Nomad, a third-party accessory maker, continues to offer leather cases for Apple devices despite Apple’s decision to eliminate leather from its product lineup. Their latest offerings, the Leather Folio and Leather Folio Plus, are designed for the iPad Air and iPad Pro and feature a leather finish that resembles Apple’s Smart Folio cases.
These Leather Folio cases attach to the back of the iPad using magnets, providing a sleek and slim profile compared to other iPad cases. Similar to Apple’s cases, they have the ability to automatically wake and sleep the iPad when opened and closed. Additionally, the front cover can be folded back to function as a stand in landscape orientation. The interior of the case is lined with microfiber to protect the screen from scratches.
The Leather Folio Plus model, priced at $10 more than the standard Leather Folio, includes a magnetic flap that securely holds the Apple Pencil in place.
The leather used on the outside of the case is smooth to the touch, lacking any pebbling or texture. Customers can choose between black or brown colors, and the cases are available in sizes that fit the iPad Air and 11-inch and 12.9-inch iPad Pro models.
While the Nomad cases offer a leather finish, they are relatively basic in terms of functionality. Aside from the Apple Pencil flap, they do not provide additional features such as the ability to fold the cover to support the iPad in portrait orientation or enhanced protection against drops and spills. Furthermore, the cases do not offer much in terms of extra grip. As a result, alternative cases with more features can often be found on Amazon at lower prices.
However, the Nomad leather folios do have some notable strengths. The magnets used to attach the case to the iPad are strong and reliable. The soft microfiber lining provides a comfortable experience. Additionally, the cases are easy to put on and take off the iPad when not in use.
One potential drawback of the Nomad cases is their price. The basic Leather Folio is priced at $120 for the 11-inch size and $140 for the 12.9-inch version. The Leather Folio Plus, which only adds the Apple Pencil flap, can reach up to $150.
Given the high cost of these cases, many potential buyers may find it difficult to justify such an expense, even if they desire a leather case. Cheaper alternatives are readily available on the market. For example, Torro offers a leather case with the same set of features for as little as $70. Pitaka provides an imitation leather case at a lower price point while still offering various stand options and maintaining comparable thickness and weight to the Nomad case.
In conclusion, Nomad’s Leather Folio and Leather Folio Plus cases for the iPad Air and iPad Pro provide a leather finish, strong magnets, and a soft microfiber lining. However, they lack additional features and offer limited protection compared to other cases available on the market. Furthermore, their high price point may deter potential buyers from investing in these cases when more affordable alternatives with similar features are available.