If you've splashed out on an iPad, you're going to want one of the best iPad cases to help protect it. Some cases double as a stand, which is great if you use your tablet to draw or watch films and TV, and some even have keyboards to transform your iPad into a mini laptop.
There's a lot to consider when choosing an iPad case; its functions, its sturdiness, the design, and its value - we've taken all of these factors into consideration when compiling the list below. We also have a guide specifically to the best iPad Pro cases for more options.
We've also reviewed other iPad accessories including the best iPad keyboards and the best iPad stands. If you've yet to buy your tablet, check out our guide to Apple's iPad generations to find the right one for you, and make sure to check for the best iPad deals.
The best iPad cases available today
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The best Apple iPad case
+ Fits perfectly
+ Made by Apple
+ Looks great
- No edge protection
It might seem expensive, but Apple's Smart Folio for iPad is stylish, well-made, and available for most iPad models. Powerful magnets hold it in place, and it's perfect for propping the tablet up on a desk or table. The downside is that there's no edge protection.
The best iPad case for a pro look
+ Genuine leather
+ Great fit
+ Good value
- Could be thicker
Apple doesn't make its own leather iPad case, but this one from Casemade is a great alternative. Available for pretty most recent iPad sizes, this gorgeous-looking case is made of high-quality cowhide, designed to securely fit your iPad. It doubles up as a stand for typing or watching videos, too.
The best cheap iPad case
+ Value for money
+ Aesthetically pleasing
+ Great colour choice
- Not great protection
This JETech case is essentially a more affordable version of Apple's official case. It doesn't feel as premium or as well-made, but it'll provide your iPad with a layer of protection and serve as a stand. It also comes in a wider choice of colours.
The best iPad case for protection
+ Tough build
+ Handy port covers
+ Most iPad models
- Bulky
If you're forever dropping your iPad, this will be the case for you. It's rugged but low-profile and provides three layers of protection that should withstand drops, bumps, and shocks. It even has port covers to keep out dust and dirt and works excellently as a stand.
The best iPad case with a keyboard
+ Comfortable keyboard
+ Great fit
+ Made by Apple
- No trackpad
This case for the iPad Pro 11/iPad Air and iPad Pro 12.9 (there's no option for the standard iPad or the mini) is ideal if you need to get work done on the go. It attaches magnetically and provides decent protection, but its main selling point is the keyboard.
The best iPad Pro case with a keyboard and trackpad
+ Laptop-like
+ Adjustable stand
+ Trackpad
- Expensive
Unlike Apple's Smart Keyboard Folio, Logitech's case fits the 9th and 10th generation standard iPad. It's more expensive but features a trackpad for a truer laptop-like experience, as well as iPadOS shortcut keys, and an adjustable kick-back stand. The keyboard is detachable, and we love the premium, fabric-like finish.
The best waterproof iPad case
+ IP68 waterproofing
+ Drop protection
+ Screen protector
- Pencil compatibility
This water-safe case is almost as expensive as the Apple Smart Keyboard Folio, but is less well-made, and has no keyboard. It does, however, have IP68 waterproofing, which means protects against up to two metres of water, drop protection of up to four feet, and comes with a screen protector.
The best cheap iPad mini case
+ Great price
+ Slimline and protective
+ Two viewing angles
- A little basic
The ProCase is the perfect option for iPad mini users. It's made of ABS material that'll help your Mini to withstand bumps, scratches and shocks as well giving it a lovely tactile texture. It attaches magnetically and gives you dual standing positions when using it as a stand.
The best transparent iPad case
+ Yellowing-resistant
+ Edge protection
+ Pencil support
- No cover
The ESR Clear Case offers a tough protective shell that still leaves your tablet completely visible - all at an affordable price. It provides drop protection with its hard back and soft, flexible frame, shock-absorbing corners and raised edges. Don't worry about it going grubby either; it's designed to resist yellowing.
The best iPad Pro case that's also a stand
+ Very thin
+ Holds at eye-height
+ Magic Keyboard compatible
- Expensive
- Not great protection
If you want a stand that can hold your iPad at an angle closer to eye level, MOFT has the Snap Float Case. It's extremely thin, which makes us wonder about how protective it really is – this makes it seem rather expensive, but it is very unique.
Do I need an iPad case?
We won't argue that a caseless iPad feels and looks great, but considering their high price, a case can be reassuring. If you're only ever going to use your iPad at home, you might not want to invest in a case – just be careful with it and try to avoid dropping it or putting other objects on top of it, which can cause scratches.
If you're going to travel with your iPad or put it in a bag for use on the go, we'd be a more nervous about using it without a case. Even inside a bag, things seems to somehow magically get bashed or scratched, often because they've rubbed against something either in the bag or outside. A basic iPad case can offer more piece of mind, while some of the more functional options can actually improve the tablet by providing a stand or keyboard.
How should I choose the best iPad case for me?
What makes the best iPad case for you will depend on your priorities and what you want to use your iPad for. If you plan to use your iPad for many of the tasks that you would normally use a laptop for, you'll probably want a physical keyboard, in which case it would probably make sense to get two functions in one and choose one of the best iPad cases with a keyboard included, such as Apple's own Smart Keyboard Folio or Logitech's Combo Touch.
If you'll only be using your iPad as a tablet via the touchscreen, a keyboard will be add unnecessary weight and expense, and you'll be better choosing from among the best iPad cases as your budget permits, and choosing a style that you feel is appropriate for where you use your device.
