Will iPad Air 2 or iPad Pro cases fit the new 9.7-inch iPad?

By Serenity Caldwell
published

Though Apple's new entry-level 9.7-inch iPad may look very similar to its predecessor (the iPad Air 2) and high-end cousin (the 9.7-inch iPad Pro), it's hiding a little extra bulk behind that 9.7-inch frame. Height and width-wise, all three iPads are identical, but in a somewhat puzzling move, Apple's new entry-level iPad is a full 1.4 mm thicker.

This unfortunately means that if you owned cases for either the iPad Air 2 or 9.7-inch iPad Pro, none of them will fit this new iPad. Interestingly enough, you're more likely to be able to fit the new iPad in an original iPad Air case — their dimensions are identical, though you'll likely run into problems with the rear camera cutout.

Get the full lowdown on size specs below.

Swipe to scroll horizontally
CategoryiPad (2017)9.7-inch iPad ProiPad Air 2
Thickness0.29 inches
(7.5 mm)		0.24 inches
(6.1 mm)		0.24 inches
(6.1 mm)
Height9.4 inches
(240 mm)		9.4 inches
(240 mm)		9.4 inches
(240 mm)
Width6.6 inches
(169.5 mm)		6.6 inches
(169.5 mm)		6.6 inches
(169.5 mm)

Okay, but what cases can I buy?

Many manufacturers are still putting together new case models for the latest iPad, but if you're desperate, never fear: There are a couple options that will fit the 2017 9.7-inch iPad.

  • iPad Smart Cover - Buy from Apple (opens in new tab): The sole available case for the new iPad on Apple's website, the Smart Cover protects your iPad's screen when you're not using it (and acts as a foldable kickstand when you are).
  • Speck Balance Folio - Coming Soon (opens in new tab): Speck is in the midst of updating its popular multicolored foldable case and stand for the 9.7-inch iPad, and is allowing potential buyers to sign up for an email list so that they can get first dibs when the cases are available.
  • Logitech's Rugged Combo - Coming Soon (opens in new tab): Designed for the classroom, Logitech's Rugged Combo keyboard case offers a secure shell for the 9.7-inch iPad and a detachable keyboard. (For those who love old Mac laptops, it also has a distinctly PowerBook-era look.)

Questions?

Let us know below.

Serenity Caldwell
Serenity Caldwell

Serenity was formerly the Managing Editor at iMore, and now works for Apple. She's been talking, writing about, and tinkering with Apple products since she was old enough to double-click. In her spare time, she sketches, sings, and in her secret superhero life, plays roller derby. Follow her on Twitter @settern.

3 Comments
  • "but in a somewhat puzzling move." Your article has the answer you are looking for: none of the previous cases fit... So you have to BUY a new one! Just like Apple reversing the polarity of the magnets on the 9.7 pro so that my perfectly good Air 2 Leather case would work, even though it fits perfectly. Apple is really killing me lately.
  • The Wirecutter recommended the CaseCrown Omni Case for the iPad Air. The cut outs for the Volume rocker and Camera seem to be large enough to adjust to any minor changes. I just bought mine through Amazon. Fingers(and Toes) crossed it will work. :)
  • What about screen protectors? Should the ones from the ipad air 2/ pro/ air 1 work on with the new one/