I picked up the new Belkin Slim iPad 2 Folio Stand from Bestbuy today for my iPad 2. The price was $40, which I think was a better deal than the Apple Smart cover for iPad 2.
First impression:
The case is similar to the Apple case for the original (1st gen) iPad, especially when folded. It protects the entire iPad, front and back. The iPad fits very tightly, and it has holes to access all port, mic and cameras; except the sim slot. But you only need to undo the retaining flap to get to the sim door, without taking the iPad out of the case.
Details:
The folding design is a bit different as shown in the Belkin website, particularly in how it props up the iPad for display. However, it is rather similar to the Apple original case when folded, although not exactly in the same way (refer to photo). The case is slightly thicker on the side closer to the folding hinge, and thinner on the other side. The thickness is similar to the previous iPad case on the thinner side. So, overall, the Belkin case with iPad 2 feels just a bit thicker than the Apple case with iPad 1. However, recognizing that the Apple case was indeed the #1 thinnest case out there, this Belkin case deserves a #2; i.e., it's still much better than all other 3rd parties cases of similar design.
Material is also some sort of microfibre, like the Apple case, but perhaps a little thicker and a little better in quality. The surface appears to be less prone to showing finger grease. The inside of the case is black, and it feels like suede, which is likely to attract and show dust. All of the seams are sewed together by stitches. Again, the fit is very tight.
The color is grey, although it didn't come out exactly right in the photos. The grey color is definitely not as interesting as the pink Apple Smart cover. However, I prefer such a boring color as it hides some of the flashiness of the iPad. In the professional setting that I am in, I want people's attention to be on me rather than the new iPad 2.
Summary:
Pros - front and back full protection of iPad 2; can be used as a stand to prop up the iPad; price is very reasonable; appears to be durable.
Cons - feels just a little thicker than the original Apple case with iPad 1, which took away the "thin and light" improvement of iPad 2.
First impression:
The case is similar to the Apple case for the original (1st gen) iPad, especially when folded. It protects the entire iPad, front and back. The iPad fits very tightly, and it has holes to access all port, mic and cameras; except the sim slot. But you only need to undo the retaining flap to get to the sim door, without taking the iPad out of the case.
Details:
The folding design is a bit different as shown in the Belkin website, particularly in how it props up the iPad for display. However, it is rather similar to the Apple original case when folded, although not exactly in the same way (refer to photo). The case is slightly thicker on the side closer to the folding hinge, and thinner on the other side. The thickness is similar to the previous iPad case on the thinner side. So, overall, the Belkin case with iPad 2 feels just a bit thicker than the Apple case with iPad 1. However, recognizing that the Apple case was indeed the #1 thinnest case out there, this Belkin case deserves a #2; i.e., it's still much better than all other 3rd parties cases of similar design.
Material is also some sort of microfibre, like the Apple case, but perhaps a little thicker and a little better in quality. The surface appears to be less prone to showing finger grease. The inside of the case is black, and it feels like suede, which is likely to attract and show dust. All of the seams are sewed together by stitches. Again, the fit is very tight.
The color is grey, although it didn't come out exactly right in the photos. The grey color is definitely not as interesting as the pink Apple Smart cover. However, I prefer such a boring color as it hides some of the flashiness of the iPad. In the professional setting that I am in, I want people's attention to be on me rather than the new iPad 2.
Summary:
Pros - front and back full protection of iPad 2; can be used as a stand to prop up the iPad; price is very reasonable; appears to be durable.
Cons - feels just a little thicker than the original Apple case with iPad 1, which took away the "thin and light" improvement of iPad 2.
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