Best Heavy Duty Cases for iPad Air 3 in 2020

Poetic iPad case
Poetic iPad case (Image credit: Poetic)

iPads are very expensive, which is something to remember when it comes time to buy one. The iPad Air 3, which launched in 2019, isn't an iPad Pro, but buying one will still dent your wallet. Because of this, we recommend purchasing a rugged case for your new tablet. Whether you're an adult or child, one of the following cases will get the job done for many years to come.

All about compatibility

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The 2019 iPad Air 3 and the 2017 10.5-inch iPad Pro use the same cases, which is something to keep in mind when looking for an excellent case for your new 10.5-inch iPad. Understand, however, that the 10.5-inch iPad Pro has four speakers (two on each side), while the iPad Air 3 has two. So any cases explicitly made for the 10.5-inch iPad Pro might have an unnecessary second cutout or grill for speakers. Plus, the 10.5-inch iPad Pro has True Tone Flash, while the iPad Air does not. So, any camera holes are going to be bigger than they need to be.

Whether you're interested in our favorite, the Poetic iPad case or one with a keyboard, the ZAGG Rugged Messenger, or the ProCase Kids Case, these rugged iPad cases will get the job done.

Bryan M Wolfe
Staff Writer

Bryan M. Wolfe has written about technology for over a decade on various websites, including TechRadar, AppAdvice, and many more. Before this, he worked in the technology field across different industries, including healthcare and education. He’s currently iMore’s lead on all things Mac and macOS, although he also loves covering iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch. Bryan enjoys watching his favorite sports teams, traveling, and driving around his teenage daughter to her latest stage show, audition, or school event in his spare time. He also keeps busy walking his black and white cocker spaniel, Izzy, and trying new coffees and liquid grapes.