# Apple Smart Folio for iPad Pro 13-inch (M4) – Black Review
The Apple Smart Folio for iPad Pro 13-inch (M4) – Black is a tablet case and cover that Apple designed specifically for their latest large-format iPad. At ninety-nine dollars, it sits in the premium end of the protective case market, and after using it for several weeks, I can tell you straight whether this investment makes sense for your workflow. I’m Alex Wolfram, a Marine veteran turned entrepreneur based in Houston, and I don’t waste time or money on products that don’t deliver real value.
First, let’s talk about what you’re getting. The Apple Smart Folio for iPad Pro 13-inch (M4) – Black is a slim, lightweight case that weighs almost nothing and adds minimal bulk to your iPad. The black color is understated and professional, which matters when you’re running a business or attending client meetings. Unlike some third-party options, this case doesn’t feel cheap or plastic-heavy. The microfiber interior feels substantial, and the exterior has a soft touch that doesn’t attract fingerprints like glossy materials do.
Why the Apple Smart Folio for iPad Pro 13-inch (M4) – Black Stands Out
The standout feature of the Apple Smart Folio for iPad Pro 13-inch (M4) – Black is the magnetic hinge system. This isn’t just marketing speak. The case connects magnetically to the iPad, so there’s no awkward positioning or alignment issues. You snap it on, and it stays exactly where you put it. The magnetic closure on the front cover is strong enough that your iPad won’t fall out during transport, but it doesn’t require brute force to open. That’s thoughtful engineering.
The built-in stand positions your iPad at two angles, which is practical for both typing and video watching. I’ve tested this against my recommended products collection, and the stability here outperforms most competitors at this price point. When I’m working at my desk with spreadsheets open, the angle is sharp enough for comfortable viewing without straining my neck. When I switch to watching videos or presentations, the other angle works perfectly. Nothing shifts or collapses unexpectedly.
The Apple Smart Folio for iPad Pro 13-inch (M4) – Black also includes a convenient pocket on the back that holds a stylus or small accessories. I keep a Lightning cable there, and it stays put without adding noticeable bulk. The cutouts for the camera, speakers, and ports are precise. You won’t encounter any gaps or misalignments that let dirt creep into sensitive areas.
Would I Buy the Apple Smart Folio for iPad Pro 13-inch (M4) – Black Again
Here’s the honest assessment: this case does what Apple claims it does. The durability has been solid after weeks of regular use. The microfiber hasn’t worn thin or started peeling. The magnetic connections remain just as strong as day one. I haven’t seen any creasing in the material where the case bends for the stand feature, which is a problem I’ve had with cheaper alternatives.
The primary trade-off is the price. Ninety-nine dollars is a significant investment for a case, and you can find functional alternatives for thirty or forty dollars less. However, if your iPad Pro is worth nearly two thousand dollars, protecting it with a case that actually works without frustration makes financial sense. The Apple Smart Folio for iPad Pro 13-inch (M4) – Black represents reasonable value for that protection level.
Yes, I would absolutely buy the Apple Smart Folio for iPad Pro 13-inch (M4) – Black again. After pushing it through typical daily business use, client calls, and travel, it’s proven reliable. The design choices aren’t arbitrary; they serve a purpose. This case protects your device while remaining practical to use.
If you own a 13-inch iPad Pro with the M4 chip, the Apple Smart Folio for iPad Pro 13-inch (M4) – Black is worth the investment.