IPad Showdown: A Detailed Analysis of iPad Pro and iPad Air to Determine the Ultimate Apple Tablet for You

Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Ideal iPad Pro Case for 202N4 – Expert Ratings and Insights

Today, iPads can serve as notebooks, e-readers , tablets , and laptop-esque workstations . And just as we use iPhone screen protectors , it’s a good idea to grab a screen protector for your iPad, too – because if you’re dropping significant savings on an iPad Pro , it’s important to protect your investment from all the potential dings, drops, and hazards ahead.

Also: The best iPads of 2024: Expert tested

Plus, with Apple rolling out a new lineup of iPad Pros , there’s no time like the present to consider accompanying protection – especially if you’re going to upgrade.

Also: The 4 most exciting iPad Pro 2024 features (and what they can do for you)

Disclaimer: This post includes affiliate links

If you click on a link and make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

What’s the best iPad Pro case right now?

Right now, our top pick for the best iPad Pro case is the Zugu 11-inch and 12.9-inch iPad Pro case thanks to its multiple stand configurations, good protection and security, fair price, durability, and great warranty. New 11-inch and 13-inch Zugu cases are also available for preorder for the new iPad Pro models.

But there’s a plethora of iPad cases to choose from, and that’s why we rounded up our other top picks for you to consider. The best iPad Pro cases offer added features like stylus holders and more based on our hands-on testing, expert research, and extensive knowledge of the iPad line.

Review: The M4 iPad Pro

The best iPad Pro cases of 2024

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View now at Zugucase View now at Zugucase View now at Amazon

Pros

Adjustable stand
Bumper and rugged shell
Magnetic mounting capability
Front cover
Stylus holder
Wireless charging for Apple Pencil
Great color options
Under $100

Cons

No fun patterns or prints
A bit bulkier
Rugged design
Limited colors for new iPad Pro models

Zugu iPad Pro Case

Best iPad Pro case overall

Let me start by saying the Zugu iPad case is truly a solid case, and I really like it. It features an adjustable stand with 8 configurations, a bumper and rugged shell for added drop protection, a stylus pocket, wireless charging capabilities, and more. Plus, Zugu has cases available for preorder for the new M4 iPad Pro models.

I tested this Zugu case on my iPad Air (pictured above) for the past few weeks along with several other cases, it’s my favorite. It’s extremely functional but still practical, providing true security from bumps and drops (not just operating as a light cover). I loved using it as a stand, especially while testing several note-taking apps this month. The material feels premium and expensive with a clean, appealing design.

And while the functionality is top-notch, my favorite thing about the Zugu case is the color. I’ve been using the case in the Desert Rose color, and as a true Gen-Z corporate girl, I love it. Many companies don’t cater to colors outside of black, white, tan, and brown, so the unique color choices are awesome, but I still wish there were more fun prints and designs. The new iPad Pro model cases also have limited colors for now, but I expect to see more soon.

Current customers on the Zugu website said they like the overall protection, functionality, quality, and aesthetic of the Zugu case. Many said the case is a great value and has a premium feel, and one customer even said they wished they’d found Zugu sooner.

What’s even better is that Zugu will pay a one-time AppleCare+ repair fee if your iPad is damaged while in a Zugu case. The Zugu case is well worth the money in my opinion, and it’s a solid all-around case for style and protection.

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View now at Burga

Pros

Fun designs and patterns
Folio style
Apple Pencil storage/charging
Doubles as stand
Under $100
Shock absorption
Raised bezel design

Cons

Stand configurations could be more comfortable
Folio front feels a bit flimsy
No cases for new 13-inch iPad Pro

Burga iPad Pro Case

Best basic iPad Pro case for style

Burga’s folio case for the iPad Pro combines style and function. It features a spot for stylus storage and Apple Pencil charging, has a hard shell backing and a soft close folio front, can be used as stand for your iPad, features shock absorption and a raised bezel design, and is overall sleek in profile.

When I tested the Burga case on the iPad Air the last few weeks (pictured above) I liked its light weight, handy Apple Pencil storage, folio style cover, stand configuration, and numerous prints and designs. It’s a great basic case to protect from everyday bumps and scratches, but I recommend bumping up to something more secure such as an Otterbox or even the Zugu case if you’re accident prone or are more rough around the edges when it comes to your tech.

I also wish the stand options on the case were a bit more comfortable for viewing, though it’s a nice add to have the option to prop up my iPad up at all while watching a show or video. For the $60 price tag though, I think this a great buy for the features you are getting, especially considering a similar folio case from Apple is now around $80 and ones at Casetify start at $92.

