The best iPad case in the world would be indestructible, look amazing, be ultra thin and be made of the highest quality materials and do everything you could possibly want whilst making you a sandwich. Unfortunately, that does not exist so the best iPad case varies from person to person, although some iPad cases always seem to rise to the top of the pile. Our best iPad cases are as follows!

OtterBox iPad Defender Case
The best protection around for the iPad, the OtterBox iPad Defender Case gives the highest level of security for your iPad. Drop proof, this case incorporates three layers of hardcore protection plus some advanced features. Stowing your iPad away for the night or for your commute? Simply remove the back polycarbonate cover and snap it over the face for ultimate touch screen protection, giving you full body protection for your iPad! It also comes with a build in stand, so it’s versatile as well as heavy duty. Not only that, it is designed to accommodate the iPad Dock so you never have to remove the case, meaning it is always protected.

Piel Frama Apple iPad Folio Leather Case
When it comes to leather cases, Piel Frama is hard to beat. This stunning iPad case is hand made with incredible attention to detail, ensuring that it is the very highest quality especially when combined with selected grade 1ª leather from individually chosen cows. Quality wise, this is possibly the best leather iPad case available (or at least one of the top few). The folio style of this case allows it to open like a book while providing full protection of the screen when it’s not in use. With a magnetic closure system, this case lets you access the iPad quickly and easily whilst keeping it secure. It also allows access to all of the controls and ports at all times, meaning you have full functionality whilst it is still inside the case.

KeyCase iPad Folio Deluxe with Bluetooth Keyboard – Black
The iPad case that has taken the world by storm, the KeyCase iPad Folio Deluxe with Bluetooth Keyboard is exactly what the name suggests, a case with a fully functioning  iPad keyboard built in. With an integrated Bluetooth 2.0 Keyboard which seemlessly connects with the iPad for quicker and more comfortable typing – this innovative folio case is ideal for people who regularly use their iPad for e-mailing, making notes and writing documents. The clever design of this multi-functional case allows it to protect the iPad, whilst it can easily convert into the laptop style postion. If you don’t need the Keyboard it simply folds behind the iPad and out of sight, and with a working time of up to 90 hours per charge (and standby time of up to 100 days), it won’t be running out of power any time soon.

Macally METROLPAD Clear with Silicone Grip for iPad
This ultra slim iPad case is designed protection without adding any bulk to the device itself. Protecting the iPad from scratches, it features a hardshell back panel and a silicon edge for extra protection and grip.  The frosty coloured matt effect back feels great and allows the Apple logo to show through, while the tough silicone edge holds your iPad perfectly still and protects it from light shocks and damage. The back of this case has four small knobs which stabilize the iPad when lying flat and protect the case from scuffs. Keeping the original form of the iPad, this lightweight case will give you discrete protection for those that don’t want any extra bulk on their iPad.

Marware Eco-Vue for iPad
The Eco-Vue case for the iPad uses eco-leather so it’s eco-friendly! What’s so great about eco-leather? The tanning process used to make this leather uses fewer toxins than traditional leather tanning. This minimizes toxic runoff into the ground and water tables. No chlorine, no sulfuric acid, and no petroleum/chemical based dyes. This is real leather, without the environmental impact of standard tanning and dyeing processes. But that’s not all! This is actually an iPad case that would stand out from the crowd even without being eco-friendly. It delivers 3 soluutions into one case – it has a unique and innovative hand strap design allows you to fold back the cover and securely grip the device during usage – a feature not offered in many other cases or covers. The Eco-Vue opens like a book, and the front cover can be used as a stand. A foldaway display stand is ideal for lower-angled typing or viewing, and rounds out a broad array of features provided in a single case solution. So there you have it, an eco-friendly iPad case that can function as a typing stand, viewing stand and also has support for holding it in your hands.

