Best iPad Accessories (2025), Tested and Reviewed | WIRED

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Best Overall Folio Case

An Easy Way to Draw or Write

Comfortable Pencil Grips

Best Cheap Stand-Up Case

One of the best parts of owning an iPad is that you're never short on accessories. There's a wealth of cases, cables, adapters, styli, keyboards, and stands out there to trick out your slate. But what should you buy? I've spent years filling a corner of my tiny New York apartment with boxes of gear to find the best iPad accessories. Whether you’re a longtime iPad owner or recently picked one up after perusing our Best iPad guide, there's something here for you.

Check out our many other buying guides, including the Best iPhone, Best iPhone 16 Cases, Best MagSafe Accessories, Best Apple 3-in-1 Chargers, Best Tablets, and Best Drawing Apps.

Updated February 2025: We've added new accessories including the Zagg Pro Keys 2, ESR Rebound Keyboard Case (13-inch iPad Pro M4), UGreen 145W Power Bank, and Satechi Mouse M1.

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Wait. Which iPad Do You Own?

There are so many iPads out there, it can be hard to identify the exact model you own. Do you have the iPad Pro from 2017 with the 10.5-inch screen? Or the 9.7-inch one from 2016? It doesn't help that Apple avoids the sequential naming structure it uses for the iPhone. But no matter.

Finding your model is simple:

Accessory makers usually indicate what iPad a case, folio, or keyboard cover is designed to work with. Most of our picks below are for the newest hardware, but they're often also available for older iPads. Just search for the product name and your iPad model.

If you see a retailer mentioning a specific generation, this is Apple's current lineup:

It took mere minutes to realize I was looking at the best iPad case I'd ever tried. Zugu has been making iPad cases for a long time, and it has one for practically every model out there. This case feels durable, with a rigid bumper around the edges, and the buttons are easy to press. There's a sizable lip sticking out of the edges to protect the screen if it falls flat, which is nice. The cover is magnetized so it stays shut (and can wake or put the screen to sleep). Flip it around and pull out the flap on the back to magnetically adjust the screen for up to eight (eight!) different angles. Because the cover is rigid and large, it's also one of the most stable iPad cases I've ever used on my lap.

Best of all, since the case is magnetic, you can just stick the whole thing to a fridge and it stays secure. It's well-designed, comes in an array of colors, is reasonably priced, and even has a spot to securely store the Apple Pencil when it's not charging. It's hard to find faults here—Zugu also donates 10 percent of all its profits to charitable causes like Children International. It's also available for the iPad Air (13-inch, M2) and both sizes of the iPad Pro (M4) for $70 and $80, respectively.

The Apple Pencil is one of the most useful tools you can add to the iPad. Specific models work with certain iPads. (Apple has a guide here so you can check compatibility.) It's excellent for drawing, with an imperceptible delay as the Pencil moves across the glass display. Like a normal pencil, your lines get thicker as you press down harder. The Pencil is also great for navigating iPadOS, which has handwriting support in various search fields so you don't need to switch to the keyboard to type—and it's handy for signing or marking up documents.

With the current iPad lineup, there's not much of a reason to buy the first-generation Pencil, which had some drawbacks anyway. The USB-C Pencil has the fewest features—there's no pressure sensitivity so it's useless for sketching, and it doesn't wirelessly pair and charge (hence the built-in USB-C port). It also doesn't have the touch-sensitive controls that let you quickly switch to a previous tool or to open a tool palette. Honestly, the Apple Pencil Pro is often available for not much more and should be the stylus to buy, though it's compatible with far fewer iPads. It has a “squeeze” capability that triggers the tool palette (you can still use double-tap) along with a haptic engine inside that delivers feedback as you squeeze. There's a built-in gyroscope sensor, which allows you to change the orientation of the tools as you twist it (for finer control), and it has support for Apple's Find My Network in case you accidentally lose it.

The in-between that Apple no longer sells (but is still available at other retailers) is the second-gen Apple Pencil. It has broad compatibility with several iPads from the past few years, though it won't work with some of the latest models.

