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SomeGuyDude

macrumors 6502a
Mar 19, 2011
730
2
NEPA
Not a big fan of the hard cases. I just dont like the idea of an aluminum computer that can generate a lot of heat be covered(not fully I understand) by a plastic cover. My old incase for my 2008 macbook pro may me a little too roomy for my new retina display mbp.

Ended up getting the Uintah Colcasac 15" retina display model.

Should work great for me.

same. I leave mine naked, but use a bag when I carry it around.
 

gwsat

macrumors 68000
Apr 12, 2008
1,920
0
Tulsa
Made an interesting discovery today, which I thought any of you changing from a 13 inch MBA to a 13 inch MBPr might find interesting. In the fall of 2010 I bought an Incase sleeve and a Marware bag for my then new 2010 13 inch MBA. Yesterday, I replaced the MBA with a 13 inch MBPr. I found to my delight that the MBPr fits the Incase sleeve and Marware bag even better than the MBA did. The MBA fit both the sleeve and the bag so tightly that it was kind of a struggle to get it in or out of either. The MBPr, though, although slightly thicker on its leading edge than the MBA is slightly thinner in the middle and (I think) at the trailing edge. The result is that, overall, the MBPr fits the Incase sleeve and Marware bag even better than the MBA did.
 

luffytubby

macrumors 6502a
Jan 22, 2008
684
0
I haven't read the entire thread, but anyone who has the BookBook for rMBP 15?


The original BookBook for MBP got bad reviews because the zipper was making scratches in the chassis because it was so snug. I wonder if the 15 retina version is better. I've loved my Iphone 4S BookBook for years!
 

dastinger

macrumors 6502a
Mar 18, 2012
818
3
I haven't read the entire thread, but anyone who has the BookBook for rMBP 15?


The original BookBook for MBP got bad reviews because the zipper was making scratches in the chassis because it was so snug. I wonder if the 15 retina version is better. I've loved my Iphone 4S BookBook for years!
b6jlpVgl.png
 

luffytubby

macrumors 6502a
Jan 22, 2008
684
0

Good point mate.



I just received the BookBook case from TwelveSouth yesterday. I initially wanted to just keep it in the case, but was worried about how it may not allow for proper ventilation on the sides. I was using a Cote et Ciel sleeve prior to receiving the BookBook, which was a neoprene sleeve like the Incase ones (albeit a bit nicer, as it has some material on the inside that protects the MBP from the zippers). The BookBook case, while the looks may not be for everyone, can actually function as a very nice sleeve (and, when necessary, function as a case as advertised). Plus, the materials feel very premium and I think the looks are overall really unique.

It sounds pretty good. Didn't think about the breathing..
 

ktc

macrumors newbie
Oct 25, 2013
29
0
Review of the Waterfield/SFBags Macbook Smart Case

Review of Waterfield Smart Case for the 2013 13” MBP Retina :

As an excited new Mac convert with a new 2013 13” rMBP, I was interested in a new case for my daily work — my needs consists of needing to carry the laptop within a thin backpack everyday w/ other items, other times presenting in business meetings where I need a sharp-looking lightweight case by itself. Ideally the case would also be protective for an occasional bump, and times when I jam a bunch of other gear into the same bag (i.e.: vacation). I first tried to order the Picaso Lab Sleeve, but after not hearing back from Alex and needing a case immediately, I canceled that order and placed an order with Waterfield. Their customer service was very prompt, courteous, and with all the holiday shipping complexities they even offered to upgrade my shipping to ensure I got the case in time (before I left for Thanksgiving). Huge kudos to this company for their dedication to customer satisfaction!

The design is well documented on their website. The sleeve material is high-quality and well made — no material blemishes, fray stitching, or anything to suggest possible issues; I’ve actually had a few people compliment the aesthetics of this sleeve. In terms of durability, I have a similar sleeve for my iPad which has lasted for 2 years now, and it looks almost brand new. The foam on both large surfaces are of a soft durometer that depresses approximately 2mm or so (see photo). The suede liner inside is soft, and perfect for holding onto the MBP without scratches; this liner seems to be suspended from its opening and is shorter than the total length of the case such that if the sleeve is held opening-side-up and dropped onto a table, the laptop remains suspended within the sleeve and does not actually impact the table (this is important to be as I put my backpack down on the ground often and would not want the laptop getting dinged). The three narrow sides are all reinforced and are quite hard. As described by others, there are thin plastic inserts on for both the top and bottom of the MBP; in my opinion the combination of the plastic insert and surrounding foam is more than enough for dispersing point stresses to significantly reduce the chance of adjacent objects puncturing and denting the MBP. Others have called the plastic inserts “flimsy”, but I think thicker/stiffer ones would really impact the form-factor of this case, which is one of the strongest points of this case — it’s pretty small for the sort of protection it offers.

