---
product_id: 1306301
title: "SUPCASE for iPad Air 1st Generation Case 9.7 inch 2013, Black"
brand: "supcase"
price: "£34.28"
currency: GBP
in_stock: true
reviews_count: 13
category: "Supcase"
url: https://www.desertcart.co.uk/products/1306301-supcase-for-ipad-air-1st-generation-case-9-7-inch
store_origin: GB
region: United Kingdom
---

# Built-in screen protector Port covers block dust Dual-layer shockproof armor SUPCASE for iPad Air 1st Generation Case 9.7 inch 2013, Black

**Brand:** supcase
**Price:** £34.28
**Availability:** ✅ In Stock

## Summary

> 🛡️ Protect your iPad Air like a pro—style meets military-grade defense!

## Quick Answers

- **What is this?** SUPCASE for iPad Air 1st Generation Case 9.7 inch 2013, Black by supcase
- **How much does it cost?** £34.28 with free shipping
- **Is it available?** Yes, in stock and ready to ship
- **Where can I buy it?** [www.desertcart.co.uk](https://www.desertcart.co.uk/products/1306301-supcase-for-ipad-air-1st-generation-case-9-7-inch)

## Best For

- supcase enthusiasts

## Why This Product

- Trusted supcase brand quality
- Free international shipping included
- Worldwide delivery with tracking
- 15-day hassle-free returns

## Key Features

- • **Dust & Debris Proof:** Precision port covers ensure your device stays clean and fully functional.
- • **Seamless Touch Sensitivity:** Built-in screen protector guards against scratches without sacrificing touchscreen responsiveness.
- • **Military-Grade Drop Defense:** Dual-layer PC + TPU absorbs shocks and bumps, keeping your iPad Air pristine.
- • **Effortless Snap-On Installation:** Advanced front cover design lets you protect your iPad in seconds—no hassle, no tools.
- • **Sporty, Sleek, and Customizable:** Modern profile with multiple color options to match your professional style and stand out.

## Overview

The SUPCASE Beetle Defense Series Case for iPad Air 1st Gen (9.7") combines a tough dual-layer polycarbonate and TPU shell with a built-in screen protector and port covers, delivering military-grade drop protection and dust resistance. Designed for easy snap-on installation and full access to all features, it offers a sporty, customizable look that safeguards your device without compromising usability.

## Description

SUPCASE Beetle Defense Series Hybrid Protective Case provides a stylish but protective shield between your iPad Air and the accidental drop, scrape, or scratch. Made from soft thermoplastic polyurethane and hard polycarbonate materials, SUPCASE Beetle Defense Series Protective Case snaps on for immediate protection. Compatibility: Compatible with iPad Air (1st generation), allowing full access to touchscreen, camera, buttons, and ports. NOT COMPATIBLE with iPad Air 2, iPad 1/2/3/4 and iPad Mini 1st/2nd Generation. Materials: High-grade polycarbonate + thermoplastic polyurethane for shock absorption. Front cover with built-in screen protector prevents scratches without compromising sensitivity. Design: Designed with both protection and looks in mind, SUPCASE Beetle Defense Series Full-body Hybrid Case provides shock absorption and scratch prevention while maintaining a sporty profile. - Advanced Front Cover Design for Easy Installation - Built-in Screen Protector without compromising sensitivity - Advanced dual-layer (PC + TPU) design provides great impact and shock resistance and prevents accidental drop, bumps, and shock - Port Cover keeps out debris and dust - Easy access to all features (buttons, camera, speaker, and ports) - Sporty profile and multiple color options What's in the package? 1x SUPCASE Beetle Defense Case for iPad Air

