iPad cases: the best iPad case you can buy

When you buy a gadget you love (think of the Apple iPad slate tablet) you do a lot of things to protect it, the most important is getting the best iPad case, or at least a good cover. That’s more than necessary in today’s world where almost all gadgets feature big gorgeous screens that are a delight to use but a nightmare to clean and keep scratch free. No matter how careful you are there’s no way to keep it intact if you don’t get a sleeve, carrying case or protective screen, even if some tablets, like the iPad, have a Gorilla glass layer.

While an iPad sleeve is good for transport you still need a bag to throw it in. A protective screen is good for the screen but doesn’t do anything to protect the casing of your beloved gadget plus it gets scratched itself and if not applied perfectly it also degrades the image displayed acting like a filter (a bad one in this scenario). A carrying casing is the best iPad case choice when you really like a gadget that accompanies you everywhere and want to preserve it like in the first day ownership.

This post is trying to get to your attention the list of the best cases for iPad with products that are available right now in stores. It’s not a comprehensive list and we’ve definitely haven’t tested them all. We’ll try and present each one of the cases but in the end the choice is yours to make. Almost all models are in a very affordable range and this makes it easier to choose. Don’t stress yourself too much choosing a suited cover for your iPad, but remember that it’s a shame not to get one and ruin your gadget because of just one unlucky incident.

Attention iPad 2 owners: The majority of those non-tight fit cases will fit the newly launched iPad 2, but you won’t have access to the front and back facing cameras and the speaker will be blocked, leading to low sound volume.  A selection of the best iPad 2 cases can be found here

Otterbox iPad Defender series- iPad 1 – 13$, iPad 2 version – 47$

If you want a tough cover to protect your iPad in a serious environment this is the one to get. Otterbox used three layers of tough polycarbonate material to build the Defender series. You know this product is tough by just looking at it. Functionality is very high, as the back of the cover can be used also as a screen protector while you travel. The Otterbox Defender case can also be used as a desk stand in just a few seconds, helping a lot when you want to watch media or type while you’re not at your desk.

All iPad functions remain accessible when in use, and ports are protected in tough environments by silicone plugs. A snap-off portion of the case ensures you can charge/sync your iPad while it sits inside. Otterbox Defender series is the perfect choice for rough use of the tablet, or if you like a cool looking product.

Otterbox Apple iPad Defender case

Marware Eco-Vue – iPad 1 – 10$, iPad 2 – 27$

This on sleeve/carrying sleeve that just looks great and has the ability to shape shift to a carrying sleeve, desk stand, writing stand and mobile grip when you hold the iPad in hand. The interior is made from microfiber so your iPad is cushioned against drops and is also scratch protected. The Eco-leather used by Marware Eco-Vue will not get PETA angry and is healthier for the environment, making it as Eco as the Apple tablet itself. Also you don’t have to pay for it as much as you do for a genuine iPad leather case and you keep all the advantages.

Marware Eco-Vue

Acase Leather Flip Book Jacket/Folio – 15.99$, iPad 2 – 27.95$

The Acase Leather Flip Book Jacket/Folio is another great example of multi purpose iPad agenda housing, made from durable leather construction with secure closure to keep your tablet tight during transportation. Once settled, you can use the case as an iPad stand with multiple viewing angles, so that you can adjust the screen to the desired level. The interior features suede lining for scratch protection. Take a look below on how you can use the Acase Leather Flip Book Jacket/Folio to your advantage:

Acase Leather Flip Book Jacket/Folio

Targus Hughes Leather Portfolio Slipcase – 30$ (works with both iPads)

[works with iPad2] - If you want to enter a room in style there’s no better way to do it by wrapping your iPad into the Targus Hughes Leather Portfolio Slipcase. Not only it looks great buy it feels great thanks to the durable oiled tanned premium leather exterior. Targus is so confident with its specially designed slipcase that it offers lifetime warranty. They also say it will protect your iOS tablet from scratches and will secure it during transport thanks to the magnetic secured closure. I have to admit it looks damn sexy and the price is not prohibitive, especially for a vintage iPad cover look.

Targus Hughes Leather Portfolio Slipcase

CaseCrown Vertical Multi Pocket Messenger Bag – 32$

[suited also for iPad 2] - If you ask me an iPad messenger bag is the most elegant way to travel with your gadgets. It’s easy to carry, casual looking (thanks to its vertical design) and offers plenty of space within multiple pockets to store all your gadgets and precious belongings. The CaseCrown Vertical Multi Pocket Messenger Bag offers a separate laptop/netbook/tablet slot with excellent padding and secure velcro closure so that the most important piece stays safe. So it’s not just a travel messenger bag for iPad. Other stuff can be carried inside the front, back, interior, side and flap pockets.

