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NO MATTER if you're using your laptop for work or for leisure, a proper laptop bag is a worthy investment to help protect your tech. These days most bags are suitable for carrying your laptop, however you should proceed with caution if you're looking for a laptop bag that's going to actually give you true protection. After all, a brand can simply sew in an internal pocket and say the bag features a "laptop sleeve".
We're from the camp of thought that a laptop bag needs careful vetting, which is why we tested all the different ones out there to find the best of the best. Below, you'll find the top backpacks, messenger bags, and sling bags for carrying your precious tech. Each pick was curated with a wide arrange of tastes and styles in mind, so there's something in here for every individual.
All you have to now is spot the laptop bag that appeals to your needs and budget. You might even find some of these bags on sale.
Best Macbook Accessories | Best Briefcases | Best Duffle Bags | Best Carry-on Luggage | Best Luggage Brands | Best Travel Bags
Alpaka Gear Elements Tech Brief
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What Is the Best Way to Carry a Laptop?
The best way to carry your laptop is the way that keeps your laptop the safest from both getting damaged and getting stolen. Secure closures and ample padding are paramount. Having said that, you also want a bag that will look cool getting the job done. You really have two decisions to make: Do you want leather or modern fabrics? and Do you want a backpack or should bag?
Leather bags are more stylish and provide that classic look but you sacrifice a level of protection for your gear. Modern fabrics are more secure, weather resistant and allow for more padding. As for a backpack or shoulder bag, that is a matter of how your travel or commute looks. If you need to carry your bag for long periods of time, then a backpack is better. If you need to pick it up and put it down frequently, say getting in and out of your car, then a shoulder bag is better.
Which Brands Make the Best Laptop Bags?
We found that InCase is making the best bags with modern innovations right now. Topo Design and Alpaka are right behind them as well. If you want a rugged and stylish look, then Filson's waxed canvas bags are the best on the market. For an old-fashioned leather messenger bag that will always be in style, Tecovas and Shinola make great options.
What Is the Best Laptop Messenger Bag?
Filson makes some of the best overall messenger bags in the world. They've established themselves as the industry standard not just for waxed cotton bags but for rugged, vintage style bags in general. Filson bags are incredibly durable, so they protect your stuff and last a lifetime if you take care of them. They have a timeless aesthetic that will always look cool. Plus, even though they look old fashioned, they have as much cargo space as modern fabric messenger bags.
Pros
- Tons of pocket space
- High level of comfort
- Weather resistant
- Cushioned laptop sleeve that provides easy access
Cons
Sleek and wonderfully accessible, the Commuter Pack is a tried-and-true water resistant backpack that caters to (you guess it) daily work commuters. Padded shoulder straps and a soft, protective laptop sleeve are just a few of the many subtle design notes we love.
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| Laptop Size | Fits up to 16" |
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Amazon's Choice
Lenovo Laptop Carrying Case T210
Amazon's Choice
Lenovo Laptop Carrying Case T210
Now 24% Off
Pros
- Under $30
- Over 18,900 five-star Amazon reviews
- Several cool colors available
Cons
- Not very protective when it comes to accidental drops
Over 18,000 five-star Amazon reviews are attributed to this stylish sling bag. For under $30 you get padded protection, a cushioned arm strap, and a water repellant fabric. Oh, and Amazon Prime shipping eligible!
| Laptop Size | Fits up to 15.6" |
|---|
Best Messenger Bag
Filson Rugged Twill Original Briefcase
Best Messenger Bag
Filson Rugged Twill Original Briefcase
Pros
- Bridle leather handles and straps
- Spacious enough to hold multiple laptops and tablets
- Made in the USA
Cons
- Expensive
Filson's line of Rugged Twill bags are some of the best investments you can make when it comes to your gear load out. The Original Briefcase is made from scratch resistant twill and coated with a light wax to repel moisture. And premium bridle leather was outfitted to the handles, straps, and reinforcements for a durability play (and style play). Yeah, this bag is going to last you a long time.