For the times when I’m carrying the case by itself to meetings, the side pocket is a huge advantage. I have put a small paper notebook and DVI connectors in there without any issues, and it is easy to reach in and out to grab these items. The elastic strap at the top is plenty adequate to prevent these items from falling out, and I prefer this to an actual zipper. The case also appears to be TSA safe on recent flights.

With the MBP inside, the case remains quite thin (some other cases become so large it is hard to fit inside certain backpack compartments, etc). It’s approximately 1.2 inch thick when the laptop is inside, and fits snuggly within my backpack compartment. Other cases (i.e. Brenthaven) do not fit in my bag. The open configuration also allows in-sleeve laptop charging and the ability to remove this laptop from the sleeve without taking the sleeve out of the bag compartment.

As they mention on their website, the dimensions “grip” the laptop such that it can be held upside down without falling out (not sure why anyone would want to do that). Others here have mentioned this loosening up over time. Currently the grip is such that I can not take the laptop out with one hand; you really have to be counter-pulling the sleeve to get it out. It’s not much of a hassle, and even if it loosens up a bit I think this would not cause much of an issue in my daily use.

Is there anything that I don’t like about this sleeve? Not really. Perhaps an area to put in a business card or some identification? It’s a bit on the pricey side of cases, but then again, I don’t think many other cases offer as much protection AND appeal AND functionality for the dollar.

I would highly recommend this for the Retina MBP.

ps. Sorry for the upside-down photos. Alas, that's what I get from my iPhone ;)
 

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audleylibrary

macrumors newbie
Dec 5, 2013
1
0
Has anyone ordered and received the Vatuka folio case with ventilation designed for the 13" rMBP? As far as I can tell, all the reviews on this forum are for the 15" case. I'm curious about the fit of the sleeve, since companies seem to be so bad at making well-fitting cases for the 13" model.
 

cliegal

macrumors member
Aug 11, 2010
77
12
Has anyone ordered and received the Vatuka folio case with ventilation designed for the 13" rMBP? As far as I can tell, all the reviews on this forum are for the 15" case. I'm curious about the fit of the sleeve, since companies seem to be so bad at making well-fitting cases for the 13" model.

I ordered and received it. It's a nice looking case but a very tight, almost crushing fit. The laptop barely fits into it and I'm hoping it stretches when I have the patience to "force" the rMBP into it a few times and leave it there. I'm a little disappointed, to be honest. I want a good fit but this one is really, really hard to zip up and I'm almost afraid of damaging the laptop.
 

mneblett

macrumors 6502
Jun 7, 2008
369
0
I searched the thread but didn't see this Q covered:

I purchased a Moshi clear hard case with my late 2013 15" rMBP. Like others, I now have cracks in two of the top's corners (not from any abuse -- I baby my baby. :D

I like the case so much that I can live with the cracks *IF* they are not going to continue to grow. Anyone with longer-term experience with the cracks? Do they grow, or stay just near the corner?

Thanks!
 

Canzz

macrumors newbie
Sep 30, 2013
28
0
hey, newbie here, probably my first message here.. I've learned a lot from this forum now its time to contribute!

Here are the cases I tried for my late 2013 rMBP 13"...

Incase Sleeve
HA173

Great product, seems high quality, not for rmbp. MBA fits perfectly, rMBP has enough space to dance inside.

Herschel Supply Co. 13" Anchor Sleeve
HB426

Not bad as incase, but its still not a good fit for 13 rmbp. Material seems to be good quality, didnt like the zippers so much.

Acme Made 13" Skinny Sleeve
HB344

Again, not a good fit, and it doesnt seem protective.

Level8 13" WORLD Pro Super Sleeve
HA280

Best fit so far, its not same as the other cases. Inside of the case is looking like this
backpack_level8_0008.jpg

Its a little bit thicker than other sleeves, but it feels like even if you drop it on the floor, you wouldnt mind. It looks really cool but I feel like its not a great quality product.

