Laptop Bags, Sleeves and Cases - Whats the Difference?

Briefcases are being replaced by Laptop Messenger Bags

My laptop is a near constant fixture with me no matter where I go, from the beach to the classroom to work, my laptop is along for the ride in one of my various computer bags, cases or sleeves.

Friends, co-workers, family and classmates often ask me the same question over and over again:

“What is the difference between a laptop sleeve, a laptop case and a laptop bag and why do you have all three?”

To end the debate once and for all, I am going to explain why a laptop sleeve, bag and case are different and why and when they should be used.

Laptop Sleeves

Laptop Sleeves are the lightweights of the bag community, they barely qualify as a “bag” at all. A computer sleeve is basically just a slim covering that protects the laptop from the elements, dings, dirt, scratches, etc. Sleeves are usually made of either a thick cloth-like material (usually cotton, nylon and canvas) or a spongy neoprene covering like that of a wetsuit for extra shock protection.

I like using just a laptop sleeve for the ease of carrying and light weight. There is practically no difference in weight between the laptop protected with a sleeve and the laptop without the sleeve.

The downside of notebook sleeves is that they are just that, sleeves. There are no pockets, extra pouches or even a place to carry a pencil and a small pad of paper alongside the notebook computer.

Laptop sleeves should be used only for short trips around town or across the campus where recharging the laptop will not become a consideration.

Sherpani Sport Large Laptop Sleeve
The Sherpani Sport collection bags are young, sporty, and fun. These durable, water resistant bags come in bright colors and are detailed with designer floral lining. The collection is designed to take active women from a day hike to dinner downtown. They are made with a light-weight, durable 420 denier nylon and are coated with an environmentally sensitive water resistant coating that is ecologically sound.

Availability: yes

knomo Bloomsbury Slim 17″ Laptop Sleeve
The knomo Bloomsbury Slim 17″ is a great ultra light and Slim bag that is handcrafted from full hide leather and nylon twill quilting to protect your laptop from any knocks or bumps. The retractable padded handle makes it comfortable to carry and easy to fit into a larger bag.

Availability: yes

Laptop Backpacks and Messenger bags

Laptop Backpacks and Notebook Messenger bags are on the other end of the spectrum from notebook sleeves. They can carry the notebook computer, all of its accessories, chargers, disks, thumb drives and still have enough space left over for a few books, snacks and a bottle of water.

Laptop messenger bags and backpacks are usually made of either leather, ballistic nylon with a high Denier count, heavy duty canvas or hemp material for strength and durability.

I typically use a laptop bag or backpack for most of my day to day travels to and from work, school and weekend trips when versatility and cargo volume are higher priorities than the weight or size of the laptop bag itself.

While the empty weight of a laptop bag can double or triple that of a laptop computer sleeve, the versatility and sheer amount of laptop computer accessories, gear and other miscellaneous stuff that I can carry inside a laptop backpack or messenger bag more than makes up for any weight penalty.

Victorinox Ground Force Field Master 17 17″ Horizontal Laptop Messenger Bag
The Victorinox Ground Force collection is a durable, yet attractive line from the well known makers of the Swiss Army Knife. Each bag comes with a variety of stylish and useful pockets, as well as a special front zippered Swiss Army Knife pocket.

Availability: yes

McKlein 21 Detachable-Wheeled Laptop Backpack w/ Sleeve - BLACK
Exclusive! Patented Detachable Wheel and Handle System maximizes your travel options by giving you two cases in one! Hide-away, adjustable backpack straps make it a comfortable carry while impact absorbent, recessed in-line skate wheels make it roll with ease, Two cases in one- laptop case and carry-on upright integrated, Features organizer section for PDA, cell phone, pens, business cards, etc., interior zipper pocket for small miscellaneous items, zip-away mesh water bottle holder, battery pouch and detachable cell phone case that affixes to chest strap for quick access, Bonus! Includes protective Weatherproof Cover, 2 separate compartments pack clothing for overnight trips or bring your laptop and documents with you.

Availability: yes

Laptop Cases

Laptop Cases are the compromise between a full fledged laptop bag and a notebook sleeve. Notebook cases are usually seen in the business world as a briefcase replacement rather than around high school or college campuses.

A laptop case is typically used by the business person on the go who wants to be able carry a few folders, documents and other small items, but wants to keep the overall weight down and doesn’t necessarily need to carry every last attachment and accessory that can connect to their laptop.

Computer cases are usually made of either leather, ballistic nylon or cloth similar to laptop bags and backpacks. The main differences lie in the way that notebook cases are usually designed to look more fashionable, stylish and professional looking like the briefcase replacement that they are rather than the regular messenger bags that they evolved from.

Jack Georges Nevada Laptop Compatible Tote Business Case - BLACK
This ultra lightweight top-zip laptop compatible business tote is hand made from a unique pebble-grain crushed fabric, backed by a poly-cotton finish, and topped with flecked suede. The bag features brown full grain vegetable tanned saddle leather trim, our Easy Access Organizer, nickel hardware, adjustable shoulder straps, zippered inside back pocket, padded laptop compartment, and plenty of room for files, documents, and your accessories.

Availability: yes

McKlein I Series Ravenswood Leather Triple Compartment Laptop Case
Precise, handcrafted workmanship, soft-edged, modern design, and rich supple leather. McKlein’s I Series brings a sense of luxury to the practical side of life. McKlein’s Wheel-Transport cases come equipped with a sleek-countoured strong aluminum grade telescoping handle system, high performance in-line skate wheels and a custom designed protective floor guard, which provides the active professional with a more modern, comfortable carrying option.

Availability: yes