What are the best kids’ tablet cases?
Kids can be rough on their electronics so when you give them a big-ticket item like an iPad you want to be sure that it’ll be protected. You’ll need a durable case — something that can withstand drops, bumps and sticky fingers. Fortunately, there are plenty of options that will protect your kids’ tablets, from heavy-duty shockproof cases for a toddler’s first tablet to something slender and minimalist for teenagers with the newest iPad.
Kids’ tablet case style
Hard cases
Hard cases resemble most phone cases, usually with a hard shell on the outside with a softer rubber inner liner. They protect the back and sides of the tablet, but not the front. Hard cases are a great choice for kids, provided that you also purchase a tablet screen protector.
If you’re in need of a tablet for kids, check out the kids’ tablets buying guide on BestReviews.
Slim cases
Slim cases provide a minimum amount of protection but have the sleekest design and are the most budget-friendly options. It is also easier to throw a slim case into a backpack than a bigger shockproof case, as it takes up much less room. However, due to its lack of protection, slim cases would not be the best choice for younger kids.
Shockproof cases
These cases are generally made with EVA foam with reinforced edges and are designed to protect against every bump and drop your kids can dole out. A shockproof case can include cut-outs for speakers and ports for charging or headphones and some even offer additional screen protection.
Kids’ tablet case features
Screen protector
You’ll definitely need a screen protector, not only to protect from food, dirt and germs, but also from scratches and cracks that occur when the tablet is inevitably dropped. A case provides protection for the back and sides of the device but often does not provide much if any protection for the front of the tablet.
Stand
Stands are an underrated tablet accessory that can be quite handy. Stands can provide hands-free viewing so kids don’t need to slump down while holding their device and can sit back and relax their neck and shoulder muscles. Some tablet cases have multidirectional stands that can be adjusted for a variety of viewing options.
Handle
Handles are great for kids’ tablets as sometimes the tablets themselves can be heavy and a case without handles can be too wide and unwieldy for little hands. A handle to hold the iPad would also reduce the instances of accidental drops. Adjustable carry straps are a great alternative to a handle and allow the iPad to be carried around the neck.
Keyboard
Some tablet cases are equipped with a keyboard, but most do not, so you’ll have to buy a keyboard as an extra accessory. It can cut down the time your kids spend hunting and pecking for keys, which can also increase the longevity of the tablet. The less time kids spend poking at the screen — no matter how durable the screen protector is — the longer the screen can last without scratches or cracks.
Kids’ tablet case cost
Some kids’ tablet cases can be surprisingly inexpensive at under $10. If you want something with more added protection, you’ll be spending close to $20 and if you want a screen protector included you should expect to go up to $30.
Which kids’ tablet case should I choose?
Best of the best kids’ tablet case
Otterbox Trusty Case for iPad 7th & 8th Generation: available at Amazon
Our take: Perfect for germaphobes, this durable case is infused with an additive that blocks germ growth.
What we like: Available in three fun colors, this heavy-duty case also comes with a separate stand that attaches to a car headrest so your child can watch the tablet hands-free while on the go. The edges are specially designed to be grabbed easily and the material wipes clean with little effort.
What we dislike: No screen protector included.
Best bang for your buck kids’ tablet case
ANTIKE Shockproof Lightweight Kids Friendly Case: available at Amazon
Our take: Durable and easy to handle, this goof-proof case provides a tough layer of protection against bumps, drops or throws and you don’t have to remove the case to charge your tablet.
What we like: Available in eight bright colors, this budget-friendly tablet case is made with non-toxic EVA foam rubber material that is easy for little hands to hold. Unlike some other tablet cases, there are clear cutouts for the buttons, ports, charges, speakers and rear camera.
What we dislike: This case does not include a kickstand.
Best rugged kids’ tablet case
SHREBORN Fire HD 8 Kid-Proof Case with Stand Handle: available at Amazon
Our take: This Kindle case is a must-have for any child who is particularly rough with their toys and electronics.
What we like: Kindle Fire HD case comes with handles, raised bezel edges to ensure your screen is protected during a fall and a foldable stand offering two different viewing orientations. This multifunctional case comes in seven vivid colors and features an easy-to-carry handle. Made of non-toxic EVA foam with two foldable stands in the rear and contains cutouts for ports and speakers.
What we dislike: This tablet case only fits a Kindle Fire HD 8.
Best kids’ tablet case with rotating kickstand
BRAECNstock Samsung Galaxy Tab Shockproof Case: available at Amazon
Our take: Perfect for extra-rough use, this case is scratch-resistant and shockproof.
What we like: This incredibly durable case features a rotating kickstand for multi-angle viewing and a detachable strap so kids can carry their tablets with them wherever they go. Made from premium hard polycarbonate and silicone, this case will withstand the roughest and toughest treatment from kids.
What we dislike: It does not include a screen protector.
Best all-in-one kids’ tablet case set
ITEAFCOM Case for iPad for 7th and 8th Generation: available at Amazon
Our take: Bright and bold iPad case with all the bells and whistles.
What we like: Available in four colors, this case includes a shockproof heavy duty cover, a rotating kickstand and a pencil holder. It also features a scratch-proof screen protector, a raised lip for camera protection and straps so you can hang up the tablet for viewing or easily carry it with you.
What we dislike: Some people felt it wasn’t comfortable to hold for long periods of time.
Stefanie Hammond is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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