SwissGear Carbon II Black Notebook Backpack-Fits Apple Macbook Pro 15 inch and 17 inch

I specifically researched Wenger/SwissGear computer backpacks thanks to their reputation. They have a wide array of products in this category. My price range was $65-$95 (street) with consistent 4-star (or better) ratings. I checked the manufacturer's website for their most recent product line and verified the item's specs. Thorough? Yes. I do my homework up-front for the sake of a satisfactory buy. I also poke around the local storefronts to see what they offer. Shipment was immediate. On my doorstep in 48 hrs. The Wenger SwissGear Carbon computer backpack comes out of the box light as a feather, but looking tough as nails. Impressed by minimal use of fabrics that could snag or tear, beefy zippers, a braided steel cable handle, efficient padding, ergo-designed shoulder straps, and a stout-yet-narrow profile that says "I can fit most anywhere". Superior appearance and construction. All accessible compartments are snug and offer plenty of space for my 14" laptop, power brick, extra cat5e cable and a few accessories. I do have to slip it in endwise for a proper fit (seems to be the design intent). Even a 17" should not be a problem. Getting items in and out of the backpack was relatively easy. Ample space for a datebook, folio, some files, folders, etc. Inside pockets were wisely sewn higher up to free space below for storage. Maybe one extra zippered side-pocket would have been nice, but the two stretch sleeves on each side get the job done. Most impressive is the comfort and ease of carrying this backpack. I like the handle when I transition from auto to pedestrian tasks, and then strap it on for jaunt to the office elevator. No matter how I've loaded it, it never feels awkward when I carry it. And the overall footprint is neither bulky or too wide. With backpacks this versatile, I'm done with shoulder bags and briefcases (yes, a student of the old school). On the surface, this appears to be a very solid backpack with a relatively tough hide, efficient design, and a good brand standing behind it. It deserves the SwissGear name. It will get mostly local use 5-6 days a week, riding in my minivan, maybe occasionally on my bike. Long-distance traveling for business may be rare, but will occur. If need be, I'll provide an update once its broken in.

Love this bag, it's durable, comfortable, and looks good. My only gripe is that it does not seem to hold as much as it looks like it should be able to. The compartments are non-expanding, and seems to hinder it's storage space. Luckily, I don't need much space, so it is perfect for traveling and taking to University. Fits the MacBook Pro 17", 2 text books and paperwork, and headphones (Klipsch Image One with case) and still have enough room to put little stuff inside the bag. Highly recommended for a traveler, or light Uni student.

This pack fits my Dell XPS 17 perfectly, both with and without the bulky 9 cell, as if the sleeve in the pack was made for it. Tons of space and an extra heavy duty carry handle which is important because the slinky ones on most backpacks won't hold up long when you have 10lbs of laptop plus other gear in there. When push comes to shove I can put three computers in this bag (XPS17 laptop, HP 4520s 15.6" laptop, and a HP touchpad tablet) along with all the cables, mice, etc., and still have room for ipods, sunglasses, etc. The only downside is the bag itself is kind of heavy. Probably not the best solution if all you need is a pack for a 15" laptop. But if you have a 17" this is very nice.

This backpack is slightly taller than others to accommodate a 17" laptop, particularly 17" MacBook Pro. This is a fantastic backpack especially considering that it costs so little in comparison to other similar backpacks. I love the little pocket on the top for a badge, headphones, car keys, wallet, etc. It is very comfortable to wear, and it is very slim in profile, so that when you wear it, you do not look like you are geared to cross the Alps. It keeps your expensive computer safe and sound and has a lot of space for all kinds of gear. One thing I wish it had is more padding under the computer on the bottom of the backpack so that when you put the pack on a hard surface, the side of the laptop facing the ground would have been more padded and protected.

First off why I was a party pooper taking one star off: zipper handles could use some rubberization so that they do not produce any clickety clicks when meeting each other. But, then, it's hard to find luggage with the rubberized zipper handles, I haven't seen any lately save for the cheap looking bags with plastic zipper handles, so I probably would not give 5 stars to any backpack/notebook case. Other than that the construction and materials are superb. Zippers open and close with ease I never found even with the top of the line YKK. There are no storm flaps over zippers but the notebook compartment is mostly protected by an internal flap, so chances are that the contents won't get wet before you would. Anyhow, in umbrella vs. hood argument umbrella wins if peace of mind is on the menu or you are just a worry wart in general. A slightly wider internal flap would've gone a long way towards putting user at ease. But I'm nit picking here. At $75 this is an excellent value, it probably is a decent value at $99 also. The air channels on the back seem deep enough to work if you are unfortunate enough to walk in california august heat. 15" Mac book pro fits fine: 17" would probably fit also as evidenced by the absence of negative reviews. Two 15" laptops would likely fit also. As would a 17" and 15" if you are getting a workout in such a twisted and an unusual way. This backpack is even better than the Targus I took 3 years of intensive use to destroy (zippers) and, quite possibly, the best backpack overall of the all backpacks that I ever owned. UPD31032011: do not severely overload. After cramming a ton of stuff into the backpack (13" and 15" macbooks, etc) for an intercontinental flight the backpack has some new creases. Targus did not have this problem with post overload fatigue. Still, solid 4 stars for the overall feel.

I was sick of the standard old laptop bag I've used for years. When I bought this backpack style bag I was unsure of how I was going to like it. I've never looked back! Far more comfortable than a traditional bag. Great size.. not too big or small. It has all of the little compartments needed to keep your things secure and easy to find. Zippers are tough!, no seam issues! I'd buy the same one again.

First off the bag is a well made item. Feels sturdy, looks great. Stitching is immaculate. I'm looking forward to taking this on numerous trips I have to make over the summer. I'll post updates as the bag gains some mileage. Secondly, the seller is great. Expected due date was a week from now, and I get it the day after ordering. The item was well packed with no fear of damage even if the package was mishandled a long the way. Will do business again in the future.

Very familiar design, quality zippers, padded well for laptop, and by not having a fourth compartment on the front, should slide nicely under the seat in front of me on the airplane. Would prefer to have a 15” model. Advert was a little misleading - said 15” but is actually good for 15” and 17” so a little taller. Otherwise has all the great design, steel strap, and skips this new full zip open flat concept (not really a fan of that) just want to drop my laptop in its sleeve from the top, zip and go. Kept this one out of the six different models I tried.