So you want a case that's sturdy, but doesn't feel like a hard case? The Case-Mate POP! for the HTC ThunderBolt is a good middle ground. It's molded out of a hard plastic for strength and rigidity, plus a soft rubber for a more friendly touch.
The bulk of the case -- which comes in black, pink or white -- is made of a glassy plastic, with the Case-Mate logo plenty visible. But on the sides are a textured rubber, which really softens the feel of the case and gives you good grip when you pick it up. There are cutouts for the antenna, camera and flashes, microphones, microUSB port and 3.5mm headphone jack, and the volume and power buttons are of the same rubber as the sides and interior of the case.
You've got a little extra thickness that helps protect the screen from touching when it's left face-down, and the camera lens is kept well clear of any flat surfaces, too.
It's not a minimal case -- you'll definitely know it's on there. But it's a nice middle ground between a skin case and something more rugged. It's a one-piece unit, so the ThunderBolt just slips in and out. But it's a snug fit, and the phone shouldn't be going anywhere once it's in.
The Case-Mate POP! for the HTC ThunderBolt is available for $27.95 in the Android Central Store. We've got more pics of it after the break.
HTC ThunderBolt | ThunderBolt cases | ThunderBolt Accessories
