This is Signal vs. Noise, a weblog by 37signals about entrepreneurship, design, experience, simplicity, constraints, pop culture, our products, products we like, and more. Established 1999 in Chicago.

Tumble 31 Jul 06

The Timbuk2 Laptop Bag is a very good choice. For being very minimalist, check out the Eagle Creek Bag.

Chris 31 Jul 06

It doesn’t get much better than Waterfield. But it doesn’t get much more expensive either.

http://www.sfbags.com/products/cargo/cargo.htm

Jay Contonio 31 Jul 06

I’ve always liked Booq bags.

Garrett Dimon 31 Jul 06

I second the Waterfield recommendation. (http://www.sfbags.com)

Scott 31 Jul 06

I’m partial to the Blurr BTR Note. The design is a little different, and it’s light but durable.

My other choice is the Kilobyte Computer Shoulder Bag.

petrilli 31 Jul 06

I’d “third” the Waterfield bag recommendation. While they aren’t the cheapest, I do think they are the best made. My Cosmo bag has seen a few hundred thousand miles with nary a scratch.

Upside is that most people don’t know who they are, so you always have a different bag than everyone else around. Even if you go with someone else’s bag, the Sleeves are awesome.

Paul Mansour 31 Jul 06

Beautiful ballistic nylon and leather. No one will think you are carrying a laptop. Not that much more expensive than the peice of junk Tumi bag I previously used.

http://www.glaserdesigns.com/Assets/BriefcasePages/B17127FLMBDealbag.html

Eric Puidokas 31 Jul 06

I love my Brenthaven Metro (http://www.brenthaven.com/catalog-metro-black.html). It fits my 15” macbook pro perfectly.

For Apple computers, I’d definitely go Brenthaven.

rob 31 Jul 06

At the upper end there isn’t much better, in my mind, then www.tombihn.com. If you don’t order laptop bag there then at least get the “Snake Charmer” bag to organize chargers, LAN cables, etc.

For a lower price option the Targus makes some very comfortable bags.

David Appleyard 31 Jul 06

I’m partial to Crumpler bags/sleeves:

http://www.crumpler.com.au/Cart/index.php?catId=5

Enjoy!

Eric Coleman 31 Jul 06

I’ll second the Timbuk2 messenger bag… I have 2 of them, and I friggin love ‘em ;)

Michael Egan 31 Jul 06

My ace day pack is great for me. I usually bike to work. My laptop and iPod stay protected (and scratch free from the linings) and the pockets on the side provide easy access to extra water bottles when the temperature climbs. It’s big enough for an iBook/Macbook 15”, a change of clothes and all the usual peripherals.

Luke 31 Jul 06

I know they present a completely different image and their use is quite unlike a bag, but I have really enjoyed the utility of my laptop backpack for trips and other adventures.

Targus 16” Sport Deluxe Notebook Backpack

Kaan 31 Jul 06

I’ve had the same Brenthaven bag for 4 years, and completely love it. I looked through their website (www.brenthaven.com) to find mine, but it looks like they’ve changed the line through the years. My bag has safely carried several 15” Macs over the years, and has plenty of little pockets for other stuff, too. The build quality is excellent and the shoulder pad is super comfortable, too.

If I had to buy another bag today, I would absolutely look at getting another Brenthaven (although I would also look at Waterfield, since I’ve heard great things about them).

Dave Morin 31 Jul 06

Less is more.

Acme Made

The Designer Slim

Best bag on the market, hands down. Suberb design, attention to detail. Tuxedo lining, ski parka zippers. Can’t go wrong.

Zoe 31 Jul 06

Another vote for Booq here.

rob 31 Jul 06

At the upper end there isn’t much better, in my mind, then www.tombihn.com. If you don’t order laptop bag there then at least get the “Snake Charmer” bag to organize chargers, LAN cables, etc.

For a lower price option the Targus makes some very comfortable bags.

David Nemesis 31 Jul 06

I second the support for the Timbuk2 laptop bag — I just bought a special brown wool version they did for Spring and it’s been pretty sweet.

Jordan Berkowitz 31 Jul 06

I guess I have to be the first to not recomend the Waterfield bags. I do agree that the construction is quite nice, but the bag seemed to be overbuilt. I currently am eyeing the Cashmere Blazer at http://www.crumplerbags.com/ … it has great storage and beautiful divider layout.

Beyond that … their website is a trip.

Jonathan Lipps 31 Jul 06

I second the Crumpler bags. Perfect for cycling with, even in rain. Heavily padded, great materials, plenty of pockets. My 17” powerbook bag will last forever. Most importantly, the manufacturer has an awesome sense of humor.

Kevin 31 Jul 06

I too am a minimalist, so my case of choice is this Incase Neoprene Sleeve in a lovely shade of orange.

Jordan Berkowitz 31 Jul 06

I guess I have to be the first to not recomend the Waterfield bags. I do agree that the construction is quite nice, but the bag seemed to be overbuilt. I currently am eyeing the Cashmere Blazer at http://www.crumplerbags.com/ … it has great storage and beautiful divider layout.

Beyond that … their website is a trip.

