Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

When I originally purchased my SP4 there were very few cases available. I knew that I wanted solid protection and the use of the SP4 stand. If I were really lucky, I would find one with some sort of handle. The best case I could find that met most of my needs was the UAG (had to buy direct at the time) which turned out to be a really good case. The UAG is very well built, offers very solid protection and looks really cool. This is one of those cases that you put on and are instantly confident it’ll do its job. What I didn't like was the fact that I was forced to use the built in UAG stand. As you know the SP4’s stand is quite awesome so it's a shame not being able to use it. That said, the UAG stand is not bad at all it just doesn't compare. It's smaller, has far less angle options and has that loud hard click that sounds like it's breaking upon adjustment. And lastly no handle, this case is quite hard to hold one handed while using the pen or finger. I use the SP4 in tablet “notepad” form as much as I do laptop mode. Standing while note taking with the pen just isn't happening with the UAG sadly. Other than that, this is a solid case that offers superior protection. With that it seemed like a dream come true when I came across the Kensington Black Belt 2nd degree. Looks to be good protection, allows use of the SP4 stand and, it had a handle! Needless to say I ordered it and received it two days later. Upon initial inspection I have to say I wasn't as impressed with the build quality as I was with the UAG. This seemed to use a slightly lesser quality though similar material. The lack of protection around the bottom was also of concern. Don't get me wrong the quality is great but the UAG is really built quite well. After slipping my SP4 into its new outfit I noticed it fit well and felt good. Now again, I didn't have that immediate confidence in protection capability that I had with the UAG. Though it was close with the Black Belt. The main concern again was and is the bottom portion, try not to drop it on that end. The keyboard cover snapped into place and fit very well in all positions. This actually allows you to fold the cover back for tablet use. Technically you can with the UAG also though just barely, it's not worth doing however as it doesn't work very well. I also prefer the silicone strap that the Black Belt used to secure the keyboard over the UAG offering. No real reason, just personal preference they both work fine. The USB port with the Black Belt is in fact obstructed by the case but there is a simple solution. Amazon sells short 4 and 6 inch USB extension cords that you can easily throw in your pack. I know, one more thing to carry but how often do you use the USB port? In my opinion, the pros still out weigh the cons. I just wish I could have told the one reviewer this before he ruined the case trying to widen the opening, don't do that. The port is not obstructed at all with the UAG. So the pen holder seems to be the chief complaint with the Black Belt for two reasons, and I can see why. First it's really tight making it hard to place the pen with one hand. However, after experimenting I found that while inserting the pen if you push against the screen side wing of the holder with the pen it'll pop in nicely. Taking it out is not much trouble. The second complaint about the pen holder is that with the pen in it blocks the cut out for extending the stand. It does, however I believe Kensington’s intent is to place the pen high in the holder so that just the tip extends past the bottom of the holder. If you do this, it's really not an issue (photo attached to Kensington review). The UAG has a great pen holder, no complaints. Another minor gripe about the Black Belt is the silicone material on the back portion that they used for the handle and surrounding area. The material quality is good but it’s a lint and dust magnet. I’m kind of a neat freak and this is a bit annoying. But if you carry electronics wipes in your pack as I do, not a deal breaker. This is a non-issue with the UAG. The next thing to mention is the overall look, the UAG takes the prize here. It's a really cool looking case and because of that it was hard to switch. The Black Belt is fine looking but it's just a case and doesn't have that cool sci-fi movie thing going for it. The UAG is significantly heavier than the Black Belt which is something to consider especially if being handheld. What would have made the Black Belt almost perfect in my opinion is a cover for the kickstand. Not a huge fan of the open air thing it's got going on. Some lesser cases have attached a cover on the stand that still allows its use but offers added protection. Like another reviewer, I added the Skinomi brushed aluminum skin on the back of my SP4. It looks good and offers at least mild protection from scratches and wear. The benefit to this however is heat distribution, it seems cooling is greatly improved with the stand area left open and the built in stand being used. Both cases work just fine with a glass screen protector. I have tried three brands of those and personally like the iCarez True Glass for ease of application and the fact that it doesn’t cover the camera and microphone like some of the others. The rubber band/sticker installation method is a life saver. So, for me the winner is the Kensington Black Belt due to the handle (which is awesome) and use of the original stand. For me this case is a must have. If you love the SP4 stand I'd go with this. If you use the SP4 in tablet/notepad form as much or more than laptop mode, I'd go with this. Consider this the full function case for the SP4. Full use and you'll still have a quality case with good protection. Now if the stand isn't a big deal and you use the SP4 mostly as a laptop then I'd select the UAG. If you are concerned primarily with protection over all else, go UAG. Looks, UAG. Hope this helps some of you with your decision, best of luck!