With iPad mini introducing a brand new set of dimensions for case manufacturers, most have not been as quick as with previous iPad launches to get products on the market. In the first couple of weeks of the product’s launch, only a handful of well-known accessory makers were taking orders, and we unfortunately saw many cheap 7-inch Android cases repurposed and sold as iPad mini compatible.

Apple’s new Lightning connector standard was of course another hurdle, and means there are not nearly as many available third-party docks, keyboards, adapters, etc., as iOS device owners have come to expect.

Below, we have put together a guide to the best of the best iPad mini accessories we could find that are currently available to order and shipping before the holidays:

Docks & Stands:

JBL OnBeat Venue Lighting: One of the only quality speaker docks on the market with built-in Lightning dock and iPad mini compatibility, JBL’s new $199 OnBeat Venue dock also has Bluetooth streaming HARMAN TrueStream™ technology. JBL is also offering $20 off and free shipping until Dec. 28 here.

Dock+: With 16 days left to go in its Kickstarter campaign and its $75,ooo-funding goal already met, Dock+ is now officially supporting iPad mini. A $59 pledge will get you your choice of Dock+ and a lightning cable.

 

Chef Sleeve Cutting Board with iPad stand: Clearly for chefs taking advantage of the many iPad app cookbooks on the App Store, Chef Sleeve sells this dishwasher-safe, heat resistant, cutting board with a built-in iPad mini stand for $70. It’s made in the USA and ready to ship today. The company also has a $35 dishwasher safe iPad stand minus the cutting board, and it is compatible with iPad mini.

Cases & Covers

Belkin Quilted Cover with stand: One of the nicest covers that we’ve had hands-on time with —that also doubles as a stand— comes from Belkin for $39.99. It’s available in a few colors, Black, Ruby, and Cream, and it features a magnetic strap that will also hold the cover back when using the iPad and protective corners that hold the iPad tight to the soft liner.

Mujjo: From its The Originals collection, Mujjo is out with an iPad mini version of its handcrafted, 100-percent wool felt and high-quality leather sleeve. This has been my go-to sleeve for my 15-inch Retina MacBook Pro, and I’ll likely be placing my order for the iPad mini version shortly. It doesn’t provide as much protection from impact as something with a bit more cushioning, but the quality and style make up for what lacks in protection. It sells with brown or white leather accents for €44.95 from Mujjo. 

Speck also has a few low-priced folio style cases worth checking out, too.

If you want something want protection without the bulk, Zagg has its invisibleSHIELD screen protector available for iPad mini for $15. For the device’s backside, Lumaguard has you covered with an assortment of colors and finishes for its $24 and up protective film.

Keyboards:

Zagg Mini 7 and Mini 9: We’ve tried out many of Zagg’s iPad keyboards in the past, including the super-thin backlit keyboard (that is also compatible with iPad mini), and its older models for previous-gen iPads. Like most of the company’s products, Zagg’s products are built to last and usually makes products from its competitors feel like toys in comparison. That’s why we have no problem recommending Zagg’s latest addition: two new Bluetooth keyboard cases dubbed “Mini 7” and “Mini 9“. Both models sell for $89.99, but Zagg also has its Flex and Solo models for $55.99.

Belkin Wireless Keyboard and Case: Belkin is one of the bigger accessory makers with a big selection of iPad mini gear available. While initial supplies sold out quickly, Belkin is still taking orders for its new $80 wireless keyboard case for iPad mini.

iPad mini mod: From the makers of the iPhone5Mod.com products, iPadminimod.com is selling a $39 aluminum keyboard cover.

Cables and Adapters:

Lightning to USB: iPhone5Mod sells a retractable Lightning to USB cable for $10… You can also grab a 3-foot Lightning to USB cable from BoxWave that will charge and sync just like Apple’s cable for $12.50.

Check out our guide to the best Lightning cable accessories here…

Bonus:

Nomad Flex: I’m not a big stylus user, but NomadBrush sent me one of its Nomad Flex styluses with an all-synthetic brush tip made to feel like a real paintbrush, and I’m a big fan. If you’re looking to make the transition from canvas to your iPad, I’d recommend checking out the company’s selection.