Amazon.com: Customer reviews: Lifeproof FRĒ SERIES Waterproof Case for Samsung Galaxy S8 (ONLY) - Retail Packaging

Top positive review

Does not click against screen; very satisfied; works with S8 & S8+

Reviewed in the United States on December 13, 2017

I recently bought the Galaxy S8 and did TONS of research on what kind of protective case to get for it. I had this case in mind but after reading a lot of negative reviews I furthered my research to some other options like the Otterbox Commuter and Defender cases. I personally did not want to have to worry about buying a screen protector in addition to the case itself - let alone applying it properly. I liked the idea that this case had the screen protector built in but many reviews claimed that it was annoying because it clicked against the screen when touched. I feared that it would be irritating to deal with. So after a lot of research and deciding against other cases I just decided to order this case. When I got it in the mail and put my phone in it I was not disappointed. It is sleek, provides a lot of protection for my phone, and the screen protector fits right up against the screen. I have had it for about a week now and it still does not disappoint. I can't even imagine the screen protector not being snug against the screen as I read in the reviews. I have a friend with the Galaxy S8+ and he has the same case on it and it does not click and he loves it. Overall, I would highly recommend this case.

30 people found this helpful

Top critical review

Critical reviews›

Unbiased

Wasn't waterproof and gimps some features

Reviewed in the United States on August 15, 2017

Updated my review, as the case leaked rather soon after installing it.

- Appeared to be watertight at first, as there was no water infiltration after washing with soap and water in a sink. However, the first time I took a shower with the phone in the case (set it on a shelf against the wall, there wasn't water spraying on it constantly and it wasn't submerged), it leaked a lot. This is very disappointing as the Lifeproof S7 case usually did not leak in this situation, and the Ghostek Nautical case for the S8 I am now using hasn't leaked yet either. Given the main reason most people will choose this case over any other is its claim to be waterproof, this is extremely disappointing.
- Lifeproof's replacement policy charges an additional "handling" fee. This is for a product that was defective out of the package! Disappointing, considering the high cost.

+ Thin overall. Feels thinner than the Lifeproof S7 caseLifeProof FRE SERIES Waterproof Case for Samsung Galaxy S7 (Not for S7 Edge) - Retail Packaging - CRUSHED (PURPLE PADDLE/SKY FLY BLUE), and much thinner than the Ghostek NauticalGalaxy S8 Waterproof Case, Ghostek Nautical Series for Samsung Galaxy S8 | Slim Underwater Full Body Protection Shockproof Dirtproof Snow-proof Dust-Proof Protective Adventure Swimming Diving (Black).
+ Charging port latch seems snugger than on the Lifeproof S7 case. This seemed to the be the source of most leaks on that case.
+ Iris recognition works even with case on.

- Wireless charging works but because the phone won't charge when it reaches 40°C, charging reaches a certain level then stalls for a long time. Extra insulation from the case contributes to this.
- Fingerprint sensor does not recognize a fingerprint trained before installation and is unable to learn a fingerprint after. Fingerprint sensor scrolling function still works, but that's hardly a consolation.
- Edges of the screen are difficult to activate.
- While the sides fit perfectly, better than on the Lifeproof S7 case, there is a paper-thin gap at the top and bottom where the front and back halves meet. The back half has a permanent bend to it that seems to be the cause of this. By contrast, the Nautical seems to fit snugly all around.

~ The openings for the charging port, audio jack, lanyard cord, and fingerprint sensor (since it doesn't work anyway) all seem like liabilities, potential points of failure when it comes to leaks. Would prefer a simpler case without all that in a sleeker design with a snugger seal all around.

4 people found this helpful

2,606 total ratings, 1,010 with reviews

There was a problem filtering reviews right now. Please try again later.

From the United States

Dan B.

Does not click against screen; very satisfied; works with S8 & S8+

Reviewed in the United States on December 13, 2017

Color: ASPHALT (BLACK/DARK GREY)Verified Purchase

30 people found this helpful

Helpful

ds5150

100% functionality and durability except volume buttons

Reviewed in the United States on June 25, 2019

Color: ASPHALT (BLACK/DARK GREY)Verified Purchase

Not to thrilled with the failing of the volume buttons on three of the higher priced fancy colored cases. Waited a few months for the S8 lifeproof to be released only to have both fail within a year and the other replacement now has no volume control again. The S5 cases are still in perfect condition after 30 months in the field and 18 months with the grandkids! Zero cracked screens in 4 years. Zero water, snow, or dirt inside even my work crawling around under houses with my phone in the side pocket of my Carhartt jeans, I somehow rolled over a rock or concrete, dented the screen protector pretty seriously but no damage to the phone (volume buttons were already failing) so I purchased this one. I will buy again if needed. I do hope that Lifeproof corrects the issue before we move to the next phones.

