Everyone is used to having a case for your phone, but what about a case for your earbuds? Nomad has produced a beautiful leather Rugged Case for your Google Pixel Buds in both brown and black. Not only does it protect your Pixel Buds case, but it is a premium feeling and looking product that will up your style points every time you take them out of your pocket.
To me, the primary purpose of a case is protection first and style second. This is a subjective thing because I know many people who prefer form over function. Luckily, the Nomad Rugged Case does a fantastic job of combining both the protection while also incorporating premium materials and styling.
They fit the Pixel Buds so well that I don’t think Google themselves could have done a better job. It’s clear that Nomad took a lot of time to make sure the fit was perfect, and one minor downside is that removing the Pixel Buds from the case can be tricky, but again, that’s a small thing that also shows what a secure fit it is.
The Horween leather feels great in your hands, and the black strip around the side is a hard material that provides a rigid structure to the case. There is an opening in the bottom for the USB-C plug, and around the back, there is a handy indented button for the Pixel Bud’s case pairing button. The case comes in two pieces, the bottom part and a cover for the top lid. Due to the design of the Pixel Buds’ case, when you look at the back of the Nomad Rugged Case, there is a small gap for the hinge, but it’s all very tastefully done.
Nomad makes special attention to the fact they use a light pipe for the LED light on the front of the Pixel Case. I can say that even when the Nomad Rugged Case is installed, the brightness of the LED light is still very visible and the same as when it’s not the case, which is excellent. The Nomad Rugged Case also works perfectly fine with wireless charging, so you don’t have to worry about removing the case to use a wireless charger.
One very minor thing I should point out is that because the Nomad Rugged Case uses leather, it is going to pick up scratches and the like. I wouldn’t recommend putting this case in your pocket when you are also carrying keys or something sharp. I don’t mind the scratches because I think it gives the case a unique look, and I just like the resulting patina or even, in this case, the war wounds of being in my pocket. However, if you would prefer your case to remain pristine (or as close to it as possible), you might want to avoid putting it in the same pocket as any sharp objects.
The Nomad Rugged Case for Pixel Buds sells for $34.95; it is available directly from the manufacturer.
Source: Manufacturer supplied review sample
What I Like: Beautiful Horween leather and excellent design; Fits Pixel Bud’s case perfectly; Doesn’t obstruct any ports or reduce the brightness of lights; Nice indent for pairing button
What Needs Improvement: Can pick up scratches from sharp objects so avoid pockets with keys