Update, 11/20/2022: We’ve reviewed our recommendations and have updated our best premium and best rugged choices.
What to Look For in an iPad Pro Case in 2022
The iPad Pro’s aluminum body and glass front are prone to scratches, dents, and in some extreme cases, bending as well. A case is a must if you want to protect your iPad Pro and keep it running for years to come.
A good case also lets you prop up your iPad Pro like a stand for watching movies or browsing the web. It lets you elevate your iPad Pro on an angle to facilitate typing. Some cases give you even more flexibility when it comes to the viewing angle. Plus, some cases will store and protect your Apple Pencil, keeping it right where it needs to be—near your iPad.
Thankfully, there’s a case for every need out there, and we have curated the best protective cases for you below! No matter if you need something simply protect your iPad or if you’re looking to turn it into a work powerhouse, we’ve got you covered.
We have every use case covered except for one with a built-in screen protector. Manufacturers have not updated their built-in screen protectors to support the 2021 iPad Pro. If you need a screen protector, it’s best to get a tempered glass screen protector separately, as it can pair with any case in our list.
Note: This roundup is for 12.9-inch iPad Pro. Due to the difference in case, these cases cannot be used with the 11-inch iPad Pro, nor can they be used with any other model of the iPad.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I clean an iPad Pro case?
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A hard case made from polycarbonate, TPU, or similar plastic can be wiped clean with a soft, slightly damp cloth. Adding a small amount of dish soap will usually help if the case is very dirty or greasy. Leather, suede, and other natural materials should only be cleaned with the appropriate cleaning solutions.
How do I connect an iPad Pro keyboard case?
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Ensure the keyboard case is in pairing mode according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Enable Bluetooth on your iPad Pro, wait for the scan to find the keyboard, and tap Pair. If you’re using an Apple Smart Keyboard Folio, it should automatically connect when you attach the iPad.
How do I get my iPad Air into the case?
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Check the iPad is lined up with the cutouts on the case. Press one of the short edges into the case, and then slide your fingers along each of the longer sides, pressing the iPad into the case as you go. This is the best method for an iPad Pro, as it avoids twisting the tablet.
How do I measure an iPad Pro for a case?
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Do iPad Pro 5th generation cases fit the iPad Pro 6th generation?
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The 5th and 6th generations of the iPad Pro are externally identical, so a case that fits a 5th generation 12.9-inch model will also fit the 6th generation 12.9-inch device.
Best iPad Pro 12.9-inch Case Overall: Zugu Alpha Case
Pros
- ✓ Superior build quality
- ✓ Reputed brand
- ✓ Ten pre-set viewing angles
- ✓ Two Apple Pencil slots
- ✓ Works as a magnetic dock
Cons
- ✗ The 12.9-inch iPad Pro might be too heavy for the magnets
- ✗ Only available in Black
What makes an iPad Pro case great? It starts with the basics like the build quality and brand reputation. Then there are nice-to-haves, the features that really set the case apart. The Zugu Alpha Case is the one that delivers on all fronts.
Zugu is a reputed case maker that has consistently delivered high-quality protective cases year after year. They have thousands of glowing reviews on Amazon, so you know that people use these cases day in and day out.
The Zugu Alpha Case has a hard TPU shell and features bumpers that protect it from falls. Unlike Apple’s own Smart Folio, the Alpha case covers the entire iPad Pro, including the edges. The front cover has a satisfying click to it, and there’s a flap that helps you easily open the cover (which also wakes up the iPad Pro automatically).
The Alpha Case has the basics down, but what really makes it stand out is the details. Zugu hits it out of the park when it comes to viewing angles, with ten different angle configurations and a built-in kickstand.
Plus, there are two ways to dock your Apple Pencil. You can dock it at the top of the iPad (like you normally would), or you can use a sleeve at the back where you can slide in your Apple Pencil, keeping it safe when you’re out and about with your iPad Pro.
Lastly, the Alpha case has a magnetic dock, so you can stick it on magnetic surfaces, and it will supposedly stay there. Some users have reported that the weight of the 12.9-inch iPad Pro is a bit too heavy for these magnets, so maybe don’t stick it too high on your fridge before testing it.
Combining all the features above and Zugu’s build quality makes this our pick for the best case for the 12.9-inch iPad Pro. The only real downside? You can only get it in black!
