With so many similar designs for iPad cases in the world, a good customized option is always appreciated. M-Edge has brought that sort of personalization to iPad cases. Exactly 14 days after submitting a sample image to the company’s web-based case customization site, we received the new MyEdge Custom Jacket for iPad + iPad 2 ($50). A reinforced cotton canvas body and leather spine make this folio an attractive option, although like any other case designed to fit multiple generations of an Apple product, it does have its drawbacks.
Customizing M-Edge is a very easy process. Customers use a browser-based tool to either upload personal images or use a combination of 72 patterns, 62 colors, and text to create the preferred design. Next, the color of the leather spine is chosen—black or brown. The spine does interrupt the image, so it is important to take care in layout. Once everything has been put into place, a check box is used to confirm that the customer owns the rights to all of the images and accepts all other terms and conditions, and the case ships within two weeks.
While the color fidelity of the image printed on the soft, padded cotton may not be perfect, it’s not bad—pretty close, actually. Overall, build quality is high. The entire case is very sturdy with hard reinforcements in the front and back covers. Inside the folio is a suede lining; there is a pocket on the left side, and the iPad or iPad 2 fits in on the right. A total of four leather straps are used to secure the tablet: two stationary loops on the bottom, and a pair on top with elastic bands. Either generation iPad fits well, although the case seems better suited to the original model. Even though all four edges are completely exposed, it is a little bit more difficult to manipulate the side switch and volume rocker on the iPad 2 because of its tapered sides. The back camera is completely blocked, and the speaker is also covered, which muffles the sound a bit.
While we do appreciate MyEdge for what it is, we can only offer a limited recommendation because of a few important weaknesses. Yes, the personalization factor and overall quality are very nice, especially for the $50 asking price. However, making it more difficult to utilize the side controls and completely blocking the back camera are not small matters for iPad 2 users. If M-Edge were to tweak this jacket a bit to accommodate the new device, it would almost certainly have a winner on its hands.
Our Rating
Company and Price
Company: M-Edge
Website: www.M-Edge.com
Model: MyEdge
Price: $50
Compatible: iPad + iPad 2