Review: Better Than Otterbox & Gumdrop for Average Use - This is an awesome case for a great price. Make sure you order the one that is designed for your generation of iPad. The case fits very snugly and is lightweight, but sturdy. The case does not add very much thickness or size to the iPad, yet it seems to provide great protection nonetheless. The screen protector is AWESOME in that you cannot even tell it is there once it is installed! Be careful when installing it, however, as you may trap dust or pet hair under it if you are not careful/quick enough. I didn't notice that I had trapped a speck until after I had completed installation, so I had to take it apart to get rid of the speck. I would not want to do that multiple times. My stepdaughter, who has severe Down Syndrome, had an Otterbox for her previous device at home, which was an iPod, and she was obsessed with peeling the rubber back off of it from the edges. She successfully ruined the Otterbox in less than a day. With the Supcase on her new iPad, she has not been tempted to do this, nor would the tougher/stiffer rubber material or design of the case allow her to do so. The construction and installation is such that it is fairly difficult to disassemble for a child once it is installed. However, after watching the 30 second installation video, any neurotypical adult can probably install and uninstall this case fairly quickly as needed (in less than a minute). I had no trouble with it, anyway. The case DOES NOT need to be removed to charge the iPad (but I charge it with a cord, not with a dock, as we have an iPad Air 2). Furthermore, as a teacher of students with autism, I have seen and worked with Otterboxes and Gumdrops for iPads and this case beats them both in my opinion. I can't attest to its ability to protect the iPad from a determined throw or frequent drops, but it feels very sturdy - at least as sturdy as an Otterbox (if not more sturdy). The Gumdrop may be more your style if you want more throw/drop protection, but this one is plenty good for average use and protection from gunk/spills/the occasional drop, and its screen protector (not to mention size, weight, and style) is much nicer than the Gumdrop's, I think. With this case on, our iPad has been dropped a couple of times from a moderate height (like out of an adult's hands) on wooden flooring. It has also had pop spilled next to/on it. The case has successfully protected the iPad from both kinds of incidents so far, even though I do not believe it is 100% waterproof. This case is worth a try if you aren't looking for bomb-worthy protection - after all, you can always return it to desertcart if you don't like it.
Review: A Life-Saving, Toddler-Proof, Apocalypse-Ready iPad Case - Look, I’m not exaggerating when I say this iPad case is the greatest invention since sliced bread—or, if we're being real, probably since the invention of the iPad itself. As a parent to a toddler who has the subtlety of a sledgehammer and the coordination of a drunk giraffe, this case is not just a “nice to have,” it is a necessity. Without it, I’m fairly sure I’d be living in a house with zero working electronics, a broken heart, and a collection of shattered screens that would make a tech store look like a war zone. Let’s talk about durability for a second. This thing is practically indestructible. I once watched my toddler launch my iPad across the room (because, why not?)—and in that moment, I truly feared for its life. But nope, the iPad case caught it mid-air like a superhero diving to save a falling kitten. It’s like the case has been imbued with the power of 10,000 armored tanks and the resolve of a mother watching a toddler hold a spoon for the first time: "This will end in disaster, but it must be done." My kid is a literal wrecking ball. She has used my iPad as a stepping stool, a teething ring, and—my personal favorite—an emergency flotation device during bath time (don’t ask). But every single time, the case just laughs in the face of danger. It’s like the Chuck Norris of iPad cases. Drops? Not even a scratch. Spills? Please, the case laughs in the face of liquid. The iPad’s screen protector? Untouched. Now let’s talk about grip—because if your toddler is anything like mine, they’ve probably tried to turn the iPad into some sort of slippery slip-n-slide where the device is launching out of their hands with all the grace of a greased watermelon. But this case? Game over. It’s got grips so solid that even my toddler’s little sausage fingers can’t manage to make it slip out of her hands. Seriously, the thing sticks to their hands like it’s a long-lost, superglued friend. She’s like, "I got this, Mom!" And I’m like, “You sure? Because last time, you tried to turn the iPad into a hammer and a chew toy.” But she can’t drop it. She just can’t. This case has powers beyond comprehension. And the design? If Apple had known toddlers were going to get their hands on their devices, they would’ve hired this case to design the entire iPad. The colors are like a toddler’s dream come true—black, bold, and practically begging to be squished, poked, and drooled on. I’ve watched my kid walk around, gripping the iPad like she’s got a million-dollar business deal to close, and honestly? I’ve never been more proud. Lastly, the sound holes. Parents, do you ever find yourself yelling, “PLEASE TURN IT DOWN!” because your child’s game sounds like a symphony of jackhammers? Well, with this case, the audio comes out crystal clear, without the eardrum-shattering echoes that usually follow a game of “How Loud Can We Make the iPad Without Mom Having a Meltdown?” In conclusion, this iPad case isn’t just a “nice” addition to your device; it is the armor your iPad never knew it needed. It’s the guardian angel that protects your technology from your tiny, unpredictable whirlwind of destruction. If you’re a parent to a toddler, you NEED this case in your life—because your iPad's future survival depends on it. Five stars doesn’t even come close to doing this iPad case justice. If I could give it ten thousand stars, I would. And then I would leave a review where I talk about how this case single-handedly saved my sanity, preserved my screen, and won the battle against toddler chaos. BUY THIS CASE NOW, and thank me later. Your iPad (and your sanity) will thank you.

