Accessories will be key whether you’re turning your new Apple iPad into a laptop replacement or just trying to protect it against daily-life hazards. It’s tempting to turn to Apple’s own accessories — and in some cases, you should — but there’s a slew of alternatives from other companies like Otterbox, Logitech and Anker, that work just as well and are often more affordable. We tested out a bunch of cases, keyboards, styli and other miscellany to determine which are the best iPad accessories to buy that will help you get the most out of your iPad, from the iPad Air to the iPad Mini or a different iPad model.
Quick Overview

  • Otterbox Symmetry Series 360 Case for iPad Pro

    $69 at Amazon

  • Twelve South HoverBar Duo for iPad

    $60 at Amazon

  • Logitech MX Keys Mini

    $100 at Amazon

  • Apple Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro

    $269 at Amazon

  • Apple Pencil (2nd Generation)

    $89 at Amazon
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Otterbox Symmetry 360 case


Otterbox Symmetry Series 360 Case for iPad Pro

Otterbox is an expert when it comes to protection, as seen with their phone cases, but its Symmetry Series 360 series shows that it has design chops, too.
$69 at Amazon

Otterbox is an expert when it comes to protection, as seen with their phone cases, but its Symmetry Series 360 series shows that it has design chops, too. Symmetry cases look similar to Apple’s Smart Cover, but the clear, scratch-resistant back is high-quality and sturdy without adding a lot of weight to the iPad. Plus, the edge protection is substantial, so you won’t have to worry about damage from the inevitable, accidental bumps your tablet takes. I also like the extra flap Otterbox added that keeps the iPad screen cover closed and holds the second-generation Apple Pencil to the side of the iPad Pros. Symmetry Series 360 cases are available for most iPad models, and while they’re more expensive than some no-name iPad case you might find on Amazon, they’re worth it if you want a great balance of protection and style.

Speaking of cheaper iPad cases that fill up Amazon’s search result pages, some that are actually worthwhile are from Moko and ProCase. If you like the look and feel of Apple’s Smart Cover, but don’t want to drop $50-plus on one, both of these brands have dupes that give you that style at a fraction of the cost of the first-party option. — Valentina Palladino, Senior Commerce Editor

Shop Moko cases at Amazon Shop ProCase cases at Amazon

Twelve South HoverBar Duo

Twelve South

Twelve South HoverBar Duo for iPad

The “duo” in this stand's name refers to the fact that it can either prop your iPad up using an arm attached to a weighted base, or the same arm just attached to a desk or table using its included clamp.
$60 at Amazon

Of the plethora of iPad stands I’ve used, Twelve South’s HoverBar Duo is the one that has come closest to perfect. The “duo” in the name refers to the fact that the gadget can either prop your iPad up using an arm attached to a weighted base, or the same arm just attached to a desk or table using its included clamp. The stand comes fully assembled on the weighted base, but it’s pretty easy to switch to the clamp thanks to the included instructions and basic tools in the box. If you spring for the latest model, it’ll be even easier thanks to a new quick-switch tab that lets you swap between the weighted base and the clamp attachment with any extra tools.