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We put 20 laptop backpacks from top brands through head-to-head testing to find the best options for traveling with your electronics
Credit: Jason Wanlass
By Jason Wanlass ⋅ Review Editor ⋅ Updated August 4, 2026
Whether you're headed to a local cafe for a change of scene while working or studying, flying across the country for meetings, or know you'll have to carry your laptop along for the ride on your next vacation, a reliable, well-designed laptop backpack is critical to ensuring a safe and easy journey — for you and your tech.
The Timbuk2 Authority Deluxe is the best laptop backpack overall. The perfectly sized 20L bag offers incredible laptop protection and solid comfort in a sleek, understated exterior.
If you want to stretch your dollar a little further, we recommend The North Face Recon, which is well-priced, offers above-average laptop protection, and also works great as a daypack for traveling or light hikes, so you can get the most out of your backpack.
We've spent more than a decade examining the most promising laptop backpacks on the market, purchasing more than 50 options. We put them through thousands of hours of testing, carrying them by bike, on the bus, in the car, and on airplanes to see which will serve you best on a commute to work, school, and beyond.
Editor's Note: We updated our laptop backpacks review on July 22, 2026 after re-evaluating some of our award winners, and adding more than a dozen new models to our lineup.
The Timbuk2 Authority Deluxe comes equipped with a well-padded dedicated laptop pocket at the back of the pack and a second sleeve embedded in the main compartment to accommodate a second laptop, portable monitor, or tablet. It has a nice array of pockets, a removable sternum strap, a key clip, and a great set of bottom compression straps that allow you to carry a jacket or umbrella outside your pack. The well-cushioned back and ergonomic shoulder straps are comfortable and breathable. Our testers found the main body fabric beads water well and the bottom to be fully waterproof. We also appreciated this bag's trolley strap, which allows it to piggyback on any other piece of roller luggage. Our leader tester summarized it best: “I think this is perfect for work and travel — it's built to last, and it has clean lines and a professional style.”
We identified a few drawbacks worth mentioning on the Timbuk2 Authority Deluxe. Compared to many packs we tested, this one has a narrower profile. There was plenty of room for flat items like computers, notebooks, and folders, but it could be a tight fit if you also want to toss in a bulky fleece or change of clothes within the main compartment. Similarly, there is only one water bottle pocket, which only fits skinnier bottles (we tried a standard 1L Nalgene, and it did not fit in this pocket). But, when traveling relatively light on water and layers, our test team thinks this is an ideal companion. Tester Jason Wanlass noted, “I really liked the pocket layout since it keeps everything together, offers excellent protection, and allows me easy access on the move.” Other bags that compare well against the Timbuk2 are the Nomatic Navigator 15 and Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L. Each one provides a sleek office-friendly design, though these bags cost quite a bit more. Timbuk2 also makes the Especial Stash Messenger if backpacks aren't your thing.
Small item compartment can get in the way when packed
SPECIFICATIONS
Compatible Laptop Size
16"
Carry Style
Backpack
Volume
30 L
External Water Bottle Holder
Yes
Location of Laptop Compatrment
Separate/Back
The North Face Recon has plenty of room for everything you need and enough clever pockets to keep it organized. It has a separate laptop compartment with excellent back padding that fits both our tall- and short-torsoed testers, and the flexible shoulder straps are comfortable enough for all-day carry. Our reviewer said, “The pack easily stood up while I rifled through it, and it fit my 16-inch laptop without issue.” Durable water bottle pockets and a few handy features, like all-over reflective loops, a sternum strap with whistle, a webbing waist belt, and a velcro strap and hole for a hydration bladder, make this bag a solid choice for more than just laptop carting. If you like these features but have a smaller 15-inch laptop (or less), take a look at the slightly less expensive Borealis, which is another one of our favorite high-value bags.
