I originally got my iPad 4 with an Apple Smart Cover (now only available in gray) and while it is adequate, it doesn’t really provide the protection that I want. To take a step up, I decided to try the Snugg iPad Case Cover and Flip Stand and I am glad I did because it offers more functionality and much better protection, convenience, and style.
The Snugg iPad case comes in a rainbow of colors (I chose Red) and is made of PU Leather which is leather with a thin layer of embossed polyurethane on top which is easier to clean. I was impressed by the rich leather feel and the vibrant color with contrasting white stitching for a sporty look. As far as basic functionality it has all the features of the Apple Smart Cover with the magnetic flap/lid and "Wake on open. Sleep on close." However, there is much more as this video from Snugg illustrates:
Some highlights of the Snugg case:
Access to Controls and Ports: All ports, controls, and cameras were fully accessible although the volume control is closely bordered by the protective bezel and back covers.
Interior: You may not see it but your iPad does and the Snugg case has a soft nubuck interior with the iPad held firmly in it with a velcro closure.
Stand: The stand is created by tucking the lid into the tab on the back of the Snugg case as shown in the video. It can be arranged at two angles as shown in the pictures and video. The shallower angle was fine and more sturdy than the Apple Smart Cover. I won’t use the steeper upright position on the Apple Smart Cover since it seems unstable. It was better with the Snugg cover but I still found it difficult to set up and it seemed less sturdy than the other position due to the flap hinge.
Stylus Loop: I use a stylus almost exclusively with my iPad and I really appreciate the stylus loop (stylus not included – Snugg sells them separately if you need one) for holding a stylus to the case so I can keep track of it. The loop can be tucked away if you don’t want to use it.
Hand Strap: One of the difficulties with an iPad is the considerable strain on your arm and wrist that comes from holding it one handed. The Snugg iPad case has a convenient elastic hand strap (shown in the video) on what is actually the inside of the flap for you to slip your hand through in order to hold the iPad easily in a portrait orientation. You will need to wrap your fingers around the edges of the flap and iPad to hold them together, again as shown in the video. This worked fine, but I really wish there was also a similarly convenient way to hold the iPad in a landscape orientation.
General Fit and Finish: I can’t say enough about how nicely constructed the Snugg case is. It has a robust, elegant, and stylish look and feel.
To sum it all up, I highly recommend the Snugg iPad Case Cover and Flip Stand for your iPad. It is currently available for $35.99 (black is $29.99) at TheSnugg.com where they offer a full line of cases for other tablets, Kindles, iPhones and other iPad versions including the latest iPad Air and mini 2. Their full line also seems to be available at Amazon if you prefer.