Eric Coleman 31 Jul 06

I’ll second the Timbuk2 messenger bag… I have 2 of them, and I friggin love ‘em ;)

Aaron Blohowiak 31 Jul 06

Go custom.

Get a chrome http://www.chromebags.com or reload http://www.reloadbags.com bag. They will do whatever design you can imagine. Made very well.

Christopher Bowers 31 Jul 06

I use the Crumpler Keystone. It is the same as the The Salary Sacrifice except it has an insert for my camera gear.

http://www.crumpler.com.au/Cart/index.php?catId=5

huphtur 31 Jul 06

Duh, Incase ofcourse.

James 31 Jul 06

Radtech has some nice bags that fit all sizes of notebooks.

Glen Barnes 31 Jul 06

I’d go with the STM Bags out of Australia http://www.stmbags.com.au/home

I have the medium curve bag which rocks as a shoulder bag.

brad 31 Jul 06

Patagonia’s Lightwire Pack or the Lightwire Tote, available on the same page.

I have a Tom Bihn laptop bag, but I don’t travel with it anymore because it screams “laptop inside.” I prefer to use a daypack that has a laptop compartment inside.

Another good option (and half the price of Patagonia’s packs) is MEC’s Carry-on Travel Pack which can be used as a shoulder bag or backpack and works nicely as a briefcase-plus-travel bag when you really want to carry just one item for a few days of travel.

Jaakko Knuutila 31 Jul 06

I’ve been using Tucano sleeves with success. They fit like a glove and the neatest part is that you can put your laptop into any bag after that.

michele 31 Jul 06

What about a stylish one for ladies? I’ve been looking forever and have not found anything. Any thoughts?

Jon Bauerle 31 Jul 06

Made by, and for, computer users. Almost perfect, imho.

http://us.kensington.com/html/4656.html

Chad 31 Jul 06

A Vyper + a bag from Fossil (can’t find mine on their site).

I’m always let down by the aesthetics of typical laptop bags.

richard 31 Jul 06

I just picked the Kensington Contour Cargo Messenger Bag up from Amazon a few days back for my MacBook Pro, and it’s excellent, with all of its pockets for holding all of my gadgets, and a built in sleeve for my laptop… most of all, though, it’s comfortable as hell.

I’m carrying the same amount of stuff I had in my old bag, and this one seems several pounds lighter. Kensington’s Contour series is incredibly comfortable to walk around with.. they’ve won some awards recently for the entire line… supposed to be better for your back.

Kaan 31 Jul 06

I’ve had the same Brenthaven bag for 4 years, and completely love it. I looked through their website (www.brenthaven.com) to find mine, but it looks like they’ve changed the line through the years. My bag has safely carried several 15” Macs over the years, and has plenty of little pockets for other stuff, too. The build quality is excellent and the shoulder pad is super comfortable, too.

If I had to buy another bag today, I would absolutely look at getting another Brenthaven (although I would also look at Waterfield, since I’ve heard great things about them).

Anonymous Coward 31 Jul 06

Get a neoprene sleeve (I have an ugly one from Crumpler) and buy a really nive breifcase with some class. I have a Leonard Heyden classic breifcase. My girlfriend has one of these: http://www.leonhard-heyden.com/en/php/ausgabe.php?option=serie&wert=DIE_KUH_ELSA which is absolutely gorgeous.

Laptop bags are ugly. Get a real bag.

richard 31 Jul 06

Whoops, forgot to link the bag up.

Anon 31 Jul 06

www.mezzi.com

(get them for as cheap as $20) on eBay

A variety of sizes and finishes.

Lightweight, stylish, customizable foam inserts (!).

Italian.

Who could ask for anything more?

David Barrett 31 Jul 06

I know less is supposed to be more, but surely the size of the laptop is a pretty crucial factor here?

monki 31 Jul 06

Having recently purchased a macbook I also took the bag buying plunge. I opted for a
Roadwired Skooba Satchel, and I have been quite happy with it. Plenty of compartments for my various electronic goodies (many of which are currently going unused, but nice to know they are there). The air squares make me feel comfortable about the continued safety of the laptop(they are sort of like permanent bubble-wrap), and more air squares on the shoulder strap keeps it feeling light and comfy.

Geoff 31 Jul 06

I use this Tumi backpack: http://www.tumi.com/backpacks_messengers/backpacks/category_search/norfolk_convertible_computer_messenger_backpack/product_detail/index.cfm?modelid=66865

Works as a backpack and a briefcase. Definitely wouldn’t go backpacking with it, but great in airports, traveling, etc.

Jonathan Lipps 31 Jul 06

I second the Crumpler bags. Perfect for cycling with, even in rain. Heavily padded, great materials, plenty of pockets. My 17” powerbook bag will last forever. Most importantly, the manufacturer has an awesome sense of humor.

monki 31 Jul 06

Having recently purchased a macbook I also took the bag buying plunge. I opted for a
Roadwired Skooba Satchel, and I have been quite happy with it. Plenty of compartments for my various electronic goodies (many of which are currently going unused, but nice to know they are there). The air squares make me feel comfortable about the continued safety of the laptop(they are sort of like permanent bubble-wrap), and more air squares on the shoulder strap keeps it feeling light and comfy. So overall, I’ve been rather happy with it.