CaseCrown Vertical Multi Pocket Messenger Bag

Aida Keycase Folio Deluxe – 60$, 56$ – iPad 2

[works with iPad2] - Aida Keycase Folio Deluxe is a different kind of case for iPad, one that features an intergrated Bluetooth keyboard that makes the difference betweeen trying to type on the virtual keyboard of the iPad and working with large chunks of text you write at the same speed as you do on a hardware keyboard. The cover itself is a bonus and helps with easily carrying the iPad + keyboard combo. Being wireless, you don’t need any cables to maker it work, it charges via an USB cable with ease and takes at least 45 hours to deplete. If you close it to preserve power it will automatically reconnect to the iPad once turned on.

Now back to the actual product, which si made of leather. It also acts like a stand, helping you set up a proper viewing angle while working. When you travel, a magnetic clasp makes sure the screen cover stays shut and the iPad is held nicely in place. I know that 50 bucks seems a little too much, but considering that you get a carrying case, a stand and a wireless keyboard you’ll see that the added value is worth the price, adding to a nice cover, case and accessory all-round kit.

Aida Keycase Folio Deluxe

XGear Traveler Folio – 40$

Traveler Folio Case for iPad

Before dismissing this one for its pretty high price tag take a look at it and let me just tell you what is it made from: rugged ABS front cover with carbon fiber design. That’s right, it’s a hard cover protective case with a carbon fiber finish. It’s not carbon fiber, as it would cost a few hundred bucks but is as close as it gets to a Formula 1 monopost without the astronomical price.

The XGear Traveler Folio is not just nice to hold in hand but is also practical, featuring special pockets for your business cards and travel documents. It has all you need in a sleek and slim package. You can even use it as a stand for your iPad, while sitting on a desk and typing with a wireless keyboard detached from it for example (find one here). [Read our Xgear Folio full review]

Mivizu neoprene cover – 12$

Mivizu case neoprene cover

[iPad 2 compatible] - As with CaseCrown, Mivizu is a type of neoprene sleeve but reinforced to sustain more damage. It also comes in many color combinations: green, blue, pink for the ladies, red, purple and of course black.

Like any respectable sleeve, Mivizu comes with dual zipper for fast access and external pocket (also with zipper) for storing other accessories and smaller gadgets, not iPad related. An elastic strap holder completes the package and allows you to either carry it by hand or store it in another backpack.

USA Gear Protective Carrying bag – 14.99$

USA Gear protective carrying bag

[works with iPad2] - The USA Gear protective carrying bag for iPad might be a little more than what you’re looking for as it resembles a laptop bag (with smaller overall dimensions to fit the 9.7 inch screen of the iPad). It has a FlexWall that can be arranged any way you please and is secured by velcro.

It allows you to safely transport not only the iPad itself but also other accessories like keyboards, docking stations and such. The outside shell is made from nylon that can protect and guard the Apple tablet from drops, bumps, scrapes and water. Add to this an outer pocket that can accommodate smaller gadgets and you get a rugged case for you favorite tablet.

Bubble sleeve Pink, Green or Black – 20$

Bubble sleeve

[iPad 2 compatible] - Wow, 50 bucks for a sleeve? Yes, but not any kind of sleeve, but one made from EVA-molded, rigid sleeve that provides more secure protection than a neoprene sleeve. It’s basically your average protective case for iPad on steroids. Each side contains shock absorbing rubber bumpers to hold and protect your iPad even from 3-4 feet tall drops on a hard floor.

Even if it’s tough to get it out unprotected from the Bubble Sleeve, the two zippers allow for fast access when needed. Don’t worry about the pink hue on the picture on the right as you’ll be able to buy on also in Black and Green for the same amount of money.

Belkin Pleated Sleeve – 27.3$

Belkin Pleated Sleeve

[iPad 2 compatible] - Belkin is one of the oldest peripheral manufacturers that has a special line of products designed to go with the Apple lineup. It’s no wonder they also have a protective sleeve for iPad, which is a little more than you are used to thanks to it’s pleated surface that’s meant to protect your tablet in situations of accidental drops plus they provide more cushion when housed inside your backpack.

The Belkin Pleated Sleeve is meant to carry your iPad plus all your accessories like the charger. The sleeve is made from made of durable neoprene and can be hand-wash with mild soap and water. For business oriented people it’s also available in Black for the same price.

