Quick tech specs
- The case to protect your device on the go
- Beautiful black color enriches the appearance
- Designed for apple pencil
- Manufactured with synthetic rubber material for durability
- Dirt Resistant durability for maximum efficiency and longevity
Know your gear
Guard your tablet with Defender Series, the legendary protective iPad Air (5th and 4th gen) case. Designed for real life, its multi-layer construction, built-in screen protector and versatile shield stand provide ultra-durability for working hard and playing even harder.
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OtterBox Defender Series - back cover for tablet is rated
4.30 out of
5 by
72.
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Scott Armacost from
Excellent Durability
All the OtterBox’s I’ve ever owned have performed perfectly and last a very long time with excellent protection for IPhones and iPads.
Date published: 2024-04-03T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Zach from
On/Off Top Button Stuck
When the case is put on, it pushes and holds down that top bottom. I used a pocket knife to shave that off and now it works alright. But annoying to do that to a new product.
Date published: 2023-02-24T00:00:00-05:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Cook from
Useful
It’s an otter ox. It’s heavy but appears durable. For my last iPad, which I used heavily in commercial kitchens, I replaced the case twice in about 10 years, and have yet to have any issues with the pad,
I do think the case is heavier than the iPad is these days.
Recommend for heavy use in hostile environments.
Date published: 2023-04-20T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
unusualeyes from
Durable case but ?
I like the OtterBox Defender cases… been using nothing but them on my phones
For years. They have saved my electronics many times. They make you feel safer.
But the Apple Pencil Door on this model is flimsy. Falls off easily. Not ready to be sold.
Still a nice durable case but that one feature with the pencil storage ruins, the product review. It would’ve been much better off just having storage for the pencil in the lid like your iPad mini 5 case that you sold.
Otterbox brains, could’ve & should’ve come up with something better for that Apple Pencil storage.
Date published: 2023-05-15T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Kolly from
Perfect iPad Air Case!
Fits iPad Air perfectly! All buttons work and the itouch, too!
Date published: 2024-02-05T00:00:00-05:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
RDGJ from
Offers great protection
I’ve owned the defender series before so it was no decision on what to purchase. Very heavy duty and offers great protection for my iPad Air
Date published: 2024-01-12T00:00:00-05:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
CoachAngie from
3 Broken IPad Screens
I am a coach and have been using iPads and lifeproof cases for years with no issue. Lately we purchased 2 new iPad Air 4th gen and I wanted to get good protection for them since we are outside and around sand. I’ve had iPad screens break 3 times. Initially after the first one I thought it was our own fault even though we weren’t sure how as we haven’t used it yet, just carrying it around, so got the screen replaced. Next thing you know the replaced screen broke again as well as the other iPad screen. We did nothing other than carry them in our bags.
This case seems to allow the iPad to bend and warp, the thickness of the bevel which seems like is supposed to help keep things away from the screen contributes to allowing for it to torque. I’m not sure what other explanation it could be.
I’m positive it’s the cases, as all cracks have the same pattern and stem from the same place indicating a rotational torque. They have not been carried around in responsibly, not stuffed into backpacks. I’m so disappointed. Both of our iPad screens are broken and they are brand new and one has already been replaced once.
I don’t usually write reviews but this experience was really opposite to why we had purchased what we thought was the case on the market that was supposed to protect our iPads the most.
Our one lifeproof case lasted on the iPad for 9 years and it’s still in great condition no problem.
Unfortunately ive completely lost confidence in the brand.
Date published: 2023-12-30T00:00:00-05:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
gramlovesapple from
love our defender
great protection, especially with the kids using electronics
Date published: 2023-11-10T00:00:00-05:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
moonlightcheese from
Causes permanent damage to device glass
This product damaged the glass on my iPad Air 4th gen. The case wraps the outer edge of the device with a hard plastic which causes blemishes and scratches to appear on the surface where the case encapsulates the outer edge, permanently damaging the glass.
Date published: 2023-10-31T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Scott from
Excellent Durability
All the OtterBox’s I’ve ever owned have performed perfectly and last a very long time with excellent protection for IPhones and iPads.
Date published: 2024-04-03T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
GS02 from
Best protection case!
Great product. Great protection for adults and kids.
Date published: 2023-02-12T00:00:00-05:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
LLumpp from
Great case!
