Welcome to another installment of our weekly iPad-case roundup. As usual, this week's selection includes a slew of different offerings--enough to chase the winter blues away (maybe with the help of a cup of hot cocoa and a good e-book or two).
GelaSkins: The company's gel skins (iPad mini; $20) are now available for the iPad mini. Unlike traditional vinyl skins, GelaSkins's products are made using a special gel material that provides extra cushioning, thus helping to protect your tablet from bumps in addition to scratches. The skins come in a wide variety of different colors and motifs, most with their own matching downloadable wallpaper.
Griffin Technology: The IntelliCase (iPad mini; $40) is, in the company's words, a "marriage of protective polycarbonate and a hinged cover." It comes with a hardshell back case that keeps your iPad safe from bumps and scratches without compromising your ability to use its back camera. The front cover, which is compatible with the tablet's magnetic sleep/wake functionality, can be folded behind the iPad to prop up for typing or viewing in landscape orientation. The Intellicase is available in black, red, or a textured-blue design.
Incase: The Maki Jacket (iPad mini; $35) is a folio-style case offers solid protection against the vagaries of everyday life thank to plenty of padding in all the right places. Plus, you can roll up the front cover--just like the type of sushi roll from which the case takes its name--and use it as a stand for viewing or typing in landscape orientation. The case comes in either black with pink polka dots, or a forest camo/orange combination.
Moshi: The Concerti (iPad 2, 3, and 4; $55) is a hybrid silicone/microfiber case that provides excellent protection and feel. A convenient hand slot makes holding on to your tablet with one hand easy. An integrated stand can prop up the iPad for viewing at several landscape-orientation angles. The Concerti, which is compatible with the iPad's magnetic sleep/wake feature, is available in grey, purple, or black.
Noreve: The Leather Case (iPad mini; ¬70) is handmade from top-quality leather to protect your tablet from all sides against bumps and scratches. The front cover is compatible with the iPad mini's magnetic sleep/wake feature, while the back features a leather stand for viewing or typing. In addition to an all-leather construction, the case is available in custom fabrics and other materials in a variety of colors.
Pad & Quill: The Graduate Artist Series (iPad mini; $70) feature's Pad & Quill's book-bound construction with a wooden frame that keeps your iPad secure during transport and use. The exterior "cover"--for once I get to use that term quite literally--is available in two old-fashioned colors and motifs, while the interior reflects the case's handmade quality.
Rickshaw: The iPad mini Sleeve (iPad mini; $30 and up) features plush, laptop-grade padding to keep your tablet safe and sound during transport while adding minimum bulk. Each sleeve is made to order in the company's San Francisco factory; this allows you to customize every aspect, including the color of the exterior and the interior, the trim, and even the label--all of which are available in a choice of variants. Tweed and waterproof fabrics can also be ordered for an additional $10.
STM Bags: The Skinny (iPad mini; $35) is a sleek, hardshell back cover with a soft front flap that flips around to turn into a convenient stand for viewing or typing in landscape orientation. A slip closure keeps things secure during transport and use. The Skinny comes in black, red, blue, or pink, and it's made from a beautifully textured material that offers an easy grip.
ZooGue: The Prodigy (iPad 2, 3, and 4) is a folio-style case with a black exterior and a microfiber interior that helps keep your iPad safe and clean. The case's claim to fame is the capability to prop up your tablet at six different landscape-orientation angles. The front cover is compatible with the iPad's magnetic sleep/wake feature, and the case includes the appropriate cutouts to ensure unfettered access to all ports, controls, and cameras.