## Features

- Precise cutouts for iPad Air（iPad Air 1st Generation）; Not Compatible with iPad 1/2/3/4 and iPad Mini 1st and 2nd Gen
- Advanced dual layer designed case combined of Polycarbonate hard shell and flexible TPU withstands accidental drop, bumps and shock
- Front cover with built-in screen protector prevents scratches without compromising sensitivity
- Advanced front cover Snap-On design for EASY installation
- All features accessible with case installed; Port covers keep out debris and dust; Sporty design with multi-color options

## Technical Specifications

| Specification | Value |
|---------------|-------|
| ASIN | B00GDHAT3W |
| Additional Features | Flexible, Screen Protector |
| Age Range Description | Kid |
| Best Sellers Rank | #7,739 in Tablet Cases |
| Brand | SUPCASE |
| Built-In Media | case |
| Color | Black |
| Compatible Device Size Maximum | 9.7 inches |
| Compatible Devices | iPad Air |
| Compatible Phone Models | iPad Air |
| Customer Reviews | 4.5 out of 5 stars 6,079 Reviews |
| Enclosure Material | Polycarbonate, Thermoplastic Polyurethane |
| Form Factor | Case,Cover |
| Global Trade Identification Number | 00046144966314 |
| Item Dimensions | 2.76 x 1.57 x 1.97 inches |
| Item Highlight | Built-in Screen Protector, Charge Port Cover, Military-Grade Drop Protection, Anti-Slip, Shockproof, Unicorn Beetle Pro |
| Item Weight | 7.1 ounces |
| Manufacturer | SUPCASE |
| Material | Polycarbonate , Thermoplastic Polyurethane |
| Mfr Part Number | IPAD5-DEFENSE-BKBK1 |
| Model Number | IPAD5-DEFENSE-BKBK1 |
| Pattern | Solid |
| Shell Type | Hard |
| Theme | Modern |
| UPC | 046144966314 046144966307 |
| Warranty Description | 1 |
| Water Resistance Level | Not Water Resistant |

## Product Details

- **Brand:** SUPCASE
- **Color:** Black
- **Compatible Devices:** iPad Air
- **Form Factor:** Case,Cover
- **Shell Type:** Hard

## Images

![SUPCASE for iPad Air 1st Generation Case 9.7 inch 2013, Black - Image 1](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81gd2x-Dn1L.jpg)
![SUPCASE for iPad Air 1st Generation Case 9.7 inch 2013, Black - Image 2](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61LYgihiPgL.jpg)
![SUPCASE for iPad Air 1st Generation Case 9.7 inch 2013, Black - Image 3](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71mAAHIbtpL.jpg)
![SUPCASE for iPad Air 1st Generation Case 9.7 inch 2013, Black - Image 4](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71qggf6N-bL.jpg)
![SUPCASE for iPad Air 1st Generation Case 9.7 inch 2013, Black - Image 5](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/716dYr4Jz+L.jpg)

## Available Options

This product comes in different **Color, Size** options.

## Questions & Answers

**Q: what if i have installed 0.4mm glass protector onto ipad air? is it still fit.**
A: This case does come with a plastic front that covers the screen, so I might call the manufacturer of the glass protector and ask them if "otter box like" cases will fit.  It is a good sturdy case.

