The best cases for iPad Air 1

In this article, we bring you a collection of our favourite cases for the original iPad Air, or iPad Air 1 as it’s widely known. If you’re looking for cases for the newer and slimmer iPad Air, visit our round-up of the best cases for iPad Air 2. For other iPads, visit our best cases for iPad article.

Apple has discontinued cases for the iPad Air 1 (it does have  options for the Air 2, however), but there are tonnes of non-Apple alternatives out there. Why not start with this Apple Smart Cover duplicate from JETech?

Like Apple’s Smart Cover, the front flap of the JETech case protects the iPad’s screen, but can also fold into a stand when required. Plus, opening and closing the cover will automatically wake or put your device to sleep. JETech produces this case in wide assortment of colours and also offers a lifetime warranty.

The Acme Made Skinny Book Case for iPad Air is a well-designed, sleek looking case which makes your iPad Air look like a traditional notebook. The case fully protects the iPad Air and has a pop-out stand.

This case is also coated to protect your iPad Air from moisture. And like the JETech Smart Cover, this case from Acme also has auto wake and sleep functionality.

We loved the SurfacePad for iPhone, and now TwelveSouth has released a slim and sleek SurfacePad for iPad Air. Made with soft premium leather, the SurfacePad protects both sides of the iPad Air, and also acts as a stand, thanks to the hidden kickstand. The only downfall to this stunning case is that the edges of your iPad Air will remain exposed.

Another excellent case comes from Mofred. Though it’s not made of genuine leather, it does come with a screen protectors and stylus. 

This case also converts to a stand and lets you position the iPad Air at various angles, so you can choose the height that suits your use best. You can also expect auto wake and sleep functionality with this case.

Mofred’s Executive case comes in rainbow of colours (US shoppers only get this in black, but do get a 100% refund if not satisfied with the case) – from a business professional grey, brown or black to a vibrant purple (pictured), apple green, or pink, you can find a hue to suit your taste.

Snugg’s Folio Keyboard Case offers a combination of both protection and functionality. Not only does it encase your iPad Air in a protective polycarbonate shell, it also offers an independently powered backlit keyboard, which connects to the tablet by Bluetooth. 

You can also rotate it to hide the keyboard and use it just as a viewing stand. Though this particular model is not available in the US, US shoppers can find a similar option from Snugg in red for $39.99.

Another keyboard case option (that’s also easier on the wallet compared to the last option) comes from JETech. This Bluetooth keyboard allows 360 degree rotation – which means you can view your iPad Air in both portrait and landscape mode.

Aside from the functional benefits of a keyboard (with iOS and Apple function keys) this keyboard case also promises 60 hours of continuous use with just one charge, though we haven’t tried this out for ourselves.

Maroo’s leather Kope iPad Air cases feature the case-maker’s patented SG Bumper technology (we’ve seen these cases flung from a catapult with iPads inside and survive thanks to the Bumper tech). They have a hand strap on the back for more secure carrying and an interior pocket ideal for receipts, notes and cards.

The elastic loop is handy for stylus users, and there’s a camera cutout so you’ll be able to take pictures without removing the iPad Air from the case.

Though the red model (pictured) is not available in the US, US shoppers can find a  purple (US$54.37) as well as a black ($57.57) version on Amazon. 

The Defender case for iPad Air is a rugged case that features three layers of protection: a screen protector, a polycarbonate inner layer and a silicone outer layer. It’s likely that it’ll add a bit of bulk to your otherwise super-skinny iPad Air, but it’ll certainly do the trick if you drop your iPad, helping to minimise damage.