What is the best protective case for any iPad?

Question

Which heavy duty iPad case is actually going to protect my device from a major drop? I need to buy something by tomorrow morning because Im taking my new iPad on a construction site survey this weekend and I am paranoid about smashing it.

Im torn between the OtterBox Defender and the Spigen Tough Armor. The Otterbox is almost 90 bucks which is really stretching my budget but it looks bulletproof, while the Spigen is way cheaper but Im not sure if it actually holds up to concrete drops. Which one is the better bet for rough use?

mwkxqjdppz · Accepted Answer

If youre hitting a job site tomorrow, you might want to consider the Supcase Unicorn Beetle Pro Series Case for iPad 10.2-inch. Honestly, its way cheaper than the big brands but still gives you that full 360-degree protection. I would suggest checking out the UAG Metropolis Series Rugged Case for iPad 10.2-inch too. Its super light but be careful, its still rated for serious drops. Both are solid if youre paranoid about concrete tho... should survive a fall just fine.

WickedWhisper · Answer

Honestly, most of the big name cases these days are pretty disappointing. I bought a cheaper setup last year and the plastic housing cracked on the very first drop, which almost ruined my screen. You really cant cheap out when concrete is involved. If you want real safety without spending ninety bucks, look at the Griffin Survivor All-Terrain iPad Case. Unfortunately, it makes the iPad run a bit hot during long outdoor surveys, but the drop protection is stellar and it costs less than the big brands. Another solid choice is the STM Dux Plus iPad Case. I had some issues with the magnetic flap wearing out over time on mine, but the rubberized bumper corners are incredibly thick. Just make sure to pair whichever one you get with a separate tempered glass screen protector, since built-in plastic ones scratch way too easily.

gluttnwrqq · Answer

Go with the OtterBox. I've been bringing iPads to active job sites for years, and honestly, the cheaper cases just don't cut it when you drop them on concrete or gravel. Here is why you should spend the extra cash on the OtterBox Defender Series iPad 10.2 Case:

Shock absorption: The multi-layer design absorbs heavy impacts much better than the thinner Spigen Tough Armor iPad Case.

Port protection: Otterbox has tight rubber port covers that block concrete dust. Spigen leaves them exposed, which ruins the charging port fast.

The screen shield: The built-in screen protector stops scratches from gravel and tools. Paying 90 bucks now is way better than paying a couple hundred later for a screen replacement. Buy the Otterbox and don't look back.