The semi-rigid, padded back panel on The North Face Recon is protective and comfortable for walking to class or running through a train station. However, one tester noted, “I didn't like that the un-padded center strip dug into my spine when I was bent forward on a bike.” We also found it easy to overfill the 30L bag. This is on the bigger end for a work/school bag, and the large capacity invites heavy, bulky loads, so be careful what you pack. And, while our water tests demonstrated the Recon can repel light precipitation fine all day, we found a heavier shower quickly soaked through the zippers and into the bag. In the end though, we found the Recon to be a smartly organized, high-capacity laptop backpack with a large laptop compartment that's still comfortable to carry all day. If you're drawn to the Recon, we also think you'd like the Osprey Nebula 32, which has an even more sporty vibe. The Patagonia Black Hole Micro MLC is another great crossover travel-work bag, with a much smaller 22L capacity.
Sometimes, all you need are the basics. That is exactly what the Matein Travel offers, without upcharging you for extra features or extreme durability that not everyone needs. We liked this bag's wide-open storage, comfortable fit, and amazing price. It offers about 30 liters of space, making it one of the larger packs in our lineup. That's large enough to carry your laptop, books, supplies, accessories, and an extra set of clothes. We found it to be reasonably durable, water-resistant, and scuff-proof, and we think it is an excellent choice for students or office workers looking to stretch a dollar. “During testing, I used my Matein every day for one month and loved how it performed,” said a member of our testing crew.
The zippers on the Matein aren't very robust, and the same goes for many other components of the bag. We liked its canvas-like polyester shell, but it's fairly thin and doesn't offer a lot of extra padding. This bag's design falls in line with the average, run-of-the-mill school backpack, so it lacks a sternum strap — a helpful stabilizer for riding a bike, skateboard, or scooter. But, when it comes to cost versus value, we still feel the Matein performs better than its price may suggest, and it sets itself apart from your average school bag by having a dedicated laptop sleeve. The The North Face Recon is another one of our favorite deals. It costs more, but is better made and has more features.
We like the Matein a lot. For us, it was more than its amazing price -- we really do think it offers a decent amount of value and function. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Getting to work or school each day can often involve a mix of driving, walking, biking, or public transportation. Having a sturdy, protective pack for your laptop and supplies is a luxury that can sometimes be worth a higher price. The Nomatic Navigator 15 offers the extras needed to get your things from point A to point B free from damage or theft. What we loved the most about this model is its super dense ballistic nylon shell, weatherproof zippers, and interlocking zipper pulls. It also has a secret stash pocket and zippered RFID safe pouch. “I absolutely love the extras this pack offers. To me, it's worth the extra cost,” said our lead tester. Although no laptop backpack is indestructible, our tests convinced us the Nomatic is as solid and protective as they come. It also has three large grab handles and an impressive laptop compartment with a false bottom. This pack is small, which makes it easier to wear and maneuver, but is also expandable for days when you need to pack a little more.
The shell of the Nomatic is quite rigid, so it doesn't pack down flat, and it isn't as easy to stuff into tight places on a bus or subway. It's also more expensive and is only available in one color. That all said, we really didn't have any major complaints about this backpack, and we believe it will last you many years with proper care. We also love the sturdiness of the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L and the Timbuk2 Authority Deluxe. The WANDRD Nimbus 18 is also well-built but is made from thinner fabrics.
We mostly have good things to say about the Nomatic. It's built to last, impeccably designed, and super easy to wear, and it protects like a mother bear. Credit: Jason Wanlass
A Modern Briefcase Option For a More Professional Carry
Sometimes a backpack just doesn't cut it. If you're looking for a new way of carrying your laptop and supplies, the Aer Tech Brief is classy, rugged, protective, and sensibly priced. What you get with the Aer is a solid ballistic-nylon exterior, a designated laptop compartment, and an organized briefcase layout that's easy to use. What we loved the most was the bonus shoulder strap. It's nicely padded and quickly turns the Aer into a shoulder or messenger bag for hands-free navigation. “I've used this case for quite a while, and I love its class and versatility,” said our lead tester. “It's a great way to carry my tech and my work supplies.” The Tech Brief provides tons of sleeves and pockets for your things. There's also a place for your tablet.