This is a great product! It is very durable and I love the stand and that it comes with a protective layer for the screen. Highly recommend!
Date published: 2020-12-16T00:00:00-05:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Skillett from
Not expected
I have the original iPad and the first iPad Air that are equipped with the defender cases. From day one they’ve been in the cases and recently I took them out and as expected, not a scratch, dint or crack on either one.
I purchased a new iPad Air GEN4 and of course, time to equip it with a defender case so I ordered one. I should have looked closer and realized they have designed the case differently so it is in part my fault, but the case is not like the old ones. The new case has a compartment for the Apple pen. Good concept, but it’s a cheap thin plastic door on the side that will not last. With the door removed almost the entire side of the iPad is exposed. Just opening it, it fell off and I had to snap it back on.
Both of my old iPads have lasted through two kids and the new iPad was intended to be for my youngest child. I do not have confidence in the new defender case to hold up and protect the iPad the way previous models have.
Otter box needs to do away with the cheap plastic door that pops off and my child will loose or come out with another completely sealed case like previous models.
Date published: 2020-12-13T00:00:00-05:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Frankster from
Best Purchase ever
I am so happy I bought this about a month ago otterbox is the best for cases don't use any other
Date published: 2020-11-30T00:00:00-05:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Just right from
Fits perfect
I had an Otter box for my iPad Air 2, and it kept my iPad pristine. So when I got a new iPad I bought another Otter box to take care of my new iPad.
Date published: 2020-12-13T00:00:00-05:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Happy Owner from
Great Way To Protect iPad Air and Apple Phones
We just updated our iPhones and iPad Air, the first thing we looked for was new Defender Series Cases, we were so satisfied with the previous Defender Cases that protected our Apple phones in the past for five plus years. If you tend to occasionally drop your phone or iPad or not this is a wonderful purchase
Date published: 2021-02-21T00:00:00-05:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
PDM5 from
Worth the Price
This case is very sturdy, perfect for my son who is not always careful with his things. Very easy to wipe down finger prints and grime from screen. We are happy the quality of this product.
Date published: 2021-02-20T00:00:00-05:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Misty from
Most dependable product
I have made numerous purchases for protective gear for my iPads, which we have 6, and our iPhones, which we have 2, and all have been the otterbox defender series. This product is beyond a doubt, the most reliable, protective and worth every cent spent. My daughter has had her first ipad for 5 years and it still looks brand new, thanks to this product. Highly recommended.
Date published: 2021-03-03T00:00:00-05:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Neonedgewater from
Great, classic otter
Great product very safe. Would have loved to seen a better integration for the Apple Pencil. I fear when I have it on it may slip off because of the design. Top cover is a bit overkill but you don’t have to use it that much. Only complaint really is the screen that comes with the otter product. It’s glued into the plastic and creates a bubble between my other screen protector when drawing. Totally understand the otter box is not an artist’s case. Would love to remove the stock plastic protector and just have mine on top that is bubble free etc.
Date published: 2021-01-31T00:00:00-05:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
iPad Kid from
Really like this OtterBox
Have purchased numerous OtterBox’s for my son’s iPads over the years (as he’s pretty hard on them. This new one was perfect for his new iPad. Was easy to put on. Highly recommend this model, it has plastic protector for the screen as well.
Date published: 2020-11-19T00:00:00-05:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Carwriter1 from
Don't Leave Home Without It
This is the fifth OtterBox case I've bought over the years to protect my devices - 2 iPads, 2 iPhones, and an iPod Touch. In fact, when I get a new device, I won't use it until it's safely encased in an OtterBox. My devices get used hard, and I've never cracked a screen or had to repair a device. Coincidence? I think not.
Date published: 2021-01-16T00:00:00-05:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
No nickname from
Great projection but very poor access to Apple Pen
Have used the Defender about a month. Great protection but trying to remove the Apple Pencil is tricky. The best way is to push down on the pencil point while pushing the pencil.
Date published: 2020-11-08T00:00:00-05:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Bigbrutus from
The best protection ever for any device
I bought two otter boxes for my iPads ,because they have been protecting my ipads from the drops and bangs by being used by my young grand daughters who can be inattentive while using my iPads . A definite must have for your best protection.