Kenzie 31 Jul 06

I love my Crumpler:
http://www.crumpler.ca/Cart/index.php?catId=5

But next time I’m getting the Booq Vyper:
http://www.booqbags.com/Detail.bok?no=1406

Josh 31 Jul 06

Tom Bihn. http://www.tombihn.com/

I use a Brain Cell, which is a minimalist sleeve that fits nicely into other bags. Very flexible.

And the quality is outstanding.

Alexandre Simard 31 Jul 06

What about a stylish one for ladies?

Knomo has ladies bags too.

Brandon Eley 31 Jul 06

I’m really liking Booq Bags:
http://www.booqbags.com

I’m especially looking forward to getting my hands on the Folee XL System for my MacBook Pro:
http://www.booqbags.com/Detail.bok?no=444

Anon 31 Jul 06

www.mezzi.com

(get them for as cheap as $20) on eBay

A variety of sizes and finishes.

Lightweight, stylish, customizable foam inserts (!).

Italian.

Who could ask for anything more?

Drew Pickard 31 Jul 06

I’ve just narrowed it down to:
http://www.acmemade.com/theclyde.html

Gonna go check one out today to make sure.

here’s a motherload forum post with a lot of collected links to good bags:
http://forums.macnn.com/showthread.php?t=178702

optimus 31 Jul 06

Acme Made highly recommended, though not for people who tote every peripheral and gadget along with their lappy.

The felt/flannel charcoal one is gorgeous.

AndrewH 31 Jul 06

c’mon now give it up for the Flightable
http://www.flightable.com/

the most useless case ever.

David Barrett 31 Jul 06

I know less is supposed to be more, but surely the size of the laptop is a pretty crucial factor here?

Anon 31 Jul 06

www.mezzi.com

(get them for as cheap as $20) on eBay

A variety of sizes and finishes.

Lightweight, stylish, customizable foam inserts (!).

Italian.

Who could ask for anything more?

Adam Spooner 31 Jul 06

I concur - booq bags

Pedro Belo 31 Jul 06

any foofbag owner?

ok, it’s not a case, but anyways…

Anon 31 Jul 06

www.mezzi.com

(get them for as cheap as $20) on eBay

A variety of sizes and finishes.

Lightweight, stylish, customizable foam inserts (!).

Italian.

Who could ask for anything more?

MikeInAZ 31 Jul 06

http://www.bumbakpaks.com/hamptons.html

I have the khaki one and it’s perfect for my PowerBook. There are a lot of useful zippers and pockets for my junk and paper files.

For added protection I have the Vyper case/sleeve from Booq.
http://www.booqbags.com/Search.bok?category=Sleeves

Griff 31 Jul 06

I like Tumi bags and had a great expandable leather briefcase that was doing great after nine years up until my rental car was broken in Toronto and it was stolen (with laptop, iPod, personal mobile phone, and my HP15C RPN calculator…so sad). I have been shopping myself and while I still like the look of Tumi, I would have to say that Briggs & Riley have them beat on pure utility (lots of nice pockets and features.

D Zine 31 Jul 06

I kept my Powerbook in a friend’s Jack Spade messenger bag on a flight back from San Fran and it held up great. Comfortable, well designed; Powerbook, iPod and my Moleskin fit like a glove.

I think only their ‘Tech Briefcase’ is designed for laptops but if you don’t toss around your laptop like a mad man, you really don’t need crazy amounts of padding in your bag.

http://www.jackspade.com/

Jeff 31 Jul 06

I’ve had this one for about a year. My Macbook Pro fits with tons of room to spare, and plenty of room for really important papers and other such nonsense.

http://www.targus.com/us/product_details.asp?sku=TCG200

The messenger style bag is so much easier to deal with, and it’s very light weight and durable.

Griff 31 Jul 06

I like Tumi bags and had a great expandable leather briefcase that was doing great after nine years up until my rental car was broken in Toronto and it was stolen (with laptop, iPod, personal mobile phone, and my HP15C RPN calculator…so sad). I have been shopping myself and while I still like the look of Tumi, I would have to say that Briggs & Riley have them beat on pure utility (lots of nice pockets and features.

Anonym 31 Jul 06

www.mezzi.com

(get them for as cheap as $20) on eBay

A variety of sizes and finishes.

Lightweight, stylish, customizable foam inserts (!).

Italian.

Who could ask for anything more?

OC Runner 31 Jul 06

Had great success with anything from Briggs-Riley. Best warranty on the market.

http://www.briggs-riley.com/businesscases/nonrolling/233_verticalcomputerbriefbackpack.asp#

Anonym 31 Jul 06

www.mezzi.com

(get them for as cheap as $20) on eBay

A variety of sizes and finishes.

Lightweight, stylish, customizable foam inserts (!).

Italian.

Who could ask for anything more?

Jeff 31 Jul 06

I’ve had this one for about a year. My Macbook Pro fits with tons of room to spare, and plenty of room for really important papers and other such nonsense.

http://www.targus.com/us/product_details.asp?sku=TCG200

The messenger style bag is so much easier to deal with, and it’s very light weight and durable.