Paperlike's Pencil Grips come in a two-pack. You'll get the Maximum Comfort Grip (designed to reduce fatigue and hand cramps during long drawing or writing sessions) and the Maximum Precision Grip (for better stroke precision and accuracy). I only use the second-generation Apple Pencil for note-taking, so the Comfort Grip made it easier to grasp. It could also be helpful if you have the first-generation Apple Pencil and find the glossy finish too slippery. It's great for sketching, keeps finger fatigue at bay (especially when applying pressure over time), and is comfortable when drawing for long periods.

If you have the second-generation Apple Pencil, the grips won't get in the way of the double-tap feature either. It's worth noting these grips are the first-generation version—Paperlike has since launched a new version that delivers “ergonomic precision” for $20. We haven't tested them yet, but they'll likely be better for those who spend more time sketching on their iPads than writing. These specific grips are ideal if you often switch between the two forms.

Spigen's folio case is bulkier than Apple's official case, but it protects the entire tablet with a bumper covering the edges. There's also a tough back cover made of thermoplastic polyurethane and polyurethane leather, plus a magnetic latch to keep the folio closed. You can convert the display cover into a stand to prop the whole thing up (there are two angle options). When the iPad's in Theater Mode, you won't see much wobble or sliding when tapping the screen. There's a spot to secure the Apple Pencil, but don't worry, the second-gen stylus will still pair and charge. Unfortunately, when you cover the display up, it won't automatically shut it off.

When possible, I put all my screens on arm mounts. Ultrawide monitor? Mounted. iPad? You bet. It clears up the precious space that would've been taken by a pesky stand, and you can adjust the angle and height of the screen. Twelve South's HoverBar Duo delivers this luxury. I mounted it to the side of my bed frame for several months to catch up on Cyberpunk: Edgerunners. The clamp is slim and doesn't need much clearance, so you can attach it to shelves, kitchen counters, or desks.

If you do want to use a stand, Twelve South includes one, and you can easily remove the arm from the clamp and transfer it directly to the stand without needing to take the iPad out. You don't need to choose to use one or the other—you can have the clamp on your bed and stand at your desk and just slot the arm holding the iPad into whichever whenever you want. The arm supported the 12.9-inch iPad Pro as well as the base iPad with no trouble, but if the hinges ever start feeling loose, you can tighten 'em up with the included hex key.

Using a folio case to prop the iPad up can be annoying. That's why I prefer a dedicated stand like this one from Satechi. It has carried my 12.9-inch iPad Pro for more than two years, and the hinges haven't loosened at all. The rubber base prevents it from sliding easily, and there are two hinges to tweak the height and viewing angle of the tablet. It's lightweight enough that you can tote it from room to room—I even packed it with me on a trip to Atlanta.

Cursor support has turned the iPad into a more capable computer, but if you plan on doing work on these tablets, you should invest in a case with a built-in keyboard, trackpad, and kickstand. The Combo Touch fits the bill. It's also detachable, so you can ditch the keyboard when you don't need it and still have a kickstand case. It's impossible to dislike. The whole package is fairly slim, with a lovely fabric texture, and it looks spiffy! The kickstand easily passes the lap test—it didn't wobble much or make the iPad fall off while I (Julian) typed with it on my lap. The backlit keys are helpful if you're in a dark room, and typing on it feels nice. The best part? It connects via Apple's Smart Connector, so there's no need to futz about with Bluetooth or worry about charging it.

Logitech added new versions for the iPad Pro (M4) and the iPad Air (M2). I (Brenda) have been using the Combo Touch with the 13-inch iPad Pro and the experience is the same as with the previous version (although the trackpad is larger on iPad Air and iPad Pro versions). My only gripe is that the Combo Touch for iPad Pro adds a lot of weight to the tablet. Typically, that's not a major issue. But because the new iPad Pro is a lot lighter and thinner than its predecessors, it sort of cancels out one of the best parts of the new iPad. The case itself weighs a little over 1.5 pounds while the iPad Pro (13-inch) weighs 1.28 pounds bringing it to a total of 2.78 pounds—which is more than twice the weight of the tablet on its own.