Protec Soft-Shell Eva Foam – 30$

Protec Soft-Shell Eva Foam

[iPad 2 compatible] - This is a more advanced case (from construction materials standpoint), and expensive at the same time. It’s a sleeve with secure velcro enclosure, plush velvet interior lining and water resistant ballistic nylon exterior that is also scratch resistant. It’s the perfect heavy duty carrying sleeve and also comes in black if you’re more like the business guy.

Personally I would have liked to see other color variants but unfortunately that’s not the case, at least for now. As a side note, the Protec Soft-Shell Eva Foam can also accommodate a Kindle DX eBook reader.

Marware SportShell 4-in-1 – 5.8$

This is another great example of good design combined with extensive features like a 4-in-1 convertible shape that makes the iPad case suitable as shell, photo frame, desk stand and hand strap. The smooth, rubberized paint finish makes it durable and good looking at the same time. And you want to keep the looks of a case you paid 60 bucks for. And you get the unique design as a bonus.

Marware SportShell Convertible for iPad

TrendyDigital WaterGuard Waterproof – 19.99$

TrendyDigital WaterGuard Waterproof

[iPad 2 compatible] - This is definitely something different, the WaterGuard Waterproof Case for iPad from TrendyDigital is not just a carrying bag and protective bag against dust and scratches but also the last line of defense against geek’s worst nightmare: liquids which can be poured by mistake onto his beloved gadgets.

The way it works is pretty much the same as a self sealing bag: you put your table in and continue using it in environments you wouldn’t normally do. That’s it. Don’t expect to be admired when using one, but expect to be protected in the most unusual moments, so you might still need a carrying sleeve, but it’s the best choice if you plan on using it no matter what your common sense says.

Even if this product is not particularly beautiful, it’s better to look bad and functional than nice and not working, right?

DermaPad Leather Case with Stand – 22.46$

This is another case of a multifunction iPad accessory, that doubles as a protective carrying sleeve and iPad stand altogether. A built in stand for watching videos or giving presentations is included from factory. Add to this the genuine leather cover and you get a functional and good looking product. A screen protector is also included to protect the screen against scratches. Cut out openings ensure all controls remain accessible. Take a look below at the pictures and see how the DermaPad iPad Leather case with stand looks like in the instances you will use it. As a bonus, it comes with an integrated screen protector and a Derma Pad Clip Pen.

DermaPad Ipad Leather Case with Stand

Targus Crave Slipcase – 28.5$

[iPad2 compatible] - This type of bag  is probably the best if you want a model just for carrying your iPad and its accessories, nothing more (there’s no place for anything else actually). It looks like a laptop hand bag, it’s smaller and more stylish thanks to its business design. Targus Crave Slipcase is made from water resistant fabric with stain guard coating, so you no need to worry about bad weather or getting your tablet soaked wet.

If you’re clumsy the protective double foam padding will come in handy during ‘rough handling’ of the iPad. We know it’s a little too expensive, but if protection is what you seek you can’t go wrong with Targus Crave Slipcase.

Targus Crave Slipcase

Piel Frama Premium Leather with MAGNETIC Closure – 89$

[iPad 2 compatible] - If you want spare no expense for a genuine leather iPad case then take a look at Piel Frama Premium Leather Case with MAGNETIC Closure, black color with tan lining. It’s made from handcrafted Spanish leather. Sure it’s expensive but the feel you get from touching it and the magnetic enclosure system ensures dead easy operation and make this one a collector’s item, not just the best iPad case.

As many leather agendas, the Piel Frama also can be used as a stand, with two angles, one for reading and one for typing/working. Special measured cutouts provide easy access to all buttons and ports so you won’t ever need to take out your iPad to charge or sync it If you want to purchase it as a gift it’s important to know that it comes attractively packaged in Piel Frama gift box. This is one of the best iPad cases and there’s nothing stopping you from buying it (maybe except price).

Piel Frama Premium Leather with MAGNETIC Closure

Official Apple case – 34$

Just like the iPad itself, it seems this is by far the most stylish case to date. I expect it to be expensive, at least 50$, as Apple isn’t known for its mercy on consumer wallets, but it’s also more complex than other models, featuring book cover style with multipurpose positions that help you use the Apple tablet better for typing (it changes the inclination angle of the screen by 15-20 degrees) and media watching (makes the iPad stand vertically on any flat surface). Special cut openings make sure it doesn’t cover tablet’s ports.

Official Apple iPad case

Be sure that once iPad gains solid ground in the market (it’s already the best sold tablet) there will be even more top best iPad cases so don’t forget to bookmark this page or subscribe to our RSS or Email Newsletter as I’ll update this article with further product once they are announced.

Other iPad top products articles:

• Best accessories
• Hard cases
• Leather cases
• Top stands
• Cool looking cases