The Dexnor S25 Ultra case delivers comprehensive protection at £15-25 with a sliding magnetic camera cover, built-in PET screen protector, adjustable kickstand, and claimed 10ft military-grade drop protection. Customers praise its solid construction, noting it feels “very heavy-duty without being too much” and comparing it favorably to Otterbox—”feels sturdier and less bulky.” However, the built-in screen protector’s fingerprint recognition circle doesn’t properly align with the S25 Ultra’s built-in fingerprint scanner, requiring users to press harder than normal for registration. The case includes two front frames (one with protector, one without) allowing users to apply their own screen protection if preferred. For outdoor enthusiasts and those prone to drops who can tolerate fingerprint quirks, this offers exceptional value, but wireless charging requires extremely precise placement and may fail frequently.
Rating: 3.5/5 Stars ⭐⭐⭐☆
Build Quality and Practical Features
The thermoplastic polyurethane construction with shock-absorbent bumpers provides genuine protection, with one user reporting “haven’t broken a phone in 5 years using their cases.” The sliding camera cover uses upgraded magnetic repulsion technology for smooth operation, effectively protecting the massive camera array from scratches and dust while staying closed during normal use—it doesn’t open accidentally. The adjustable aluminum alloy kickstand holds securely in both portrait and landscape orientations, though some reviewers note it’s “slightly less robust” than previous Dexnor models and may wear down with heavy use. Precise cutouts allow access to all ports, buttons, and the S Pen slot without removing the case, maintaining full device functionality including PowerShare reverse wireless charging support.
What Users Appreciate:
- Superior to Otterbox at lower price – One long-time Otterbox Defender user switched after noting Otterbox quality declined while prices increased, finding Dexnor offers “very good balance of form and function” with sturdier construction and less bulk for half the cost
- Dual frame flexibility – The second front frame without screen protector lets users apply premium tempered glass alternatives if the included PET film proves problematic, maintaining case benefits while upgrading protection quality
Significant Drawbacks:
- Fingerprint sensor misalignment – The adhesive fingerprint recognition circle doesn’t align properly with the ultrasonic sensor, requiring harder presses and occasional failures; users are warned never to wipe this area as it damages the adhesive coating permanently
- Wireless charging unreliability – Navy Blue variant owner reports “wireless charging is unreliable” with “extremely sensitive” placement requirements that “often fails,” making the feature essentially unusable for some configurations
Protection Level and Value Comparison
| Feature | Dexnor S25 Ultra | OtterBox Defender | Spigen Tough Armor |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | £15-25 | £40-60 | £20-30 |
| Drop rating | 10ft (claimed) | Military-grade (MIL-STD) | Military-grade |
| Camera cover | Sliding magnetic | Open cutout | Raised bezel only |
| Screen protector | Built-in PET | Separate purchase | None included |
| Kickstand | Adjustable metal | No | Basic plastic |
| Wireless charging | Finicky | Reliable | Reliable |
| Fingerprint issues | Reported | None | None |
Who should buy this: Outdoor enthusiasts hiking, camping, or engaging in activities where drops are likely will appreciate the comprehensive 360° protection including screen and camera coverage at budget-friendly pricing. Construction workers, parents of young children, or anyone with a history of shattered phones get peace of mind. Users comfortable applying their own tempered glass screen protector should select the second front frame, eliminating fingerprint alignment issues while maintaining full case functionality. One satisfied customer notes purchasing at £15 makes it “exceptionally good value given it comes with a screen protector.”
Who should avoid this: Anyone prioritizing seamless fingerprint unlock should skip this—the adhesive circle over the ultrasonic sensor creates frustrating delays and occasional failures that undermine Samsung’s advanced biometric technology. Heavy wireless charger users will face constant placement struggles with unreliable charging. Business professionals wanting sleeker aesthetics or lighter weight should explore slimmer cases like Spigen Liquid Air (£15) or Samsung’s official cases (£25-45). The case adds noticeable bulk and weight, making one-handed use more challenging for those with smaller hands or preferring minimalist protection.
Need bombproof protection for your £1,000+ flagship? This delivers military-grade defense with camera coverage—just know you’re trading fingerprint convenience for comprehensive armor. What’s your drop horror story?
