Hey thanks! The keyboard is a tofu65, details here, the arm rest is from Amazon, the desk is to off Amazon but I got it a few years ago and can’t find it anymore.
And not sure about gaming pad? if you talking about the black thingy on top left, that’s a phone.
I just bought this from Amazon. It’ll be here Monday so I can let you know initial thoughts. My mini is supposedly 2 day shipping out on the 24th so won’t know how well it’ll fit until it arrives
Go with ESR Cases, specially the one where you can detach the Front portion ( attached magnetically). You can select between frost/ clear view options. 1. https://www.amazon.com/ESR-Compatible-Detachable-Magnetic-Supports/dp/B09GVTTKKH/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?crid=1V6PLQVRW6WZJ&keywords=esr%2Bipad%2Bmini%2B6%2Bcase&qid=1671166667&sprefix=Esr%2Bipad%2Bmini%2Caps%2C337&sr=8-2-spons&smid=A3...
Thanks. The Shorts UI is not very intuitive, which is why I asked for the link here, but I figured it out. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BN5VBNJW/ref=cm\_sw\_r\_as\_gl\_api\_gl\_i\_M6HWKMCT9ZZK2D08BSDT?\_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&linkCode=ml1&tag=verylast0d-20
It is this one on Amazon. Lower price was not the ultimate factor for me, but is a nice bonus. The stand functions okay. It is not the Zugu. The Zugu is very sturdy and I like that the magnets help hold it. Also multiple positions on the Zugu. This one you get 2 positions that you can see in the pictures. I use mine for traveling for work and I will watch a movie. I think it will work okay on the plane to watch a movie or in the lower position to draw.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B099RX2L35?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Ah darn! I ended up going with a very similar smart folio, but purely magnetic
There are magnetic screen protectors like this one https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09JZB56FZ/ref=ewc_pr_img_1?smid=A3B0YH72AZETAU&th=1
These let you just magnetically put the screen protector on and off whenever you want, and I've read that many people use a glass screen protector underneath and just put the Bellemond on when they want to draw or write
I think you could get away with this size:
https://www.amazon.com/INIU-Charging-25000mAh-Ultimate-Compatible/dp/B08VDJP7WN
Make sure to click the coupon for $20 off. It’s not as cost-efficient as buying 2 of the smaller ones ( 2x20,000mAh= 40,000mAh), but it would probably get the job done, and you’d only have to carry one unit with you.
I just checked, and this may actually be a little less power than you want. I don't know how many charges you'll need out by the pool, but I think you'll be recharging this unit very often. Your pro max and mini will eat up the power bank quickly.
I'd recommend you either get 2 of the one I first sent, OR get this one:
So about 4x2x1 (inches) or so?
I own and love this INUI model. It would charge your iPad mini and iPhone a couple of times each before it needed a recharge:
They make a smaller version of the same product (also on amazon), but this one is the best deal in terms of size/battery life/price. I love mine and it has served me well for years.
*Note that, although it has multiple OUTPUTS, it can only be INPUT charged with a USB-C input (same as your iPad mini charger - so you could use that to top it off when needed).
ESR Hybrid i am also using, handy case - add a bit weight to the Mini6 structure but option to take off the top folder part is indeed good option.
Additionally i am using below ESR magnetic one with Apple Pencil/ Logitech Crayon holding support. If you are considering the Apple case - i would rather suggest that you opt for ESR magnetic .
I have this one: https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B099RVXCDG/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I think it looks nice and protects the iPad Mini very well, but if I could do it again, I would instead get the Apple Smart Folio for my use case. The Mini seems a lot heavier with the case on so it would be nice if I could snap the case off easier to appreciate the size and weight whilst I'm holding it, and put it back in the case when I'm not. I also have never dropped it and usually use it around carpet so there's not much need for protection.
Whichever one you choose, I would say it should be one that comes off easily.
I have both the ESR Hybrid and this Fintie case.