Helpful

Emily B

I LOVE Lifeproof and they are always worth the money

Reviewed in the United States on April 14, 2018

Color: ASPHALT (BLACK/DARK GREY)Verified Purchase

I LOVE Lifeproof and they are always worth the money. I have had the most issues with this phone type (Samsung Galaxy S8). The first didn't pass the waterproof test so I got a replacement for free. Because of the screen being curved it creates a small gap between the screen and screen protector front. This is usually not an issue but over time separated more and now I can't use my volume down button. I'm getting a free replacement (just payed shipping) and hopefully this one is better and passes the water test. I still love these cases and will probably always get them. They are the best and most practical out there, especially for me, as I drop my phone several times daily.

One person found this helpful

Helpful

Eliana

Only waterproof phone option: pros/cons

Reviewed in the United States on December 19, 2018

Color: ASPHALT (BLACK/DARK GREY)Verified Purchase

This case fits the S8 very well, looks sleek and is the least bulky, but also completely waterproof case I've had on a phone.

I explore different environments often (snow to beaches) and I am always outside, so I wanted a case that would protect my phone as much as possible. Currently, I am a kayak guide, so the need for a waterproof case was why I ultimately chose this case over my other options (Otterbox Defender and Pelican Voyager).

From what I read the other cases just mentioned had better protection from drops and bumps. However, the Otterbox case has no built in screen and the Alpha Glass (a tempered glass screen protector that can bought separately) generally has poor reviews because of fitting and loss of sensitivity issues. The Otterbox does have sealed charging ports and head phone jacks.

The Pelican Voyager case does seem to fit many tempered glass options, including the pelican brand glass. It also comes with a plastic screen protector that is put on the screen before the pelican case. That would help prevent scratches. But this case is open to dust and water getting into the exposed ports. If I wasn't working on the water, this would have been my choice.

The Lifeproof case has been a reasonable option. I've had the case for about 2 weeks now. I can use all features of the phone when the case is put on correctly. The buttons are very low profile and need very specific placing to work. The first time I put on my case the volume buttons only went up, the down was unresponsive. I took the case off and on again and the buttons worked fine. During install, definitely put the front of the case face down, then your phone face down. I get best results when I cautiously, but firmly press the phone in that front half of the case on a table, then connect the back half of the phone on top of the already-secured front/phone combo.

The keyboard and tapping functions can be weak to respond as well with this case. Using Instagram for example, I would always double-tap a photo I liked (when using my old Galaxy Halo with a tempered glass screen protector). Now tapping works maybe 80% of the time, otherwise I have started pressing the heart in the corner of photos to like and Instagram post. This has been the most disappointing and irritating part of the case, in addition to the keypad buttons near the middle of the screen also needing special touch techniques.

These seem to stem from the same problem- the built-in lifeproof plastic screen protector gets farther from the actual phone. To manage this, I set my photo (still in the case), face down on a table and gently but firmly press down around the edges and then middle, so the phone is as close to the plastic as possible. This usually fixes issues. My screen protector got its first small scratch, so watch your keys. I can't see the scratch when using the phone though.

Other than this, the phone is very responsive in all other places all the time (it's just that center middle that seems to get weird). The side swipe function special to S8 works great- so much that I pull it over accidentally at times.

Camera quality is great. Just be sure to wipe off the lens in case there is dirt or anything. You could literally use soap and water and clean the case if you wanted.

Sound quality is good. It seems like everyone can hear me fine. I do have the volume up all the way for most calls, but that may be the S8 itself, not the case, because I have had to do that without the case on too.

Overall, I really like the peace-of-mind that comes with having this case while I paddle, fish and swim. It seems decently protective to drops, but I would still avoid face-down drops (this phone has less "clearance" than the Otterboxor Pelican). I wish the sensitivity was more consistent, but there is a way to fix it when it gets weird.

Pros:
-Waterproof (most cases are not)
-Screen protection against scratches
-Dust-proof
-Full use of functions when installed correctly
-Shock-proof
-Slim case

Cons:
-Case must be installed and maintained for full use
-Screen protector can lose contact with phone leading to less sensitivity

Helpful

Cayla C

Lifeproof cases are best

Reviewed in the United States on December 1, 2020

Color: ASPHALT (BLACK/DARK GREY)Verified Purchase

Cons: I can never get the fingerprint scanner to work in this case. However, I can still use iris scan or passcode to unlock, so I dont mind. Also, i tend to lose the headphone Jack adapter - to keep the case waterproof the headphone jack is threaded. But most people just use bluetooth headphones anyway.

Pros: I love that its water proof, especially with a toddler who likes to run away with my phone. This is my 3rd case, they replaced my first when it cracked after many many drops and throws by my kid. I wanted a new color and immediately wanted another life proof case. Its the best phone case I've ever had.
I love their customer service and warranty.

