Top Ten Coolest Laptop Cases

coverlim writes "The finishing touch for any uber geek is a cool laptop bag, even if that means duct tape. For some rather more fetching, stylish choices, check out productdose's Top Ten Coolest Laptop Cases . Im particularly keen on the haliburton for moonlighting at CTU, or the Knomo Frinton for hanging out. Im betting slashdotters will prefer the on with solar panels?"

Comments

Crumpler

[ExE122]

Not bad, but the coolest bags I've seen (I don't actually own any) are the Crumpler bags. I'm surprised they didn't get a nod. Their site is also pretty funny. Clay kitten shooting and the like. I think some of the posts below the article mention them (RTFPBTA?).

Now that I've promoted it on Slashdot, I'll sit back and watch my stocks soar!

--
"Man Bites Dog
Then Bites Self"

Re:Crumpler

[Doggan]

That is one extremely annoying webpage - especially for one trying to sell a product. The backpacks loop pretty nice, but even the catalog is a pain. I think my Targus backpack looks better.

Re:Crumpler

[deadphoenix]

I was interested in buying a Crumpler when i recently got my new Dell lappy. The only problem was it was a widescreen model and didn't know whether they would be suitable. In retrospect i guess i could've purchased an ibook bag or something, but in the end i got a rather stylish Quiksilver bag for £15 and customised it myself with the aid of some tippex and a few coloured marker pens.

It's so stylish i use it for my college papers and project folder more than for carrying the laptop itself. Many of my laptop-lugging friends have asked me where i got my bag from, and if it comes from the shop like mine. Style is individual i guess!

Re:Crumpler

[Jetekus]

If by "funny" you mean "impossible to navigate due to random icons and no labels", then yes, I agree.

Re:Crumpler

[Anonymous Coward]

"Now that I've promoted it on Slashdot, I'll sit back and watch my stocks soar!"

Methinks i'll sit back and watch your bandwidth soar instead!

Re:Crumpler

[shut_up_man]

They do very nice bags indeed, and they get extra points for having a bag called the Budgie Smuggler.

Re:Crumpler

[rossifer]

Function is the coolest feature, IMHO. I prefer a bag that carries what you need and nobody can tell if there's a laptop inside. Especially for airports. Let the guy who's "dressed for success" be the mark and just get on your flight with no muss or fuss.

Samsonite makes some nice backpacks like that. I've bought three Samsonite backpacks in the last three years:

one for me (linked) that my fiance "borrowed"
one to replace the first (which turned out to be ideal for just carrying the laptop but too small for travel)
and the current backpack that can carry my laptop as well as organize my camera bag (small SLR camera)

But at the moment, ebags only has the original that is still used (and loved) by my fiance for carrying her laptop to and from classes, especially when she's on her motorcycle.

Regards,
Ross

Re:Crumpler

[rainman_bc]

I'm with you - I carry my laptop in a Samsonite bag as well. It's safe, secure, and I don't have to worry about thieves knowing I have a laptop... Targus bags are just too damned obvious...

I like my laptop case

[liliafan]

I find my walmart plastic bag to be perfectly suitable to carry around my old crappy dell :p On second thoughts perhaps I should transfer it to trashbag :)

Re:I like my laptop case

[EtherAlchemist]

I'd take a Walmart bag any day over the "fine" veneer craftsmanship of Peter Kinne.

Re:I like my laptop case

[Alex P Keaton in da]

My laptop bag is the standard black fare-
If I want something cooler I will make it myself (90% because I am cheap, 10% because I enjoy making stuff)
The coolest "bag" on there in my opinion is the halliburton, but for almost $400, I would just buy a small stainless briefcase or suitcase (maybe even used) (thanks to the internet, finding a funny size suitcase/briefcase is fairly easy) and then hit up the craft/hobby store and get foam padding. Heck, I might even buy a cheap laptop bag from walmart, and cut out the pen holders and all and affix them to the inside of my homemade "bag."
The wood case is cool though- but A: My laptop is a tool, and as such "fine wood" really isn't an option and
B: I can't see spending thousands for a nice wooden custom case for a tool I replace every couple years....

Re:I like my laptop case

[Thud457]

I wanted something that didn't say "HEY, I'M AN EXPENSIVE LAPTOP COMPUTER, STEAL ME !"

So I bought a Danish school bag at the local amy surplus. I got a sleeve for the laptop, which all fits in the bag. Then I grunged it up with some paint and iron-on patches to make it look like nothing nobody would want to steal. For extra padding, I can put my towel in it.

About the only thing less likely to get stolen would be a diaper bag with Barney all over it.

Re:I like my laptop case

[Syberghost]

Based on the assumption that your average crack-addled goblin will steal anything that's not nailed down, I achieve the same effect by carrying a gun, studying American Kenpo, and not letting my laptop bag out of my reach in public places.

Re:I like my laptop case

[Anonymous Coward]

>> About the only thing less likely to get stolen would be a diaper bag with Barney all over it.

I don't even want to know what that gets "grunged up" with.

Here's a good tip for geek Aussies....

[Mattygfunk1]

Try a Crumpler bag. They're not only extremely well built and comfortable, but extremely stylish as well.

They're fashionable to the point that non-geeks use them for regular bags. Shit website though.

yikes

[Anonymous Coward]

grammar anyone? (emits the collective slashdot sigh)

Uber Geeks care about style?

[Anonymous Coward]

I'm not sure uber geeks have the *coolest* laptop bags...

My operating systems professor often wore black with a brown belt/shoes.

Re:Uber Geeks care about style?

[JargonScott]

Mine would often not have matching shoes.

Re:Uber Geeks care about style?

[Anonymous Coward]

That's it?!

My OS professor tucked his sweaters into his tighty-whities, which in turn made his tighty-whities visible above the belt line and he would leave combs in his hair!

stylish not cool

[martin]

darn, there was me thinking I'd actually be able to get a laptop on my lap again - these things are HOT!

A well at least I'll look nice even with a burn on my lap ;-)

Re:stylish not cool

[Anonymous Coward]

You might not just burn your lap!
http://www.theregister.co.uk/2002/11/22/man_burns_ penis_with_laptop/

Re:stylish not cool

[identity0]

Yes, but Haliburton cases are also good for storing One Million Dollars (in Dr. Evil voice) in Benjamins. How many dorky laptop cases would look good with a dark suit and sunglasses, handcuffed to your wrist? When I bring my laptop out, the case had better make a nice 'prrrrrup' sound, and make people think I'm going to pull out a million dollars, a brick of coke, or a pair of Uzis.

Seriously, I wonder if they're designed to hold just the right amount of bills for drug deals and arms sales.

I guess I'm just not geek enough

[Itninja]

I have the APC TravelPower bag and thought that was pretty cool. It has a built-in battery that charges my laptop and any other USB-chargable devices (i.e. pda, phone). And it came with AC, car, and plane adaptors.

Though the solar power 'on' [sic] is proabably way "lighter".

Comic genius.

Don't use a bag that clearly has a laptop in....

[internewt]

....unless you want to be mugged!

I want the bulletproof one

[MECC]

For when I buy a laptop without an operating system, so I can deflect bullets from MS 'security auditors'.

