I really love the Apple case. It is really "grippy" and can be used to sit the iPad at a number of different angles.. I have tried taking it out but it is much better to use in the case. And it is very thin and light. I dont like the bigger cases although today I ordered a Waterfield Designs Exo case to put the iPad, still in its Apple case, into while traveling, and allow it to be carried on a shoulder strap.