Current customers on the Burga website said they like the overall value of the case, with emphasis on the case’s design, build, and and quality. Many said they enjoyed the fun patterns and color options – which outdo most other case mentioned on this list in the color department, and compete with the likes of only Casetify.

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View now at Logitech View now at Amazon View now at Amazon

Pros

Detachable keyboard
Trackpad
Stylus storage
Backlit keys
More affordable than Apple’s Magic Keyboard

Cons

Slightly heavy
Still pricey
Limited color options

Logitech Combo Touch Keyboard Case

Best iPad Pro keyboard case

The Logitech Combo Touch is our pick for the best overall iPad Pro keyboard case thanks to its top features and affordable price. The Combo touch is packed full of function thanks to a detachable keyboard, backlit keys, built-in stylus storage, iPad OS shortcut keys, and more. It offers four modes of use (type, view, sketch, and read) to suit iany of your iPad activities.

Review: My favorite iPad keyboard and stylus are not made by Apple

When ZDNET’s Senior Reviews Editor Kerry Wan tested the Combo Touch and Logitech Crayon Stylus with the iPad 10th Gen back in 2022, he lauded its ability to “flex on the Magic Keyboard [Folio].”

“Logitech’s Combo Touch cover and Crayon stylus for the iPad are cheaper and practically better than Apple’s own accessories. [They] are not perfect, but they deliver a more feature-rich experience than Apple’s first-party accessories at a fraction of the cost. That’s not a knock on Apple’s own iPad keyboard and stylus by any means; the two are just as worthy of your consideration,” Wan wrote in his review .

Current customers on the Logitech website said they liked the top of the line features, overall value, and price point of the Combo Touch case, which has over 100 5/5 star reviews. One customer, like Wan, even said it beat out Apple’s own Magic Keyboard. “This product is exactly what I hoped Apple was going to provide. And, it was at a fraction of the price,” they wrote.

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View now at Best Buy View now at Otterbox View now at Otterbox

Pros

Durability
Edge protection
Port covers
Excellent protection against dirt and grime
Rugged build

Cons

Expensive
No color options
A bit bulky

OtterBox Defender

Best iPad Pro case for max durability

Some people use their iPads to scroll on the couch, but others need a tablet in the field. Whether you work in construction, utilities, or another boots-on-the-ground industry, you might want your iPad Pro to be able to venture out with you. Enter: the OtterBox Defender Series Pro Case.

With raised edges, it offers drop protection for your screen and camera. Plus, the Defender Series Pro case comes with OtterBox’s silver-based antimicrobial additive, which means your case actively fights bacteria growth. Finally, the case offers port covers to ensure any dirt and dust you encounter in the field doesn’t clog up your jacks and ports. Cases for the new iPad Pro 11-inch and 13-inch models are currently available for preorder.

Review: The OtterBox Defender Series case for iPad Pro

Current users on Best Buy said they like the value, quality, and overall ease of use, giving the Defender case 4.5/5 stars on the site. Many users said they like the secure durability and protection from bumps and scrapes, but some users said they had issues getting their Apple Pencil to stay secure.

OtterBox Defender Series Pro Case features: Raised edges for added protection | Antimicrobial additive to reduce bacteria growth | Port covers

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View now at Moft

Pros

Unique stand configurations
Stylus holder
Lightweight
Premium feel

Cons

Limited colors
Not the most protective
A bit pricey
No new iPad Pro 13-inch case

Moft Snap Float Folio Case

Click here

Best iPad Pro case for versatile angles

The Moft Snap Float Folio case is one of the most unique iPad cases I’ve tested in the last few months, which doesn’t come as a surprise. Moft makes some of the most innovate, origami-inspired mobile and tech accessories I’ve seen.

The Moft Snap Float Folio case features a strong magnetic connection with a sleek and slim design that makes the case feel elevated and premium. The stylus holder is a plus, and the case configures into three different angled positions. One standing position is an ultra high alignment (as pictured) which lifts your iPad up above much of the competitors.

The case is a duo system, so you can customize which parts you want to use at any given time. There’s a soft outside folio and a hard case set for extra protection. They can be used individually or together, and it’s easy to change. I tested the Moft case for the last month on my iPad Air, and I especially liked the standing configuration, which allowed it to be eye-level. It’s perfect for working from home or personal video calls. I also enjoyed the premium look and feel, which is certainly more elevated than some other case options on this list. One downside right now is there is no iPad Pro 13-inch case available.

