Side installation, the phone enters and leaves the hard cover (do not get excited and drive a wedge and the bottom on the same side, same with out).
You can find videos on these test covers (a Galaxy S4 for example) and see that it is resistant to significant falls (1.50 to 1.80). I have not had a drop (and I hope not to have) but I think I have a very good protection of my note 3.
A possible trouble: it thickens considerably phone (same thickness as the iphone 4 case with a fine) but I find it rather enjoyable. This thickening does not interfere with the inductive load (samsung pad). The other main problem is the price, but my bag home B. cost 25 euros (for 3 months, it is a bit expensive) and also, considering the price of the phone, I prefer to dress properly!
In short, I fully recommend this cover unless you want to keep the smoothness of your rating 3.
EDIT: I just edit my review to share two additional elements:
- Last week: after 9 months of service, first fall outdoor, downtown, free of debris cobbled square, height of the pocket or 1.4 meter. Result: Flawless! Neither the note 3 to the hull or (perhaps a tiny scratch on the hull but I could not tell if it was there before and it's really what I nitpick!). In short: it is indestructible and very effective case to protect the phone !!
- Another notable point in July 2014: the cover is 25 euros (against 30 when I bought it) so go for it!