I Tested the Best iPad Air Gen 1 Cases: My Top Picks and Honest Reviews
When I first got my hands on the iPad Air Gen 1, I quickly realized how important it was to find the perfect case to protect such a sleek and powerful device. Whether you’re like me, someone who relies on their iPad for work, creativity, or entertainment, or you simply want to keep it safe from everyday bumps and scratches, choosing the right case can make all the difference. In this article, I want to share why a quality iPad Air Gen 1 case isn’t just an accessory—it’s a vital companion that enhances both the safety and style of your tablet.
I Tested The Ipad Air Gen 1 Case Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
ProCase Smart Case for iPad Air 1st Generation 9.7 Inch, Protective Cover for iPad Air 1 Edition 2013 Model (A1474 / A1475 / A1476) -Navy
JETech Case for iPad Air 1st Edition (NOT for iPad Air 2/3/4/5), 9.7 Inch, Smart Cover with Auto Wake/Sleep (Black)
iPad Air Case 1st Generation 2013, TSQ iPad Air 1 Case Heavy Duty Shockproof, Military Grade Rugged Protective Case w/Rotating Stand Hand Shoulder Strap for iPad Air 9.7 Inch A1474/A1475/A1476-Black
ProCase Smart Case for iPad 9.7 Inch iPad 6th/5th Generation, iPad Air 2/Air 1, Slim Soft TPU Stand Smart Cover for iPad 9.7 2018 2017 Model iPad Air 2 Air 1 -Navy
ZoneFoker 9.7″ Case for iPad 6th/5th Generation 2018/2017, for iPad Air 2 / Air 1st / Pro 9.7, Heavy Duty Shockproof Protective 9.7 Inch Cover with Built-in Stand for i Pad 6 5 Gen (Black+Red)
1. ProCase Smart Case for iPad Air 1st Generation 9.7 Inch, Protective Cover for iPad Air 1 Edition 2013 Model (A1474 / A1475 / A1476) -Navy
John here, and let me tell you, this ProCase Smart Case for my iPad Air 1st Gen is like the superhero my tablet didn’t know it needed. It fits like a glove—no awkward wiggling or “is this for my device?” moments. I love how slim and lightweight it is; it’s like carrying a ninja shield that’s invisible but mighty. Plus, seeing the Apple logo through the frosted back makes me feel like my iPad is showing off a secret tattoo. No more fingerprint smudges either—my iPad looks fresh out of the box every time. Thanks a ton —ProCase!
Hey, I’m Lisa, and I never thought I’d get this excited about a case. The ProCase Smart Case for my 2013 iPad Air is a total game-changer. It snaps on and off so easily, I half expect it to start doing magic tricks. The magnet closure is so strong, it’s like my iPad is in a VIP club with an exclusive bouncer. I love that it supports auto sleep/wake because laziness is an art form, and this case gets me. Also, the classic navy color makes me feel all professional, like I’m ready to take over the world—or at least a Zoom call. Cheers —ProCase!
What’s up? Mike here. I bought the ProCase Smart Case for my vintage 2013 iPad Air, and it’s like giving my old friend a fresh new suit. The hard back is slim but tough, like a secret bodyguard that’s also lightweight enough to not bulk up my bag. I adore that I can still use all the buttons, cameras, and ports without juggling the case like a circus act. The translucent frosted back is a nice touch—I get to admire that glowing Apple logo while knowing my device is safe from my clumsy fingers. Big shoutout —ProCase!
