Review of 3 types of Surface tablet cases:

I had some requests for a review of carrying cases for the Surface tablets. So, I set off on a quest of finding “the best” one. I say “the best” because of course this is a relative thing. As usual, it’s a matter of what you need and what you like.

I thought I’d approach this review by categorizing the tablet cases into 3 categories and by giving you my opinion on what they are good for and not be so good for.

I categorized the Surface tablet cases as follows:

• Neoprene Sleeves
• Traditional Carrying Cases
• Wallet Cases

First, let me preface this with a this note:  I am all about practicality.  If something is not practical, I don’t buy it.  The same goes for tablet cases.  In my opinion, the most practical ones are ones that not only protect your Surface but also have handles/and or a strap, making it easy to carry.

With that in mind, I went out and looked at a bunch of tablet cases in each category. I also checked out other reviews and even bought different cases to compare. I liked some, so I kept them; others I returned. In the end, I picked one winner in each category.

Here are my favorite Surface tablet cases in each of the categories:

Neoprene Sleeves

• Name: Neoprene Sleeve Case
  
• Manufacturer: KOZMICC
• Price: $13.50

Features: ultra light, pocket, handles, available in 10-inch and 13-inch, quality construction
Good for: light protection for your Surface and yet easy to fit into other things.

Buy at: Amazon

My 2cents: I love this sleeve! It is supper light and super portable.  If you get a 13-inch one than you have plenty of room for other things in it – Surface accessories, video adapters, or even a folder with some papers. The handles are awesome and it looks attractive.  It is also thin enough so that you can easily put it into another bag, purse, or whatever. And of course, you can’t beat the price. I’ve had one of these for a couple of years – used it with a netbook before I got my Surface RT and I can tell you that I’ve certainly got my money’s worth.

Traditional Carrying Cases

• Name: Hard Shell Carrying Case
  
• Manufacturer: SumacLife
• Price: $34.95

Features: inside security straps for your Surface tablet, pockets and dividers, mash pockets, zip pocket, long carrier strap, handles, four colors to choose from, 10-inch and 13-inch available.
Good for: hands-free carrying, fitting everything into one bag, full protection of the surface

Buy at: Amazon

My 2cents: this is my current case and probably my favorite. I like it for two main reasons: strap and the look. It looks like a little baby suitcase – kind of. It is light and its long strap allows me to cross it over my shoulders – a definite plus. The 10-inch one works just fine for Surface RT but I’d say it is a bit tight for the Pro. I’d recommend the 13-inch for the Surface Pro – it will allow you to put more stuff in. But as for the 10-in, it is plenty big for my Surface RT even has room for adapters and power cord.

Wallet Cases

• Name: Leather Wallet Case
  
• Manufacturer: Snugg
• Price: $29.99

Features: card slot, pocket, premium interior
Good for: professional look, protection of your Surface.

Buy at: Amazon

My 2cents: Personally, I don’t understand why anyone would ever want one of these.  Yes, it is nice. And yes, it looks cool. But how is it functional? I mean it has no strap or handles. What’s the point then? But I do know others that really like these. As far as the product itself, it seems nice and durable. And as I mentioned, they look cool – professional even. If you’re just looking for a protector that looks really high end, this one is for you.

So, which one is “the best”? Obviously for me it was the Hard Shell Carrying Case

because I decided to use it as my primary tablet case, but I’m partial to anything with a strap and handles. You have to decide for yourself which is best for what you like and need. Do you have a favorite carrying case?

You may also like our posts on MS Surface Accessories and Surface Books.

Joanna-