The OtterBox Statement Series Studio case for iPad Pro or iPad Air finds a brilliant balance of protection and portability. It’s slim and relatively lightweight, but wraps completely around the tablet to save it from disaster. And there’s a built-in adjustable kickstand and Apple Pencil holder, too.
I tested it with my M4 iPad Pro, and haven’t found a wraparound folio case I like better. Here’s why:
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OtterBox Statement Series Studio iPad case review
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
The iPad Pro and iPad Air models are slim and light enough that adding a case to them doesn’t make them bulky. Especially if you choose the right case. Admittedly, some people need the tank-like protection of an OtterBox Defender case, but those who work in an office can usually get by with something sleeker.
The OtterBox Statement Series Studio case for iPad Pro or iPad Air fits the bill. And it’s not light on features, either.
Table of contents: OtterBox Statement Series Studio iPad case review
- OtterBox iPad case that’s slim but loaded
- Weighty matters
- Take a firm stand
- Apple Pencil slot
- OtterBox Statement Series Studio iPad case final thoughts
- Pricing
OtterBox iPad case that’s slim but loaded
Photo: Ed Hardy/Cult of Mac
OtterBox’s Statement Series cases for the 2024 iPad Pro or iPad Air start with a tray that wraps around the back and sides of the tablet. This protects all four corners and sides. The case meets military standards (MIL-STD-810G 516.6), according to OtterBox. This means it protects the iPad during repeated drops onto plywood.
But there are openings for the USB-C ports, cameras, speakers, etc. so it cannot defend the iPad against rain or dust. Really, the OtterBox Statement Series Studio case is ready for the hazards your iPad Pro or iPad Air runs into in an office, not a job site.
These openings include one of the very few flaws in the product: the one for the USB-C port isn’t large enough for Thunderbolt cables. On this type of cable, hardware around the connector is bulkier than typical USB-C cables, and that’s sometimes a problem, like with this case.
The buttons have protective covers. Fortunately, they don’t add much to the pressure necessary to activate the enclosed button.
A flap covers the tablet’s delicate screen. It can be flipped around behind the tablet when not in use. Or remove it completely — it attaches magnetically to one edge of the case. That’s among my favorite features.
Your color options are blue or gray. My review unit is blue, and I like it very much.
Weighty matters
Despite the all-enclosing layer of protection, the OtterBox Statement Series Studio case remains surprisingly svelte. My review unit measures 11.3 inches by 8.9 inches by 0.4 inches. That’s maybe a quarter of an inch larger than my iPad Pro in every dimension.
The weight comes in at 0.9 pounds — noticeable but not onerous. And when you’re not using the flip cover, you can pop it off and save about a quarter of a pound.
Take a firm stand
Photo: Ed Hardy/Cult of Mac
One of the best parts of the OtterBox Statement Series Studio case is the built-in kickstand. It’s always there, ready to prop up the screen so you can work, watch video or play games.
It can support the screen leaning backward about 10 degrees, all the way down to tilted backward roughly 60 degrees. When using the stand, either fold the front flap underneath the tablet or completely remove it — whichever is more convenient.
Apple Pencil slot
Photo: Ed Hardy/Cult of Mac
One of the more unique features of the OtterBox Statement Series Studio iPad case is a slide-out Apple Pencil holder. This securely holds the stylus against the side of the tablet where it charges.
Many iPad cases have a flap to hold an Apple Pencil in place, but I like OtterBox’s sliding design. It’s never in the way when not in use, as flaps sometimes are.
OtterBox Statement Series Studio iPad case review: Final thoughts
OtterBox made its reputation with cases, so it’s no surprise that the Statement Series Studio case for the latest iPads is stellar. The case provides plenty of protection without being too cumbersome to carry. And it has all the extras: a useful stand, a removable flip cover and an Apple Pencil holder.
If it didn’t have that issue with Thunderbolt cables, it would be just about perfect. As it is, this iPad wraparound folio case is truly outstanding.
Pricing
OtterBox makes versions of the Statement Series Studio case for the iPad Pro and iPad Air introduced in 2024. The price depends on the iPad size, not the model. The 13-inch versions cost $129.95 when purchased directly from OtterBox, while the 11-inch variants cost $119.95. OtterBox currently offers discounts between 10% and 25% on purchases.
★★★★★
Buy from: OtterBox
Apple also sells the OtterBox Statement Series Studio iPad cases, and they cost significantly less. At the Apple Store, the 13-inch version costs $99.95 and the 11-inch one goes for $89.95.
Buy from: Apple
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
OtterBox provided Cult of Mac with a review unit for this article. See our reviews policy, and check out more in-depth reviews of Apple-related items.