| Laptop Size | Fits up to ~14" |
|---|
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Best Tote Bag
Incase Transfer Two-Way Tote
Best Tote Bag
Incase Transfer Two-Way Tote
Pros
- Eco-friendly materials
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Lots of pockets space
Cons
- Not a lot of padding outside the laptop sleeve
Designed to work as a tote and a backpack, the Transfer Two-Way is best suited for who enjoy versatility. Woven from recycled 300D ripstop nylon, and designed with a zippered top and a plush lined laptop compartment, this convertible tote will prove to protect your precious tech no matter where your day takes you.
| Laptop Size | Fits up to 16" |
|---|
Best Travel Bag
Peak Design Travel Backpack
Best Travel Bag
Peak Design Travel Backpack
Pros
- Packing configuration maximizes space
- Laptop sleeve is easily accessible
- Holds up to 45L of goods
Cons
- Expensive
It's true this backpack gets high praise for it's travel abilities, but the design of the bag makes it efficient for storing your laptop while also having easy access for when you need to take it out. We see this as a solid weekend getaway bag for those who like to travel light.
Read more: Best Travel Bags
| Laptop Size | Fits up to 16" |
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The Global Briefcase packs everything you need for your work desk into one smooth looking bag. A mind boggling amount of compartments are packed away in this carry on size bag. Plus, it works as a backpack or shoulder bag.
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Tecovas became one of the top boot brands in the business practically overnight. So when they applied their leather working expertise to a briefcase it turned out pretty darn good. They used solid brass hardware that wont tarnish with age and included a 15" padded sleeve for your laptop or tablet.
Minimal and functional, this airport-friendly briefcase features multiple pockets for your laptop and files and a pass-through strap that lets it attach to rolling luggage.
| Laptop Size | Fits up to 16" |
|---|
If you want a classic look, then look no further than this brown leather number from Shinola. Made from fine American leather and featuring an adjustable strap, this laptop bag will continue to get more and more comfortable over time.
| Laptop Size | Fits up to 15" |
|---|
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This is the bag for anyone who needs an extra level of protection for their commute or travel. The Elements Tech Brief is made from a rip-stop fabric that is water resistant and ultra durable. All your stuff gets tucked away into several padded envelopes.
This minimalist nylon sling is made with 100% recycled materials and is weather resistant, making it the perfect bag to take with on those weekend coffee shop runs.
Read more: Best Crossbody Bags
| Laptop Size | Fits up to 15" |
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Designed with an active lifestyle in mind, this water-resistant bag is loaded with extra pockets to carry everything from your portable electronics to protein bars and a water bottle.
| Laptop Size | Fits up to 16" |
|---|
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For a quick trip, this nylon bag is a carry-all option for your laptop, as well as your personal goods. Fully-lined with multiple pockets, this piece is a perfect option for a weekend getaway.
Read more: Best Carry-On Luggage
| Laptop Size | Fits up to 15" |
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How We Selected
For the past 18 months, we consulted with Men's Health's editors and writers on the top laptop bags for men. Experts, including our Gear and Commerce Editor John Thompson, tested several laptop bags and evaluated their durability, ease-of-use, and price point.
We also considered top-reviewed laptop bags with high customer ratings on e-commerce websites we trust.
John Thompson
Senior Gear and Commerce Editor
John Thompson is the Senior Gear and Commerce Editor at Men’s Health, where he covers fashion, grooming, gear, and technology. He was previously the Style & Gear Editor at BroBible.com, and a commerce writer for TheManual.com. His interests include attending concerts, spending time outside, and following his favorite baseball team, the Kansas City Royals.
Brad Lanphear
Contributing Commerce Style Writer
Brad is a contributing style commerce editor. After a decade working for menswear brands including J.Crew and Ralph Lauren, Brad switched from selling fashion to writing about it. His words have appeared in Huckberry, Heddels, and The Manual.