When I was gifted the iPad Pro (M4) for Christmas, I wanted an accessory that would allow me to use it as my daily driver instead of my MacBook. But I'm not a fan of the current options out there—the Magic Keyboard doesn't come with a case (leaving your iPad exposed whenever you want to use it as a standard tablet), and the Logitech Combo is top-heavy (especially on your lap). I decided to give the ESR Rebound case a chance and haven't looked back. It has a case that protects your iPad and magnetically attaches to a keyboard case, plus a clasp that keeps your Apple Pencil secure. You can orient the iPad in portrait or landscape mode, and there are a few different adjustable viewing angles in each mode. The Bluetooth keyboard has responsive chiclet-style keys and a backlight with multiple colors to choose from. The battery recharges via USB-C and lasts forever—I’ve charged it once in two months. I also like that the trackpad has gesture support and haptic feedback. The purple color is fun too, but it also comes in black, white, and blue.

The keyboard case is still top-heavy, but with some finagling, it can balance on my lap on its own. It’s a little flimsy and bendable—I’d be nervous to pick it up by the corner. At 3 pounds, it adds weight to the iPad, which is a shame since the M4 Pro is so thin and lightweight (a common issue with most cases). For me, those trade-offs are worth it to have a case that keeps my iPad protected, and a keyboard case that didn’t cost an arm and a leg and an elbow and another leg. —Louryn Strampe

I'm very clumsy with my gadgets, so a screen protector is very necessary for my iPad (in addition to a case). I've gone through plenty of them to know the most important feature (aside from durability) is that it's thin enough to feel exactly like the display. That way, I forget it's even there. Casetify's screen protector achieves just that. It's super thin and has excellent touch sensitivity. Casetify claims it's also fingerprint-resistant. I mainly use my iPad for streaming content and FaceTime calls, so I'm constantly poking at the screen. I've wiped minor smudges occasionally but have yet to spot any fingerprints.

Although I typically despise applying adhesive screen protectors, this one was fairly painless. Casetify supplies you with a microfiber cloth, wet and dry wipes, and a de-dusting sticker to make the whole process that much easier.

I've always wanted to use my iPad as a notebook and planner, but the slippery iPad screen made for a frustrating experience. I'd given up on applying matte screen protectors myself (Paperlike included) because I could never do it properly—I was always left with air bubbles and dust underneath. So I was intrigued when I discovered that Astropad's screen protector was reusable—it doesn't permanently stay attached to the screen—and has a paperlike feel. Astropad includes Apple Pencil tips that work specifically with its protector too.

The company's NanoCling technology helps the protector bonds to your iPad using static cling. It's easy to apply—all I had to do was line the corners of the screen protector up with the corners of the iPad and set it down. I could also lift and realign it as much as I needed to get it just right. It feels as satisfying to write on as paper and replicates the experience well. My favorite part, however, is the ability to remove it whenever I want. When I'm done using the tablet to jot down notes or cross tasks off my to-do lists during the workday, I take off the protector and use my iPad to catch up on TV shows at night. It's prone to fingerprints but they're easy to wipe off. The Apple Pencil tips are great too—they're a lot easier to write with than the standard Apple Pencil tip, which is a lot wider.

This Lamicall gooseneck tablet uses a flexible rod you can adjust to your heart's content. It's lengthy enough to move into a variety of angles, and it doesn't loosen up over time. The base is a clamp you can attach to a desk or nightstand. The downside is it's a lot more wobbly when you tap the screen. Still, it's ideal for watching movies or shows in bed without having to lie in an awkward position or hold the tablet up. If you don't want a clamp, I like this floor stand ($70) variant with an extendable height. I've used it in the kitchen while I follow recipes on the screen.

The last thing you want to do after spending hundreds of dollars on the cheapest iPad is to spend more than $100 on a keyboard case. That's where Zagg's Messenger Folio 2 comes in. You get a wonderful, compact keyboard cover with great key travel for a satisfying typing experience. I also like the dedicated keys for going Home, opening up the recent apps menu, and locking the iPad, though it's a shame the keys aren't backlit, and there's no trackpad.

It looks sleek, with a fabriclike exterior (stylus holder included), and your iPad screen will turn off as you close it. There is only one viewing angle, but it stays put on my lap when I type. You also have to recharge the keyboard via USB-C, but mine didn't need a charge for two months, even though I used it for a few hours every day. It connects via Bluetooth, so you can see the remaining battery life through a widget in iPadOS. For the current iPad lineup, it's only available for the ninth- and 10th-gen iPad.