The iPad comes with everything that you need to use it built in which is great, but to have all of the functions in such a small package with so few buttons there have to be compromises. One of these comes in the form of the iPad on screen keyboard. Whilst it is definitely usable, the iPad keyboard takes up a large amount of the screen as well as leaving lots of nice fingerprints all over the screen where the keys are. What is the solution to this problem? Get a small separate keyboard, which will let you make better use of the high quality screen as well as keeping it fingerprint-free. It’ll also let you type and access some of the controls wirelessly from the iPad. Here are a few of the best and most practical iPad keyboards on the market.

Flexible Bluetooth Mini Keyboard
This flexible Bluetooth Mini Keyboard might be called “mini”, but the design makes it large enough for those who need to get some typing done on the move. The Flexible Bluetooth Mini Keyboard is designed to be a durable and portable bluetooth enabled keyboard. The slimline flexible design makes it ultra portable, perfect as a travelling companion for devices such as the iPad. Its flat design makes it comfortable to type with and silent keys for more discrete use. Add to that the fact that it is water and dust resistant means that it is a great device for portability and functionality. The keyboard comes supplied with a USB charging cable which means that it can still be used when low on power. Able to be rolled up for storage and transportation, this convenient keyboard makes typing on mobile devices much simpler and more comfortable.

Mini Bluetooth Keyboard – Black
Portability is the key with this Mini Bluetooth Keyboard. The iPad is a mobile device, so this ultra slim keyboard makes it a great travelling partner. This device is small enough to slip into your pocket or alongside the iPad in its carry case. Compatible with all Bluetooth enabled devices, this keyboard is useful for connecting to your iPhone and Playstation 3 too. This particular one comes in classic black but there is also a silver version if you prefer.

KeyCase iPad Folio with Integrated Bluetooth Keyboard – Black
This is the ultimate package for an all-in-one typing and transportation package. The iPad Folio is a protective case for the iPad with an integrated Bluetooth Keyboard which seamlessly connects with the iPad for quicker and more comfortable typing – this innovative folio case is ideal for people who regularly use their iPad for e-mailing, making notes and writing documents. The clever design of this multi-functional case allows it to protect the iPad, whilst it can easily convert into the laptop style position. This will support the iPad into an optimal viewing angle whilst you can type without worrying about the iPad being supported. If you don’t need the Keyboard it simply folds behind the iPad and out of sight. The keyboard design features quiet keystrokes, and is also dust-proof and spill-proof making it extra durable and ideal for travelling with. With a battery life of approximately 45 hours and using the same charger as the standard Apple power cable, this keyboard should never be running out of power.

Apple iPad Keyboard Dock

The Genuine Apple iPad Keyboard Dock combines a dock for charging your iPad with a full-size keyboard. The dock has a rear 30-pin connector, which lets you connect to an electrical outlet using the USB Power Adapter, sync to your computer, and use accessories like the Camera Connection Kit. An audio jack lets you connect to stereo or powered speakers. With the iPad Keyboard Dock, you get a useful home base for your iPad. It combines a built-in aluminum Apple keyboard with a dock for syncing, charging, and more. It also works with other iPad accessories, such as the iPad Dock Connector to VGA Adapter and the iPad Camera Connection Kit. The attached keyboard features a sleek anodized aluminum enclosure with low-profile keys that provide a crisp, responsive feel and an ultracompact design that fits on even the most crowded desk. Special keys provide one-touch access to a variety of iPad features — the Home screen, Spotlight search, display brightness, picture frame mode, the onscreen keyboard, and screen lock. Although not designed to be portable, this is a great dock and keyboard set for any desk.

Freedom i-Connex Bluetooth Keyboard
This solid keyboard is one of very few portable keyboards that feature a hard design, making it extremely easy to type on and also comes with a whole range of features. This iPad keyboard has an innovative folding design which allows you to quickly fold it away and carry around you everywhere. It even comes with a protective case to protect it against damage. HID Profile allows it to be connected to the iPad as well as iPhones and can also be connected to many HID compatible devices which have keyboard support such as Playstations 3′s, Netbooks, Laptop’s and PC’s. It also has 6 dedicated keys for media controls, control and function keys allow control of your mobile device from the keyboard and separate LED indicators to show power and connection status. For extra comfort when typing, it also has a pull out, folding device stand. It uses two AAA batteries for long life (Over 90 hours use and 3000 hours standby) and ease of replacement. Feature and layout-wise, this is one the keyboards that comes closest to replicating a full sized keyboard whilst maintaining its portability.

