Apple Smart Folio For 11-inch IPad Pro (3rd Gen): Review

by Jhon Lennon 57 views

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the Apple Smart Folio designed specifically for the 11-inch iPad Pro (3rd Generation). If you're an iPad Pro user, you already know how crucial it is to protect your precious device while maintaining its sleek aesthetics and functionality. The Smart Folio promises to do just that, but does it live up to the hype? Let’s find out!

What is the Apple Smart Folio?

The Apple Smart Folio is essentially a cover designed to protect the screen of your 11-inch iPad Pro (3rd generation). It attaches magnetically to the iPad, offering a slim and lightweight solution compared to bulkier cases. Made from a single piece of polyurethane, it provides front and back protection. Beyond just safeguarding your iPad from scratches and minor bumps, the Smart Folio also offers a stand function for various viewing angles and automatically wakes or puts your iPad to sleep when opened or closed. This seamless integration with the iPad's functionality is a key selling point. Apple designed this with simplicity and elegance in mind. The material feels nice to the touch, and the magnetic attachment is strong enough to keep it securely in place. It's available in a range of colors, allowing you to personalize your iPad to suit your style. For students, professionals, or anyone who frequently uses their iPad on the go, the Smart Folio aims to be an indispensable accessory. It blends protection, functionality, and style in a way that complements the iPad Pro's design philosophy. However, it's important to consider whether its relatively minimal protection is sufficient for your needs, especially if you're prone to dropping your devices or using them in demanding environments.

Design and Build Quality

When it comes to Apple products, design and build quality are always at the forefront, and the Smart Folio is no exception. Crafted from a single sheet of polyurethane, the folio feels smooth and premium to the touch. The material is easy to wipe clean, which is a definite plus if you're prone to spills or using your iPad in messy environments. The magnets are strong and ensure that the folio stays firmly attached to your iPad. You won't have to worry about it accidentally detaching in your bag or while you're using it. The hinge is also well-designed and feels sturdy, allowing you to effortlessly switch between different viewing angles. One of the standout features of the Smart Folio is its slim profile. It adds minimal bulk to your iPad, preserving its sleek and lightweight design. This is a significant advantage over traditional cases, which can often make the iPad feel cumbersome. The color options are also tastefully chosen, ranging from classic black and white to more vibrant hues. This allows you to personalize your iPad to match your style. However, some users have noted that the polyurethane material can be prone to scratches and scuffs over time. While it's easy to clean, it may not be as durable as other materials like leather or reinforced plastic. Despite this minor drawback, the overall design and build quality of the Smart Folio are excellent. It's clear that Apple has paid attention to every detail, creating a product that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Protection

Okay, let’s talk protection. While the Apple Smart Folio looks sleek and stylish, its primary function is to protect your 11-inch iPad Pro (3rd Generation) from everyday wear and tear. The folio covers both the front and back of your iPad, shielding it from scratches, scuffs, and minor bumps. The soft microfiber lining on the inside of the front cover helps to keep your screen clean and prevent scratches. The magnetic attachment ensures that the folio stays securely in place, providing constant protection. However, it's important to note that the Smart Folio offers limited protection against more significant impacts. It's not designed to withstand drops from substantial heights or protect against heavy objects falling on your iPad. If you're someone who frequently uses your iPad in demanding environments or is prone to dropping your devices, you might want to consider a more rugged case that offers greater protection. For everyday use, such as commuting, working at a coffee shop, or using your iPad at home, the Smart Folio provides adequate protection against scratches and minor bumps. It's a good option for those who prioritize a slim and lightweight design over maximum protection. Additionally, the raised edges around the camera cutout offer some protection for the camera lens, preventing it from scratching when you place your iPad on a surface. Overall, the Smart Folio provides a decent level of protection for everyday use, but it's essential to be aware of its limitations and consider your specific needs before making a purchase.

