The iPad Air (2020) officially went on sale on 23 October, with a starting price of £579/US$599. Announced at the company’s “Time Flies” event on 15 September, the 2020 iPad Air is a significant redesign for Apple’s mid-range tablet.
The most significant change is a significant slimming of the bezels, giving the device a larger 10.9in screen within the same body as its predecessor. That means there’s no room for the home button, with Touch ID moved to the power button for the first time on any Apple device.
It’s also the first device to come with Apple’s new A14 Bionic chip, and there are some eye-catching new colours to choose from. If you want to keep it protected, here are some of the best cases we’ve found so far. Keep in mind iPad Pro 11 cases should also fit the new iPad Air, so if you have one lying around, there’s no need to buy another one.
Apple Smart Folio – The original
Our first stop is, unsurprisingly, Apple’s official Smart Folio. This has been an ever-present case option for the iPad for years, and with good reason: it adds plenty of extra protection in exchange for very little bulk.
Made from a single piece of polyurethane, it provides all-around protection for the iPad Air. The screen cover can also be folded behind the device to act as a stand for watching videos, typing or joining a call.
In addition to the Black Navy pictured, it’s also available in Cyprus Green, Pink Citrus, White and Black. Once stock arrives, you’ll be able to buy it from the Apple Store for £79/ US$79.
Otterbox Symmetry – Best non-Apple folio
If your budget can’t quite stretch that far, the Otterbox Symmetry provides a very similar experience at a more affordable price.
While the grey and purple colour options aren’t quite as exciting, the blend of hard plastic and TPU gives the case a scratch-resistant design which has been tested for drop protection.
It also has an extra flap included, helping to secure the iPad Air in place when not in use. Once stock arrives, you’ll be able to buy it from the Apple Store for £59.95/ US$69.95
ESR Project Zero – Best budget
Folio covers are by far the only option out there though, and the ESR Project Zero is an entirely different approach to case design.
This clear matte design keeps the stunning back of the iPad Air on show, while at the same time adding some much-needed crack and scratch resistance. It also means the device is less likely to show up fingerprint smudges.
It’s also extremely thin and light, adding very little bulk to the iPad Air.
You can buy it now for £11.99/ US$14.99.
UAG Metropolis – Best rugged
If you’re looking for a more rugged case option, you can’t go wrong with the UAG Metropolis.
A staple of our case round-ups in recent years, it provides military-grade drop protection and 360-degree coverage to keep the iPad Air extremely secure.
There’s also an adjustable stand built-in, allowing you to easily use the device hands-free. In addition to the regular black pictured, it’s available in Cobalt (blue) and Magma (red).
Once it’s in stock, you’ll be able to buy it for £54.99/ US$59.95.
MoKo – Best budget folio
If you’re looking for an affordable option, this MoKo case more than fits the bill.
Made from a hard polycarbonate exterior and soft TPU cover, it protects the iPad Air against accidental drops, scratches, shocks and drops.
Magnetic grooves on the back of the case enable four standing positions to suit whatever you’re doing, while there’s also a dedicated holder for the Apple Pencil.
We particularly like the purple version pictured, but it’s also available in cloud blue and black.
You can buy it now from Amazon UK for £15.99, while in the US prices start at $18.95.
Woolnut Sleeve – Best premium sleeve
Swedish brand Woolnut offers gorgeous leather sleeves that fit a variety of tablets. We’ve used one for the 12.9in iPad Pro and loved the look and feel.
The case is made of full-grain leather, available in black or Cognanc, and with a totally natural wool interior lining. It’s on the pricier side at €84 (around £76.15/US$98.47), but if you’re after a premium-looking sleeve for a premium product, the Woolnut is one we’d certainly recommend!
If you’d like to find out more, here’s everything you need to know about the iPad Air (2020) and our full iPad Air (2020) review too. If you’re ready to make a purchase, check out our where to buy the iPad Air to ensure you’re getting the best price.
Author: Anyron Copeman, Senior Staff Writer
As the resident expert on Windows, Senior Staff Writer Anyron’s main focus is PCs and laptops. Much of the rest of his time is split between smartphones, tablets and audio, with a particular focus on Android devices.