Best iPad/iPad 2 case – cool covers&cases for Apple iPad

Planning to get an Apple iPad in the near future? Well, that’s a good choice, this device really provides an amazing experience for web-browsing and consuming all kind of multimedia content. However, having such a big display and being so slim makes it kind of fragile, thus proper protection measures for it are needed if you want to keep it in good shape for a longer time.

That’s why in this post I’ve gathered a couple of the best iPad and iPad 2 cases and covers I could find online right now. There are many types, from the official case made by Apple, to leather and neoprene ones from famous brands like Belkin, Griffin or iFrogz and to screen protectors and cool waterproof covers you’ll love when going outside with your gadget. You can see the top options for each of those in the categories below.

Important: This post contains a mix of our top picks on first and second generation iPad cases. There are a bunch of different options based on what you might need, so scroll down towards the end of the post to see all the available picks.

Update: This post was significantly updated on October 24th 2011. Minor updates will follow periodically, but I recommend clicking the links next to each product for up-to-date prices and details on availability.

iPad folios and leather covers for iPad and iPad 2

The iPad is for sure an expensive and fancy gadget, so perhaps the best way to protect it is to dress it in a fancy leather case, right? In this section I’m going to present you some of the best such leather covers for the iPad and further in this post you’ll find other types of cases too. See the lines below for details.

Zagg LeatherSkin for iPad 2 – from $19.99

This one is not actually a case, but it’s a fancy protection accessory i like a lot. The Leather Shield is in fact a skin meant to protect the back of your iPad, but unlike others, it’s made of high-quality genuine leather and does not add bulk to the sleek shape of the tablet. Of course, it adheres perfectly to the device and comes with excellent build quality quality, but ads a bit of sophistication to your gadget.

It is available in many colors and different versions (each with different designs), with prices starting at $19.99 and going up to $49.99 for the authentic leather versions. More details are available via this link, with info, pics and videos. You just have to select iPad 2 from the configurator on that page to get all the options available for this tablet.

Oh, and you can always pack this leather skin with the Zagg Screen protector (one that i totally recommend – see details below) for a complete protection solution (not against shocks though).

Zagg LeatherSkin - fancy leather covers for iPad 2, with tens of options to choose from

Bear Motion iPad 2 Folio with stand - $59.99 $39.99 w/ Shipping included

Bear Motion might not say much as a brand, but their iPad 2 case is currently the best sold and the most popular (based on reviews and marks) leather case for Apple’s tablet on Amazon.com, and that speaks highly of its quality.

Bear Motion case for iPad 2

We’re talking about a standard leather folio that can act as a horizontal/vertical stand as well, so it holds and protect the tablet, while allowing you to use it easier during your everyday tasks. There are a bunch of similarly designed cases on the market, what makes this one better is the quality of the leather used for the exterior (high grain 100% genuine cowhide leather), the fact that the interior is also padded in soft leather and its overall reliability.

All these for around 60 bucks might seem high, but this particular case is now available on Amazon with a 33% discount and Free Shipping included, so definitely an offer your should at least check out. More details, including pics, reviews and the option to buy one of these cases, via this link.

Toblino 2 slim-folio and multi-angle stand for iPad 2 - $49.95 $39.99

Many of you probably love the sleek shape of the 2nd generation iPad and would love to get some protection accessories for it, but hate those that add bulk to its body (like most do). Here’s where this cover called Toblino 2 comes in play, one of the sleekest leather folios available right now for the iPad 2.

Now, this is a not a tough case, but will be able to protect your iPad from scratches and fingerprints, while offering it a better grip that would be handy during everyday use. While the exterior is made from black high-quality leather, the interior is padded is soft microfiber to keep your gadget safe. And besides protecting your tablet, tis one will also act as an adjustable stand, with multiple viewing angles.

The Toblino 2 case retails for around 50 bucks, but you can get it online for a little bit less. See this link for extra details, reviews from buyers and pictures.

Toblino 2 slim leather-folio

rooCase leather sleeve for iPad 2, in red/pink/black – from $59.99 $29.99

RooCase offers a bunch of different iPad 2 cases and all of them are quite popular amongst buyers. My personal favorites are their convertible folios and executive portfolios with zipper closing, both made form genuine leather and with exceptional care for details.

