Esoterism Moat-2 Apple iPad 2/3/4 Shell review

In almost all ways, the Esoterism Moat-2 makes for an outstanding accessory. The high-quality aluminum and carbon fiber design is very durable, it’s Smart Cover compatible, and the carrying handle doubles as a low-angle tablet stand for typing in portrait mode. Unfortunately the price tag will prevent most iPad users from discovering just how great this back protector truly is.

Editor's Rating 

Esoterism touts “precision CNC craftsmanship” is applied in creating the Moat-2. And we can indeed confirm that this is one precisely crafted high-quality back protector case. Upon introduction, the user can’t help but be impressed in several areas. What appears to be a simple plastic frame is actually an extremely lightweight aluminum body with anodized finish. Additionally, a carbon fiber adhesive plate is included for extending protection across the tablet’s entire backside. Fitting the iPad 2 or New iPad 3/4 is rather unorthodox. The bottom section of the frame detaches by unscrewing three tiny screws (screwdriver and two replacement screws are included in the package). Then, the tablet will simply slide into the frame. For us, it was just as easier to snap our iPad 2 firmly inside the casing without going through the process. Conceivably, the hard case is designed this way in order to offer a tighter, clamped-down fit and/or prevent the metal from scratching the tablet edges when inserting/removing. The Moat-2 has all the cutouts for keeping the iPad fully operational and for Smart Cover pairing. Extra function is provided by the built-in dual-purpose hinged handle. This firmly affixed feature not only offers a secure, comfortable grip on the tablet, it also doubles as a low-angle tablet stand for typing modes in portrait format. The only serious problem with the Moat-2: The price. Starting at a whopping $189 suggested retail price, Esoterism seems to have priced out most of the market from acquiring this cool back protector design. It’s unfortunate that the luxury case price limits an otherwise fantastic iPad accessory.

Pros

• Nice strong aluminum material Handle also works as tablet stand Smart Cover compatible

Overall: GREAT

If the iPad owner is willing to shell out the cash for the Esoterism Moat-2, he/she will discover that it’s one top-quality back protector. It’s just getting past that initial investment that’s going to prove difficult for more than a few potential customers.

Features

• Exclusively designed to fit the Apple iPad 2 or New iPad 3/4
• Smart Cover compatible
• Aluminum frame with anodized protective finish
• Precision CNC craftsmanship
• Separate Carbon Fiber back plate adheres to tablet surface
• Cutouts for all tablet buttons, input/output ports and rear-facing camera Handle feature with dual-purpose function
• Handle supports the tablet at 5° angle in portrait format
• Includes mini screwdriver and 2 back-up screws for easy installation
• Lightweight design only 103g / 3.6 oz

Specifications