Re:I want the bulletproof one

[scolby]

Bulletproof? You mean chairproof, right? Ballmer's training a squad of ninjas to track down people who purchase naked PCs.

foofpod

[demon411]

got my gf a foofbag (aka foofpod) case. They have some cool designs, use nice material, and are hand made. she's gotten lots of compliments on the case ;0 they've gotten good reviews, made in australia

Re:foofpod

[KatchooNJ]

Wow! This foof site is awesome! I really love their stuff! I can't thank you enough for sharing! :) Not all bags have to have the "uber geek" stamp on it. ;) Some can look cool. Most geeks I know have ZERO fashion sense. ;) hehe

Re:foofpod

[demon411]

ya they are really cool looking and have a nice feel, also good to set your laptop on when working. was hoping the more sylish tech people would see the post ;)

Re:foofpod

[Anonymous Coward]

I like exclamation points! ;) Winking smiley faces are cool too! ;)

Re:foofpod

[Anonymous Coward]

I think you mean poofbag. Not that there's anything wrong with that...

Backpack + padded shell

[spooky_nerd]

I put a padded shell inside a slightly battered back pack. The shell does a great job of protecting the backpack. I can take the shell out when I'm using the backpack for something else. And, it doesn't look like there's anything valuable in the backpack. I've heard stories of people smashing car windows and grabbing shoulder bags, because they look like they probably have a laptop inside them. My bag looks like it's used by a student to carry text books.

Re:Backpack + padded shell

[modemboy]

Too bad with textbook prices these days they're almost as valuable as a laptop. :(

Good point though, I do the same thing, $15 neoprene sleve in my backback and my lappy is safe.

Re:Backpack + padded shell

[trogdor8667]

The other reply is exactly right. Take it from a college student: people are just as likely to steal a backpack as a laptop now. You can make $500 easily selling books to a campus bookstore. At my school, you hear about a lot more book thefts than laptop thefts.

Also, I'm curious: where did you get the neoprene sleeve? I honestly could use something like that with my laptop.

Re:Backpack + padded shell

[demachina]

Timberland makes backpacks with a laptop pouch built in. Its not really heavily padded but I love it. If your laptop is sitting on your back that is about the safest place you are going to find to carry it and the weight is evenly distributed on your shoulders, not pulling to one side.

Yes a backpack isn't entirely going to discourage thieves but its about the best you are going to do for inconspicuous. A shoulder bag screams out expensive laptop and is going to invite a mugger or someone to try to snatch it at an airport.

Fact is it does have something valuable in it so you have to use common sense and keep it with you and keep it out of sight if you leave it in a car.

Re:Backpack + padded shell

[volpe]

The shell does a great job of protecting the backpack.

How good a job does it do of protecting the laptop?

Too Pricey!

[955301]

Personally, I bought a case similiar to the haliburton from Office Depot for $100 then packed the other $282.50 around the computer for protection and $.50 coffees.

I subscribe to two financial rules: 1)Don't spend the seed money. 2) It's all seed money.

Buy a cheaper case, find a simple padding solution and go save an entire african family for a year with the rest of the money.

Re:Too Pricey!

[Anonymous Coward]

Buy a cheaper case, find a simple padding solution and go save an entire african family for a year with the rest of the money.

Yeah, with $282.50 you could buy the family 2.825 Media Lab computers that don't exist and never will! Good luck finding a case that will carry those crankable imaginary computers, Africans!

Re:Too Pricey!

[darkitecture]

Personally, I bought a case similiar to the haliburton from Office Depot for $100 then packed the other $282.50 around the computer for protection and $.50 coffees.

I subscribe to two financial rules: 1)Don't spend the seed money. 2) It's all seed money.

Buy a cheaper case, find a simple padding solution and go save an entire african family for a year with the rest of the money.

I can imagine your righteous indignation schtick ends up being a BIG BUNCH of fun every time someone orders an extra hit of malt in their milkshake or orders a regular fries instead of a small. You'll always have that little nugget of information ready at the get-go about how that extra sixteen cents could pay for water filtration for a thousand endangered macaques in Nothern Kreplakistan.

Sometimes it's considered being frugal, but when you make it out like spending an extra couple hundred bucks for a case that has a LIFETIME WARRANTY to protect an invest of perhaps a couple THOUSAND dollars, you just end up sounding like a TIGHTASS.

I bet you're the type of person who contemplates turning the fridge off every now and again to 'save a few cents.'

Normally I hate hurling abuse and burning up karma but man, you made yourself sound like such an egotistical I-earn-$85k-a-year-but-still-clip-coupons-and-rati on-my-butter tightwad I just snapped.

I might just add that my father bought a set of Halliburton suitcases back when he used to be a travelling project engineer and it's lasted him 37 years and somewhere in the vicinity of six and a half million frequent flyer points worth of travelling. He still uses it to this day. I personally have a Halliburton briefcase that's lasted me seven years, about 1.2 million miles worth of travel, countless trips down stairs and other trials and tribulations in some of the most inhospitable parts of Northern Africa and bitter cold parts of Southern America (I'm a photographer in case you're wondering). I can't even begin to imagine how many dozens of $100 Office Depot briefcases I would have gone through during those times.

Imagine how many starving fucking African families that would save. Jackass.

Re:Too Pricey!

[Arctic Fox]

Hear Hear. Nothing worse than a bad case of smug. How is the Halliburton bag in terms of going through TSA at airports? Do they just assume that you're a g-man and wave you through? I'd like to get one, but I'm a frequent flier, and I suspect they'd bust by balls everytime I'd go through.

Re:Too Pricey!

[misfit815]

First of all, that was pretty impressive.

Anyway, in the tightass's defense, a $100 knock-off may be appropriate. After all, most of us think of our nice pullover when you mention Patagonia, not our last business trip.

I personally used the freebie bags from a couple of Microsoft TechEd's for a while (sit down, somebody else paid for me to go). They worked well enough for me and were the right price. My wife still uses one off-and-on for her laptop. Of course, I probably wouldn't have taken either of them to the African plains.

Nice slam, though.

Re:Too Pricey!

[pebs]

Sometimes it's considered being frugal, but when you make it out like spending an extra couple hundred bucks for a case that has a LIFETIME WARRANTY to protect an invest of perhaps a couple THOUSAND dollars, you just end up sounding like a TIGHTASS.

Being a tightass, you wouldn't want to spend "a couple THOUSAND dollars" on a laptop. An older used IBM Thinkpad will do just fine (T23 for $360). I spent $40 on my laptop bag and it protects my laptop quite well. No need to go spend money on a fancy bag that costs the same as the laptop itself.

Re:Too Pricey!

[darkitecture]

No problem 99% of the time. I was asked to open it years ago while going through LAX and then also Kansai and Narita. Ever since then, I just open it up and let them scan it open.

Re:Too Pricey!

[Jay Maynard]

The TSA doesn't trat the Halliburton any differently from any other piece of luggage: if they don't like the way you look, you get strip-searched, regardless of what you're carrying.

Re:Too Pricey!

[955301]

This isn't nickels and dimes you literary bed bug. This is almost a 3x1 ratio on the same product line where both cases are well built! But now I know what fool will by a lifetime warranty on a $100 briefcase for 280 bucks when the comparable item is MADE OF ALUMINUM and padded as well. It isn't aluminum foil - get a warranty on the computer instead.

