The 5 Best iPad Covers
The world of professional gaming is adopting iPads faster than you can say 'Electro Shuffle'. The real game changer came last October, when Apple provided limited mouse support for the iPad iOS, sparking rumors of full mouse support in the near future. If you’re shelling out $1,700 for the latest iPad Pro, it’s more important than ever to find the right case to protect your investment. But gamers want more than protection from cracked screens: they need a design that gives them a critical edge in competition. So, we did the research (read: we played a lot of games) and came up with the 5 best iPad covers on the market.
Zugu Muse
When Zu Want the Best
Since 2010, 25-year-old inventor and entrepreneur Tim Angel has been on a quest to create the perfect iPad cover, and the Zugu Muse may well be it. With a fiberglass internal structure, dual-injected PC/TPU shell and anti-rip external synthetic leather, the Muse can withstand drops from five feet. But what really sets this cover apart from the rest is the magnetic kickstand that adjusts to eight separate, secure angles. This creates the perfect angle for any situation, be it a table, couch or bed.
Pros:
- Other sizes available for different makes and generations
- Available in four colors
- Anti-slide cover prevents battery drain
- Magnetized kickstand secures iPad to refrigerator or other metal surfaces
Cons:
- Volume and power buttons difficult to press
- Home button must stay on right side
Yekbee iPad Keyboard Case
The Key To A Better iPad Cover
For the gamer who prefers a peripheral keyboard with their iPad, the Yekbee is the clear choice. The attached keyboard is quiet, spacious and comes in ten different backlit colors. Other features include a screen cover that rotates 360 degrees, an auto sleep & wake feature that preserves battery life and compatibility with multiple iPad generations. Combine this with a durable, polycarbonate shell with reinforced aluminum hinges and impact-resistant corners, and you’ve got a cover that’s hard to beat (see what we did there?).
Pros:
- Available in six colors
- Free lifetime tech support & 12-month warranty
- Infinite viewing angles across 180 degrees
Cons:
- Speaker cutouts can muffle sound
- Pencil holder stretches out quickly
Urban Armor Gear Folio
Best Case Scenario
When we started our research, we knew we wanted to include at least one hand-held iPad cover. Many gamers prefer this orientation, and it’s a must for field professionals who need a way to keep their tablet off their work surface. In this category, nothing beats the UAG Folio. The 360-degree rotating hand strap provides a tight grip against the water-resistant case, which also conforms to military drop test standards (810G 516.6). Yes, it’s slightly more expensive than its competition, but it’s worth every penny.
Pros:
- Oversized tactile buttons
- Available with a kickstand and shoulder strap
- Light composite construction
Cons:
- Not compatible with iPad Air 2
- Folio mode collapses easily
Spigen Tough Armor Tech
He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Cover
Spigen introduced the first full-cover case for the iPad 9.7 with the Tough Armor Tech. The clumsiest amongst us (count me in) who are prone to cracking or scratching their iPad’s screen will love the custom-sized, tempered glass screen protector, which is included with the cover. Precision cutouts and buttons provide quick access to your iPads features, and the dual-stability kickstand adds a folio feature to the unit. It’s easy to assemble, and most gamers find this cover to be one of the best-balanced.
Pros:
- Certified drop resistance
- Two-position kickstand
- 360-degree protection coverage
Cons:
- Not compatible with iPad Pro 9.7 or other iPad models
- Stylus may not work on glass screen protector
MobileDemand iPad Pro
Takes A Licking And Keeps On Ticking
If you’re that eccentric gamer who likes gaming in odd places, like, perhaps on the top of a ladder, then the MobileDemand iPad Pro is for you. Drop tested multiple times from an astounding ten feet, this cover provides the ultimate in protection, and with some cool features to boot. The included snap mount plate provides easy mounting to walls and desks, and the screw inserts allow attachment of your favorite add-ons, such as MSRs, 3D cameras and POS Pin Pads. Also includes a detachable briefcase handle and a solid-grip hand strap.
Pros:
- RAM Mount compatible
- Screen protector included
- Wide variety of peripherals available
Cons:
- Rubber exoskeleton feels flimsy
- iPad Pro models three times as expensive
Frequently Asked Questions
Are most iPad covers 100% waterproof?
No. Though all the iPad covers we researched provide some degree of water protection, fully-waterproof covers are in a category of their own. Furthermore, it’s possible that an iPad cover could end up trapping moisture inside of it, potentially exposing the iPad’s internals to water damage if you’re not careful. Of course, that’s only something you need to worry about if you’ve spilled liquid on your device. If you’re sure you need true, 100% waterproofing, make sure you include it in your research.
Are most iPad covers fire resistant?
Not really. Most of the iPad covers in our research are constructed from various grades of plastic, rubber and composite materials. Fireproof and fire-resistant iPad covers can be found in the marketplace, but those are specialty items you’ll need to look for specifically.
As a gamer, should I wait for Apple to announce iPad mouse support before buying an iPad cover?
Certainly not. Your iPad represents a substantial investment. It only makes sense to spend an additional 5% to 10% to protect that investment. True, some covers mess with the sleek aesthetic of the iPad, and it’s often annoying to have to dish out money to buy one; however, the right iPad cover can not only make your iPad look better and feel more comfortable in your hand, but it could enhance your gaming experience, too.
About the Author
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With the constantly shifting landscape in the world of technology, GameRevolution seeks to provide gamers and tech-enthusiasts with the information they need to select the right products for their needs. Since 1996, our experts have used their knowledge on all the latest gadgets – everything from headphones to standing desks – to help millions of people navigate specs and answer common questions.