Geoff DiMasi 31 Jul 06

Surprised noone mentioned Spire.

Not in love with their bags, but I love their boots.

OC Runner 31 Jul 06

Had great success with anything from Briggs-Riley. Best warranty on the market.

http://www.briggs-riley.com/businesscases/nonrolling/233_verticalcomputerbriefbackpack.asp#

Anonym 31 Jul 06

www.mezzi.com

(get them for as cheap as $20) on eBay

A variety of sizes and finishes.

Lightweight, stylish, customizable foam inserts (!).

Italian.

Who could ask for anything more?

Neils 31 Jul 06

Timbuk2!!

AndrewH 31 Jul 06

c’mon now give it up for the Flightable
http://www.flightable.com/

the most useless case ever.

Chris H 31 Jul 06

www.ebags.com

Has a lot of the brand names from above, plus a pretty useful “Laptop Bag/Case Finder” that let’s you find all bags that will fit your particular laptop:

http://www.ebags.com/info/laptop_center/index.cfm?fuseaction=laptop_center

The finder was very useful to me when looking for a bag that would fit my 17” PowerBook. The one I got (although not the prettiest bag in the world) was from RoadWired:

www.roadwired.com

Anonym 31 Jul 06

Sorry for the multiple posts - the MT comment system kept giving me an error so I didn’t think it posted. Sorry, I didn’t mean to spam.

Mobil'Homme 31 Jul 06

I’ve been using the Ogio Hip Hop for about a year and find it extremely durable, useful, and understated (once you remove the big ass “OGIO” logo).

What makes it so useful is that it has convenient, dedicated pockets for the stuff I carry in my bag: sunglasses, cell phone (I use it for a digital camera), water bottle, and airlines tickets (I thought this was stupid until I used it). It also has a ton of interior pockets and an easy-to-access slot for laptop. For someone who tends to misplaced stuff, “a place for everything and everything in its place” really helps.

Oh, and at $45-$70, it’s dead cheap.

AndrewH 31 Jul 06

c’mon now give it up for the Flightable
http://www.flightable.com/

the most useless case ever.

Van Gogh 31 Jul 06

Waterfield makes some really stylish bags that are also VERY durable. I’ve had my RacerX for nearly 2 years… with daily use it still looks brand-new. My favorite feature is the mountain-bike grip handle.

More imporatant… it stays upright when I set it down, even fully loaded.

http://www.sfbags.com/index.htm

Andres Lopez Josenge 31 Jul 06

Another vote for Waterfied, I highly recommend theCargo Bag in ballistic black with the paragliding buckle…!

Andres Lopez Josenge 31 Jul 06

Another vote for Waterfied, I highly recommend theCargo Bag in ballistic black with the paragliding buckle…!

Oliver 31 Jul 06

Waterfield! What really striked me was their customer service. Personal, and to the point. It seems to be as if they’re the 37signals in bag’s business. Just read their story…

Howard 31 Jul 06

I’m a big fan of my Laptop Armor aluminum case. I’ve had soft cases for years and watched laptops get bounced around. I finally got myself this Haliburton style laptop case and it has completely babied my laptop. I get constant compliments and fun looks when I bring the case into a meeting.

Alex Payne 31 Jul 06

I’m something of a bag nut.

Timbuk2 and Crumpler are factory-made crap these days; both companies are trading on the street cred of their courier pasts to sell unattractive, poorly-designed bags in every possible outlet they can. Incase, Booq, and the other usual suspects making bags for Macs don’t do anything outstanding, just a lot of nylon, thin padding, and techy logos. Waterfield and Tom Bihn bags are functional but ugly, like a fly-fishing vest. Acme bags are outrageously overpriced for what they are. Ditto Jack Spade.

My advice: take a look at this bag compendium. Pick a manufacturer in your area and talk to them about what you want. Have somebody make you something that will last and fit your aesthetic.

If you’d rather go pre-fab, you’re better off going with a big soft goods manufacturer that makes more than just bags. Tumi has a few nice pieces. Burton makes a DJ bag that carries a laptop, iPod, headphones, and everything else you’d need for about $70, and it’s better-made than most of the stuff people have been linking to. Just don’t expect anything not designed for messengers to be comfortable on your shoulders for long periods of time.

lem 31 Jul 06

Stylish and light - The Minimalist:

http://www.zegari.com/minimalist.php?&products_id=1

Jeff Ward 31 Jul 06

I use this one by M-Audio:

http://www.m-audio.com/products/en_us/StudioPack-main.html

It has lots of space for cables and additional mobile audio production stuff.

Paul 31 Jul 06

Booq bags are the best

OliverZ 31 Jul 06

I would suggest FREITAG BAGS. I love my white 17Powerbook bag. It has a zipper, neoprene lining and fumestained rooftop-tarpaulin. Swiss made quality and from recycled materials. Great stuff!

http://www.freitag.ch/

Scott 31 Jul 06

If you looking for messenger type bags the links below are to the manufactures preferred by professional Messengers. (The guys you see on a bike in the middle of February in down town Chicago). Chrome has some excellent Laptop bags. PAC is strictly Messenger style but well worth it if you ride a bike.

http://www.chromebags.com/
http://www.pacdesigns.com/

Dave Astels 31 Jul 06

It’s a no brainer…. Brenthaven. I have a shoulderbag model as well as a backpack. They fit 15” & 17” macs wonderfully, with a bevvy of useful pockets and such.

