[Uisce]

I am wondering who likes what in the world of laptop sleeves, as I am interested in getting one. Please post your comments regarding the fit, finish, and opinions of your laptop sleeve! (no bags please)

I am looking hard at this one, link , but would like people's opinions of others.

Thanks,

[AssassyN]

I have the JamBags Silver Sleeve for my 12" PowerBook and I must say I LOVE it! The fit is very nice...slides in snuggly, the velco strip closely fully w/ no excessive overhang, covers the entire PB well. The innards are very soft, not a doubt that it won't scratch my machine. The view windows is SWEET showing the Apple logo through it...plus, it's silver, like my PB. I wouldn't get a different one, I give it 5 stars.

[Uisce]

Yeah, I saw that one too. It looks like a big pillow! How "fluffy" is it? I guess they just have bad pictures of it on the website. How thick is it with the computer in? Are there any extra pockets for say a power cube?

[CrazedVW]

I agree with AssassyN. I had a Jambags sleeve for my 12" iBook and it was perfect for use in a backpack.
I wanted to get one for my 15" Powerbook but was told that they're not shipping until September and I need something now since school starts next week. I'm looking now at getting something from Booq although they're more expensive.

[TiUser]

We bought the incase sleeve for my wife's iBook. It is very snug and seems to protect well. Also, right now you can get 50% off when ordering from incase (as reported by ipodlounge.com). I just ordered a MoyaPak (for that elusive Rev. B 12" PB) and the third generation iPod leather case with UPS shipping for $50.

[elysian]

I have an Ogio Brain Bucket which exactly fits my 15" PB. I got it from someone on ebay for $10.

[beachmark]

When I only have to take my 17inch with me i use my Incase sleeve, after putting it first in its Radiotech one. Do I haveto take more with me I use a Tucano sleeve and stich it then in another bigger bag where I also have my other goodies.

The Tucano is very well designed and very well fitting, You can notice that it is Italian design (do I need to say more???)

Now I have to find a good case for my new 30gig Ipos and I am ready (for the coming weeks)

[Tomster]

I have the Timbuk2 XXL sleeve. Great padding and protection. The fit is perfect and if you are rough on the equipment, then this is the sleeve for you. I also have the Waterfield Designs sleeve. Much more elegant product. Fantastic workmanship and quality. Less protection than the Timbuk2, but can be used as a carry alone bag (with all options).

[jonasmac]

I've had three sleeve cases since I got my powerbooks.

1. Spire Boot www.spireusa.com
Perfect fit. Great protection for my first Powerbook. I got it along with the Spire Icon. Best backpack I've owned to date.

2. Marware Sportfolio www.marware.com
Adequate protection, however, I prefer the feel of ballistic nylon to neoprene. The pockets are stretchy so you can fit a suprising amount of accessories, magazines, file folders etc.

3. Booqcase Powersleeve www.booqbags.com
This fits my 12" Powerbook nearly perfectly. I feel it really protects my investment. The zippered pockets are real thin. No way I could fit the power adapter or cords or even a magazine. I'd have no problems carrying it around as it is, but the strap is a little too thin for my tastes. Makes it feel like a purse. I just put it in a bigger bag, to protect my manhood.


--jonas

[CrazedVW]

I just checked that out. Its perfect. I'm going by my reseller tomorrow and ordering one from them. (Save $10 on shipping and support them too.) That looks just as good as the JamBag I had for my iBook. Thanks for sharing that.

Originally posted by jonasmac:

1. Spire Boot www.spireusa.com
Perfect fit. Great protection for my first Powerbook. I got it along with the Spire Icon. Best backpack I've owned to date.
--jonas

[Uisce]

Thanks for all the replies so far. So far I really like the Booq Powersleeve, but they are out of stock for a month, so it looks like they are out of the running.

The Marware Sportfolio is nice too, although the Spire Flux , at only 2" thick, looks like a good deal for me. It will carry my PB as well as a power cube, and I can use it either in another bag or by itself pretty easily.

Has anyone else done this with their Spire Flux?

[AssassyN]

Originally posted by Uisce:
Yeah, I saw that one too. It looks like a big pillow! How "fluffy" is it? I guess they just have bad pictures of it on the website. How thick is it with the computer in? Are there any extra pockets for say a power cube?

It's not overly thick at all, just enough protection. However it's ONLY a sleeve, NO room for anything other than a computer.

[Commodus]

It's not quite a sleeve that I have, but it's definitely not a traditional laptop bag either: you can get a SET bag from Ikea for very little (about $10 Canadian) and it fits the 15" PowerBook very snugly. I haven't had any scratches, and I'm only really following basic steps to keep the laptop safe (don't put anything in the same compartment, keep the top of the system towards the smooth surface inside the bag, etc.). A tremendous deal for someone who doesn't need to haul their whole office with them, just the laptop and a few extras.

