Gadgetwise Blog: A Mini Waterproof Case for the iPad Mini

The Fre case wraps the iPad mini with a protective bumper that has clear front and back windows.

Lifeproof has made its name building phone and tablet cases that are water, dust, snow and shock proof without adding the armor cladding of many submersible cases. It claims its new Fre case for the iPad mini is its most streamlined yet.

The Fre wraps the iPad mini with a protective bumper that has clear front and back windows, unlike its nuud models, which are waterproof without a front cover. (A nuud for the iPhone 5 is due in mid-July, and for the Samsung Galaxy S III end of July.)

It adds modest bulk and weight to the mini, so you aren’t compromising the little iPad’s foremost charm.

The Fre has optical glass over the camera, to avoid distortion and a latch on the bottom that opens for charging without removing the cover completely.

All the iPad controls can be reached while in the case and there are eyelets for a carrying strap that is included.

Be careful with the earphone hatch, however. When it is open it can allow water to get into the case, unlike some other cases that have a seal so that you can safely listen to music while, say, kayaking.

The cover also has two removable rubber strips, one along each side. One will accommodate a magnetic cover that Lifeproof said it is developing, the other is for an as yet unnamed accessory of some sort. Perhaps a stand.

As with similar Lifeproof covers, it takes a little muscle to get this one on. Lift up the edges of the cover carefully, make sure it is on a flat surface, then press down hard working your way around the edges until it is snapped shut.

The Fre is available from Lifeproof online and Best Buy for $100, and comes in either white and gray, or black.