This category holds laptop bags and briefcases for people who carry a notebook to the office, to meetings or on business trips. Briefcases, toploader bags, messenger bags and sleeve cases are all here, from brands such as RIVACASE, TARGUS, DICOTA and Lenovo.
How to choose a laptop bag or briefcase
Screen size. Bags are sold by the largest screen they take, and our range runs from 13.3 inch to 18 inch, with 15.6 inch, 16 inch and 14 inch listed most often. A 14 inch laptop will fit in a bag made for 15.6 inch but may slide around, so choose the closest size and check the laptop's overall dimensions, not just the screen.
Case type. Briefcases are the most common type in our range: structured, with handles and usually a shoulder strap, which suits office and client visits. A toploader opens from the top for quick access, a messenger bag is worn across the body, and a sleeve case is a slim padded cover that can also sit inside another bag. Trolley cases with wheels are available for frequent travellers carrying more than a laptop.
Materials and protection. Most bags in our range are made of polyester, which is light and copes well with everyday scuffs. Some use polyurethane, which is usually a coated surface that helps shed light rain, and a few use PET fabric. Look for a padded laptop compartment and firmer sides if you commute with the bag packed full.
Compatibility. Many bags are listed as suitable for any brand or as universal, so size is the only thing to match. Others are listed for DELL, HP, Lenovo or Acer laptops, and these are usually sized around that maker's models, so confirm that your exact laptop still fits.
Laptop bag brands we carry
- RIVACASE: the largest brand in this category in our range, focused on bags and backpacks for laptops and tablets.
- TARGUS: a long-established maker of laptop cases and accessories, with a strong focus on business travellers.
- DICOTA: a Swiss brand known for business bags and laptop cases aimed at office and corporate use.
- Lenovo and HP: laptop manufacturers whose bags are made to go with their own business notebooks.
- Case Logic: a brand known for cases and carrying solutions for electronics and storage.
- PORT DESIGNS: a French brand offering laptop bags and protective accessories for professionals.
- WENGER: a Swiss brand best known for Swiss Army knives, which also makes bags for work and travel.
- TOMTOC: known for protective sleeves and cases for laptops and tablets.
Also in our range: NATEC, HAMA and TECH-PROTECT.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a laptop bag and a briefcase?
A briefcase is a type of laptop bag with a more rigid, structured shape, handles and usually a shoulder strap. Other laptop bags, such as messenger bags and toploaders, can be softer and more casual. Briefcases generally suit formal work settings, while softer bags are easier to carry for longer periods.
What size bag do I need for a 15.6 inch laptop?
You need a bag listed for a maximum screen size of 15.6 inch or larger. Bags for 15.6 inch are the most frequently listed size in our range. If your laptop has a large body or thick bezels, check the internal dimensions of the compartment as well.
Is a sleeve case enough to protect a laptop?
A sleeve case protects against scratches and light knocks, but it has no handles or space for other items. It works well inside a backpack or larger bag. If you carry the laptop on its own, a briefcase or toploader with a padded compartment gives more protection.
Are laptop bags waterproof?
Not all of them are, and many are only water-resistant. Polyester and polyurethane materials, both found in our range, usually cope with light rain, but they will not protect a laptop in a downpour or if submerged. Check the product description for any water resistance claim before relying on it.