I used the ESR case for about a month and have been using the Fintie case ever since. (For context, I got the Mini 6 on launch day.)
I like the ESR in theory, but in practice it's not all it's cracked up to be. When you put the cover on you sometimes have to finagle it a bit to get the magnets on the back to line up properly. If they don't, the cover won't turn the screen on/off when closed/opened. The case itself is a bit heavier than I was expecting, and it's heavier still with the cover on. The right side (where the Pencil goes) pulls away from the iPad pretty easily, so dirt/lint etc gets trapped between the case and the iPad that way. (That's the trade-off for not leaving that part open/unprotected, I guess.) It's also a bitch getting the damn thing on and off. I actually was concerned I was going to bent/break the damn thing trying to get it off -- which is part of why it's stayed off. It's definitely not a case you swap out with other cases.
The Fintie case does leave the right side unprotected to allow for the Pencil, but so far I've not had any issues with scratches or scuffs, and I carry it around with me pretty often.
I went even cheaper and got the cheapest I could find
https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B0B1J2MK11/
USB-c charge, does stick magnetically to the side. Let's say the biggest drawback is the black color as it sometimes gets lost in my messy table when I have my lights dimmed. I've used it less than once a month so far, I don't carry it around with my mini.
The regular silicone gets my vote. I prefer matte or flat finish to minimize fingerprints. This is what I use.
iPad Mini 6th Generation Case,... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09X5V9N4Z?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
I actually use this keyboard case instead -- because it's almost identical to the Apple smart folio except with a similarly-slimline keyboard inside the cover. It's a bit more cramped than the Mipow folding keyboard, but because I always want my iPad to have a cover, it means there's no extras to carry around.
I still prefer the Microsoft Folding Keyboard from many years back. https://www.amazon.com/Microsoft-Universal-Foldable-Keyboard-Android/dp/B00ZR7POQQ
I bought a little USBC to MicroUSB adapter for the once a month charging.
If you expect to use your keyboard at a desk or table, I'd recommend considering the Mipow MPC-003. It really is thin, but has laptop-sized keys and is about the same area as the K380. The keyboard feel is quite similar, too (I have both the M-003 and a K380).
Drawback: it's hinged in the middle and doesn't lock into place -- you can't use it perched on your knee.
Strong rec; this keyboard works really well for me. It's much lighter than the Artek and Greenlaw keyboard cases and to a first approximation resembles a very slightly fatter version of the Apple magic cover -- the front cover is about 1mm thicker to accommodate the keyboard.
Disadvantages: it's so thin it needs a special magnetic attachment to charge (USB-A cable supplied), and it uses a Microsoft Surface style kickstand to prop it up for typing -- not as bad as a trifold keyboard, but not ideal for use on your knees. On the other hand, you can lay it flat and still type on it on your lap.
That’s a stellar price. Which one do you recommend this or the spigen one? I’m tempted by Smart folio and its price but Spigen makes more sense for protection, I guess.
https://www.amazon.com/Spigen-Liquid-Folio-Designed-Generation/dp/B09F51TYK8
Yes you should. The Mini 6 is fantastic for content consumption and is also very portable. Also it is on sale at Amazon right now
If you don't mind it "like new" used, you can get one here for £573.21. You can also claim 10% off using Amazon's current promotion for their warehouse deals to make it £515.89!
I love mine for the simple fact that 100% when i'm in my bed i'm using my mini in this position. Have the mount and sometimes when I'm lousy mounting it, it falls in my face... Lemme tell you something i'd rather get hit in the face with the mini then a 400-700 g ipad pro.
for my mini I just got the Microsoft Universal Foldable Keyboard: https://www.amazon.com/Microsoft-Universal-Foldable-Keyboard-Android/dp/B00ZR7POQQ/
It's really flat, lightweight, and easy to take with you. Then just a basic book style case that can prop up the iPad.