Tough, well padded, and well designed.

gregor 31 Jul 06

holy cow, i’m late to the party.

i second the stm bags comment. i have one, they are fantastically well made, and the chicks dig them. :-)

http://www.disistotech.com/profile.html

Nismoto 31 Jul 06

If you’ve managed to read this far down the list then you won’t be disappointed by my minimalist laptop bag. Even though it is extremely light-weight and has limitless functionality, the design remains unbelievably simple.

It’s also available in a durable, waterproof version.

Diego Pires Plentz 31 Jul 06

Nike Epic Backpack

barry 31 Jul 06

For very stylish and exact-fit-for-Apple-laptops bags and sleeves, check out http://www.tucano.it/ENG/html_esterno/index.htm. It’s an Italian company, so the designs are a bit Euro, but if the terrible cruftyness of Targus gives you hives, their stuff could be for you. It may not be as durable as Waterfield but so far the bag seems plenty durable for day to day use. The prices I found on Froogle were strangely low for uber-trendy bags from Europe.

Ben Haldenby 31 Jul 06

My 12” PowerBook loves its Booqbag.

Bryan W 31 Jul 06

http://www.radtech.us/Products/MacTruck.aspx

Chris 31 Jul 06

The Leather Plumber’s bag from Bohemian Traders with your favorite sleeve from anywhere.

Charlie Jones 31 Jul 06

The best bags I’ve seen in a long time. If you aren’t familiar with them, you start with a base bag and then accessorize. Depending on the level of protection you want and the model of laptop, you select a protective insert that attaches to the inside of the bag. Some of the inserts double as a stand-alone sleeve. I’ve got the ID bag with a 12” Apple Brain Cell insert.

Their bags range from smaller “trip to the cafe” bags, to outright massive “road warrior” briefs. Great products…

Trey Piepmeier 31 Jul 06

I love my Racer-X for my 15” PowerBook. Fits like a glove, and it’s non-sweatshop.

Tomas 31 Jul 06

got the AcmeMade Clyde bag (http://acmemade.com/theclyde.html) and so far very satisfied. it’s a bit pricey, however very nice, simple and, i guess, durable. i’d recommend.

Damian Rintelmann 31 Jul 06

I absolutely love my spire Enzo! It’s kept my past couple of powerbooks safe.

I highly recommend these guys (small team out of colorado).

http://spireusa.com

Tomas 31 Jul 06

got the AcmeMade Clyde bag (http://acmemade.com/theclyde.html) and so far very satisfied. it’s a bit pricey, however very nice, simple and, i guess, durable. i’d recommend.

Stacy 31 Jul 06

I like to have 100% of everything I need when moving around with my laptop - bricks, surge protector, chillpad, mini usb HD, cell phone charger, etc. And also room for limited papers/folders/stapler, etc. And a great pair of wheels to boot. Just bought a Targus Rolling Travel Notebook Case from Office depot for $95. Short on style but long on functionality.

geoffco 31 Jul 06

Crumpler any day of the week. I’ve got The Horseman, can’t fault it, even on 2 laptops, lunch and a library days… :-)
Oh, and a 7 million dollar home for the photo gear. And Brian’s Hot Tub for when I need laptop and photo action all at the same time.

Don’t get me started on my wife’s crumpler collection.

Travo 31 Jul 06

All the cool kids get crumpler.
www.crumpler.com

Emile 31 Jul 06

Ooohhh, me too!!! ;-)

I lug around my 17” PB in a “Brain Cell”laptop sleeve by Tom Binh at tombinh.com. You can buy it separately or with the Courier shoulder bag which has more pockets than you can know what to do with and is both sturdy and comfortable.

Good luck!!

Dale Tan 31 Jul 06

I got a RELOAD case (but didnt’ customize it cause I needed it quick). but the newest ones have handles and (i think) a removeable shoulder strap. They are very reliable and hand made in Philly and Seattle.

http://www.reloadbags.com

dolphin278 31 Jul 06

i prefer the Samsonite laptop backpacks - http://www.samsonite.com

anon 01 Aug 06

Any recommendation for a student that needs to carry both laptop and some three notebooks?

Joel 01 Aug 06

http://www.naturkompaniet.se/index.asp?ItemId=10580

The swedish “DePendler” (made by the famous Fjällräven) is by far the coolest laptop case. It has this frame that makes you able to sit upon it like a traveling chair, great for waiting on trains/buses etc.

hmmm 01 Aug 06

The phrase “Link it up” is really annoying.

Tom 01 Aug 06

I don’t know what type of laptop you are talking about but these Wrappers look really nice if you’re a Mac owner.

procreate 01 Aug 06

http://www.axio-usa.com/html/product2.html

… and put it in any bag you want.

