I don’t know about you, but I’m pretty overwhelmed by all of the iPad case choices out there. As with any time Apple launches an iOS device (e.g., iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch), within a few days/weeks/months, there are a slew of cases that trail behind. I kind of equate it to an ice cream truck going down the street with a parade of kids running after it. So, what is the process of buying a case for your new iPad? I typically would recommend going to a store (like the Apple Store or another reseller of Apple products) and physically check them out in person. At least for me, the case is a very personal thing, much like the apps or wallpaper you might put on a device. A case can reflect who you are, how active you are, what type of environment you will be in and how you use the device. For example, my iPhone has an external battery case that provide protection and extra battery life when I need it.

The folks at Targus took this idea of “personality” really to heart when they created a website that can help you figure out the type of person you are and the type of case you should get for your iPad. The site, called “Protect What’s Inside” (http://www.protectwhatsinside.com), really begs to be explored and played with. There is a handy wizard called “What’s Your UFactor?” that walks you through a series of personality and usage questions to help create a recommendation for a case.

You start by first choosing if you are Male or Female. The next choice is the type of music you like. Instead of listing out genres, it shows you a series of pictures:

Next it asks you for your favorite activity:

Then is asks you what your style is:

After that, you are asked how you get around:

Lastly, it asks you what your favorite app is:

Once you answer the five questions, you are given a case recommendation that matches the profile you just created. For me, while I answered as accurately as possible, it is not the case that I actually wanted. I was told that I had a 33% match to the Crave case. There are percentage matches provided for the other cases: the A7, the Truss, the Z-case and the Hughes.

Just to get it out there, I ended up selecting the Hughes. Read on and I will tell you why, but first, let’s quickly take a look at the cases.

The Truss

The Truss has the following features:

• Hard shell to protect the glass and your precious iPad inside from bending
• Soft lining will prevent scratches on the screen if you have your iPad in a larger bag
• Built-in stand is incredibly useful if you are watching videos or reading books, but it also folds flat
• 3 Colors: brown/orange, beige/green and black/blue (exterior/interior)
• MSRP: $49.99
• Current Amazon price: $46.65

The Z-Case

The Z-Case has the following features:

• Hard molded shell that will protect your iPad from damage – hard case prevents bending
• Soft lining that prevents scratches and pampers your iPad
• Magnetic closure that keeps all pockets closed but still allows for easy access
• 3 Colors: mustard/teal, orange/brown and black/blue (exterior/interior)
• MSRP: $54.99
• Current Amazon price: $48.09

The A7

The AZ has the following features:

• Water-resistant material protects your iPad from (some of) the elements
• Tri-Cell cushion system dissipates heat while absorbing shock via the foam
• Water-resistant, self-healing zippers will provide an airtight seal to keep rain or water droplets away from your iPad
• 4 Colors: plum, brown, blue and black
• MSRP: $24.99
• Current Amazon price: $24.99

The Crave

The Crave has the following features:

• Stain-guard coating helps protect the look and feel of your case
• Scratch-resistant lining helps ensure that your iPad remains blemish-free
• Water-resistant, self-healing zipper makes sure that you zipper doesn’t become derailed
• Retractable handle stows away when not in use
• Water-resistant exterior keeps moisture away from your iPad
• Additional pockets to stow more stuff
• 2 Colors: silver and black
• MSRP: $34.99
• Current Amazon price: $30.02

The Hughes

The Hughes has the following features:

• Durable oil-tanned leather exterior
• Scratch-resistant lining keeps your iPad scratch-free when in transport
• Magnetic closer holds the case closed and makes for quick, easy opening
• 2 Colors: black and brown
• MSRP: $59.99
• Current Amazon price: $53.94

The Hughes is the one that I went with simply because it was an elegant choice that would look good in a business environment or simply on the go. I like the smell and feel of leather and even if you get scratches on the exterior (which you will if you choose real leather), the iPad inside is still protected. I wish that Targus had found a way to provide as means for it to be “prop-able” so that there was a slight angle for easier typing, but since you actually remove your iPad from this case, that sort of defeats the purpose. I also like the balance of an “old school” look that is protecting a “new school” device inside. It’s a nice dichotomy actually.

HighTechDad Rating

Since I only had hands on with the Hughes, my ratings below reflect that. However in general, based on the designs, specifications, pricing and features, I feel that the Targus iPad case line is pretty darn good. The price points are reasonable and the designs are very creative. It is really nice to see a case designer thinking about personalities and different use cases when designing something as potentially “boring” as an iPad case. As I said, the case somewhat defines the user and Targus’ site that helps you choose your case based on your “personality” is an innovative and creative one. Also as this is not really a gadget, some of the categories don’t really apply (but I have made an effort).

EASY TO GEEK FACTOR – is the device easy to get up and running

FAMILY FRIENDLY – does the device fit well into family environments

RECOMMENDABILITY– would I recommend it to others (more means “yes”)

PRICE POINT – does the price reflect the product function

OVERALL – my general rating

Disclosure Text : I have a material connection because I received a gift or sample of a product for consideration in preparing to write this content. I was/am not expected to return this item or gift after my review period. More information can be found in my About page as well as here.

HTD says: When it comes to getting a case for your iPad, get one that matches your personality. Targus can help you do just that!

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