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 Incase’s Magazine Jacket ($50), specifically designed for the new iPad; see our review of the original here for in-depth details.
With its third iteration of this design, Incase made some of the improvements we previously called for but left a glaring issue intact. Gone is the archaic-feeling elastic strap. The lid is now held shut by magnets, which also lock and unlock the display. We found in our testing that the cover can accidentally trigger this feature if moved up or down just a very small amount, which could happen under the right circumstances in a bag. Although not as bad as some others we’ve tested, but worth being aware of. It’s unfortunate that our biggest problem with Magazine Jacket, its overexposure of the iPad’s top and bottom edges, remains. At this point more and more plastic shells are extending all the way, with cutouts for the ports and buttons; there’s no reason for Incase not to follow suit. Despite that, this edition of the case is still an improvement over the original, and earns our strong general recommendation.
Our Rating
Company and Price
Company: Incase
Website: www.GoIncase.com
Model: Magazine Jacket
Price: $50
Compatible: iPad (3rd-Gen)