These days, iPad cases are a dime a dozen. You've got folios that double as stands, shells that provide drop protection, and everything in between. It's tough to stand out in a sea of similar faces, but the Ergo Book from Acme Made is a real game changer. I've had a chance to test out this new case, which has currently passed its funding goal on Kickstarter, and I'm more than impressed.
![]()
Design and Functionality
Design and FunctionalityThe Ergo Book looks deceptively simple with its matte black, 17mm-thin folio design. A polycarbonate shell inside the case holds your iPad, providing back and corner protection. The front cover can fold into a stand like Apple's own Smart Cover, but with an elastic strap built-in for added grip. What really sets this case apart is its QuickSpin 360 rotation feature.
While encased in the Ergo Book, you have the option to rotate your iPad into landscape orientation, while still holding the case in its original orientation. That feature, paired with the surprisingly helpful handgrip, make using your iPad much more enjoyable when you aren't fumbling around with the cover of a folio case. In addition to handheld use, you can also rotate your iPad into portait orientation while using the case as a stand. No longer are you limited to landscape viewing with a Smart Cover-style case!
Pros
Acme Made has done so much right with this case. The invisible rotation mechanism just works so well. I don't know why we haven't seen anything like this before, or at least executed this well. Everything is so intuitive with the Ergo Book that I can't imagine using another case without these features.
Cons
Even though you can get your own Ergo Book for a $45 or $50 pledge on Kickstarter (iPad mini or iPad Air, respectively), the MSRP for both will be $70 or more. When closed, the Ergo Book will keep your iPad protected, but not completely. Suffering damage with a $70 case would definitely upset me.
The Verdict
The Ergo Book is the first case that actually enriches how I use my iPad instead of just complementing it. For the special Kickstarter price, I definitely recommend it.