But as long as your criticizing me by endowing what I typed with egotystical emotion (http://www.techdirt.com/articles/20060213/1558206 .shtml), I'd like to congratulate you for your wonderfully rich braggings about being a traveling photographer. Let's hope your photos are better than your retorts.

Yet you still haven't provided an example where a $100 steal of a case let your father or second cousin's girlfriend's old dog skippy's circus bound littermate with 6 legs down in the past. If you're going to tell me how stupid I am, might I suggest telling a story about a counter example to what I said, not a re-affirmation of how fantaboliciously accurate the article's reviews were.

Finally, mmmmmmyyyyyyyyyyy daddy used to repair US embassies outside of the Europea and was impressed by my purchase - oh, and my computer still works. So go cover Iraq - I'll send you a t-shirt to wear.

To anyone reading this who hasn't lost their sense of logic what I'm suggesting in simple - if you're even glancing at the price of a product, be diligent, find a great deal and save the money for more important things - like a logic book for your friend the photographer.

booq

[darkitecture]

I always thought Booq made some fantastic laptop bags and accessories. Although it's predominantly aimed at Mac owners, the bags are obviously suited to other models as well. I have a Toshiba Portege which just loves the Booq bag it calls a cozy home.

Check them out at http://www.booqbags.com/

Re:booq

[Doctor Memory]

I got a Booq bag for a trip, and I wound up sending it back. They look great and all, but in the end there just wasn't enough room in it for much more than the laptop and PS brick. (I guess that's why they sell so many accessories that attach to the shoulder strap.) Sure, that should be all you need, but it was a hella big bag for the bit of space it gave you. And the sleeve that came with it wasn't very well padded. So I sent my $100+ bag back and hied myself down to $OFFICESUPPLYSTORE and picked up a thickly-padded laptop sleeve for $30. It's got pockets for cables & whatnot, and fit nicely into the bag I already have (an old-skool Timbuk2 Dee Dawg).

Re:booq

[ticklemeozmo]

Thank you, I actually ordered onE.

axio has the most efficient, protective, lightest

[Anonymous Coward]

Without a doubt, a much more efficient, protective, lightweight, and versatile solution is the axio-mini (http://www.axio-usa.com/html/product.html) I got this after crashing on my bike with my laptop in a soft backpack and it looked very similar to the damage picture here.

And what is the deal with messenger bags? I know not everyone has a 3 pound tablet to carry around, but that's rediculous carrying a 6-8lb laptop around on ONE shoulder!

Missing from the list

[Billosaur]

The FedEx box, seams carefully reinforced with duct tape, which includes a bubble wrap lining to protect your laptop from even the most rude of shocks.

Re:Missing from the list

[Anonymous Coward]

Sure it will take the shocks as long as it's not handled by a FedEx carrier.

Laptop cases? Still hoping...

[Jantastic]

to see a top ten of mental cases on slashdot some day.

Re:Laptop cases? Still hoping...

[Single GNU Theory]

to see a top ten of mental cases on slashdot some day.

Look no further.

I have one of the solar-powered ones

[who what why]

I have a Voltaic solar-panel bag. It definitely gets a lot of attention. People often ask me (usually on the way out of a room/office/store) what the solar panels are for. I'm not sure how useful the solar panels are though - I live in New York and got the bag as a xmas present so it hasn't really seen much sunshine yet!

I use it to charge my PDA, mp3 player and crappy cell phone which runs out of batteries after an hour because it can't get a signal in Manhattan. So far I've been plugging the bag in at the office, then using the built in batteries to charge the gadgets in emergencies.

Basically, it's a nice idea, and a good conversation piece, but it's not really all that useful (well, it does a great job of carrying my laptop and papers around at least!)

Re:I have one of the solar-powered ones

[legirons]

I found the perfect bags for anyone worried about thievery...

Re:I have one of the solar-powered ones

[Yomer333]

Not to rain on anyone's parade, but it seems counter-intuitive to me that this list contains a laptop bag that will charge everything BUT a laptop. Yeah, being able to charge my mp3 player while I'm scooting around town is a pretty slick feature, but it seems like someone buying an emergency kit for their car that contains patches to fix the hole in their boat.

Re:I have one of the solar-powered ones

[ErroneousBee]

Ive always wondered whether the weight of the cells and battery dont make it worth creating a clockwork charger based upon Mr Bayliss's fine radios. It'll be more robust too.

No Medium either

[EtherAlchemist]

Medium Design Group has some really cool bags, too.

Sleeve

[krygny]

Mine of choice: Vyper XL

Simple; just something to hold and protect the unit. Somtimes, that's all I carry. If I need pockets for cables, charger, batteries, etc., then I use a briefcase that does NOT advertise "HEY, THERE'S A LAPTOP AND RELATED EXPESIVE STUFF IN HERE!!"

Re:Sleeve

[TransparentOx]

If you want something which makes people not want to steal it, you could always put a label on the outside with a certain Penguin on it... or perhaps the Mac's Apple logo.

Thatd be enough to make most thieves who knew what those meant not even bother =P

Re:Don't use a bag that clearly has a laptop in...

[visgoth]

Would this be low profile enough?

I like that Maloo Wrap.

[Anonymous Coward]

Just a mere $100 for literally a piece of felt with velco. What a rip-off.

Need ultra-thin "holster" case

[Jah-Wren Ryel]

I'm looking for a real stealth type of backpack/holster case.

Something that just carries the notebook and not much else. Kind of like those neoprene "slipcases." But I'm looking for one that straps to my back and can be worn under a jacket or coat and would do a pretty good job of hiding the fact that I was carrying a notebook with me at all.

Of course this would only be useful for an ultra-thin notebook, the kind that only ways a couple of pounds and has a screen 13" or less.

Anyone know where I can find such a holster-style notebook backpack?

Re:Need ultra-thin "holster" case

[Itninja]

You could try the ScottEvest
It can hold just about anything and you can even get solor panels for your back to recharge.

But there is this little disclaimer at the bottom of the page:

* Although most laptops will fit in the back pocket of your SeV, we don't recommend using it in lieu of a laptop bag. Sitting on your laptop is not comfortable nor good for your laptop. But it will surely work for short distances and especially for some of today's lightweight sublaptops.

Re:Need ultra-thin "holster" case

[Moofie]

Mr. President? Is that you?

Papa's got a brand new bag

[digitaldc]

The wooden case is excellent! My choice for overall best case.

(also perfect for the wooden executive)

Re:Little Late

[NoSalt]

Your point is???

I can't believe they didn't pick...

[z-kungfu]

at least one of the Axio bags...

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

Re:I can't believe they didn't pick...

[daniel422]

Yeah -- Axio has some of the coolest looking bags out there. I've got one that inspired several of my friends to buy one as well. I also always get comments from people at the airport and my corporate co-workers who expect jets to pop out the side.

How about some dimensions?

[Anonymous Coward]

Anybody who spends any real time on a computer knows that there's no substitute for screen real estate. We're finally able to get some decent 17" widescreen laptop screens. However, most of these laptop cases aren't designed for anything but the typical 14" or 15" laptop.

The first company to make some decent rugged laptop cases for 17" widescreen will make a killing.

Re:How about some dimensions?

[rxmd]

Anybody who spends any real time on a computer knows that there's no substitute for screen real estate. We're finally able to get some decent 17" widescreen laptop screens. However, most of these laptop cases aren't designed for anything but the typical 14" or 15" laptop.

