The $99 Sena Folio for iPad 2 (which is different from the Folio Classic, mind you), was updated recently with a slight re-design. However, unlike the recently re-reviewed Magnetic Florence case, I’ve had quite a hard time finding much that’s different in this third version of the case. I spoke directly with Sena late last […]
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Review Update: Sena Folio for iPad 2 [rev 3]

Sep 13th 2011 by

The $99 Sena Folio for iPad 2 (which is different from the Folio Classic, mind you), was updated recently with a slight re-design. However, unlike the recently re-reviewed Magnetic Florence case, I’ve had quite a hard time finding much that’s different in this third version of the case.

I spoke directly with Sena late last week and they told me that the case has been tightened up in general, and that they’ve taken customer feedback into account. I really am inclined to believe them when they say things have been tightened up (after all, Sena e-mailed me about the changes in the first place – the rev 3 Folio isn’t advertised as being different on the Sena website), but I’ve been over this case with a fine-toothed comb and simply haven’t found any significant or notable changes to share.

The fit on the Folio is still good, but still not perfect. All the buttons and ports are still aligned and usable, and the three stands built into the front cover are one of the coolest selling points I’ve seen on any case. That said, the iPad 2 sits just a little off center, and the bottom-right corner of the device sticks out of the case by 1mm or so. In other words, the same cosmetic fitting problems mentioned in my initial Folio review are present in rev 3.

Minor Differences

The minor differences I’ve noticed between the two Folio cases boil down to:
– the spine on the rev 3 seems to show more wrinkles than the last generation (which remains in near pristine condition)
– the Sena logo on the front cover and along the inside of the case is consistently clearer on the rev 3 case; the inner logo also looks darker, which makes it look a little classier

Card Holder

One thing I explored in a little more depth this time around is the card holder that’s built into the cover of the Folio. The case has space for five cards, but I found the slots a little tight for my liking. In fact, I’d recommend stretching the leather out a bit before inserting anything, since the tight fit can actually peel some lacquer off cards if you’re not careful. The card holder is an interesting idea, but my iPad simply doesn’t seem like the right container for my credit and debit cards. The card slots may be secure, but I don’t want to advertise that I have my plastic and my $500 tablet all inside of one case.

Conclusion

I may not be able to report many differences in the rev 3 Folio, but I still stand by my recommendation overall. The case’s three-stand design, the ability to click the front cover right into the rear of the case, and the beautiful leather still make the Folio stand apart from the competition.

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