My favorite of all the NewerTech iPad peripherals is the NewerTech NuGuard Soft Silicone Protective Case. The $17.99 case is available in six colors and offers good protection for the iPad with its silicone cushions. And it does so without bulking up the iPad. It's also removable, which is good as I found it easier to connect the iPad to the Apple Keyboard and Dock with the NuGard removed. The crowning touch is the ergonomically designed side grooves that improve your grip of the Apple device.

I can't vouch for its ability in this regard, but NewerTech says the NuGuard keeps you virus-free as its silicone material doesn't support microbiological growth. The NuGuard Soft case is an excellent example of a simple product with a simple goal that accomplishes that goal well. Rating: 10 out of 10

I was less enamored of the $24.99 NuGuard Hard Shell Polycarbonate Case, which is a tougher protective shell available in clear or bycast black leather. The transparent polycarbonate shell offers more impact resistance than acrylic shells for maximum protection against scratches, dirt, and oils while showing off the gorgeous looks of your iPad. It's a snap-on case that installs without any tools.

With it on, you have easy access to all ports and controls, including the dock connector port, headphone jack, Micro SIM card tray, volume, screen rotation lock, power and home buttons. The NuGuard Hard Shell does what it promises. However, I prefer the soft case because it offers protection plus enhanced grip. Rating: 7 out of 10.