X-Doria Cases for iPad Air and iPad mini Review

X-Doria Cases for iPad Air and iPad mini look nice, protect well and offer impressive functionality thanks to the magnetic wake/sleep feature and the design of the stand function built into the case. We really like these cases and think iPad Air owners who like some flair will like the version for the larger iPad. iPad mini owners wanting a more conservative, professional look will enjoy the Dash Folio model.

Finding a colorful, attractive and useful case for the iPad Air or iPad mini can pose a challenge with the huge array of available options. There’s so many cheap and ugly cases or bulky heavy cases, that we like to let readers know when we find one that’s attractive, light, thin and useful. We found two, one for each iPad model.

X-Doria makes cases for the iPad, iPhone, 13-inch MacBook Air and Samsung Galaxy S4. We tested out the SmartStyle case for the Apple iPad Air and the Dash Folio for the iPad mini.

X-Doria SmartStyle Case for iPad Air

The SmartStyle case for iPad Air ($49.99) looks great, coming in seven interesting and colorful designs. The Modern Plaid Blue comes in a red white and blue plaid design that runs diagonally across the outside fo the case. We also looked at the version they call Birds, which offers a more feminine look (see below).

The X-Doria Cases for iPad don’t add much weight or thickness while protecting the corners of the iPad thanks to a polyurethane inner case that hugs all corners and sides while leaving the buttons and ports accessible.

Ridges inside the front cover give the iPad multiple viewing angles. We also get an elastic band to hold the case shut. Magnets wake or sleep the iPad when opening or closing the folio styles.

X-Doria Dash Folio Case for iPad mini

On the iPad mini, the Dash Folio ($39.99) functions much the same way, but comes with a more conservative leather folio style cover. The black case gets accented by white trim while the brown has yellow (see above). Both look tasteful and professional. The Dash Folio feels thicker with more layers than the SmartStyle.

We like the look and feel of these cases. The cost fits the quality and makes the cases a real bargain compared to more expensive cases offering the same high end quality and design aesthetics. The cases feel like they will hold up well over a long use. After a few weeks we broke them in so they didn’t feel rigid or still, like one does with a high quality leather shoe. For these reasons we don’t hesitate in recommending these cases.

I’m giving these away, so contact me via Twitter at @kapurcell or on Goole+ at google.com/+KevinPurcell. The first four to ask and respond to my request for a shipping address will get one.