I saw u/dyne-nine 's post about a new keyboard style that he found on Alibaba so I was looking around for some new releases on Amazon and I found this. We'll see how good it is...
I would not want to do spreadsheet or document work on an iPad Mini, unless it's a super small sheet. A keyboard and mouse could improve productivity, and they sell some cases with a keyboard and touchpad if you want an all in one solution, but I would think a laptop or even just a bigger screen iPad would be better for this (I would always opt for a laptop for MS Office tasks though).
I recommend matte glass. Feels like silk under touch and adds just a tad bit of friction (still more slippery and not paper like at all). Cuts glare as well. I have it literally on anything I can put a protector on. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09K714XQ2/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I believe this is the one referred to. The big difference between it and the original Apple one is that it has an unobtrusive pencil retainer, along with being much cheaper. It’s the US Amazon link
Pacsafe LS100 is the perfect bag for an iPad Mini, with a padded tablet compartment of the correct size, main compartment for stuff like cables and charger, and organizer compartment for pen and papers. It's expensive but designed to be theft-resistant, with steel cable-reinforced strap and locks to secure the zipper.
Manufacturer: https://pacsafe.com/products/metrosafe-ls100-anti-theft-crossbody-bag
(Cheaper on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Pacsafe-Metrosafe-LS100-Liter-Shoulder/dp/B017BPMM1Q )
Smallest case option you have might be Apple's Smart Folio case. Yes it opens like a book, but it barely adds to the volume of the ipad since it doesn't have any padding on its sides. Even if you can find a vertically opening case, most other 3rd party case will add to iPad's width which might not fit your need.
If you don't want to spend $50+ on the Apple's Smart Folio case, get one of the newer copies - like this https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09CT949CC/ You can't go wrong with $12 or so. I guess someone can make this open vertically but I'm assuming target audience is pretty small for that.
I like so far. You can adjust the responsiveness in the settings and there’s different gestures you can use. This is the one that I got from Amazon: Magic Keyboard For IPad Mini 6
Love it 🥰 that’s the best. Do you ever do screen mirror to a large tv screen? I often do that on our main tv in the living room with comfy L-shaped lounge couch. I also have a usb-c to hdmi cable to be able to use my gaming pc monitor in my home office.
https://www.amazon.com/Afterplug-Adapter-Delivery-Charging-ChromeBook/dp/B092Z6PT3K/ in case you’d like one too. I love mine, it can charge the iPad mini too if needed.
Use a skin. Or get a folio that includes side protection from somewhere else. My daughter has this one: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09BF8BVRH/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
If you have a smart TV, the iPad mini should be able “screen mirror” directly to your tv.
If not, then all you need is a usb-c to hdmi cable or adapter to be able to enjoy the bigger screen (of a tv or pc monitor) while using your iPad mini. I play Genshin Impact on my iPad mini but I always screen mirror to the big tv screen, or use a usb-c to hdmi cable to my pc monitor for a better gaming experience.
https://www.amazon.com/Afterplug-Adapter-Delivery-Charging-ChromeBook/dp/B092Z6PT3K/ - this will let you connect your iPad mini to a tv screen or a pc monitor and be able to charge it simultaneously.
I bought one on Saturday... it's perfect for my mini when I'm using it in the car. I got the blue one... this is the one I bought for using in the house and it works for my iPhone, my mini and my 12.9 iPad Pro. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08X691886/ref=crt_ewc_title_dp_2?ie=UTF8&smid=A3KBSHPQA08UT5&th=1
I know you want the 256gb version but the 64gb is 409 on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/2021-Apple-iPad-Mini-Wi-Fi/dp/B09G91LXFP/ref=sr_1_3?crid=1NJ0C473AGQUH&keywords=iPad%2Bmini%2B6&qid=1656746367&sprefix=ipad%2Bmini%2B6%2Caps%2C72&sr=8-3&th=1.
I got my 256gb for $480 as a good used condition there too and it looks flawless so keep an eye out on Amazon.
