It’s been a bit quiet in the iPad Mini case front but that doesn’t mean there aren’t any new cases out there that I haven’t tried yet. One of the newest cases I’m using now for my iPad Mini is the X-Doria Dash Folio. I’ve reviewed a few X-Doria cases in the past, mainly for the iPhone and have been impressed with their unique designs and build quality. X-Doria designs cases that are very different looking from what’s out there right now but serves the same purposes. Their iPad Mini cases are no different. The X-Doria Dash Folio may be just a folio case, but they’ve designed it to be very different looking from the rest with a style all its own.
Design and Usage
The X-Doria Dash Folio is different than the usual folio style case you might be used to. On the inside, instead of the usual method of opening up a flap, and then sliding in your iPad in to what is basically an open pocket, the Dash Folio uses a formed case on the inside. I’m assuming it’s TRU material that is perfectly formed for the iPad Mini and is sewn into the outside cover. I think I actually prefer this type of folio case with the inner formed shell because it holds the iPad Mini in better as well as offering much better protection from drops and accidental bumps.
On the outside, you’ll find a fairly thick, leather like cover that has a unique look to it. Instead of stretching all the way to the edges with this material, it overlaps another layer that is etched with a diamond pattern. It’s a unique look that differentiates it from others. Not only that, it also has an elastic band built in to it that you use to keep the cover shut when not in use. It’s similar to what the DoDo case does with theirs. I like this as it really keeps the cover shut so when it’s in your bag, it doesn’t flap around.
On the side of the cover you’ll find that it is lined with a really soft, microfiber-like material that will keep your screen scratch free and clean. The Dash Folio also works as a stand. If you notice on the inside, there are a bunch of little grooves etched in. Basically the edge of the inner case lines up with these grooves to provide a multitude of incremental viewing angles. That means you can fine tune the angle for comfort.
The last feature that the X-Doria Dash Folio has is the built in magnets on the cover which will work with the iPad Mini’s automatic sleep/wake function. I find however that it doesn’t always line up properly and can sometimes shift positions even with the elastic strap on.
Final Thoughts
Overall, I really like the look and feel of the X-Doria Dash Folio. It might not be quite perfect with the magnet issue, but it’s close. I use cases on my iPad mainly for protection so the magnet issue is just something minor. I’m more impressed with how well made the rest of the case is and how protective it actually is when compared to other folio style cases.
That is really my main issue with other folio cases. I love the way that they look, but they always seem to leave some part of the iPad exposed. I never quite feel 100% confident in how well they would protect if I dropped it.
With the X-Doria Dash Folio, I don’t have to worry as much about denting a corner or scratching a part of the exposed body. It just feel more protective.
The X-Doria Dash Folio is available in 2 different colors – black and brown. Each retail for around $39.99.
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