The Tech Brief only has 16 liters of storage space, so you'll need to pack wisely if you're used to carrying a lot of extras. We also wish it had an interior or exterior water-bottle pouch. And, although the fleece-lined laptop sleeve is protected in a zippered compartment, we think it should be secured with a Velcro strap. That all said, we found very little to complain about with this amazing briefcase-style carrier, and its price makes it even more of an attractive buy. If you'd rather opt for a true messenger bag for your laptop, we really like what the Osprey Metron 18 Messenger and Timbuk2 Especial Stash Messenger bring to the table. If you like the durability of ballistic nylon, but you prefer a backpack, the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L is a very solid option.
Simply put, the Patagonia Black Hole Micro MLC is a jack-of-all-trades. This rather simple-looking pack surprised us with all the types of trips it can handle. At its core, the Patagonia is a backpack, but don't let those shoulder straps and daisy chain loops fool you. This pack has a hidden cross-body strap that converts it to a shoulder bag, and a well-placed side handle lets you carry it like a briefcase. In fact, if you choose to carry it by hand, the shoulder straps can be quickly tucked out of sight. “This is one of the most versatile laptop backpacks I've ever tested,” said Jason Wanlass. “It really smashes it when it comes to options.” The inside offers just as much versatility as the outside. One of our favorite features of this bag is that it opens like luggage (equal clam shell halves), and one side contains the laptop sleeve and several compartments to organize work items like pens and chargers. The other whole half of the Patagonia is a zippered compartment that can carry a one- to two-day's worth of clothing for a quick overnighter — pretty cool.
Compared to other models on our list, the Patagonia doesn't offer the strongest laptop protection. Its shell is reasonably water-resistant, but this pack is a little lightweight when it comes to securely storing tech. We also wish the overall padding was a bit thicker, even the shoulder straps are a little thin. As for organization, this bag is pretty basic, which will appeal to free-flowing packers, but not as much to more detail-oriented users. Either way, the Patagonia's strongest trait still stands — it's really versatile. If you like the idea of having a bag that can handle more than just a work commute, but want more of a traditional backpack, the The North Face Recon and The North Face Borealis are all really good options.
If you almost never fly without bringing your laptop along, the WANDRD Nimbus 18 is one of our favorite personal items because it's lightweight but sturdy, and its pliable shell stuffs well under seats or into overhead bins. The thing we loved most about the Nimbus is the dense, built-in back panel that adds rigidity and great protection for the laptop or tablet inside. Even better, this pack has a full-length metal spine. We love the added strength both of these features provide. “I think these two protective features give this bag an incredible amount of strength,” said one of our testers who travels. “Having this extra resiliency allowed me to stow this bag without worry.” The 18 L capacity is also a safe bet to fit under most airplane seats. We also appreciate using the luggage passthrough strap while cruising through airports, and the waterproof exterior flies under the radar, while keeping electronics safe from unexpected rain.
The WANDRD isn't very large, so you'll want to stick to packing the basics. Likewise, its packing system is pretty vanilla, so don't expect a lot of organizational features. But you can fit larger items like an extra pair of shoes, or a bulkier jacket. The outer fabric on this pack is a little thinner than some of our more robust models, so a little more care is advised when shoving it under the seat in front of you. Despite these few negatives, we traveled extensively with this bag and loved how it performed. The Patagonia Black Hole Micro is another great travel option, because it has a designated compartment for clothing that comes in handy for quick overnight trips, plus it's a bit bigger.
