Kid-Tested, Parent-Approved iPad Cases to Protect Tablets From Drops, Spills, and Mischief (2024)

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Kid-Tested, Parent-Approved iPad Cases to Protect Tablets From Drops, Spills, and Mischief (1)

When you invest hundreds of dollars in an iPad or other tablet for your family, you don’t want to live in fear that they’ll shatter it to pieces. Getting a good, kid-proof iPad case ensures that you’ll be able to enjoy the blessings (easy travel and educational apps!) and even the curses (so muchscreen time) of handing a tablet over to them.

“As a dad to two girls under the age of 5, I've seen the way they treat their iPads and wouldn't dare hand their devices over without a protective case,” says Grant Radermacher, DC, of Ascent Chiropractic in Wisconsin. “I definitely recommend a quality case to safeguard your tablet from accidental spills and drops.”

To select the best iPad cases for kids, we spoke with chiropractic and pediatric experts for insights on healthy device habits.We then scoured the market, choosing cases with the best screen and body protection and positioning options. We also put some of these iPad cases to the test at home with our own kids and devices. In addition, this article was reviewed by a pediatrics specialist on ourExpert Board, who verified the accuracy of our information.

Our Top Picks

In This Article

  • Our Picks

  • How We Selected

  • Our Experts

  • What to Look For

  • Your Questions, Answered

Best Overall

Gumdrop HideAway iPad Case

Kid-Tested, Parent-Approved iPad Cases to Protect Tablets From Drops, Spills, and Mischief (2)

Why We Like It

The Gumdrop Hideaway case is our top pick because you can't find a better tablet cover for kids in this price range. It has a heavy-duty tire tread-style shell and a rigid internal frame meant to keep your kid’s iPad safe. The case is shockproof and impact-resistant thanks to a thick silicone bumper and polycarbonate casing rated to withstand drops from heights of 4 feet without damage.

The case features a built-in screen protector to prevent scratches and a handy magnetic stand that fits into the back of the case when not in use. The stand engages with just a flip and click, so kids can easily view their favorite shows without hunching over.A loop on the top can hold an Apple pencil or other stylus.

But Take Note

We only wish this case was waterproof and that it came in more color options than bright blue, black, and gray.

The Details

  • Materials: Silicone and polycarbonate
  • Screen protection: Yes
  • Sizes: 10.9 inch Apple iPad (10th generation); also available for 10.2 inch iPad (7th, 8th, & 9th generations)

Best for Travel

OtterBox Kids EasyGrab Case

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Why We Like It

We can’t emphasize enough how durable this case is. Its rugged exterior protects your iPad from even the most exuberant users. We've personally tested this case and found that kids can drop their tablet while running and it won’t get a mark or scratch.It also has a handle that doubles as a stand with multiple positioning options, helping to prevent hunching.

Available in two designs—pink and pale green or blue and gray—both with a bright yellow handle, this case has a wide ridge around the edges for easy gripping.Another thing we love is that it's easy to clean and won’t stain. Just wipe down with a damp cloth or a cleaning wipe. A screen protector is included.

But Take Note

This case can be a bit difficult to remove once you've got it on. Not a dealbreaker, but something to keep in mind if your child frequently plays Osmo or other iPad games that require the tablet to be out of the case.

The Details

  • Materials: Plastic, silicone
  • Screen protection: Yes
  • Sizes: 10.9 inch Apple iPad (10th generation); previous design version available for 10.2 inch iPad (7th, 8th, & 9th generations)

Best Budget

Vikesi DTTO iPad Case

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Pros

  • Smart cover that acts as a stand

  • Lifetime warranty

  • Customizable

Cons

  • Less sturdy than some of our picks

Why We Like It

We love that this slim, clear case comes in over 40 fun colors and designs, from orange and pink to outer space and SpongeBob. Its raised edge helps slippery fingers get a better grip, but the case is also shockproof and drop-resistant. The tri-fold polyurethane smart cover triggers automatic wake/sleep of your device and doubles as a stand.

The clear plastic anti-scratch back panel makes it easy for kids to personalize the case with their favorite stickers. Plus, it's got a handy built-in slot that fits an Apple pencil. This case also comes with a lifetime warranty should you have to replace it for any reason. At $13, the price can't be beat.

But Take Note

This cover lacks the heavy-duty thickness and screen protection seen on most other picks on our list. That means it may be best for older or less rambunctious kids.