Helpful

Julio

Best phone case, hands down

Reviewed in the United States on November 11, 2019

Color: ASPHALT (BLACK/DARK GREY)Verified Purchase

Tried many different brands of cases, but this one is hands down one of the best cases for my S8. It's all around protection is what other phone cases lack, especially around the phone jack and power port. Camera and finger reader and easily accessible. And comes with a built in screen protector. The only downside are the side buttons, over time they will wear out. This will make the phone hard to function and would be time to buy a new one.

Helpful

BillyC

Dont believe those negative reviews, actually works perfectly

Reviewed in the United States on September 25, 2019

Color: ASPHALT (BLACK/DARK GREY)Verified Purchase

It has no problem with the fingerprint sensor, actually the thinnest part of the case, and actually makes the speakerphone volume seems like it's coming from there now. And no issue with the speakerphone AND the regular ear speaker too! The buttons worked perfect without the need to press harder as the other reviews claimed. Overall it's almost perfect, fit and high quality. If I have to pick bone from an egg, the side edge of the screen is less sensitive now probably due to a fine gap between the screen and case, and I still kept my film protector on within the case, so maybe my issue, but the top and bottom edges swipe works perfectly! That's why I suspect the other negative reviews are fake.

Helpful

Unbiased

Wasn't waterproof and gimps some features

Reviewed in the United States on August 15, 2017

Color: TWILIGHTS EDGE (GRAPE RIOT/PLUM HAZE/LIGHT TEAL BLUE)Verified Purchase

Updated my review, as the case leaked rather soon after installing it.

- Appeared to be watertight at first, as there was no water infiltration after washing with soap and water in a sink. However, the first time I took a shower with the phone in the case (set it on a shelf against the wall, there wasn't water spraying on it constantly and it wasn't submerged), it leaked a lot. This is very disappointing as the Lifeproof S7 case usually did not leak in this situation, and the Ghostek Nautical case for the S8 I am now using hasn't leaked yet either. Given the main reason most people will choose this case over any other is its claim to be waterproof, this is extremely disappointing.
- Lifeproof's replacement policy charges an additional "handling" fee. This is for a product that was defective out of the package! Disappointing, considering the high cost.

+ Thin overall. Feels thinner than the Lifeproof S7 case LifeProof FRE SERIES Waterproof Case for Samsung Galaxy S7 (Not for S7 Edge) - Retail Packaging - CRUSHED (PURPLE PADDLE/SKY FLY BLUE) , and much thinner than the Ghostek Nautical Galaxy S8 Waterproof Case, Ghostek Nautical Series for Samsung Galaxy S8 | Slim Underwater Full Body Protection Shockproof Dirtproof Snow-proof Dust-Proof Protective Adventure Swimming Diving (Black) .
+ Charging port latch seems snugger than on the Lifeproof S7 case. This seemed to the be the source of most leaks on that case.
+ Iris recognition works even with case on.

- Wireless charging works but because the phone won't charge when it reaches 40°C, charging reaches a certain level then stalls for a long time. Extra insulation from the case contributes to this.
- Fingerprint sensor does not recognize a fingerprint trained before installation and is unable to learn a fingerprint after. Fingerprint sensor scrolling function still works, but that's hardly a consolation.
- Edges of the screen are difficult to activate.
- While the sides fit perfectly, better than on the Lifeproof S7 case, there is a paper-thin gap at the top and bottom where the front and back halves meet. The back half has a permanent bend to it that seems to be the cause of this. By contrast, the Nautical seems to fit snugly all around.

~ The openings for the charging port, audio jack, lanyard cord, and fingerprint sensor (since it doesn't work anyway) all seem like liabilities, potential points of failure when it comes to leaks. Would prefer a simpler case without all that in a sleeker design with a snugger seal all around.

4 people found this helpful

Helpful

Orbow

A good case

Reviewed in the United States on January 18, 2018

Verified Purchase

Good case, happy I bought it, from a long time Otter-box purchaser.

Having a difficult time finding a cell phone case with a built-in screen protector for my S8, and after many trial and errors of cases with the separately applied screen, I’m pleased I bought this one.

Pros:
- Low profile case:
o It passed the 30-minute water test provided the instructions, and dropping my phone accidentally (around 4 feet) already, it has provided my phone protection without being too clunky.
- Built-in Screen protector works like a charm, it is slightly raised up, around .01 mm (Pulling that number out of thin air). It has not hampered my ability to use the touchscreen, nor my ability to type. I’ve gone through 3 different cell phone cases with 3 different screen protectors all met with varying degrees of failure.
- Call quality is crystal clear, I’ve had no issues with 2 way audio for sending/receiving calls.

