Features of a Great iPad 8th Generation Case
Updated: September 15, 2023
Released in September 2020, the 8th generation iPad remains an impressive piece of hardware, having proved itself something of a leap forward for Apple’s pioneering tablet range. It’s a quality product, and for that reason alone, it deserves a quality case that fuses protection with functionality and style.
Slender but durable and with a significantly extended battery life, the 8th generation iPad was designed to give customers the freedom to use it on the go — all day long. Therefore, sourcing a compatible case for one of the first tablet devices designed not just to be taken anywhere, anytime — but taken anywhere all the time — becomes an even more important consideration.
This was the second iPad to feature the larger 10.2-inch retina display and also incorporated the A12 Bionic chip. This comfortably delivered the big leap to 40% CPU performance that Apple had boasted — alongside double the GPU capability. Together, this provides a noticeably more powerful experience compared to the previous 7th generation.
Launched in the middle of a global pandemic, with little of the usual fanfare, the 8th generation iPad really did appear to make good on the promise of Greg Joswiak, Apple’s senior vice president of Worldwide Marketing. This was to deliver “incredible value at a time when, more than ever, our customers need powerful and versatile ways to work, play, learn, and connect with loved ones.”
To that end, it also incorporated the new Apple Neural Engine, an NPU (neural processing unit), a custom chip. This was engineered specifically to speed up tasks involving artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), assisting in the reduction of power consumption by taking the strain from the GPU. To create some context, with the strength of a Neural Engine, intense ML tasks can be completed up to 10,000 times faster than the GPU. Amongst many other things, the Neural Engine is what recognizes when you unlock your device using Face ID, and the 8th generation iPad employs it most effectively to enhance performance.
The iPad 8th generation is also compatible with some more recent and increasingly popular accessories, such as the smart keyboard and Apple Pencil (1st generation). In fact, Apple's electronic stylus, the first generation of which can be used with 6th, 7th, 8th, and 9th generation iPads, has helped transform the tablet experience, allowing a new wave of enthusiastic adopters to use the iPad as a portable electronic sketchbook and notebook. With this in mind, the ideal case for your 8th Gen iPad may also require a convenient pocket for safely stowing an Apple Pencil.
Making the Case for Quality Cases
If you’re reading this article, you likely already understand the importance of purchasing the right case. That means you don’t need an explanation of why cases are a good idea — you just need help to find the right one for you.
Maybe you’ve never shopped for an iPad 10.2 case before, and you need some tips to find a good case. Or, maybe you’ve chosen some duds in the past and want to know how to choose a durable case that doesn’t break the bank.
Either way, keep reading for a few things to look out for in an iPad case and why we highly recommend the ZUGU Case 8th generation iPad case for your device.
Size
The 8th generation iPad comes in at 10.2 inches, and the perfect case will fit your device just right. Although it may be tempting to ignore a loose fit, you’ll likely end up regretting this in the long run. If a case is loose enough that your iPad can slip out of it easily, there’s a good chance you’ll repeatedly find yourself trying to catch your bare iPad before it hits the ground.
On the other hand, if your case is too tight, it may lead to another host of issues. Tight cases can dent and/or bend the body of your device and even lead to screen warping. And, if your iPad gets stuck in a case that’s too tight, you may end up damaging the device yourself in an attempt to remove the case.
The safest bet? Stick to a case that is not only made for your exact iPad model but also has its dimensions clearly listed for reference.
Material
The material that your case is made from is one of its most important characteristics. Most iPad users don’t want to have to constantly replace cases that damage easily or fall apart quickly. Your case is an investment and one you’re likely to want to keep around for a while.
You should opt for a case made from TPU, thermoplastic polyurethane, and/or PC, polycarbonate. These materials are hard plastics used to create anything from safety helmets to power tools.
Cheaper materials, like silicone, don’t offer much protection and can degrade quickly, especially if you live in a warmer climate. Cases made from cloth materials offer protection from scratches but won’t do you much good in the event of a fall.
Adjustability
A case with adjustable parts provides a greater range of functionality. For example, if your case has a stand that adjusts, you’ll be able to prop your iPad up in a variety of ways — not just one or two. This is especially useful if you’re watching a movie or following a recipe and need to keep your device use hands-free.
Keep an eye out for a case that has at least five adjustable positions available. Any less than this, and you may find yourself having to get creative to find the angle you want. Although propping your iPad on a makeshift stand may work once or twice, it definitely will not be practical in the long run.
Magnetics
Magnetized cases are attractive for several reasons. There are a few ways that a case can be magnetized, but the most common areas for magnetization are the back and cover of the case. Cases that have magnetized backs are amazing for mounting on metal surfaces, like a refrigerator door or classroom magnet wall. This is another great way to stay hands-free while you use your device and it also works well in spaces where propping your iPad Pro 11 Case isn’t possible.
Some cases also have magnets in the covers that prevent them from accidentally opening. Your cover is meant to protect your screen — it will not offer much protection if it doesn’t stay in place. The best iPad 8th generation cases will have a feature that keeps your cover closed and your screen safe from damage.
Overheating Protection
One of the downsides of using a case is the possibility of your device overheating. Cases often insulate the heat generated from the device and can cause the internal mechanisms to overheat and malfunction. Fixing issues that stem from heat damage is often very costly. The best way to avoid this is to only use cases that have airflow vents. These allow heat to escape from inside the case.
Plastics aren't breathable — so without vents, you may have to invest in a new case sooner than you’d like!
ZUGU Case — The Best iPad 8th Generation Case
You’ll find plenty of iPad cases on the market. A quick Google search will likely return hundreds of thousands of cases in different patterns, materials, colors, and shapes. However, ZUGU Case’s iPad cases are some of the finest quality cases you’ll find anywhere — on the internet or otherwise.
These cases are built from high-grade TCU and PC for ultimate durability. ZUGU offers these cases in several colors and model sizes, from the iPad Mini to the iPad Pro. If you have an 8th generation iPad, you can’t go wrong with a ZUGU case to match. Airflow vents, a soft microfiber interior, an adjustable magnetic stand and cover, and an Apple Pencil pocket are just a few of the amazing inclusions you’ll get with these cases.