You unwrapped a shiny new iPad for Christmas or Hanukkah — congratulations! — and now you need a case for it. I’ve tested a bunch of these and have recommendations for the best iPad cases.
These protect your computer from life’s little mishaps. But you can also get an iPad case with a built-in keyboard and trackpad to upgrade your table to a ultralight laptop.
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Best iPad cases
A good iPad case should shield your tablet from damage while also acting as a stand for when you’re on the go. And it shouldn‘t add too much bulk. An Apple Pencil holder is a plus.
OtterBox Statement Series Studio
Photo: OtterBox
OtterBox is known for excellent cases, and its Statement Series Studio is one of the best I’ve ever used. It includes an adjustable stand and removable front flap, but was still designed to add minimal weight. There’s an innovative sliding Apple Pencil holder, too.
In my review of this case, I called it “a brilliant balance of protection and portability.”
Buy it from: Amazon
This iPad Air case (also available for iPad Pro models) delivers ample protection for people who don't take their tablets on adventures.
- Protective without being bulky
- Includes kickstand and Apple Pencil slot
- Removable front cover
- Not compatible with Thunderbolt cables
Pitaka MagEZ Folio 2
Photo: Pitaka
Those wanting the best minimalist iPad case need look no farther than the Pitaka MagEZ Folio 2. It clings magnetically to your tablet, protecting the screen and back from scratches. And the front cover flips around to become an origami-style stand. And don’t overlook the Apple Pencil holder.
As I noted in my review, “My M4 iPad Pro still feels thin and super-portable, even in the case.”
Buy from: Amazon
The very slim Pitaka MagEZ Folio 2 clings magnetically to your tablet, protecting the screen and back from scratches.
- Very slim and lightweight
- Stand works in portrait an landscape modes
- Apple Pencil holder
- Kickstand doesn’t work well in lap
Honorable mentions:
- DodoCase English Bridle Leather iPad Case
- Mageasy Lift Standing & Folding Folio iPad Case
- SwitchEasy Origami Protective Case
Best iPad keyboard cases
Make your iPad even more useful by upgrading it into a a slim and light notebook computer with a keyboard case.
Apple Magic Keyboard for iPad
Photo: Apple
With its cool cantilever design, the Apple Magic Keyboard is a standout accessory. And it’s the only iPad keyboard that adds a USB-C charging port to the computer. It attaches magnetically which makes it easy to remove.
My review of the case praises the improvements in the latest version, like a glass trackpad and a row of function keys.
Buy from: Amazon
With its cool cantilever design, the Apple Magic Keyboard is a standout accessory. And it’s the only iPad keyboard that adds a USB-C charging port to the computer.
- Gorgeous design
- Add USB-C charging port
- Easy to remove
- High price
Logitech Combo Touch
Photo: Logitech
Those looking for an iPad keyboard case that focuses more on protecting the tablet should consider the Logitech Combo Touch. It comes in two sections so the keyboard flap can be removed while leaving the iPad in a wrap-around case. And the case portion includes a kickstand.
Buy it from: Amazon
Those looking for an iPad keyboard case that focuses on protecting the tablet should consider the Logitech Combo Touch. But that doesn’t mean it’s removable keyboard and trackpad aren’t usable — they are.
- Protective iPad case
- Removable keyboard
- Flexible Kickstand
- Not very usable in a lap