The convertible leather cases comes in a bunch of colors but I feel that the red one is extremely stylish, and besides protecting your iPad, it also comes with 24 angles adjustable stand. More details about it via this link.

The leather portfolio is meant for those traveling a lot with their iPads and includes a standard leather case without a folio for the screen, and also an exterior enclosure closed with zippers, as you can see in the picture below. So definitely a very nice option. More details about it via this link.

Premium leather cover from rooCase

Snugg iPad 2 affordable leather cover - $29.99

This is actually the case I personally use on my iPad 2 and you can read more about it in my dedicated review also posted here on the site, which includes photos, video and a comparison with a cheaper leather cover.

Acase Leather Flip Folio for 1st generation iPad – $79.99 from $16.99 w/ Free Shipping

For months the most popular iPad cover on Amazon.com , this Acase Folio is a very solid cover option if you’re looking for something fancy, but also affordable, especially since it is now heavily discounted. The case is made from leather, comes with a tight closure and can be also used as a stand. Works with the 3G or Wi-Fi only iPad and comes in a couple of different colors, with prices starting from around 20 bucks.

And of course, it managed to score very high marks and excellent reviews with those who already bought it, very few having anything to complain about it. See the link for more details, reviews and the option to buy one yourself.

Acase Folio - one of the most appreciated leather cases for iPad

AYL 3-in-1 leather folio cover

AYL premium case for iPad 1 and iPad 2 – $69.99 $34.99

This case is another good leather jacket option for your iPad. Comes with a medium grained texture and it is made from genuine leather with contrasting stitches, while the interior is lined with a softer material. It managed to score good reviews from buyers and comes with a decent price, considering its overall quality and the fact that it can be used as a stand, both for typing or for watching movies.

However, viewing angles are not adjustable and you can only get this one in Black, but if you’re fine with these aspects, than this case is a best pick. More details and review via this link.

AYL also offers an improved 5-in-1 slim leather jacket for the iPad 2, going for only $29.99 these days, with a huge discount and Shipping Included. You might want to check that one out via this link.

Ctcstore leather jacket for 1st iPad tablet - $69.99 $11.00

This CTCstore accessory is more than a standard leather case, but also a great stand for your iPad, with several different viewing angles, thus can be used for typing, watching movies, etc. The exterior is made of high quality and durable leather, while the interior consists of a soft microfiber, meant to protect your gadget and hold it in place (with the help of some adjustable straps). The picture below will tell you more about this leather jacket and you should also click the link on its name for more details, photos, reviews and the options to buy it (with that discount, this cover is a steal for sure)

Ctcstore leather jacket

You can find more high-quality leather cases for the 1st generation iPad in this other post.

iPad rugged cases, plastic, rubber and silicone covers

Rugged silicone/rubber covers are meant to protect the device during everyday use. Usually offer a thin film screen protector and a hard protective surface that encases the rest of the body. They will make the device somewhat bulkier, but will also offer better protection that leather cases do.

Bellow you can find what we consider the best cases in this section right now.

Otterbox Defender touch case for iPad 2 & iPad 1 – from $89.99 $58.99

When speaking about toughness and reliability, Otterbox protection accessories are the top of the class. They are pricey, but they are simply top notch and probably your best picks if you want a rough case that will protect the device inside as good as such an accessory can.

The Defender combines a tough plastic inner shell with a silicone exterior layer for great impact protection. It also comes with a screen thin film layer and a detachable screen cover than acts like a stand when using your iPad. It’s not meant to protect your device from water though and offers no rubber covers for the buttons and ports.

The Defender is available for the first generation iPad and has managed to get excellent reviews from buyers.See details about it, prices and reviews via this link.

However, the 2nd generation iPad Transformer seems to get mixed reviews, many not appreciating the fact that it leaves the speaker on your tablet completely exposed, and also the corners of the screen when the front-protection is clipped on. So better check for more info here to see if that’s the case you really want.