Date published: 2021-08-11T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Stellarfly from
Heavy duty protection
We bought this mostly to protect our iPad from abuse from our kids. While they haven’t thrown it, it is extremely sturdy and protective. I love the hard cover that can go over the front or the back of the iPad. Solid case!
Date published: 2021-07-05T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Julie from
WoW, it’s thé perfect protection for iPad!
I bought it to protect the school iPad’ s son. It’s not available in Quebec for the iPad Air 4th gen.
It’s very expensive and i had to pay US money. The shipping was very fast and the product is very incredible!!!
Date published: 2021-08-06T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
MaDiv from
What was expected
Received the Defender case and it is the same basic design but still very different from previous versions. The case is sturdier, heavier and fully accommodates the iPad Air. Nice allowances for speakers, charging plugs, Touch ID button and iPad pencil charging. I do have a little difficulty separating the two pieces but it should get easier as it’s more used.
Date published: 2021-07-12T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Scortch from
Great product.
Great product. But assembly instructions are lacking. Even the video is short and too fast moving. It took my feeble mind a while to figure it out.
Date published: 2023-01-16T00:00:00-05:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
LNC1 from
Great product
Great case for iPad. Protects iPad good. Easy to install. Works great!!
Date published: 2022-12-19T00:00:00-05:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Dfer from
Best Cover For IPad
I love it good material. I love OtterBox products good quality.
Date published: 2021-09-13T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Becca from
Strong
So far so good. It is for my teenage son with autism and he is not careful with his iPads.
Date published: 2022-04-06T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Dani127 from
Love otterbox
My husband and I have always used Otterbox cases for all our devices so naturally when we got an iPad Air it was getting an Otterbox case. Long story short, the case got lost in the mail and usps couldn’t do anything to help me find my package. I contacted Otterbox and without hesitation, they sent another case in the mail. Customer service was very friendly and the cases are always great. This is another part of why we will always be lifelong Otterbox customers. Great quality products and fantastic customer service. Thank you Otterbox!
Date published: 2022-11-01T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Debbie L from
Great fit!
The Otterbox Defender case fit my new iPad Air perfectly. It was easy to put together and allowed easy access to all buttons and plugins. Design is slim and perfect for iPad without home button.
Date published: 2022-04-13T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
hihi from
pretty good purchase
i dont need the apple pencil compartment since i dont have it but the case it self is extremely good. my ipad fell down a few of my wooden stairs and all that happened was just a tiny scratch
Date published: 2022-10-29T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
JonMartin from
A Solid Choice - Could Use Improvement
I certainly feel my iPad Air is securely protected in the Defender Case. The built-in screen protection is an added plus and does not interfere with haptic input. The disassembly of the Defender Case is a little tricky. I had to contact Customer Service for assistance. They were great!
I wish the Case offered incremental angle adjustment for viewing. I would prefer something in between what is offered for high and low viewing settings. The charging port is difficult to access with the very springy rubber port cover. I find it somewhat difficult to plug in and unplug the charging cable. Lastly, the volume controls require a firm press to activate with the Case on.
I honestly considered returning the Case but the positives outweigh the negatives. I’m hoping the rubber becomes more pliable once the case ‘breaks in’. That should resolve a couple of my concerns. Bottom line: Solid protection, a little hefty, but probably offers the best protection available. I think it would be a five star Case with a couple slight modifications.
Date published: 2022-04-18T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Debbie from
Great fit!
The Otterbox Defender case fit my new iPad Air perfectly. It was easy to put together and allowed easy access to all buttons and plugins. Design is slim and perfect for iPad without home button.
Date published: 2022-04-13T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
bsteel from
Minor problems but good overall.
Only 2 complaints. 1-the support to hold iPad up leaves it either down too low or to upright for comfortable reading. I’ve went to using my iPhone to brace it at a comfortable level but this ties up y phone. 2- the flap over the charging input makes it hard to plug in and out. Other than that I’m happy with the case.
Date published: 2022-04-19T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
ReeSolo from
Best iPad protection
Great product keeps iPad safe and looking like new
Date published: 2022-04-10T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Rebecca from
Strong
So far so good. It is for my teenage son with autism and he is not careful with his iPads.
Date published: 2022-04-06T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Sissy from
Security
I wound not trust my devices in any other product!
