This week's Best Case Scenario takes a different spin on things: cases that add a bit of extra functionality to your already super duper iOS devices. Need a keyboard for you iPad? No problem. How about one for your iPhone? Stop your bellyachin'--they make those, too. We've even got cases to open beer bottles and carry your credit card. Read on to find out if these kitschy cases are really worth your cash.
Transform your iPad into a netbook of sorts with a little added classic style. These leather folio style cases from Sena fold nicely with your iPad tucked in and includes a built-in Bluetooth keyboard with soft rubber keys. There's also a pop-out tab on the outside of the case that positions into a stand so that your iPad is propped up while you're typing. However, there's no way comfortable way to position the case if you want to lay down and watch a movie. While the fancy leather certainly adds a touch a professionalism to your iPad, you might want to seek out a different keyboard case if you're looking for something casual. (3.5/5 | $149.99)
Physical keyboards are handy to have for your iOS device, and this nifty contraption from ThinkGeek actually has the keyboard tacked on to an iPhone case. It slides out when you need it and stays put when you don't. The keyboard itself is responsive and easy to get a hang of, and it's powered by a built-in rechargeable battery that you'll -- unfortunately -- have to charge separately from the iPhone via a microUSB cord. Also, the addition of a physical keyboard on your iPhone means added bulk and weight, which is apparent when you're holding it up to your ear--especially the few of us that use our iPhones for phone calls (2.5/5 | $39.99)
Yes, this iPhone 4 case opens beer bottles, and it doesn't make such a bad case either. This seemingly odd, but totally useful case protects your phone from falls and helps contribute to the party with the built-in steel bottle opener. While the case is sort of awkward for serious iPhone users (the bulky backing prohibits your phone from laying flat), the party animal in you will appreciate the added convenience of never having to open your own bottles or cans ever again. There's even a app that counts how many bottles you've opened and plays a custom sound. And as a case, it's actually pretty rugged if you plan on bringing your iPhone with you to a few massive keggers. Just be careful not to drop your phone in the beer there, bro. (3/5 | $24.99)
Like the regular Candyshell, the Candyshell Card for iPhone 4 is heavily padded in shock-absorbing rubber to protect your iPhone from the most unexpected falls. If you're going out for a night on the town, stuff your three most essential cards in the back of this case and there's no way they'll fall out while you're stumbling through VIP lines. However. if you're planning on taking this case off when it's not in use, think again--we had such a hard time prying this thing off when we tested it, that the mere thought of putting it back on made us sort of avoid having to ever do so. And compared to other cases + card holder hybrids, this one is too bulky to keep in your pocket for the night. (2.5/5 | $39.95)
