WHAT IS IT: Ultra Slim case for iPad Mini
NEW, FUTURE or RETRO: New
PREVIEW or REVIEW: Review
HOW GOOD IT IS: I have looked at and/or tested many cases for the iPad and iPad Mini (a comprehensive comparison is in the works) and regardless of brand, price or style this is my favorite.
It complements the engineering Apple put into making the iPad, particularly the Mini, ultra thin and ultra light but adding the absolute minimum to the iPad's thickness and weight. The hard, rigid construction adds protection for the iPad's screen and case and actually makes it easier to hold, especially when using the tablet as an e-reader. Despite costing a fraction of most similar cases I simply would not use my iPad Mini without it.
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| There are no complicated latches or folds, just open the case and set it at the angle that's convenient for you |
HOW WELL DOES IT WORK:
It is truly the thinnest case I have seen, even thinner than Apple’s own case. But no protection is given up; the front and back covers are very hard and sturdy. I keep it on my iPad over 95% of the time, only removing it for those times I use my keyboard folio case for travel.
The iPad snaps into a full-perimeter frame that holds it very tightly, yet the tablet may be removed with little effort.
The front cover is lined with a soft felt material and is rigid enough to be able to hold the iPad like a paperback book.
The iPad can be securely adjusted to a reasonable range of horizontal angles however there is no way to prop it up vertically.
The PU leather (plastic) exterior is deeply textured for a definite non-slip grip.
The case is no-nonsense and business-like. There is a lot to be said for not attracting attention to the fact that you’re carrying an expensive tablet.
The automatic sleep/wake function works flawlessly on a case like this. Need to take a break from reading an e-book? Close the cover. When you reopen the cover you can pick up just where you left off.
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| Hold just like a book when used as an e-reader |
In addition to the above a plus for me is that the case only has two hinge points which is both stylish and practical. The front cover may be folded 180 degrees around the back, still not adding an objectionable amount of thickness. I’ve developed a “trick” of inserting my forefinger between the two covers both in the horizontal and vertical positions which keeps helps me hold the case with more stability than any other case I’ve tried.
At the time I reviewed it the normal selling price on Amazon was under $10. Of any of the cases I have seen under $40 this is the one I like the best and it would be the first I would recommend for the price. It truly compliments I Pad’s extreme thinness and lightness while adding the least bulk and weight as possible but still managing to offer a high degree of basic protection to the tablet.
SIMILAR TO: Too many to list, there are cases made of plastic, silicone, leather, fake leather, etc. Choosing the right case is a very personal decision, it has to "feel right" to you. This Anker case feels perfect to me.
DO YOU NEED IT: Cases of every variety for the iPad and other tablets are now everywhere you look, ranging from under $10 to as high as $150. There are an endless number of styles and gimmicks to make practically everyone happy.
HOW IT IMPACTS YOU: You paid $400 or more for your new iPad Mini. You bought it because of how light and slim it is. But you want to protect it from scratches and other damage so you need a case. Most tablet cases add significant bulk and weight and have complicated latches and hinges and are more trouble to use than they should be. The Anker case may be everything you want and need and it won't cost you a ton of money to buy.
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| I hold it with my index finger between the front and back covers |
COMMENTS:
You likely will be happier with two cases … one ultra-slim for basic protection against scratches at home and commuting and another more rugged case for travel, especially if you have to pack the device in a carry-on bag.
A good ultra-slim can be held like a paperback for reading and set at an angle on a desk for watching videos. It should permit popping the tablet in and out easily but not too easily so it doesn’t fall out.
The more rugged case ideally would have a thin Bluetooth keyboard built in to add versatility to your tablet. Those cases are often called “folios”.
The inside front cover should be free of any pockets, flaps, rivets or anything else that could press against the device’s screen. Ideally it would be a soft, non-scratching felt.
The outer case should have a non-slip surface to safeguard against it slipping out of your hand.
TECH TOY WIZARD RATING: 5/5
SEE IT IN MOTION: Coming soon
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