Laptop Bags: Reviews

Updated August 2012

We consulted more than two dozen sources, seeking the best laptop bag reviews. Top sources test laptop bags for durability, padding and style. User reviews on retail sites also helped us choose the best bets, including briefcases, backpacks and luggage.

Targus CityGear TopLoad Case

Best top-loading laptop case

*Est. $60 and up

Estimated Price

Considering its price and features, the Targus CityGear TopLoad laptop case is a terrific value. It holds up well to abuse while protecting its cargo, and it has enough pockets for nearly every need. It is not the most stylish of laptop cases -- basic black with yellow accents -- but it's functional, comfortable to hold and businesslike, owners say.

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Rickshaw Zero Messenger

Best laptop messenger bag

*Est. $60 and up

Estimated Price

The Rickshaw Bagworks Zero Messenger laptop bag is an overwhelming favorite of reviewers -- earning top marks not just as a messenger bag, but as a laptop bag as well. Users and reviewers praise its origami-like shape; use of unusual, custom and recycled materials; wide array of available options; durability; comfortable strap; and low starting price. Be sure to price out the options you want before deciding on the Zero, however; they add up fast.

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Case Logic DLBP Laptop Backpack

Best laptop backpack

*Est. $35

Estimated Price

Reviewers and users say the Case Logic DLBP Laptop Backpack combines style with functionality. It's big enough to hold papers and books, with a multitude of pockets to stash small items like pens and flash drives. Yet it's compact enough that it can be carried aboard an airplane and stored. It's not as sturdy as some other bags, reviewers say, but it offers good value for the price.

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Targus Zip-Thru Air Traveler Backpack

Best laptop bag for travelers

*Est. $45

Estimated Price

If you travel frequently for business, the Targus Zip-Thru Air Traveler Laptop Backpack is the best laptop bag for you. A central zipper opens the bag flat so you can breeze through airport security lines. It has plenty of pockets to stash belongings in, yet it fits in an overhead compartment. A few users complain that the straps and bottom of the bag are not sturdy enough, but others have used it for years without issue.

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WaterField Laptop SleeveCase

Best laptop sleeve

*Est. $50 and up

Estimated Price

Reviews of the WaterField Designs Laptop SleeveCase, which is custom-made for more than 100 laptop dimensions, are uniformly glowing. Reviewer after reviewer praise build quality and design, and many owners say their SleeveCases look good as new years after purchase. This hybrid sleeve does come with an optional carrying strap to turn it into a case, but it's not designed to protect against falls like a fully featured laptop bag. Numerous options are available, but costs can add up quickly. That aside, reviewers unanimously say it's worth every penny.

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