I use this one which I think is what you’re describing? The back magnetically connects so it doesn’t flap about when I’m reading, scrolling through social media, drawing, etc. It does come in different colours if pink isn’t your thing.
It's not an integrated keyboard-case but the Logi keys-to-go keyboard is laptop-sized and the space bar meets your requirement. It's also splashproof and very thin, and goes well with a standard Apple smart cover for the iPad mini 6.
(My preferences lie elsewhere and I use this keyboard case instead.)
Zugu! You may consider $50 a small fortune but I’ve owned a lot of iPads and this is the best case I’ve ever bought. I’ve also found the $15 cases from Amazon usually only last about a year. I expect my iPad mini 6 to last about 5 years and the case to last just as long.
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B09GTB38SF/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1
My bad. This is the case that she bought with a slot for her ESR pencil. I thought the case was ESR as well
I am extremely impressed with this case and stand from MOFT:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09VTGMBVX?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_VAR26413SPDPVDE8JC58
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09MSHBSP8?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_XBYNE2J5CDVXXH4VHZAX
I have this origami-style case from Amazon / DTTO which has a portrait orientation:
https://www.amazon.com/DTTO-Case-Pencil-Holder-Multi/dp/B09B4Z58PC
The magnets make it a little heavier than similar-sized cases, but it’s well put together and it works in either orientation so long as it’s on a stable surface.
I have a K380, and I love it. It's great to type on, despite looking kinda iffy, and this is from a guy who usually loves his Cherry (and clones).
I also got a small folding aluminium stand from eBay. It's really amazing for propping my iPad up for writing. I can't find the exact one I have, but it's similar to this.
https://www.amazon.com/Foldable-OMOTON-Adjustable-Aluminum-Compatible/dp/B08LDNFFSX/
If you truly want a real and great quality car mount, either of these 2 would be much better:
https://www.amazon.com/Car-Tablet-Holder-Headrest-Mount/dp/B089K5NSYF
https://www.amazon.com/Gooseneck-Tablet-Mount-Holder-Bed/dp/B07Y84SCR6
I want to attach it to my mini because I want to be able to attach it to a ESR Car mount. I understand it won’t charge the mini, I just want it to be able to hold it in place.
I was looking for this as well, but after searching for a while I came up with another solution.
I bought one of those magsafe rings, put it on the back of an iPad mini case (which of course wouldn't be a folio case). Alongside I bought this: https://www.amazon.com/OtterBox-Mobile-MagSafe-Wireless-Controllers/dp/B09D8S4VN5/ref=sr_1_3?crid=3P8FEP8OS31O8&keywords=magsafe+xbox+controller+mount&qid=1652882823&sprefix=MagSafe+Xbox+%2Caps%2C251&sr=8-3
I'm using it quite often and it works like a charm. Some people might find it heavy to hold, but I like that it has a little weight to it.
I prefer a non folio because I have a metal adjustable stand which I got on amazon for very cheap thats really really solid and well made. I tried the apple smart folio and did not find it useful. Heres the link for the stand I have. (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08VDF8PZB/ref=ppx\_yo\_dt\_b\_asin\_title\_o03\_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1)
I like the device being as slim/flat/close to the desk as possible. I found that the folio case does not stay fully put when trying to write while the heavier metal stand is super solid and adjustable almost 180 degrees and I like how it puts the tablet higher than the folio case. This device is used solely for work and post graduate studies (mainly PDF/PPT annotating) so it lies flat 99% of the time (using apple pen).
I am looking for a case that wont look out of place in a suit/tie type office, so Im willing to budget ideally less than 75 but up to 100 for a nice slim leather solution that wont look to casual in professional/clinical type settings.
If it werent slippery, Id use the iPad naked for sure. Got applecare+ so willing to risk damage because I love how sleek the mini is.