If you are lucky enough to have an iPad, then you can be sure that you want the very best accessories to go with it.  iPad accessories can range from simple cases and bags to docks and keyboards. Here is a selection of iPad accessories designed to either protect the iPad or enhance your experience with it.

Apple iPad Keyboard Dock
The official apple iPad keyboard dock combines the practicality of having a seperate iPad Keyboard with the functionality of having a dock stand to support the iPad whilst it is syncing or charging. Designed by Apple, the iPad Keyboard Dock fits the iPad perfectly, and with the same design scheme as the iPad it makes a great accessory and addition to any desktop.

Genius iPad Stand
The Genius iPad Stand is designed to stand your iPad at the perfect angle, allowing you to watch movies, view photos or type in a more comfortable position. Made from a single piece of strong alloy metal, this modern stand fits perfectly with the entire range of Apple iPad. Blending perfectly with your iPad, it’s ideal for use as a photo frame or to hold your iPad at the perfect angle while you watch a movie. It can also be used to hold the iPad at an angle while you type.

Knomo 10″ Messenger Bag
An iPad bag is designed specifically so that you can carry your iPad and everything you need to do with it easily and securely. Slim and highly portable, the Knomo Netbook Messenger Bag is a sleek solution for the on-the-go professional. Made with genuine leather on the flap and sides, it’s highly practical and beautifully stylish. The adjustable strap and soft construction make it comfortable to carry ensuring it’s the perfect messenger. Capable of carrying the accessories to go with the iPad, this bag will transport and protect your iPad in style.

iPad Dock Stand
If you want the most secure dock for your iPad, this is definitely the one for you. The biggest iPad dock we have so far, this one provides maximum support for the iPad while it syncs and charges. With a large base, the iPad dock stand has extra stability and great quality and construction. Covering the whole length of the iPad base, this stand will hold your iPad up with no problems while it syncs and charges. Coming in a classic matte black finish, you can’t go wrong with this iPad dock. You can also use it with an iPhone or an iPod, although they may look a bit small on the large stand.

OtterBox iPad Defender Case
This is the toughest iPad Case on the market! Drop-proof your magical, new must-have gadget with the OtterBox Defender Series for Apple iPad! This cutting-edge case incorporates three layers of hardcore protection plus some advanced features. Stowing your iPad away for the night or for your commute? Simply remove the back polycarbonate cover and snap it over the face for ultimate touch screen protection. The built-in stand will come in handy while trying to watch a movie or video, and creates a comfortable browsing experience. When using your iPad on a flat surface, the silicone grip pads on the bottom will hold your device securely in place. We also designed this case to accommodate the optional iPad dock accessory! Take your iPad everywhere you go knowing that it is safe from the occasional drop, bump and/or scratch.

Power Support Anti Glare iPad Screen Protector
Well regarded as the best iPad screen protector in the world and our best selling iPad Screen Protector, the Power Support iPad Screen Protector protects your device from scratches, dust and dirt with the added benefit of reducing glare and fingerprints. Static-cling adhesive film is incredibly easy to apply and leaves no residue if removed. The anti-glare film uses a special matte finish that effectively reduces glare and fingerprints and provides traction for improved responsiveness. See every detail on the display – This custom-fit, die-cut, matte-finish film in no way affects the visual output of the LCD screen. And even better, it’s remarkably easy to install.

The iPad is proving to be incredibly popular with everyone from casual users through to businesses introducing them into their daily lives. It’s great for internet, gaming and reading, but with Pages and Numbers available for the iPad, it’s also great for writing your reports, essays and letters on while you’re out and about.

