As part of the work I’m doing for two iPad deployments, I was asked to recommend inexpensive cases to protect the iPads. In both cases (pun intended) I wanted a cover that offered decent protection and good value. I needed backside protection to go with Apple’s Smart Cover for one school and a folio style case for the iPad for another school.
Scenario one – A department at a local university had purchased Apple Smart Covers for their faculty iPads. The Smart Cover offers sleek protection for the screen, a convenient sleep/wake feature when you close/open the cover, and folds to make a triangular stand. But it doesn’t prevent scratches and other damage to the backside of the iPad 2 or offer edge protection. Here are two inexpensive, lightweight, snap-on, plastic covers for the back that work with the Smart Cover.
Acase(TM) Apple iPad 2 Smart Cover Companion Compatible Snap On Slim-Fit Polycarbonate Case for Apple iPad 2
I ordered this a few days after I got my iPad 2 with Apple’s Smart Cover and have had no problems with it. Snapped on easily, bumpers at the corners, clear plastic lets the Apple logo show through. Amazon price – $9.95.
Smart Cover Partner Snap On Slim-Fit Case for Apple iPad 2 – Crystal Clear
This appears to be a similar item and has generally good reviews on Amazon. Can’t comment on the quality or compare to the one above. Priced at $4.00.
Scenario two – I’m also working with a local charter school. We wanted folio style cases for these student iPads, one where the iPad is securely held inside, with a front and back cover. I searched for and got recommendations for a number of folio style cases. We ordered a few samples and chose this one.
amCase(TM) iPad 2 Leather Case and Flip Stand(Black) for Apple iPad 2
This case works much like Apple’s original case for the first iPad. It has a built-in stand and securely holds the iPad inside. This one also supports the sleep/wake feature (like Apple’s Smart Cover). The synthetic leather cover does add thickness but not much weight. It also needs a helping hand occasionally to get a good, smooth fit when closing. But the price was right at $17.99.
If you’ve found a good, inexpensive iPad case, tell us about it in a comment below.