Zune Leather Case 80 GB Reviews

• Good quality case

  
  By A2EMW7P2UK4K1S on 2007-11-21
  I purchased this case the day after I got my 80G Zune from circuit city on launch day. They were selling this case for $29.99 on sale. Great deal that couldn't be beat.
  The case's overall quality is great. Very sturdy and looks great.
  It has a great magnetic latch to keep the cover closed, no clip or strap to fight with. Just close the cover and stays closed.
  If you wrap the headphones just right, the zune headphones will even stick to the outside of the case due to their magnets. I found this pretty handy.
  I would have to say the only reason this case did not get five stars, would be the fact that, in order to charge your zune or use it in a dock. You have to take your zune out of the case completely. There is no access hole in the bottom for the charging port on the player.
  It would also have been nice to have the option fo some kind of belt clip, though not a big deciding factor for me.
  I would definately recommend this case though, if you have been able to purchase the new 80G model. I can say the new zune is one great player, with a lot of potential. Once more accesories become available for the Zunes, apple better watch out. Zune is a much sturdier option to the I-pod.
  
  

• Good protection, but overpriced and poorly executed in its details

  
  By A3OEWQXYMIXYVI on 2007-12-23
  Decently constructed, the official Zune 80GB case falls flat with its execution of the details. The most obvious flaw is the lack of a cutout for the data transfer/charging cable. But equally galling is the tight opening cut for the headphone jack. If a Zune 80 user decides to stick with the stock earbuds, there's really no problem with connectivity. But if you're like me and enjoy using any number of third-party headphones, the cutout in this case basically stinks since it doesn't provide enough clearance for quite a few of my earphone sets.
  
  My primary listening set is Shure's excellent E500PTH, which I started using on my iPods and my Zune 30. The cutout in this case is barely big enough for the Shure's miniplug to get any sort of usable contact with the Zune's headphone jack. But that good contact ONLY works if I and my Zune 80 are stationary and not moving about; as soon as the cabling moves a bit whenever I move, the right channel will invariably cut away. Sometimes there enough a break in the connection to cause the Zune to go into pause mode, which is REALLY an irritation since the manner I usually use an MP3 device is to start my player then put the controls on lockout mode. Moreover, I dislike the lack of screen protection. I know that the Zune has a glass overlay on the LCD screen, which is generally superior to using most types of polymer-type plastics, but glass can still scratch and most certainly it's a fingerprint magnet that could've been controlled had there been a clear shield sewn into the case.
  
  The other issue I have with this case is value. The built quality of the case and the materials used is pretty good, however it's really not any better than the typical third-party leather cases for iPods (or Zune 30s) costing half its $50 price (or even cheaper). At the time of this review, there aren't all that many dedicated case options available for a Zune 80 owner. But if you can see fit to wait, there should be plenty of alternative cases available after the holidays when case manufacturers will finally have had a chance to catch up and get better executed designs to market. Considering that this new Zune appears to be a popular selling device (I certainly have been impressed with mine, much more that I've been with the current lineup from Apple), I have no doubt that all the usual third-party accessory makers will be lining up to provide their latest protection offerings for this excellent MP3 player.
  
  

• A Very Sleek, Stylish Case. Worth $50?

  
  By A388ZDFVK72VCA on 2008-01-03
  To get it out of the way quickly, is it worth $50? No. I paid $40 for mine at a local store, and I don't regret it, but even that is a little pricey for me.
  
  But for that $50 your are doubtlessly getting the best looking, sexiest, case for the 80gb Zune. The outside is made entirely of a dark brown leather, emblazened with a small Zune logo on the front right corner. Upon opening the case, you'll be greeted with the same pattern as the default Zune wallpaper. It's a small touch that reall brings things together nicely, I think. There is also a small pocket where you can slip in a credit card, or better yet, your gym membership card (totally helpful) that is trimmed with a bright neon pink. The color isn't for everyone and I've gotten some stares from friends and family, but it definitely looks cery cool.
  
  The Zune fits very snuggly in it's provided pocket, and the headphone jack and lock button are exposed for your convenience. In fact, almost all of the Zune's functions are available to you while it's in the case. The only thing left off it a hole for the Sync cable. This means that you won't be able to charge it while it's in its case. It is, perhaps, a minor oversight, but it's not such and inconvenience to me as I mostly have the case so that the screen doesn't get scratched in my pocket. The whole front cover stays shut via a magnet that is hidden under the lining material, that way your case will never flap open and expose your Zune to any harmful materials.
  