[jonasmac]

Originall posted by CrazedVW:
I just checked that out. Its perfect. I'm going by my reseller tomorrow and ordering one from them. (Save $10 on shipping and support them too.) That looks just as good as the JamBag I had for my iBook. Thanks for sharing that.

No problem.

--jonas

[ngrundy]

I personally use a Crumpler sleave. i don't think they sell the exact model i have anymore. The closest one i can find listed on their website is the "McBains Lovechild".

it's quite compact but can hold quite a lot of kit.

apart from the tibook in the front pocket of my sleave I currently have ...

- 2x wireless network cards (for when i need to attach external antennas)
- 1x 10/100 pcmcia ethernet card, no idea why its in there though.
- Laptop power brick with the full length cord
- 1x zip disk
- 1x CDR of debian-3.0r1
- the DVI->VGA cable
- Svideo -> composite cable

usually i don't have the power brick but every thing else is usually in there and i probably need to have a clean out

edit: http://www.crumpler.com.au/

[DigitalEl]

Booqcase Powersleeve www.booqbags.com
This fits my 12" Powerbook nearly perfectly. I feel it really protects my investment. The zippered pockets are real thin. No way I could fit the power adapter or cords or even a magazine. I'd have no problems carrying it around as it is, but the strap is a little too thin for my tastes. Makes it feel like a purse.

I solved this by physically cutting the purse-like mini-strap off my PowerSleeve and replacing it with a more robust strap from another bag.

Only problem is, I've officially given up on the Booq sleeve and am using the new strap on its original bag. The sleeve really does fit the 12" like a glove and the fit & finish is great. It's just too small for much else. Like the guy I quoted above said, don't even plan on carrying a magazine with this one! Still, if anybody wants a 12" Booq PowerSleeve without the straps, private message me with an offer.

[tpxstyle]

www.sfbags.com waterford design sleeves... custom made to fit the powerbook and they look fantastic. don't bother with other sleeves, this is the one... fantastic protection, plus its not too bulky and not too thin its perfect!

[threestain]

I have the Tucano sleeve for my TiSD - its really good and snug, and just got that little bit of protection. I think you should get a case that's doesn't make the slim well designed powerbook into an ugly pc beast - well that's what I was after anyway (and besides difficult to get the others over here in UK)

[riverfreak]

Originally posted by tpxstyle:
www.sfbags.com waterford design sleeves... custom made to fit the powerbook and they look fantastic. don't bother with other sleeves, this is the one... fantastic protection, plus its not too bulky and not too thin its perfect!

I just checked them out on their website - that's pretty cool that you can order it in a horizontal or vertical orientation.

A vertical orientation is perfect for backpacks - you don't have to pull a vertical sleeve out of the pack every time you want to access the 'puter. Nice touch. I'm sold. $11 cheaper than the timbuk2, too.

[jetta_gt]

i've posted this so many times, but i like my sleeve so much that i'll post it again. sfbags sleeve is the only way to go. the things are seriously bulletproof.

[appleseed]

Not to be pedantic, but the shoulder strap on the PowerSleeve is detachable, so there should be no need to physically cut the strap. Although I would have been tempted for similar reasons, had detaching the strap not been an option.

I've used the "SleeveCase" from Waterfield Designs, and have found it to be well constructed...that is until I dropped my backpack with sleeved-up TiPB inside. The exposed top portion took the brunt of the modest fall, and now I have a warped case near the internal drive. So, if you do decide to go with the SleeveCase, make sure that you add the 'Ballistic Flap' option.

Anyway, just bought the PowerSleeve, and it certainly provides superior protection, but does have the common problem--at least amongst sleeves made from ballistic nylon--of a rough inner seam being in contact with the Powerbook. Will keep it though, because I'll just add a small piece of lining to militate against harm.

Originally posted by DigitalEl:
[B]
I solved this by physically cutting the purse-like mini-strap off my PowerSleeve and replacing it with a more robust strap from another bag.

Only problem is, I've officially given up on the Booq sleeve and am using the new strap on its original bag. The sleeve really does fit the 12" like a glove and the fit & finish is great. It's just too small for much else. Like the guy I quoted above said, don't even plan on carrying a magazine with this one! Still, if anybody wants a 12" Booq PowerSleeve without the straps, private message me with an offer.

[veganpower88]

I have a Timbuk2 XXL sleeve for my 17". Rigid construction, tight fit, a 1/2 inch thickness to every side for protection and NO ZIPPERS!!! I wouln't slide my notebook into in sleeve that had zippers. The timbuk is great and the handles make it nice for carrying outside of my bag.