Best Overall
Zugu Alpha Case 2021
This hardshell TPU case has airflow vents, a stand, and an Apple Pencil holder, and protection all around the iPad Pro. It looks really great, too.
Pros
- ✓ Protects the entire iPad Pro
- ✓ Magnetic cover aligns properly
- ✓ The flap protects the Apple Pencil
Cons
- ✗ Only two viewing angles
Finding a good budget case for the iPad Pro is tricky. You want something that augments the fit-and-finish of your iPad Pro without breaking the bank. ESR Ascend Trifold Case delivers just that at under $20.
The ESR Ascend Trifold case only does a few things, but it gets them right. This is a classic, full-body case. It has a translucent textured finish at the back that matches the color of your iPad Pro, and it comes in Black, Forest Green, and Grey.
The case protects the edges of the iPad Pro, and the cutouts line up perfectly. The buttons have a nice, clicky feel, and there’s a gap to dock your Apple Pencil.
The problem with most budget iPad Pro cases is the magnetic cover itself. With most budget cases, the cover doesn’t align properly, as there is either a gap or a protruding lip. The ESR Ascend Trifold works around this with an extended magnetic flap that claps in the back using a separate magnet. This means that the flap is locked in once the cover is closed. If you use an Apple Pencil, this flap also protects it from falling off.
The only real limitation is the trifold cover design itself. Unlike other cases with built-in kickstand cover designs, the Ascend case only works in two positions. You can fold the trifold cover to prop up the iPad Pro as a stand, or you can roll it up beneath the iPad Pro to use it on a slight angle, in a typing mode. If you can look past that, the ESR Ascend Trifold case is a keeper, especially at this price point!
Best Budget
ESR Trifold Case
ESR’s iPad Pro case will protect your screen when not in use and double as a stand for just $20 MSRP.
Pros
- ✓ Genuine American full-grain leather
- ✓ Cover supports auto sleep/wake
- ✓ Integrated stand with multiple viewing angles
- ✓ The strong internal silicone frame adds support
Cons
- ✗ Expensive compared to a standard iPad case
- ✗ Leather can be easily marked
The iPad Pro is a premium tablet, so why not protect it with a premium case? And if you’re looking for high quality and an elegant look, this genuine leather TORRO case undoubtedly fits the bill.
The folio-style case is handcrafted using premium US full-grain leather and is available in several colors, ranging from more traditional browns to elegant red and classy blue. TORRO deliberately keeps the treatment of the leather to a minimum, which allows for a natural finish that will take on character and patina as it is used.
A precision-cut internal silicone frame holds your iPad Pro firmly in place without detracting from the premium look. The frame perfectly fits the iPads’ buttons, ports, and speakers, and has a groove along the top edge for your Apple Pencil to sit in and charge.
The screen cover is lined with soft microfibre material to prevent scratches and fully supports auto wake/sleep. When opened, the cover folds back to double as a stand, with three raised ridges to let you prop up the tablet for various viewing angles.
The TORRO iPad Pro case is a premium product with a fairly premium price tag. But although it isn’t cheap, we think it’s worth every cent.
Best Premium iPad Pro 12.9-inch Case
TORRO Leather iPad Pro Case
An elegant and attractive case with a premium finish. Perfect for keeping your iPad Pro 12.9in safe without compromising on style.
Pros
- ✓ Best in class typing experience
- ✓ Built-in trackpad for increased productivity
- ✓ iPad Pro snaps easily using magnetic connector
- ✓ USB-C port for pass-through charging
- ✓ Up to an 130 degree viewing angle
Cons
- ✗ Doesn’t protect the sides of the iPad Pro
- ✗ Magnet could be stronger
- ✗ USB-C port doesn’t allow for data transfer
- ✗ $100 more expensive than competition
You’ll need a keyboard to get some work done on the iPad Pro. And what’s better than getting a keyboard case and protecting your iPad Pro simultaneously?
As keyboard cases go, nothing comes close to Apple’s own Magic Keyboard Case (which comes in Black and White). While it’s $100 more expensive than competitor keyboard cases like the Brydge 12.9 MAX+, the Magic Keyboard Case is well worth the asking price.
