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Best iPad Mini Cases

Updated October 2023
Bottom line
Pros
Cons
Best of the Best
OtterBox Defender Case for iPad Mini 4
OtterBox
Defender Case for iPad Mini 4
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Customer Favorite
Bottom Line

The reliable shell case design offers three layers of protection. Made from a leader in the phone case space.

Pros

Integrated screen protector is crystal-clear. Flip-open port covers protect jacks and ports from dust and dirt that can corrupt connections. Combination of rubber, polycarbonate, and silicone for superior protection. Comes with a convenient kickstand setup.

Cons

Can be a bit bulky and heavy compared to other cases, even from the OtterBox line.

Best Bang for the Buck
JETech Case for iPad Mini 5
JETech
Case for iPad Mini 5
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For Newer Models
Bottom Line

Wallet-friendly option for a lightweight, slimline folio case. Looks high-end and professional.

Pros

Available in six solid colors. Folding outer flap also functions as a kickstand. Magnetic cover works with sleep/wake function. Speakers and ports are accessible via well-placed and well-cut holes. Protection is superior to other folio designs.

Cons

Only compatible with iPad 5 Mini 2019 models and newer. Corners can be more delicate than expected.

Fintie iPad Mini/Mini 2/Mini 3 Case
Fintie
iPad Mini/Mini 2/Mini 3 Case
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Stylish and Sturdy
Bottom Line

This cover is great if you're looking for something sturdy and stylish with multiple stand options while not spending a ton of money.

Pros

Features three different slots for use as a stand. Includes a holder for a stylus and a card pocket that can be used for business cards and credit cards. Available in a variety of prints and colors.

Cons

Some buyers said the edges of the case covered a little too much of the screen. Also does add some bulk to the iPad Mini.

Topsky Shock-Absorption Three Layer Armor Defender Full Body Protective Case
Topsky
Shock-Absorption Three Layer Armor Defender Full Body Protective Case
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Total Protection
Bottom Line

A great case that offers a lot of protection and some nice extras. This is a great budget-friendly option for those looking to really protect their iPad Mini.

Pros

Anti-slip silicone outer layer protects against bumps and drops. Comes with a kick stand, screen protector, and stylus. Easy to clean.

Cons

While buyers appreciated the added screen protector, many noted that it was a little flimsy and some opted not to use it at all.

DTTO Ultra Slim Lightweight Smart Case
DTTO
Ultra Slim Lightweight Smart Case
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Sleek and Lightweight
Bottom Line

A great basic, sturdy case for a great price. Ideal if you're looking for something that doesn't add a lot of bulk to your iPad Mini.

Pros

Easy to put on and take off. Features a slim, lightweight design. Offers two different stand positions.

Cons

Some buyers complained that the charging port opening was a little too small and made it difficult to plug in the iPad Mini.

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BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.About BestReviews 
HOW WE TESTED

We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.

30
Models
Considered
130
Consumers
Consulted
28
Hours
Researched
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Buying guide for Best iPad Mini cases

The iPad Mini is popular for the way it uniquely meets the needs of creative users. It provides enough space for artistry to unfold while being compact enough to conveniently fit inside bags or pockets. Since the iPad Mini is journey-bound with users on the go, using a case is a wise idea.

Looking for an iPad Mini case might remind you of getting a case for your iPhone. While the major features are still important to compare, such as drop protection, the larger device has different needs. For example, you may require an iPad Mini case that holds your Apple Pencil, or one that has an ultra-responsive screen protector. If your main concern is keeping bulk to a minimum, you have plenty of slimline folio cases to consider.

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Some iPad Mini cases come with cleaning products, including microfiber cloths and screen protector wipes.

Key considerations

Generation and model

Before anything else, make sure you know which generation of iPad Mini you have. There are five, and there is some variation in size between them. Certain cases are also model specific, so it’s recommended you have the number on hand to confirm compatibility.

Protection

Screen protection: Not all iPad Mini cases offer screen protection. Because the touchscreen is fully exposed, it’s far more susceptible to scratching or shattering. Depending on the fit of the case, though, you might be able to apply a film or tempered glass screen protector to your device.

iPad Mini cases with integrated screen protection cost more because the coverage is engineered to be as responsive as possible. While these cases offer superior protection, especially the heavy-duty ones, the screen protectors can get cloudy or discolored over time.

Drop protection: This is a top concern for all electronic devices, including iPad Minis. Some cases specifically list their Ingress Protection (IP) rating, which tells you something about the durability of the case and the quality of protection for your device. Other case manufacturers aren’t as technical, but they may list their cases’ overall performance based on third-party testing.

