You were probably excited when your iPad Air 4 first arrived; ultra-lightweight and fresh new color - you know it was worth the money. Of course, you want to keep it pristine and dread the day it gets its first scratch or dent.
You're not alone.
While your iPad might not leave home as frequently as your iPhone, one drop could leave that first ugly mark.
So, is it necessary to invest in a case that offers some protection?
Is an iPad Durable Enough?
iPad, iPad mini, and iPad Pro all have aluminum backs.
From smartphones to food packaging and bicycles, manufacturers use aluminum, given its good strength-to-weight radio. It's strong, light, and corrosion resistant, although not scratch resistant. Compared with other materials, like titanium and stainless steel, aluminum is the softest. Still, it remains the primary material in computer and phone shell production.
If you slide your iPad across a table or put it in your bag, and you may end up with a long faint scratch on the shell. The “culprit” could be a tiny flick of dirt or a keychain jostling when you are on the go. Sometimes you just don’t know when and where your tablet gets scratched.
Since the iPad is not as easy to grip as an iPhone, nor as significantly weighted to stay still if knocked like a MacBook. Given its size and weight, when an iPad falls, it could deal a fatal blow.
Although the iPad is not very durable, it doesn't mean a case is a must. However, while even a case doesn't make an iPad 100% scratch-proof, you might want to invest in a case if you're someone who likes to drop things.
Who Needs a Case for the iPad?
Everyone has different needs but to help you decide if a protective case is for you, here are some general rules you can follow:
First and foremost, it depends on where you usually use your iPad and its purpose. If the iPad is your child's tool to play and study, an iPad case is probably necessary. Drops, knocks, and sibling-related battles are standard risks with kids, and the iPad will fare no differently than their other toys. Similarly, if you work on a construction site, a bulky case seems essential.
Second, how much do you care about wear and tear? Some feel that as long as the device is up and running, a faint blemish is not a big deal, while others like to keep everything immaculate.
Third, how long do you plan to keep the Apple tablet? On average, an iPad is good for about four years. Suppose you intend to keep it for as long as possible or even sell it once the next-generation iPad comes out. In that case, you'd better put an extra layer of protection on it.
What Kind of iPad Case Should You Pick?
There are various cases available for the iPad, depending on the size and model you own. Thicker cases usually offer more protection, while thinner cases tend to be easier to carry. In the end, your choice in case probably depends on how you will use the iPad.
Whichever case you choose, make sure that it doesn't make your iPad less comfortable to use. There's little point in using a case if you can't even use the iPad the way you like. Don't compromise - there's always something out there that meets all or most of your needs.
A case that gets the best out of an iPad or even adds new functions should be something on your list. For example, the Apple Smart Cover can work as a stand, protects the front and the back of the iPad while also saving battery with the wake/sleep function.
Apple has some useful accessories to offer, although not many when it comes to the Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro 2018 & 2020 and iPad Air 2020.
Magic Keyboard Compatible Case for iPad Pro 2018 & 2020 and iPad Air 2020
Apple's Magic Keyboard allows an iPad Pro or iPad Air to work like a computer. It protects the tablet to a certain extent, but a case is still necessary, as discussed in this article. It's more of a challenge to pick a case for your iPad Pro 2018 & 2020 and iPad Air 4 than older models, as you will want a case that's also compatible with the Magic Keyboard.
The Magic Keyboard is about the same weight as the 12.9-inch iPad Pro.
There are times when you don't want to take the Magic Keyboard with you and just use your iPad Pro or iPad Air as a simple tablet. When you want to turn it into a computer-like device, you attach the tablet to the Magic Keyboard. That's why a case that also works with the Magic Keyboard is essential; otherwise, you will need to continually remove and reattach the case.
There are very few Magic Keyboard compatible cases available as they require a more complex manufacturing technique. Fortunately, PITAKA has the 100% Magic Keyboard compatible case for iPad Air 2020 and iPad Pro 2018/2020. Made from aramid fiber, the MagEZ Case offers seamless functionality between your iPad and Apple Magic Keyboard. Slim and lightweight, with embedded magnets and metal strips for accessories, it can magnetically attach to the Magic Keyboard and Folio Keyboard.
Once attached, you can use your iPad with the Magic Keyboard as though you're not using a case. The Keyboard can still charge your iPad through the USB-C port, and your iPad can charge the Apple Pencil as usual. Moreover, there's a card clip for you to secure the Apple Pencil and allows you to access credit and business cards, adding additional functionality.
If you are using your iPad Pro/Air with the Magic Keyboard, then the PITAKA MagEZ Case is a perfect fit.
Read more:
Can The Newest iPad Pro Really Replace Your Laptop?
The Story Behind The 100% Magic Keyboard Compatible iPad Pro Case
The New iPad Pro 2020's Magic Keyboard Is Not Magic: What Is Missing?
iPad Pro 2020: Why Does Apple Choose the USB-C Port Again?