  Again, the whole case is extremely simple, modern, and well designed. You are really going to be paying for style with this purchase. If you don't mind your case looking a little less stylish, than I'd recommend something a little less pricey. But if you're like me and you want to protect your Zune and look good doing it, I highly recommend that you consider this case. I am not disappointed with my purchase at all, despite it being a little pricey.
  
  EDIT: Glad to see they lowered the price on this thing. At around $20, there really isn't a better option out there!
  
  

• Quality with quirks

  
  By A3KAEWHGDCWZEN on 2008-03-12
  I received this case as a freebie that came with my awesome Zune 80. I can't say I would have paid the $50 that it was selling for at the time (but I wouldn't pay that much for any case, period). That being said, this is a very high-quality leather case. Both inside and out, it's well-crafted and snuggles the Zune safely inside.
  
  I can access the squirkle and left/right buttons easily. While there is no plastic cover over the screen, this is of no concern due to the durable glass Microsoft smartly gave the Zune screen.
  
  It's almost perfect. There are two issues that keep it out of 5 star territory. First, you must remove the Zune in order to access the USB connection. Being that this is the Zune's lifeline to power and content, removing it is done on a frequent basis. And when attached to my home or car kits, the case must be tossed aside. So it is a carrying case in the purest form. It's only good when carrying the Zune.
  
  Secondly, since removing it must be done all too often, it's irksome that the headphones must be disconnected in order to free the player from the case. So there is a lot of disconnecting, removing, reconnecting, disconnecting, inserting, etc., etc., etc. Not very convenient.
  
  It would take only small modifications to make this case the end-all be-all of cases, but as it stands: it's a quality case with a few too many compromises. If I had to shell out cash for a case, I'd take a hit on quality for a more ergonomic design.
  
  

• Great case

  
  By A36TF1848P5RWZ on 2007-12-12
  This case is a very nice case. Nicely manufactured, very sturdy. Nice magnetic closer. Holds it closed securely. I am giving it 5 stars even though (as was mentioned in other review) you do have to remove the Zune from the case in order to charge it/hook up sync cable. It isn't that hard to do, but I would rather not. I guess though that if there was a hole on the bottom for the sync cable, dirt/etc could potentially get in the socket.
  
  
• DISAPPOINTED - AND HERE'S WHY...
  By AXODLG0CWV639 on 2008-03-09
  This case came free with my Zune 80 (store promotion). I have used it for a few weeks and now am in the market for a new type of case.
  
  Pros: Good protection (when you have the flap closed or are NOT using your Zune)
  
  Cons:
  1) There is no screen protection when in use - the screen cut-out is wide open;
  2) This case was not made for watching video. The flap always wants to close on you (so you have to constantly hold it open) and the Zune also has a tendancy to slide down out of the case when you are watching video (there is nothing but loose friction holding it in);
  3) There is no clip or notch or any way to connect the case to a belt or arm, so you just have to hold it (not practical for any type of exercise);
  4) There is no access to the serial port, so you have to take it out of the case whenever you connect to your computer or charge it.
  5) The stupid pink strip down the middle - great if you're a female or a guy that likes pink but I am not either (why not orange, or black, or ANY other color???)
  
  This case seems fine for storing or transporting your Zune - but definitely NOT FOR USING IT. I personally would not pay money for this case. It is a Zune brand case which is why it cost so much. But when it comes to functionality and practical use, it isn't worth much. Seek elsewhere!
  
  
  
  
• High quality, but design falls short
  By AC2BZ5L08G4GV on 2008-03-02
  Pros:
  The Amazon price was definitely right compared to other outlets, and the case does fit the 80gb Zune like a glove. The leather and stitching is clearly high quality.
  
  Cons:
  As others have noted, the cut-outs are not placed correctly, so its aggravating to use. Specifically, the hold button is hard to turn off once its turned on. The cutout for the headphones is mis-aligned, and there is no cutout for the charging/synching port. So, one must remove it from the case each time its connected.
  
