Pad & Quill's offerings for device protection stand out from the rest of the competition for their attention to detail in the little things. Pad & Quill's products have a unique feel to them, both figuratively and literally. We go hands-on after the break.
Design
![]()
The Little Pocket Book for iPhone 5/5s ($69.99) is a simulated leather and wood wallet-style case that protects your phone, while offering three slots for credit cards or anything else that size, and a slot for paper bills.
The Contega Linen for iPad mini/Retina ($89.99) features a similar design to the Little Black Book; the device is on the right side, while the left side features a notch to display your iPad mini in landscape mode.
Each case features an elastic band to hold itself shut, while all ports, speakers, cameras, and buttons are left uncovered.
Functionality
Little Pocket Book
Typically, I stray from wallet-style cases to avoid losing all my valuables if a thief ever gets lucky and runs off with my stuff, but I took a chance by taking the Little Pocket Book into the real world, and it didn't disappoint. Using it is no different than using a normal wallet, although I had to make sure not to put it into my back pocket even though I'm sure sitting on the case wouldn't harm your phone in any way.
The case's limited room, which some might view as a downside, was actually nice to me, as it reduced the amount of needless cards I carried with me. Apart from my iPhone, the case held my driver's license, debit card, and credit card without a hitch.
Using the phone while in the case is just as simple as ever if you fold the cover back, but one handed use might be a bit awkward with the case on.
Contega Linen
There's something satisfying about pulling out your Contega-clad iPad mini for use. Maybe it's because it feels like pulling out a book you enjoy. Once you fold back that cover, you know what's next.
Despite the Contega offering full protection for your iPad mini, it's remarkably light. Using my iPad mini with the Contega's cover folded back wasn't at all cumbersome, unlike other thinner, floppy folio cases. In both portrait and landscape orientation, use with the Contega isn't at all hindered.
When using the case as a stand (with only one display angle), the case does its job. For my own taste, a slightly steeper display angle would have been appreciated, as it's obvious that the angle is intended for minimal input from the user (e.g. watching a movie, reading, etc.)
Pros:
Little Pocket Book
- Great looks
- Offers full protection
- Minimal, yet effective
Contega Linen
- Great looks
- Lightweight
- Offers full protection
Cons:
Little Pocket Book
- None
Contega Linen
- Display angle isn't as functional as it could be
Verdict
Pad & Quill's Little Pocket Book for iPhone 5/5s and Contega for iPad mini/Retina are great cases if you're looking for something a little different than what your local Target or Best Buy have to offer. Both provide solid protection with great looks and are definitely worth checking out.