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Zugu Case iPad Pro 12.9 (2021/2022) vs OtterBox Defender Series iPad Pro 12.9 Case

The ZUGU is the better pick for most people: a slim folio with a 10-angle magnetic stand, a 2-year warranty and a free iPad repair program, and owners rate it 4.8 out of 5 across 792 ratings. The OtterBox Defender is the tougher case, with a built-in screen protector and rubberized shell that shrugs off drops and dirt, but it is much bulkier and heavier. Buy the ZUGU for everyday use and stand-heavy work; buy the Defender for kids, job sites and travel where the iPad gets knocked around.

  • Choose the ZUGU if you want a slim, good-looking folio with a strong multi-angle stand and a warranty that covers iPad repairs.
  • Choose the OtterBox Defender if you need maximum drop and dirt protection, including a built-in screen protector, and don't mind the bulk.

Prices

  • Zugu Case iPad Pro 12.9 (2021/2022): $69.99 at Walmart (checked today)
  • OtterBox Defender Series iPad Pro 12.9 Case: $69.06 at W.B. Mason (checked today)
  • Difference: the OtterBox Defender Series iPad Pro 12.9 Case is $0.93 cheaper than the Zugu Case iPad Pro 12.9 (2021/2022) today
ZUGU CASE
ZUGU CASE iPad Pro 12.9 Case (5th/6th Gen) 2021/2022

Zugu Case iPad Pro 12.9 (2021/2022)

ZUGU CASE iPad Pro 12.9 Case (5th/6th Gen) 2021/2022

4.8(792 ratings)
$69.99at WalmartChecked 9 h ago
See all prices and details
Visit Walmart
Pros
  • Slim profile for a 12.9-inch case
  • 10-angle magnetic stand holds firmly
  • 5 ft drop protection
  • 2-year warranty and free iPad repairs
  • Six color choices
Cons
  • No built-in screen protector
  • Fits only 2021 and 2022 12.9-inch iPad Pro
  • Fabric surface shows wear over time
OtterBox
OtterBox iPad Pro 12.9" 5th Gen 4th Gen 3rd Gen Defender Series Case

OtterBox Defender Series iPad Pro 12.9 Case

OtterBox iPad Pro 12.9" 5th Gen 4th Gen 3rd Gen Defender Series Case

$69.06at W.B. MasonChecked 9 h ago
See all prices and details
Visit W.B. Mason
Pros
  • Serious drop and shock protection
  • Built-in screen protector
  • Dirt-resistant shell
  • Fits 3rd, 4th and 5th gen 12.9-inch iPad Pro
Cons
  • Bulky and heavy at about 660 g
  • Fewer stand angles
  • Limited color selection

What separates them

Zugu Case iPad Pro 12.9 (2021/2022)OtterBox Defender Series iPad Pro 12.9 Case
Form factorSlim folio cover with a folding front flapRugged multi-layer shell with a built-in screen protector
StandMagnetic stand with 10 fixed anglesKickstand-style stand, fewer viewing positions
Drop protectionRated 5 ft drop protectionHeavy-duty shock absorption built for repeated drops
Weight17.7 ozAbout 23 oz (660 g)
Screen protectionCover flap only, no built-in screen protectorBuilt-in screen protector included
CompatibilityiPad Pro 12.9 5th and 6th gen (2021/2022) onlyiPad Pro 12.9 3rd, 4th and 5th gen
Warranty and repairs2-year warranty plus free iPad repair coverageStandard OtterBox limited lifetime warranty
ColorsSix colors including blue, green, red and purpleLimited color options

Price history

$69.99$69.06
Nov 8Nov 10
  • Zugu Case iPad Pro 12.9 (2021/2022): lowest $69.99 on Nov 8 at Best Buy; $69.99 on Nov 10.
  • OtterBox Defender Series iPad Pro 12.9 Case: lowest $69.06 on Nov 8 at W.B. Mason; $69.06 on Nov 10.

Prices at every store

Zugu Case iPad Pro 12.9 (2021/2022)

  • Zugu CaseNew

    In stock

    $69.99Free shippingChecked 9 h ago
    Visit Zugu Case
  • WalmartNew

    In stockSold by ZUGUReturns: Sold by a Walmart Marketplace seller; returns go to the seller under the seller's returns policy.

    $69.99Checked 9 h ago
    Visit Walmart
  • Best BuyNew

    In stock

    $69.99Free shippingChecked 9 h ago
    Visit Best Buy
  • AmazonNew

    Availability unknown

    As an Amazon Associate, Deal.ai earns from qualifying purchases.

    $69.99Free shippingChecked 9 h ago
    Visit Amazon

Store links may earn us a commission. Some prices via Klarna.

All 5 stores and price history →

OtterBox Defender Series iPad Pro 12.9 Case

  • W.B. MasonNew

    In stock

    $69.06Checked 9 h ago
    Visit W.B. Mason
  • CDWNew

    In stock

    $69.99Checked 9 h ago
    Visit CDW
  • SHI InternationalNew

    In stock

    $77.00Free shippingChecked 9 h ago
    Visit SHI International
  • eBayNew

    In stockSold by abdelhak-54

    $100.11Free shippingChecked 9 h ago
    Visit eBay

Store links may earn us a commission.

