As little as we generally like flip-style cases, we’re impressed by Incase’s Convertible Book Jacket ($60), which trumps Apple’s official iPad Case in both style and execution, at the cost of added thickness. The black faux leather case holds the iPad inside on the right, using soft gray topographic padding and a ring of leather to keep it in place, then either folds completely closed or angles with its lid to become a three-position video stand. An elastic strap on the back of the Convertible Book Jacket comes to the front to hold the case closed.
Each side of the case is hard-reinforced rather than soft, save for the closed case’s right, top, and bottom, which are unreinforced and have holes for the iPad’s controls, speakers, and ports.
On May 13, 2010, iLounge published The Complete Guide to iPad Cases and Protection, a multi-page comparison of over 70 different iPad cases and film protectors, sorted by genre. The following details were added to this piece by that comparison article; please click on the link above for additional comparative discussion of similar protective options.
Unlike Sleeves, which keep an iPad inside for slip-out use, this collection of iPad cases has been designed to split open and reveal the device—generally for use while still in the case. There are such similarities between these cases that we’ve put them into groups solely for the purpose of indicating which we think are standouts, and which basically blur into each other.
Convertible Book Jacket is a Middle-of-Pack Pick.
More expensive than Apple’s design, the Convertible Book Jacket is thicker and has an equally compelling—more adjustable—video stand feature. But as the case gets used a little, the iPad can slip out of its interior frame when it’s being used in reclining video mode. That aside, it’s an extremely professional looking case, if a bunch thicker than the ones noted above.
Our Rating
Company and Price
Company: Incase
Website: www.GoIncase.com
Model: Convertible Book Jacket
Price: $60
Compatible: iPad (2010)
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