Otterbox Defender for iPad 2, with screen clip

Otterbox Commuter for iPad 1- from $69.99 $34.99

The Commuter is OtterBox’s lighter series, meant to provide protection without adding too much bulk to the sleek size of the iPad (as in, it’s not a super bulky and super rugged case like the Otterbox Defender). Still, it is solid, combining the roughness of the Defender with some soft silicone parts, plus some rubber covers for ports and buttons, so they will be protected when not used (that’s something few other cases offer). It also includes a thin film protector for the sreen.

All in all, the OtterBox Commuter is a tough nut to crack. And based on its quality, features and the reviews received from specialist and owners, it is well worth its pretty steep price tag. More details are available via this link. You should know that the Commuter is only available for the 1st generation iPad for now.

Otterbox Comutter - rough cover, for extra protection

Speck CandyShell for iPad 1 – $49.99 $18.99

Speck’s CandyShell line of accessories for Apple products is famous and now they have a case for the iPad too. The CandyShell is a hard shell case with soft, rubberized interior lining. So the gadget inside is protected. Plus, you do get access to all ports and connectors, but when not used, there are some rubber covers for these, just like on the expensive Otterbox covers. There’s also a flipable back bay so you can connect the iPad to the dock or the keyboard offered by Apple, without removing it from the case.

All in all, the Speck CandyShell is a great hard-case for the iPad and this is also proved by the very good reviews scored with owners. It is available in Black or Purple for the moment and with a 70% discounted price, for Amazon.com, plus Free Shipping. So a great deal.

Speck Candyshell case for 1st generation iPad

Acase hard-case SmartCover companion for iPad 2 - $34.99 $9.00

Acasa clip-on hard case

If you’re using a SmartCover to protect the screen of your iPad it would probably be wise to also get a hard-case to protect the back of your gadget, and the Acase SmartCover companion is one of your best picks.

It comes in black or with a clear finish, snaps tightly to the body of your iPad and it is very slim. Won’t offer much protection against bumps and shocks, but will keep your tablet safe from scratches, fingerprints or smudges.

Such a hard-case usually goes for 20 bucks or more, but this one is actually significantly discounted, so you’d better check out more detailsabout it if you’re into such iPad 2 protection accessories. Careful though, while it works with any iPad 2 versions, it will not fir the 1st generation iPad.

Screen protectors for iPad 2 and original iPad

The iPad comes with a big 9.7 inch display you’re going to use all day long. While resistant to scratches and fingerprints, it would be wise to protect it anyway, and the best way to do this is use thin film screen protectors.

There aren’t many options available on the market right now for such protection accessories, my favorites based on specs and prices would be these ones:

• Zagg InvisibleShield for iPad 2 and original iPad – from $29.99 (non-glare version goes for $34.99) – I’ve been using the InvisibleShield for my iPod Touch for years now and i can say for sure this is the best in its class. Tough and ultra-reliable, the Zagg Shield will not scratch. It is made of army graded thin film and comes with lifetime warranty (as in, you’ll only change it when you get bored with it or when it will start peeling around corners – based on my experience on the iPod Touch, that happened after more than 6 months of using it pretty much daily ).

It is very easy to get on your device, although requires some attention, and it won’t affect the sensitivity of the screen like other screen-covers do. And yes, it is expensive, but it’s a Zagg, and I’m pretty sure you’ve all heard just how good their products are.

One more thing, the Zagg Shield also comes as a Full Body Armor, with protection for display but also for the bottom aluminum casing, both for $39.99 , available for the 1st generation iPad but also for the new iPad 2. If I were you I would get these both and then get my iPad inside a proper leather case for extra protection and egonomics.

Zagg Full Body Armor - ultra tough and with lifetime warranty

Also see the clip below to see how strong this screen protector actually is. And of course, it will not protect the iPad from shocks, but it will from just anything else, including scratches, dust, stains, etc.