Not all laptop bags were created equal. We love that the Bellroy Tokyo Wonder Tote provides an alternative to the traditional backpack while still being functional and professional. After all, who says you have to carry your laptop the same way everyone else does? The Bellroy is a well-built, tote-style carrier with a classy exterior and a briefcase-like organizational structure on the inside. We liked its extra-long handles. They were easy to use by hand or on the shoulder, and their underside is lined with rubber gripping to help them stay put. Structurally, there isn't much to this bag, but that's the whole point. It's simple, classy, and provides enough features to add value. It even has two water-bottle pouches that are tucked away on either end of the bag's interior — a much better look than having them hang on the outside. “During testing, I used my tote for work for more than three weeks and loved how it performed. It's super convenient,” said one of our lead testers.
We think the laptop protection could be better. The Tokyo Wonder Tote offers a decent sleeve, but it's placed wide open in the bag's main compartment. Although we didn't experience any problems, we do think this area could be beefed up. Because it is wider than it is tall, this tote takes up a little more space on buses, subways, or in the car. Lastly, because it is a tote, it can get heavy on the shoulder, and it's simply not as ergonomic to carry as a well-structured backpack. However, overall, we love its style and solid construction. The Troubadour Apex Backpack 4.0 and Everlane The ReNew Transit also have style-forward designs and offer a more comfortable backpack carry.
The Bellroy has a distinct professionalism that backpacks just can't offer. Totes aren't for everyone, but if you like them, we think this is one to consider. Credit: Jason Wanlass
While not for everyone, we love the organizational nature of the Lenovo Legion Armored, particularly for gamers or others who need to carry a lot of tech. The Legion offers designated spots for your laptop, tablet, headset, keyboard, mouse, and more. “I loved having a place for everything,” said one of our testers, “This bag is larger and can easily carry it all. That's super convenient.” We loved the laptop compartment and this pack's overall comfort the most. Given its price point, we aren't completely convinced of the Lenovo's long-term durability, but we weren't given any reasons to doubt this bag during our testing phase either.
It's one of the biggest laptop backpacks we've ever tested (32.5 liters), so that means the Legion Armored is also a little more bulky. This makes it slightly harder to carry, manage on public transportation, store in a closet, or neatly place under a desk. We also didn't like that it lacks a luggage strap for attaching it to carry-on, and it's not a backpack we would choose to travel with. But, on the whole, we think this is a great backpack at a great price. However, if you just don't need its size, the manufacturer also makes the Lenovo Laptop B210. It's pretty basic, but we love its price. If you like the sleek look of the Lenovo, but you want better construction quality, we recommend the Timbuk2 Authority Deluxe or the Nomatic Navigator 15.
The Lenovo Legion Armored can handle laptops up to 17". Credit: Jason Wanlass
We loved this pack's soft, airy padding. Although it's not overly dense, it's still plush and comfortable. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Product Comparison Table
We purchased and tested all of our laptop backpacks side by side to find out what we liked and didn't like about each. Credit: Jason Wanlass
How We Tested
We wore these bags everywhere to test each backpack in real-life scenarios. We assessed which bags provided the best storage capacity and protection, stuffing each with electronics, gym clothes, travel necessities, lunches, and office supplies to see which were the most comfortable when fully weighed down. We wore them on bike rides, and we sprayed them systematically to simulate how they might fare in a downpour. We took them on month-long traveling journeys, daily commutes to the office, and working train journeys to assess their ease of use and access while on the go. Read more about our complete testing breakdown here.
Scores for each laptop backpack are weighted across five rating metrics:
Comfort and Fit (30% of overall score weight)
Laptop Protection (20% weighting)
Storage and Organization (20% weighting)
Ease of Use (15% weighting)
Versatility (15% weighting)
Just one of our many backpack tests - spraying each with a hose for 30 seconds and seeing how much soaks through. Credit: Maggie Nichols
Why Trust GearLab
Our review team comprises numerous veteran GearLab reviewers, with endless additional contributions from laptop-lugging friends and family, including teachers, software engineers, globetrotters, and other commuting professionals who help us gather data and provide feedback on what makes a great laptop backpack across varied needs. Jason Wanlass is one of our seasoned gear testers and leads our laptop backpack review. He's been with our team for several years. Jason has hiked and backpacked all over the world and is also our lead luggage and carry-on reviewer. His decades of experience with backpacks and luggage made it a no-brainer to make him our top tester for this review. Jason knows bags, and knows how important it can be to choose the right one for the job, whether he's flying across the globe for a multi-month stint abroad, or simply commuting to the local cafe to get some writing done.