Date published: 2021-09-22T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Joey from
Seems to do the job
I bought this a month ago and it works as advertised
Date published: 2021-05-29T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
JohnW from
Great Prtection
This is my second Defender case. The first one ensured I got maximum trade-in value for my previous iPad. It may look cool to carry a super-thin tablet but I'd prefer a case that makes sure it lasts!
Date published: 2021-05-30T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Jmac from
Best ever.
This is awesome! Bought it for my wife a few weeks ago and let me tell you…..what a unit!!
Date published: 2021-09-19T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Robert45RW from
Excellent product
I had an Otterbox on a cell phone before and liked it, so it was not a difficult decision to buy one for my new iPad.
Date published: 2021-06-06T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Jann from
Otter is the best
I always buy Otter products for my iPhones and iPads. You can always count on the durability and quality of their products. I have dropped both my iPhone and iPad and always protected. My son has dropped his phone and so far has had to buy three new screen savers because he didn’t have an otter. It may be heavier in weight but my iPad is more important this product can take a hit big time!!!
Date published: 2021-05-01T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Forever23 from
Not for beginners
I bought his but had no idea how to get my iPad into it. Thank God for friends!
Date published: 2021-04-26T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
MDanzio from
Rugged case perfect fit
Great protection for my new iPad Air. With the cover on it stays safe in my bag!
Date published: 2021-09-03T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Dfern3085 from
Best Cover For IPad
I love it good material. I love OtterBox products good quality.
Date published: 2021-09-13T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Long Island from
Superior Protection
All of my Apple products use Otterbox Defender cases so when I bought the newer iPad Air I knew I wanted this case.
What I love about this case is that it has the cover which acts as a stand + encases the iPad when traveling + there is a clear plastic film that helps keep dust & dirt from getting directly onto the screen. The only place I could find this particular case was directly from Otterbox.
You cannot go wrong with Otterbox.
Date published: 2021-09-28T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Nord from
Best protection for tablets and phones
I picked this up quite recently as I finally upgraded my iPad mini to a larger iPad. I have used Otterbox for almost all of my phones, especially since I started using iPhones, and I’ve never had a reason to complain or to doubt my devices being protected. I still don’t.
This case fits the iPad perfectly and provides the protection I wanted as well as peace of mind when using it carrying my tablet with me. It even has a latch covering the side that allows access to connect and charge the Apple Pencil(iPencil?.
Overall, I am quite happy with my purchase and will absolutely be using/purchasing other Otterbox products in the future depending on need.
Date published: 2021-10-03T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Ines from
Durability Gold Seal
Excellent for construction workers who need a rugged and strong protective case
Date published: 2021-11-17T00:00:00-05:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Tiger Banker from
Great service and product
The product works as advertised. I assumed it would be difficult to install but I did it in a relative short time.
Date published: 2021-10-21T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Al Muerza from
Great protection, not so great stand
Yeah OtterBox case itself is awesome you could probably drop this thing from 10 feet on the corner and it would survive. The problem is the stand, it is not adjustable you’re either using it nearly vertical or nearly flat somewhere in the middle would’ve been nice.
Date published: 2021-10-29T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Eric from
It’s an OtterBox
It’s exactly what you expect an OtterBox case to be. Don’t make the same mistake that I did, the case comes with a screen protector and you won’t need the tempered glass. All in all, a rugged case.
Feedback for OtterBox:
Ditch a crappy screen protector and use the tempered glass like you’ve done with some cell models.
Date published: 2021-10-26T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
ThamiG from
Encasement Supreme!
Protects my iPad Air 4 to the nth degree. Works great in conjunction with the Apple Pencil 2, as well. Thanks Otterbox!
Date published: 2021-10-24T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Missy from
Miss Get It Done
I love the assurance of Protection the Case gives me but I do not like the one end that snaps out! It snaps out all the Time!
Date published: 2022-03-09T00:00:00-05:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Robert from
Glad I read the reviews
I'm very glad that I read all of the reviews. I have always purchased otter box cases for all of my iphone's and ipad's, and have been very happy with the level of protection in a dirty harsh environment. But for the new ipad air 4 that i just purchased, I guess that I will look for another option. I really don't need the hassle of things falling off and dirt getting inside the case. Kind of defeats the whole purpose of the protective case. Thanks for the very informative reviews.
