REVIEW – My iPad is usually attached to the Magic Keyboard, but it’s not really conducive to taking handwritten notes or drawing. I was looking for something that I could put my iPad in that would give me some protection, allow for easier note-taking and drawing, and be slim enough to slip in my bag or carry around. How well did the Nomad Leather Folio for iPad Pro work for me? Amazing! Read on to find out why.
What is it?
The Nomad Leather Folio for iPad Pro is a slim, leather, tri-fold case for Apple’s iPad’s. My review unit is for the 2024 iPad Pro 11-inch M4 model.
What’s included?
Tech Specs
Design and features
I’m unsure if I ever used the word “handsome” to describe a tech accessory, but the Nomad Leather Folio for iPad Pro is absolutely handsome! The review unit that I requested was the dark brown leather folio. Not sure if it’s because most of my accessories are black or a dark color, but the color of this folio seemed to be a throwback to a time when brown leather notepads and briefcases were the style to have!
Besides the classic beauty of the Nomad Leather Folio for iPad Pro, I think the flap that goes around the stylus is a “must-have” and should be on all folio cases. This keeps my Apple Pencil alternative securely attached and I don’t need to look for it at the bottom of my backpack.
The magnetic contact points that keep the iPad Pro attached are very strong and I haven’t had to deal with any misalignment issues or my iPad detaching from the folio.
Assembly, Installation, Setup
There isn’t any setup or assembly. The Nomad Leather Folio for iPad Pro uses magnets for the iPad to attach. The alignment is perfect and strong. The front of the case sports the well-known trifold design, allowing the case to be folded into a triangle that props up the iPad (great for viewing content), or lays down to give a little angle for typing or drawing.
Final thoughts
As I mentioned above, most of the time my iPad is attached to the Magic Keyboard. But I’ve picked up an Apple Pencil alternative to start being more diligent with handwritten note-taking and dabbling in some drawing. I’ve also found that using styles in Lightroom on the iPad to make adjustments is a lot easier and more precise than the trackpad (at least to me). So in those use cases, I’ve found the Nomad Leather Folio for iPad Pro to be perfect.
In meetings, I think the perception of opening up the folio and using my iPad to jot notes is less intimidating than using my iPad in the Magic Keyboard. With the folio laying flat, there isn’t a vertical “barrier” perception and I’ve found people tend to be more receptive. That might have more to do with the demographic that I interact with but still a consideration.
A benefit of leather products is their “wear factor”. Even in the month that I’ve had the Nomad Leather Folio for iPad Pro, it’s picked up some characteristic wear marks from being tossed in my backpack, or stacked on top of or between other laptops or books. I think this adds to that nostalgic look and makes this case truly unique. Every time I’ve pulled out the folio to take notes or share photos, people comment on how nice the case looks!