ESR Hybrid Clear Case Compatible with iPad Mini 6 (8.3 inch, 2021), Slim and Light, Yellowing Resistant, Hard Back, Soft Frame, Fully Supports Pencil 2, Classic Series, Clear https://www.amazon.com/dp/B099RZ72N5/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_29NG98NKZH8Q4CFZKXHX
This one looks like it would work.
May I ask why you prefer a non folio?
I steel haven’t received my mini, but I bought the Rebound Hybrid Case from ESR. I’ve already gotten some screen protectors from them and they’re really good, so I thought I might as well buy a case. I like the hybrid case a lot because as much as I love the official Apple folio, I just wouldn’t feel comfortable knowing that the sides are exposed. The ESR one has a case, and the trifold part is detachable! So it has the same functionality as the folio while also protecting the iPad, and you can remove the cover if you don’t want to use it at the moment or you can use it as a stand for your phone. I’ll leave the link for you to check it out. Unfortunately I haven’t seen more than two videos speaking about it, but seems promising. Hope this helps!
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09GVVFJWH?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_SX1RY3K9PPQ6Q303SZMG
For reference the case that I’m using is this one in case someone found a solution where you can pair magnetically.
ESR Hybrid Case Compatible with iPad Mini 6 (8.3 inch, 2021), Detachable Magnetic Case for iPad Mini 6 2021, Hard PC Back Cover, Auto Sleep/Wake, Supports Pencil 2, Rebound Series, Clear Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09GVTTKKH/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_HMFSGWHCSCB45SHM0GBF?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Oooh ya that is nice and slim, probably decently light too. this one is the stand you’re looking at? I like how this looks but I dunno if it adds too much weight for my liking to carry around. 8.2oz to the iPad’s 10.3 oz
Have you seen this one (SOUYOYIHI)? It seems to be similar to the Typecase/LENRICH, but it’s more expensive...and the keyboard does look to be a little different from the other 2. I didn’t notice it in my first few rounds of researching; I made a spreadsheet comparing them, and this brand wasn’t on it. It claims to have 63 keys (Typecase/LENRICH have 59) and 7 colors (Typecase claims 10 colors):
SOUYOYIHI Magnetic 360 Rotating iPad Mini 6th Generation Keyboard Case Touchpad 7 Colors Backlit Keyboard Rotatable Slim Folio iPad Mini 6 Keyboard Cover (Black) by YEEHi US Store: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09YV9GD2D/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_BMM9S3ZGANQEC0H7AP2P
I can’t verify the 10 color thing because I didn’t order the Typecase version, but Snugg also claims that their very similar version to Typecase/LENRICH has 10 backlit colors (it does not say how many keys it has):
Snugg iPad Mini 6 Case with Keyboard (2021-6th Gen): https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09PKT8K7C/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_YQQY0TXDBT8FNY79MZXT?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
TL;DR -
If Typecase has 10 backlit colors, then there is a legitimate physical difference between the Typecase and LENRICH keyboards. The Typecase and Snugg may be identical with 10, but I can’t verify that.
SOUYOYIHI appears to be more than just another carbon copy of Typecase/LENRICH.
Thoughts?
Have you thought of this satechi iPad dock?
It uses a simple usb c to connect as you've mentioned.
https://www.amazon.ca/Satechi-Aluminum-Stand-Hub-Compatible/dp/B095F4FZZY/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2AXD9TX98I7ZX&keywords=Satechi iPad dock&qid=1651441822&sprefix=satechi ipad dock%2Caps%2C140&sr=8-1
One of these? if so, do the prongs fold in? I can’t tell from their images and I was looking for a slim power brick
Spigen Ultra Hybrid Pro Spigen Ultra Hybrid Pro and tomtocCompactEDCSlingBag served me very well at a week in Disney World.
