Mapi Orion

The Mapi Orion is an interesting case that also happens to be rather expensive, costing a whopping $160. What makes it worth $160? Well, I'm not sure it is, but it is pretty unique and is hand-crafted from very high-quality leather, with a "creased" (and hinged) cover design that enables you to prop your iPad up in both a vertical or horizontal position. It's also pretty light, which is nice.

With most covers you open the case as if you're opening a book. But what makes the Orion unique is that the cover fits on the case vertically -- it's like you're folding back a page on a legal notepad or reporter's notebook when you open it. Some may find that weird at first but you do get used to it over time.

The case is certainly eye-catching -- and I liked the design -- but, as I said, the price tag's a little steep, so hopefully this one will go on sale. It's available in black, brown, red, tan, and white.

Price: $160