Functionality and Features

The Apple Smart Folio isn't just about protection; it's also packed with features that enhance the functionality of your 11-inch iPad Pro (3rd Generation). One of the most convenient features is the automatic wake/sleep function. When you open the Smart Folio, your iPad automatically wakes up, and when you close it, your iPad goes to sleep. This saves you the hassle of having to manually turn your iPad on and off, and it also helps to conserve battery life. The folio also doubles as a stand, allowing you to prop up your iPad in various viewing angles. This is perfect for watching videos, typing, or video conferencing. The stand is stable and secure, so you won't have to worry about your iPad toppling over. The magnetic attachment makes it easy to attach and detach the Smart Folio. You can quickly remove it when you want to use your iPad without a cover, and just as easily reattach it when you need protection. The slim and lightweight design of the Smart Folio means that it adds minimal bulk to your iPad, preserving its portability. You can easily slip your iPad into a bag or backpack without having to worry about it taking up too much space. The Smart Folio also allows you to charge your Apple Pencil (2nd generation) without removing the cover. The magnetic connector on the side of the iPad remains accessible, so you can easily attach and charge your Pencil while keeping your iPad protected. Overall, the Smart Folio is a well-designed accessory that adds a lot of functionality to your iPad Pro. The automatic wake/sleep function, stand capability, and slim design make it a valuable addition for anyone who wants to get the most out of their iPad.

Pros and Cons

Alright, let’s break down the pros and cons of the Apple Smart Folio for the 11-inch iPad Pro (3rd Generation). This will help you get a clear picture of whether it’s the right choice for you.

Pros:

  • Slim and Lightweight Design: The Smart Folio adds minimal bulk to your iPad, preserving its sleek and portable design.
  • Automatic Wake/Sleep Function: This feature is super convenient and helps to conserve battery life.
  • Stand Functionality: The folio doubles as a stable stand for various viewing angles.
  • Magnetic Attachment: Easy to attach and detach, providing a secure fit.
  • Decent Scratch Protection: Protects your iPad from everyday scratches and scuffs.
  • Easy to Clean: The polyurethane material is easy to wipe clean.
  • Apple Pencil Charging: You can charge your Apple Pencil without removing the cover.

Cons:

  • Limited Impact Protection: Doesn't offer much protection against drops or heavy impacts.
  • Polyurethane Material: Can be prone to scratches and scuffs over time.
  • Price: It's relatively expensive compared to some third-party cases.
  • Not ideal for rugged use: If you need heavy-duty protection, this isn't the case for you.

In summary, the Apple Smart Folio is a great option for those who prioritize a slim design, convenient features, and basic protection. However, if you need more robust protection, you might want to consider a different case.

Alternatives to the Apple Smart Folio

If the Apple Smart Folio doesn't quite meet your needs, don't worry! There are plenty of alternatives available for the 11-inch iPad Pro (3rd Generation). Here are a few options to consider:

  • Logitech Folio Touch: This keyboard case offers both protection and enhanced productivity with its integrated keyboard and trackpad.
  • OtterBox Defender Series: For maximum protection, the OtterBox Defender Series provides rugged protection against drops, bumps, and scratches.
  • ZtotopCases: Offers a balance of protection and affordability with a variety of styles and features.
  • ESR Cases: Known for their slim and stylish designs, ESR cases offer decent protection without adding too much bulk.
  • Speck Cases: Speck cases are another solid choice. They are known for combining stylish designs with reliable protection. Many of their cases feature impact-resistant materials and antimicrobial coatings. They also offer a variety of styles, including folios and snap-on cases, to suit different preferences.

When choosing an alternative, consider your specific needs and priorities. Do you need maximum protection, enhanced productivity, or a more affordable option? Weigh the pros and cons of each case to find the one that's right for you.

Final Verdict

So, what's the final verdict on the Apple Smart Folio for the 11-inch iPad Pro (3rd Generation)? Overall, it's a well-designed accessory that offers a good balance of protection, functionality, and style. The slim and lightweight design is a major plus, and the automatic wake/sleep function and stand capability are incredibly convenient. However, it's important to be aware of its limitations in terms of impact protection. If you're looking for a case that can withstand drops and heavy use, you might want to consider a more rugged option. For everyday use, the Smart Folio provides adequate protection against scratches and minor bumps. It's a great choice for those who value a slim design and seamless integration with their iPad. Ultimately, whether or not the Smart Folio is right for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize style, convenience, and basic protection, it's definitely worth considering. But if you need more robust protection, you might want to explore some of the alternatives mentioned above. Hope this helps you make a more informed decision!