After appreciating the Toro Leather Case for the iPhone Max, I decided to try out their version for the iPad Mini 6.
Should you get one? Let’s find out..
Design and Functionality
The Toro Leather Case wraps your iPad Mini in a layer of dead animal. It feels nice, though. Very comfortable to hold.
It’s a well-built, all-in-one folio style case that feels great to hold – a perfect companion for back-to-back meetings.
It comes with an elastic strap for secure closure and a handy fold-back feature; allowing you to prop up the iPad for a video or pair it with a keyboard / mouse for work on the go.
It doesn’t have any way of securely attaching the Apple Pencil, which is a major flaw given this case works best when turning your iPad into a sexy leather notebook. There have been a few times when I’ve taken it out of a bag and the Apple Pencil has dropped off.
It does add some weight and thickness, edging towards the uncomfortable side if you’re planning to use your iPad as an e-reader. And it’s not super-easy to get in and out – it’s wedged into a plastic shell inside the folio rather than attached by magnets.
Durability
No issues with the durability. The Toro Leather Case feels sturdy and well made.
I suspect it will offer some protection against drops. And it definitely keeps scratches off the back and sides, and protects the glass when the front flap is closed.
Price
Here’s the rub: As of 15 January 2024, the Toro Leather Case will set you back $98.00 AUD plus shipping. Ouch.
For me, that’s a bit too much.
I think this would be a good buy at the $40 - 59.00 range.
X-Factor
Much like the Dodocase, the Toro Leather Case turns your iPad Mini into a tech-savvy notebook. If you’re using your iPad Mini 90% for taking handwritten notes, you might like this option.
But then, unlike the Dodocase, this one doesn’t have anything to attach your Apple Pencil. Huge downer.
Although the device needs to be wedged into an inner plastic frame (i.e. rather than attaching magnetically), it’s not particularly hard to do and I will occasionally throw this case on when I know I’ve got a week full of meetings and I want to carry this with me rather than putting it into a separate bag.
The leather really does feel nice.
Should You Buy This?
Probably not, no.
It’s just too expensive and adds a level of bulk and weight that takes away from the iPad Mini’s other advantages. And the lack of loop / clip / ribbon / more elastic to keep your Apple Pencil attached is such a loss.
If they could make the iPad attach with magnets so it was dead easy to throw on and off, this would be worth a try. But for now I’d save your money.
The leather does feel nice, though.
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