We tested our laptop backpacks while at home... Credit: Jason Wanlass
...at work... Credit: Jason Wanlass
...and traveling the world. Credit: Maggie Nichols
Analysis and Test Results
We're always on the lookout for great bags and have researched dozens of models while selecting the most promising to purchase and test side-by-side. Each one is scored across the metrics outlined above.
Worse Value
Better Value
What's the Best Value?
Of our test group, a handful of packs stand out for their relative value. The North Face Recon offers top-tier quality for the price. You can depend on it to last for many years, and it offers high-capacity storage, solid laptop protection, and great organizational features. The Matein Travel pack is an inexpensive option that functions well enough for most folks, though it's less durable and better for trips close to home. We wholeheartedly recommend any of these bags if you're looking for outstanding value.
The Timbuk2 Authority Deluxe is pricier. Still, it has exceptional performance. Its well-padded laptop compartment, array of handy pockets, and passthrough sleeve for easy attachment to a roller bag handle allow it to compete with bags that cost twice as much.
The TNF Recon (right) is a high-quality laptop backpack for a price that we think is more than worth its excellent performance. Credit: Maggie Nichols
Comfort and Fit
Most people turn to a backpack when looking for a comfortable way to get their daily essentials to and fro. Nobody wants a backpack with straps that dig into the shoulders, or a structureless back that leaves them hot and sweaty. To test comfort, we filled these bags in various ways with both standard and heavy loads. We also assessed the thickness, width, and shape of the shoulder straps, as well as the design of the back panel, and enlisted friends to provide input on how the packs fit and feel for everyday wear.
The Lenovo Legion Armored outperformed most of the bags on our list. The Lenovo is roomy and has soft, breathable padding on its shoulder straps and back panel. Right on the heels of the Lenovo is the Timbuk2 Authority Deluxe. It stands out for the comfortable bubble padding on its ergonomic straps and back. The raised design of the padding facilitates airflow around the back to reduce sweating. It also comes with a sternum strap and smaller straps that seem to fit smaller torsos well.
We wore the Timbuk2 Authority Deluxe for an hour each day while walking city streets and negotiating public transit. It consistently offered a high level of comfort. Credit: Jason Wanlass
The square bubble padding of the Timbuk2 Authority Deluxe not only provides cushion but also space for airflow. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Other top performers include the Nomatic Navigator 15 and Aer Tech Brief. The thing we loved most about the Aer is its ability to be carried as both a briefcase and a shoulder bag. Its cross-body strap is well padded, not just an afterthought, and this allows for a variety of comfortable carry options for a broad range of users.
We loved the comfort of the Aer Tech Brief. It was easy to haul around and we enjoyed not having a pack on our back, especially in the summer heat. Credit: Jason Wanlass
The rest of our best performers include the Osprey Metron 18 Messenger,The North Face Recon, and the Timbuk2 Especial Stash Messenger. The North Face has some of the best padding of all the models on our list. It's a proprietary FlexVent suspension system that combines a stiffer back panel with thick, ergonomically placed padding.
A close up of The North Face Recon's Flex Vent System. We've worn this pack daily for nearly a year and have loved it. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Strolling the city streets with our Osprey Metron 18 Messenger. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Heading for a lunch break in the city park with our Timbuk2 Especial Stash Messenger. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Rounding out this metric were the Troubadour Apex Backpack 4.0, WANDRD Nimbus 18, and the Patagonia Black Hole Micro MLC. All three scored pretty evenly, but if we had to choose, many of our testers would probably pick the Troubadour.