[DigitalEl]

Not to be pedantic, but the shoulder strap on the PowerSleeve is detachable, so there should be no need to physically cut the strap. Although I would have been tempted for similar reasons, had detaching the strap not been an option.

Perhaps I should've been more clear. The straps are indeed detachable, but then you'd have no hooks left to attach a new strap... Unless you found one with the exact same size plastic part. The only way to leave the plastic "eyehooks" in place, is to cut the Booq strap.

It certainly wasn't a very elegant solution, I'll be the first to admit... But I didn't have any plastic parts to make my makeshift setup work otherwise.

[The Placid Casual]

*...back temporarily*

My 15" Booq Powersleeve should be sent out today... (I only ordered because they took Paypal, and UI had some money in my account.)

I'll post a 'mini' review when I get it through... although they have messed me about already with delivery and availability issues...

Peace,

Marc

[jonasmac]

Booq does have some customer service issues. Living in Guam, I try to get everything shipped to me via USPS because mail rates are the same as though domestic.

Booq doesn't have that option on their website, so they told me to choose the expedited deliver option and they'd send it USPS. Shipping cost me near $20, but my Yaobook needed protection, so.....

After 2 weeks and several emails asking where my Powersleeve was left unanswered, the package arrived. The kicker? The USPS shipping label said $6!

I promptly requested a refund of the shipping difference via email. No reply from them. A followup email was sent 3 days later. Still no reply. The next day I got a Paypal notification with the refunded amount, but nothing from Booq Customer Service. Not very professional. I did get my money back, and my Yaobook is safe and sound.
I will NOT order from Booq again, though.

--jonas

[kstor]

If you do a search, you will find many threads dealing with cases and sleeves.

I personally think it depends on your usage. I never carry the laptop alone, so I figured I didn't need to pay extra for a strap or stuff like that. On the other hand, I wanted it to fit perfectly (ie not a 12pb OR ibook sleeve) and provide good padding.

Judging from previous comments, I went for the sfbags sleevecase, and I am VERY satisfied. It's exactly what I needed: perfect fit, good padding, lightweight and relatively cheap too.
I'd recommend them anytime.

KStor

[appleseed]

Guess mileage does vary, since I ordered my PowerSleeve on 5th August, and received it on the 14th, despite the website indicating that shipping would be from 15th onwards. Also, they only charged $16 for shipping to UK. All paid using PayPal.

Sent an email asking for confirmation that the order had been received. Email response was same day. I was actually wary when placing the original order because others have mentioned problems with poor communication. Still, it seems that they can get it right.

Originally posted by jonasmac:
Booq does have some customer service issues. Living in Guam, I try to get everything shipped to me via USPS because mail rates are the same as though domestic.

Booq doesn't have that option on their website, so they told me to choose the expedited deliver option and they'd send it USPS. Shipping cost me near $20, but my Yaobook needed protection, so.....

After 2 weeks and several emails asking where my Powersleeve was left unanswered, the package arrived. The kicker? The USPS shipping label said $6!

I promptly requested a refund of the shipping difference via email. No reply from them. A followup email was sent 3 days later. Still no reply. The next day I got a Paypal notification with the refunded amount, but nothing from Booq Customer Service. Not very professional. I did get my money back, and my Yaobook is safe and sound.
I will NOT order from Booq again, though.

--jonas

[dreamBweaver]

I got a Waterfield Designs 12" sleeve from www.sfbags.com It's very padded and fits the PB well. I trust it. Definitely look at the options (flap, etc.) because they can make the sleeve fit just right in your bag.

[NightEyes]

My Waterfield 17" sleeve has been great!

Nothing could be better when combined with a Cargo Bag

[Spheric Harlot]

Originally posted by veganpower88:
I have a Timbuk2 XXL sleeve for my 17". Rigid construction, tight fit, a 1/2 inch thickness to every side for protection and NO ZIPPERS!!! I wouln't slide my notebook into in sleeve that had zippers. The timbuk is great and the handles make it nice for carrying outside of my bag.

I love my 12" timbuk2 sleeve.

really rigid, just the clip, so to get it outta the backpack is literally just a *snap*. It's survived a bike crash with me landing on my back pack.

Highly recommended!

-s*

[mrmister]

I have two of them--an InCase sleeve when i want to bring the adapter and a mouse, and a simple Waterfield Designs sleeve when I want just the laptop. Works great, and being able to make it really light when I wish to is nice.

[The Placid Casual]

My issues with Booq stem from the ordering process... I am really tolerant, but things were brought into perspective when I compared the Booq order with the one I placed with Radtech at the same time...

