Cygnett Paradox Texture Case
Price: £35 (US$50, AU$64)
Put next to a few of the cases in this list, the Cygnett Paradox Texture case is a comparative weakling and won't be of much help should you drop the iPad.
We've included it because of its unique take on the whole tablet case thing - there's no boring 'fold over to become a stand' approach here.
Instead you sort of mangle it origami-style to form a pyramid construction and fit the iPad into that - very similar to the same ones seen for the Amazon Kindle Fire HDX, in fact.
The textured finish is admirable too and a magnetic closure system ensures that the cover won't flap open in transit.
Targus Versavu Rotating Case
Price: £45 (US$50, AU$60)
Tough plastic is the order of the day here and whilst the Targus Versavu is perhaps not the most stylish of the cases listed here, it's certainly the best all-rounder.
It offers protection and functionality in equal measure with few concessions in important areas.
There's 360 degree rotation to be had in both portrait and landscape orientation when used as a stand, and it's as sturdy as some of the more rugged options only nowhere near as bulky.
That said, it is a touch on the heavy side and it doesn't support the Smart Wake function, but you can't have everything I suppose.
Gumdrop Bounce iPad Air
Price: £21 (US$35, about AU$38)
The Gumdrop Bounce is the most aptly named accessory in this rundown - its tyre tread rubber outer looks almost edible and your first reaction is to take a bite.
Don't do that though - although if you did you'd still struggle to put a mark on the tablet, such is this case's ample rubbery protection.
A snug fit all-round, the rubber outer contains 'air chamber protection' which means air bubbles within the silicon that help disperse impact shock.
Buttons and ports are easily reached via the precision cut-outs and both cameras have their own little porthole too. The only downside to this one is that it's a bit hefty and would look faintly ridiculous in a business meeting.
Urban Armour Gear Scout Case
Price: US$50 (about £30, AU$54)
Had The Terminator been made in the last few years, this is the case Arnie would have his tablet wrapped in, with the exterior armour perhaps more suited to the battlefield than the boardroom. This case can take a serious battering and your iPad Air wouldn't feel a thing.
It is very bulky however, and the hard, gummy shell does lend it the appearance of one of those stow-away boxes you keep power tools in.
That said the Scout case is deceptively light and the build quality is excellent. It doesn't support the Smart Wake feature but it can be fashioned into a stand for both portrait and landscape use.
