Best iPad cases

We pick the best iPad cases and covers on the market for your, iPad, iPad 2, or iPad 3.

Whether you have the original revolutionary iPad, the slimmer iPad 2, or the high-resolution third iPad, we’ve rounded up our favorite cases that fit them all. We have chosen our favorite iPad cases from the many that we’ve seen, and our list has something for everybody, whether you’re a cash-strapped minimalist or want your iPad to be wrapped in luxurious leather. Take your pick from the list below and give your iPad, iPad 2, or third-generation iPad the extra protection and style it deserves.

Also check out our picks for the Best iPad accessories.

This article was originally written by Kelly Montgomery in Dec. 2011. It has been updated with contributions by other writers since.

Moshi iGlaze VersaCover ($60)

The iPad is such a great device for consuming content that it makes sense to get a protective cover that can also double up as a stand for reading or watching movies. Moshi’s iGlaze with VersaCover protects the back of the device and features a magnetic, textured front cover which can be folded to act as a stand for portrait or landscape mode. It is slim and stylish, and offers three stand positions which Moshi has dubbed movie angle, reading angle, and typing angle. The magnets also support the iPad’s auto-wake and sleep feature. Check out our hands-on video with the Moshi iGlaze VersaCover to see it in action. (This product is built for the third iPad.)

Seidio Active with Multi-Purpose Cover ($60)

A dual layer case (for iPad 2 or third-gen) that can stand up to a busy lifestyle could just save your iPad from disaster. The Seidio Active case is made of an easy-grip polymer which is shock absorbent, but also has a hard skeleton to protect the corners and sides of your device. It looks good and offers great protection without adding too much bulk. The multi-purpose cover protects the screen and doubles up as a stand, which offers a variety of viewing angles in portrait or landscape mode.

Griffin AirStrap ($50)

This is a fairly simple molded frame case with a minimal profile. The focus is on making your iPad 3 more comfortable to hold. To that end, you have contoured grips around the edges and a neoprene strap on the back. Slip your hand through the strap and your iPad is snugly secured, which is ideal for a busy commute on the subway. Be warned, the strap is tight so it may not be comfortable for anyone with big hands. A bonus with this case is that all your ports and controls are accessible.

Killspencer iPad Case ($190)

This luxurious leather case (for your iPad OR iPad 2) by Killspencer has plenty of pockets for a little extra storage and sleek black ninja styling that definitely suits our fancy. The case has a handy removable shoulder strap and also features a fabric-lined neoprene interior and water-resistant zippers. The case is also available in the brand’s signature waxed canvas. 

Michael by Michael Kors Faux Leather iPad Case ($128)

For those who like a luxurious look paired with a simple design, we like the classic aesthetic of this case from Michael Kors. The envelope-style clutch case comes in red, camel, or black faux-leather and has a gold-plate logo as well as a two-snap closure. There aren’t any extra bells or whistles hear, but we like the classy look that this case offers. 

Incase Book Jacket Select ($60)

We like this case, specifically designed for the iPad 2, for its simple sleek design and helpful functionality. The portfolio-style case features a an elastic band to secure the case, suede lining, and bumpers to prop your ‘pad up at three different angles for viewing or typing. The case also includes a precision-cut camera hole so that you can keep snapping away. 

Rustic Case iPad 2 Case ($50) 

For something that’s simple but adds a little bit of coziness to your shiny, high-tech toy, this option from Rustic Case is the perfect compromise. Handcrafted in New England from wool and natural leather, the simple sleeve-style case offers great protection and will fit your iPad 2 with or without a smart cover. 

Grove iPad 2 Case ($139+)

This clever case for the iPad 2 is made from beautiful bamboo and includes an integrated leather smart cover that can be used as a stand and can also be engraved in a variety of fun and artistic designs. The precision-cut wood perfectly holds your ‘pad and the smooth suede inside cover will help keep your screen scratch-free. Choose a plain cover, an artist design, or custom-design your own.