There are a bunch of extra options you can find below (note that front-face thin film protectors are compatible with both iPad generations, but protectors made for the older model will cover the front-facing camera, so I’d recommend actually getting dedicated screen protectors according the the iPad you own):

• Belkin screen overlay for 1st generation iPad - $9.50 - high quality film protector from a known brand, famous for their Apple accessories, this durable clear overlay protects the screen from scratches and everyday usage-signs while being easy to replace.
• Acase screen protector for 2nd generation iPad - $14.99 - if you don’t want to spend 30 bucks for the Zagg Shield, this 3 pieces set of screen protectors for iPad 2 are probably your next best option. Easy to get one, very affordable and with good review from previous buyers, this pack is definitely something you should check out if you’re looking for such display protection for your iPad 2.
  

More details are available in this post about the best iPad screen protectors.

Keyboard Cases for the Apple iPad and iPad 2

If you want to use your Apple tablet for creating text, then you will definitely need a keyboard for that. You have two options: buy a wireless keyboard and place your iPad on a stand at home, or even better, pick one of these new cases that also include a wireless keyboard so you can have it with you wherever you might go. Below you will find a couple of good options for such accessories.

ZAGGmate case with keyboard, for both generations of iPads – $99 (see details)

Also called the Logitech Keyboard Case by Zagg, this is probably the best portable wireless keyboard you can get for your iPads right now. Works with the first and the second generation iPad (however, there are different versions for each of the two generations) and provides an excellent method for you to input text.

Keyboard is very easy to turn on and off and keys are properly sized, with enough space between them and pace to be comfortably used everyday. It is after all made by Logitech and they are known for excellent such accessories. The iPads can be attached to these cases when transporting them, and once you reach your destination you just have to take them out, place them in vertical or horizontal position on your keyboard-case and just start typing.

More details about these cases are available by accessing this link, as well as reviews and some extra pictures.

Zagg Keyboard case works with both iPad generations

Kensington Bluetooth keyboard leather cover - $99.99 $62.94

Kensington iPad cover with integrated keyboard

The biggest problem with the Zagg case, besides its hefty price tag, is the fact that it leaves the back of your iPad unprotected. Thus, if you want another option for a good keyboard case, this one from Kensington should be on your list as well. It is a leather cover that also holds a Bluetooth keyboard inside. It is comfortable to use and overall OK, although typing experience will be poorer than what you get on the Logitech keyboard above. Still, the Kensington pack is significantly cheaper and this should have a massive impact on the final decision.

More details, pictures and reviews are available via this link, so go ahead and click it if you find the Kensington keyboard cover interesting. Bear in mind though that this only works with the latest generation iPad 2, but there is also a version designed to work with the original iPad, and it’s actually cheaper than the new model.

iPad 2 and iPad 1 zipper cases and sleeves

The zip iPad covers are usually made of nylon, neoprene or suede and provide enough cushioning for safely transporting the iPad in most conditions. The ones presented here will also work with the iPad 2 and are ideal when traveling and need just a bit of extra protection for your tablet.

In fact, a combo between one of these and a display protector would make an almost bullet proof security pack for your Apple gadget. There are many types of zip cases available already and more are to come. All the big names will offer such an iPad case, but for now here are the ones considered best and recommended:

• CaseCrown Suede Zip Sleve – $35.49 $11.49 – right now my favorite case in terms of looks and price/features rapport, this CaseCrown sleeve comes with a premium faux suede exterior and scratch resistant interior to provide great protection for your iPad. Has a zipper, so access to the interior space is facile and also offer an exterior pocket where you can store your iPad’s accessories. It’s also available in many different cool colors and comes with a great price (now greatly discounted). Surely a case you must check out.

CaseCrown faux suede case = good price/features rapport

• The Belkin Max Sleeve for iPod- $39.99 from $16.99 – pretty expensive but backed up by the Belkin name, this neoprene zipper case is one of the best existing sleeves at providing ultimate protection for your iPad, with a solid cushioning surface and reinforced panel for extra-screen protection. Will be available in a couple of different colors. This is just one of the first Sleeves Belkin prepares for this Apple gadget, more are to come in the near future, with extra features.

• CaseCrown memory foam pouch – $44.99 $20.99 – this case uses the shock absorbing memory foam technology to protect your iPad, while being slim and light. It’s available in many many different options, from classic black to stylish pink and offers extra features like internal support bands and extra pocket on the side, for accessories. And it’s now discounted, so definitely an option to consider.

