I love the way the mute switch is operated! The dial approach is much easier to use than the Pelican or Lifeproof switch approach. I also like the ability to have a wrist strap—I have issues with my right hand and drop things all the time, so this is really helpful. The plastic this case is made from allows for a popsocket to be attached easily to the back. It passed the water test with no issues.
I have yet to drop it, so I can’t attest to how it performs with drops, but it seems made well enough to withstand drops to the edges. I don’t know how it would do with a shot straight to the screen, but that goes for any case of this nature. And... I can hear phone calls again! My previous Pelican waterproof case was a disaster for that. I do need to open the rubber piece that covers the port to make some sound quality improvements in some situations, but that’s a small thing.
I wish the case’s edges were slightly more raised up so that the screen sat recessed back a bit more- it would cause more peace of mind for drops flat on the screen side. And the back scratches quite easily, but if you’re not worried about the cosmetics, that’s a non-issue. The screen protector fairs better than the back in terms of not getting scuffed up quickly, and is responsive to touch well enough. Better than some I’ve owned, for sure. Be cautious with the rubber port protector— I can totally see how it can get ripped off easily if it’s accidentally left open or tugged on too hard.
All in all I would buy another Catalyst, especially given my terrible luck with my last two LifeProof cases :(
Stealth Black
