Customers are pleased with the Defender Series Case's excellent protection and the convenient built-in screen protector. Many appreciate the case's snug fit and ease of use, along with the inclusion of Apple Pencil storage and charging capabilities. However, some find the case to be heavy and bulky, and a few customers expressed concerns about the price and limited viewing angles offered by the stand.
This summary was generated by AI based on customer reviews.
The vast majority of our reviews come from verified purchases. Reviews from customers may include My Best Buy members, employees, and Tech Insider Network members (as tagged). Select reviewers may receive discounted products, promotional considerations or entries into drawings for honest, helpful reviews.
Page 1 Showing 1-20 of 271 reviews
Pros mentioned:
Protection
Cons mentioned:
Angle
Rated 4 out of 5 stars
Otterbox is the best for protecting your device!
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Posted . Owned for 1 week when reviewed.
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
Definitely worth it for the added protection. Otterbox has amazing, and hassle free customer service! I would have given this case 5 stars if, there was more options to position the IPad from the case. What I mean by that is, the IPad will only position it’s self at a 90 degree angle. Where most cases have at least 3 different angles to prop up your IPad. Also for those of you wondering, it does have a place for the Pencil as well!
Other than that one thing you will not be disappointed at all!
I would recommend this to a friend
Pros mentioned:
Protection
Rated 4 out of 5 stars
OtterBox Protection but Poor Viewing Angles
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Posted . Owned for 3 months when reviewed.
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
Protection is perfect. Viewing angles are not. Included photos show how to make it work.
I would recommend this to a friend
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Mybigipadilove
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Posted .
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
I enjoy my ipadl ove it feel like watch tv in bed it so big i got my granddaughter on great Camera
I would recommend this to a friend
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Best protection ever
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Posted . Owned for 1 month when reviewed.
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
If your looking for the best rugged case look no further than Otterbox.
I would recommend this to a friend
Pros mentioned:
Fit, Protection, Screen protector
Cons mentioned:
Weight
Rated 3 out of 5 stars
Good quality, poor execution
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Posted . Owned for 1 week when reviewed.
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
I purchased this case because it was one of the only ones in stock for my iPad at my local Best Buy. I am familiar with OtterBox and have owned Defender series cases for my iPhones in the past.
The Good: As with all OtterBox Defender Series cases this one is built like a tank. Screen protector is built in of course. The iPad fits snuggly and feels very secure. There is a hard plastic cover that snaps on covering the front or the back of the iPad. The rubber cover is thick and non-slip making your iPad easy to hang on to and keep it from slipping off a table or sliding around on your car seat.
The bad: It's extremely heavy and bulky. At 25 ounces it weighs more than the iPad it is protecting more than doubling the weight and size of the sleek iPad Pro. While there is a door that opens to attach and charge and Apple Pencil opening the door make the rubber around the bezel of the iPad case flimsy and it easily comes loose from the hard shell part of the case. It works but it is just an overall bad design. I can see it causing the rubber cover to wear unevenly and even break over time.
The Ugly: the hard cover that is supposed to double as a stand is worthless. It has two positions. One is too straight up to be useful unless the iPad is at eye level and the other is laying down at an angle that is so low that it is useless unless you are leaning over the top looking down as if it were laying flat on the table. Making it a pretty much worthless accessory. Mine stays home most of the time.
Would I recommend this to a friend? No. Not really I purchased it on sale at $50 off MSRP and it still isn't worth it. There are plenty of other options out there in this price range that provides just as good protection, looks cleaner and functions better.
No, I would not recommend this to a friend
Brand response from OtterBox Customer Support
Posted .
Hi, Michael!
We're sorry to hear about your frustration with your Defender Series case! We appreciate your feedback about the shield stand, and we'll be sure to get it passed up the ladder to our design team. As for that port cover that's got you worried, don't forget we have a great warranty on your case. If anything happens to your OtterBox, please don't hesitate to reach out to our Customer Service Team here: https://www.otterbox.com/en-us/support
Best, OtterBox Customer Service Team
Pros mentioned:
Apple pencil, Protection
Cons mentioned:
Bulk
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Best protection for my new iPad pro
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Posted . Owned for 3 weeks when reviewed.
