A smart case for work
A laptop briefcase carries a laptop, documents and the day's work things in a structured case with handles on top. It stands up on its own, opens wide to show what is inside, and looks right in an office, a meeting or a client's reception. Most here have a shoulder strap as well, which can be clipped on for the walk and taken off at the door. Inside, most have a laptop compartment, a main section for files, and smaller pockets for pens, cards and a phone.
The kinds in this range
- Genuine leather briefcases, including cowhide, in coffee, brown and black, some as a slim sleeve-style case and some with a full compartment for files.
- PU leather briefcases have the look of leather in a lighter, wipe-clean material, from slim cases to larger executive briefcases and totes.
- Oxford cloth organiser briefcases are high-capacity fabric cases with many pockets for a laptop, a tablet, documents, a phone, cards and cables, and some suit a weekend away.
- Nylon shoulder bags with two main pockets, light enough for a daily commute.
Leather or fabric
Genuine leather is heavier and takes on character with use, and it wants an occasional clean and a little care to stay supple. PU leather is a coating on fabric: lighter, easy to wipe, and the same all through its life. Oxford cloth and nylon are the lightest, and carry the most for their weight. If smart is what matters, leather or PU; if you carry a lot, fabric. See also leather laptop accessories.
Checking the size
Briefcases are sold for laptops up to a given screen size. Several here take a 15.6-inch laptop, others are sized for 13 to 14 inches or give only their own measurements, and one is made in three sizes up to 17 to 18 inches. Where a product page gives the inside size, compare it with your laptop's width, depth and thickness, and remember that a slim case holds a thin laptop with little room for anything else.
Questions people ask about laptop briefcases
Is a briefcase padded?
Most have a dedicated laptop compartment. For more protection, put the laptop in a slim sleeve first, if there is room.
Will it take documents?
Most have space for files beside the laptop. Compare the inside size with the folders you carry.
Where do the charger and cables go?
Many have pockets for them. A tech pouch keeps them together and stops the plug pressing on the laptop.
How long does delivery take?
Delivery is included in every price and tracked to your door. Each product page says when it usually arrives, so check it before ordering for a set date.
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