Verdict

Pros

• Great value
• Neoprene offers impact protection
• Lightweight

Cons

• Pink version a little garish

The iPad 2 is at its best when used while lounging about in a near-horizontal state – in front of the TV, in bed or just relaxing on the sofa. In these situations, you don’t really need a case unless you’re desperately clumsy. The iLuv Neoprene case is a solution for those who roll this way, but like to take their iPad 2 out of the house occasionally.

This isn’t a case to keep on your iPad at all times – it’s more a funky jiffy bag to ensure it stays pristine while en route from A to B. What’s really special about this case, though, is that it’s available for just over £10.

While not a luxury item, its low price isn’t too apparent. Its outer is heavily embossed, offering both a distinct look and more protection than many cases. Neoprene is squidgy, and will absorb much of the force of an impact should you drop the tablet. However, the case’s edges are thinner, perforated faux-leather, which offers less armour for the iPad. Also, there’s no riggidity here, so it won’t offer much protection from pointed impacts – a boot, a kerb, an unfortunately placed pebble…

The inside of the iLuv Neoprene is lined with fake fur, to keep the screen and back scratch-free. What’s rather likeable about this case is that while it uses completely man-made materials, it’s not trying to convince you otherwise, unlike so many “pleather” folio cases. It’s plastic fantastic.

It comes in two colours, black and pink. The latter is a startling pink that’s a little offensive to the eye, but sure to attract a small bunch of fans. The more conservative black is the opposite, entirely inoffensive and non-showy. As a case to sling in your bag during journeys, it suits the design perfectly.

It is restricted to this sort of use because you can’t use the tablet while it’s wearing the case. The zip only covers half of its sides, ruling-out being able to open it up fully and wrap it round the back. There are also no additional pockets, so if you want to store anything else you’ll have to sling it in the main compartment with the tablet. However, while there’s a little extra space in the iLuv, we wouldn’t recommend stuffing it too full as the zip is a standard type rather than anything reinforced for greater strength. Not to mention the increased chance you’ll damage your iPad.

The iLuv Neoprene is a simple, straightforward case for those who don’t want to keep their tablet locked away in a little fabric cage 24/7. Its envelope style makes it extremely easy to get the iPad in and out, and while not flashy it’s hardy enough to rely upon.

Verdict
As with so many iLuv products, the Neoprene iPad 2 case is a winner because it’s just so cheap. It offers a reasonable amount of protection and its no-frills approach is well-suited to its audience – those who don’t want to keep their tablet in a case all the time.

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