So you have a new iPad, if you're anything like some of my friends, your first instinct is to put that slim little tablet into the most protective case you can find. There are a few downsides to that, however, one of which is actually using the device. Surprised? Yes, the case you purchase does affect how you use the device.

As an iPad owner since the first generation, I have become quite familiar with the tablet and use it for so much more than just reading books and watching movies. Of course, the intended use of your iPad can have a lot of bearing on what case you choose. To help you pick the case that's right for how you want to use your iPad, here's the skinny on 4 that I tested.

M-Edge Hampton Jacket: What drew me to this case was the shiny jacket and the uView mounting system which should make it easy to use the iPad in both landscape and portrait orientation. You see, my family are huge FaceTime and Skype nerds, and video calls are the norm. Having a stand that lets me orient to the more flattering portrait orientation would be a serious boon for the video chats, and it would also be nice when reading books on scarce table space. Sadly though, I could not get the uView mounting system to work for portrait mode, and that combined with no easy rear camera access (since I could not get the mounting system to work) meant this case was not a winner for me. $40

Apple SmartCase: This case really tows the line between protection and function quite well, and while it might not be the prettiest to look at, it protects my iPad and has a nice typing and landscape viewing position. Since taking notes on my iPad is one of the ways I use it daily, this case earned my love with its very comfortable typing position. This case is also one that friends with kids love because it has a nice grip, thanks to the polyurethane material, and the volume buttons and speaker are pretty well covered, which is nice for messy kid hands. $50

M-Edge Trip Jacket: Although I had the same issues with the uView mounting system as I did with the Hampton Jacket, I did like this case a bit better since it had a decent typing position that was easier to activate, thanks to the grooves in the case. Still not quite as much of a favorite as the SmartCase, since using the rear camera is not as easy as I'd like and the case is much bulkier. $40

Moshi iGlaze + Versa Cover: By far the winner — once I put this case on my iPad I did not want to take it off. It's thin, it protects, it looks stylish, and it has a variety of stand positions thanks to the unique flap design. I can use it equally well whether in typing, landscape or portrait mode, and I just love the luxurious feel of the cover. Hands down a great, slim case that's well worth the price. $60

What iPad case have you discovered that's protective and highly functional?

(Images: Joelle Alcaidinho)

Apartment Therapy Media makes every effort to test and review products fairly and transparently. The views expressed in this review are the personal views of the reviewer and this particular product review was not sponsored or paid for in any way by the manufacturer or an agent working on their behalf. This specific product was purchased/provided by reviewer/manufacturer for testing and review purposes.