As we step into 2024, several new iPad cages have hit the market, each offering unique features tailored to the needs of photography and digital imaging professionals. In this blog post, we'll explore the top three iPad cages of the year, focusing on their standout characteristics and the benefits they bring to the table. Whether you're capturing stunning visuals, managing digital assets, or overseeing complex post-production workflows, these iPad cages are designed to elevate your tablet experience to new heights.

Join us as we delve into the features, benefits, and applications of the leading iPad cages of 2024, starting with the innovative Accsoon Power Cage for iPad 12.9". Discover how these top contenders can enhance your workflow, provide superior protection, and open up a world of possibilities for your iPad in the realm of photography and digital imaging. Let's get started!

1. xLamina iPad Plate
Designed with precision, the xLamina stands at the forefront of iPad mounting solutions for 2024. This meticulously engineered aluminium alloy plate is lightweight yet incredibly durable, offering unmatched versatility for professionals in photography, digital imaging, and post-production.

Key Features:

• Lightweight & Durable: At just 360g, the xLamina is significantly lighter than the Mule Carts iPad Pro Plate (which is considerably heavier, making it less ideal for travel). Despite its light weight, the black anodized aluminium alloy and bead-blasted finish offer exceptional durability and a sleek, professional look.
• NATO Rails & Mounting Options: The xLamina offers multiple mounting options, including VESA, NATO rail, 3/8"-16, and 1/4"-20 threads, providing unparalleled flexibility for attaching accessories like magic arms, v-mount batteries, and wireless transmitters. The four integrated NATO rails and cable management offer more advanced configurations than the Accsoon Power Cage.
• Handle Compatibility & Hood Adapter: Unlike other cages, the xLamina’s hood adapter doubles as NATO rails, allowing for easy handle attachment, adding further customisation potential.  Read our handle guide for more information on NATO rail side handles.
• Carbon Shady Compatibility: Fully compatible with the Carbon Shady sunshade, providing a seamless solution for outdoor shoots by reducing glare.  The Carbon Shady not only is a fully 4 sided shade, but also acts as a strong protecting enclosure that protects the iPad.

Advantages of the xLamina:

• Weight: The xLamina’s 360g construction makes it lighter and easier to transport compared to the Mule Carts iPad Pro Plate, which is much bulkier and better suited for fixed setups.
• Ergonomics & Protection: While the Accsoon Power Cage provides robust protection and includes an integrated battery pack, it sacrifices some flexibility and adds more weight. The xLamina strikes a perfect balance between protection and mobility, without the need for a bulky power pack.
• Accessory Compatibility: The xLamina’s built-in NATO rails and integrated cable management outshine the Armor X Rugged Case, which is primarily designed for extreme conditions but lacks modularity for professional use on set.

In Conclusion:
If you’re looking for the perfect balance between weight, flexibility, and functionality, the xLamina stands as the best iPad cage of 2024. Whether you’re on a professional shoot, managing digital assets on-site, or working in post-production, the xLamina will elevate your workflow while keeping your iPad protected and versatile.

2. Accsoon Power Cage for iPad 12.9"

The Accsoon Power Cage is a game-changer for photographers and digital imaging professionals who rely heavily on their iPads during shoots and post-production processes. This innovative cage is designed to provide robust protection and expanded functionality, making it a must-have accessory for any serious professional.

Key Features:

• Enhanced Protection: Constructed from high-quality materials, the Accsoon Power Cage offers superior protection against drops, bumps, and scratches, ensuring your iPad remains safe in demanding environments.

• Integrated Power Solutions: One of its standout features is the integrated battery pack, which keeps your iPad charged throughout long shooting sessions. This is especially useful for photographers and DITs who need uninterrupted power.

• Multiple Mounting Options: The cage comes with multiple mounting points for attaching accessories such as microphones, lights, and external monitors, making it a versatile tool for on-set use.

• Ergonomic Design: Despite its rugged build, the cage is ergonomically designed for a comfortable grip, ensuring ease of use during extended periods.

