Snakehive Phone Case Review: Premium Style on a Student Budget

Finding the perfect phone case can be a challenge. You want something that offers robust protection without breaking the bank, all while looking stylish. We got our hands on a couple of beautiful wooden cases from the UK-based brand Snakehive to see if they live up to the hype. Our student reviewer, Heather, put them to the test.

That feeling is universal: you’ve just spent a significant amount of money on a brand-new smartphone. As you unbox it, you admire its flawless, glossy finish. The thought of it getting its first scratch is enough to cause anxiety. To preserve that pristine, box-fresh look for as long as possible, a protective case isn’t just an accessory; it’s a necessity. Beyond safeguarding your device from the inevitable drops, bumps, and scrapes of daily life, a case is a fantastic way to personalize your phone and make it stand out, especially when it seems like everyone you know has the exact same model.

The market is flooded with phone cases, many of which carry a hefty price tag, often exceeding £30 or £40. After splurging on an expensive handset, it’s understandable why many students and budget-conscious buyers might risk going without one. This is where Snakehive carves out its niche. The brand offers a stunning collection of premium protective cases for phones and tablets at prices that are refreshingly student-friendly. What makes them stand out is their commitment to using high-quality, authentic materials without the exorbitant cost, creating a perfect balance between affordability and luxury.

The Snakehive range is impressively diverse. They specialize in crafting cases from genuine European leather and sustainably sourced woods. Their designs include classic wallet cases, slim back cases, traditional flip cases, and simple pouches, ensuring there’s a style for every preference. We had the opportunity to review two iPhone cases from their distinctive Wilderness Collection, which features cases beautifully crafted from real wood, including bamboo, cherrywood, maple, rosewood, and walnut.

Review: Snakehive iPhone 5 Back Case in Rosewood

Design and Feel

The iPhone 5 back case in rosewood immediately impresses with its premium feel. The case slotted onto the phone effortlessly, fitting like a glove with a reassuring snap. The natural wood grain on the back is the star of the show; it’s smooth to the touch and adds a unique, sophisticated look that mass-produced plastic cases simply can’t replicate. Each case has a distinct pattern, meaning no two are exactly alike. The rich, deep tones of the rosewood lend an air of elegance to the phone, transforming it from a simple piece of tech into a stylish accessory.

Protection and Functionality

Aesthetics aside, a case’s primary job is protection. The Snakehive design has clearly been meticulously tested. The cut-outs for all the buttons, charging port, speakers, and camera are perfectly positioned, allowing for full and easy access without any obstruction. You never have to struggle to plug in your charger or adjust the volume. The interior of the case features a sturdy, rubberised holder with a matte finish. This not only keeps the phone securely in place, preventing any wiggling or movement, but also provides excellent shock absorption against drops. The case also creates a subtle lip around the edge of the screen, which is a crucial feature that allows you to place your phone face down on a flat surface without the screen making contact, significantly reducing the risk of scratches. During our testing, the added grip of the case made the phone much easier to pick up and hold, reducing the likelihood of accidental slips.

Value and Verdict

While our review period was short, the case feels incredibly well-made and durable, suggesting it would stand up well to long-term use. It was a pleasure to use, providing peace of mind that the back of the phone was protected from daily wear and tear. The most surprising aspect of this case is its price. Selling for just £12.95 on the Snakehive website, it offers exceptional value. Considering the use of real, sustainably sourced wood and the precision of its design, it competes directly with high-end cases that often cost two or three times as much. If there were one minor drawback to mention, it would be that the rubberised trim around the edge is only available in black. Offering a white trim option would be a welcome addition for users with white or lighter-coloured iPhones.

Review: Snakehive iPhone 7 Wallet Case in Rosewood

All-Round Protection and Utility

For those seeking more comprehensive protection, the iPhone 7 Wallet Case is an outstanding choice. This design covers the phone from both the front and back, offering complete defense against dirt, dust, and scratches, especially when your phone is rattling around in a bag or pocket with keys. Just like the back case, the wallet version demonstrates thoughtful design. The cut-outs for the ports, buttons, and camera are perfectly aligned, ensuring no loss of functionality. The phone is held securely within a similar rubberised matt holder, providing excellent impact protection.

Smart Features

The “wallet” aspect adds a layer of fantastic convenience. The inside of the front flap features two slots for credit cards or an ID, making it perfect for times when you want to travel light without carrying a separate wallet. It’s an ideal companion for a quick run to the shops or a night out. Another clever feature is its integrated stand function. You can fold the case back to prop the phone up at a comfortable viewing angle, which is brilliant for watching YouTube videos, following a recipe in the kitchen, or making hands-free video calls. This small but significant detail greatly enhances the user experience.

Value and Verdict

The rosewood finish gives the iPhone 7 a very sophisticated and professional look. At just £14.95, this wallet case delivers incredible value for the quality and functionality it provides. It feels robust and protective without adding excessive bulk. The reassurance of having the screen covered is a major plus. Similar to the back case, our only minor critique is the lack of a white trim option, which would appeal to a broader range of aesthetic preferences. However, with a black iPhone 7, the black trim looked exceptionally sleek and cohesive.

The Unboxing Experience: A Touch of Class

Snakehive understands that the premium experience starts before you even touch the product. Both cases arrived in very classy, neutral-coloured boxes made from what appears to be recycled card. This thoughtful presentation reinforces the high-end feel of the products and elevates the entire unboxing process. This attention to detail makes a Snakehive case an ideal and relatively inexpensive gift for a friend or family member who has just gotten a new phone. It’s an affordable present that feels genuinely luxurious.

Final Thoughts

After testing these two cases, we are thoroughly impressed with Snakehive. The brand successfully delivers on its promise of high-quality, stylish, and protective cases at an accessible price point. The use of natural materials like real wood sets them apart in a market dominated by plastic. Both the back case and the wallet case offer excellent protection, a perfect fit, and a unique aesthetic. For students or anyone looking for a premium phone case without the designer price tag, Snakehive should be at the top of your list. They prove that you don’t have to compromise on style or quality to protect your valuable tech.

You can explore the full collection of wooden and leather cases on the Snakehive website.