I just switched to a non-folio and I really love this option. Not a huge surprise though, because I've bought this case for every ipad I've ever owned (three total, mini, 11in, 12.9in). I've tried others, but always come back to this one and they are all still holding strong after a few years-
I recently got a hybrid folio case. The cover is attached with magnets, so you can easily take it off whenever. It is really well built too. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09GVTTKKH?ref=ppx\_yo2ov\_dt\_b\_product\_details&th=1
HyperDrive USB C Hub with iPad Media Player Shortcut Buttons, includes HDMI 4K60Hz, USB-C 5Gbps, USB-A 5Gbps, MicroSD/SD Card Reader, 3.5mm Headphone Jack , Endless Entertainment for iPad Pro Air Mini https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09KBT8FFW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_gl_i_520G09Y04K7PV28AN07V
This
The same Fintie composition book cover, love it
I personally can’t bring myself to buy a keyboard case for the mini unless I know it will be mechanically sound. Being 6’4” my hands would struggle typing even relatively fast on anything thats available right now, which leaves me tempted to purchase his new release… https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B00R0I71S4?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_XX0JK027CJKN7JZ7CT2Q
2nd vote for the zugu case. Highly priced but worth it and will be the last case you need. I like the kickstand style cases and here is a zugu alternative at a cheaper price.
Limited-time deal: ZtotopCases New iPad Mini 6 Case 2021, [5 Magnetic Stand Angles] Full Body Protective Cover with Pencil Holder and Auto Wake & Sleep Function for iPad Mini 6th Generation 8.3 Inch, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09FFBPY49/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_dl_FMVRPY8RV4AAPPBPNQ3M?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I think your best bet is going to be a separate stand; there are plenty of inexpensive/portable ones on Amazon.
I suppose you could attach a self-adhesive stand like this one, but it would have to be applied directly on the back of the cover, rather than on the folded-back flap, in order to give good support. (Also you don't want to ruin the case's functionality as a self-stand in landscape mode.) But that would mean that the flap has to be left hanging open when using the attached stand.
If you're only needing to use portrait orientation at home, in a stationary spot, you could try propping the mini up against a stack of books or a heavy object. I've stacked marble coasters behind mine sometimes to get a better landscape mode angle for Zoom meetings.
I have something like this: https://www.amazon.de/Vkooer-Generation-Schutzh%C3%BClle-Dokumentschlitze-Intelligente/dp/B09KLJRG24/ A sort of book fold cover with a fancy embossed design and nice elastic strap to keep it closed. And I like the book look.
I've moved away from trifolds because the part of the cover that covers and protects your screen, is the part that picks up all the dirt from surfaces.
And as for keyboards, when travelling I use a microsoft folding keyboard that's really thin, and at home my Keychron K2.
I have one of these: Fintie Slimshell Composition Book
It’s compact, protective, convenient and looks stealth.
I’ve had one of these on a few iPads in the past and frankly love them.
I'm using a moko purple folio case
.MoKo Case Fit New iPad Mini 6 2021 (6th Generation, 8.3-inch) - Hard Clear Back Shell Slim Lightweight Stand Cover with Translucent Frosted Back Protector, Auto Wake/Sleep, Grey Purple https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B09CDSC68N/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apan_i_831XATZ4R1B2Z0Q4194M
Bath Time - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09LVG1Z85/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_4DZYRDCQG4AA0TP4EKA3?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
And a useless apple smart folio I never use
So, I have this case on my Mini 6 currently and I don’t hate it, but I don’t love it either. I had a similar case from ESR on an older budget iPad and it was great. On the Mini, if I fold the cover back, the iPad leans just enough the it tries to rotate the screen when I don’t want it to. That didn’t happen on my older budget iPad with this style case. Also, I recently accidentally dropped the iPad while loading the kids in the SUV. It was closed when it fell, but completely opened up by the time it landed face down on the driveway. The plastic corners of the case where it attaches to the iPad saved the screen from contacting the concrete, but had there been a rock or similar it would have been a different story. In my opinion, the cover should not have opened up like that. There are also only two slots for standing the iPad up, and none seem to be ideal for me. I can generally get it to stay close to where I need it without it being in a slot, but it doesn’t work for me as intended.