My experience is exactly the other way roun d, but the result is the same. There is no substitute for low weight. I just ordered a Thinkpad X60 weighing at about 1.4 kg because if you carry your computer everywhere, the extra 1.5 to 2 kg for a 17" model do make a difference. If I need screen real estate, I'm probably sitting at a desk anywhay where I can be dual-screening with a large external screen. But on the road, a 17" display is the weight equivalent of two extra bottles of beer, in your bag, on your back, all the time.

The bag problem is similar with small machines, though. I used to use a Thinkpad 240 for some time (Celeron 300, 10" screen, 1.4 kg) and I had real trouble finding a bag for it. I did half a year of fieldwork in Uzbekistan where I regularly carried the machine in a plastic bag, it had the added advantage of being completely unobtrusive and making you blend in perfectly (no foreign tourist ever carries a grocery bag), but it was somewhat unwieldy and I had to be careful with it. Now that I'm back I wanted to switch to a messenger bag, but the generic Timbuk2 laptop models were suboptimal regarding size, ease of use, comfort and price/performance ratio [you pay for the name] and the more professional Ortlieb models (which are a lot better) aren't really that functional with a laptop. I ended up getting a technical support messenger bag from Bagjack (warning, flash site alert). They're handmade in Berlin and thus expensive, but completely customizable regarding accessories as well as looks. They have a laptop compartment that fits in using a double velcro system that is both tough and completely customizable in size. The subnotebook snugs in nicely, and you'd have no problems fitting a 17" machine in there either. The bag protects you in a fall, is functional due to its clever strap length adjustment mechanism, and it looks good.

Re:How about some dimensions?

[jayfree]

Trager Big Daddy http://www.tragerusa.com/ Trager makes some of the best bags in the world, they like invented the back pack, I have been dragging one around for 10 years now.

Re:How about some dimensions?

[heinousjay]

I am built larger than most people, but I have no problem carrying a 17 inch laptop and associated supplies in my backpack everywhere I go. Is there really that much difficulty in carrying 5 or 6 kilos? I can understand it being uncomfortable in a shoulder bag, but a properly adjusted backpack is barely even noticeable to me until I'm carrying two 17 inchers plus accoutrements.

(Notice: I assume I've done the conversions correctly here, I'm American but trying to use metric as much as possible)

Re:How about some dimensions?

[Anonymous Coward]

I have a latitude x1 ... its about 8 1/2" x 11" x 1 and weighs in at 2.9 lbs max ... I have yet to find a backpack that is tight enough to not add much weight other than some conference giveaway bags (which just aren't comfortable for travel)

I need a VERY light Very small un-obtrousive backpack.. booq used to have a small one .. but its no longer available

any ideas?

Re:How about some dimensions?

[satellite17]

I just got a 17 inch widescreen laptop and found these guys.
I'm very happy with my K3. It's rugged and doesn't look like a laptop case.

Targus

[hal9000(jr)]

I have been using a Targus backback for about 7 years and it has held up to alot of travel and wear. I can make that run from Terminal K to Terminal H at O'Hare and still get a Starbucks on the way. I am looking for something a bit slimmer though so that I am not fighting on airplanes for space. I have finally gotten to the point that I don't need to carry all that extra crap with me that I used to.

Boblbee

[Kulilin]

I thought they would mention Boblbee's hardshell backpacks. They are incredibly tough and have an interesting design, both in the technical and the looks departments.

Bah

[wwphx]

I don't like messenger bags, they require either a hand to be occupied or a shoulder to be disproportionately burdened. I use a Camelbak Alpine backpack. It will hold my laptop, charger, two USB cables for my Palm and my digital voice recorder, plus books for one class. I can squeeze in my Eos Digital Rebel if need be, and it'll still hold two 1-liter bottles of water. It is now carrying its second laptop and I see no problem with it lasting indefinitely.

And when I'm at a convention or something, the laptop stays in the hotel room hidden in luggage and I add the liter bottle of water back to it.

What I want is a Swiss Gear bag, but I'm kind of severely underemployed right now. I think the compartments would work better for the stuff that I need to keep around, the only problem with it is that it won't hold the one liter bottles of water that I prefer.

Zero Hallibutron r00lz, d00d

[Jay Maynard]

I've carried a gunmetal gray Zero Halliburton Z5 computer briefcase for 5 years now. It looks like it's been thorugh hell (because it has), but still does the job. It goes wherever I travel.

Re:Zero Hallibutron r00lz, d00d

[chipset]

I got mine in December. I have to agree it is cool. However, it doesn't quite have all the space I need. So, I use it for some trips, but not others. It is a great case, tho.

Cool?

[Looke]

Im betting slashdotters will prefer the on with solar panels?

Right ... Leaving all my gadgets in the heat of the sun doesn't sound quite cool to me.

Function over form, every time

[winkydink]

My current laptop case for travel weighs 25lbs fully loaded with all my "stuff". I want something functional, well padded and with pockets that are easy to get into and out of without opening the whole thing up. With that much weight, if it doesn't roll, it isn't worth squat.

500k air miles and 4 years later, I'm finally wearing out the bag that was the predecessor to the Travelpro Wall Street.

My replacement? Probably a Briggs & Riley because of the unconditional lifetime guarantee, but at $350, it's not in the range of the average consumer. For somethign more affordable, I'd look at the Travelpro Wall Street VIP rolling computer brief

Cases?

[Clinton]

The title misled me into thinking of a computer case, as in what the laptop looks like - not what to put the laptop in.

I hope I'm not the only one who thought wrong.

Re:Cases?

[oldstrat]

You aren't.
The article isn't decpetive, it's just that slashdotters are so used to seeing articles on cool case mods that when we hear case we assume it's a mod or DOJ or SCO.

I'm quite a fan...

[Toothpick]

of my own lappy case.

Briefcases

[RocketScientist]

Backpack in winter, when I want to have my hands in nice toasty gloves.

Summertime, though, I prefer the briefcase. I think it looks better.
http://www.fender.com/products/search.php?partno=0 991005000

The Fender Tweed briefcase. With a nice, hand-made padded case for my laptop, made out of crushed red velvet.

Re:Briefcases

[Rob the Bold]

The Fender Tweed briefcase. With a nice, hand-made padded case for my laptop, made out of crushed red velvet.

The coolest thing about that is that you can open up the case and sit down in a train station or on a sidewalk and hack for spare change.

Re:Don't use a bag that clearly has a laptop in...

[Anonymous Coward]

....unless you want to be mugged!

On a recent trip overseas, I took a laptop bag as my carry-on - no laptop, just the usual crap one carries on a plane. Every time I got mugged, I couldn't help but chuckle as the poor thief ran off carrying bottled water, boiled sweets, etc.

Until that one guy shot me.

Do I win £5?

Check the Oakley

[LunarOne]

The writing on the back looks military in nature, reading: "Tactical Field Gear, standard issue, Level 4 Restricted".

I wonder how smooth your trip through an airport would be with one of these slung over your shoulder.

Bags not cool

[Britz]

I dunno, but I would prefer to see at least one backpack. Also at least two of the bags seemed to look like bags you get with your laptop.

Everything for Powerbooks

[boingyzain]

Is there a case I can use for my IBM Thinkpad? All these bags and cases say they're meant for Powerbooks...

