Incipio [Performance] Series Level 5 Dual Layered Drop Protection For iPhone 6/6S

We’ve looked at most of the cases in the Incipio [Performance] Series line of iPhone 6 cases. Now it’s time for the most substantial and protective case in the line. The Incipio [Performance] Series Level 5 Dual Layered Drop Protection For iPhone 6S is $49.99 and is serious about protection. It ships with a holster and includes screen protection.

To review, each case in this series of five different levels of protection offers something a little bit different. The Level 1 case is the lightest and simplest of the bunch. It is also the least expensive. From there it goes to the Level 2 case which is a little more protective, the Level 3 case, and then the Level 4 case. The Level 4 case, obviously, being a bit thicker and more protective than the first three. With the Level 5 protection case, the company offers something that will maximize the protection you seek for your precious pocket computer without adding a tremendous amount of bulk. As is the case with everything across this line, the cases aren’t boxy and don’t make you feel like you are putting your phone into an external brick. The Level 5 case, however, adds a few elements missing from the earlier offerings.

Incipio explains:

Delivering 360-degree defense, the [Performance] Series Level 5 case protects iPhone 6/6s with military grade strength. Shock is diffused at the moment of impact by way of the integrated impact ridge, while the outer shell offers superior durability and scratch resistance. Keeping out dirt and dust, the anti-glare screen protector also guards the device against scratched glass and cracks. Complete with holster, the [Performance] Series Level 5 case is the powerhouse of drop protection.

This is obviously the thickest and most protective of the cases. That noted, it still isn’t all that bulky. On the back is the familiar design that is consistent throughout the line. It has the company name toward the bottom and a raised edge running around the perimeter of the backplate. This adds to the protective nature of the case. The opening for the camera, microphone, and flash are large enough to accommodate the needs of said features without being overly large.

Once again the buttons are covered but clearly indicated. There’s little to no loss of functionality when trying to use them. The ridge that is also common to the rest of series is filled in with a second material that has a slightly different color. As a result, it is rather attractive. It isn’t there simply for aesthetic purposes and adds to the drop protection offered by the case.

The bottom of the case sees as much protection offered as possible without losing functionality. The speaker is exposed through holes in the case but remains covered. The 3.5 mm headphone port has a cover over it. The microphone remains open even with the cover in place, but to use the 3.5mm headphone jack you’ll need to get a fingernail under the extra material and pull it open. The lightning connector port is similarly covered by a tab that requires opening in order to access it. It does add a bit of inconvenience to charging your phone but the added protection is well worth it.

Finally, the company sees fit to include a belt holster with the case. It has a clip that ratchets 360° so you can position your phone in the best way possible. The phone can go into the holster face out or in. It’s your choice.

Where this case differs the most is in the inclusion of a screen protector. It’s a solid sheet with a dark frame that fits into the body of the case. What surprised me the most about it was that although it sits on top of the phone’s screen you don’t seem to lose much for any of the touch sensitivity that is part of the iPhone’s appeal. It is worth noting that without the screen protector in place the upper edge of the case surrounding the screen is a bit on the sharp side. It doesn’t require you to always use the screen protection but it will be more noticeable that the case rises up and above the screen than you will find on the other cases in the series.

Here’s our video review of the Incipio [Performance] Series Level 5 Dual Layered Drop Protection For iPhone 6/6S:

In all, this is an intriguing case from the perspective of looking for something that offers maximum but light protection. It isn’t waterproof but it does provide a tremendous amount of protection without adding too much weight or bulk. If you use your phone in places where it is prone to damage or you simply tend to drop your phone a lot this is definitely a case worthy of your consideration.

Get it here for $43. [Affiliate link.]

Source: Manufacturer supplied review sample

What I Like: Serious protection without serious bulk; Includes screen protection; Comes with belt holster; Bottom ports covered and protected from dust.

What Needs Improvement: Not waterproof