STxN 01 Aug 06

Ha, how many of these laptop bags are mentionned on [url=http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boblbee]Wikipedia[/url]? xD

http://www.boblbee.com

STxN 01 Aug 06

Ha, how many of these laptop bags are mentioned at [url=http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boblbee]Wikipedia[/url]? xD

http://www.boblbee.com

STxN 01 Aug 06

Ha, how many of these laptop bags are mentioned at [url=http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boblbee]Wikipedia[/url]? xD

http://www.boblbee.com

Andy 01 Aug 06

Forget the rest of the comments (except for the other Waterfield recommendations!). Their bags are superb. I’ve had mine for over a year and it’s still looks brand new. Yes, they’re fairly expensive - although I was seriously flukey and got mine off ebay for a song! However, having seen and experienced the bag firsthand I would definitely buy a new one from them. Just buy one. http://www.sfbags.com/index.htm

Stefan Seiz 01 Aug 06

Just make sure to get one with a handle and wheels (trolley). You’ll never look back. A Laptop with some other stuff and all the gadgets can get real heavy. Having a trolley is a real life saver for me.
There are very good ones from victorinox:
http://www.victorinox-travelgear.ch

AJ 01 Aug 06

I have had quite a variety of laptop bags. My most recent is the Wenger Synergy. I have had BooqBags brand backpack and this one blows it away for the money.

http://www.buy.com/prod/Synergy_Laptop_Backpack_by_Wenger_r_Maker_of_the_Genuine_Swiss_Army/q/loc/101/10393071.html

Henkka 01 Aug 06

I’ve had a Mandarina Duck laptop bag for over a year now and have been very satisfied with it. Quite minimal and functional - adjustable laptop fit, removable strap, hidable handles. Also very durable and sturdy but still soft and stylish. Have received many compliments on various meetings with the bag :) Different models available, so just head to a shop to see them live.

http://www.mandarinaduck.com
(Select “man” / “work” to see a glimpse.

Neil Albrock 01 Aug 06

I use a Crumpler ‘Very Busy Man’ and I totally love it. Really well made, huge enough for all my junk and looks after my 15” Powerbook beautifully. I just bought one of their snazzy iPod cases too, yummy..!

Tim Marman 01 Aug 06

+1 for Booq. I just bought a Folee XS to replace my aging Tumi Vesey Messenger bag (which might have also been the worst designed bag ever). By contrast, the Booq is smaller, lighter, holds more, and is more “convenient”.

I’ve only had it for a week or so, but definitely loving it. It’s stylish but understated with black ballistic nylon and orange trimming. Definitely check it out.

Chazz 01 Aug 06

I love my Tom Bihn Empire Builder but no matter what you get, splurge for his “Absolute Shoulder Strap” which is fantastic.
http://www.tombihn.com/

For a CASE —which is what was asked about in the first place—, I cant believe no one has mentioned the “hard cover case”

http://hardcovercase.com/Welcome.html

Ian 01 Aug 06

I think I win for the cheapest bag ever. It’s the Init Notebook Slip Case from Best Buy at only $9. It fits my 13” MacBook Core Duo just fine and gives the protection I need with neoprene outside and a felt interior.

http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?skuId=7583091&type=product&productCategoryId=cat08003&id=1130342982055

shawn 01 Aug 06

I second Spire, the best laptop bag I’ve ever had, hands down. You have to try it to believe it - it’s incredibly comfortable, and they pay so much attention the the little details that makes a bag great.

timoni 01 Aug 06

I went through a pretty extensive bag search last year, trying to find something that (a) wasn’t ugly or ulitarian (b) wasn’t too “guy” and (c) wasn’t designed for female professionals (e.g., heavy on the pink, Spade-like lines or fake crocodile. I ended up with Ogio’s Chassy model, which has lots of cute accents, many useful pockets, and gets a lot of compliments.

Only caveat: My 15” Powerbook doesn’t fit into the sleeve, although due to the construction of the large pocket, it doesn’t make much of a difference.

timoni 01 Aug 06

I went through a pretty extensive bag search last year, trying to find something that (a) wasn’t ugly or ulitarian (b) wasn’t too “guy” and (c) wasn’t designed for female professionals (e.g., heavy on the pink, Spade-like lines or fake crocodile. I ended up with Ogio’s Chassy model, which has lots of cute accents, many useful pockets, and gets a lot of compliments.

Only caveat: My 15” Powerbook doesn’t fit into the sleeve, although due to the construction of the large pocket, it doesn’t make much of a difference.

Bob Aman 01 Aug 06

I don’t know where I got it, but I found myself a photo backpack with a laptop compartment. Tag on the backpack says it’s made by “Delsey”. In any case, it’s the best designed backpack I’ve ever owned, and my biggest reservation about upgrading to a 15” MacBook Pro has been that it would (just barely) no longer fit in this particular backpack. That says something I think.