Re:Everything for Powerbooks

[Anonymous Coward]

Boils down to two choices for me (I, too have a Thinkpad). One is a super slim briefcase, hovering in the $99 range on ebay. Looks like, and probably feels like those cases used to transport cameras and other photographic equipment. Pros: just the right dimensions (give or take a cut sponge or two for filler) for a Thinkpad, and all business-like in the looks deparment. Am the type that would prefer using the TP in the open case for tight situations, just like the photo in TFA. Cons: Have to consider purchasing a slim Kensington 70W AC adapter if you travel frequently, or getting one for the house and one for the office. And that should be the only accessory you require, because slim as it is, the compartments inside might take a cellphone of Razr dimensions only.

THe other is a backpack thats more like a sleeve with straps to make the bag brace the body, but I've only seen it once, and couldn't bring myself to ask the guy where he got it. Nice and slim with a vertical profile, and a minimum of exterior pockets. THe backpack, I mean :-)

Waterfield

[UtSupra]

waterfield designs... Enough said...

Re:Waterfield

[cel4145]

Love mine. The quality is great. Worth every penny. I had bought an HP special edition L2000 laptop 14" widescreen with the extended battery which sticks out. Very unusual size at the time. Waterfield designs was the only place I found that looked like they might have a sleeve case that would fit well with the extended battery. When I asked their customer support, they went out and borrowed a laptop like mine to make sure it would work. Can't get service like that anywhere else. Then after I got mine, I turned my brother on to them. He loves his bag, too.

Looking for a backpack sleeve

[gestalt_boy]

For ages I've been trying to find a laptop sleeve with backpack straps. Does something like this even exist? Basically, I want the most minimal of padding, which one would get from a sleeve, with no extra pockets or bulges with backpack straps that allow it to stick close to my back and won't let the laptop move around as I bike to work. Any suggestions?

Re:Looking for a backpack sleeve

[Anonymous Coward]

You folks are all missing the boat: http://www.boblbee.com/jsp/public/general/homepage .jsp

Re:Looking for a backpack sleeve

[Anonymous Coward]

The hard case is ridiculously too big and the soft cases don't have backpack straps. This isn't even close!

Re:Looking for a backpack sleeve

[Anonymous Coward]

Get a normal sleeve and some duct-tape, that should do it.

Suffering

[oldstrat]

Desire is the source of all suffering.
The Takumi Shimamura wooden case is causing me extreme pain.

I like...

[citizenklaw]

Roadwired's Mega Media Bag. www.roadwired.com.

When I had one I could pack everything, and then some. Once I packed two laptops with all related paraphernalia, a couple of CD's and a couple of books. I miss that bag.

Heys ePac

[iamnotaclown]

The Crumpler bags mentioned somewhere above are very nice, but way overpriced for what is essentially a backpack with a padded compartment.

I grabbed a Heys ePac for my new MacBook Pro and love it. Almost as snazzy as a Crumpler, but for a fraction of the price.

Re:Heys ePac

[Anonymous Coward]

How can we order one, other than flying to Canada?

Re:Heys ePac

[thehun101]

Those bags might be the best ever, but their website drove me away. Do you have a link to someplace selling them without all the flash?

- the Hun

Re:Heys ePac

[Anonymous Coward]

The picture on the page you linked to looks interesting, but finding anything on a flash site is such a pain in the ass that I had to close the browser tab. If they had a nice simple static html site, I'd probably be buying one right now.

Plug for WaterField Designs

[MBCook]

I've been using a little slip by WaterField Designs for about a year now. It's one of their Sleeve Cases for my 15" PowerBook. My brother has been using one for his Titanium PowerBook for years now and it has held up great (as has mine). It's just the right size for the laptop, easy to get the laptop in and out. It's padded to it adds some protection (I tend to put it in my backpack) and keeps scratches away. It has a pocket on the back that can hold paper or something too which has come in quite handy.

It's nothing heavy duty like some of the cases in the article, but it's a very nice and light bag. They have many others so they may have something tougher but this was exactly what I was looking for to keep my laptop looking nice and in good condition.

Re:Plug for WaterField Designs

[Anonymous Coward]

I have their cargo bag and it is excellent as well. Also, their customer service is second to none.

Subterfuge

[glindsey]

The coolest laptop bag is the one that doesn't look like a typical laptop bag, and is thus less a target for theft. My wife's looks somewhat like a large diaper bag; that can certainly keep thieves at bay.

Negroponte Can Buy The African Family Their Cases

[RobotRunAmok]

I've been toting around the Haliburton for quite a while, and it's worth every penny. Not only does it get the job done (being lighter even than many leather and fabric cases I've used), but nothing sez "Here comes the Pro from Dover" quite like tossing that gunmetal bad boy up on to a table in a conference room filled with new clients and snapping 'er open. Tough to gauge, of course, but in the long run it may even have put more money back in my pocket than it took out in the first case.

Whassa matter, don't they teach "Dress for Success" in school anymore...?

Re:Don't use a bag that clearly has a laptop in...

[sarge apone]

I carry an obvious laptop case for work. I walk around Middle and High Schools in bad sections of the Bronx, and even bring it on the subway quite a few times, without incident.

I would prefer my wife carry her Nano in one of these "cool" laptop cases instead of the designer leather iPod case!

Binh and Crumpler are by far the best

[splatterboy]

I've got a Tom Binh brain cell http://www.tombihn.com/page/001/PROD/300/TB0300

Its a minimalist messenger affair, and a crumpler new school hymn for when I need to bring more than the bare essentials -

http://www.crumpler.com.au/cartIndex.php?prodId=23 6&prodType=Bag&catId=5

Its just a sleeve, it fits in my messenger bag and my backpack... The thing about most bags is that they are jus bags, these two have a hard plastic shell along with the foam - real support and protection. The only real problem is the Crumpler will not fit a macbook, only the powerbooks, so now I have to wait for them to make a macbook sized case.

I you live in a city (New York esp) and commute by train or on foot - carrying a briefcase sucks and carrying a hard case, backpack or attache suck - they're too heavy. The Binh is light as a feather and the crumpler on its own is closer to a protective "coating" and is an ultimate "stealth" option. Both have saved my 15" PB on more occasions than I care to remember.

So male centric...

[divxdawn]

Like another posted the subject is entirely misleading - but I'm still waiting for the cool female versions. None of these appealed to me as a female and as a shop-o-holic had one of them appealed to me I probably would have finally bought a cool one that fit my personality. As is, I went to Tumi this weekend to see if they had any cool laptop roller bags and they just introduced a new silver one they were hoping to appeal the female demographic with. Yeah, it was cool and I liked it way better than the basic black but it was over $600. Maybe I should start designing...

Re:So male centric...

[blondieeng]

Mod Parent Up! Three cheers for a female centric laptop bag. I was lucky enough to get one through the Thanks! award system where I work. Even though the thing is black, the styling is feminine and sets me apart from the males. Ladies, it is time we make our own designs. There are patterns out there to get you started on your own laptop bag. Try looking at the McCalls Pattern: M4531 That, and reverse engineerng cheap bags found at any thrift store will get you started. Hell, I am enthused enough to put my $3K sewing machine to use and make a few bags to sell for profit. I can even have initials monogrammed on the bag and have nice designs embroidered on them too. Guess what I'm doing after work tonight? I'll be SEW busy! It is also worthy of your time to check out the luggage section in Dillards (or other non *-Mart stores) because they are starting to carry stylish laptop cases for us ladies. We can remain intelligent and pretty without having to lug around a geek bag. Persistence pays off.