If the price doesn't put you off, this is a rather elegant way to protect your iPad. There's full-grain leather on one side and 100 percent wool felt on the other (and the inside). It feels exquisite. It's roomy enough to fit an iPad with a case on it, and it's available for several generations of the base model slate, including the 10th-gen iPad, the iPad Air, and the iPad Pro. There's a little leather loop to carry your Apple Pencil for extra security. The sleeve has a slot on one side to access the USB-C charging port, but more unique is its ability to double as a stand. It's not the most versatile stand—you only really get one angle—but it did the job on my lap, which is an impressive feat for such a floppy item.

If you don't want to fuss with keyboard cases, Bluetooth keyboards are the way to go. I really love using the K380—and not just because it comes in a fun pink color. It's a quiet but tactile keyboard, and you can connect it to a total of three devices and switch between them quickly. It's slim, lightweight, and portable. Plus, it's powered by two AAA batteries, which lasted four months for me. And … did I mention it comes in pink?

★ Upgrade pick: Want a mechanical keyboard that's lightweight and portable, just like your tablet? My favorite is the Logitech MX Mechanical Mini ($150). It's compact and has satisfyingly clicky keys, plus they're backlit. It recharges via USB-C but I've only had to plug it in once every few months. It connects either via Bluetooth or a USB-A dongle (or with the included USB-C cable), and the connection is reliable and never faltered.

If you want a roomier touchpad, I like Apple's thin and light Magic Trackpad 2. There are no physical buttons. Instead, Apple's Force Touch sensors let you feel various levels of pressure on the pad. You can also use some iPadOS gestures on it, limiting the need to reach for the screen. It's amazingly slim and easy to take with you anywhere. It pairs via Bluetooth and (finally) comes with a USB-C port.

This has been my daily driver with my iPad Pro (M4) for a while now. It especially came in handy while I was testing the Zagg Pro Keys 2 (which doesn't come with a trackpad). It has an ergonomic design that's comfortable against my palm, super responsive buttons, and a smooth scroll wheel. Unlike Apple's Magic Mouse, the Type-C port is conveniently placed on the front of the mouse so you can still use it while it's charging. It has a nice, sleek look as well and comes in different colors, including gold, rose gold, blue, silver, and space gray.

Using your iPad Air or Pro for work or school? You probably need to add more ports, like an HDMI port to hook up the tablet to a bigger 4K screen, or a headphone jack in case you need to use corded headphones. This one from Satechi kills two birds with one stone. It's a hub, so you get an HDMI port, USB-A, 3.5-mm audio port, SD and MicroSD card reader, and a 60-watt USB-C charging port. But it also works as a stand, so you don't need a folio case or separate stand to prop the tablet up.

The hub connects via USB-C (the cable hides away underneath). You can't change the viewing angle, but the stand folds up. It won't take up too much space in your backpack, and it's lightweight. However, if you plan on propping your tablet up vertically for video calls, you'll have to lean forward to get your face in the center of the frame.

This is our favorite portable charger for tablets. It has a 145-watt output and a 25,000-mAh battery capabity, dishing out 100 watts with one USB-C port and 45 watts with the second. It's an excellent power bank that will charge your tablet quickly as well as a MacBook Pro, and it’s reasonably compact, though at 1.1 pounds it's not the most lightweight. It has a small LED screen on the side where you can see how much juice is left in the battery.

OWC's portable NVME solid state drive (SSD) is speedy, with an aluminum build that feels extremely durable. It's also IP67 water-resistant, so a drop in a river or accidentally spilling your mocha Frappuccino all over it won't destroy your files. Did I mention it's tiny? It's a little larger than a tin of Altoids. OWC includes a USB-C to USB-C cable, but the cable also has a USB-A adapter so you have some connectivity variety from the get-go. Storage starts at 240 GB, but you can go all the way up to a 2-terabyte model. Check out our Best Portable Storage Drives guide for more.

Apple hasn't nixed the charging adapter from its iPads yet (at least, in the US), but it probably won't be long before you'll need to start buying your own. Or maybe you just want a spare for another room. I like this tiny adapter from Anker. The 30 watts can fast-charge the iPad Pro despite the compact size and the plug folds in, making it a nice option to take on the go.