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
Since I just dropped a lot of money on my new iPad Pro I wanted protection that I could trust. I have been using the otter box defender series on every piece of tech I own. This one didn’t fail to impress me. It fully encloses my iPad but still maintains a slimmer profile than some other bulky brands. It even has a section to flip up for the pencil to charge. I have already dropped my iPad onto the floor because I feel asleep watching a show with it propped on a pillow on my tummy. That’s just me...lol. When I went to pick it up I held my breath hoping that I wouldn’t see a cracked screen (I have tile floors), and i was immediately relieved to see my iPad in perfect condition. This is not a cheap case but it offers protection without too much bulk I just can’t find anywhere else. Super happy with how fast Best Buy delivered it as well, even with everything taking longer than usual it was at my door quicker than I expected.
I would recommend this to a friend
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
I don’t care for the screen cover for Pencil use.
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Posted . Owned for 1 month when reviewed.
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
That’s the only bad trait of this OtterBox. I have been a OtterBox fan since my first iPhone over a decade ago. They have always served me well and I’m rough on my phone. I have an OtterBox on all my Apple mobile devices. They give an added sense of security and grip.
I was apprehensive to buy this case thanks to the price. The most expensive OtterBox I’ve ever bought. I even tried a lesser brand to make do and save some bucks but nope, even a $85 knockoff was unqualified. I returned the knockoff and popped for the full size. I have been very happy with the durability and stability it has added to my iPad. Again only draw back in the floppy film screen cover it is not conducive to the Pencil.
I would recommend this to a friend
Pros mentioned:
Apple pencil, Protection, Screen protector
Cons mentioned:
Weight
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Great value
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Posted . Owned for 7 months when reviewed.
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
All around protection for your iPad. It does add a little weight but nothing too drastic. You can open a flap at the top to charge your pencil. Built in screen protector has held up the last year, no scratches or discoloration.
I would recommend this to a friend
Pros mentioned:
Ease of use, Fit, Protection
Rated 4 out of 5 stars
IPad Pro 4th Gen case - Otterbox
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Posted . Owned for 1 month when reviewed.
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
I recently purchased the IPad Pro and knew that I need an Otterbox case. The case fits snug, it’s easy to clean and I know that it’s safe. My only concerns are that I purchased the pencil and I’m not crazy about the flap or where the pencil is stored and the protective screen seems to let dust or crumbs in and you have to take the case off to clean. Also, it seems to retain moisture from the air.
I would recommend this to a friend
Pros mentioned:
Protection, Screen protector
Cons mentioned:
Price
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Terrific Case Option
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Posted . Owned for 1 week when reviewed.
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
Can’t beat the protection on this and the built in screen protector is helpful. Bulky? Yes, but better than having a broken iPad. My only complaint is the price, Otterbox definitely charges over the top fees for these regardless of any store markup. The best thing, it supports the wireless charging of the second gen pencil.
I would recommend this to a friend
Pros mentioned:
Protection, Screen protector
Cons mentioned:
Color options
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Very durable
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Posted . Owned for 1 month when reviewed.
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
Overall I love it. I wanted a case that would protect the ipad well since I use it alot. I figured the price would be cheaper than the price and hassle of repairs if I dropped it with a cheap case. Also I liked how the screen protector is built in. My only complaint is that at this price point I feel that there should be at minimum 3 color choices.
I would recommend this to a friend
Pros mentioned:
Protection
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Great protection
Posted .
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
Good protection does add weight to the iPad as it should. There is a stand that comes with us that i use an i house my Apple Pencil in it but i always find the pencil slipping out it fits the first gen Apple Pencil perfect but the second gen slides out easy so you might have to watch out for that if you have the Apple Pencil.
I would recommend this to a friend
Pros mentioned:
Screen protector
Cons mentioned:
Price
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Great protection!
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Posted . Owned for 1 week when reviewed.
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
Way too pricey but I do love how sturdy it makes my iPad feel, I do wish they would have designed the Apple Pencil feature a bit differently but it still is a good case. I actually removed the plastic film that acts like a screen protector and used my own paper like screen protector and absolutely love it.