Applesac

[moosesocks]

This is my laptop case. It keeps my laptop snug and padded while it's in my backpack, or when I'm toting it from place to place.

It's small, distinctive, stylish, and does exactly, and only what it's intended to do. Carries my laptop and the power cord.

What's even nicer is that apart from the shape, nobody would ever guess it's a laptop sleeve.

And apart from that, the people who run the company are amazing people. Shortly after I ordered mine, I got mine, I got an email from the company informing me that they were running 2-3 days behind schedule because they ran out of material, and that they'd rush mail it to me once they got more in stock. Once I got it (ahead of schedule), inside the bag was a hand-written card addressed to me apologizing for the short delay. Very professional, and uber-friendly.

The Brain Bag

[BDaniels]

Get a Bihn Brain Cell. Then get the Brain Bag to put it in:
http://www.tombihn.com/page/001/PROD/300/TB0104

Need more organization? Add a Freudian Slip and a Snake Charmer.

I've been carrying this combo for years. All the pockets I need, tough, doesn't scream 'STEAL ME' like some of the bags mentioned here do. Fits under an airline seat. Has a chest and waist strap for long hikes through airports.

Not cheap, but what's your gear worth? And made in the USA.

save local, troll global

[Anonymous Coward]

yeah, give the gift of GOAT! The gift that just keeps on giving.

Re:save local, troll global

[Anonymous Coward]

There's no way I'm opening a link called Goat even if it does contain good news about this troll not working anymore.

What about the stuff I need to carry??

[clevergeek]

So I'm shopping for a laptop bag, and figure I'll browse over to /. and see how recently the topic had been posted...and it's the FIRST POST AT THE TOP OF THE SCREEN. Freaking scary. Anyway, my problem is this. I recently picked up a Dell E1705(9400), and although most decently large backpacks fit it, most don't fit it well. On top of this, as a network admin and do-it-all tech, I typically need quite a bit of gear to feel like I can provide catch-all solutions on-site. (cables, cd's, drives, docs, tools, etc...) NOTHING fits what I want to carry, yet again fits it well (enough pockets, nets, straps or whatever). Any hints? Although I've spent most of my work life under desks or in drop ceilings, I've just started a new gig and have been sporting a coat and tie...so a little style probably wouldn't hurt... Cliff

A Lappy Case for Indiana Jones

[Asakura_Joe]

It may not be an official computer bag, but I think that this bag beats any of those 10, hands down.

I've never seen a laptop bag say "badass" more clearly. Or ever, actually.

padded sleeves

[Anonymous Coward]

Rather than a laptop-oriented bag, I like the form-fitting sleeves, usually neoprene, that'll work with any bag. I've got a big backpack and a small messenger bag which I use as circumstances warrant. I don't want yet another bag that's going to impose its own limitations when I want to carry a laptop.

Is it just me...

[aafiske]

Or are their tastes a little backwards?

I mean, the Haliburton case looks like something that's filled with toy-tools for your 6 year old nephew. And the Oakley? Mad max? Nothing says post-apocalyptic to me than 'Oakley'. And the 'level 4 restricted'? I see we have moved on from the 6 year olds to the 14 year old marketing category.

Finally... the number one spot. A case that looks like a reject from a 70s design company. Who would walk around like that? Can you picture someone on the street carrying one of those? Exactly what suit or outfit would one be wearing to match a cedar briefcase? As much as I love wood-paneled station wagons, I never wanted to _look_ like one.

Don't get me wrong, the padded-grey-yawn that most laptop cases could do with a lot of improvement. But these aren't it.

Re:Is it just me...

[identity0]

Personally, I would just get one of the first-generation "fruity" iBooks and put a fluffy toilet seat cover on it. It even comes with its own carry handle! I know I've never broken a toilet by dropping it, have you?

Actually, a case made of Duplo or Lego blocks would be cool. Or Lincoln logs.

What did you expect?

[Anonymous Coward]

It's the same site that made a list of top geek watches without a binary display watch, computer watches, or any SF related watches.

STM Alley Bag

[WiseWeasel]

It's all about STM laptop bags, in particular, the Alley model. You can buy them for reasonable prices in the US from Radtech. They cost $45, and fit my MacBook Pro 15.5" lappy perfectly. These are definitely the most stylish bags I was able to find after an hour's worth of googling... You don't have to look like a tool just to carry your favorite tool with you...

functionality

[Elwood P Dowd]

My dad is religious about his Tumi laptop case. It's not particularly cool, and it's a bit overpriced, but boy is it extremely functional. Every zipper feels right, it's very durable, and it isn't too bulky. What converted me was how nicely the handles have worn.

http://www.tumi.com/business_laptop_cases/laptop_c ases_non_wheeled/category_search/small_expandable_ computer_brief/product_detail/index.cfm?modelid=57 315

They have better looking designs, and I hate to admit I trust their brand:

http://www.tumi.com/business_laptop_cases/laptop_c ases_non_wheeled/category_search/index.cfm?fuseact ion=searching&Nso=&Ns=&itemsPerPage=1000&N=4005+20 026325&Ne=100&order=ORDER_COUNT

Could someone recommend a good portable?

[ClarkEvans]

My age old dell latitude (maintenance nightmare) is at the end of its life... I've run out of spare parts from 2-3 of its brothers I picked up from a previous employer. It's time I got a new Laptop. Any recommendations?

My only requirement is that it has a 15" screen, a full-sized keyboard, and is compatible /w FreeBSD.

I can't believe no one mentioned Brenthaven

[pillohead]

First of all this is based on the knowledge I obtained while selling luggage about 7-8 years ago, so as per usual YMMV. Back in those days Brenthaven made the best bags to offer drop protection to your laptop. The owner or president or whatever Harvey Stone would come into our shop and demonstrate by dropping his bag with his laptop in it and then pulling it out and booting it up to show there was no damage. If the cases are too expensive, then check out the laptop sleeves, they have decent 20 dollar jobbys that will really work. I got a hundred dollar http://www.brenthaven.com/catalog-glove.htmllaptop glove for my bro in the army back in 2000 and he still has it. They're made with great materials up in Bellingham Washington and their warranty is phenomenal. They used to be fanatical about customer service, I bet they still are.

Also I have an older Halliburton 5" case and by itself that thing weighs a pretty good amount. If I throw in my latitude c800 with a 15" screen with both batteries and charger it's ridiculously heavy. The Halliburtons look cool but if you have to do any walking further than from your car to the client then forget it. They're damned impressive in interviews, that first impression with that bad boy and you'll be sure they won't forget you.

Why do they all seem to say

[Anonymous Coward]

...17 inch bags for the 17 incher in you?

Oh, wait...

Re:Don't use a bag that clearly has a laptop in...

[chaos_echo]

...unless you want to be mugged!

I use it to lure muggers, then beat the crap out of them with the bag because my laptop weighs a ton.

