Brando Workshop PSP Clip Case Review

By Charles Starrett - Cases and protectors come in all sizes, and the previous few weeks of announced PSP accessories prove it. With options ranging from metal to leather to silicone, the PSP buyer already has quite a few options to choose from.

The Brando Workshop PSP Clip Case falls into the category of leather cases. Made of soft black leather with white stitching, the case feels soft to the touch and is pleasing to the eye. The case opens by unlatching the sturdy magnetic metal clasp and flipping the top of the case up and away from the PSP.

The bottom inside of the case is made of soft suede with a stitched in holder for the PSP. The holder is made of clear hard plastic, and it snaps to the PSP at both top and bottom while a small plastic peg is inserted into one of the holes on the back of the PSP. This holder does its job well, and when properly inserted the PSP never feels unstable. The only minor complaint about the clasping mechanism is the amount of force required to snap the PSP in — the experience is a little unnerving at first, but you soon get used to it.

The top of the case is made to function as more than just a cover for the PSP's screen. On the underside of the top are three small pockets and two flaps designed to hold extra Memory Stick Duos. Brando's site claims that only one of the pockets are meant to carry an extra UMD, but unfortunately our experiences while carrying an extra UMD weren't quite what we'd hope for. The stress between the PSP's screen and the top of the case becomes rather great when the case is closed. This leads to serious concerns on our part. We think it's very possible your screen would be easily scratched if you carried the PSP in this case with anything in the top pockets, if it be UMD, credit card, or even Memory Stick. Because of this, we suggest putting nothing in the top of this case.

The case was designed with the intent of the user to play the PSP while secured in the case, and this is entirely possible. While cradled in the case, access to the PSP's Memory Stick slot, UMD door, and all of its ports and switches is unimpeded. As for gameplay while in the case, we found it to be above adequate — in fact, it was a downright pleasant experience.

As with any case, the Brando Clip Case adds bulk to the PSP. Whether the bulk is more than you can handle is up to you, but keep in mind that this case is way more svelte without an extra UMD in the upper pockets.

Overall, we find the Brando PSP Clip Case to be quite capable for a leather case. The level of protection it offers is similar to that of other leather cases, but unfortunately its interior pockets are best left empty if you value your shiny black gadget. At $32, this case isn't amongst the cheapest you will find for the PSP, but it's more elegant than silicone and less heavy and bulky than a metal case. Unfortunately, due to the possible damage caused by the top rubbing against an unprotected screen, we can only recommend this case if you plan on keeping a screen protector on the PSP at all times.

Pros: Soft leather, elegant look, PSP still functional while secured.
Cons: Storage pockets shouldn't be used, possible damage, slightly expensive.

PSPworld Rating: C

Comments

Bo Bo: Umm this case looks very well... FAT... i like my psp to be small and fit in my pocket and even without a case it feels like a brick in my pants.. anywayz this looks really nice unless you need your psp in your pocket or small etc... just my opinion. plz dont flame me *cries*

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