  Bottom Line: I can't recommend it if convenience is a priority. If you are mostly concerned about protection and sharp looks, then you may well be happy with it.
  
  
• Really nice case
  By AFM7FK7NFEKFZ on 2008-03-12
  I just bought this case for my 80GB Zune, and I am very happy with the purchase. The case fits the unit perfectly, is lined with a soft cloth with the Zune logo, made of good quality leather, and allows the use of all controls except the USB connector on the bottom. An integrated magnetic closure keeps the cover closed. Worth the money to protect your investment.
  
  
• Not Happy With Zune Leather Case for 80 GB
  By AK6EKK36JLS9E on 2008-01-07
  I would return this item if I saved the packaging. Unfortunately it was a Christmas gift and I wrapped it without the packaging with another item. My daughter does not like this case and ended up getting a different one. It does not allow for charging within the case and does not have a protective cover for the screen. For the amount paid I am very disappointed. Martin Lowe
  
  
• Great case, but some concerns to consider...
  By A16HF0BASG1L8O on 2008-01-14
  This case is very sleek looking, well constructed, and sturdy, it protects the zune very well. As many others have said, the biggest concerns are the lack of access to the port on the bottom to be able to plug it into the sync cable while in the case. I can see how this is a big deal to many people who do not wish to take their zune of the case alot of times. The other concern is the headphone jack opening. The opening in the case allows just enough room for the microsoft premium headphones to jack in all the way. If you opt to use another set of headphones, depending on how the plug end is, it may not be able to be pushed in all the way to make a complete connection, because of the slight thickness of the leather that may not allows your 3rd party headphones to fit properly. So for these reasons, I give it 3 stars. However, I have to say, that I have seen and had hands on with several different cases, and this still has to be one of the best constructed ones out there. It is just unfortunate that the openings for the sync cable/dock and the headphones were not more thoroughly considered. Also, for 50 dollars, microsoft should have included a screen protector as well.
  
  
• Great case. Perfect for the Zune 80 gb.
  By A1ITFLS936YYNX on 2008-02-27
  I got this case to protect my Zune while carrying in my purse. It works great. Kind of expensive, but overall, worth the protection value.
  
  Pros: Compact - doesn't add bulk. Stays closed well. Sturdy. Nice leather look and feel.
  
  Cons: Doesn't have an opening at the bottom for plugging the Zune into the USB cable. You have to remove it from the case to plug it in.
  
  
  The cons are definitely not big enough to keep me from recommending this item. I don't use the device while it's plugged in to charge or download files. So I'm not worried about damaging the device while it's out of it's protective case. Otherwise, you can use all the other functions while in the case. The lower part of the case has an opening for the touch pad, and even though the other 2 navigational buttons are covered, I've not had a bit of problem with them responding to touch thru the case. There is a whole at the top of the case for inserting the headphone jack.
  
  
  
• Need better quality control..
  By AAS6Y3RK0U78L on 2008-03-26
  Product was received perfectly packaged and at first looks was an extremely well made, quality case. However once I slid my new Zune inside I realized that the cutout for the headphones was misplaced about a full 1/4" (the hole shows me a perfectly centered headphone icon, and the case completely covers the actual jack.
  
  This is disappointing and if I had paid full price I would have been rather upset.
  
  
• best case scenario
  By A10O225MJB7UCB on 2008-05-09
  This is a very well made case, very protective but functional.
  I think people will have to remember that the Zune setup, case, dark cloth ear buds, the whole thing gives the impression of an all business, powerful, piece of tech.
  
  
• Slick case - don't trust it
  By A1UAMFAV8BW24S on 2008-05-12
  This case is excellent for showing off the out-of-touch nature of the Zune in general... Just like the Zune's limited ability to handle all my media, the case is limited in its effectiveness. It does not come with a screen protector other than the leather flap. There is not an opening on the bottom to allow syncronization or charging. If you slip it in your pocket with credit cards, don't expect them to work any more! The magnet which keeps the flap closed de-magnetized EVERYTHING in my wallet... Who builds a case for a magnetic-storage device with a magnet built into it???
  