Watch the people who get on the plane first

[Dr. Brad]

Have a look at what the hard-core road warriors carry -- the folks with airline status that lets them get on the plane first. You'll see one briefcase/backpack brand more than any other: Tumi. Yeah, they're expensive -- $150-600 and they never discount 'em, but they're guaranteed for life.

It will take killer abuse, protect the contents, and stay good looking doing it. I've destroyed TravelPro stuff without ever checking it. My Tumi just gets that happy 50-mission look.

They also have ones that are more suitable for the civilized gender.

The best part is that it comes witht the little talked-about Tumi SpaceWarp(TM) technology. Somehow these suckers are smaller on the outside and larger on the inside than anything else I've used. I can't believe they don't mention this in the brochures.

Take care,
brad

Re:Don't use a bag that clearly has a laptop in...

[legirons]

Start by getting a properly small laptop, rather then the "luggable" computers Dell make, then you can put it in a normal bag with room to spare...

messenger bag

[Anonymous Coward]

Timbuk2 http://www.timbuk2.com/ makes a good bag, and if you ride a motorcycle or bicycle its got a strap to hold tight and not flop around like most messengers

Just InCase...

[fithmo]

Just wanted to add to the list.

I have a sleeve from InCase that I like very much.

It has a little divider for papers, a large pocket with enough room for a mouse and powersupply, a small pocket without enough room for anything, and a little cd sized pocket I carry an Ubuntu live CD in. It seems somewhat like those Crumpler bags so many people are suggesting.

WalMart carries a great diaper bag

[Anonymous Coward]

for $15. It holds my laptop, Nikon D70s, 4 lenses, filters, and lunch, and it doesn't scream out $4000 WORTH OF STUFF! It's sturdy, waterproof, and not a theft target.

Has both over the shoulder and backpack style straps.

Re:Don't use a bag that clearly has a laptop in...

[techno-vampire]

...or really want it to get stolen. When I bought my laptop, the salesdroid told me it didn't come with a case, so I bought one as well. (He was wrong; big surprise.) The one I bought doesn't look at all like a laptop case, it looks like the sort of satchel you might use to carry papers and a few books. The one I found in the box with the laptop was very obviously a laptop case. I ended up giving it to a friend who needed one.

Inspiron 9300

[JabberWokky]

With everybody making suggestions, anybody know of a good case for the Inspiron 9300? 17" WUXGA screen... I'm a big guy and have zero problems hauling it around (I regularly carry a stack of books with me that easily outweighs any laptop), but I've found few cases that fit the beast. Preferably something I can toss a couple folders and/or four composition/sketch books into.

--
Evan "Bonus if it is waterpoof"

Re:Inspiron 9300

[Andy Dodd]

Backpacks for 17" machines are hard to come by.

That said, I just bought a Targus XL and it's VERY nice.

Re:Inspiron 9300

[JabberWokky]

For what it's worth, I've been though most of the links in this discussion, and the best I've found so far for nice cases that support very large laptops is Booq Bags. This link goes right to the cases that fit the 9300.

--
Evan

just a backpack with some bubblewrap

[schweini]

i simply took an old jansport backpack, duct-taped some packing foam together so that my laptop fits nicely into it, put some (replaceable) bubblewrap around the edges for added protection, and put that into the backpack. i could swear that my laptop is better schock-protected that way, and noone would guess what's in that bag. added benefit is that i can put the laptop inside the bag and get it out than any other 'real' laptop bag i've seen, and people actually think this solution is 'cooler' and more professional when i take out my laptop at meetings,because they instantly understand that it actually makes sense.

I changed to a backpack

[EmbeddedJanitor]

I used to have a "doctor's bag", but being an embedded developer I soon found that this bag was getting full of all kinds of other shit like serial cables, power supplies, debuggers etc.

Recently our IS department switched to good quality backpacks. These are far easier to carry around than a hand bag and hold all the extra crap well too.

The laptop bag Jack Bauer would carry!

[Anonymous Coward]

Only the suits at DHS would carry their laptops in Halliburton cases, any tactical guy would the MIB Bag http://www.c4i.org/mib-bag.html

Professional laptop briefbag

[NovaX]

This list misses a crucial function: some of us work and want to look professional. These would all be fun to show to friends, and I'm sure some college kids would love taking their laptop to a LAN party in a wooden case. But at work, where being technically-oriented already causes you to be disregarded by management, you need to look and act professional.

I personally love my briefbag. Its a bit costly, but if I'm going to use something every day, I prefer it to be nice.

Freitag

[vilbel]

Especially for Apple notebook, Freitag bags http://www.freitag.ch/ are the way to go. They are made from recycled truck tarpaulin and each peace is unique.

Sumdex

[grandrollerz]

I just won a Sumdex bag at a conference this past weekend. They seem to have an extensive lineup of bags.

Re:Don't use a bag that clearly has a laptop in...

[sammy baby]

You're aware that Dell makes some fairly small laptops themselves, right?

I'm not a big fan, but my wife has the 710 and is pretty happy with it.

teh perfect disguise....

[Anonymous Coward]

There's a plethora of bags designed just for women!

Re:teh perfect disguise....

[divxdawn]

LOL great are you sure your not my boyfriend? This is very his style :p

AXIO Bags ROCK!

[1336.5]

I bought an AXIO bag (the hybrid model) about 6 months ago. This thing absolutley ROCKS!

Here is the address from the Apple store.

AXIO Hybrid bag

I love my MEC Darwin daypack/laptop case

[sherpajohn]

I wanted something I could use to carry my laptop to work, and use as a daypack when travelling, or shopping - so I got this:

http://www.mec.ca/Products/product_detail.jsp?PROD UCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524442280621&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder _id=2534374302699713&bmUID=1144269078394

Serves me very well, and it stealthy too - sure does not look like a laptop case!

Mystery Meat

[gihan_ripper]

The "impossible to navigate due to random icons and no labels" design technique is informally referred to as mystery meat navigation (presumably in analogy to an unlabelled tin of meat). I used to have semi-mystery meat icons on my homepage too until I realised that it looked like poop.

How about some more specific lists?

[Thumper_SVX]

These bags all seem extremely "College Student Cool" in both form and function, none of them meet my personal needs and desires.

My needs for a laptop bag were simple when I went shopping; (a) Must be resilient, (b) must be weatherproof, (c) must provide reasonable storage for things other than my laptop (papers, pens, power supply, cordless mouse) and (d) be unobtrusive when worn.

Although my final choice of the http://www.axio-usa.com/Axio Tekno backpack was not cheap, it has met all of the above requirements and then some. Understand that through 9 months of the year I ride a motorcycle. That's the source of at least two of the requirements I specified. As such, the Axio does brilliantly; it puts most of the weight evenly distributed through the my torso so I don't feel any pressure points and I'm pretty evenly balanced. It also swallows a surprising amount of stuff as well as my laptop... and it's taken quite a beating. I even travelled through England with it last year on a motorcycle... over 1200 miles of riding in two weeks with that on my back, not to mention the significant amount of walking I did during the trip. That in itself told me the backpack was a good investment.

It's also outlasted my last laptop, ironically. My old Dell Latitude bit the dust a few weeks back (though when I was on my trip I had a slower but lighter Toshiba Portege that is my Linux laptop at home) and I've replaced it with a newer D610 that has the same dimensions but thankfully weighs less! The case is still almost pristine, except for scratches and nicks on the hard shell. It may not be "cool" in the sense this article is trying to push the idea... but it's cool for me because it meets my needs.