The Troubadour Apex Backpack 4.0 is one of the more comfortable packs we've tested. It also fits a broader range of body types. Credit: Jason Wanlass
We also loved the design of the Incase Icon. It has well-padded straps in a unique shape, conforming around the neck to support heavier loads. We also love that it includes a sternum strap and load stabilizers, which enable the wearer to pull the weight of the pack closer to the body.
The Incase Icon sits nicely against the shoulders and back. We found it comfortable to wear while walking, bicycling, or blading. Credit: Jason Wanlass
The Matein Travel and the Lenovo Laptop B210 are two of the least comfortable bags we tested. They're not bad for shorter distances, but the lightweight and largely unstructured design of the backpanel can feel bogged down with a lot of weight.
Weighing in at about one pound (empty), the Lenovo Laptop B210 is one of the lightest of the bunch. Credit: Jason Wanlass
The lightweight materials of the Lenovo Laptop B210 twist and flex well, making it easy to bend and move while wearing. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Laptop Protection
The key job of any laptop backpack is to transport your laptop safely and securely with you throughout your day. To judge this, we look at the padding and other features of the laptop pocket itself, including compartment size, the system that keeps electronics in place, and any security features that mitigate theft. Looking at the bag as a whole, we are also interested in water resistance and durability.
The Timbuk2 Authority Deluxe and Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L are two of the top-scorers here. Both provide ample protection in their main laptop pockets. Additionally, both packs are water-resistant and offer well-padded laptop compartments.
The Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L is built like a tank. We especially loved its side-loading laptop compartment. It's covered in padding, has a solid safety strap, and it's reasonably waterproof. Credit: Jason Wanlass
We also loved the protective abilities of the Nomatic Navigator 15 and the Peak Design Everyday. Each has a robust exterior shell, effectively repels water, and offers the kind of padding and security that we look for in a laptop backpack. Both also have snug-fitting laptop sleeves that keep the device securely in place, so it doesn't jostle around or slide down to the bottom. They also have locking zipper pulls. This certainly doesn't make it theft-proof, but it would deter someone trying to be opportunistic. The Nomatic has a false bottom in the laptop compartment that keeps your laptop slightly lifted from the bottom of the bag, so it doesn't take the brunt of the hit when you set you backpack down a little too heavily.
One small but important feature we loved about the Nomatic Navigator 15 was its interlocking zipper pulls. They help keep the laptop compartment securely closed. Credit: Jason Wanlass
The Peak Design Everyday has rubber zipper pulls that loop around the body of the pack, preventing the side pockets from opening accidentally and acting as a (light) theft deterrent. Credit: Ben Applebaum-Bauch
Water Resistant, Not Waterproof
It's important to note that none of the laptop backpacks tested are fully waterproof. Some offer more water resistance than others, but none completely protect against moisture and rain. If you want more security, consider buying a small rain pack cover if your backpack doesn't already have one.
There are several other models in our lineup that we feel provide above-average laptop protection. Most models from outdoor manufacturers have a decent level of extra padding mixed with tougher exterior fabrics that are resistant to scuffs and water. We gave solid marks to the The North Face Recon, The North Face Borealis, Osprey Nebula 32, and Osprey Metron 18 Messenger. The Osprey doesn't have a lot of padding, but we loved that it comes with its own rain cover.
Using a water feature at the city park to test our Osprey's pack cover. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Other top performers include the Timbuk2 Especial Stash Messenger, Aer Tech Brief, Lenovo Legion Armored, Troubadour Apex Backpack 4.0, and WANDRD Nimbus 18. All four models scored equally for their good laptop compartments, water-resistant, and overall protective fabrics and padding.
