Now that Apple has unveiled the 9.7-inch iPad Pro, we take a look at the best ways to protect both of Apple’s top-end iPad Pro tablets.
Just as we all expected, a smaller iPad Pro actually exists – and it’s cool. Unless you have the original iPad Pro already, you may be thinking of getting yourself the smaller variant.
Of course, if you do, there’s no denying that it’s a delicate piece of kit. It’s pretty much a slab of glass and metal, which could easily smash or dent if you were to drop it on the floor. What happens then? You end up wasting money on expensive repairs.
How to prevent this from happening? It’s simple, really. Shove your beloved iPad in a case so it’s not constantly exposed to danger. There are plenty of them out there, and they all cater for different needs.
From high-protection cases that’ll add bulk to your iPad and protect it in all types of accident scenarios, to slim offerings that look good and will prevent against scratches, there’s something for you.
Here are the best cases for both iPad Pro models.
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STM Dux
If you want something that won’t add much bulk to your iPad Pro but will still protect it, check out the STM Dux. Slim and lightweight, it’ll snap onto the back of the iPad with ease, and there’s a slot for the Apple pencil.
It’s been tested to meet US Military Spec 810G durability standards. What does that mean? Let’s simply say that your iPad Pro will be safe with the STM Dux.
Price: £54.95
Fits both iPad Pro models
Related: 9.7-inch iPad Pro vs iPad Air 2
STM Atlas
The STM Atlas is the better choice if you want to protect all of your iPad, as it covers both the front and back. This folio-style case has been designed with style and comfort in mind, and is made from textured fabric sporting a patterned finish.
It can also act as a stand, and just like the Dux, there’s a section for storing your Apple Pencil. The case has a magnetic closing mechanism that activates sleep and wake functionality as well, helping to preserve battery life. You can get it in charcoal, denim, and red finishes.
Price: £54.95
Fits both iPad Pro models
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Apple Smart Cover and Silicone Case
Apple happens to make and sell its own iPad cases too. The classic Smart Cover is the best option if you want something simple and low key, as it only protects the iPad’s screen. Sporting a magnetic hinge, the cover attaches to the iPad easily, offers a wake/sleep functionality, and can be used as a stand.
You can choose from 12 colours and it starts at £39. Should you want to add protection to the back of the iPad, grab yourself Apple’s Official Silicone Case, which costs £55 for the smaller iPad Pro and £65 for the 12.9-inch model. Both cases will work hand-in-hand, although they’re pricey.
Price: varies
Fits both iPad Pro models
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Smart Keyboard
Alongside the Apple Pencil, the Smart Keyboard is one of the iPad Pro’s star accessories. It adds a full-size keyboard to the iPad Pro, meaning you can respond to emails and work on documents on-the-go. The keys are soft and comfortable to type on, and because they’ve been lasered into the base, you won’t get dust or crumbs in between them.
Like the Smart Cover, it attaches magnetically, and connects to the iPad via the Smart Connector. When you’re not using the keyboard, it functions as a cover, so you get the best of both worlds. Again, like any other official Apple accessory, the Smart Keyboard isn’t exactly cheap, but you’re getting a quality product.
Price: £129 (9.7-inch iPad Pro), £139 (12.9-inch iPad Pro)
Fits both iPad Pro models
Griffin Survivor All-Terrain
Want to ensure your iPad Pro never gets damaged? Then you can’t go wrong with the Griffin Survivor All-Terrain. It’s fair to say it’s on the extreme end of the case scale, as it sports several layers of protection. There’s a foam-lined, shatter-resistant polycarbonate frame, shock-absorbing silicone, a built-in screen protector and hinged plugs to stop dust, sand, and rain from getting in.
The case meets US defence standards and can withstand 6.6-foot drops onto concrete, according to Griffin. Obviously, what you have to be aware of is that this case will add a lot of bulk to your iPad, but it’s better than seeing it damaged.
Price: £49.99
Fits only the iPad Pro 9.7-inch
Filofax Metropol
Cases are a great way for adding a touch of personality to your tech, and you can do that with the Filofax Metropol. Made from smooth leather-look PU, it’s available in several bright colours. These include orange, navy, black, and red.
As well as looking good, the case is also practical. It sports a rotatable tablet holder for multiple viewing angles, an elastic strap to keep the folio closed when it’s not in use, a protective ABS shell, and pockets for notepads, smartphones, pens, and other accessories. The case has also been built for both left and right-handed users.
Price: £41.98
Fits only the iPad Pro 12.9-inch
Twelve South BookBook
Unlike any other case on the market, the Twelve South BookBook will turn your iPad into an old-school book – which is great if you want to disguise your iPad Pro and keep it safe from intruders.
Made from handcrafted leather, it’s a stunning way to add a bit of character to your expensive tablet. In terms of features, you’ll find a stand, a pocket for the Apple Pencil, dual zips and a microfibre lining so the iPad doesn’t get damaged when in the case. We expect to see the case on sale this Spring, with pricing yet to be confirmed.
Price: TBA
BookBook are yet to confirm whether the case will fit both iPad Pro models
Poetic Turtle Skin
The fact is, you’ve spent hundreds on getting yourself an iPad Pro, which means you may not have much cash spare for a top-tier case. The Poetic Turtle Skin is a decent budget case, made from thick premium silicone offering a splashproof coating.
It’s been built to protect your iPad from extreme shock and impact, and you’ll also benefit from an Apple Pencil holder and raised air vents to ensure the tablet doesn’t overheat. It’s available in black, blue, green, pink, and purple, so you needn’t sacrifice style for protection. You get both, and for just a few quid.
Price: £13.95
Fits only the iPad Pro 12.9-inch
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Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