**Q: Will it fit an iPad 4**
A: It says plainly in the description that it is not compatible with iPad 1/2/3 or 4.

**Q: I purchased an iPad Air 16GB.  Is this container going to protect it in my carryon luggage?**
A: Actually I will know by this Monday night. I am traveling myself, I am sure it will be fine, I am going to put my I pad Air in my suitcase at the bottom, actually I will put some clothes then my I pad Air then more clothes it should be, I am just trying to protect my I Pad a little more. It is a short flight about two hours and it should be fine, but I guess I will find out Monday night.

**Q: is it water proof**
A: No.

## Customer Reviews

### ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Better Than Otterbox & Gumdrop for Average Use
*by J***R on January 18, 2015*

This is an awesome case for a great price. Make sure you order the one that is designed for your generation of iPad. The case fits very snugly and is lightweight, but sturdy. The case does not add very much thickness or size to the iPad, yet it seems to provide great protection nonetheless. The screen protector is AWESOME in that you cannot even tell it is there once it is installed! Be careful when installing it, however, as you may trap dust or pet hair under it if you are not careful/quick enough. I didn't notice that I had trapped a speck until after I had completed installation, so I had to take it apart to get rid of the speck. I would not want to do that multiple times. My stepdaughter, who has severe Down Syndrome, had an Otterbox for her previous device at home, which was an iPod, and she was obsessed with peeling the rubber back off of it from the edges. She successfully ruined the Otterbox in less than a day. With the Supcase on her new iPad, she has not been tempted to do this, nor would the tougher/stiffer rubber material or design of the case allow her to do so. The construction and installation is such that it is fairly difficult to disassemble for a child once it is installed. However, after watching the 30 second installation video, any neurotypical adult can probably install and uninstall this case fairly quickly as needed (in less than a minute). I had no trouble with it, anyway. The case DOES NOT need to be removed to charge the iPad (but I charge it with a cord, not with a dock, as we have an iPad Air 2). Furthermore, as a teacher of students with autism, I have seen and worked with Otterboxes and Gumdrops for iPads and this case beats them both in my opinion. I can't attest to its ability to protect the iPad from a determined throw or frequent drops, but it feels very sturdy - at least as sturdy as an Otterbox (if not more sturdy). The Gumdrop may be more your style if you want more throw/drop protection, but this one is plenty good for average use and protection from gunk/spills/the occasional drop, and its screen protector (not to mention size, weight, and style) is much nicer than the Gumdrop's, I think. With this case on, our iPad has been dropped a couple of times from a moderate height (like out of an adult's hands) on wooden flooring. It has also had pop spilled next to/on it. The case has successfully protected the iPad from both kinds of incidents so far, even though I do not believe it is 100% waterproof. This case is worth a try if you aren't looking for bomb-worthy protection - after all, you can always return it to Amazon if you don't like it.

### ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ A Life-Saving, Toddler-Proof, Apocalypse-Ready iPad Case
*by C***. on November 9, 2024*

