Apple’s iPad Air has remained popular with tablet users for years, and rightly so. It’s thin, light, and packed with power — and even more so when Apple’s M3 chip powers it. However, it doesn’t come with a case that allows for personalization, additional protection, or functionality.
That’s where we come in. We’ve handpicked the best iPad Air cases, many featuring handy extras like keyboards, trackpads, and built-in stands, and we’ve gone hands-on with iPad Air cases from brands like Casetify, Apple, and Logitech. We’ve also noted the impressive discounts available on some iPad Air cases right now during Black Friday week.
Review: iPad Air (2024): Apple’s M2 tablet is even better than my $1,200 Android
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What is the best iPad Air case right now?
The Zugu iPad Air case is currently our top pick for the best iPad Air case overall, thanks to its multiple stand configurations, solid protection and security, fair price, top features, and excellent warranty. During Black Friday, prices range from $48 to around $60 depending on the case’s style and color.
Alternatively, Burgaoffers stylish, patterned iPad Air cases in countless styles. You can take 25% off a case during the Black Friday sales.
There is a sea of iPad cases to choose from. That’s why we dove deep into personal and expert research and performed hands-on testing, where possible, to find the best of the best.
See the best iPad Air cases and covers to not only protect your tablet but also help with productivity and functionality and even add a bit of flair.
Also: The best note-taking apps for iPad
The best iPad Air cases of 2025
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The Zugu iPad Air case serves as much more than a light cover, making it my top pick for iPad Air cases today.
Why we like it: It features an adjustable stand with eight configurations, a bumper, and a rugged shell for added drop protection, a stylus pocket, wireless charging, and more. The Zugu case currently comes in nine colors, which is way more options than other cases on the market.
I tested the Zugu case over the last several weeks alongside other options on this list and found it to be my favorite iPad Air case. It’s functional and practical, providing security from bumps and drops. I loved using its stand, especially while testing several note-taking apps this month. The material feels premium and expensive and features a clean, appealing design.
While the function is top-notch, my favorite thing about the Zugu case is the color. I have been using the case in the Desert Rose color, and as a true Gen Z corporate girl, I love it. Many companies don’t cater to colors outside of black, white, tan, and brown, so the unique color choices are awesome.
Who it’s for: Current customers on the Zugu website said they like the overall protection, functionality, quality, value, premium feel, and aesthetic of the Zugu case, making it a top pick for most users.
What’s even better is that Zugu offers a one-time AppleCare+ repair fee if your iPad is damaged while in a Zugu case. Overall, this case is well worth the money as a solid all-around iPad Air case for style and protection.
During the Black Friday sale, the cheapest color option for this case is around $48.
Who should look elsewhere: I do wish they offered more options for prints, and so if that’s what you’re looking for in terms of style, check out another of my recommendations.
Zugu iPad Air Case features: Adjustable stand with eight angles | Bumper and rugged shell for drop protection | Air flow vents | Secure magnetic mount capability | Microfiber interior | Auto sleep/wake magnetic cover | Stylus pocket on back | Wireless Apple Pencil charging compatibility | Free AppleCare+ Repair Fees
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Like Casetify, Burga is extremely popular for iPhone cases, but you shouldn’t overlook the brand’s other protective offerings for devices like the iPad.
Why we like it: If Casetify is like your trendy Gen Z coworker who brings fresh designs and innovative features to the table, consider Burga to be the more sophisticated, sleek, and cohesive millennial with just a few more years of experience.
Burga’s folio case for the iPad Air combines style and function. It features a spot for stylus storage and Apple Pencil charging, has a hard shell backing and a soft close folio front, can be used as a stand, features shock absorption and a raised bezel design, and is overall sleek in profile.
Perhaps the best part of Burga’s case is that it comes in a slew of designs, patterns, and colors. It’s sophisticated but practical and offers enough secure protection for everyday use.
