Buying guide for best iPad pro cases
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Written by laura
Updated July 2024
When Apple first announced the iPad Pro, it managed to change the tablet game yet again, with a CPU under the hood that could power a laptop, an incredible custom stylus, and an expanded screen, it was instantly a best-in-class device. Despite being one of the most expensive tablets around, professionals and power users continue to love it, and most agree that it definitely earns its “pro” moniker.
Naturally, if you’re an iPad Pro owner, you’re going to want to protect your investment, and that means buying the right case. Narrow your search options by identifying the features you need and then look for the models that offer the best bang for you buck.
Key considerations
There are literally hundreds of different iPad Pro cases to choose from, so it’s easy to go a little nuts trying to tell them apart. Before you get lost in a sea of search results, ask yourself these questions. They will help you get to the right case more quickly.
What size is your iPad Pro?
The largest iPad Pro has been 12.9 inches from day one, but there have been different variants of the smaller version, ranging from 9.7 to 11 inches. It’s most important to get the right size case for your iPad Pro, so make sure to filter out any options that don’t match yours.
Will you be using a wireless keyboard with your iPad Pro?
If you expect to be doing a lot of typing on your iPad Pro, it’s probably a good idea to get a case that has a built-in keyboard. While you can always buy an external Bluetooth keyboard, that’s another accessory to carry around, so buying a case with a keyboard can be a great way of consolidating. Just keep in mind that these cases are a little pricier.
Will you take your iPad Pro on the go?
Some iPad Pro cases are made of ultra-thin silicone and don’t provide much protection at all, while others are made of thick, durable plastic made to survive intense abuse. Take a moment to think about just how much protection you want. If you just need to keep your iPad Pro safe while you travel, you can get a thinner case, but if you’re going to be sharing your iPad Pro with others or letting small children use it, it’s probably a good idea to buy an ultra-rugged case.
iPad Pro case features
Most iPad Pro cases differentiate themselves based on looks, but there are definitely a few features that make some models worth more than others. Here are the features we consider necessities:
Premium materials
Cases for the iPad Pro are made of everything from silicone to high-end leather, so you’ll have a lot of choices when it comes to your case’s looks. Premium finishes can get expensive, so be sure to pick a case that matches both your style and your budget.
Kickstand
If you enjoy streaming media on your iPad, or if you just need to be able to stand it up to keep it visible on a desk, a kickstand is essential.
Apple Pencil storage
If you’ve got an Apple Pencil, you’ll always want to keep it near your iPad Pro, so get a case that has built-in storage for it. The second-generation Apple Pencil can magnetically charge when attached to an iPad Pro, so if you’ve got one, find a case that allows it to charge in the case.
iPad Pro case prices
Inexpensive
Between $20 and $50 you’ll find basic iPad Pro cases. Cases in this range are perfectly adequate and often even support the iPad Pro’s smart functionality. If you just need a case to keep your screen safe and protect your iPad Pro from dust, you don’t need to spend more than this.
Mid-range
Between $50 and $100, you’ll start to see iPad Pro cases with Bluetooth keyboards, rugged outer shells, or exteriors made from premium materials. If you want a case with a built-in keyboard, or if your iPad Pro is likely to get banged up, you’ll need to invest a little more in a case, but it will be worth it.
Expensive
For between $100 and $300, you can get a designer iPad Pro case, just know that in most cases the extra money is buying you the designer name and that’s about it. If your iPad Pro case needs to match the rest of your designer gear, you’ll need to spend quite a bit. Otherwise, it’s hard to recommend spending this much.
Did you know?
As of 2018, there are two generations of the Apple Pencil, and they’re not the same size. The original has a cap and can only be charged by plugging into a Lightning port. The slightly thinner Apple Pencil 2 magnetically attaches to the iPad and doesn’t have a cap. Make sure to buy a case that works with the Apple Pencil you own.
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Tips
- Double-check that the case is specifically for the type of iPad you have. There have already been several iterations of the iPad Pro in different sizes, so it can be easy to mix up cases and buy the wrong one. It never hurts to be certain before you buy.
- Tape a card with your contact information inside your iPad Pro case. If you leave your iPad Pro somewhere by accident, you want others to be able to return it to you, so make your contact information accessible.
- Buy a case with an adjustable kickstand for watching videos. Watching movies and TV on an iPad Pro can be amazing so long as there isn’t glare on the screen. Light can be hard to control in some environments, so it pays to have a case that can be adjusted to different angles. Some iPad Pro cases have kickstands that can only be set in one or two positions, which is OK, but if you really want to be prepared, go for one that supports at least three.
"If your kids use your iPad Pro, get a case that’s extra rugged or one with a handle for easy carrying. Look for iPad Pro cases labeled as being for kids – a good one can make all the difference!"
STAFF
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FAQ
Q. If I buy an iPad Pro case, do I still need to buy a screen protector?
A. It’s typically a matter of preference, but in most cases, no. Screen protectors are clear pieces of glass or plastic that many users put on their tablet screen to protect it from unwanted dings and other accidental damage. Screen protectors are great if the screen is exposed a lot, like on a smartphone, but most iPad Pro cases cover the screen already. If your iPad Pro is going to be in situations where it could get damaged, or if you simply want to protect your investment, a screen protector can be a good idea. But if you’re mostly going to keep your iPad Pro in its case, it might be overkill.
Q. What are “smart” cases?
A. The iPad Pro works with smart cases, which are cases that can automatically turn the screen on and off when you open or close them. While it might not like sound like a big deal, it’s actually an incredible convenience. With a smart case, you don’t ever have to worry about leaving a movie playing on your iPad or even touching the Wake button.
Q. Why do so many iPad Pro cases have a hole in the back for the Apple logo?
A. For cosmetic reasons. Apple has a lot of brand loyalists, and many want to show off the logo. The logo itself is also a mirrored surface, and while it’s not exactly like having a mirror, it can be fun for reflecting light.