If you're rough on your tech, Apple's charging cables aren't going to last. These USB-C to Lightning and USB-C to USB-C Nimble cables are great. They're rated to carry 60 watts of power, made from certified recycled plastic and aluminum (BPA- and PVC-free), and they're affordable. I also think they're some of the most attractive cables around, thanks to the knit fabric design. You can snag 'em in 1-, 2-, or 3-meter sizes (around 3, 6.5, and 10 feet). Check out our Best USB-C Cables guide for more.

If you're like me, you're constantly dismissing the "iCloud storage is full" notification from your iPhone. Maybe it's time to offload last year's travel pics to the iPad to clear out space. Flash drives are always handy for transferring data on the go. This one from SanDisk has various storage options (going all the way up to 256 gigabytes). It has a Lightning port on one end and USB-C on the other—great if you want to use it with your iPhone. If you need Lightning and USB-A, I also like the iXpand Flash Drive Go ($45).

You'll need to download SanDisk's iXpand app for the drive to be registered, but transferring files is smooth afterward. Alternatively, if you plug it into an iPad via a hub, you can easily access data with Apple's Files app. Read our Best USB Flash Drives guide for other options.

A keyboard case feels like it's a necessity with the iPad nowadays, and if you're using one in an active area, then it's worth snagging the Rugged Pro Connect case. It's bulky but super protective of the iPad—even protecting the screen. The case connects to the keyboard via Apple's Smart Connector, though it requires some precise aligning to get it hooked up. Once it's in place, start typing away! It's nice to type on, there's no Bluetooth to worry about, and you don't have to recharge the keyboard. There's a Lightning port on the right side edge that'll pass-through charge the iPad (it's only available for the seventh-, eighth-, and ninth-gen iPads).

The case is IP42-rated so you should be safe from spills, and there's a little spot to carry the Apple Pencil if needed. The screen does require a firmer press, but that might be worth the added peace of mind.

Twelve South StayGo Mini

Ports are a problem on the iPad. With just one USB-C port on most of them, you can't charge and use other accessories at the same time. We like the Satechi hub mentioned above a lot, but here are a few others we've tested and like. Read our Best USB Hubs and Docks guide for more recommendations.

Twelve South StayGo Mini USB-C Hub for $60: This tiny USB-C hub might be all you need, and it's seriously compact. It's a little taller but narrower than a Zippo lighter, and you get a 4K HDMI port, a USB-A, an 85-watt USB-C port with pass-through charging, and a headphone jack. I had trouble fitting it on an iPad protected by a case, but Twelve South includes a female USB-C to male USB-C cable that solves this issue.

Hyper HyperDrive 6-in-1 Dongle for $100: It has a 60-watt USB-C port, USB-A, MicroSD slot, SD card slot, 3.5-mm audio, and 4K 60-Hz HDMI. You can stick it into your iPad's USB-C port and have it sit flush and firm with the edge or swap to a flappy, short cable. You need the cable if you have a case on your iPad, and Hyper provides the screws and screwdriver to swap the part out (it took me two minutes). Just remember to unplug it when you're not using it, as it will slowly drain your tablet's battery.

Satechi USB-C Hybrid With SSD Enclosure for $90: Satechi's four-port hub is a little too large, considering the number of ports you get, but there's a good reason for that. Pop off the aluminum cover and you'll find a slot for an M.2 SATA solid-state storage drive (SSD) slot. That means access to an external SSD, along with two USB-A jacks, one 100-watt USB-C pass-through charging port, and a 4K HDMI at the same time. I did not have an M.2 SATA drive to test, but this 1-terabyte card should work. Just know that Satechi's hub does not support NVMe M.2 cards.

Anker USB-C to Ethernet Adapter for $23: Most people won't need an Ethernet port on an iPad, but maybe you're taking a stab at some cloud gaming on your tablet. If so, you'll need the fastest speeds you can get so your games appear in the highest quality possible. This simple, aluminum USB-C to Ethernet dongle delivered around 700 Mbps download speeds on the iPad Pro in my home, which is what my desktop PC usually hits.

iPad accessories are endless. Here are some other options that are perfectly fine—though some have issues that put them down a rung.