Look, I’m not exaggerating when I say this iPad case is the greatest invention since sliced bread—or, if we're being real, probably since the invention of the iPad itself. As a parent to a toddler who has the subtlety of a sledgehammer and the coordination of a drunk giraffe, this case is not just a “nice to have,” it is a necessity. Without it, I’m fairly sure I’d be living in a house with zero working electronics, a broken heart, and a collection of shattered screens that would make a tech store look like a war zone. Let’s talk about durability for a second. This thing is practically indestructible. I once watched my toddler launch my iPad across the room (because, why not?)—and in that moment, I truly feared for its life. But nope, the iPad case caught it mid-air like a superhero diving to save a falling kitten. It’s like the case has been imbued with the power of 10,000 armored tanks and the resolve of a mother watching a toddler hold a spoon for the first time: "This will end in disaster, but it must be done." My kid is a literal wrecking ball. She has used my iPad as a stepping stool, a teething ring, and—my personal favorite—an emergency flotation device during bath time (don’t ask). But every single time, the case just laughs in the face of danger. It’s like the Chuck Norris of iPad cases. Drops? Not even a scratch. Spills? Please, the case laughs in the face of liquid. The iPad’s screen protector? Untouched. Now let’s talk about grip—because if your toddler is anything like mine, they’ve probably tried to turn the iPad into some sort of slippery slip-n-slide where the device is launching out of their hands with all the grace of a greased watermelon. But this case? Game over. It’s got grips so solid that even my toddler’s little sausage fingers can’t manage to make it slip out of her hands. Seriously, the thing sticks to their hands like it’s a long-lost, superglued friend. She’s like, "I got this, Mom!" And I’m like, “You sure? Because last time, you tried to turn the iPad into a hammer and a chew toy.” But she can’t drop it. She just can’t. This case has powers beyond comprehension. And the design? If Apple had known toddlers were going to get their hands on their devices, they would’ve hired this case to design the entire iPad. The colors are like a toddler’s dream come true—black, bold, and practically begging to be squished, poked, and drooled on. I’ve watched my kid walk around, gripping the iPad like she’s got a million-dollar business deal to close, and honestly? I’ve never been more proud. Lastly, the sound holes. Parents, do you ever find yourself yelling, “PLEASE TURN IT DOWN!” because your child’s game sounds like a symphony of jackhammers? Well, with this case, the audio comes out crystal clear, without the eardrum-shattering echoes that usually follow a game of “How Loud Can We Make the iPad Without Mom Having a Meltdown?” In conclusion, this iPad case isn’t just a “nice” addition to your device; it is the armor your iPad never knew it needed. It’s the guardian angel that protects your technology from your tiny, unpredictable whirlwind of destruction. If you’re a parent to a toddler, you NEED this case in your life—because your iPad's future survival depends on it. Five stars doesn’t even come close to doing this iPad case justice. If I could give it ten thousand stars, I would. And then I would leave a review where I talk about how this case single-handedly saved my sanity, preserved my screen, and won the battle against toddler chaos. BUY THIS CASE NOW, and thank me later. Your iPad (and your sanity) will thank you.

### ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Speaking as a long-time OtterBox fan, I have to admit I like this case better
*by G***M on May 27, 2015*

I have been an Otter Box fan for years, but have become weary of the high prices they demand. So--I was a bit dubious when considering this lower-cost option. However, those doubts were assuaged when I read the reviews, and the videos about this cover. Even though there are some negative things said about this product, you have to figure that many of them are misunderstandings, or improper installation. Some folks just complain to complain, I guess. Regardless of the negative-ninnies, I ordered one for my new iPad Air anyway. When I received this unit I was not disappointed at all. After following the installation instruction video provided by the manufacturer, I had absolutely NO PROBLEM installing this case at all. It took me about one minute. All the ports and cutouts for the various connections were absolutely PERFECT. The case is very solid, good-looking, and fits very well: it fits snugly and provides excellent protection--at HALF the cost of an Otter Box. The screen protector is, in my opinion, better than the ones provided by Otter Box. It is pristine in clarity and the iPad works perfectly--to the point of seemingly not being there at all. The home button and volume buttons work like nothing is there, as well. The ports open easily and seal tight. The camera (s) and speakers are absolutely unhindered also. One heads-up, though: be sure to SLIDE your device into this case, and be sure to check the "silent" slider, as it will be pushed into the mute position while installing. Watch the videos provided by other reviewers, and most definitely watch the manufacturers video--don't just assume you know how to install this case because it IS different than the others, in-that it is not a silicone inside that fits into the pvc outer shell. The device slides into the front piece containing the screen saver, and then that fits into the back, which has the silicone molded into the back. I don't regret this purchase in any way. While it IS different from the Otter Box, it is an excellent case. I do miss the kickstand, though. That is my only criticism of this product.

## Frequently Bought Together

- SUPCASE for iPad Air 1st Generation Case with Screen Protector, [Military-Grade Protection] [Anti-Scratch] Heavy Duty Full-Body Rugged Protective Tablet Case Cover for Apple iPad Air 1 9.7 Inch, Black
- JETech Screen Protector for iPad (9.7-Inch, 2018/2017 Model, 6th/5th Generation), iPad Air 1, iPad Air 2, iPad Pro 9.7-Inch, Tempered Glass Film

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*Product available on Desertcart United Kingdom*
*Store origin: GB*
*Last updated: 2026-09-28*