Macally has not held back at all when creating the Shellstand2. It is a combination of a hard case, and leather case. Added functionality comes in the form of swivelling, and multiple stand angles. This is a case that works in a wide array of settings due to the sleek elegant look combined with a wicked level of protection.
The inner shell is a hard plastic case in itself holding the iPad 2 snugly. All functions are still open such as volume controls, charge socket, headphone socket and silent button. Inserting the iPad into the case is easy, and it clicks into place. Removing it takes a bit more force, but there is never any sense of the plastic breaking. On the back of the plastic shell a swivelling metal place is fastened onto the back of the leather part of the case. This round plate allows for the entire iPad to swivel. This allows for viewing videos in any landscape mode, or any portrait mode. It also allows for different angles due that can be set to your liking.
The outer shell is a full fledged leather case made from durable black leather. The leather used is premium, but not up to par with the full grain or top grain qualities. As a protective case to be used for two to three years the leather used in the Shellstand2 is good enough. All seams are well made, and I have not found any loose threads. The case extends slightly outside the inner shell giving an extra level of protection.
The inside of the leather shell is made from high friction velvet kind of fabric. This allows for any viewing angle you want, as the friction makes it sturdy. As a stand in landscape mode the Shellstand2 can be used both when typing in your lap, and when viewing movies in bed with the stand next to the pillow.
Holding the case shut is a magnet found on the back of the leather shell. A thick piece of leather goes from the front to the back. The magnet is quite weak, and won’t hold the case closed if the case bounces on the floor. It is however strong enough for everyday usage. With the magnet closed the case can’t lie completely flat on the back, and at times I have mistaken the front with the back due to the fact that I think the latch should have been on the front.
Macally has managed to create a really cool case with the Shellstand2. The combination of leather, and hard plastic gives it a really good level of protection. On a negative note the weight added is considerable. From being a sleek device that goes inside any bag or binder at work it has to be reckoned with as an extra item. Otherwise I have just had my iPad 2 with me just in case I had use for it. With the Shellstand2 I have started to plan ahead to know if it is useful in a meeting, and skipped bringing it if I have felt hesitant.
For most users the Shellstand2 offers more functionality than asked for. Still I really like the fact that it has so many good properties. The stand function combined with great protection is perfect in an office or school setting. What could have further boosted the rating would have been some pattern or other distinguishing style aspect. The branding is limited to a small macally indentation in the leather found on the back and front.
In the end the case comes highly recommended with great value for the price.
Final Rating
Shellstand2 at Macally.com $49.95 Coming soon