The Details

  • Materials: Acrylic clear back, thermoplastic polyurethane frame, polyurethane smart cover
  • Screen protection: No
  • Sizes: 10.9 inch Apple iPad (10th generation); also available for 10.2 inch iPad (7th, 8th, & 9th generations)

Best for Younger Kids

Speck Case-E Run

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Why We Like It

This case isn’t just adorable to look at—with its cute handle that looks like a pair of headphones—it’s also very protective. Built from EVA foam (just like Crocs), it’s been tested to withstand drops from 6 feet. The whole case is coated in Microban, which prevents germs and dirt from sticking to the surface.The company asserts all materials are free of formaldehyde, PVC, and BPA.

That detachable handle is great for little ones who want to tote it around themselves, and it converts to a stand or a way to hang the iPad from the car seat headrest for entertainment on the go.Two color options are available: raspberry and orange, and royal blue and pale blue.

But Take Note

One drawback is that this case doesn’t have a built-in screen protector, so you’ll have to buy it separately, and the handle makes it a bit bulky when you’re trying to squeeze it into small bags.

The Details

  • Materials: EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate)
  • Screen protection: No
  • Sizes: 10.9 inch Apple iPad (10th generation); also available for 10.2 inch iPad (7th, 8th, & 9th generations)

Best for iPad Mini

OtterBox Kids EasyClean iPad Case

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Why We Like It

OtterBox has long been the go-to brand for heavy-duty device protection, and the brand knows how to step it up even further for kids. The shell is drop-tested to military standards, while the included screen protector prevents scratches and dings. This case is very easy to get on and off, unlike some of our other picks.

The shell has been treated with an antimicrobial coating, but should it get dirty, as part of the brand's "Trustywash" collection, cleaning is a snap because this case is dishwasher safe. The handle is a big selling point here, as it’s suitable for both kids and adults to carry, and works as a stand.

But Take Note

This pick is on the pricey side, though we believe its fantastic features make it worth the investment.

The Details

  • Materials: Not specified
  • Screen protection: Yes
  • Sizes: For iPad Mini (6th generation)

Best for Older Kids

SEYMAC MINDER-S Shockproof Protective Case

Kid-Tested, Parent-Approved iPad Cases to Protect Tablets From Drops, Spills, and Mischief (7)

Why We Like It

For tweens and older kids who want a more grown-up look, this case is a winner. We love how its deceptively understated style is actually hiding tons of protection. Your iPad is protected from drops by an inner hard polycarbonate shell as well as a shockproof outer soft thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) bumper and a built-in screen protector.

The convenient hand strap rotates 360 degrees and is adjustable, so it can accommodate growing hands. Plus, the built-in kickstand offers multiple positioning options and folds flush into the case when not in use. It comes in black, navy, gray, or salmon.We also love that it's available for all types of iPads.

But Take Note

The kickstand may be difficult for younger kids to operate and may not stand up to being too roughly manipulated.

The Details

  • Materials: Polycarbonate and TPU
  • Screen protection: Yes
  • Sizes: 10.9 inch Apple iPad (10th generation), 8.3 inch iPad Mini 6, 9.7 inch iPad (6th/5th generation), 10.9 inch iPad Air (4th/5th generation), 12.9 inch iPad Pro

Best Heavy-Duty

MoKo Shockproof Rugged iPad Case for Kids

Kid-Tested, Parent-Approved iPad Cases to Protect Tablets From Drops, Spills, and Mischief (8)

Why We Like It

Whether clumsy or busy, some kids seem to drop everything. We found the most rugged iPad case just for them.This Moko case provides seriously tough armor for your iPad and will take everything your kid can dish out. It’s got rigorous shock absorption: a two-layered structure that combines a polycarbonate shell with a TPU frame that provides military-grade, 360-degree drop protection.

The built-in screen protector keeps the iPad insulated from scratches and dust and helps prevent smudges and fingerprints. The convenient built-in kickstand works for both portrait and horizontal angles. It comes in five colors, including dark green and hot pink. Not to mention, you get all that protection for around $15.

But Take Note

The full coverage of this case means the outer buttons on the shell, such as the volume buttons, are covered. As such, they may require hard pressure to operate.

The Details

  • Materials: Polycarbonate and TPU
  • Screen protection: Yes
  • Sizes: 10.9 inch Apple iPad (10th generation); also available for 10.2 inch iPad (7th, 8th, & 9th generations), 9.7 inch iPad (6th/5th generation), iPad Mini (1st-5th generation), iPad Air, and iPad Pro

Best for Typing

Logitech Rugged Folio Keyboard Case for iPad

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Why We Like It

Though little ones quickly adapt to their touch screens, they'll soon become interested in typing on a computer keyboard, or they may need to do so for schoolwork. But laptops can be expensive, and our old hand-me-down computers go out of date too quickly. That is why we love the idea of using an iPad case with a built-in keyboard to give kids the ability to type on their tablets.

