Choosing a Case for Apple iPad
When choosing an iPad case, ask yourself why you need one. Will your iPad need protection against construction sites and other hazardous environments?
Leather cases add a protective layer without making the iPad look too bulky. Some feature a fold-back folio cover that doubles as a stand for typing or viewing. Closing the cover automatically wakes or puts the tablet to sleep.
1. JETech Case
If you’re not ready to drop a lot of cash on a case, check out this option from JETech. It offers basic all-around protection for the iPad and keeps the weight down to just five ounces. You get a hard shell that wraps the chassis and a slim folio cover that protects the screen.
This case uses the same design as the Apple Smart Cover, but it also offers a few extra features. For one, the folio cover snaps on or off magnetically. It also puts the display to sleep when closed and wakes it up when you open it. Its segmented design also lets it fold into different positions, including a stand to watch videos or stream shows hands-free and a low position for typing.
There’s nothing that makes an iPad truly impervious, but this case comes close. The Zagg Orlando encases the 10.2-inch model in a tank-like case that’s thick and soft with built-in handles. It’s designed to keep the tablet safe from drops and even withstand a dunk in water.
While most cases look the same, some go above and beyond to match your personal style. The Casemade leather version wraps the tablet in black or tan Italian cowhide and is available for all recent iPad sizes. The case also includes slots for the Apple Pencil and a magnetic lid that helps it close more securely, boosting safety.
2. TiMOVO Case
If you’re looking for a case that will protect your iPad against all the bumps and bruises of daily life, then check out the OtterBox Defender. This case is made of a combination of hard polycarbonate and soft, shock-absorbing rubber. It also includes a screen cover that doubles as a stand and holds the Apple Pencil in place. Plus, it has port covers to keep dust and debris out when the case is not in use.
The Casemade Alpha case is another great choice for those who want a protective Tablet Protective Cover case with a premium look. This case is available in black or tan Italian cowhide leather, so it will add some class to your iPad. Plus, it has a magnetic stand that can position your iPad at the perfect angle for reading or watching movies. The case is also very durable, with tests showing that it can withstand drops up to five feet.
Another great feature of this case is that it supports the Smart Keyboard, so you can turn your iPad into a mini laptop. The case also has a backlit QWERTY keyboard and a trackpad to make typing and text selection easier. The case is also compatible with wireless charging, so you can charge your iPad while it’s Case for Apple iPad in the case. And the best part is that it has a lifetime warranty.
3. Apple Smart Cover
When the iPad 2 was released, Apple’s Smart Cover became popular as a way to keep your tablet safe without adding too much bulk. It features magnets inside the cover that mate with the iPad’s own magnets, so when you open or close it the iPad will sleep or wake up, depending on what setting you put it in.
While this is a great idea in theory, it’s not always the best solution in practice. For one, the case can be difficult to fit correctly. You have to be pretty precise with how you position it over the iPad or it won’t snap in. And because it only covers the front of the tablet, it doesn’t protect the back or sides of your device from bumps and drops.
Despite these problems, the Smart Cover still offers some decent protection. Its polyurethane material feels soft and light on the hand, but it’s also sturdy enough to protect your iPad from scuffs and scratches. And it doesn’t interfere with the rear-facing camera, buttons or ports, either.
Like the old Smart Cover, this one can fold back to serve as a stand for typing and video viewing. However, it’s wobbly when positioned upright and isn’t very sturdy, making it hard to type on or watch videos without the iPad wanting to topple over. And getting the cover open is a bit finicky, too. Its lip is flush with the edge of the body, so it’s hard to grab a tab to lift the cover up.
4. Speck Case
This case from Speck is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to keep their iPad looking great without covering it in a heavy case. It’s compact, sparkly, and durable. It’s also easy to install and remove. Just place both thumbs inside the cut out while facing the device, grip the edge of the case with your fingers, and gently push the iPad through. Then, close the case and secure it with the magnetic closure.
It has a raised bezel around the screen to protect it from damage if dropped face down on a hard surface. It also has covered buttons and reinforced corners to help prevent smudges and scrapes. Plus, it has antimicrobial protection from Microban to reduce odor- and stain-causing bacteria by up to 99%.
The Speck case comes with an integrated stand to prop up your iPad for hands-free viewing or typing. It’s made from a durable polycarbonate material and has a soft interior to cushion your tablet. It also features a protective cover that snaps to the back of your tablet when not in use.
The case has a cutout to accommodate the Apple Pencil and a built-in kickstand for typing and viewing. It’s available in a variety of colors and finishes. This case is a solid choice for any iPad user. It also protects your screen from scratches and scuffs, and it has a magnet that helps to wake your device up when closed or put it to sleep when open.