Miyavix PDAir PSP Leather Case Review

As the new market of PSP accessories expands, it seems it only gets harder to find that perfect mix of style and practicality in a case. Although not the most protective case we've reviewed, the PDAir PSP Leather Case might just be the best mix we've seen yet.

Visually, the PDair case resembles the Brando PSP Clip Case. In fact, the black leather and white stitching look almost identical at first glance, and they both stay closed thanks to a magnetic metal clasp. Those are pretty much the only similarities between the two however. The PDAir features a different way of securing the PSP and a different storage design, the main two gripes with Brando's Clip Case.

The PDAir case is secured to the PSP with two screws that go into the top of the PSP. This causes the PSP to have a little bit of "wobble room," but really doesn't affect the case's performance. The sides and bottom of the PSP remain completely accessible while the PSP is in the case, allowing for maxium usability but sacrificing quite a bit of protection. This is an obvious limitation of this style of case, and is a trait shared with Brando's leather offering. We believe it will be of little consequence to the targeted buyer, since they will more than likely be carrying this case in a separate pocket to keep the leather from being cut.

Storage for a single UMD and two memory sticks is provided, thankfully in a more well-designed way than in the Clip Case. A leather slot on the top of the case holds an extra UMD, while up to two extra Memory Sticks can be stored underneath the PSP on the inside of the bottom of the case. Neither of these storage implementations pose any real threat of scratching or damage to the PSP, although it will be possible for the top of a stored UMD to be scratched if carried in a pocket or bag containing other items.

Playing the PSP while in the PDAir case is quite comfortable. Since the top doesn't have a stiff hinge, it will often be neccessary to fold the top underneath the PSP, but it doesn't add so much bulk to the bottom as to be an issue. It is slightly difficult to access the UMD door while the case is attached, but not impossible — so it is wise to be careful when changing games.

Overall, the PDAir case is a true standout in it's category. It protection issues are the only thing keeping it from acheiving an "A" rating, but not enough to knock it down to a "B". If you are looking for the most protection you can get, this is not the case for you. This case is for the PSP owner who wants protection for their screen, moderate drop protection, and a little extra storage, all while having styling that any PSP would be proud of. If this describes you, we definitely recommend this case.