Briefcases

A laptop briefcase is a structured bag with a padded laptop compartment, handles, usually a shoulder strap, and pockets for the things that travel with a laptop — the charger, a notebook, documents, cables.

That last point is what separates it from a sleeve. A sleeve protects the machine; a briefcase carries the whole kit, which is what most people actually need to move between home, office and meetings.

What to check.

Size. The stated figure is a maximum for the laptop, not the bag’s dimensions. Modern machines vary, so compare your laptop’s measurements against the stated internal size rather than trusting the label.

Trolley strap. A sleeve on the back that slides over a suitcase handle. If you fly or take trains regularly, it is the feature you will use every trip.

Water resistance, and whether the laptop compartment is suspended off the base so a drop onto the pavement does not transmit straight through.

The range covers Targus, including EcoSmart models made from recycled materials, and Dell EcoLoop.