On the plus side, the pencil holder has worked wonderfully for me, and the case looks and feels sharp. It is very low profile. This style case tends to be unique and I always get complements at meetings.
I’m evaluating other cases and leaning strongly towards the Torro magnetic case, but haven’t pulled the trigger yet.
I got this one and love it! ESR Magnetic Case Compatible with iPad Mini 6 (8.3 inch, 2021), Convenient Magnetic Attachment, Auto Sleep/Wake, Fully Supports Pencil 2, Slim and Silky Cover, Rebound Series, Navy Blue https://www.amazon.com/dp/B099RW7XTM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_XFW4TN58VYGG4TEB9J6D?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Sure.
ProCase iPad Mini 6 Case 8.3 Inch 2021 iPad Mini 6th Generation Case, Hard Back Cover Cases for 2021 iPad Mini 8.3" 6th Gen -Navy https://www.amazon.sg/dp/B09HQ4GRF6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_PA9WF71QVTWQBZMRXH4B?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
OP, your original question was about the folio case and I just want to say that it’s useful as a stand and does a great job of preventing scratches on the screen but it’s pretty useless as drop-protection. I have several cases including the folio and I don’t use it al all. You didn’t mention needing recommendations but this is currently my favorite because the flap is removable and it feels great in use: ESR Hybrid Case
I highly recommend this case, just like you, I didn’t want an Apple Pencil holder bulking up my case. No pencil holder and very minimalistic.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09J4M436B?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Yes it stays tight against the case when not in use. I got this one in purple and am in love! Admittedly price was intimidating but I'm glad I got over it lol.
I have no idea why 80% of cases have that stupid pencil slot. I never use the pencil and I chose the Mini because it is, well, mini. I don't want its form factor made artificially wider.
I have this case which I bought the week the Mini came out. I don't love it because the cover has a sharpish edge and I often lean the Mini on my arm in bed when reading. But it's cheap, it has no pencil slot, and since no one came out with a better one, I have kept it. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09B518PRM/
LENRICH iPad Mini 6 case Keyboard 2021 8.3 inch 6th Generation Trackpad Backlit 7 Color,Backlight Wireless Accessories 360 Smart Protective Cover touchpad https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01C7DK9GW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_A9F9E4C1MKFHGZ9JG2DE?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I LOVE this case iMieet New iPad Mini6 Case 8.3 Inch 2021(6th Gen) with Pencil Holder [Support iPad 2nd Pencil Charging/Pair],Trifold Stand Smart Case with Soft TPU Back,Auto Wake/Sleep(Wine) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09K3XHG9R/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_S23HRZF4SDRAN7PTBBF4?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I have this one that’s very protective but I’m sure the lining will get dirty. It’s secure though and has a Pencil loop which I prefer over having a wider case with a dedicated slot for it. I wanted something to secure the front because my bag has fountain pens that could become uncapped and other potentially sharp things that could possibly get under a floppy flap and scratch the screen (hasn’t happened, just paranoid)
I also use this one too but want to try one with a softer TPU material on the back if this one gets grungy. Nothing wrong with this one though, it does the job great and feels nice
Has anyone found an Amazon/third-party case with strong magnets (like Apple’s?). It’s a minor thing but I love how it holds the front cover flap to the back when it’s open, so it’s not just flopping around. I do like Apple’s case for when I’m home, but it is overpriced and the ones I linked above (or ANY of the ones similar to #2) protect more
I had a look into this myself when I bought my iPad Mini 6 and settled on a third party case. The Apple Folio looks nice but I’ve seen too many people saying how it doesn’t protect their device properly and they have scratches/chips! I ordered mine from Amazon, it’s been on for a month and I can’t fault it!