Zagg Pro Keys 2

Zagg Pro Keys 2 Keyboard Case for $150: Zagg's case isn't as elegant as Logitech's system, but you can connect it via Bluetooth to two different devices (7/10, WIRED Review). That means you'll need to recharge the keyboard case via USB-C. It's more protective, thanks to the folio cover, and it's a detachable system with a case that’s separate from the slate. But it's a lot bulkier. The second-generation version doesn't come with a trackpad either, so you'll have to supply your own mouse. This one is only available for the iPad Pro (M4) but you can still purchase the first-gen version for the ninth-gen iPad, iPad Air (including the 11-inch iPad Air with M2), and 11-inch iPad Pro, as well as the 12.9-inch iPad Pro.

Nomad Modern Leather Case for $60: Nomad's case is available for the iPad Pro models (it's only available in the Folio version for the iPad Air). It's an easy way to add basic protection to your slate while classing it up. The bumper is made of thermoplastic elastomer and is slightly raised (though not enough to adequately protect the screen). I love the full-grain leather look and feel, and it's been developing a nice patina over time.

Logitech Crayon Stylus for $69: Apple Pencil not striking your fancy? This Logitech Crayon is slightly more affordable option, It's especially great for kids because it's thicker yet maintains great palm rejection, decent (but not identical) pressure sensitivity, and low latency. Logitech has updated it with USB-C support, so now you can truly ditch that Lightning cable.

Twelve South Compass Pro iPad Stand for $30: This iPad stand is a little more travel-friendly than the Satechi we recommend above. It's lightweight and takes up very little room in a bag. You can angle it however you want with the back leg, and the metal build and silicone grips keep it steady. I tested it with the 12.9-inch iPad Pro, and it had no trouble holding the device, though I do wish the back leg's hinge had more resistance, as it would sometimes change positions when I lifted the slate off.

Incipio SureView Case for $50: This case is only available for the ninth and two previous generation base iPads. Unlike most folio cases, the cover flap doesn't fold at the back. Instead, you lay it out and the polycarbonate case can attach to magnetic notches that allow for four different viewing angles. It works better on laps than Spigen's case we recommend above, but it also takes up more room on a desk.

Paperlike Screen Protector for $45: This screen cover goes over your iPad's screen to mimic the texture and friction of sketching on paper. Former WIRED reviewer Jaina Grey said the film is harder to apply than a typical screen protector (make sure you clean your iPad's screen thoroughly before!). But when you're done, it adds enough resistance that you'll find it hard to go back to drawing on glass.

Mageasy CoverBuddy Case (iPad Pro) for $65: Mageasy's case is compatible with Apple's Magic Keyboard case and is a great option if you want extra protection for your iPad without adding too much bulk. Like the ESR Rebound case, you can attach and detach it from the Magic Keyboard case without losing out on the extra protection. It comes with a slot for the Apple Pencil Pro or the USB-C version. There's also the CoverBuddy Lite for the iPad Air (M2).

OtterBox Defender Series Rugged Case for $90: Want a more protective case? Get the OtterBox Defender. It's available for the previous-gen iPad, 10th-gen iPad, iPad Mini, iPad Air, and iPad Pro models. There's a built-in screen protector and covers for the charging port, volume rockers, and Apple Pencil. There’s also an outer shell with a kickstand you can clip on if you want to prop up the iPad. It’s far too clunky for my personal use, but you'll be hard-pressed to find more protection for your slate.

Apple Smart Folio for $79: These slim cases and covers from Apple do the job just fine and can even convert into kickstands to prop up your tablet. They're also some of the best options for the iPad Mini.

Apple Magic Keyboard for $299: If not for its price, this would be one of the better iPad case and keyboard options. It feels great to type on, the trackpad integrates seamlessly into iPadOS, and it even has a USB-C port. It’s a bit bulky, but it’s a great accessory to keep on hand when you need to do some serious typing. Its works with the iPad Air (including the M2 version) and iPad Pro. There's also a folio version available for the 10th-gen iPad.

