User Review History
pwsmith's review of the Casio G'zOne Commando 4G LTE
original version, submitted Jul 8, 2013, 11:31 AM:
Worth the wait...
As an I.T. Professional who travels extensively, frequents project construction sites - but also enjoys cycling, performs home improvement projects and enjoys an active outside lifestyle - finding the right phone has been difficult. As previous owner of a Casio rugged phone which lasted 7 years and still works, I chose to skip the first generation Commando and wait for this 2nd generation redesigned 4G phone. I had to use my laptop far longer for email than I wanted to, I'm glad I waited.
The first Commando just didn't feel right, so I skipped it. However the new 4G Commando is redesigned with larger screen and thinner profile. I chose the hard-shell holster accepts the phone screen first for 100% protection. The build feels very sturdy and meets mil specs for moisture dust and shock. Not afraid to put this phone in the back of a cycling jersey and go for a 50 mile sweaty ride.
The OS is very fast and rivals any iPhone I've used (other members of the family have iPhones). I like iPhones but I don’t believe one-size-fits-all and I’m not a fan of form-over-function and need a ruggedized phone for my activities.
The 8MP camera has panorama, rapid shot and multiple settings to deal with adjusting quality and for low light.
The G'zone apps included are for tides, moon, sun and weather, navigation, etc.
Battery seems to last all day (12 hours) under constant use, and went 28 hours or so under nominal/standby use before barking about 6% battery level. I tend to text, email, take photos, hit some web pages and listen to Pandora.
The speakers are AWESOME - great sound quality.
The only thing I would change after having the new phone for one week - is to make the entire phone black - remove the red accents (speakers, the red ring around the camera lens) and paint the stainless screws black. Not a big deal maybe I’ll customize ...
edited Aug 25, 2014, 10:20 AM to the current version:
REVISED - stick a fork in Casio and Verizon - I'm done with both...
My initial review was pretty good. But after 13 months and no trauma to the 'hardened' phone, I began 'freezing' requiring removal of battery to reset the phone.
After multiple factory resets I contacted Verizon, who stated they have DISCONTINUED the Casio Commando, and they have no other hardened phone offering, and they state I am out of warranty and can PURCHASE A NEW PHONE AT FULL PRICE if I don't like the one I currently have.
Stick a fork in Casio. Stick a fork in Verizon. I am thru with both companies.