When I tested the Burga case over the last few weeks, I liked its lightweight feel, Apple Pencil storage, folio-style cover, stand configuration, and numerous prints and designs. It’s a great basic case to protect against everyday bumps and scratches, but I recommend upgrading to something more secure, such as an Otterbox or the Zugu case, if you’re accident-prone or rougher around the edges when handling your tech.
Who it’s for: Anyone who wants an affordable, fun, and quality iPad Air case.
I wish the stand options on the case were a bit more comfortable for viewing, though it’s a nice add-on to have the option to prop up my iPad at all while watching a show or video. For the rough $50 price tag though, I think this a great buy for the features you are getting, especially considering a similar folio case from Apple is now around $80 and ones at Casetify start at $92 — not to mention these cases are around 25% off during Black Friday.
Current customers on the Burga website said they like the overall value of the case, with emphasis on the case’s design, build, and quality. Many said they enjoyed the fun patterns and color options — which outdo most other cases mentioned on this list in the color department and compete with the likes of Casetify.
Who should look elsewhere: If you’re looking for more standout functionality and features, read on.
Burga iPad Air Case features: Raised bezel design for camera and screen protection | Apple Pencil storage and charging spot | Variety of colors and styles | Shock absorbing bumper | Stand configurations | Never-fading prints
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Moft Folio cases are among the most unique iPad Air cases I’ve ever tested, and a refreshed design means they are now compatible with modern iPad Air generations.
Why we like it: Moft makes some of the most innovative, origami-inspired mobile and tech accessories I’ve seen.
The Moft Float Folio case features a strong magnetic connection with a sleek and slim design that makes the case feel elevated and upscale. It also comes with a stylus holder and is configured into three unique angled positions, including one standing position as an ultra-high alignment (as pictured), which lifts your iPad higher than most competitors.
The case is a duo system, with a softer outside folio and a harder case set for extra protection. They can be used individually or together and easily removed from each other for quick access, depending on your needs.
When I tested out a Moft case, I especially liked the standing configuration for my iPad Air, which allowed it to be at eye level. It’s perfect for working from home and for video calls.
Who it’s for: Someone who wants a case that stands out from the crowd.
Moft Float Folio users said they like the case’s overall design, quality feel, and functionality, thanks to the unique stand configurations.
You can enjoy up to $50 off sitewide during the Black Friday sale.
Who should look elsewhere: It’s great for productivity, but if you want something more colorful, check out another of my favorites in this list.
Moft Float Folio Case features: Stylus holder | Three unique stand configurations (one ultra high) | Premium construction and feel | Slim profile | Duo case set | Affordable luxury style
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The Logitech Combo Touch is our pick for the best keyboard case for the iPad Air, not in the least due to its more affordable price.
Why we like it: The Combo Touch is full of functional details, including a detachable keyboard, backlit keys, built-in stylus storage, iPad OS shortcut keys, and more. It offers four modes of use: type, view, sketch, and read, to suit any of your iPad activities.
Review: My favorite iPad keyboard and stylus are not made by Apple
When ZDNET’s Senior Reviews Editor Kerry Wan tested the Combo Touch and Logitech Crayon Stylus with the iPad 10th Gen in 2022, he lauded it for its ability to “flex on the Magic Keyboard [Folio].”
“Logitech’s Combo Touch cover and Crayon stylus for the iPad are cheaper and practically better than Apple’s own accessories. [They] are not perfect, but they deliver a more feature-rich experience than Apple’s first-party accessories at a fraction of the cost. That’s not a knock on Apple’s own iPad keyboard and stylus by any means; the two are just as worthy of your consideration,” Wan wrote in his review.
Who it’s for: Current customers on the Logitech website said they liked the top-of-the-line features, overall value, and price point of the Combo Touch case, which has over 100 5/5-star reviews. One customer, like Wan, even said it beat out Apple’s own Magic Keyboard. “This product is exactly what I hoped Apple was going to provide. And, it was at a fraction of the price,” they wrote.
As a result, if you want to get the best out of accessories, this case is for you.