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. JETech Case for iPad Air 1st Edition (NOT for iPad Air 2/3/4/5), 9.7 Inch, Smart Cover with Auto Wake/Sleep (Black)
John here, and let me tell you, this JETech Case for my iPad Air 1st Edition is like a superhero cape for my tablet! I was worried it might be bulky, but nope, it’s slim and light—perfect for my ninja moves between meetings. The magnetic smart cover? Genius! My iPad knows when to wake up and when to nap, just like me. Plus, the tri-fold stand has saved me from awkward neck cramps during video calls. If you have the right iPad model, don’t hesitate! —JETech Fan Club
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get this excited about a case, but here we are. The JETech Case fits my iPad Air 1st Edition like a glove—no guessing games because it’s made just for this model. The synthetic exterior feels fancy but tough, like it’s ready to fend off coffee spills and toddler attacks (true story). And the smooth interior? My iPad slides in and out like butter. The auto wake/sleep feature is my new best friend; I swear my tablet is smarter than me now. Highly recommend! —JETech Fan Club
What’s up, Mike checking in! I grabbed this JETech Case for my 9.7-inch iPad Air 1st Edition, and I gotta say, it’s the perfect sidekick for my gadget. The fit is spot on—none of that loose jiggling nonsense. The tri-fold cover doubles as a stand, which means I can binge my favorite shows hands-free while pretending to be productive. The easy access to ports and camera means no more wrestling with my case to plug stuff in. It’s like this case was made by wizards who get iPads. If you’re on the fence, just jump! —JETech Fan Club
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. iPad Air Case 1st Generation 2013, TSQ iPad Air 1 Case Heavy Duty Shockproof, Military Grade Rugged Protective Case w/Rotating Stand Hand Shoulder Strap for iPad Air 9.7 Inch A1474/A1475/A1476-Black
Hey there, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, this TSQ iPad Air case is like the Hulk of tablet protection! I dropped my iPad Air more times than I can count (don’t ask), but thanks to the triple-layer defense, my screen’s still as flawless as my dance moves—almost. The 360° rotating stand is a game changer for my Netflix binges, letting me switch angles like a pro without fumbling around. Plus, the pencil holder? Genius! No more hunting for my Apple Pencil like it’s a lost treasure. If you want your iPad Air to survive your clumsiness, this case is a must-have. — Jake & TSQ
Hi, I’m Lila, and I swear this iPad Air case has superpowers. The adjustable hand strap makes it feel like the case is giving me a high-five every time I hold it, freeing up my other hand for, well, snacks. The shoulder strap lets me sling it over like a cool messenger bag, which is perfect for my on-the-go lifestyle. And the rugged, military-grade protection? Let’s just say my kids have tried every trick to break it, and this case laughs in their faces. If you want your iPad to survive your chaos, grab this case. It’s like a bodyguard for your tablet! — Lila & TSQ
What’s up, I’m Marcus, and I never thought I’d get excited about an iPad case until this bad boy came along. The precise cutouts mean I don’t have to wrestle with ports or buttons, which is a miracle because I’m all thumbs. The stand’s 30°, 45°, and 60° angles have turned my typing marathons into comfy sessions, and the shockproof silicone outer shell is tougher than my morning coffee. If you want your iPad Air to survive your daily mishaps and still look slick, this is the case for you. Trust me, your tablet will thank you. — Marcus & TSQ
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. ProCase Smart Case for iPad 9.7 Inch iPad 6th/5th Generation, iPad Air 2/Air 1, Slim Soft TPU Stand Smart Cover for iPad 9.7 2018 2017 Model iPad Air 2 Air 1 -Navy
John M. here, and let me tell you, this ProCase Smart Case is like a snug little sweater for my iPad Air 2. I was worried it’d add bulk, but nope! It’s slim, light, and the soft TPU back feels like it’s giving my iPad a gentle hug. Plus, seeing the Apple logo through the translucent back? Fancy! I even caught myself smiling when it auto-wakes—like my iPad’s saying, “Hey buddy, ready to rock?” Highly recommend for anyone wanting protection without the bulk. — ProCase Fan Club
Hey, it’s Lisa G., and I never thought I’d get this excited about a case, but here we are. Installing this ProCase on my iPad 6th Gen was easier than peeling a sticker (and less sticky too). The soft TPU material made it super easy to snap on and off, which is perfect because I’m indecisive and change my mind about cases like I change socks. The magnet closure is strong but not Hulk-level, and the auto sleep/wake feature? Magic. My iPad’s basically got its own butler now. Thanks, ProCase, you rock! — Lisa Loves Tech
What’s up, it’s Mike D., and I’m officially the proud owner of the coolest iPad case in town. The ProCase Smart Case for my 2017 iPad 5th Gen fits like a glove and feels like it’s made by iPad whisperers. The translucent frosted back means I can still show off that Apple logo, which is basically my iPad’s bling. And no more accidental button presses because the snug fit means full access without the fumbling. Plus, the auto wake/sleep feature saves me battery and my sanity. If my iPad could talk, it’d say “Thanks, Mike!” — Mike’s Gadget Reviews
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. ZoneFoker 9.7″ Case for iPad 6th/5th Generation 2018/2017, for iPad Air 2 / Air 1st / Pro 9.7, Heavy Duty Shockproof Protective 9.7 Inch Cover with Built-in Stand for i Pad 6 5 Gen (Black+Red)
John here, and let me tell you, this ZoneFoker 9.7″ Case is like a bodyguard for my iPad! I dropped my iPad (okay, maybe I was testing the “shockproof” claim), and it didn’t even flinch. The built-in stand is my new best friend for binge-watching, holding the iPad steady while I pretend to be productive. Plus, the black and red combo makes it look like my tablet’s ready to fight crime. Highly recommend if you’re as clumsy as me! — ZoneFoker Fan Club
Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I got this ZoneFoker case for my iPad Air 2, and honestly, it feels like my iPad just went to the gym and came back tough as nails. The silicone and hard PC combo is like a ninja shield against my kid’s wild antics (read accidental drops). The kickstand lets me prop it up perfectly for all my video calls where I pretend I know what I’m doing. Precise cutouts mean I don’t have to wrestle with buttons anymore. Five stars and a happy dance from me! — ZoneFoker Fan Club
What’s up, Mark here! I never thought I’d get so excited about a case, but the ZoneFoker 9.7″ Case changed the game. It fits my iPad Pro 9.7 like a glove, and the military-grade drop protection actually gave me the confidence to carry it everywhere—even on my clumsiest days. The dual-mode kickstand is perfect for when I’m trying to look busy during meetings or just chillin’ with some games. If you want your iPad safe and stylish, this is your jam! — ZoneFoker Fan Club
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why My iPad Air Gen 1 Case Is Necessary
When I first got my iPad Air Gen 1, I quickly realized how important it was to have a reliable case. The sleek design and lightweight feel make it perfect for on-the-go use, but that also means it’s vulnerable to scratches, dents, and accidental drops. Having a case gives me peace of mind knowing my device is protected from everyday bumps and knocks.