Generally speaking, the harder the case, the more drop protection your iPad Mini will have. Lightweight or slimline cases only offer modest protection, especially since they don’t cover the screen. Heavy-duty cases with harder shells and integrated screen protection usually offer superior safeguards against drops, impacts, or crushing.

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Did You Know?
If you notice your iPad Mini case is starting to break or tear, replace it right away. A broken case may not protect your device adequately.
Staff
BestReviews

Features

Popular types of cases

Slimline: These cases for the iPad Mini offer bare-bones protection at best. They’re usually made of flexible plastic or silicone and pop off and on the device easily. Since they’re lightweight, they’re best for users who are careful with their iPad Minis and use them in low-risk environments.

Folio: These cases are some of the most popular choices for iPad Minis. They strike a balance between size and protection, making them ideal for travel or everyday use. The outer flap of a folio case offers decent screen protection. In many designs, the cover is magnetized to ensure it stays in place.

Heavy-duty: Many people who use their iPad Minis often, especially in high-risk environments, prefer a heavy-duty case. These cases usually have a high-grade plastic shell, and many have integrated screen protection. Unfortunately, the reinforced construction of heavy-duty cases means they’re much bulkier and heavier than others.

Keyboard: iPad Mini users who use their devices for communication may benefit from a keyboard case. These designs most closely resemble folio cases. The outer flap houses the iPad Mini, which locks into place, while the opposite side of the case has a wireless keyboard. Given their electronic components, keyboard cases are on the heavier side.

Kids: iPad Mini cases designed for kids are designed to be childproof to some degree, so they offer more in the way of drop and bump protection. This is achieved through the use of an ultra-thick plastic or silicone shell, often with a handle for easy carrying by little hands. As expected, many of these come in fun colors and designs, and some are molded to resemble animals.

Extras

Kickstand: If you enjoy using your iPad Mini to view media, it’s worth getting a case with a kickstand that unfolds to prop up the device. Many folio cases are designed in such a way that the outer flap can be folded to prop up the iPad Mini. Other cases have integrated plastic legs that fold flush when they’re not in use.

Apple Pencil holder: If you’re a big fan of your Apple Pencil, make sure your iPad Mini case comes with a holder for it. In some designs, you can snap the Pencil into place, while in others an elastic loop holds it in place. For some reason, cases that have this essential feature don’t always advertise it on the packaging, so you’ll need to examine the case to see if there is a Pencil holder.

Strap: While there aren’t many of them on the market, there are some iPad Mini cases that include a strap. This is convenient for carrying your iPad Mini while keeping your hands free. These straps are usually made of nylon webbing and are adjustable via buckles.

Regularly remove your iPad Mini from its case so you can clean it. Despite the snug, secure fit, it’s common for dirt and dust to accumulate in the case’s tiny crevices.

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BestReviews

iPad Mini case prices

iPad Mini cases cost between $12 and $125, mostly depending on the level of drop protection and quality of construction.

Inexpensive

Folding covers and lightweight shell cases cost between $12 and $25. Their quality is decent at best. They won’t last as long as other cases, and they don’t offer nearly as much protection.

Mid-range

These iPad Mini cases cost between $30 and $70 and include a variety of heavy-duty options, as well as some entry-level keyboard cases.

Expensive

If protection is your main concern, it’s worth spending closer to $125 on a high-quality iPad Mini case. You’ll find better-quality keyboard cases in this range, too.

Tips

  • Choose a quality case. Even if you balk at the idea of spending big bucks on an iPad Mini case, think of it as a small investment to protect an expensive device.
  • Treat your iPad Mini with care. Cases only minimize damage. No matter how well made the case, there’s no guarantee that it can fully prevent damage to your iPad Mini. Certain cases perform better than others when it comes to drops or bumps.
  • Make sure the case accommodates a screen protector. While most iPad Mini screen protectors are very thin, some are thick enough to affect the way the device fits in a particular case. If you use a screen protector, check the fit with your desired case.
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Invest in an iPad Mini case in a bold color or design so you can spot it more easily in your bag, in a room, or on your desk.

FAQ

Q. Should I get in more than one type of iPad Mini case?

A. Many users do. Lightweight or slimline cases might do the job at home or in the office, but if you’re traveling, there’s a good chance you want the better protection offered by a heavy-duty case. If you share your iPad Mini with kids, it’s definitely worth getting in both kid-friendly and adult cases so you each have one that suits your needs.

Q. Will my iPad Mini case muffle the audio?

A. The vast majority of iPad Mini cases are designed so they don’t obstruct the sound. Poorly made cases may not be cut properly and cover the speakers, which can affect the sound. With that said, it’s always a good idea to examine any iPad Mini case you’re considering to ensure it allows unobstructed access to speakers, ports, and buttons.

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