Mixed:
- Button/Finger sensitivity: Granted not an issue for me, but I can see how this can be an issue for some: You have to press around twice as hard to enable to the lock, volume, fingerprint scanner, and Bixby buttons. Granted if anything this has saved me from accidentally enabling the Bixby button.

Cons:
- (If you often use the audio cable on the cell phone): Unscrewing and recrewing the audio port for the case gets annoying, especially having to use the adapter to connect to it. However, if you often use blue tooth speakers/headphones (like me), then it shouldn’t be a significant issue.
- If you use your cell phones speakers to listen to music, you’ll find some of the audio’s bass is lost, you can feel the vibrations on the back of the cell phones case around the life proof logo. It is not entirely muffled, you can hear the music just fine, the music will just not have as much bass. Granted, if you often use blue tooth speakers (like me), this is a none issue.
- Edge Sensitivity: I’ve noticed on the curved/edge of the screen the touch screen is not as responsive, you have to be more deliberate in pressing down on that area than usual.

In closing, this is a good case, not great nor perfect but a good cell phone case that achieves what I’m looking for in. I am happy to have bought it and plan to use is as long as possible. At least now I have a backup brand to use the next time Otter-box isn’t offering what I’m looking for.

2 people found this helpful

Helpful

Tiffany Ketchel

Great case, but volume button inevitably gets stuck- read multiple reviews

Reviewed in the United States on January 28, 2019

Verified Purchase

Pros: Full phone coverage, phone looks like new, screen/drop/water protection
Cons: Volume button stuck after 6 mo. use, have to press screen slightly harder to make contact

After much debate in shopping for an S8 cover with a screen protector, I ended up taking a shot and ordering this case and the Ghostek Nautical. Both arrived, I checked them out and decided on the Lifeproof, sending the other one back. I'm not particularly hard on my phones, but when I do inevitably drop it, I don't want to take any chances. Yes, the screen cover sits up off the glass slightly, meaning you have to push a bit harder to make contact with your screen, but I actually like this (most of the time) because it's a very minor effort. One-handed texting is a bit harder, but I have really small hands to begin. I've used this case now for six months, with no complaints. Until last week. My volume button on the case started failing. I take a lot of screenshots, so this really irritates me. The odd thing is that I can still use the volume up/down buttons, and the power button with no issue- it is only when I try to use the power & volume down button to take a screenshot that it gets stuck. I learned that you can also take a screenshot using the side of your palm on the S8, so I think I will keep this case until the volume button stops working completely. My phone looks like new, despite multiple drops, so it appears to be (mostly) doing its job.

One person found this helpful

Helpful

Questions? Get fast answers from reviewers

Need customer service?

‹ See all details for Lifeproof FRĒ SERIES Waterproof Case for Samsung Galaxy S8 (ONLY) -...

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Lifeproof FRĒ SERIES Waterproof Case for Samsung Galaxy S8 (ONLY) -...

›

Customer reviews

Customer reviews

Lifeproof FRĒ SERIES Waterproof Case for Samsung Galaxy S8 (ONLY) - Retail Packaging - ASPHALT (BLACK/DARK GREY)

Top positive review

Top critical review

There was a problem filtering reviews right now. Please try again later.

From the United States

There was a problem loading comments right now. Please try again later.

There was a problem loading comments right now. Please try again later.

There was a problem loading comments right now. Please try again later.

There was a problem loading comments right now. Please try again later.

There was a problem loading comments right now. Please try again later.

There was a problem loading comments right now. Please try again later.

There was a problem loading comments right now. Please try again later.

There was a problem loading comments right now. Please try again later.

There was a problem loading comments right now. Please try again later.

There was a problem loading comments right now. Please try again later.

Questions? Get fast answers from reviewers

Lifeproof FRĒ SERIES Waterproof Case for Samsung Galaxy S8 (ONLY) -... › Customer reviews

Customer reviews

Lifeproof FRĒ SERIES Waterproof Case for Samsung Galaxy S8 (ONLY) - Retail Packaging - ASPHALT (BLACK/DARK GREY)

Top positive review

Top critical review

There was a problem filtering reviews right now. Please try again later.

From the United States

There was a problem loading comments right now. Please try again later.

There was a problem loading comments right now. Please try again later.

There was a problem loading comments right now. Please try again later.

There was a problem loading comments right now. Please try again later.

There was a problem loading comments right now. Please try again later.

There was a problem loading comments right now. Please try again later.

There was a problem loading comments right now. Please try again later.

There was a problem loading comments right now. Please try again later.

There was a problem loading comments right now. Please try again later.

There was a problem loading comments right now. Please try again later.

Questions? Get fast answers from reviewers

Lifeproof FRĒ SERIES Waterproof Case for Samsung Galaxy S8 (ONLY) -...

›

Customer reviews