$29.95
I did a review of the previous version of this case for the first-generation iPhone - you can read it here. Since then, Incase has updated it a bit and made a version for the iPhone 3G, and I was lucky enough to get it as a gift (thanks Cathy!) and I wanted to give you an idea of what it's like if you're thinking of getting one. It's now offered in a variety of colors, from the standard black to yellow and pink. I have it in orange, currently my favorite color, and I like it - it's not day-glo bright and is just the right shade.
Material
If you're wondering about what the changes are between the case versions for the first-generation and 3G iPhones are, they focus mainly on the finish and material - the level of the protection and access the case allows is exactly the same. It's still a rubber/silicone material, but the exterior is now smoother compared to the dull finish of the previous version. Additionally, the lines traced in the exterior for decoration in what Incase calls a topographic pattern now have a glossy finish that contrasts nicely with the matte portions of the case.
The case doesn't feel quite as grippy as the version I had for the first-generation iPhone, but it's still far more grippy than a naked iPhone. I find it hard to put my iPhone in my pocket when it's in this case, but as a girl, the jeans I wear are on the snug side as it is. Putting it in my bag is not a problem.
Access
As with the version of this case for the first-generation iPhone, the Protective Cover covers the bezel around the screen but leaves the entire screen and home button uncovered. There are cut-outs for the camera lens, headphone port, ring/silent toggle, and dock port. Reaching through the cutout to access the ring/silent toggle takes a fingernail, but isn't difficult at all. I have no problems plugging in the OEM iPhone headphones or my V-Moda Vibe Duos (which I reviewed here) through the headphone port cut-out. The iPhone cannot be docked while in this case unless you're using the Universal Dock without an insert or some similar set-up.
The volume up/down rocker and on/off switch are covered but there are raised sections above these buttons that can easily be found by feel alone and pressed. Pressing these buttons is not hard - the case is firm but doesn't add so much resistance that pressing through it is impossible or even all that difficult.
If you're looking for screen protection, the Protective Cover is not the case for you. I use a screen protector (currently one of the Power Support anti-glare films sold in Apple Stores) and the Protective Cover does not interfere with it at all. I had a skin on the rear of my iPhone at one point, and the Protective Cover fit over it with no major problems. My guess is that it would also fit over a full-body skin as well, though it might be a bit snug.
Using the case
I like to have instant access to the screen since I frequently use my iPhone during my commute on the train and often have only one hand to spare to use my iPhone. I had a Vaja iVolution case (you can see my review of it here) with a front flap for my iPhone and while I really liked it, I ended up using the Slider case more often since it suited the way I use my iPhone better. The Protective Cover offers unhindered screen access, like the Slider.
I like to dock my iPhone for charging and syncing to be able to see the screen at a glance, and I have an iHome iP9 alarm clock at home where my iPhone sits at night. With the Protective cover, this isn't feasible unless I remove the insert from the iHome clock radio or the Universal Dock I use at work, and removing the case and putting it back on repeatedly will definitely stretch it out. I've used this case for maybe a total of 3 weeks and it's already a little stretched out, though it's not nearly as bad as the first version of this case for my first-generation iPhone that went back to Incase for a warranty replacement.
During my commute, my iPhone usually goes in my coat pocket and then into my jeans pocket at work occasionally. I found the Incase Protective Cover to be a bit too grippy for this kind of storage. The Incase Slider I use now is perfect in comparison - it's matte surface offers enough grip to make it easier to hold on to but not too much to be a hindrance when putting it in my pocket. If you wear looser pants or don't keep your iPhone in your pocket, this probably won't be an issue for you.
Summary
I'd recommend this case for you if you don't have the need or desire to dock your iPhone regularly, aren't concerned about screen protection or just use a film screen protector like me, and want a better grip and decent drop protection for your iPhone 3G. I haven't drop tested my iPhone 3G in this case, nor do I plan to, but I know someone who had this case and dropped his iPhone 3G onto a sidewalk while in it - he said his iPhone actually bounced a little and suffered no damage whatsoever. I think it's a good case for a certain subset of users, but it's not quite for me for daily use, though I would probably use it if I take my 3G snowboarding if I couldn't take my spare phone instead. This is a case I plan to keep for periodic use and my Incase Slider will continue to be my regular case.
As I always caution with Incase products, you should avoid purchasing this case directly from Incase online since they charge way more for shipping and handling than it actually costs, even when considering the packaging materials too.
Related reviews:
Incase Slider for 3G iPhone
Griffin Nu Form case for iPhone 3G
Incase Slider for first-generation iPhone
Incase Protective Cover for first-generation iPhone
Paul Frank case for first-generation iPhone