With the release of the third-generation iPad, case manufacturers had to decide between coming out with completely new cases, or reissuing models that they had previously introduced for the similarly-shaped iPad 2; some chose to do both. Today we’re looking at a number of options that are rereleases of cases we’ve previously reviewed. Some are almost identical to their predecessors, while others have undergone changes but maintain the same name. These are all folio-style cases, with either a reinforced shell or frame structure to hold the tablet in place, and a front lid that offers protection and stand functionality. This review is focused on Griffin’s IntelliCase ($60), designed for the new iPad as well as the iPad 2; see our review of the original here for in-depth details.
The general concept of this folio case is the same as before, with a hard plastic shell, articulating front cover, and raised tab on the back to tuck in the lid and create a stand. This time around, Griffin went with a textured polyurethane cover rather than the flat one from before, which is somewhat nicer. It’s also tweaked the two points where the cover and shell connect, resulting in a less floppy hinge. This results in a raised bump running down the left side of the plastic, which is a bit unappealing to look at but doesn’t impact use of the case. We really would’ve liked to have seen the company take another stab at the opening for the Dock Connector and speaker, but it left the same wide hole as before. The improvements to IntelliCase are slight, and the $60 price tag still strikes us as about $10 too high. That being said, this version of the case is worthy of the same general recommendation as the prior model.
Our Rating
Company and Price
Company: Griffin Technology
Website: GriffinTechnology.com
Model: IntelliCase
Price: $60
Compatible: iPad 2/iPad (3rd-Gen)