I tried thule, didnt like it. It doenst fit so well

There is a case "uncommon" in applestore which fits the rMBP. (Not perfectly but okay) But it felt like it doenst worth 49 in apple store so I tried to find online, even in their own webstore its not available?

There was one more case (booque ? :) haha ) which is similar to calacas sleeve, with a nice magnet, no zippers or anything, which was not a good fit for rMBP as well.


THE SLEEVES THAT I HAVENT TRIED BUT PRETTY SURE ITS NOT GOING TO FIT rMBP ( CHECKED THE SIZES AND REVIEWS :) )

I was going to make a long list of sleeves I have checked the sizes, but pretty much every sleeve I checked is not perfect fit for new rMBP. (Incase, Caselogic, incipio, casecrown and many more.... )

If I find a good sleeve, I let you guys know :)

Cheers
 

Jack Sun

macrumors member
Oct 30, 2013
70
6
Hey everyone, I was also hunting around for a sleeve for my brand new rMBP 15 - and was not happy with the Incase ones as they are far too baggy for my liking, it slides around too much.

After some hesitation, I ordered the Booq mamba sleeve and I am extremely glad I did. It fits really snug, and contrary to some reviews, my zippers do not come close to the edges of the macbook, there enough space to close the sleeve without the worry of scratching (even in a hurry).

I went with the grey color and love it.

http://www.booqbags.com/us/sleeves/mamba-sleeve/MSL15-GRY


Based on this, ordered grey Mamba from Amazon. Love it! Cool natural fiber exterior, super soft velvet interior, very slim and tailored to my new 15". And NO problems with scraping zippers, plenty of clearance. Thanks!!
 

Canzz

macrumors newbie
Sep 30, 2013
28
0
Bought a Colcasac sleeve for my Haswell 13" rMBP earlier this month.

It's a great sleeve that
  • doesn't add much bulk
  • doesnt scratch your MacBook (look at all the soft fleece!) unlike hardcovers or some sleeves' zippers
  • is competitively priced
  • fits your MacBook really snugly (check out the pictures!)

Overall, i'm a really satisfied customer. Will highly recommend. :)

:(

Where did you order from? In their website theres no option for retina on 13 inc
 

Breedlove

macrumors regular
Oct 23, 2006
163
0
hey, newbie here, probably my first message here.. I've learned a lot from this forum now its time to contribute!

Here are the cases I tried for my late 2013 rMBP 13"...

Incase Sleeve
Image
Great product, seems high quality, not for rmbp. MBA fits perfectly, rMBP has enough space to dance inside.

Herschel Supply Co. 13" Anchor Sleeve
Image
Not bad as incase, but its still not a good fit for 13 rmbp. Material seems to be good quality, didnt like the zippers so much.

Acme Made 13" Skinny Sleeve
Image
Again, not a good fit, and it doesnt seem protective.

Level8 13" WORLD Pro Super Sleeve
Image
Best fit so far, its not same as the other cases. Inside of the case is looking like this
Image
Its a little bit thicker than other sleeves, but it feels like even if you drop it on the floor, you wouldnt mind. It looks really cool but I feel like its not a great quality product.

I tried thule, didnt like it. It doenst fit so well

There is a case "uncommon" in applestore which fits the rMBP. (Not perfectly but okay) But it felt like it doenst worth 49 in apple store so I tried to find online, even in their own webstore its not available?

There was one more case (booque ? :) haha ) which is similar to calacas sleeve, with a nice magnet, no zippers or anything, which was not a good fit for rMBP as well.


THE SLEEVES THAT I HAVENT TRIED BUT PRETTY SURE ITS NOT GOING TO FIT rMBP ( CHECKED THE SIZES AND REVIEWS :) )

I was going to make a long list of sleeves I have checked the sizes, but pretty much every sleeve I checked is not perfect fit for new rMBP. (Incase, Caselogic, incipio, casecrown and many more.... )

If I find a good sleeve, I let you guys know :)

Cheers

I actually like the Acmemade Sleeve with the 13" rMBP. :eek:

It was too almost too tight fitting with the MBA. Snug enough without being too tight with the rMBP.
 

Canzz

macrumors newbie
Sep 30, 2013
28
0
I was looking at macbook sleeves and comparing sizes all the time and it was taking so much time. I bought BAGGU from apple store, until I found a better one I'll be using this one.