All 11 stores and price history →

Specs compared

SpecZugu Case iPad Pro 12.9 (2021/2022)OtterBox Defender Series iPad Pro 12.9 Case
Fits ProductTablet—
BluetoothNo—
FitsApple iPad Pro 12.9—
ColorBlue, Black, Green, Red, Purple, Brown—
Built-In StandYes—
Screen Size (")12.9—
MaterialFabric, Plastic—
Size12.9 inches—
Style—Case
Size Name—iPad Pro 12.9-Inch 3rd / 4th / 5th Gen
Compatible Brand—Apple
Compatible Device Type—Tablet
Show all 25 specsShow fewer specs
SpecZugu Case iPad Pro 12.9 (2021/2022)OtterBox Defender Series iPad Pro 12.9 Case
Compatible Screen Size—12.9 in
Form Factor Type—Case
Stand—Yes
Material Type—Polycarbonate, Synthetic rubber
Highlighted Materials—Polycarbonate, Synthetic rubber
Scratch Resistance—Yes
Shock Absorption—Yes
Water Resistance—Dirt Resistant
Exterior Dimensions—9.3 in (Width)

What reviewers say

Zugu Case iPad Pro 12.9 (2021/2022)

  • 4.8 / 5792 ratings

Owners rate it highly, at 4.8 out of 5 from 792 ratings. The magnetic stand and sturdy protection get the most praise. Complaints center on fit being limited to two iPad generations and the case adding some bulk.

What people mention
  • StandPraisedOwners like the magnetic stand's 10 angles and say it holds firm while typing or watching.
  • ProtectionPraisedReviewers describe the case as sturdy and trust the 5-foot drop rating.
  • FitMixedIt fits the 2021 and 2022 12.9-inch Pro well, but buyers of other iPad models are left out.
  • BulkCriticisedSome owners say the case adds weight and thickness compared with a slim folio.

OtterBox Defender Series iPad Pro 12.9 Case

Owners of the Defender Series generally report it survives drops and rough handling, and many keep it on for years. The common complaints are bulk, weight and a screen protector that dulls the display and needs cleaning.

What people mention
  • ProtectionPraisedOwners say it handles drops and daily knocks without damage to the iPad.
  • WeightCriticisedMany find the case heavy and bulky for carrying around.
  • Screen protectorMixedThe built-in protector is convenient but some say it dulls the display and collects dust.
  • Build qualityPraisedReviewers describe the shell and rubber bumpers as sturdy and well fitted.

Questions and answers

Which is better for kids or travel?
The OtterBox Defender. Its rubberized shell, shock absorption and built-in screen protector handle drops and dirt better than the ZUGU's folio design.
Which has the better stand?
The ZUGU. Its magnetic stand locks into 10 angles, so you can set it steep for typing or shallow for watching. The Defender's stand offers fewer positions.
Does the ZUGU fit the 2022 iPad Pro 12.9?
Yes. It fits the 5th and 6th gen 12.9-inch iPad Pro (2021 and 2022). The Defender fits the 3rd, 4th and 5th gen, so check your model before buying.
Which is lighter?
The ZUGU at 17.7 oz. The Defender weighs about 660 g, roughly a third more, which you notice when holding the iPad one-handed.
Is the ZUGU worth stepping up to over a basic folio?
Yes, if you use the stand daily. The 10-angle magnetic stand, 5 ft drop rating and free iPad repair coverage go beyond what most basic folios offer.
Does either case work with the Apple Pencil?
The ZUGU supports Apple Pencil 2 wireless charging with the flap folded back. The Defender's bulkier shell can make the Pencil harder to attach and charge.

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More comparisons

  • Dexnor Rugged Case for iPad Pro 12.9 Inch 6th 5th 4th 3rd Gen vs ZUGU CASE iPad Pro 12.9 Case (5th/6th Gen) 2021/2022
  • Dexnor Rugged Case for iPad Pro 12.9 Inch 6th 5th 4th 3rd Gen vs OtterBox iPad Pro 12.9" 5th Gen 4th Gen 3rd Gen Defender Series Case
  • ZUGU CASE iPad Pro 12.9 Case (5th/6th Gen) 2021/2022 vs iPad Pro 12.9" 3rd Gen/ 4th Gen/ 5th Gen/ 6th Gen Slim Protective Case
  • iPad Pro 12.9" 3rd Gen/ 4th Gen/ 5th Gen/ 6th Gen Slim Protective Case vs OtterBox iPad Pro 12.9" 5th Gen 4th Gen 3rd Gen Defender Series Case

Buying guides that pick them

  • Best iPad Pro 12.9-inch cases
Weight
—
660 g
Age Range—ADULT
Typical Users—UNISEX
Included Accessories—Built-in screen protector