I’ve never been a big one for customizable swag, but when the folks at Case Studio offered me a coupon code to create my own iPad case, I admit I was intrigued.
There’s so many options that no two cases would ever look alike. From uploading a custom photo to selecting one of many designs and adding a short message or monogram, the options are endless.
I spent close to half an hour on my case. While I was tempted by uploading a gorgeous piece of Dean Winchester fan art (completely safe for work, in case you were wondering), I finally decided on something a bit less obtrusive but still conversation-starting.
The design process was easy and intuitive, although I did get confused with which text box I was editing, and it wasn’t as easy to back up and make changes as I’d hoped. I finally had to wipe out and start over, but that didn’t add too much to my design time.
The case arrived less than a week after I ordered it, which I thought was great turn-around time. I was happy with the design but even happier with the case.
It’s the style where you slip your tablet into a frame which covers the bezel. I used to dislike that style of case, but I discovered that, for reading, it gives the best place to rest your page turn thumb, so I’ve changed my mind. The case is thinner than my Snugg case but larger than the Apple Smart Case. However, it’s slim enough to fit snugly in my Amazon Basics sleeve, with just enough room for my Amazon Basics BT keyboard.
The iPad is easy to get in and out of the case, and it’s comfortable for curling up on the couch to read in portrait, but it’s also comfortably propped landscape in my lap for watching video or playing a game.
For table use, it has three upright positions, and it’s the only case I own which has a position that’s completely comfortable for typing. The stops to hold the iPad in position look too thin to actually work, but they do. You won’t be able to jostle the table much or the iPad will slide, but I typed this review using the most upright position, and it stayed stable throughout.
Constructions seems sturdy, and I believe the case will weather normal use, and still look good months from now.
My only gripe is that there are no magnets in the frame, so the case doesn’t stay closed without the aid of gravity, and there’s no auto sleep/wake functionality. Considering that the case sells for $59.95, I do think that’s a significant gripe. At that price, I would be disappointed to give up the sleep/wake function.
If you can live without that, though, and like the option to customize, check out the case selection. They are also available for several smartphone brands and a few other tablets. If you buy one, feel free to share pictures of your custom case.
