For anyone who migrated from a Treo to the Centro, the smaller size was clearly the main draw. Adding a case to the Centro, especially one of the bulkier hard variety, can seem like two steps forward, one step back — unless, of course, you had a high standard of protection in the first place, and were leaving behind a similarly encased Treo.
In transitioning from making a metal case for the Treo to making one for the Centro, Monaco has made a couple of minor design improvements that amount to slightly more than a mere size reduction. The Centro model has less of the unfinished quality of the Monaco’s Treo versions.
Like the Treo versions, this case is made from aluminum, with an anodized exterior and a neoprene-lined interior. Black and Silver versions are available. Monaco designed the case to be compatible with Sprint’s version of the Centro when it was the only version around. Unfortunately, due to design deviations, the case is not compatible with the AT&T version of the Centro.
The case is hinged on the right side, and has a grip latch on the left side. Where it’s possible to easily mold plastic cases into two-piece models that snap together without a latch or hinge, it’s apparently more difficult to do with metal versions. The latch and hinge protrude from the body’s rounded rectangle contouring, aesthetically detracting from the otherwise graceful profile. They also make the case less pocket-friendly, as they risk catching on your pocket lining or, worse, your fingers.
The Monaco Aluminum Hard Case naturally adds enough bulk to the Centro to make you feel like you’ve gone back to the Treo. But, of course, a Treo with a hard case would be even bulkier. Anyone in the market for a hard case already knows to expect a compromise in size.
The case’s aesthetics are a little inelegant in a couple of places, as metal cases tend to be, but the overall look is robust and professional, and the anodized surface has a great feel to it.
More importantly, the Monaco is probably the most protective case currently available for the Centro. It might scuff or dent on a drop, but once you see the Centro inside of it, you’ll be completely confident that the device won’t shatter.
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