The iPad is a powerful, portable slice of technology that’s easy to bring along with you for entertainment, creation, and work on the go. But the fact that it’s so portable means that you’ll be exposing it to more situations where it might be bumped or dropped. Keep it protected with one of our picks of the best iPad cases out there.
But what makes a great case? Of course, protection is important. But do you need to protect the screen, the edges, the back, or all three? This will depend on how you use your iPad, but generally, all-over protection is ideal. However, you might be willing to sacrifice some amount of shielding in order to have a sleeker, lighter case. You also might slide your iPad and its case into a sleeve for further protection while traveling. Ultimately, that’s up to you, so consider how you use (and potentially misuse) your best iPad.
You’ll also want to consider any added functionality that might be useful for you. Many cases have a folding a stand to prop up your iPad at various angles. Keyboard cases allow you to touch type quickly, but might be overkill if you don’t need that. Some keyboard cases even have a trackpad for a more computer-like experience. If you use an Apple Pencil, you’ll probably want to choose a case that stows it safely (and allows charging, if you use the Apple Pencil 2.)
The best iPad case for you
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While this article divides up the cases by iPad model, many of these cases are also available for other models. We also have articles for each model, such as the best cases for iPad Pro with M2 chip, best iPad Air 5 cases, the best cases for iPad mini 6 and even more specific guides, like the best 10.2-inch iPad heavy duty cases.
This article covers only the iPad models currently sold by Apple: the iPad Pro with M2 chip (both the 11-inch and 12.9 inch sizes), iPad Air 5, iPad 10th generation, iPad 9th generation, and iPad mini 6. If you’re looking for an older model not mentioned in this article, search the site, because it’s likely we have a roundup specifically for that model, too.
The best cases for 12.9-inch iPad Pro with M2 chip
Apple magic
There’s no denying the magic of Apple’s own Magic Keyboard with its gorgeous floating cantilever design. It’s about as close to the laptop experience as you can get, only it offers more flexibility since you can take it apart when you’re not typing. It comes in black or white, and both an 11-inch version (which we reviewed) and a 12.9-inch version.
Horizontal or vertical
Fold this case like origami. You can use it horizontally at two different angles for typing and drawing, or vertically for video calls. The Apple Pencil slot lets you charge your Apple Pencil 2 while it’s stowed.
Slim and tough
This is a slimmer option, and yet it meets military standards for drop protection. The Sleep/Wake folio cover folds into a stand. The Apple Pencil slot can be conveniently closed when not in use, making this a less bulky option and an iMore favorite.
Fanciful
Pro doesn’t have to mean plain. There are plenty of fun designs here, and the price point is quite low. The tri-fold folio cover folds into a stand for both typing and video-watching while the pencil slot supports charging on the go.
Floating case
Do you find yourself wishing your iPad Pro was just a bit higher, so you could draw (or watch videos) more comfortably? Enter the MOFT Snap Float Folio, which props up your iPad at a raised angle for just that.
Sumptuous leather
Encase your iPad pro in this soft, gorgeous leather folio and look like the pro that you are. The folio has Sleep/Wake functionality, folds into a multi-angle stand, and lets you charge your Apple Pencil on the go.
Best cases for the 11-inch iPad Pro with M2 chip
Smart connection
Forget about Bluetooth, Apple has partnered with Logitech and allowed access to the proprietary Smart Connector. This means you can pop in your iPad Pro and start typing right away. The trackpad also makes this combo feel an awful lot like a laptop. We reviewed another model of the Logitech Combo Touch Keyboard Case; luckily it comes in a handful of different sizes to include many iPad models.
Toughie
If you’re frequently dropping your iPad or you just feel you need something a bit more rugged, the Spigen Rugged Armor Pro has you covered. The folio cover folds around to make a stand, and you can stow your Apple Pencil away safely on the go.
Basic sleeve
The plush interior and water-resistant exterior make this a great choice for any iPad; this one comes in a bunch of colors and different sizes so you’re covered no matter what model you use. It’s a nice extra measure of protection, since it’ll fit both an iPad and a snap-on case inside.
Slim and simple
This basic-but-attractive case is similar to the well-reviewed Fintie SlimShell case. While it’s quite slim, it has all of the functionality you expect: Sleep/Wake folio that folds into a stand and Apple Pencil storage/charging. It comes in tons of colors and patterns to suit any taste.
Barely a case
If you really don’t want a case at all, but just a little bit of protection, consider this simple TPU cover from ESR. While just 1.8 millimeters thick, it protects the back and sides while leaving the Apple Pencil charging area free and fully functional.
Many angles
You’re not limited to one or two viewing and working angles here. This handy folio comes in a handful of color options and folds into a stand at eight different angles. You can charge your Apple Pencil or stow it off the charging area in a separate pocket.
