The iPad Air 5 is no longer Apple's flagship iPad Air, having been succeeded by the iPad Air 6, which has a faster M2 chip and now comes in two sizes, with a 13-inch variant joining the lineup in 2024. But the iPad Air 5, now cheaper, is not to be sniffed at. It features the M1 chip, 5G connectivity, faster USB-C port, and improved camera system with Center Stage.
Even the previous iPad Air can still be considered expensive, sitting between the regular iPad and the iPad Pro. Surely you'll want to protect your investment with the right case for your needs, right? Here are some of the best iPad Air 5 cases. If you want more functionality, give one of the best iPad Air 5 keyboard cases a try instead.
Note that the iPad Air 5 is exactly the same size as the iPad Air 4, so the cases are interchangeable.
Quick List
Best overall
Great price, looks, and functionality: this case has it all. A hard plastic cover protects the back while the front cover has Sleep/Wake functionality and folds back into a stand. The case is compatible with Apple Pencil charging and comes in a wide variety of colors and fun patterns.
Best for minimalists
Apple's "Smart" lineup is so named because of the handy Sleep/Wake functionality upon opening and closing the folio cover. Note that this case is ultra-minimalist. Though the back is covered, it is only attached magnetically so the iPad edges are not covered at all.
Best Smart Folio alternative
Functionally quite similar to Apple's Smart Folio, this offering from ESR is considerably less expensive. Like the Apple case, it's magnetically attached to the back for minimalist coverage, so you won't get protection around the edges. Like Apple's, it comes in a handful of color options.
Best for your Apple Pencil
Offering a bit more protection than the ultra-slim cases, this option from Fintie has complete all-around protection and a secure slot for charging your Apple Pencil. It comes in a huge variety of colors and fun patterns. The front cover folds back into a stand and has Sleep/Wake functionality.
Best for rugged good looks
If you want a bit more protection but you don't want to compromise on looks, check out this unique case. It exceeds military drop-test standards and is even water-resistant. The Apple Pencil slot allows charging on the go. Choose from a few color options.
Best for Apple loyalists
If you use your iPad Air for work or other scenarios where you do a lot of typing, consider the Magic Keyboard. As noted in our review, the gorgeous cantilever design, trackpad, USB-C port for pass-through charging, and dreamy typing experience make this the ultimate choice for many.
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Best Magic Keyboard alternative
Apple's Magic Keyboard cost too much? ESR has a less expensive keyboard case to consider. The iPad Air attaches magnetically in either portrait or landscape orientation and can be set up at different angles. The seven-color backlit keyboard includes a trackpad as well.
Best for protection
Sleek carbon fiber detailing with a matte black finish makes this case look good, while Air Cushion Technology makes it protective. The Apple Pencil charging area is open for charging on the go, and the closure tab goes around the pencil to keep it securely in place.
Best for carrying
OK, so we know this case isn't the most beautiful, but it is a tough, rugged case if you need that extra protection. If you take the iPad Air on the job site, this case gives you multiple way to carry and hold the iPad Air plus plenty of protection. It's also a good option if you let your kids use your iPad Air.
Q & A
Which of the best iPad Air 5 cases should you buy?
The iPad Air 5 is a beauty for sure. Luckily, it's the same size as the iPad Air 4, so any iPad Air 4 cases will also fit just fine. If I have to choose just one case that most people will like, I'd go for the MoKo Case. No matter your taste, you'll find a color or pattern you like. The case is quite thin, so it doesn't bulk up the delightfully lightweight iPad Air. It has all of the functionality you expect from a case: Apple Pencil charging compatibility, Sleep/Wake functionality, and the folio folds into a stand that lets you place your iPad Air at two angles for either typing or watching videos.
If you're looking for something a bit more rugged but don't want to compromise on looks, the Spigen Rugged Armor Pro for iPad Air might be the one for you. It's not terribly bulky, but it offers full-coverage protection including a tab that holds the folio closed and keeps the Apple Pencil safely in place.
