Speck HandyShell (for iPad 2 and New iPad)

Despite its thin and light design, using the Apple iPad isn't always the most ergonomically sound affair. There are a number of stands and cases designed to address this issue, but the Speck HandyShell ($54.95 direct) is something of a combination of the two. Like most cases, it will add protection to your tablet, but the real killer feature here is the collapsible handle on the back, which acts as a versatile stand, handgrip, and hanging hook.?There are two separate products listed on Speck's site, one for the iPad 2 and one for the New iPad, but I tested the New iPad version and found the fit was perfect for both.?

The case itself is fairly standard, with a hard matte plastic back with a softer rubber outer ridge that allows the iPad to slip easily in and out of the case. There are cutouts for the headphone jack, camera, lock switch, speaker, and 30-pin port. There are built-in rubber buttons for Power and Volume, and all the ports are easily accessible. The outer edge wraps around the bezel, adding protection from light bumps for the iPad's screen. The HandyShell weighs 0.46 pounds and makes the iPad about an inch thick at its thickest point, so it's going to add some heft to the otherwise svelte tablet. Also, keep in mind that the HandyShell is not Smart Cover compatible. There are three color combos to choose from; black and grey, black and yellow, or pebble and lilac (gray and purple).?

That thickness accommodates the aforementioned handle, and given the usefulness of that addition, I'd say it's a worthwhile tradeoff. The rounded handle is about 5.5 inches long and 3 inches wide, with a rubberized finish that improves grip. There is a single hinge at the bottom that has a nice weight to it, allowing it to hold any angle under the weight of the iPad itself. The handle functions as a vertical and horizontal stand to prop your tablet up. It also serves as a hook for hanging the tablet up, which is useful for keeping the tablet in sight but off of potentially dirty surfaces?like while cooking. The handle also alleviates hand strain and fatigue from one-handed use, providing a secure grip and more even weight distribution. ??

All told, the Speck HandyShell is one of the simplest and most genuinely useful iPad cases I've tested. The closest competitor to come through our labs, in terms of function, is the Octa Vacuum Dock + WhaleTail ($49.95, 3.5 stars), which adds a comfortable handgrip and adjustable stand, but does not provide any protection and is a bit more awkward to take on the go. The HandyShell will add some bulk and it's a bit expensive at $55, but given the solid level of protection and extremely versatile handle, this is definitely one case worth checking out.?

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