The Belkin Max Sleeve (left) and the CaseCrown Memory Foam pounch (right)

iPad/iPad 2 carrying cases and bags

Last but not least, you get these carrying bags for the iPad (and they will work just fine with the iPad 2 as well). In fact, they have the advantage of being able to fit different similar-sized devices and come with lots of extra pockets and storage options for accessories and other gadgets (phone, MP3 player, charger, etc). There are quite a few options available, but for a compact device like the iPad, I only chose to recommend you guys these two best iPad messenger-type bags:

• CaseCrown vertical bag – $69.99 from $29.99 – a premium carrying bag for your Apple iPad and iPad 2, this CaseCrown accessory not only does a great job at protecting your device, but also looks great and is very customizable. It can fit any gadget up to 10.2 inches big (so even a netbook) and comes with lots of extra storage room. And, as you can see from the picture, is not bulky at all. All these, plus the big discount offered by Amazon for it right now, make this CaseCrown messenger bag an option you should definitely consider.

CaseCrown vertical messenger bag

• Targus Crave Slipcase - $34.99 $33.99 – if you want something cheaper, this Targus arm-bag specially designed for the iPad would be a nice pick. The exterior is made of a water resistant fabric which has been coated against scratches, dust and stains. The interior uses double foam padding to protect your iPad even from shocks and drops. More details by clicking the link on this bag’s name. All in all though, this slipcase is a great choice for good money, as long as you don’t mind the fact that you can’t carry it on your shoulder.

Targus Crave SlipCase

Protection accessories bundles for the Apple iPad

Buying accessories in bundles is always a great idea, as it helps you save money. That’s why here you’ll find some of the bundles we and other buyers considered worth taking a look at.

For the moment, I could only find this nice set of 20 different accessories meant for the iPad 2. Scored good reviews with buyers and comes with a nice overall price, but I’m pretty sure buying a proper and more expensive iPad cover is still the better choice here.

iPad waterproof protection accessories

Waterproof cover for the iPad

Waterproof cases for the Apple iPad are hard to find and in most cases are not great looking. However, there are options, like the TrendyDigital WaterGuard Waterproof Case. As you can see from the picture, it’s more like a bag than a case, but will be perfect when you’ll want to use your iPad at the beach, pool or during a cruise. So not an everyday protection accessory, but ideal if you’re planning to get your iPad wet.

The surface of the bag is made of a soft clear material and the upper closure is a double ziplock one that folds over itself a couple of times and uses and overflap fixed with two plastic snaps. So there’s no way water can get inside, but that doesn’t mean you should throw the iPad in the pool, this case is made to protect it from accidental splashes and rain drops.

Also, it comes with an adjustable nylon cord so you can hang it around your neck and it will work just fie with your 2nd generation iPad as well

Luxury iPad cases and iPad 2 covers

With such a fancy gadget, I’ll bet you’d want an exclusive, even luxurious, cover for your device. Hence, the protection accessories you are going to find below, only a few of these fancy covers, but perhaps the best available at the moment.

They are all made of genuine high quality leather and most of them are hand-crafted by skilled artisans. This way, they are not only unique and very good looking, but also reliable in time. In fact, genuine leather products, if treated the right way and properly maintained, can be with you for a lifetime.

I’m sure I grabbed your attention, so better take a look at the products below.

Vaja iVolution series

• Vaja cases for Apple iPad – from $100 to $300 – Well, yes, as you can see, these covers are expensive. But there are a couple of good reasons for that. First, these are by far the best looking cases I ever saw. Then, the leather used for them is selected full grain cowhide from bovines in Argentina. Each hide is inspected for the tiniest imperfections and only those skins that pass all the tests get to be used on these cases. Also, products are handcrafted and Vaja come with a name in this field, being one of the most notorious leather accessories producers in the world.

They offer in fact a couple of different cases for the iPad. Entry lines, like the Vaja iVolution model, come with protection for the front and the back, with the clipable front side being easy to remove and attach to the back when using he device. These ones go for around $100 , but if you look for Limited series like the brown Mamut Suela line, they can get more expensive.