Current Moft Float Folio users said they like the overall design and quality feel of the case, as well as the functionality thanks to the unique stand configurations. One customer even said Moft cases deserved more hype than they get. “It’s the best case and holder ever. The quality of materials is great, the finishes are great. You can put it in any position you’re thinking of and your iPad is very well protected too. Simply the best. This product should be better known,” the customer wrote.

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What is the best iPad Pro case?

The best iPad Pro case overall is the Zugu iPad Pro case thanks to its great warrant, top features, and maximum protection. But here’s a quick glance at our top picks and how they compare cost and model wise.

iPad Pro case	Price (Starting cost for 11-inch, 2022 model)	Compatible models	Key features
Zugu iPad Pro case	Starting at $60	11-inch, 12.9-inch, 13-inch	Adjustable stand configurations, quality construction, large color selection, front cover
Burga iPad Pro case	$60	11-inch, 12.9-inch	Doubles as stand, folio to cover front, Apple Pencil charging, stylus storage, shock absorption
Logitech Combo Touch Keyboard case	Starting at $200	11-inch, 12.9, 13-inch	Detachable keyboard and case, backlit keys, trackpad, stylus storage
OtterBox Defender case	Starting at $90	11-inch, 12.9, 13-inch	Raised edges for screen protection, antimicrobial additive prevents bacteria growth
Moft Snap Float Folio case	Starting at $120	11-inch, 12.9-inch	Three stand configurations, slim, sophisticated design and feel

*MSRP at the time of publishing. Please note that prices may vary based on retailer and available promotions, sales, or discounts.

Which is the right iPad Pro case for you?

Based on our hands-on testing and expert research, the Zugu iPad Pro case takes our top spot for the best iPad Pro case overall. But here’s why another top pick might be the better for you and what we think each case is best for.

Choose this iPad Pro case…	If you want…
Zugu iPad Pro case	The best iPad Pro case we’ve tested with great protection, value, and functionality.
Burga iPad Pro case	A trendy but durable basic iPad Pro folio case that offers essential features in various designs and colors.
Logitech Combo Touch Keyboard case	To convert your iPad Pro into a workable laptop. Coming with a keyboard with backlit keys and a trackpad, this model converts your iPad Pro into the ultimate productivity tool.
OtterBox Defender case	A durable iPad Pro case built for protection. WIth raised edges, an included screen-protector, and port covers, it’s perfect to take to a job site.
Moft Snap Float Folio case	A premium, oragami-inspired cover that converts into three unqiue stand configurations.

Factors to consider when choosing an iPad Pro case

If you’re in the market for an iPad Pro case, here’s a few factors to keep in mind:

Size: It is critical that your iPad case and cover be compatible with your iPad Pro. Check the size of the case to ensure that it will fit your iPad model, so it won’t be too small or too large.
Build: iPad cases and covers can be made out of many different materials. The best iPad Pro cases and covers incorporate durable materials like rubber and polycarbonate plastic. Some are even rated for drop protection, providing an extra level of durability and security for your device.
Features: Not all cases are created equal, and they don’t all offer the same features. Consider if you will want or need a trackpad or keyboard, stylus holder, adjustable stand, or other features to help narrow down your search and make it easier to find your top contenders. You don’t want to purchase a case that doesn’t fit your wants and needs.
Design: Why not add a little style to your iPad Pro? Many of the best iPad Pro cases and covers are available in a variety of different colors and patterns so you can add a splash of personality to your everyday carry, if that’s what you’re looking for.
Budget: There are many affordable iPad Pro cases available, but there are also some that cost well over $100, depending on the design and features. Setting a budget for yourself can will help narrow your search parameters.

How did we choose these iPad Pro cases?

We chose these iPad Pro case options after extensive research into the product category and by going hands-on with some of these products. We looked at renowned brands and reviews (both good and bad) and noted the top-rated iPad Pro cases for different wants and needs. Ultimately, factors like cost, compatibility, use case, size, and practicality guided our top picks. We also consider ease of use, function, design, and other direct features to help ensure we’re recommending the best of the best to you. We also made sure to look for the top nice-to-have features, such as Apple Pencil charging capabilities, keyboards, and multiple stand configurations.

Does my iPad Pro need a case?

If you put a case on your smartphone, why wouldn’t you put a case on your iPad Pro? Cases and covers help ensure the device you spent money on is protected through travel and everyday bumps and bangs.

Investing in a good iPad Pro case is investing in your iPad Pro. Adding a case can only improve your tablet’s lifespan.

What are the new iPad models?