Apple Magic Keyboard (2nd-gen) for $349: This one is even more expensive than the first-gen. It's also only compatible with the iPad Pro (M4). But the upgrades are really nice. There's a larger trackpad, an aluminum palm rest, and a row of Function keys. It's also thinner and lighter, which is ideal seeing as how the same applies to the latest iPad Pro. However, as with its predecessor, this case is still a little top-heavy.

Moft Float Case for $60: This protective case has a real stand that sits flush on the back. Pull it out and you can prop the tablet up at a decent height and even change the viewing angle (it works in portrait or landscape orientation). It's wobbly when you tap the screen in floating mode, but I didn't find this too annoying. It is tough to pull out the stand, but I bite my nails, so this might not be an issue for you.

SaharaCase Folio Case for $30: We tested this case for the iPad Mini, but you can also get it for the ninth-gen iPad and iPad Pro (both models). On the outside is an automatic sleep/wake cover that doubles as a kickstand to prop up the iPad. There’s also a really nice marble pattern on the front and back that makes it stand out. You can also stow the Apple Pencil on the inside, so you don't have to worry about it falling off.

Speck Balance Folio Case for $45: This features built-in grooves for various adjustable angles, as well as a removable camera cover. There’s a latch in place of a magnetic cover and the Apple Pencil slot sits on the outside. It's not the most stylish, but it's protective and lightweight. The grooves are also great for those who use their iPads to watch content. It's available for the Air, 11-inch Pro, 12.9-inch Pro, and the ninth- and 10th-gen iPad.

OtterBox Symmetry Series 360 Case for $90: This folio for the base ninth- and 10th-gen iPad and iPad Air fixes everything I didn't like about our top Spigen pick, but it's pricier. The clear back lets the iPad's design come through, and while the display cover can fold into the same two viewing angles, covering the screen actually puts it to sleep here. The folio's latch keeps the whole thing tightly closed, and it also holds any Apple Pencil. The latch does kind of flop around when it's not closed, though. I don't recommend buying the Symmetry Series 360 Elite cases for the iPad Pro, as they're not pleasant to use.

Casetify Selfie by Bonnie Lu Ultra Impact Folio Case for $74: If you're looking for an iPad case that offers great protection and has adorable prints to choose from, look no further than Casetify's lineup. We've been obsessed with this Selfie by Bonnie Lu case for a few months now—it packs extra protection on all four corners of the device and can withstand drops up to 4 feet, plus the artwork is super cute. It has grooves on the front cover, too, allowing you to adjust the angle of the iPad. We tested this case for the iPad Air, but you can also get it for the 10th-gen iPad, iPad Mini, and iPad Pro (both models).

Paperlike Charcoal Folio Case for $65: Designed to feel like a sketchbook, the Folio Case has a polyester fabric cover that feels super high-quality and lightweight. It can also be used to prop up your iPad at two different levels. This case doesn't come with an Apple Pencil slot, but the large flap closure keeps it from falling out. Although we only tested the Folio Case with the iPad Air, it's also available for iPad Pro (both models).

Logitech Keys-To-Go 2 Tablet Keyboard for $80: If you don't want a keyboard case, this is a solid alternative. It's a compact, lightweight, and slim external keyboard that comes with a built-in protective cover. The low-profile scissor keys feel nice to type on, and there's a convenient shortcut row for functions like volume, screen brightness, emoji, and more. When using it, you're supposed to flip the cover behind the keyboard—which gives it height for a more comfortable experience. Because the cover has a soft texture, however, it adds bounce when typing. I'm not a huge fan of it, but others might not be as bothered by it. It's also a bit expensive compared to other options.

These are the iPad accessories we suggest avoiding.

Zagg Pro Stylus 2 for $80: The Zagg Pro Stylus 2 is cute and all, especially in the Yellow No. 2 design, but at $80, you may as well buy the second-gen Apple Pencil or Apple Pencil Pro since they often dip in price. With no support for pressure sensitivity, you also have to tilt the stylus to achieve thick or thin lines—but it doesn't feel seamless.

Moft Snap Float Folio for $60: Honestly, the idea behind this case is smart, but it's just a little too annoying to use. It's slim and barely feels protective, and you can fold it in different ways to prop up your iPad at four angles—kind of like origami. It's difficult to remember the exact methods for some of these modes at first, but I got used to them, though I had to readjust it on the iPad too many times.