My favorite Vaja case goes for $300, but besides the great construction and top materials, it also can be used as an iPad stand, with two different viewing positions. Details about each of them by clicking those links on the prices.

Vaja iPad case - also a stand

• Piel Frama iPad covers – from $79 – Piel Frama are other notorious producers in this field. They are based in Spain and their products are also top notch in every way, but more affordable than the Vajas. Piel Frama covers come in lots of different finishing options and colors, from plain leather to crocodile or ostrich skin designs and can also be used as stands. More about these in my other post about Piel Frama iPad cases here on the site.

Various designs and colors available for the Piel Frama cases

• Targus Hughes slipcase for iPad 1 and iPad 2 – $59.99 $30.99+ Free Shipping – this one is fancy. If you’re a business man and look for an iPad, this case is a must for you. Build quality is as high as can be, the exterior is made from oil tanned premium leather and the soft interior is perfectly made for the iPad. You also get a nice magnetic lock and all kind of compartments for your other accessories. As you can see, this is more a carrying folio for your gadget, so you will also need a screen protector when using it. But for its looks, reliability and the fact that it comes with Lifetime warranty, it is well worth the 60 bucks it costs. See the link on this case’s name for more details, reviews and the option to buy one.

Targus Hughes slipcase

The official iPad case and SmartCover

Last but not least, we have the official iPad case from Apple to mention in here. It will cost around $49.99 $13.95 and is a folio, but not a standard one, a folio with integrated screen thin-film protector and the ability to transform itself into a stand, as you can see in the picture below (vertical for watching movies or horizontal for typing).

However, from the reviews posted by people who already bought it, surface quality is not the best: feels like rubber and is prone to fingerprints and smudges. Plus, the iPad doesn’t seem so well protected in it. That’s why general opinion is that for 30 bucks, you can get better both in terms of style and durability.

The official Apple iPad Case with extra functions, but expensive

The Smart Cover for iPad 2

While that case was specifically designed for the 1st generation iPad, the 2nd one came with an innovation: the SmartCover, a thin protecting cover for the screen, fixed in place with magnets and available in leather or polyurethane options. Besides protecting the screen, it can fold over and act as a vertical/horizontal stand.

Personally I’m not a fan of the SmartCover as I feel it provides poor protection for the iPad, especially since it leaves the back completely exposed. So the official SmartCover is definitely not worth the money in my eyes, especially since it sells for 30 to 50 bucks.

There are however a bunch of replica such covers with more affordable price tags and if you like the idea of such a cover, you could check some of them out via this link. Also, if you do go for such a cover, I’d definitely get a back hard-cover as well for the bottom part of the iPad, from this list of SmartCover companion cases.

What would i buy

All the protection accessories presented here are top notch and recommended by specialist, but also by the reviews received from those who already own them. I’ve tried to cover all existing types of such iPad cases so each and one of you could find anything suitable in here.

Now, from all of them, my ideal protection kit would consist of a Full Body Zagg Shield, to protect the body from dust and scratches, plus an actual case, for easier carrying around and in order to keep it safe from bumps and possible shocks. I’m not the type of guy that takes his computer on the road, but I do get business meetings quite often, thus my choice would be one of those fancy leather cases presented above.

Right now. for my iPad 2 I use a Snugg leather folio that also acts as a stand, plus a Zagg InvisibleShield non-glare protector for the display and I’m actually completely satisfied with this setup.

Conclusions

And that’s about it with this list of best iPad 2 and original iPad cases, cool covers and protection accessories. Like you can see, this is not a top, it’s a list where you should be able to find the right product for you, according to your taste and needs. If you have yet to find anything interesting in here, you could also take a look at this list of best selling iPad covers on Amazon, daily updated with new products.

Of course, in time this post will get updated with more devices, as more high quality iPad protectors will enter the market. Also, prices might vary, so be sure to click the link on each product’s name for the up-to-date ones.

So stay tuned for updates and don’t hesitate to post your comments if you have any suggestions or questions.

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Tags: Apple iPad, Apple iPad accessories, cases

Last updated: October 27, 2011 | Published: September 1st, 2011 | See the comments or add yours!