The iPad now comes in three different sizes, including the 7.9-inch Mini, the 9.7-inch Air, and the new 12.9-inch iPad Pro. That can make choosing an iPad model daunting enough, but the decisions don’t stop there. Once you’ve chosen an iPad, you’ll need to consider what accessories you want to pair with it.
The one accessory most iPad owners want is some sort of protection for their new investment. Even if your iPad never leaves the house, a single drop could result in a cracked screen. But what kind of case should you get for your iPad?
The specific case you choose will depend on how you plan to use your iPad. The best minimal protection case is the Smart Case that Apple sells. It protects your iPad from drops and helps conserve battery life by putting it to sleep when the cover is closed. This is a good case if your iPad rarely leaves the house or is generally used at the office, on a plane, or in a hotel while traveling. The big exception to this is young children. If a toddler is going to be using the device regularly, you might want to opt for more protection.
The best cases for maximum protection are the Otterbox Defender and the Griffin Survivor. These cases are best if you plan on using your iPad in conjunction with camping, biking, or other outdoor activities.