Protect Your Kids’ Tablets With These Durable iPad Cases—Because Accidents Happen (2024)

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,” saysGrant 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 onhealthy device habits.We then scoured the market, choosingcases with the best screen and body protectionandpositioning options, taking into consideration how our own children treat their devices. In addition, this article was reviewed by a pediatrics specialist on ourExpert Board, who verified the accuracy of our information.

Our Favorites

• Best Overall:Gumdrop HideAway iPad Case
• Best for Travel:OtterBox Kids EasyGrab Case
• Best Budget:Vikesi Dtto iPad Case
• Best for Younger Kids:Speck Case-E Run
• Best for iPad Mini:OtterBox Kids EasyClean iPad Case
• Best for Older Kids:Seymac Minder-S Shockproof Protective Case
• Best Heavy-Duty:MoKo Shockproof Rugged iPad Case for Kids
• Best for Typing:Logitech Rugged Folio Keyboard Case for iPad
• Best Lightweight:Roartz Smart Folio Trifold iPad Case

Best Overall: Gumdrop HideAway iPad Case

Why We Like It

The Gumdrop Hideaway iPad Caseis our top pick because you can't find a better tablet cover for kids in this price range. It has aheavy-duty tire tread-style shelland 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 towithstand drops from heights of 4 feetwithout damage.

The case features abuilt-in screen protectorto prevent scratches and a handymagnetic standthat fits into the back 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

Why We Like It

We can’t emphasize enough howdurablethis case is. Its rugged exteriorprotects your iPad from even the most exuberant users.We've personally tested this caseand 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 ridgearound the edges foreasy 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

Why We Like It

We love that thisslim, clear case comes in over 40 fun colorsand designs, from orange and pink to outer space and SpongeBob. Itsraised edge helps slippery fingers get a better grip, but the case is also shockproof and drop-resistant. Thetri-fold polyurethane smart cover triggers your device's automatic wake and sleep 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.

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

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 (like Crocs), it’s been tested to withstand drops from 6 feet. The whole case iscoated 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. 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 bitbulkywhen 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

Why We Like It

OtterBoxhas long been the go-to brand for heavy-duty device protection, and the brand knows how to step it up even further for kids. Theshell isdrop-tested to military standards, while the included screen protectorprevents scratches and dings. Unlike some of our other picks, this case is very easy to get on and off.

The shell has been treated with anantimicrobial coating, but should it get dirty, as part of the brand's "Trustywash" collection, cleaning is a snap becausethis case isdishwasher safe. Thehandle is a big selling point here, as it’s suitable for both kids and adults to carry and works as astand.

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

Why We Like It

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

The convenienthand strap rotates 360 degrees and isadjustable, accommodating 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 and is 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

Why We Like It

Whether clumsy or busy, some kids seem to dropeverything. We found the mostrugged 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 providesmilitary-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

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 aniPad case with a built-in keyboardto give kids the ability to type on their tablets.

This rugged foliocase also offers a bevy of kid-proof features. Logitech's proprietary shock-absorbing technology ensures the case exceeds military drop standards, and thesoft 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

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.

Thetri-fold magnetic coveroffers 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 and Experts

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 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 damage kids' posture. We spoke with the following experts:

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

Factors to Consider When Buying iPad Cases for Kids

• 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.