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aevan

macrumors 601
Original poster
Feb 5, 2015
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Serbia
Recently I got the Apple silicone case for my iPad Pro. I wasn't worried about damaging it, but liked the look and wanted to feel relaxed when putting the iPad against various surfaces while drawing. It was on for only a few days and then I took it off for some cleaning as there was dust gathered alongside the edges. To my surprise, I found a scratch on the back. Now, there is a chance it was there before I put my case on but I just didn't notice it. Then again, I remember cleaning the back before putting on the case (so that I wouldn't trap anything inside that could cause damage). Maybe some dust got in and I scratched it while removing the case, I don't know. I've used Apple's leather cases on iPads and iPhones before without issues, so I would be a bit surprised if the case itself was the culprit. Look, I don't care that much for a few scratches, but if I can get a case and not worry about it, why not? But now I'm a bit disappointed - this case wasn't exactly cheap. Then again, perhaps the scratch had nothing to do with it and it's actually good protection. So, I wanted to ask you about your experiences. Do you think an official Apple case can actually do more harm then good, or is it the other way around. Thanks.
 
All snug fitting cases have the potential to scratch. A very small bit of debris between the case and the device can scratch. This isn't unique to Apple.
 
All snug fitting cases have the potential to scratch. A very small bit of debris between the case and the device can scratch. This isn't unique to Apple.

But isn't the whole point of a case to prevent, not cause damage?
 
I think you'd need to have something pretty solid wedged in there, like a small rock, to cause damage. Dust or lint isn't going to scratch anodized aluminum.

Then I guess it happened before I put the thing on. Thanks.
 
Cases need to be removed on occasion at grit that will get between the case and device will abrade the anodized surface of the device. This includes phone and iPads.

It is not dust and lint that hurts but any grit like sand will do a number on your device. Soft or gummy cases are very attractive to grit and debris.
 
But isn't the whole point of a case to prevent, not cause damage?

As already mentioned any case can scratch the back of your device if there's even the tiniest of hard debris in between the device and case. Nothing bar regular inspections and cleaning will prevent this.

If you're really concerned about getting scratches, do what I do, fit a clear skin to the rear of your device. This has the benefit of preventing any scratches and because the film is so thin its still compatible with pretty much any case.
 
I always use cases. Yeah silicon cases tend to collect dust and such more, if its a large piece between the case and iPad it may cause scratches. Though I never had any issues like this. Could be before you got a case.
 
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