  
  
• zune 80 leather case
  By ASEFSXPMUI8IB on 2008-05-15
  pros:
  - good fit to the zune. not oversized compared to other leather cases.
  - small pocket on the inside cover. great for credit card, cash, notes, bus pass.
  - back and play buttons on the case are cool. feels good on the touch.
  -magnetic flip closure
  
  cons:
  - headphone jack cutout is a little small. i shoved a small thin marker through it to stretch it out.
  - the bottom zune plug is covered up by the case. so you have to remove it from the case to charge/sync it. i ended up cutting a hole in it so i would not have to ever remove it from the case.
  - the stitching is only along the outside edges. everything else is glued together.
  
  
• Good Idea, wretched design
  By A3D3WIQUDMO2IJ on 2007-12-13
  This case is very well made and it does look nice. However, it has one fatal flaw that renders it completely useless as a case. There is no cutout at the bottom. This means that you have to remove your Zune from the case and leave it out in order to charge it, sync it, plug it into your FM transmitter, ect. What is the point of buying a $50 case and then having to remove the Zune 15 times a day in order to do anything with it. I honestly would have loved to be in on the meeting with the moron who designed this case. The most infuriating thing to me is that this is a very well made product, just a poor design. All they had to do was place an opening at the bottom and it would have been perfect. If they were concerned about dust or debris getting in, they could have placed a trap door there. This is just another example of designers trying to place looks before practical useability. Another minor flaw is that there is no belt clip or strap. It would have been nice to have had a strap to grab in order to reduce the posibility of dropping the case when handling it. Regardless, the lack of a cutout was a deal breaker for me. I returned my case and I'm still on the lookout for a decent replacement.
  
  
• Nice enough case....way too expensive
  By AOOUOPJCMP1J6 on 2008-01-09
  I think that this is a great case for the zune. It protects it from drops (have had a few), and allows you to use the player with ease.It is pretty stylish as well. I do not like how i cannot charge it with the player in the case. Also $50 for a case is a little ridiculous. I would expect 20 dollars....even 30 dollars for an mp3 player case, but 50 dollars is annoying. I would give this product 4 stars if it was $30. That's about how much it's worth. Since there are not that many options for cases as of now (1/8/08), this is a good choice but once better and cheaper options become available...get those =)
  
  
• LOVE MY ZUNE CASE!
  By AUGECDHW09RPZ on 2008-02-19
  This case is great for the traveler - I commute to work on the train everyday and so this case is nice and sturdy without being too clunky. The leather is very nice so I can understand the bigger price tag. I've had it for about 3 months now and still see no scratches or visible wear and tear (and I'm constantly putting it in my purse, pocket, etc.)The one feature I love is on the inside there is a ittle envelope flap where I can put my train card, gym membership, and any other cards I want readily available. The fact that the bottom has no cutout is not an issue for me because I'd rather it be closed so dust can't accumulate- and I don't mind taking it out of the case to sync and charge. The only thing I would advise is to get a screen protector (I got mine for 2.99 on eBay) just to protect the screen. That's why I give it 4 stars, If the case had a built in screen protector it would be perfect. Otherwise, I love this case and I can see this lasting a long time as opposed to the cheaper ones out there.
  
  
• Zune Leather Case
  By AO2HO3ON3F6OX on 2008-02-25
  Overall, I am happy with this product. The one drawback, as mentioned in other reviews, is that there is no hole on the bottom of case to plug the USB adapter through. Thus, you must remove the zune from its case if you want to sync, or charge the unit.
  
  
• Nice case, sells for $50.00 everuwhere else
  By A10S20ZI1VZS0F on 2008-02-25
  For under $30.00 this is a REALLY nice case. I don't know that I would pay the $50.00 as sold everywhere else I looked, but the amazon price made me buy it. The case is made from a very high quality leather and has a really nice microfiber inside. There is no opening for the Sync cable, but that's not a big issue for me. Also the headphone opening isn't very large but I opened it up a little with a Unibit and it works perfectly and didn't damage the appearance. It offers great protection and nice presentation. A+
  
  
• VERY NICE LEATHER CASE...GOOD PROTECTION
  By A22KWF56R3EW12 on 2008-02-26
  This is a finely crafted piece...nice design and well executed. I feel as though this case would help greatly if the Zune were to get dropped. I don't want to try it but I think it could probably survive unscathed if this were to happen.
  