Mine: MoKo Case Fit New iPad Mini 6 2021 https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B09CGTRG8G/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_FVD20DMZ7FVBETKNDQQ5?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
My honest opinion: Apple Smart Folio = SUPER overpriced for what is essentially mediocre (at best) front and back protection only - NO sides or corner protections. You are essentially paying extra for the fancy-shmancy brand name, although some of the color options do look nice. I have already seen quite some posts on this subreddit where people who say they're usually very careful with their devices have dropped their iPad Mini while it was in the Smart Folio and they got damages to the sides/corners and/or any exposed buttons. I do not feel that is worth the $50+ usd ($79 cad) cost.
I prefer much more affordable 3rd party cases, of which there are MANY options that offer the "Folio" style, but with full coverage protection - front, back, all sides and all corners. Some of these even have fancier designs (not just plain solid colors). This is the one I chose: https://www.amazon.com/MoKo-Pencil-Holder-Generation-Transparent/dp/B09JC2714Y/ (except I got mine from Canada Amazon, b/c I live in Canada)
I felt like this for a while, seems too small. But I gave in and ordered this one https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01C7DK9GW/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_EDT7YNN8CV5V844KFJ7A?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1 to use the mini for scripts and the 12.9 for work. Should be here in an hour or so.
GreenLaw iPad Mini 6 2021 Case with Keyboard, Magnetic Detachable, Bluetooth Wireless, Silicone+ABS Case, Type-C Rechargeable Keyboard Case for 8.3 inch iPad Mini 6, Grey https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09PV79TJ1/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_AHNNTZKGM8Z16SR1JR8W?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B09JYSP8TC/ - I don't draw (yet) on my iPad Mini 6, but I do write occasional notes, but I bought this because is removable so it gives options if you want a matte (and slightly more grippy) surface for a bit more precision (but it does slightly reduce screen viewing quality as with most matte screen protectors). I am able to use this on top of a regular tempered glass screen protector, as well as with a magnetic folio case. Note: the matte surface being slightly bumpy textured may or may not wear the apple pencil tip faster, but just something you might want to take into consideration (though you can get 3rd-party replacement Apple Pencil tips for less than what Apple sells the official replacement tips at).
Not sure if you can find that on your Amazon (if you are outside of Canada)
I ordered this new one and will give it a try. I don't need a trackpad or backlighting. I like the magnetically detachable keyboard since I'll only occasionally need to use a keyboard. Rest of the time it looks like a light case back for tablet use:
https://www.amazon.com/LENRICH-Generation-Backlight-Accessories-Protective/dp/B01C7DK9GW/ ??? This one looks nice
What about this one? Was posted to this thread yesterday but removed by op
Thanks! Here’s where I got it Limited-time deal: iMieet New iPad Mini6 Case 8.3 Inch 2021(6th Gen) with Pencil Holder [Support iPad 2nd Pencil Charging/Pair],Trifold Stand Smart Case with Soft TPU Back,Auto Wake/Sleep(Wine) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09K3XHG9R/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_dl_8B7CF6GAT0923WYAZQ5F?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1 I also have a paper like screen protector
Not OP, but I think I found it: LINK
seems to have decent reviews
This one. Brand is DUX. Never heard of them and took a chance with amazons return policy. I tried a few cases and this was the one I loved the most, the others were too bulky, too flimsy, or just had something that irked me.
DUX DUCIS Case for iPad Mini 6 2021 (6th Generation) with Pencil Slot, Front Cover Detachable Auto Wake & Sleep Slim Transparent Shockproof Trifold Case for iPad Mini 6th Gen 8.3 Inch, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09M9HYJMP/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_BPQZ93Z51J0RSHTG24X5?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I got one that has optional room for the pencil. Without the pencil the flap fits snugly against the iPad. Really happy with the purchase.
ESR iPad mini 6 Case (2021, 8.3 Inch), Convenient Magnetic Attachment, Auto Sleep/Wake, Fully Supports Pencil 2, Slim and Silky iPad Cover, Rebound Series, Blue https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B099RW7XTM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_4F80YQH80B888P0DA900?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1