Best cases for iPad 2 – Updated

The sleeve

There are two basic types of sleeve: those that hold the naked iPad snugly in place, such as Griffin’s Elan Sleeve (the ‘for new iPad’ version), and those that are slightly larger and tend to zip up. We prefer the latter, as they give you the option to keep a silicone (or other) tight-fitting protective case on your device to protect it during use, while the sleeve keeps it safe in your rucksack.

If you’re after something striking, it’s hard to beat Cygnett’s Aerosphere. Its bubble texture feels brilliant and as it’s made from foam, gives decent front and back protection. The inside is lined with soft fleece (which also feels great) and there are four elastic corner straps to keep your iPad in place. If the grey and orange combination is too outlandish for you, there’s also an all-black version. The only snag is that it costs £30 (from Amazon) which is a bit steep.

Cygnett Aerosphere: 3/5

Griffin’s Elan Sleeve Lite is made from a combination of faux-leather and canvass. You can slide your iPad 2 in at either end, and a fabric loop prevents from slipping out the other end. The microsuede lining and tight fit also hold the iPad firmly in place, but it means you’ll have to remove any other cases, such as a silicone case. As this sleeve is so new, it’s not actually on sale yet, but we expect it to cost £20

Griffin Elan Sleeve Lite: 3/5

If you’re on a tighter budget, but still want a zip-up sleeve with room for a silicone case, iLuv’s Neoprene Sleeve costs £15 from www.iworld.co.uk and comes in black or bright pink. Its triangular pattern gives it a bit of style, but it doesn’t look as funky as Cygnett’s Aerosphere. The inside is lined with soft white fleece, ensuring a naked iPad won’t get scratched.

iLuv Neoprene Sleeve: 4/5