[ChillieMac]

I know there's a sticky with bags/cases, but that has too general advice, little details, talks about cases that aren't necessarily available anymore or have way different prioirities than I do.

Anyone here know one or more web sites that review laptop cases and other accessories?

I am looking for a laptop case that with the following priorities:

1) Protection - I get around Chicago as a freelancce graphic arts pro, via the CTA (public transit, bus/train) which due to rough driving (sudden & violent stops and starts, overcrowding and pushy people, bags end up bumping into other people and the hard edge seating. I am looking for great padding, maybe an interior hard shell in the pocket area which would be suspended (not touching the bottom or sides, maybe also a removeable sleeve with shoulder strap). The one extreme I'd like to avoid is the completely hardshell type briefcase style...I still want a flexible messenger/folio style...just with tough materials, great padding and laptop pouch suspension to protect my expensive investments.

2) Storage - I need a bag that will accomodate the PB 15" AL, AC adapter, Security cable, CoolPodium, Mouse, iPod, spare battery misc cables, a few blank cds, critical backup cds, digital camera, exterior cell phone pocket, a couple of magazines, keys, business cards. Padding for accessories would be great, but not essential. Smart division of pockets for their purpose would be great and quick access to my PB even better.

3) Comfortable - that would mean lightweight (under 5.25 lbs) with a well padded, maybe stretchy shoulder strap.

4) Cool Looking - So subjective...maybe a choice of colors, but I've successfully dyed bookbags in the past.


Any first hand experiences, especially where mishaps occured and how well it protected your PB or iBook would be appreciated.

Thanks!

[azdude]

Originally posted by ChillieMac:
I know there's a sticky with bags/cases, but that has too general advice, little details, talks about cases that aren't necessarily available anymore or have way different prioirities than I do.

Anyone here know one or more web sites that review laptop cases and other accessories?

I am looking for a laptop case that with the following priorities:

1) Protection - I get around Chicago as a freelancce graphic arts pro, via the CTA (public transit, bus/train) which due to rough driving (sudden & violent stops and starts, overcrowding and pushy people, bags end up bumping into other people and the hard edge seating. I am looking for great padding, maybe an interior hard shell in the pocket area which would be suspended (not touching the bottom or sides, maybe also a removeable sleeve with shoulder strap). The one extreme I'd like to avoid is the completely hardshell type briefcase style...I still want a flexible messenger/folio style...just with tough materials, great padding and laptop pouch suspension to protect my expensive investments.

2) Storage - I need a bag that will accomodate the PB 15" AL, AC adapter, Security cable, CoolPodium, Mouse, iPod, spare battery misc cables, a few blank cds, critical backup cds, digital camera, exterior cell phone pocket, a couple of magazines, keys, business cards. Padding for accessories would be great, but not essential. Smart division of pockets for their purpose would be great and quick access to my PB even better.

3) Comfortable - that would mean lightweight (under 5.25 lbs) with a well padded, maybe stretchy shoulder strap.

4) Cool Looking - So subjective...maybe a choice of colors, but I've successfully dyed bookbags in the past.


Any first hand experiences, especially where mishaps occured and how well it protected your PB or iBook would be appreciated.

Thanks!

I'm kinda getting sick of recommending Tom Bihn, but it sounds like you'd love an Empire Builder and Brain Cell sleeve.

1) Yep. The hard shell & sling setup you described is exactly what the Brain Cell sleeve uses. Put that in an outer bag (Empire Builder), and you're set.

2) That's a LOT of stuff. The Empire Builder is appropriately huge.

3) The Absolute Shoulder Strap adds a ridiculous $25, but it does offer a stretchy comfy area. I can't personally attest to it, so I'll leave you to speculate here. They offer a few shoulder straps, or you're free to use your own.

4) I don't know about "stylish" (I'm an engineer), but they both certainly look elegant. You can get both bags in different colors (not a huge selection). You can get the Brain Cell and Empire Builder to match, if you wish.

Again, you're looking at $200 here, but price wasn't on your list. TB makes high-quality stuff.

Link:
http://www.tombihn.com/Merchant2/mer...roduct_Count=4

[ChillieMac]

Thanks, Azdude!

This is a great start, but the price IS a bit high. I should have put it on there, but again this helps. I was hoping to keep it under $170, preferably $150 or under, but if absolutely excellent, I'll go a little higher.

Anyone else have suggestions, or better direct experience with something that hits these features? Any scary near damage stories that your bag saved the day?

All replies welcome.

[teknopimp]

in case you're interested in aluminum cases (like Zero Halliburton) Vanguard has a good selection and is within your budget. you are asking for a lot so expect to make an investment.