Apple announced the 6th-generation iPad Air and the 7th-generation iPad Pro models on May 7, 2024. You can preorder the tablets now on Apple’s website, and they are officially available on May 17.

Also: How to preoder the new iPad Air, iPad Pro, Magic Keyboard, and Apple Pencil Pro

The new iPad Air comes in two sizes for the first time (11 inches and 13 inches) and features the M2 chip. In addition, the iPad Air now starts at 128GB instead of the mere 64GB that Apple previous included in the base model. The iPad Pro is available in an 11-inch or 13-inch display.

What are the iPad Pro sizes?

The 4th and 5th Gen iPad Air models have a 10.9-inch display, and the 2022 iPad Pro models have either an 11-inch or 12.9-inch display (iPad Pro 11-inch 4th Gen or iPad Pro 12.9-inch 6th Gen). The newest iPad Pros will feature either an 11-inch or 13-inch display.

You can compare sizes and see display and model information on the Apple website.

Are the iPad Pro 2022 the same size as the iPad Pro 2024?

Yes and no. The 2022 iPad Pro is available in either an 11-inch or 12.9-inch display. Apple’s newly announced Pro models are either an 11-inch or 13-inch display, which means that it’s likely many existing 11-inch cases may work for the new model, but the 12.9-inch iPad Pro cases won’t perfectly work with the new 13-inch iPad Pro.

We suggest selecting a case that is specifically designed for your iPad’s display size, and we anticipate more case options for the new iPad models to hit the market soon.

Is there a new Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro?

Yes, there is a new Magic Keyboard for the iPad Pro. On May 7, Apple announced an upgraded version of its Apple Magic Keyboard for the iPad Pro, where the brand simultaneously unveiled brand new iPads.

Also: Best iPad Pro keyboard cases of 2024

This new Magic Keyboard is only compataible with the new M4 iPad Pro 11-inch and 13-inch models, and includes a larger trackpad, a function row, and other upgraded features. It is available for preorder now. The 11-inch Magic Keyboard model will costs $299 while the 13-inch is $399 .

Do I need an iPad Pro keyboard case?

The answer here boils down to how you want to use your iPad Pro. If you frequently use your iPad like a mini computer setup to do work, school, or other typing and stylus-driven activities, a keyboard case could be a great option for you – especially if you want to optimize your iPad and upgrade how you can use it.

If you just use your iPad Pro for entertainment like catching up on your favorite TV show, an expensive keyboard case is probably not worth your investment.

Are there other iPad Pro cases worth considering?

While we’ve gone hands on with some great cases over the years thanks to our extensive testing of Apple’s iPad line, there are always more options to consider. Here are a few more picks that may be a good fit for you, even though they didn’t snag our top spots.

Best budget folio case for iPad Pro 13-inch ESR iPad Pro 13-inch Rebound Magnetic case If you’re upgrading to the iPad Pro 13-inch, but don’t want to spend out yet on a case until more options hit the market, this basic ESR folio case offers simple protection, stand configurations, magnetic closure, and is available in six colors. View at Esrgear Best basic iPad Pro case Casetify Impact Case When I tested the Impact case on the iPad Air last month, I liked its light weight, handy Apple Pencil storage, and numerous prints and designs. It’s a great basic case to protect from everyday bumps and scratches, but there’s no screen protection (unless you upgrade to the folio style) and it’s quite pricey. View at Casetify Best splurge iPad Pro (2022) keyboard case Apple Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro Apple’s Magic Keyboard case is the tech giant’s companion for the iPad Pro and iPad Air. It comes in white or black, features laptop-like typing, a trackpad, a USB-C port for charging, backlit keys, and front and back protection. Thanks to a magnetic hold, you can also adjust to a comfortable viewing angle. View at Apple Best iPad Pro keyboard case for 2024 iPad Pro models Apple Magic Keyboard (2024) If you’re upgrading to the new iPad Pro, the new Magic Keyboard is specially designed to accompany it and maximize it’s new features. The 11-inch iteration will cost you $299, and the 13-inch, $399. View at Apple

More iPad accessories to consider

If you want to optimize your iPad Pro’s capabilities, here’s a few more accessories to consider – like a screen protector and an iPad styuls -- to level-up your iPad’s functionality and protection.

Apple Pencil (2nd Gen) View now at Amazon

Apple Pencil (1st Gen) View now at Amazon

Logitech Crayon Stylus View now at Logitech

Logitech i345 Portable Wireless Mouse for iPad View now at Logitech

Zagg InvisibleShield Glass Elite Screen Protector View now at Best Buy

Paperlike 2.1 iPad Screen Protector View now at Amazon