I would recommend this to a friend
Pros mentioned:
Screen protector
Cons mentioned:
Price
Rated 4 out of 5 stars
good but could improve
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Posted .
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
I prefer cases like this that have a built-in screen protector so I am very pleased with my purchase and being able to find an otter box with the built-in screen. Although I do think the case is overpriced for what it is. My only big complaint is the area of the case where the charger goes is extremely tuff and presses down on the charger cord so I think overtime it will damage the chargers cord. Its also difficult to use the button on top that turns off the iPad. Hoping it will be easier overtime but I didn't have this issue with the last case I purchased for my older iPad and it looks identical to this case.
I would recommend this to a friend
Pros mentioned:
Ease of use, Protection
Cons mentioned:
Price
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Great case for ultimate protection.
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Posted . Owned for 3 weeks when reviewed.
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
The ultimate in total protection for your iPad. Easy to install. The only knock... kind of pricey.
I would recommend this to a friend
Pros mentioned:
Protection
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Well Worth the investment! Protect your iPad
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Posted . Owned for 2 months when reviewed.
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
As well all know iPads arent cheap they are basically a computer. Watching my kids grow up through the years, I've seen iPads their iPads hit the floor on many occasions. I always insist they they have their iPads in a OtterBox case. They are extremely durable and can withstand the abuse that children tend to put the iPads through. We have never broke an iPad while using this case. Trust me, I have seen AND heard some cringeworthy drops that they have made. The screen protector is very durable. I take them apart from time to time to clean them all up. Then it's back to those with the sticky fingers. If you plan to buy an iPad, you should protect that investment with the Defender Series case. You won't regret it.
I would recommend this to a friend
Pros mentioned:
Protection
Cons mentioned:
Weight
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Great Case
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Posted . Owned for 3 weeks when reviewed.
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
Otter Box cases provide excellent protection for the expensive electronic device. I am pleased with this one. It is in essence the same as the one that was on my old iPad. New device means a new case. The case is very sturdy, and although a bit heavy proveds extremely good protection.
I would recommend this to a friend
Pros mentioned:
Protection
Cons mentioned:
Bulk
Rated 4 out of 5 stars
Sturdy, does what it’s supposed to.
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Posted . Owned for 1 month when reviewed.
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
A bit bulky but protects the iPad well. Hard to take on and off. Only thing I’d change is the screen protector covering the front camera. I use my iPad a lot for zoom meetings but my infant likes to watch Moana on it. So, it gets a little difficult taking the cover on and off, but it does what it’s supposed to do.
I would recommend this to a friend
Pros mentioned:
Protection
Cons mentioned:
Weight
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Fits tablet as advertised and easy to install
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Posted . Owned for 3 weeks when reviewed.
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
Great heavy duty protection. Makes sense for outdoor or construction activities. Adds extra weight to the tablet. Might be too heavy for some users. If the front cover is installed on the back, It has to be lifted to insert the charging cable for charging. A minor issue.
I would recommend this to a friend
Pros mentioned:
Protection
Cons mentioned:
Angle, Weight
Rated 2 out of 5 stars
very heavy
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Posted . Owned for 3 weeks when reviewed.
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
This case really protects my iPad. However, let's talk about the holder. The case is heavy, and there is nothing to hold onto. When I put my iPad Pro 12.9 inch into it the angle is nearly 90 degrees. You can see from the pic my iPad is almost vertical. The other position is also nearly useless, unless you intend to use your iPad as a keyboard. My husband is using the 10.5 inch iPad Pro case also from otterbox but his is about 80 degrees, much better for watching videos/etc . I didn't think this would be a big issue when I ordered the case, it is a big issue. The case is heavy. I had to order a tablet holder with an adjustable angle to be able to enjoy my iPad in this extremely expensive case.
No, I would not recommend this to a friend
Brand response from OtterBox Customer Support
Posted .
Hi there!
We're sorry to hear about your frustration with the Shield Stand on your Defender Series case! We greatly appreciate your feedback about the viewing angles, and we'll be sure to let our engineers know about your experience. If you run into any other issues with your case, please don't hesitate to reach out to our helpful Customer Service Team here: https://www.otterbox.com/en-us/contact-us