Who should look elsewhere: Even during Black Friday, this case will cost you at least $160, which may sway your decision.
Logitech Combo Touch features: 4 modes (type, view, sketch, read) | Detachable keyboard | Backlit keys | Stylus storage | Full row of iPad OS shortcut keys | 1-year limited warranty | Two viewing angles
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Some people use their iPads to scroll on the couch, but others need a tablet in the field. Whether you work in construction, utilities, or another boots-on-the-ground industry, you might want your iPad Air to be able to venture out with you. Enter the OtterBox Defender Series Pro Case.
Why we like it: With raised edges, it offers drop protection for your screen and camera. The Defender Series Pro case also comes with OtterBox’s silver-based antimicrobial additive, which means your case actively fights bacteria growth.
Finally, the case includes port covers to prevent dirt and dust while you’re in the field from clogging your jacks and ports.
Current users on Best Buy said they like the value, quality, and overall ease of use, giving the Defender case 4.5/5 stars on the site. Many users said they like the secure durability and protection from bumps and scrapes, but some users said they had issues getting their Apple Pencil to stay secure. Plus, new iPad Air 11 and 13-inch Defender series cases are available.
Who it’s for: Anyone who needs a case suitable for more difficult environments or outdoor usage. That being said, take care with your iPad Air — as no case protects against every hazard.
To learn more about this case, you can dig into our review of the iteration of the OtterBox Defender for the iPad Pro.
During Black Friday, you can save a few dollars on this $42 case at Amazon.
Who should look elsewhere: It’s functional, but slightly dull. If you want to inject more personality into your case, look elsewhere.
OtterBox Defender Series Pro Case features: Raised edges for added protection | Antimicrobial additive to reduce bacteria growth | Port covers
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It’s hard to beat a case coming straight from the manufacturer. When you choose the Apple-designed Smart Folio for your iPad Air, you’re not just guaranteed a perfect fit — you also get functionality that makes it easier to both protect and use your tablet, like the ability to charge your Apple Pencil with the case on.
Why we like it: The cover of the Smart Folio features a tri-fold design that comes in eight color options. The tri-fold feature allows you to roll it up with a small bump to make it easy to type on the surface of your tablet. Alternatively, you can fold it as a stand to hold the iPad Air almost vertically for easy viewing.
The Folio’s automatic wake/sleep function feature means that whenever you open the case, your iPad Air display automatically wakes up. When you close it, the tablet goes to sleep, saving battery. You might not need it since the latest generation has up to 10 hours of battery life.
The Smart Folio attaches to your tablet magnetically. That keeps the design slim and lightweight, but it does leave the edges of your iPad Air exposed to damage if you drop it. It is available for iPad Air 10.9, 11, and 13-inch models in several colors.
Also: iPad Air (2022) review: So good I almost regret buying my iPad Pro
Who it’s for: Current Amazon users said they liked the quality, appearance, and fit of the Apple Smart Folio cover, making it a solid option for Apple fans.
Who should look elsewhere: The main drawback here is the typical price, which is a far cry from the most affordable cases out there at $79. Many Best Buy reviewers note that despite the case’s protection, quality, and ease of use, it does have a hefty price tag for a case. That said, during Black Friday, you will pay $40.
Apple Smart Folio features: Auto sleep-wake feature | Magnetically connects to your iPad | Two-stand design | Clean, uncluttered look
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Our pick for best iPad Air case is the Zugu iPad Air case, thanks to its great color options, functionality, and solid protection. Here’s a look at how each of the best iPad Air cases compares.
| Best iPad Air case | Price | Key features |
| Zugu iPad Air Case | $48+ | Adjustable stand configurations, quality construction, large color selection, front cover |
| Burga iPad Air Case | $52+ | Doubles as stand, folio to cover front, Apple Pencil charging, stylus storage, shock absorption |
| Moft Float Folio Case | $60+ | Three stand configurations, sophisticated design and feel |
| Logitech Combo Touch iPad Keyboard Case | $160+ | Detachable keyboard and case, backlit keys, trackpad, stylus storage |
| OtterBox Defender Series Pro Case | $42 | Raised edges protect screen, antimicrobial additive disables bacteria growth |
| Apple Smart Folio Case | $40 | Guaranteed fit, slim design |
*MSRP at the time of publishing. Please note that prices may vary based on retailer and available promotions, sales, or discounts.
