Depending on the model one to three cards, some add a window or a cash pocket. Too many cards strain the cover and loosen the closure over time.
Usually only with the cover open or the device removed; cards in the slot block charging too. For regular Qi or MagSafe charging a back cover is more practical.
Good cases have a soft inner lining against the screen. Combined with a screen protector you are on the safe side.
Quality bookcases use several magnets or a flap. Very full card slots work against the closure, so the cover eventually pops open on its own.
Guide & know-how
A flip case (bookcase) wraps around the iPad Air 11” (2024) / Air 6 like a book and covers the display too. That protects the screen in your bag and usually adds a card slot.
Many models include a stand function so the iPad Air 11” (2024) / Air 6 props up for video, and a slot for one to three cards. Look for a magnetic closure that holds well and a cutout that lets you take calls without opening the cover.
If you want a slim device, a back cover suits you better. If you want cards and screen protection in one, take the flip case.
The iPad Air 11″ (2024) is the M2 Air in the new 11-inch format — LED Liquid Retina 11″, M2 chip and USB-C. A good case protects the display and the aluminium back from scratches, drops and table edges, and preserves the resale value of your device.
Smart Folio are Apple's standard cases for the iPad Air range — light, magnetic, with automatic sleep/wake. Folio cases wrap front and back, often with a built-in stand. Hard cases and bumpers in TPU or polycarbonate are tougher and ideal on the go. A sleeve adds protection in a backpack. Cut-outs match the cameras and the USB-C port exactly.
Three options. PET or hydrogel film is the cheap pick — reliable scratch protection and easy to fit. Paper-feel film turns the display matte and is ideal for drawing or note-taking with the Pencil — it mimics paper and cuts reflections. Tempered glass is the most scratch-resistant option and protects best against drops, but costs more. On iPads with Pencil we recommend paper-feel or hydrogel — glass can slightly alter Pencil feel.
The iPad Air 11″ (2024) supports the Apple Pencil Pro with pressure sensitivity, squeeze, haptic feedback, barrel roll and Find My — the most advanced Pencil. The Pencil Pro charges wirelessly on the side of the iPad. The cheaper Apple Pencil USB-C also works — no pressure sensitivity, but USB-C charging. At RPD you'll find Pencil Pro tips, grips and cases to keep the stylus clean and prevent rolling. The older Pencil 2 is not compatible with this Air.
The iPad Air 11″ (2024) is compatible with the original Magic Keyboard — the same keyboard made for the iPad Pro 11″. It floats magnetically on the iPad, has a full trackpad and backlit keys. A cheaper alternative is Apple's Smart Keyboard Folio without trackpad or a Bluetooth keyboard in a folio case. Note: the new Magic Keyboard for iPad Air from the M2/M3 generation does not fit this model.
The iPad Air 11″ (2024) has a USB-C port. At RPD you'll find USB-C cables in different lengths, USB-C Power Delivery chargers, USB-C hubs with HDMI / USB-A / SD slot, USB-C to Lightning adapters and USB-C headphone adapters. To use the iPad with an external display or SD card you'll need a hub — we stock compact models from Anker, Satechi, Belkin and HyperDrive.
The iPad Air 11″ (2024) supports the Apple Pencil Pro (wireless side charging, squeeze, haptic, barrel roll, Find My) and the cheaper Apple Pencil USB-C. Pencil 1 and Pencil 2 are not compatible.
The original Magic Keyboard (made for iPad Pro 11″) fits this model. The new Magic Keyboard for iPad Air from the M2/M3 generation does not fit. The Smart Keyboard Folio without trackpad and Bluetooth keyboards are further options.
The Apple display is hard but not scratch-proof against sand, grit or hardened steel. A protector adds reliable defence — hydrogel is the most invisible option, tempered glass the toughest. If you draw with the Pencil, choose paper-feel film — it mimics paper and cuts reflections.
Hard cases with reinforced corners and TPU bumpers offer the highest drop protection. Folio cases protect front and back at the same time. A sleeve adds protection in a backpack. Importantly, look for a slightly raised lip around the display and camera, so neither rests directly on the table.
The tablet has a USB-C port. A USB-C cable and a Power Delivery adapter of at least 20 W are enough for charging. For external displays, SD cards or USB-A devices a USB-C hub is useful. USB-C headphones plug in directly, while older 3.5mm headphones need a USB-C to 3.5mm adapter.
RPD stocks cases and accessories for every iPad generation. Browse
