***Update : decided that I would change this thread to a more useful purpose of reviewing accessories which I originally ordered. Original post is below for reference

13/2/10

Leather Case for N900 Came Today (http://cgi.ebay.com.sg/ws/eBayISAPI....=STRK:MEWNX:IT)

This case is pretty awesome! initially i was horrified because it was an extremely tight fit for the n900 into the case, no give at all. However after a couple of hours of leaving the phone in the case, the leather broke in and now it's a snug fit.

a full 24 hours later, the leather has broken in sufficiently to fit the n900 snugly. Good thing about this case is that the exact stitching dimensions of the case are very precise, so after the leather has broken in the stitching of the leather ensures that there is no extra 'give' or looseness.

Very slim fit, the black leather is extremely professional and corporate looking. Also, when in the case the n900 is protected fully. If you drop it any which way, the n900 device is totally covered no part of the actual device will be exposed.

For us$13.60 it just may be the best value for money case i've used.

**i will update the reviews as the other accessories arrive in my mailbox***

----Original Post Below----------

Hi all, i recently (1 day ago) took the plunge and got a N900 for a decent price. Spent half a day configuring it and it's stable as a rock, buttery smooth. The only drawback is I can't stop using its 3G data features and end up using a ton of battery life!

Anyway, I would like to introduce everyone, if you don't already know, to IMHO the *best* screen protector, bar none, for the N900 (and for any other mobile phone too.)

It's the Martin Fields screen protector the the N900. (www.overlayplus.com) These screen protectors are made in Japan, completely transparent with no tint, and are the glossiest and shiniest plastic thingamagigs that you can find.

My personal experience with Martin Fields go back to 2005 (note i'm not a reseller or working for martin fields). These things are literally scratchproof (i have one on my old Razr V3, the phone is shot to hell, but the protector itself is scratchless, that's a good 3+ years of wear and tear.)

literally scratchproof, they have an adhesive that is rock strong, i haven't had a device with the protector on that has seen any warps/bubbles/peeling at all. this is even with water getting splashed on the screens (that's another story for another thread.) These protectors are available locally in my country (www.doml.com.sg) and they provide a free application service, but it isn't that difficult to apply it yourself for anyone getting from Ebay.

I paid approx US$16 for 1 screen protector. Yep i know it's a million times more expensive than the 99 cent ones you can get on Ebay, but I swear by these things. If you're buying a $500 device, $16 to protect its screen seems reasonable. With perfect cutouts for the speaker grill, front camera and even the front nokia embossment, i doubt there's a better screen protector out there.

I realise this sounds like a fanboy rant, but i assure you i'm not related to MF in any way. all from my own personal experience.

Ok on to other accessories, here's what I bought so far from ebay (what i found to be the best deals (price + aesthetics wise after 2 hours of searching):

1. Cowhide leather slip case (http://cgi.ebay.com.sg/ws/eBayISAPI....=STRK:MEWNX:IT)

I didn't want a case with extra flaps hanging out when i was using it, nor did i want a hard rubber casing. I believe in using the device naked to fully experience the usability of it, hence my first choice is for a stylish slip case that offers good protection. This case seems to be better than the EASECASE seller on ebay that was going for EUR$25. mainly because i felt this was half the price, and yet retained a slim form factor. I especially like the additional leather strap for complete protection.

US$13.60, includes international delivery charges.

2. USB Charger (http://cgi.ebay.com.sg/ws/eBayISAPI....=STRK:MEWNX:IT)

I bought this charger mainly to charge my extra batteries on the go (via usb or in the car). This way you can use the N900 without worrying about battery drain and always have topped-up batteries. This spring-loaded charger charges via a normal USB cable, so just plug in *any* micro usb to USB cable to the charger, and connect the other end to a laptop/computer usb port. I would connect the USB end of the cable to a usb charger i have in the car so that i can charge on the go. It also comes with power adapter slots (US + EUR) so that you can charge straight from a power outlet.

US$9, includes international shipping charges.

3. In car charger + Vent holder for N900 (http://cgi.ebay.com.sg/ws/eBayISAPI....=STRK:MEWNX:IT)

Basically 2 items. 1 item is a car cigarette adapter that charges to micro usb, hence you can charge the N900 in-car. good for when I'm using the N900 to play music/GPS in car and want to top-up battery life.

Second item is a car-vent holder for the N900. slots into your car a/c vents to position the holder in place, you pop your n900 in it. I opted for this vent-type holder instead of the normal suction type ones because my previous suction type holder doesn't allow me to play the phone in a central location, the gooseneck isn't long enough (at least in my case). I find the vent-holders are positioned exactly where my a/c vent is, that is the most central position i find appropriate.

GBP6.49, includes shipping charges.

----------

Do note that I haven't actually received any of these items, except for my N900 device and the Martin Fields overlay which has already been applied. If the Ebay accessories turn out to be a dud, i will be back here in my admittedly long-winded stupor and rant about them again!

Nice article, I've had mine for a week eactly to the hour today, most battery issues can be thwarted by installing the wifi toggle app and the GSM selector. I can get 2 days out of mine with full use, no wifi unless i'm at home, blue tooth off and 3g only.

At the end of the day, i don't care, i've got rid of that useless N97, so i;m happy.

you wont be able to use that usb car adapter. sorry it doesnt work without mosifying it

@#$%! don't tell me i bought a dud. thanks for the heads up i'll see how it goes down when the items arrive.

Why would you think so?

I'm using a USB car adapter for Motorola V3 (not OEM, from ebay) + Motorola Mini USB to Micro USB adapter (not modified, it can be used for data cable) and it charges my N900. I bought the mini USB so I can also charge other gadgets.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll...=STRK:MEWAX:IT
So, the car adapter already has the necessary pins shorted, if that's necessary.

Also, I bougt the charging cable x2 for $3 shipped here
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll...=STRK:MEWNX:IT
I use it on USB AC adapter and it charges my N900 too.
If I use regular data cable, it wont' charge the N900. So this cable also has the magic done.

BTW, I also recommend those hard rubberized/silicone case if you don't mind adding a little thickness.
Some people might not like it, but I like adding colors to my phone rather than dull black. I now have 7 different colors
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll...=STRK:MEWAX:IT

7 silicone cases, that's hardcore protection. 1 for each day of the week! the 99 cent cables are great, i have to get them thanks for the heads up!

updated the thread with review of the leather case, i highly recommend this for its great design and value for money!

Hello All.

Anyone bought this Leather Case already? Opinions?

http://cgi.ebay.com/Premium-Leather-...item518f4e9386

Best Regards,

Germano.

Looks very similar to Nokias case and has now cutout for the status light

So i really "need" to buy one

Best Regards,

Germano.