As has been mentioned, the volume rocker on the iPad already allows "quick muting" - holding the volume decrease button decreases the volume linearly for about

As has been mentioned, the volume rocker on the iPad already allows "quick muting" - holding the volume decrease button decreases the volume linearly for about a half-second, then jumps immediately to mute. I have personally always hated this behavior, but the hardware mute switch neither corrects nor exacerbates this problem. Having said that, I strongly prefer using the toggle for muting and placing the orientation lock in the tray: orientation locking is done while the unit is in use, and getting to the tray is fairly easy (double-press Home and swipe right). Muting on the other hand, should ideally be available while the unit is locked.