Apple iPad cases with a twist

When it comes to accessories, the Apple iPad is the equivalent of a spoiled child. As one of the most popular tablets on the market -- heck, in the existence of modern day tablets -- the case options for the iPad Air and Mini are vast and varied.

We've rounded up a few cases with refreshing design tweaks to spruce up your current iPad or help protect your new purchase. They might not all be your cup of tea, but they offer a few fresh features to liven up your case options.

The Belkin LapStand ($50, £45, AU$60) looks like a standard folio-type cover, but a specific design modification makes it one of the comfiest cases to use on your lap. On one edge of the tablet there's a circle made from a neoprene-like fabric that conforms to the shape of your knee when folded. It's comfy to use and alleviates a design problem I didn't even know tablet cases suffered from.

On the inside, it secures the tablet with bendable plastic corners that hold the iPad Air snug-like-a-bug. There's also a stretchable band to wrap around the front and keep the case closed. Take a closer look at the Belkin LapStand case here.

The Pong Case ($130, available worldwide for about £80 or AU$140, converted) looks like the simplest case in this slideshow, but it packs some performance surprises. The case is outfitted with technology that's supposed to help increase cell reception, speed, and range, all while protecting you from evil cell radiation.

The front cover can fold into a variety of positions and sturdily stays put with the help of built-in magnets. It's not the most rugged build, but it aptly protects the screen when closed. Check out the Pong case here.

The Favi Swivel multifunctional Bluetooth keyboard case ($80, converted about £50, AU$85) comes in the perfect shade, if you love gold. It features a removable back plate that clips into the stand and can recline into various positions.

The tablet can swivel all the way back in order to take advantage of the iPad Air's great viewing angles, however, the case's plastic build and stiff hinges dissuades from adjusting the slate too much. Check out the Favi case here.

The durable Belkin Apex case for the iPad Mini ($70, £30) is a great option for butter-finger individuals. Not only is the texture of the case comfortably grippy, it can withstand a 6-foot (1.8-meter) drop and the plastic frame that secures the iPad in the case creates insulating air pockets to help absorb the shock of a fall.

The front cover attaches with a magnet on the back of the tablet and can be used as a stand both in portrait and landscape orientation. In addition, the multi-angle abilities of the stand and auto-wake function of the cover contribute in making the Belkin Apex 360 case a durable, yet useful tablet case.