The best iPad Air 5 cases
Apple’s folio
Apple makes a version of this case for every iPad model, and it’s one worth considering for its minimalism and elegance. You get front and back coverage plus Sleep/Wake functionality in the folio cover that folds into a stand. Note that it is only attached magnetically, so the iPad edges are not covered at all.
Bargain folio
The Fintie Folio Case is a substantial, book-like case that comes in a variety of colors and patterns to suit any taste. Our review points out that it has an open area for charging the Apple Pencil, Sleep/Wake functionality, and a pocket on the outside for extras.
Bargain keyboard
If you love the Apple Magic Keyboard but don’t want to spend that kind of money, consider ESR’s less expensive keyboard case. The iPad Air attaches magnetically in either portrait or landscape orientation and can be set up at different angles. The seven-color backlit keyboard includes a trackpad as well.
Luxury sleeve
If you’re looking something a little more elevated, consider this beautiful leather and felt sleeve. We reviewed a similar Harber London sleeve and loved the luxurious look and feel. You can choose an all-black look or the tan and black colorway shown here.
Best regular iPad (10th generation) cases
The ultimate tool
The 10th generation base model iPad sports an all-new design, so it’ll need totally different case from previous models. In our Magic Keyboard Folio review, we found it’s quite a fantastic tool to increase productivity on the iPad.
Tough protection
This one meets military drop test standards, with protection for up to 6.6-foot drops. This is especially important if your kids will be using the iPad. Choose from a few color options.
Keep it simple
This sleek, simple case has the Sleep/Wake functionality and folding folio stand you expect. It comes in plenty of color options and just stays out of your way so you can do iPad things.
Mega protection
This heavy-duty case is ultra protective for anyone who’s a little tougher on their tech. With a built-in kickstand, Apple Pencil holder, and screen protector, it’s functional too. Choose from a couple of color options.
Best regular iPad (9th generation) cases
Keyboard plus real protection
Get 6-foot drop protection and a detachable keyboard case. Basically it’s everything you could want in a case, particularly if you’re using it for work or school. You get multi-device pairing and two-year battery life as well.
Carry-all
Another sort of case to consider is a carry-all like this one. It has room to stow your iPad (and a slim case) plus your Apple pencil, charger, and other small accessories.
Simple and sleek
We’ve had great experiences with the ESR Trifold Case on various iPad models. The slim, durable case looks great; the folio cover has Sleep/Wake functionality and folds into a stand. It’s similar to Apple’s but more protective and cheaper.
Child’s play
The iPad’s entry-level price point makes it a good choice for a child. But you’ll still want to protect your purchase before giving it to your kid. This jumbo case comes in plenty of fun colors and has a handle that makes it easy for little ones to carry or prop up to watch a video.
Best iPad mini 6 cases
Rugged protection
With Spigen’s Air Cushion shock-absorption technology, your iPad mini will be protected from bumps and drops. Your Apple Pencil can charge in place. The case isn’t too bulky, and a cutout over the Apple logo let both the logo and the color you choose shine through.
Balanced design
This solid folio-style case is designed to protect from drops of up to four feet and the interior is lined to prevent scratching. It folds neatly into a stand at different angles for different uses. There are several color options from which to choose.
Just the back
If you’re just looking for a case to protect the back of your iPad, you’ll love perusing through CASETiFY’s enormous variety of colorful, fun, and whimsical cases. It’s protective as well, with reinforced corners, but you’ll still want a screen protector for the iPad mini 6 on the front.
Designer’s touch
In our review of the kate spade new york Protective Folio Case for iPad mini, we pointed out that this case is both stylish and protective. It folds into a handy stand for video viewing and has an integrated Apple Pencil sleeve.
Which of the best iPad cases is best for you?
First and foremost, you’ll want to make sure that the case you’re choosing is compatible with your iPad model. Don’t guess and figure it will be “close enough,” a case that doesn’t fit properly or allow your iPad to function properly is no protection at all. Then you just want to choose the level of protection, form factor, and style that works best for you. Remember that many of the styles that you see under one iPad section are also available for other iPad models as well, check the listing to find out. If a particular case is good for one model, it’s good for all of the models.
When it comes to choosing the best case for your needs, it’s always a good idea to keep in mind how you’ll be using your iPad. We’re always partial to Apple designs, like the beautiful cantilevered Magic Keyboard that works with several different models. If you’re going to be using your iPad for work or school, a keyboard design like this with a trackpad is going to help you get the most out of your iPad.
But we also like less expensive designs from tried and true brands like tomtoc, ESR, Spigen, and more. We often use these cases from cheaper brands in our personal lives and they suit us just fine. As long as you get the features you need, whether it’s drop protection, Sleep/Wake functionality, a folding stand, a keyboard, an Apple Pencil holder, or whatever, the price doesn’t always mean a better case. Choose the case that suits your budget and style.