KerfCase Wood Case for Google Pixel 2 XL – Review


This is our review of the Walnut Wood Case for Google Pixel 2 XL, by KerfCase. There are several wood cases available in the market for Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL, but the one that got us more interested to use and write about is the one by KerfCase. This company out of Pittsburgh builds all-wood cases carved out of genuine, different types of wood. You can tell the company takes pride in the product by their packaging, finish and overall aesthetics of the case.

Other wood cases in the market usually apply a thin layer of wood to the plastic case, giving just the look and feel of ‘wood’ to your phone case. KerfCase, on the other hand, uses a single block of wood and carves it out as per the Pixel 2 XL dimensions. Cases are also available for the original Google Pixel, Pixel XL and also for the Pixel 2 XL.

KerfCase Walnut Case for Google Pixel 2 XL

KerfCase Wood Case Review

The case itself comes well-packed, safely kept in a muslin bag that has been sewn from virgin cotton and fitted inside a cardboard cutout. As soon as you open the box, you are greeted with the strong smell of wood — interestingly, it still does even after using the case for about two weeks now. You slide the case out of the little bag and you notice the sheer craftiness, premium build of the product. Just as you hold the case for the very first time, you will notice how smooth it is and feels great in hands.

You can easily slip the phone inside the shell case by pushing it straight down. Your phone is held properly by the suede lining at the inner side of the case. Similarly, removing the case was as easy as it only required a soft push from the back side. The case feels amazing with its smooth body and edges with clicky buttons.

KerfCase Walnut Case Review for Google Pixel 2 XL

Here are a few points I’d like to discuss about the case:

Build Quality: This wood case is built out of premium materials and it feels great. It is stylish, clean and smooth on the outside. It has a solid feel to it with no bends or flex unlike other ‘wood’ cases.

Design: The design is very similar to any other shell case available for this (or any other) smartphone. It is big in size! And this makes it difficult to use your phone with one hand. Another point to note, is the lip doesn’t really wrap around on the front which makes it slightly less protective if you drop the phone face down on a hard surface. And since we have mentioned it, the front lip is big (you can even see it in our photos). This would be a great fit if you have a glass screen protector on your phone. This case is clean with minimal branding on the right side — a small ‘KERF’ engraved on the right side.

Cutouts: The cutouts line up precisely and are wide-enough for me to have no issues with connecting any accessory to the Pixel 2 XL. The mic cutout at the top is on point with the USB-C opening at the bottom. The camera cutout is also perfect as it does not cover any sensors. The fingerprint cutout is slightly bigger in size than it has to be, but it still works for us.

KerfCase Walnut Case for Google Pixel 2 XL

Buttons: You may be worried on the type of buttons on a wood case, but rest assured, these buttons on the KerfCase case are probably the best ones. The last case I enjoyed with great buttons is the Google Fabric Case for Pixel. And KerfCase tops it! The tactile feel to the buttons makes it a delight to use.

Protection: The case offers limited protection to the phone as it comes without any cushioning or soft edges on the inside. Overall drop protection is yet to be seen, but I hope we don’t have to get to that. In my opinion, the case would crack if you drop your phone on a hard surface. And in worst-case, your phone screen could also break. KerfCase offers a free repair warranty with every case!

Pricing: KerfCase cases are priced on the higher side with their basic Walnut Case starting from $69 (for the Pixel 2 XL) and go all the way up to $239 for the Rosewood Case. You can get 10% off if you use the code FRIEND10 before checking out. This high price is justified and well-worth because of the lifetime warranty.

KerfCase Walnut Case for Google Pixel 2 XL

I have been using the case for about two weeks now and have been absolutely loved it. Over time, the case gathers up dust and dirt on the insides and between the case and the phone. However, it is no issue to push out the phone once in a while to clean it.

Given the high price, this may not be the case for everyone. However, if you are in looking for a stylish, clean case that stands out from the rest, we highly recommend buying a wood case from KerfCase.

Buy KerfCase Wood Case for Google Pixel 2 XL

Thanks KerfCase for sending this case to us!

Haris Nadeem
Haris Nadeem

Haris lives on everything Android; has countless devices, apps and games to play with everyday. Currently serving as the Chief Editor at Team Android. Connect on Twitter: @harisn

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