828x1044_laptop13_black_hires.jpg


Its not a great fit but its one of the best I have tried so far. I tried with the macbook air and it fit perfectly :(

Inside of the sleve is so soft, and really thick on the bottom. It gave me an impression that it would protected more than regular neoprene cases that incase, caselogic etc. does if it falls. The Velcro flap has a small magnet is so easy to open, some might want slightly stronger flap. The fact that it doenst have any zipper makes it even easier to use.

I was consideering to buy a regular neoprene sleve with zippers but i realised the vertical sleeve with velcro flap is much more convenient. So Im either goint to buy a colcasac or waterfield design vertical sleeves for my macbook.

If this was a great fit I wouldnt be looking sleeves anymore, so please inform me about colcasac (In their website there is 15 rMBP option but no 13 rMBP option so Im woried if its sold out or something ) or any other protective vertical sleeve...

Thank you
 

flux73

macrumors 65816
May 29, 2009
1,019
134
hey, newbie here, probably my first message here.. I've learned a lot from this forum now its time to contribute!

Here are the cases I tried for my late 2013 rMBP 13"...

Incase Sleeve
Image
Great product, seems high quality, not for rmbp. MBA fits perfectly, rMBP has enough space to dance inside.

Herschel Supply Co. 13" Anchor Sleeve
Image
Not bad as incase, but its still not a good fit for 13 rmbp. Material seems to be good quality, didnt like the zippers so much.

Acme Made 13" Skinny Sleeve
Image
Again, not a good fit, and it doesnt seem protective.

Level8 13" WORLD Pro Super Sleeve
Image
Best fit so far, its not same as the other cases. Inside of the case is looking like this
Image
Its a little bit thicker than other sleeves, but it feels like even if you drop it on the floor, you wouldnt mind. It looks really cool but I feel like its not a great quality product.

I tried thule, didnt like it. It doenst fit so well

There is a case "uncommon" in applestore which fits the rMBP. (Not perfectly but okay) But it felt like it doenst worth 49 in apple store so I tried to find online, even in their own webstore its not available?

There was one more case (booque ? :) haha ) which is similar to calacas sleeve, with a nice magnet, no zippers or anything, which was not a good fit for rMBP as well.


THE SLEEVES THAT I HAVENT TRIED BUT PRETTY SURE ITS NOT GOING TO FIT rMBP ( CHECKED THE SIZES AND REVIEWS :) )

I was going to make a long list of sleeves I have checked the sizes, but pretty much every sleeve I checked is not perfect fit for new rMBP. (Incase, Caselogic, incipio, casecrown and many more.... )

If I find a good sleeve, I let you guys know :)

Cheers
This is the problem I was encountering. All the 13" cases out there are too big for the rMBP. I've noticed that if it says it'll fit the 13" MBA, it'll be too big. I ordered a Colcasac because they actually have a size that was specific to the 13" rMBP, separate from the MBA size. Crossing my fingers that it's a perfect fit.
 

Canzz

macrumors newbie
Sep 30, 2013
28
0
This is the problem I was encountering. All the 13" cases out there are too big for the rMBP. I've noticed that if it says it'll fit the 13" MBA, it'll be too big. I ordered a Colcasac because they actually have a size that was specific to the 13" rMBP, separate from the MBA size. Crossing my fingers that it's a perfect fit.

I cant see any option for rMBP in colcasac website, only retina option there is for 15inc ?
http://www.colcasac.com/macbook-sleeve/

Ordered from Colcasac website. I bought the 13" MBA size, it fits nicely. :)

Yea I have asked the customer service for dimensions and MBA seems better :)
I want to buy one but it says its going to be 45+30 with shipping to Toronto :/ Any other place I can find it cheaper ? :(
 

gwsat

macrumors 68000
Apr 12, 2008
1,920
0
Tulsa
This is the problem I was encountering. All the 13" cases out there are too big for the rMBP. I've noticed that if it says it'll fit the 13" MBA, it'll be too big. I ordered a Colcasac because they actually have a size that was specific to the 13" rMBP, separate from the MBA size. Crossing my fingers that it's a perfect fit.

I guess whether a bag designed for a 13 inch MBA will fit the new 13 inch MBPr depends on the manufacturer. I got a Marware bag in 2010. It was designed for the 2010 MBA. At the same time, I bought an Incase sleeve for the same computer. Both worked but I thought the fit was slightly too tight.

In the interest of science, I tried both the bag and the sleeve with my new 13 inch MBPr and happily discovered that both fit the MBPr better than they had fit the MBA. The tight fit I had struggled with on the MBA is gone but there is no unwanted looseness either.
 
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