If you’re looking for a sleek, stylish-but-not-gaudy (though expensive) case for your iPhone 4S, the Vapor Pro Elite from Element Case (https://www.elementcase.com) fills the bill. However, you should note that this case isn’t for those who want to be able to attach and remove a case quickly.
The Vapor Pro Elite comes in four different models with pricing ranging from US$169.99 to $179.99. My review unit is the Black/Gold Elite for $169.99.
According to the folks at Element Case, the Vapor Elite Pro is made with “certified exotic wood, special hard plating and buttery soft leather.” The case is reinforced with new CNC grip detail, reducing weight and provides a sure grip. All cases are individually hand-grained and hand-anodized. In other words, it’s the Lamborghini of iPhone cases.
What’s more, all Element Case Vapor Pro Elite cases come with a display shield screen protector, EVA molded foam zipper case and a Vapor speed wrench. A Vapor wrench? What is that for, you ask?
Good question. The Vapor Pro Elite is held in place with four screws (they tighten, but don’t prortrube into your phone).. You’ll have to loosen some of the screws to insert or remove your iPhone. That makes for a very protective, snug case with top and bottom openings with easy access to all ports. But it also means if you like to attach camera accessories and other peripherals to your Apple smartphone, you should either have lots of patience and time or else pass on this case.
As always with me, the screen protector gave me fits. Despite the included “squeegee,” I couldn’t apply it without some annoying air bubbles popping up. Of course, this has been the case with every iPhone screen protector I’ve ever tried (which is why I don’t use one).
If you can afford the Vapor Pro Elite and want a “permanent” iPhone case that oozes sophistication and class, you’ll be enamored. If you need a case that slips on and off easily, however, keep looking.
Rating: 8 out of 10
— Dennis Sellers