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Finding the right iPad Air case for you can be a challenge. Here’s how all our top iPad Air cases compare to each other and why they could work for you. Keep in mind the features you absolutely want or need when searching, it will help narrow down your choices.
| Choose this iPad Air case… | If you want … |
| Zugu iPad Air Case | The best iPad Air case we’ve tested with great protection, value, and functionality. |
| Burgu iPad Air Case | A trendy yet durable iPad Air case that offers essential features for a great price. |
| Moft Float Folio Case | A premium, origami-inspired cover that converts into three unique stand configurations. |
| Logitech Combo Touch iPad Keyboard Case | To convert your iPad Air into a workable laptop. Coming with a keyboard with backlit keys and a trackpad, this model converts your iPad Air into the ultimate productivity tool. |
| OtterBox’s Defender Series Pro Case | A durable iPad Air case built for protection. With raised edges, an included screen protector, and port covers, it’s perfect to take to a job site. |
| Apple Smart Folio Case | The best overall iPad Air case. This option comes straight from Apple, brings a perfect fit, and saves battery via an automatic wake/sleep function. |
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If you’re in the market for an iPad Air case, here’s a few factors to keep in mind:
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Size: It is critical that your iPad case and cover is compatible with your iPad. Check the size of the case to ensure that it will fit your iPad model so it is not too small or too large for your iPad.
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Build: iPad cases and covers can be made out of many different materials. The best iPad Air cases and covers incorporate more durable materials like rubber and polycarbonate plastic. Some may even be rated for drop protection, providing an extra level of durability and security for your device.
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Design: Why not add a little style to your iPad Air? Many of the best iPad Air cases and covers are available in a variety of different colors and patterns, so you can add a splash of personality to your everyday carry if that’s what you’re looking for. Make sure to think about what you want for your iPad.
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Budget: There are many affordable case options available, but there are also some that cost well over $100, depending on design and features. Set a budget for yourself — it will help narrow your search parameters.
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We chose these iPad Air case options considering the following factors and after extensive research into this product category:
- Hands-on testing: When possible, we went hands-on with our recommendations, noting advantages and any drawbacks with each case.
- Customers: We looked at renowned brands and customer reviews — both good and bad — and noted the top-rated iPad Air cases for different wants and needs.
- Cost: We included a range of products suitable for different price points and budgets.
- Features: We also looked for the top nice-to-have features, such as Apple Pencil charging capabilities, keyboards, and multiple stand configurations. We also consider ease of use, functionality, design, and other direct features to ensure we recommend the best for you.
- Compatibility: We included a range of cases suitable for different iPad Air models, with a particular focus on 11- and 13-inch models.
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Latest news
- An Italian retailer asked for customers to return iPad Airs after they were reportedly sold for only $17 each by mistake.
- If your iPad is feeling sluggish, here is a new guide on how to clear its cache and improve performance.
- In a rare event, Apple is laying off employees across its sales teams.
Apple’s latest iPad refresh took place in March 2025, when the tech giant announced a new iPad Air powered by an M3 chip. Previously, the firm’s flagship models were the 6th-generation iPad Air and the 7th-generation iPad Pro models.
The 2024 iPad Air features the M2 chip. In comparison, the 2025 M3 iPad Air comes in an 11-inch model, starting at $599, and a 13-inch model, starting at $799. The 11th-generation iPad was also launched at the same time.
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Yes. The new iPad Air is available in either an 11-inch or 13-inch configuration, which is the same as the two previous versions.