With Booq, I followed the link at the top of the page, and saw that the 15" Powersleeve was shown as 'in stock'. I paid by paypal.

After 3 days I emailed them to ask them to confirm they had my order... In fairness they did reply within a few hours, but told me that the order wouldn't ship until 'around the 15th August'... I had ordered on the 3rd.

I asked why there was a delay, and was told I had visited their incorrect site, and that was the cause of the delay! I really need the case by 27th August, but things are looking bleak, and I am getting pissed about it all as I'm sure I would have received any of the other brand sleeves by now.

Anyway, I still have no shipping confirmation, and no idea when I will receive the case... not good.

When I ordered from Radtech, I received an order confirmation from them within 10 minutes, and the items have been with me (and used) for over a week!

I'm so far not impressed.

Peace,

Marc

[Uisce]

Well, it sounds like Booq is definitely out now. I have looked at all these cases, and is it seems like the Spire Flux is still the case for me. I think it will be a good compromise between a straight up sleeve and a small bag that will let me carry a power adapter with the computer.

[Stogieman]

Originally posted by jetta_gt:
i've posted this so many times, but i like my sleeve so much that i'll post it again. sfbags sleeve is the only way to go. the things are seriously bulletproof.

Agreed! I've had mine for over a year now and it still looks brand new. This sleeve offers great protection and the quality is just superb. I highly recommend it.

[ae77]

Originally posted by Stogieman:
Agreed! I've had mine for over a year now and it still looks brand new. This sleeve offers great protection and the quality is just superb. I highly recommend it.

I third that sfbags recommendation. Very good quality.

[Spheric Harlot]

The timbuk2 sleeve is an excellent option if you'll only be transporting the 'book within another bag. I'll always have it in my backpack, so I love the slipcase's sturdiness and single-clip design. I can just leave the sleeve in the bag.

I'd hate to have to pull the whole thing out of the bag and then pry open another sleeve to get at the book.

This may seem like a minor niggle, but I got my Powerbook to take it everywhere I go, so these little annoyances do add up.

Something to consider.

(Linky. They say $50, but I only paid €40 for my black 12" sleeve at a local store.)

-s*

[clam2000]

Another vote for Timbuk2

I got my 12" case for 30$ (plus sales tax)

--will

[tritonus]

I first bought a PowerSleeve 17 from booqbags.com but sent it back for a refund. The strap is too thin to use.

I then went for sfbags.com's SleeveCase with Flap and D-rings/strap. I'm very happy with it. Excellent customer service, too.

[The Placid Casual]

Well the Powersleeve turned up in the post this morning... It was surprise it is here so soon to be sure, but I'm not complaining!

Overall it is impressive (if not very impressive). It is very durable and I can see it lasting a *very* long time and still looking good at the end of it. The materials and things are well up to the task and the styling also has a good effect in the flesh. I can't see it looking dated any time soon.

The shoulder strap is indeed a bit thin, but well up to standard for the 15". I plan on using the Powersleeve as an actual 'sleeve' anyway without the strap, so it will always be inside another bag... For this the setup seems to be perfect.

Padding wise, it is pretty good. All corners and sides of the Powerbook are well protected... I have no worries it will keep the machine safe and sound over time.

As for spare carrying capacity, hmmm, there is not much. You could fit a magazine and a few CDs, *maybe* a power adaptor, but much nothing more substantial... I only usually carry a spare Battery, CD-RW, wallet, cell phone and a Boot CD, and it will do these with ease. However if you are looking for a fully featured mobile powerbook and 'accessory station' it is not for you... I will pretty much always put the sleeve in a messenger bag with all my other stuff so I am fine with the lack of storage space although it could be an issue for others with more specific needs.

The Powersleeve seems to offer a 'halfway house' between a SF style 'sleeve' and a stand alone 'portable bag'. There will always be compromises with this idea in mind, but I am impressed with what I have seen so far...

Overall I am very happy!

Peace,

Marc

[Arkham_c]

I have a MarWare SportFolio II and I love it.

I've been using it to haul my book to/from work for almost 2 years and it still looks like new and still works great.

More info here:

http://www.marware.com/Overview_N_Laptop.html

[tomasboudr]

I have a sfbag, the ordering process was wuick and I recieved my bag in like 5 days without paying anything extra for shipping. The bag fits my 12 inch perfectly. All is good in the lasnd of 12 inch, I really like the vertical orientation option and the strap is definately quality.

[Freeflyer]

Waterfield designs (sfbags) rock.

We now have 3 of them and an ipod case. Beautifully made, great people to do business with and the best product for the job.

J.