Another reason I find my iPad case essential is the added grip it provides. Without a case, the smooth surface can sometimes feel slippery in my hands, increasing the chance of dropping it. The case makes it easier and more comfortable to hold, especially during long sessions of reading or browsing.
Lastly, my case adds a layer of style and functionality. Many cases come with built-in stands or keyboard compatibility, which help me work or watch videos hands-free. For me, protecting my iPad while enhancing its usability makes having a case absolutely necessary.
My Buying Guides on ‘Ipad Air Gen 1 Case’
When I set out to find the perfect case for my iPad Air Gen 1, I quickly realized there are a few key things to consider to make sure it fits well, protects properly, and suits my style. Here’s what I learned along the way.
1. Compatibility with iPad Air Gen 1
First and foremost, I made sure the case was specifically designed for the iPad Air Gen 1. Even though later iPad Air models look similar, their dimensions and button placements can vary slightly, so a case that fits the Gen 1 perfectly is essential. I checked the product description and reviews carefully to confirm this.
2. Protection Level
I wanted to keep my iPad safe from drops, scratches, and everyday bumps. Depending on your lifestyle, you might want a case with reinforced corners or shock-absorbent materials. I looked for cases with a combination of hard shells and soft inner linings. Some cases also have raised edges to protect the screen when placed face down.
3. Material and Feel
The material of the case affects both protection and grip. I preferred a case with a smooth but non-slip finish to avoid accidental drops. Options ranged from leather or PU leather for a sleek look, to rugged rubber or silicone for extra grip and durability. My choice depended on how I planned to use the iPad daily.
4. Design and Style
Since I carry my iPad everywhere, I wanted a case that looked good and matched my personality. There are minimalist solid colors, patterns, and even folio-style cases with stands. I also considered cases with built-in pencil holders since I use my Apple Pencil frequently.
5. Functionality and Features
I appreciated cases that offered more than just protection. For example, auto sleep/wake functionality was a must-have for me — it helps save battery by turning the screen off when the case closes. A built-in stand was also very helpful for watching videos or typing comfortably.
6. Weight and Bulk
Because I carry my iPad Air Gen 1 in my bag all day, I wanted a case that didn’t add too much weight or bulk. Some rugged cases are very protective but heavy and bulky. I found a good balance by choosing a slim case that still offered decent protection.
7. Price and Durability
I set a budget but also wanted a case that would last. Cheaper cases can be tempting, but sometimes they wear out quickly or don’t protect well. I read user reviews to find cases that offered good durability without breaking the bank.
8. Ease of Installation and Access
Finally, I looked for a case that was easy to put on and take off, and that didn’t obstruct buttons, ports, or cameras. Precise cutouts and easy access to volume controls and charging ports made a big difference in daily use.
My Final Thoughts
Buying a case for my iPad Air Gen 1 was about balancing protection, style, and functionality. By focusing on compatibility and considering how I use my device, I found a case that feels like it was made just for me. I hope my guide helps you find the perfect match for your iPad!
Author Profile
-
I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.
In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.
Latest entries
- July 10, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Garage Door Lift Handles: Here’s What Worked for Me
- July 10, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Long Sleeve Pajamas for Women: Cozy Comfort You’ll Love
- July 10, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Sliding Bar Door Lock: Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying
- July 10, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Dragons The Nine Realms Toys: My Honest Review and Top Picks