To enhance the functionality of your Accsoon Power Cage even further, consider adding a sunshade (sun hood). This accessory is essential for outdoor shoots, helping to reduce glare and improve screen visibility in bright conditions. Check out our high-quality sunshade here.

Why You Need the Sunshade:

• Improved Visibility: Reduces glare and reflections, making it easier to see your screen in bright sunlight.

• Easy Installation: Designed to fit perfectly with the Accsoon Power Cage, ensuring a seamless setup.

• Durable Material: Made from robust carbon fiber that withstand the elements, providing long-lasting performance and additional protection for the iPad.

Whether you're capturing footage on set or reviewing images in post-production, the Accsoon Power Cage, paired with our Carbon Shady v1.0 sunshade, enhances your iPad’s functionality and durability, making it an essential addition to your toolkit.

Price for Cage: €100 - €135 on Amazon

Price for the Sunshade: €140 on our shop

TOTAL PRICE €240 - €275

3. Mule Carts iPad Pro Plate

The Mule Carts iPad Pro Plate is designed with the professional photographer and digi tech in mind. Known for its solid construction and compatibility with various mounting systems, this iPad cage is ideal for those who need a reliable and adaptable solution for their digital workflow.

Key Features:

• Durable Construction: Built from high-grade aluminum, the Mule Carts iPad Pro Plate provides excellent protection while maintaining a lightweight profile. It ensures your iPad can withstand the rigors of on-location shoots.

• Versatile Mounting Options: The Pro Plate is designed with multiple threaded holes, allowing for versatile mounting options on tripods, stands, and other support systems. This flexibility is crucial for photographers who need stable setups.

• Accessory Integration: It offers ample space for attaching essential accessories such as card readers, SSDs, and other peripherals, streamlining your workflow by keeping all necessary tools within reach.

• Custom Fit: Specifically designed to fit the iPad Pro, this cage provides secure and snug housing, ensuring that all ports and buttons remain easily accessible.

The Mule Carts iPad Pro Plate is perfect for professionals who require a robust and adaptable mounting solution for their iPad, enhancing their productivity and efficiency on set.

The downside to the Mule Carts plate is the weight. We wouldn’t recommend it for travelling or those jobs where you have to walk long distances. Furthermore, the sunshade that’s included is does not actually shield very much from the sun. But Mule has made a new shade you can add at an additional cost.

Price for the Mule plate: €453

Price for the Mule shade: €70

TOTAL PRICE: €523

4. Armor X Rugged Case

The Armor X Rugged Case is the go-to choice for professionals seeking maximum protection for their iPad. This cage is built to withstand the toughest conditions, making it ideal for outdoor shoots and challenging environments.

Key Features:

• Extreme Durability: Made from military-grade materials, the Armor X Rugged Case offers unparalleled protection against shocks, drops, and extreme weather conditions, ensuring your iPad remains safe no matter where you are.

• Modular Design: The case features a modular design with interchangeable mounts and accessories, allowing you to customize it to fit your specific needs. Whether you need to attach it to a drone, bike, or tripod, the Armor X can handle it.

• Water and Dust Resistance: With an IP68 rating, this case provides complete protection against dust and water, making it perfect for use in harsh outdoor environments.

• Enhanced Grip: The rugged texture and ergonomic design provide a secure grip, reducing the risk of accidental drops during use.

For photographers and DITs working in extreme conditions, the Armor X Rugged Case offers the ultimate in protection and versatility, ensuring your iPad can withstand the challenges of any shoot.

There are a few sunshade options available on amazon, but we wouldn’t recommend them, making this case our least favourite choice. However, if water proof is what you’re looking for, then this is the cage for you. Our friend Laimonas at LS-DIGI manufactures a mount for it.

Price for case: €95

Price for sunshade: €40 - €60

Each of these top three iPad cages of 2024 brings unique features and benefits to the table, catering to the specific needs of photographers, digi techs, and DITs. By choosing the right cage for your iPad, you can enhance your workflow, protect your device, and unlock new possibilities in your digital imaging endeavors.