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jjwhite

macrumors newbie
Original poster
Oct 18, 2009
4
0
I recently downsized from a 15in MBP to a 13in which forces me to acquire a new backpack

Since I'm always on the go, I need a backpack that holds a laptop and books/binders white protecting it from the usual student wear and tear and weight of unabridged dictionary sized books.

I looked into a pelican 1090cc but the 13in MBP would move around too much.

I narrowed the field down to:
Tom Bihn Brain Bag with Vertical Brain Cell
http://www.tombihn.com/page/001/PROD/100/TB0104

OR

The Booq Boa 3M + Viper XS2 Sleeve
http://www.booqbags.com/laptop-backpacks-laptop-bags/13mb/Boa-3Msystem-with-Vyper-XS2


Booq
Pros:
-Separate laptop compartment on the bag
-The viper sleeve can be used separately
-Hotter looking
-Better water resistance without spraying
-Better layout for pencils and pens

Cons:
-Zippered sleeve might be a pain to open, close, and store several times a day


Tom Bihn
Pros:
-It's HUGE!
-From the videos and comments, its the safest way to travel with a MBP
-Laptop slides right into the top of the brain cell in the bag

Cons:
-MBP shares the main compartment with the books.
-Over time the direct pressure on the brain cell (sleeve), might not be good.
-Slightly awkward layout compared to a traditional backpack
-Velcro on the brain cell cell may not last as long as zippers



Any recommendations? Comfort reviews?

Thanks in advance!
 
I've had terrible experience with Booq backpacks in terms of quality. Tom Bihn, on the other hand, has always been top notch.
 
Looks like I'm ordering a Tom Bihn. Wish I could have it tomorrow but the bags are so good that they're on back-order.
 
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