Best cases for iPad Air 13-inch and 11-inch (M2) in 2024

After a two-year hiatus, Apple has finally unveiled the all-new iPad Air M2 lineup. This exclusive release introduces two new display sizes and a new XDR retina display, a feature previously limited to the iPad Pro lineup. However, with the superior display and a powerful M2 chip comes the responsibility of protecting the iPad Air against bumps and drops. To help you with it, I have curated this list of the best iPad Air 13-inch and 11-inch cases you can order right now.

Best cases for iPad Air 13-inch and 11-inch (M2)

To prepare this list, I considered various factors such as weight, material, protection, compatibility, and practicality.

After hours of testing and research, I have found the best iPad Air (M2) cases for various use cases, including 11-inch and 13-inch sizes. Read the descriptions of each product and pick one that perfectly meets your requirements!

Apple Smart Folio case
Spigen Air Skin Pro
ESR Ascend Keyboard case
Otterbox Defender Series
ESR Classic hybrid back case

1. Apple Smart Folio case

Compatibility: iPad Air 11-inch and 13-inch (M2)
Product type: Smart folio
Material: Polyurethane
Weight: NA
Additional features: Wide range of viewing angles when folded

The Apple Smart Folio case perfectly fits your iPad Air M2 and provides reliable protection from both the front and the back. Its minimalistic design makes it ideal for users who prefer simplicity and sophistication.

While 0.45kg seems heavier, it is justifiable when considering the cost of the iPad and the protection this case offers. Along with top-notch protection, the Folio case offers a wide range of folded viewing angles. You can use it as a stand to attend FaceTime calls or watch your favorite web shows.

Moreover, the cover automatically wakes up the iPad when you open it and puts it back to sleep when you close it, eliminating the need to press the power button.

Price: $79

View at Apple: 13-inch iPad Air |11-inch iPad Air

2. Spigen Air Skin Pro

Compatibility: iPad Air 11-inch and 13-inch (M2)
Protection: Air Cushion Tech for extra drop protection
Material: PC, TPU, and premium vegan Velo leather
Weight: 0.31 kg
Additional features: Built-in Apple Pencil holder and triangle fold stand, sleep/wake functionality

The Spigen Air Skin Pro case for iPad Air M2 is the right choice if you want to flaunt your iPad Air’s unique color while protecting it from bumps and scratches.

The case offers a unique yet minimalistic design with a built-in Apple Pencil holder. So, you don’t have to worry about finding your Apple pencil the next time you want to jot down notes or make a sketch.

The Air cushion corners and vegan Velo leather built on the front provide reliable protection without sacrificing style.

Price: $64.99

View at: Spigen

3. ESR Ascend Keyboard case

Compatibility: iPad Air 11-inch (M2)
Protection: Military-grade protection
Material: NA
Weight: 1.05 kg
Additional features: Supports Pencil 2 magnetic pairing, dedicated keyboard with trackpad, long-lasting battery, detachable back case

If getting things done is your top priority, you simply can’t go wrong with the ESR Ascend keyboard case. Whether you are typing emails on the go, working on a project in a cafe, or watching your favorite Twitch streamer’s stream, this detachable keyboard case offers the versatility and protection that your iPad needs.

With a long-lasting battery, a backlit keyboard for low lighting conditions, and a freely adjustable stand, this cover is a must-have accessory for your M2 iPad Air.

Price: $119.99

View at: Amazon

4. Otterbox Defender Series

Compatibility: iPad Air 11-inch (M2)
Protection: Military-grade protection
Material: Polycarbonate, Synthetic Rubber, and Polyester
Weight: 0.44 kg
Additional features: Port covers, added touchscreen protection, tablet stand

If durability is your biggest concern, the Otterbox Defender Series case for iPad Air 2024 delivers military-grade protection against bumps, drops, and shocks. The case features a multi-layer construction, adding an extra protection layer to your iPad’s XDR Retina display.

One thing that sets this case apart from others on this list is that it comes with port covers to keep out dust and debris, making it perfect for users who work or travel in a rugged environment.

The case also comes with a tablet stand, so you can FaceTime with your friends or watch your favorite movies while still doing the other important tasks at hand.

Price: $71.96

View at: Otterbox

5. ESR Classic hybrid back case

Esr classic hybrid back case for ipad air

Compatibility: iPad Air 13-inch (M2)
Protection: Hybrid protection
Material: TPU, flexible polymer frame
Weight: NA
Additional features: Supports Pencil 2 magnetic pairing and charging via recessed side groove

The ESR classic hybrid back case offers the traditional clear design while not compromising the protection it needs to offer. It has raised edges, a camera guard to protect against unwanted scratches, and shock-absorbing Air Guard corners for added drop protection.

Also, unlike other covers on this list, this one comes with full Apple Pencil 2 support, meaning you can magnetically charge your Apple Pencil 2 without taking off the case.

Yes, not having a dedicated folding stand is a disadvantage. But if you are even a little like me, who prefers to keep the original and sleek look of the device, you simply can’t go wrong with this one.

Price: $16.99

View at: Amazon

Signing off…

These are the best cases for iPad Air (M2) 13-inch and 11-inch that you can pick right now. Whether you prioritize style and the device’s original look or want to boost your productivity to the max, there is a case on this list to suit your needs.

Choose the one that best suits your needs and ensures your iPad Air M2 remains safe, secure, and stylish for years to come.

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