This rugged folio case also offers a bevy of kid-proof features. Logitech's proprietary shock-absorbing technology ensures the case exceeds military drop standards, and the soft keyboard is spill-proof. The stand tilts 40 degrees to offer several positioning options, while the keyboard uses smart technology to connect—no Bluetooth required. You won't need to worry about batteries or charging the keyboard, as it automatically charges when connected to the iPad.

But Take Note

While it's more expensive than a regular case, it's less expensive than buying a new device.

The Details

  • Materials: Not listed
  • Screen protection: No
  • Sizes: 10.9 inch Apple iPad (10th generation)

Best Lightweight

ROARTZ Smart Folio Trifold iPad Case

Kid-Tested, Parent-Approved iPad Cases to Protect Tablets From Drops, Spills, and Mischief (10)

Pros

  • Uncomplicated

  • Great price

  • Fits in small pockets and bags

Cons

  • Not as protective as other cases

Why We Like It

Lightweight, folio-style cases have been around since the iPad debuted, and their ease of use has made them a favorite of kids and adults alike. This slim case protects your tech without adding a ton of bulk, making it easy to stash in backpacks or your vehicle’s side pockets.

The tri-fold magnetic cover offers automatic wake/sleep of your device and can fold up to serve as a stand. The cover can fold into two different positions to help get the screen into more posture-friendly positions. We also love the built-in slot for your Apple pencil.

But Take Note

Unfortunately, the slim case is not as protective as other options, and it's only available in five colors.

The Details

  • Materials: Microfiber, polyurethane, and rubber
  • Screen protection: Yes, when closed
  • Sizes: Mini, Air, Pro, and full-size iPads

Our Review Process

To find the best iPad cases for kids, we rounded up the most popular and best-reviewed cases for the most recent device models. Learning from our own experiences with how kids interact with tablets, we looked for cases that are built for tough use and rugged play but also have handles and other functionality that make them kid-friendly and convenient.

Considering the advice of experts, we prioritized cases with kickstands and other ways to use them hands-free, since “tech neck” from looking at something held in their laps can be damaging to kids' posture.

Our Experts

  • Delene P. Musielak, MD, FACP, FAAP, ABOM, is triple board-certified in Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, and Obesity Medicine, and is the host of “The Dr. Mom Show."
  • Grant Radermacher, DC, is the owner of Ascent Chiropractic in Brookfield, Wisconsin.

Factors to Consider

  • Materials: You want a case made from materials that can stand up to rough use but are not too heavy. Certain types of plastic, rubber, and foam, such as EVA, provide the right balance of shock absorption, softness, and comfortable grip for little hands. Some cases use layers of more than one material for added protection.
  • Screen Protection: Outside of shielding your tablet screen from scratches or worse, a screen protector can also help decrease eye strain by lessening the brightness, says Dr. Musielak.
  • Size: Different generations or types of tablets are different sizes, so be sure to read the fine print on which models a case fits. We focused our picks on the most recent models of iPads (10th Gen) and iPad minis (6th Gen), but many cases are also available for older models.
  • Kickstands: To protect kids’ posture and make viewing more convenient, choose a case with a stand that will let them prop the device on a table instead of holding it on their laps.

Your Questions, Answered

How do I protect my child’s iPad?

The best way to protect an iPad is to get the right case made from plastic or rubber that will help prevent damage from dropping, scratches, and dust.

Do iPads need screen protectors?

Not necessarily. About half of our selections have screen protectors, but many don’t. If the silicone or polycarbonate that frames the screen is thick, it should shield the screen in the case of drops and falls. You can buy an inexpensive screen protector in addition to the case if you feel it’s necessary.

What kind of case is most protective?

For smaller kids who tend to drop things, a thick case made from plastic is going to be the most protective. For older kids who might knock it into something, or worry about dust, look for a thinner case with a screen protector. You know your kids the best and should choose according to their needs.

Who We Are

Tanya Edwards is an experienced parenting, food, beauty, and health journalist who has been writing and editing parenting stories for over a decade. To research this article, she spoke to experts and several parents to find out which cases they chose for their kids and why.

Kid-Tested, Parent-Approved iPad Cases to Protect Tablets From Drops, Spills, and Mischief (2024)
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