Top kid-friendly case and keyboard options for iPad 10

By

OtterBox EasyClean Tablet Case
Put the iPad 10 in a very protective case before handing it to child, like this one from OtterBox.
Photo: OtterBox

The just-released iPad 10 is a major update, but the design changes mean new cases are required. Fortunately, accessory makers OtterBox and Logitech quickly brought out several of them for designed with children in mind.

A kid-friendly stylus is also an option.

An iPad 10 case just makes sense

Carrying an iPad around without some protection isn’t smart: most of the front of the tablet is breakable, scratchable screen.

And this is especially true if the user is young – the target market for the iPad 10. Children are still developing coordination, and that makes them clumsy. They drop things… including computers.

Wrap the tablet in a case so it can survive being dropped. And while Apple’s own Magic Keyboard Folio has a lot to offer, at $249 it might not be the best option for a 9 year old.

OtterBox EasyClean Tablet Case with Screen Protector

Don’t worry if a PB&J goes astray, the Kids EasyClean iPad 10 case from OtterBox is designed to slip off easily and go right into a dishwasher. And it comes with a screen protector.

Designed for younger users, a large handle makes the case easier to hold, and it also functions as a stand so kids can use the touchscreen with both hands.

OtterBox promises its product is drop tested to meet military standard (MIL-STD-810G 516.6). That means it’s capable of surviving multiple 4-foot drops onto a hard surface.

OtterBox EasyClean Tablet Case with Screen Protector comes in red or blue, and costs $69.95.

Logitech Combo Touch for iPad 10

Logitech Combo Touch for iPad 10
The Logitech Combo Touch is designed with children in mind.
Photo: Logitech

As students move up through the grades, a keyboard becomes necessary. The Logitech Combo Touch is a clamshell case  for Apple’s new 10.9-inch tablet with a kid-proof keyboard and trackpad. The magnetic keyboard is removable for drawing on the display.

The case has been tested to withstand drops up to 6.5 feet, and is ready to survive being chartered in a backpack.

Logitech Combo Touch for iPad 10 comes in light or dark grey, and is available for $159.99.

Zagg Messenger Folio 2 for iPad 10

Zagg Messenger Folio 2 for iPad 10
The Zagg Messenger Folio 2 turns the iPad 10 into a small laptop.
Photo: Zagg

The Zagg Messenger Folio 2 isn’t as rugged as Logitech’s option but it’s about half the price. Perhaps it’s better for older kids who’ll be easier on the device.

It wraps around the front and back of the latest iPad to cushion it. Open the clamshell to reveal a laptop-style keyboard.

Zagg Messenger Folio 2 is $69.99.

Don’t forget the stylus

The iPad 10 supports Apple Pencil 1 which has a Lightning connector, but the tablet itself charges via USB-C. An adapter is necessary to make them work together.

The updated Logitech Crayon is a kid-friendly stylus that also charges via USB-C.

Newsletters

Daily round-ups or a weekly refresher, straight from Cult of Mac to your inbox.

  • The Weekender

    The week's best Apple news, reviews and how-tos from Cult of Mac, every Saturday morning. Our readers say: "Thank you guys for always posting cool stuff" -- Vaughn Nevins. "Very informative" -- Kenly Xavier.