Ever since the iPad was released it has been a device that stands out as something to draw and sketch on. For some, a finger is not enough; for them, a stylus is the tool to use. Ten One Design is known for their iOS capable Pogo stylus and now, it has its own iPad case, the Particle case.

The Particle case is made entirely from a rubbery material that spans around the iPad the same way the iPhone bumper does. Regrettably, the case itself has an attraction to hair, dust, and just about any other small particle. Due to this, the case is normally covered with little specks that can possibly scratch the iPad.

Protection-wise, it’s nothing special. It protects the sides of the iPad leaving the back completely exposed. There are four rubber feet that keep it stable enough to write on without having it wobbling back and forth. In short, the case would protect an iPad from small bumps, nothing more.

The Pogo pen is the sole reason someone would buy this case, though it is not something most people will find useful. If you are like the majority of iPad owners who use the device for browsing the web, checking email, and playing the occasional game, you will find absolutely no use for this pen whatsoever. However, if you plan on drawing sketches, handwriting notes, or anything requiring more precision than a finger may have, you might find some usefulness in this pen.

Unfortunately, the stylus itself does not make a large difference in handwriting on iOS devices. There is a slightly noticeable improvement in handwriting and sketches, but nothing overly significant. When you use the pen your hand can not be touching the screen of the iPad as it will register as a touch leading to drawing/clicking where your hand is rather than where the pen is touching.

To be perfectly frank, I don’t like it. The case itself is a dirt magnet and it is nearly impossible to keep clean. The Pogo pen is another story. I feel that if you want to use a Pogo pen with your iPad, put the pen in your pocket and get a better case. The Particle case goes for about $35 from Ten One Design (link).