Like the iPhone, the iPad has a touchscreen keyboard which is really easy to type on, but not everyone gets on with it as the lack of feedback when you press a key does feel a little strange. To overcome this one of the best iPad accessories you can invest in an iPad Bluetooth Keyboard.

These come in a range of shapes and sizes and are incredibly easy to set up – just turn it on, go to the Bluetooth Settings on your iPad and select the keyboard. Once you’ve entered your passkey you’re ready to start typing at full speed on a normal keyboard.

GearZap sell a number of iPad Keyboards, so I thought I’d take some time trying out some of our most popular ones and here’s how I got on with each of them.

KeyCase iPad Folio Case with Built in Bluetooth Keyboard

This is a great idea and I’m surprised that no other manufacturers have released one yet. It’s a protective carry case that has a bluetooth keyboard built into the inside cover and folds so that you can also use it as a desk stand. The keyboard is made from a soft silicone, so you won’t get the firm clicking that you’ll get with a regular desktop keyboard, but you do get more feed back from it than you would by using the on screen keyboard.

iPad Folio KeyCase with built in Keyboard

Unlike most of the Bluetooth Keyboards, you don’t need to worry about having to constantly replace batteries. The keyboard has a built in rechargable battery that uses the same charger as your iPad. As it’s made for iPad, the keyboard features all the standard Mac buttons, including volume, music controls and the command and option keys. This may not sound like that big a deal, but if the keyboard didn’t have them you wouldn’t be able to use any of the keyboard shortcuts (such as Cmd-A to select all, Cmd-C to copy etc..) while using your iPad.

Building the keyboard into the case is a great idea as it means you’re always going to have it with you. The case doesn’t add a lot of bulk to your iPad and the soft silicone keypad helps to protect the screen of your iPad when the case is closed.

Apple Bluetooth Keyboard for iPad

This is the same Bluetooth Keyboard that’s included with all new Apple iMacs. It’s an incredibly thin, full sized keyboard that pairs quickly and easily with the iPad. It’s obviously got all the Mac keys, so all your shorcuts will work. It looks great and has proper keys that press and click as any desktop keyboard would. The only slight down side is that it’s powered by two AA batteries rather than being rechargable – having said that I’ve been using one of these keyboards for a few months with my Mac at home and the battery life is excellent. The keyboard goes into power saving mode as soon as it’s not being used and comes back on as soon as a key is pressed.

Apple iPad Bluetooth Keyboard

The keyboard is light and portable, but the keys do stand out from the keyboard, so you’ll need to be careful carrying this around in your bag as it’s likely to get damage or lose a few keys, so for that reason I’d say this is a better option if you want a keyboard to leave at home or on your desk rather than to carry around with you.

Flexible Bluetooth Mini Keyboard

I’ve got mixed thoughts on this one as it’s clearly been designed with Windows users in mind. Its a compact silicone keyboard that rolls up when not in use, making it perfect for carrying around and using on the go – in a way. Because this keyboard is flexible, you need to use it on a flat surface, so if you’re planning on using this on the train, or on a park bench in your lunch break, you’re not going to find it particularly easy.

Flexible Bluetooth Mini Keyboard

The keyboard has a built in rechargeable battery, but charges using a USB cable connected to your PC and uses a different cable to your iPad. The keys on it are similar to those on the Folio Case – a soft silicone that is dust and splash proof and is silent to use, but as I mentioned earlier, this keyboard has been designed for Windows and Symbian devices, more so than the iPad.

There are a number of keys on it that won’t do anything with iPad, and as there are no Mac buttons you won’t be able to use any keyboard shortcuts either.

Summary

If you need a simple, portable keyboard for occaisional typing then the Flexible Bluetooth Mini Keyboard will do the job nicely, but if you plan on using it more often or want the abilty to use keyboard shortcuts, then I’d recommend going for one of the other two keyboards instead.

There are other iPad Bluetooth Keyboards available, these are just the three that I think work the best with the iPad. If you’ve seen an iPad Keyboard that works really well that we’ve not mentioned here, let us know using the comments form below.