OtterBox, based in Fort Collins, Colorado, makes sharp looking cases that provide rugged protection for a wide array of devices including iPhones (all models), Android devices, eBooks and tablets.

When I recently bought a T-Mobile G2 device (also called the Desire Z outside of the United States), I wanted to protect the device and after searching through the available case options, the OtterBox Commuter was a stand out option.

First off, the Commuter case is matte black, meaning it is nice enough to show off to friends, but also has a professional look that you can go to the office with.

OtterBox’s Commuter case comes in three parts: a screen protector to help from scratches and nicks and plastic attachments, one that snaps on to the top and one on the bottom of the phone.

As you can see in the picture, the Commuter is perfectly formed to the G2’s streamlined body. The snaps face inward so they effectively attach to the device but don’t get in the way.

There are pop out ports for the headphones, power adapter and a nice built-in button that allows you to operate the camera with ease. On the bottom there’s a hole cut out for the microphone and on the back the camera is revealed for taking photos with the G2’s great camera.

The case is nice and smooth and attaches solidly to the phone. OtterBox’s commuter only ads a few millimeters onto each side of the G2, making the phone, with case attached – easy to fit into a small bag or your pocket.

To test the ruggedness of the Commuter case, I employed a few drop tests: one from 2 feet and a second one from 4 feet to simulate falling off a table. The G2 received no marks whatsoever. The phone did pop open (to the typing position) but that is fully expected – the case did it’s job and protected the G2 well.

For a list price of $35, the OtterBox Commuter case is a great option for those wanting to add a good looking case that provides solid protection against the dings, scratches and nicks your phone is subjected to in everyday life.