So how about it? A review of laptops bags from a few different perspectives? The college student, the businessman, the outdoor type, the motorcyclist... I'm sure others spring to mind easily and quickly and they all have different requirements.

I hear a standard USPS mail envelope works better.

[Anonymous Coward]

They cost around USD 0.64 and everyone need not afford more security than that (without giving up any safety) or else they'll deserve neither security or safety while they troll the Quaker gOatse from the Starbucks of a city in Soviet Russia.

My neighbor works for UPS and I've safely sent a box having more duct-tape than cardboard rolled around it, and the 486 computer was delivered without damage.

Exactly 6 days ago, my neighbor had three different parcel carriers arrive at his house to deliver the goods; they were all like "hey" and "hey" and "what's up mutha fukkas?" and like woah they were more expensive than this ol' USPS mail envelope.

Re:Don't use a bag that clearly has a laptop in...

[SuperMog2002]

I literally burst out laughing at that. If I had mod points, you'd get them.

Vanguard aluminum cases

[gizmo_mathboy]

Why spend a ton of cash on a Zero Halliburton. Vanguard has a bunch of cases you can typically find for around $40-$60.

I have a small case for my Vaio SR7K and a large case for my Thinkpad T43.

The smaller case would fit in most backpacks just fine. The larger case is a problem because of the dimensions, 13"x18"x3". The Oakley backpack looks promising but the $150 price tag is a lot.

Then again, spending about $200 to protect and carry a $2,000 laptop is a good deal in my book.

Technology news?

[Anonymous Coward]

Is /. finally feeling pressure from Digg, or what? Avoiding pointless/spam crap like this is why I normally favor this site.

Technology news this ain't.

Cool? - The one and only really cool case is ...

[be_kul]

not one of those millions of bag-packs or crumbling crumblers that look one like the other. It's also not one of these heavy "armed" cases by Halliburton etc. The one thing that really really looks (and is) cool is: Second Alu Skin, available e.g. in Germany from www.arktis.de -- ok, sorry, it is for 15" PowerBooks only (the ones for 17" are sold out) ... but how many other cool laptops deserving a cool case are really out there ? :-) In fact: almost everybody looks around - and nobody guesses that it's really a laptop _in_ there. Sometimes you'll get asked: "Is that a laptop?" (They mean: the case itself is one ...) - Ok, there is no space in it except for the PowerBook itself, but Apple's small Power supply fits in almost every jacket pocket. And does one really need more to carry around? In the times of the "paperless bureau"? - I really do hope they go on producing those nice cases also for the new line of Apple laptops. One small problem: It is not one of the bullet-proof shock-protected cases. But, men! You are carrying around your second most important thing. So one could expect that you take a little bit of care? Are you wearing helmets because one day, maybe, there may fall a stone from heaven on your head? If your laptop is an expensive and important tool for your work and your daily compagnon also during the rest of the day (ok, no-one would a Dell or [you name them] have in sight longer than absolutely necessary ...), you should care for it a little bit. If you do so, you do not really need a bullet- and water-proof, shock-protected, hard-cover back-pack that other people rather would use for sliding down the snow fields on a glacier ...

Re:Don't use a bag that clearly has a laptop in...

[Captain DaFt]

Hmm, how about a bag that'd scare muggers away? (Genuine faux human skin!)

http://www.skinbag.net/skinbag-gb/fiches/F-compute r.php
http://www.skinbag.net/skinbag-gb/fiches/F-urban.p hp

Tres cool, in a disgusting sort of way.

Re:Don't use a bag that clearly has a laptop in...

[Bowling Moses]

Looks like the perfect accessory for the P-P-P-Powerbook.

I love my Zero case but...

[JakiChan]

It scratches *really* easy.

When I got my TiBook in 2002 I got one of these cases in the "gunmetal" color. Come on, we've always wanted one...in the movies they're always carrying guns. Or money. Or drugs. Or some combination thereof.

I picked up one from a discount place in Union Square, so I didn't pay full price, and I started using it. It's nowhere near as functional as, say, a Timbuk2 bag. You can't cram as much crap in. But it looks damn cool. And it does provide great protection.

Shorly after I got it I was on my way to London for a business trip. I figured what better time to use a case like that then when lugging my crap through the airport? Well it did protect things well. But there were two downsides. First of all, it gets attention. Thieves might want it, and everyone else looks at you funny because of the aforementioned movie roles as carriers of drugs and guns and money. When that seatbelt sign goes off and you pull it out, your seatmate will wonder if you're about to take over the aircraft. The other problem is that it scratches easily. I put it under the seat, and when I pulled it out it had scratches all over it from the metal under the seat. So if you get one get the bare aluminium which won't show scratches nearly as much.

To be honest, when going to work I use a Tumi Safecase bag. Pretty much standard business issue these days. They never show wear, are incredibly functional, and well suited for business travel - just look at home many you see on your next flight. For other stuff I still use a Timbuk2 bag - can't beat it for street gear.

Use this for your laptop instead! Mugger proof!

[Mr. Flibble]

Try this briefcase (Scroll down to see pics) and never worry about being mugged for your laptop again!

Cases?

[bmo]

The highest rated one was the Japanese wooden attache' case?

Why not get one made in the US with custom carving?

http://www.gerstnerusa.com/attache/attache.htm

Now, that's art.

--
BMO

DIY Custom-made Laptop and Notebook Bags

[wehe]

Just in case you want a custom-made model, here are some links to do-it-yourself instructions for selfmade laptop and notebook bags and backpacks. Currently only three HOWTOs but I am confident there will be more soon.

Yep, the Voltaic Messenger it is

[stargazerr]

Though I think the Maloo Wrap and the Oakley SI Vertical Computer Bag are kinda cool too ... in their own ways ... :D

Top 10 Coolest Laptop Cases

[sheehanam]

Should be tilted the top ten dumpest laptop cases. Maybe I just don't understand the definition of cool because these things just look like briefcases, backpack, and pillow cases that can hold laptops. However, there is one that I do think is kinda cool, number 7. It looks like a cigar box that goes on a desk.

Re:Don't use a bag that clearly has a laptop in...

[Gleemonex]

Not if you don't mind being the first person ever to be mugged by a stoner.

-Glee

Re:Negroponte Can Buy The African Family Their Cas

[955301]

I guess I just need to take a picture of the $100 jobbie I was talking about. It's stamped aluminum, not the pieced together garbage you can find for $30. It fits my 17" notebook, and I have carried it back and forth to client's offices for years with great success.

And I get the same effect you mentioned when breaking it out. Nobody will let me leave it in their meeting room and step out for fear of it exploding or something.

A good affordable case

[955301]

Just found another one of these at Office Depot - they are on clearance right now for $75. It's a Samsonite SA-940088. This case is big enough for a 17" widescreen notebook and sturdy enough to take the occasional wall or desk corner.

I almost bought a second one, just because. The only complaint I have is the strap - it didn't last long. But the case itself makes me confident enough to tote my main system around in.

Happy Shopping! Save your money!

Re:Don't use a bag that clearly has a laptop in...

[legirons]

You're aware that Dell makes some fairly small laptops themselves, right?

This sort of thing? I've just been looking at Dell systems, and they seem quite heavy and expensive compared to Sharp ones.