For sure though, I greatly prefer laptop backpacks to over-the-shoulder laptop cases or laptop briefcases. There are a few people out there who carry only the laptop and powerbrick, but I’ve always found that carrying around the little adaptors and cables and whatsits that go with the laptop has been incredibly handy at conferences and meetups and such. Someone always needs something, whether it be a dongle or an adaptor or just a spare plug on your tiny surge strip. I prefer to be the guy who’s well-prepared (less is not always more), which means a bit more weight, which means a backpack. Plus I actually do have a camera in there, so the backpack form factor is a total no-brainer.

Jeff Wheeler 01 Aug 06

One more vote for Waterfield (sfbags.com). They’re excellent… beautiful, simple, and protective.

I really love mine…

mcdj 01 Aug 06

Jack Spade makes lovely bags. Also check out this little known leather sleeve from down under. Sweeeet.

http://toffee.com.au/

Doug 01 Aug 06

I did a bag search a while back when I got my 15” MacBook Pro. I really like the vertical form factor and limited my choices to vertical bags that were also simple. My previous bag had so many pockets and compartments that I tended to carry way too many unnecessary things that I had forgotten were stowed in the bag. I ended up with an Oakley Vertical 2.0 http://oakley.com/o/o3110d and I’m very pleased with it.

k 01 Aug 06

I use my Freitag bag with my Powerbook in the narrow back compartment in a Waterfield sleeve. Definitely not business attire, and doesn’t say “laptop”

http://www.freitag.ch

k 01 Aug 06

I use my Freitag bag with my Powerbook in the narrow back compartment in a Waterfield sleeve. Definitely not business attire, and doesn’t say “laptop”

http://www.freitag.ch

Jim Jeffers 01 Aug 06

I love the rugged Aluminum Cases from laptop Armor. It matched my powerbook to make the deal all the sweeter. Yes it can get scratched (case) but it’s not that much of an issue. People always stop and ask me about it too. It makes you look like a high profile executive / secret agent. Plus it totally protects your laptop too.

Jeff Hartman 01 Aug 06

Taking my chances that this is not in poor taste. I’m a regular visitor and commenter on this blog…although a bit late to this thread.

We’re an online bag reseller and sell quite a few of the bags listed in the comments here (Acme Made, Brenthaven, Booq, Crumpler, and soon to be several others). If you’re in the Chicago area and want to see some in person, or if you want to know more about specific bags from an independent source, send me an email.

http://www.pivotgear.com

Jeff Hartman 01 Aug 06

And that email is jeff at jeffhartman dot com.

scola 01 Aug 06

I’d highly recommend just slipping your laptop into a neoprene sleeve like this one from Case Logic, and dropping that into any bag you’d like.

Mike Birch 01 Aug 06

I have a Marmot Vagabond, which is great for cycling to work with my 15” powerbook. It’s not made anymore, but maybe the Gunnison is similar.

Anon 02 Aug 06

www.mezzi.com

(get them for as cheap as $20) on eBay

A variety of sizes and finishes.

Lightweight, stylish, customizable foam inserts (!).

Italian.

Who could ask for anything more?

John Topley 02 Aug 06

I got a Brenthaven backpack for my 12” PowerBook and it’s just great. They used to have a testimonial on their site about a guy who came off a motorbike whilst his PowerBook was in a Brenthaven backpack. Suffice to say, he was damaged but the computer wasn’t!

Peter Davison 02 Aug 06

I’ve always liked pelican cases. They’re pretty much bullet proof.

http://www.pelican.com/cases_detail.php?Case=1490CC1

Jack Orange 02 Aug 06

There is a new site coming out called “Crowdstorm” which does this kind of thing (or that’s what their blog says at least). They want to be able to let people post items and see what their friends are recommending to buy - finding buzz around products.

Jack Orange 02 Aug 06

Forgot the link:

http://www.crowdstorm.com

Kerri 02 Aug 06

Waterfield. Not only are they terrific, durable bags that keep your gear safe, they have excellent, fast, personal service. But the kicker for me? They’re made in San Francisco by San Franciscans who are paid to make top quality bags.

I use a sleevecase with d-rings, a flap, a strap, and a piggyback. Sveltest, sleekest laptop bag you’ve ever seen.

Griff 02 Aug 06

So, while I have already touted Tumi bags, I saw Paul Mansour’s comment above in which he stated that Glaser Design bags were superior. I have to give Paul a nod of agreement since visiting the website and my recent customer experience.

I visited the site and requested a catalog last night (though I am still struggling with the price). I received an almost immediate email from Mr. Glaser, indicating that they would ship the catalog the following day. Today, I got a phone call from Mr. Glaser, thanking me for my compliments regarding the product (which is a real piece of art based on what I can tell on the website) and inviting me to call once I get the catalog to discuss the different bags, organization options, and my needs to ensure that I get the right one. I am definitely impressed. Much like my experience with Basecamp!

Mr Lee 02 Aug 06

Sumdex Alti-Pac is a svelte little bag, expandable to hold my iBook and Dell laptops, however light as feather when toting scratch paper. Clean lines, smart functions.

Another option is Slappa. Makers of hardy CD/DVD cases, their laptop backpacks are quite extreme….did someone say they needed “Pro-grade rainproof scuba-prene”? Padded protection and dark styling.

