Shopping for the best iPad cases is deceptively hard. After all, how do you pick one if there are so many cool options? More importantly, how do you pick one if so many of them look almost exactly the same?
When I tried to buy a new case for my tablet, I found that a lot of them are strikingly similar. Lots of folio-style cases, too. I get it—they're reasonably cute and offer decent levels of protection. But, upon digging in, I found options that will satisfy even demanding users.
Take the Magic Keyboard for the iPad, for example. At $249, it's super pricey, but it transforms your iPad into a productivity beast, making it one of the best Apple deals out there. The Magic Keyboard is also an option for the iPad Pro and the iPad Air, and it's worth considering provided that the price tag doesn't scare you off.
Still, every iPad user deserves a stylish case. Personally, I really like the look of this particular case, and it costs just a bit over $10. I'm probably drawn to the vibrant colors, though, as I tend to prioritize style over functionality. (I can't help myself.)
Want something more sleek? iPad Air owners are in luck, as the Otterbox Symmetry is a mesmerizing pick, and outside of looking good, it's also pretty sturdy.
Whether you're in the market for something that doesn't break the bank or you're willing to go all-out for the perfect iPad accessory, check out the best iPad cases down below for a list of my recommendations.
Best iPad cases
So, you've got yourself an excellent iPad, but why not turn it into a 2-in-1 laptop? You kind of can, at least if you buy Apple's own iPad case that comes equipped with the Magic Keyboard. This will turn your iPad into a productivity machine with the DNA of a MacBook (which happens to be one of the best laptops). Not only does it protect from damage, but you get a chiclet keyboard and trackpad, too.
This is compatible with the iPad 11 (A16) but is also backward compatible with 10th-gen iPads.
Price check: $249 at Amazon
If you want something super affordable that comes in a whole rainbow of colors and styles, the MoKo case for the iPad 11 (A16) and the iPad 10 is your new friend.
It offers a hard backshell to protect your tablet from damage, wear-resistant PU leather exterior, and microfiber lining on the inside to keep the screen safe. It supports touch ID unlocking and has all the required cut outs for ports, buttons, and the camera.
This is a case that takes the concept of a "rugged" tablet to a whole new level. Seymac's case will keep your iPad safe even on the wildest of adventures, and it's also easy to carry thanks to the shoulder strap. You don't have to worry about dropping it when watching something either, as there's a soft strap at the back of the case that makes holding it easier.
This is compatible with the iPad 11 (A16) and the iPad 10 (10.9-inch). For something so sturdy, it's fairly inexpensive, with prices ranging from $40 to $26.
Best iPad Pro cases
If you have the latest iPad Pro 13-inch equipped with Apple's ultra-powerful M4 chip, you might as well make the most of it, and this Magic Keyboard case is perfect for just that. While thin and smooth, it keeps your iPad safe while giving you access to a 14-key function row, a full keyboard with backlit keys, and a glass trackpad with haptic feedback.
This one is only compatible with the iPad Pro 13-inch M4, so we don't recommend buying it for any of the older iPad Pros.
Here's another fancy case with a keyboard, but this one was made by Logitech, and it costs a great deal less. Made for the iPad Pro 13-inch M4, the Logitech Combo Touch Keyboard case lets you turn your iPad Pro into a full-blown productivity beast (which it already is, but this just ramps it up).
There's a flexible kickstand, and the keyboard can be used for typing, sketching, and more; if you don't need it, it's 100% detachable. There's also enough space to store your Apple Pencil without removing the case.
Fortunately, not all cases for the iPad Pro 13-inch M4 are expensive—this one keeps the price at a reasonable $25. Available in a lot of different colors, this case comes with an Apple Pencil holder with support for wireless charging.
Like most Apple iPad cases, it comes with a stand to make your Netflix binge-watching sessions a lot easier on your arms and your neck. It does the job, and at $25, that's all it needs to do.
Best iPad Air cases
Surprise, surprise—you can get a Magic Keyboard for your 11-inch iPad Air (M3), too. While certainly not cheap, the Magic Keyboard elevates your iPad Air to the role of a laptop.
There's a 14-key function row, a glass trackpad, and a USB-C connector that frees up your iPads port for something else.
Phew, the price tag on this one is a relief. At just a bit over $10, this case for the iPad Air (including the M3 and M2 version, as well as the iPad Air 5th and 4th Generation) is one of my favorites in terms of looks.
You can pick from a number of fun styles, including ones that look like a college textbook, and there are even some options for kids.
Otterbox is known for ultra durability, which the Otterbox Symmetry nails with a scratch-resistant design that folds seamlessly and provides top drop protection. This one is super sleek and stylish, comes with several viewing positions, and features magnetic sleep and wake, preserving your iPad's battery life.
This case is compatible with the iPad Air 11-inch (M3 and M2).
Best iPad mini cases
Here's an affordable option sold by Apple (for a change). The Smart Folio for iPad mini (A17 Pro) and the iPad mini (6th generation) is a thin option that still offers ample protection for your tablet.
Available in light violet, denim, charcoal gray, and sage, it's easy on the eyes and hardly adds any weight to your iPad.
This is another simple, but more-than-good-enough option for the iPad mini (A17 Pro) as well as a bunch of other iPad mini models that measure 8.3-inches.
Available in shades ranging from a sleek black to cute pastels, it certainly won't break the bank, as the cheapest options cost a mere $10.
If this doesn't protect your iPad mini from fall damage, will anything ever be rugged enough? Otterbox Defender is a rugged case that focuses on durability, serving up multi-layer protection.
It's compatible with the iPad mini (A17) and the 6th-gen iPad mini. It's thick, and yet doesn't scream "outdoors," so it'll work just fine in a business setting.
How to pick the right case for your iPad
For most people, picking the best iPad case comes down to: "Do I like how this thing looks?" and then just buying it.
If that's you, you're not at all wrong — after all, your iPad most likely goes everywhere with you, so why would you want it to look horrible?
Still, there are a few more things to consider if you want to make the right decision, so let's quickly go over them.
- How sturdy does your case need to be? While most cases offer some kind of protection, rugged and durable options tend to cushion your iPad in the case of a fall more than "folio" style cases. Remember that cases with thick bumpers protect your iPad at all the vulnerable points instead of just keeping the screen intact.
- Do you care about having an Apple Pencil holder? Most cases offer that these days, but it's nice if you don't have to remove the case to charge up your pencil.
- How about turning your iPad into a 2-in-1 laptop (kind of)? The Magic Keyboard is really expensive across the entire iPad lineup, but it does give you a full keyboard and trackpad to work with. If you're using your iPad for productivity and not just entertainment, it's a worthy investment.
- How much do you want to spend? That's a big one. I've found options from $9 to $350, and most users can get away with a case on the lower end of that spectrum, provided they still keep an eye out for their iPad.
Ultimately, weigh in the pros and cons of a rugged case versus something you like the look of. Ideally, you'll find an intersection of all those things on the above list.
