The Benefits of iPad Casing
Date Posted:18 May 2013
When smartphones first appeared, many people bought them ‘as is’ and only found out through bitter experience that a case was essential to avoid the bumps and scratches of normal daily use. Now, when we buy an iPad, even though we know they are built sturdily in true Apple fashion, we also buy a case for it, having learnt the lesson that accidents can and do happen.
Protection
The primary purpose of an iPad case is to protect what is a very expensive and delicate device from damage caused by knocks, scrapes and even falls. The whole idea is that, if and when an accident does occur, the damage will be borne by the casing rather than by the iPad itself. Since iPads first appeared, people have admitted to sitting on them, dropping them from heights, leaving them on car hoods and even out in the rain overnight. While not all survived, those that did probably did so because they had a protective case.
Fashion statement
Every iPad looks the same, until you put it in its case. Then it takes on a persona that reflects the personality of its owner. Just as smartphones are the central device in many people’s lives, iPads are becoming just as indispensable, and people are seeking to individualise their ‘best friends’ as much as possible in order to stand out from the crowd.
Functionality
As well as being a protective device, newer iPad cases are becoming more functional and user-friendly as well. Often a case can prevent you from fully using your iPad, unless you remove it from its case, so cases are appearing that not only allow you to access all functions, but to perform new ones as well. Examples include the case that adds a physical keyboard, allowing the iPad to look and work like a notebook; and the case that functions as a holder, allowing you to stand it on a surface at an angle and watch it like a television screen.
Materials
There are many iPad cases available and they are made from a variety of materials. The case you choose will depend a lot on your lifestyle and how you use your iPad. If you are out and about a lot, then you are more likely to subject your iPad to conditions where it could get damaged, so you would be wise to choose a case that provides the best possible protection.
If you only use your iPad at home and there are no hazards such as dogs or small children about, then you could probably get away with a cheaper case, designed more for aesthetics than for protection.
Types
The following are just a few of the many types of cases available for iPads:
- Ultra Light Hard Shell -- made from hard plastic, that protects the back, but not the screen
- Ultra Thin Smarty Complete -- protects the back of the iPad and also has a stand for reading
- Silicrylic Hard Shell -- protects the back and front of the iPad and has a silicone core for added shock absorption
- Leather iPad case -- provides the best look, feel and protection from a variety of hazards, including knocks, spills and stains.