Dock in your iPad Pro into your case using the magnetic Smart Connector, and you’re good to go. That’s it! Once it’s docked, you get access to a built-in USB-C connector that’s helpful for pass-through charging using the Smart Connector. You, unfortunately, can’t transfer data with this connector, though.
Once docked and opened, the iPad Pro floats on top of the keyboard. While this looks cool, it also means that it’s effortless to change the angle of the iPad Pro. You can tilt your iPad Pro up to 130 degrees, a good range for most of the tasks you want to do.
If you’re used to typing on the MacBook keyboard, you’ll find yourself at home. Plus, the built-in trackpad will give you a cursor on the iPad Pro, enhancing your productivity.
There’s a bit of sticker shock with the price, but the Apple Magic Keyboard is worth it for the iPad Pro’s best keyboard and productivity experience.
Best Keyboard Case
Apple Magic Keyboard
If you need a keyboard case, you can’t go wrong with the Apple Magic Keyboard. It’s expensive, but feels just like you’re typing on a MacBook.
Pros
- ✓ Rigid backplate and impact absorbing AiroFoam
- ✓ Integrated stand with 4 viewing angles
- ✓ Space to store your Apple Pencil
- ✓ Sleek and elegant design
Cons
- ✗ Expensive, even for a rugged case
If you want to give your iPad Pro the best protection without it looking like it’s wearing a suit of body armor from a sci-fi movie, the Mous iPad Pro Case is a great choice.
The design of the Mous case is very understated. There are some obvious protective raised edges around the screen and camera, but otherwise, it looks much like a standard iPad case. But don’t be fooled by the lack of bulk, protruding corner guards, and armor plates, this is one tough iPad cover.
The protection comes from the rigidity of the backplate and a layer of dense but light Airofoam designed to absorb the force of impact. This combination of features provides cushioning if the iPad is dropped but, more importantly, also prevents twisting damage that often results in screen fractures.
The screen cover, held in place by a magnetic tab when closed, folds back to act as a stand. Unlike some iPad cases that only give you two stand positions, here you have four, making it easy to do everything from typing to watching movies.
Mous are specialists in creating protective cases, which is evident in this iPad cover. It certainly isn’t a cheap option, but if you want to give your Apple tablet the best chance to survive an accidental drop, it’s money well spent.
Best Rugged iPad Pro 12.9-inch Case
Mous iPad Pro 12.9 Case
A nicely-designed and superbly protective iPad Pro case from a brand well-known for building reliable products. If you want to give your iPad Pro the best chance to survive heavy use, the Mous case is a great choice.
Best with iPad Pro 12.9-inch Case Apple Pencil Holder: ESR Pencil Case
Pros
- ✓ Builds on top of the excellent ESR Ascend Trifold case
- ✓ Protects the entire iPad Pro
- ✓ Has a separate slot for Apple Pencil
Cons
- ✗ Only supports two viewing angles
If you use your Apple Pencil with your iPad Pro constantly, you need to protect the stylus from falls and scratches just as much as your tablet. While the Apple Pencil magnetically attaches itself to the iPad Pro, it’s not exactly a strong connection, and It can fall off quite easily.
Plus, the most important and sensitive part of the Pencil, the tip, is exposed to the elements. Given the Apple Pencil’s cost, you don’t want it to get damaged.
ESR’s Pencil Case takes care of all these issues. The Pencil case builds on top of ESR’s Ascend Trifold Case featured above. But instead of a magnetic flap, it adds an extended TPU section that houses your Apple Pencil.
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Drop the Apple Pencil in the slot, and it will charge automatically. There’s no getting it out from the front, but thankfully, there’s a slot at the back of the case where you can push the Pencil out using a finger. You know the Pencil won’t fall out and get lost easily!
The ESR Pencil Case also gets the fundamentals right, and it comes in Black, Gray, and Pine Green colors for a bit of variety. It protects the entire body of the iPad Pro using strong TPU material, and it features a standard trifold cover that lets you put your iPad in a stand and typing position. This case does everything you need while protecting your Apple Pencil.
Best Case with Apple Pencil Holder
ESR Pencil Case
Get some great protection and hold your Apple Pencil at the same time with ESR’s Pencil Case. Few cases make sure to protect the delicate Apple Pencil, but this one does it for cheap.
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