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 (2020) / Air 4 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 (2020) / Air 4 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 (2020) is the first non-Pro iPad with USB-C, Pencil 2 and Magic Keyboard — LED Liquid Retina 10.9″, A14 Bionic 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 (2020) supports the Apple Pencil 2nd generation — it charges wirelessly on the right side of the iPad and offers pressure sensitivity plus double-tap. The cheaper Apple Pencil USB-C charges over USB-C and skips pressure sensitivity. At RPD you'll find Pencil tips, grips and cases that improve grip and prevent rolling. Pencil 1 and Pencil Pro are not compatible with this iPad.
The iPad Air (2020) 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 (2020) has a USB-C port. It is the first non-Pro iPad with USB-C — a major turning point for the entire iPad Air range. 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 (2020) supports the Apple Pencil 2 (wireless side charging, pressure sensitivity, double-tap) and the cheaper Apple Pencil USB-C. Pencil 1 and Pencil Pro 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