This means that if you purchase a 2025 or 2024 iPad Air, you will need a new case designed for the 11-inch or 13-inch size, or one that stipulates it is compatible with your model.
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The answer is yes and no — it will depend and vary from brand to brand.
If you already have a 10.9-inch case, it won’t hurt to try it on your iPad Air 11-inch and see if it works, but keep in mind that for the best protection, we recommend outfitting your iPad Air in a case that specifically stipulates that it was designed for your particular display size. An ill-fitting case will not provide the same protection as one that properly fits.
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You put a case on your smartphone, so why wouldn’t you put a case on your tablet? Cases and covers ensure the device you spent money on is protected through travel, everyday bumps and bangs, and potential scratches.
Investing in a good iPad Air case is investing in your iPad Air.
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The answer here boils down to how you want to use your iPad Air. If you frequently use your iPad like a mini computer setup to do work, school, or other typing and stylus-driven activities, a keyboard case could be a great option for you — especially if you want to optimize your iPad and upgrade how you can use it.
If you just use your iPad Air for entertainment like catching up on your favorite TV show, an expensive keyboard case is probably not worth your investment.
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While it’s not a hard-and-fast rule that an iPad Air case must include a stand, the vast majority of the products on the market today do. If a stand is a feature you aren’t willing to compromise on, be sure to use that as a way to narrow your search parameters.
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The trick here is confirming that you’re buying a case designed to fit the generation of iPad Air that you’ve purchased. If you bought the 2020 4th Generation Air, it will fit cases for the 2022 5th Generation iPad Air and vice versa, for example, as both the 4th and 5th Gen iPad Airs have the same dimensions and the same button and camera placements.
Just be sure not to accidentally purchase cases designed for other iPad models and display sizes. Reading the specs and features before finalizing your purchase can help avoid any unnecessary or incorrect purchases. Remember, the most important factor is the inch size.
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None of the cases we’ve discussed here will make it safe to dunk your iPad Air. What’s more, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a reputable waterproof iPad Air case on the market today.
It’s also worth noting that Apple doesn’t build in the same level of water resistance as many people might expect. While their later-model iPhones generally offer some water resistance, they make no such claim with their iPad Air. Long story short, your new tablet and water don’t mix.
There are some rugged iPad Air cases around, but don’t take your expensive tablet for a swim anytime soon.
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Most major retailers like Best Buy, Walmart, and Amazon have several iPad Air cases for sale in-store and online. If you’re looking for more bespoke brands, such as Casetify, you may have to look directly at those individual retailers’ sites to see their iPad Air case offerings. But don’t fret — starting your search at ZDNET is always a good decision.
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Latest updates
- November 2025: In ZDNET’s November update, we performed substantial editorial and layout changes.
Alternative iPad Air cases to consider
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Apple’s Magic Keyboard case is the tech giant’s companion for the iPad Pro and iPad Air. It comes in white or black and features a trackpad, USB-C port for charging, backlit keys, and front and back protection. Thanks to a magnetic hold, you can also adjust it to a comfortable viewing angle. Expect to pay around $270 for this premium cover.
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This folio case from ESR comes in eight colors, has a built-in holder for the Apple Pencil, and features a raised screen view. Plus, it’s super affordable and is now priced from only $29. You can also explore different color, style, and iPad model options.
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When I tested the Impact case on the iPad Air, I liked its lightweight, handy Apple Pencil storage, and numerous prints and designs. It’s a great basic case to protect from everyday bumps and scratches, but there’s no screen protection — unless you upgrade to the folio style.
It’s quite pricey at $74. However, you can save up to 50% during Black Friday with the code BLSALE25US.
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More iPad accessories
If you want to optimize your iPad Air’s capabilities, here are a few more accessories to consider — like a screen protector and an iPad stylus — to upgrade your iPad Air’s functionality and protection.
We hope you’ve now found some great options for your new Apple iPad Air case. If you want to explore more of our Apple coverage, check out our top picks for the best iPhones and MacBooks, as well as the best Apple Black Friday deals around.