Ken Soliva 02 Aug 06

Growing tired of carrying two bags (a backpack and a laptop bag from Booq), I purchased the Rip-Stop Backpack from Incase. It is plenty large enough to carry my 17” MacBook Pro with plenty of space for a few books and some accessories.

The attention of detail that went into the construction of this pack is remarkable. Like all competent computer bags, the laptop sleeve stops over an inch from the bottom of the bag to insure safe transport. This sleeve and an iPod pouch are lined with a velvet-like fabric to protect the delicate surfaces of my Apple products.

Admittingly, carrying a backpack is not everyone’s cup of tea nor does it provide optimal laptop protection. However, this backpack, which has proved much more comfortable than most messenger style solutions, has met all of my needs without sacrificing a bit of style!

Amy 02 Aug 06

I’m a big fan of my Pinder laptop case. It’s really durable and even comes in pink. What more could you want?

Nathan de Vries 03 Aug 06

A couple of people have already said STM bags, and while I agree with going for STM…I don’t necessarily think the bags are such a good idea.

Personally, I use one of the neoprene slips that STM sells, and throw that inside a Black Wolf bag. It means I get the comfort of a bag-maker that’s knows their stuff, but also the security of my laptop being protected.

I guess I just haven’t seen any bags specifically for laptops which fit my profile of a great, everyday bag.

Vibrio Pellamente 06 Aug 06

For those of you who enjoy high quality Italian leather designer bags, Lux Europe has great prices on authentic Prada & Fendi backpacks/messenger bags/laptop cases . I bought BT0172 and it doubles as a messenger bag & laptop case for me. It’s awesome. And yes, it’s definitely authentic.

Vibrio Pellamente 06 Aug 06

For those of you who enjoy high quality Italian leather designer bags, Lux Europe has great prices on authentic Prada & Fendi backpacks/messenger bags/laptop cases . I bought BT0172 and it doubles as a messenger bag & laptop case for me. It’s awesome. And yes, it’s definitely authentic.

Joe Ganley 07 Aug 06

I’m also a bit of a bag freak, and partial to Waterfield for my non-laptop cargo needs… but when carrying a laptop, I’ve always felt that you really want a backpack, not a shoulder bag. I have an eBags ‘store brand’ (I guess) that I’ve had for years and love. It would easily hold two laptops. Carrying 20-30 pounds on one shoulder is a recipe for back problems.

slumos 07 Aug 06

Marware Sportfolio. (They have various sizes but this is the one I have.)

A computer bag should be for carrying / protecting a computer, not a computer and books, your phone, car keys, coffee tumblers, etc. That said, the stretchy neoprene pocket is just genius. I’ve had everything in it from accessories, to files, pens, even my wife’s PowerBook and both our chargers.

When I need to carry a bunch of other crap, I put my Marware bag inside the outer bag with the rest.

rshah21 13 Aug 06

I’ve used just about all of the bags listed aboe, and would probably rank them as follows:

SpireUSA’s Meta backpack (can carry two laptops)
Crumpler Crisp Suit (can carry two laptops)
Timbuk2 Commute (ah for the days when Timbuk2 would let you customize their laptop bags, not just their messenger/cargos) (one laptop)
Northface Offsite (one laptop)
Samsonite Pro-DLX medium bag (two laptops)
Booq Python (can carry two laptops, too big for airline carryon)

The Meta is huge - too big, as a matter of fact. The Samsonite is my traditional “business” bag that I use when flying. Since moving to a MacBook Pro that, with parallels desktop, can emulate a PC, I’ve ditched the other laptop and moved to the Nrothface offsite, which is an excellent commuter bag with good interior pocket design as well as exterior pockets for all the stuff you need on the subway

George Merrill 15 Aug 06

I’ve got to tell you. With the recent airport problems, I can see in the very near future the possibility of NO CARRY ON’s at all. Including laptops. Worldwide. Which means The Zero Halliburton laptop case is by far the most protective laptop case you can buy. I’ve owned a Zero Halliburton for four years and exclusively use it to carry my laptop. That aluminum sided case will take the harshest abuse from the hairiest ugliest airport baggage handler you can imagine. It’s not the cheapest, but well worth protecting the thousands of dollars worth of time we all cram into our laptops.

george merrill 15 Aug 06

Here’s the link.
http://www.zerohalliburton.com/computer/aluminum.jsp

Bob Fleck 15 Aug 06

For photographers, the Lowepro Stealth Reporter series is a good bag. Messenger style, holds a laptop, 1 or 2 full size camera bodies, lenses, and all the other misc. gear.
The original goal of the series was to create a camera bag that didn’t look like a camera bag, since laptop+cameras+lenses >= $6000 for a traveling digital photographer.
I’ve had one of the older models for 4+ years, and it’s still rock solid. One buckle broke about 2 years in, and Lowepro sent me a new one with no hassle.
http://www.lowepro.com/Products/Shoulder_Bags/notebook_camera/

Till 16 Aug 06

The Freitag laptop sleeves are really neat http://www.freitag.ch/

(as are their bags, which are even exhibited in the MoMa New York, as I’ve heard)

Sara 18 Sep 06

I like my red laptop sleeve I got from Rainebrooke.
http://www.rainebrooke.com