  
• Received wrong merchandise, again.
  By AMF273H83Q03Y on 2008-03-20
  I ordered a black Zune leather cover, I received a brown Zune leather cover. I do not have the time to return it. So now I am stuck with it. I went with this company because I ordered a black cover from another company and I received a red one. Now I have 2 covers and neither one is what I paid for. This company's ad specifically said black leather cover, that is why I ordered from them. My mistake. Next time I will go into a store and make my purchase so I can see what I am getting before I pay for it.
  
  
• Zune Leather Case
  By A1CMRPICZG78FN on 2008-04-06
  The case is very good, very useful and good looking at the same time. The only setback that I personally see in the case is the fact that it doesn't have a hole for the charge cable, so you have to take the zune out of the case every time you are going to charge it. But that really isn't a big deal.
  
  
• Great Case!
  By A2HW0WPK4CYCDP on 2008-04-06
  My husband loves the case. I received the order very fast. Thank you for the quick service. It got to me just in time for my husband's birthday.
  
  
• Great! But...
  By AZ09HLMFM62XH on 2008-04-11
  It fits right and tight. The button selection works good through the case, except for the center slide/brush function (not the best for big fingers). Yet it's missing one thing (a slot to sync without sliding off the case).
  
  
• Well-Rounded Product...
  By A2QQD7OMEKX4D2 on 2008-04-12
  Short and sweet... With the recent price drops (from $40-$50 to about $24 now), this case has finally become worth buying. Nevermind that it's first-party merch... it's initial price disgusted me. But now, I feel safer bringing my Zune everywhere with me without worrying about scratching the screen or dropping it. Don't care for the "Zune Brown" color, but as far ar function, it's almost perfect. It'd be nice to have a slit in the bottom for charging/data transfer cable... Good product, glad the price finally came down.
  
  
• What's with the pink? Great case otherwise
  By A1LRRRGWD7UE2X on 2008-04-26
  I bought this with my Zune and I really like it... all except that pink stripe, which I immediately took a Sharpie to and is now black. I hated it: that bad. Anyhow, the case is well made and compact, easily allowing me to carry my Zune in my back pocket. I agree with the others that there should be a cut out for the sync cable. Not sure why that was left out, but aside from that this is a great accessory that I am entirely satisfied with (now that the pink stripe is gone).
  
  
• Case Sensitive
  By A2JL69VEGFKQD5 on 2008-05-10
  Overall I am very happy with this case. The color and quality fit my Halo3 Edition Zune very well. The inside design and pink stripe, though some dislike, offset the dark brown well and give it character. The magnet in the flap holds well, the Zune fits nice and snug and the headphone hole lines up.
  
  The only things I would change would possibly be making the lock swith accessible and maybe the syncing port. But then it would just be more openings for debris and possibly make the case less sturdy.
  
  Personally, I really like it. To each his own.
  
  
  
  
• Limited
  By A2SFKJCBC0HBFU on 2008-06-11
  I like the look and leathery smell of this Zune case, but it is far from perfect. While being rather well made and functioning well in certain situations, there are some simply idiotic design flaws that become apparent almost immediately.
  
  First, you cannot charge or dock your player while it is in the case. The proprietary port along the bottom is completely covered up by the case.
  
  Second, and most annoying to me, the hole for the headphone jack is on the small side, only allowing low profile plugs like the plug for the included Zune headphones to fit easily. Some regular plugs will fit, but often you have to jam them in as hard as you can and then they are in danger of becoming unseated. I finally purchased a short cable adapter designed for iPhones.
  
  Third, the leather around the squircle is thick, which means you can't rest your finger on the edge when navigating, which makes the already spotty navigation a real pain.
  
  Other than these three huge flaws, it's a nice case.
  
  
• Only a Base Hit
  By A2I7WK3Z2VYZX3 on 2008-06-18
  Well made and attractive. Hole for output is small in diameter and not centered so the only plug that fits Zune with cover on is the Zune earbuds. No opening for serial cable on bottom, so Zune must be pulled out for each connection making it not protected during use and handling, or in the car. A bit counterproductive. Would have been a 5 with these two problems corrected, the engineers must have never used one.
  
  

• Zune 80 GB Digital Media Player (Black)
• Zune Home A/V Pack
• Zune Car Pack v2
• Zune Dock Pack v2
• Zune Home AV Pack v2