Ha ha I've spent wayyyy too much time on researching cases. I posted this on another thread but I think it'd help others more if I post it here instead.
I finally gave in and got the
SwitchEasy Canvas in Brown. Though it may not be the sleekest one out there, it provides a fair amount of protection with not too much bulk. I got it mainly for it's built-in stand feature. Also, I like the fact that although it has the smart sleep/wake feature, there's little chance it can wake in my backpack due to the latch that keeps the cover closed. SwitchEasy just seems to make quality products based on all the video reviews I've seen on youtube. They also come with a free screen protector and port covers.
Cases I looked at and why I didn't get them:
Mareware CEO Hybrid: very nice but about the same thickness as Canvas and less protection. Also no hands on video reviews. Based on video review for the iPad 1 version, it seems to be a solid case. I don't like the handstrap though.
Targus Vuscape: basically a cheap version of Mareware CEO.. didn't like how the bottom two clips don't seem to fit snug.
video review
AYL 5 in 1: similar to Targus but can't stand the fact that they insist on saying its made of carbon fiber when it clearly isn't.
Incase Magazine Jacket: looks cool in pictures but saw the cover was just too flimsy.
video
SwitchEasy Cara: very very sleek/thin yet protective unlike Incase magazine. However, I don't want to have to worry about carrying those stand things. It's also wouldn't fit well in professional environments. I came very close to getting it just for its sleekness though.
see video