Date published: 2022-03-09T00:00:00-05:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Larson from
Defender series are the best protection
The shipping to Canada was fast and the quality of the product is top notch....
Date published: 2022-02-17T00:00:00-05:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Esanghae from
Worst iPad case I’ve ever purchased.
I have had a defender series case on almost all of my iPads and have loved it up to this point. The iPad Air 4 has an almost fatal flaw where the Apple Pencil connects. This case leaves this area almost completely exposed. The flimsy door over this area has come off twice now and the main frame of the case/rubber bumper provides little or no protection/stability. My other issue is I use my iPad to watch movies. I do very little work on it and do not own an Apple Pencil. Having this door does nothing for me but create an area where my case dose not protect my iPad. I really wish there has been two versions of this case. One with the door and one without. Extremely disappointed in this case.
Date published: 2022-02-14T00:00:00-05:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
ELIZ from
Still love the Otterbox
I have bought many defender cases and always loved them. This one is also great. It has a large enough lip around the camera that now sticks out on the IPad. The case is still well made with it’s hard and soft cases together. The missing star is for the not up to par design of the IPad pencil storage cover. The cover does not open and close as it seems to be meant to do. It either comes off or clicks on. This means either my pencil is on the IPad or my cover is on, but not both. Otherwise, the cover is great and protects things well so far.
Date published: 2021-05-19T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Lulu from
Gerry good perchase
I am so happy and my Dad too and I recomand that product to everyone
Date published: 2021-07-07T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Shea1983 from
Good with a flaw
I bought this exact case for my sons iPad mini 3 years ago and the case has been fantastic. The iPad is still in great condition. Naturally, I decided to buy this case for my new iPad Air. My only complaint is the latch/cover for the Apple Pencil charging spot. It’s constantly falling off and allows dust and other debris to get into an otherwise sealed case. I’ll be returning it because of that.
Date published: 2021-05-17T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Adam from
Rushed To Production
I have enjoyed the Defender line from Otterbox on all of my devices over the years however, this case is something else. The plastic halves that snap together up by the sleep/wake button does not mesh together properly, there is about a 2mm gap between both mating surfaces. Secondly, on the back of the case where the rubberized shell wraps around the case by the logo is bumped out leaving an edge to catch your finger on that will surely fray over time. This could have been avoided by making the plastic shell flush with the outer casing.
Date published: 2021-05-15T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Carlos from
Great protection for IPad
I use my IPad a lot, and this case offer a great protection and its very easy to grab and to work with it. The down is that it make the IPad a bit heavy, but I don’t mind because I’m getting a superb protection all around it, even for traveling, just put the case cover on and it will protect the screen as well.
Date published: 2021-05-10T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
AllanB from
Fit, Form, and Function
Everything you expect from Otterbox. A little different design, same high quality.
Date published: 2021-05-11T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Duke from
great protection
Best protection you can get for your ipad air 4th gen you will not go wrong with this case.
Date published: 2021-08-08T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Highwayman8a from
10th otter box
This is just like all the other otter box's cases I have had heavy duty and Indestructible
Date published: 2021-06-26T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Tom L from
Otterbox is the best
OtterBox is always the best protection for all your devices. Great product, excellent warranty.
Date published: 2021-03-22T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Anthony from
Ipad otterbox cover 5th & 4th
Easy to install. Protects my pencil. Can work on ipad without fingerprints on it. The cover is what i was wanting also, to put in backpack. Do use tilt. And, pencil cover i just took off.
Date published: 2023-08-04T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
KevinP from
Another excellent quality product from Otterbox
Only had this case for my iPad for approx. 1 month but it fits great and if it lasts as long as my other Otterbox products I’m sure I’ll love it.
Date published: 2021-06-02T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Freddy from
Week latch for Apple Pencil acces
On the right of the case for iPad Air 4 has a latch to access the pencil magnet on tablet. My latch broke, is there a way to get it replaced without paying shipping for a whole new case?
Date published: 2022-01-30T00:00:00-05:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Lisa K from
Too bulky
This was purchased for my sons iPad Air and it was way too complicated and did not like the plastic cover over the screen, although it would be ultimate protection. It was just too bulky for our needs
Date published: 2023-10-01T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
JoseUriel from
I always trust in otterbox
I bought this a month ago and am so happy for this.
Date published: 2021-03-07T00:00:00-05:00