We don't feel the Timbuk2 Especial Stash Messenger offers a lot of padding, but we do love its waterproof laptop compartment. It seals off with a waterproof zipper and is surrounded by a waterproof membrane. Credit: Jason Wanlass
We really liked the Lenovo Legion Armored's padding. The entire laptop compartment's interior is lined with this cushy, stippled cushion. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Storage and Organization
We consider storage in a couple of ways, including the total capacity of each pack, its internal organization, and overall stability. Though some packs are large enough to bring everything and the kitchen sink, bigger isn't always better. We tested bags ranging from 15L to 32L, but found the sweet spot to be right around 25L, which should carry just about everything you need for a day away from home, and maybe even a change of clothes for a postwork yoga session. Aside from volume, the top scorers in this metric offered a perfect combination of organizational capabilities and useful pocket configurations.
The Nomatic Navigator 15, Troubadour Apex Backpack 4.0, and Incase Icon are three backpacks that fit the bill here. Though the Nomatic has the smallest capacity in the lineup, it expands up to 20L when you need to pack a bit more. The Troubadour has an excellent layout that allows you to fit more than you'd expect in its 22L interior, without adding a ton of bulk.
We appreciated the slim design of the Troubadour Apex. Credit: Jason Wanlass
The smaller size of the Troubadour backpack didn't overwhelm more petite frames. Credit: Jason Wanlass
We also loved the carefully planned layouts of the Timbuk2 Authority Deluxe and the Lenovo Legion Armored. Both models scored similarly for this metric. Each has its own unique storage system that offers a higher level of organization without overdoing it. In particular, we loved the Lenovo's tech-storage system. This bag has a place for your laptop, tablet, keyboard, mouse, and headset.
The Lenovo Legion offers a ton of storage space that is also labeled for your devices and accessories. Credit: Jason Wanlass
The Aer Tech Brief, and Osprey Metron 18 Messenger also received high marks from our testers for this metric. Each offers a fairly similar organizational structure, maximizing organization on a smaller scale, since they both offer a more compact 16 L and 18 L of carrying space, respectively. The North Face Recon has a wide-open system, with a whopping 30 L of space, which allows you to stuff your laptop, a packed lunch, and extra jacket, and whatever else you can imagine you'd need in a day. It employs strategic pocket placement and clever internal compartments to help almost anyone meet their organizational needs. We found endless options for storing items no matter where we were heading, from a compartment full of sleeves and slots for everything (pens, lip balm, tablets, etc.) to a hidden microfleece-lined eyewear pocket, a stretchy mesh overflow pocket, and two expandable water bottle pockets.
The North Face Recon has a large capacity and a ton of useful compartments, pockets, and organizational features.
The Matein Travel and The North Face Borealis both have 28 liters of storage. The former has greater structure to its internal organization and a wider, more stable design. In contrast, the Borealis has a large open compartment for flexibility to store things however you'd like and a couple of smaller pockets.
The Matein Travel is simple and inexpensive, but it offers a lot of storage. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Ease of Use
Backpacks aren't especially complicated, but small features make some easier to use than others. For this metric, we look at the utility of the pockets, overall gear accessibility, and other features like water bottle pockets, zippers, clips, and luggage pass-throughs that improve the user experience. We also considered models that offered alternative carrying methods, like totes, briefcases, and messenger bags.
Most of the bags we tested have at least one external water bottle pocket. However, our main complaint with most of them is that they are often too narrow to fit the larger capacity bottles we love to bring for a long day out. In these cases, we ended up tossing our bottle in the main compartment, which makes it all the more important to find a leak-proof water bottle.
The Bellroy Tokyo Wonder Tote and Patagonia Black Hole Micro MLC led the pack when it came to ease of use, followed by the Aer Tech Brief. All three offer simple designs that are straightforward and easy to use and understand, providing organization, but not so much that you get lost in a maze of pockets and compartments. Many of our testers loved the Patagonia's wide-open design. They also enjoyed the diversity and ease of the Bellroy's tote-style layout. As for the Aer Tech Brief, it simply doesn't get much easier than its grab-and-go briefcase handles — no hoisting, slinging, or adjusting.
The Bellroy is easy and simple. For many of our testers, it was their favorite grab-and-go bag. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Other top-scorers include the Timbuk2 Authority Deluxe, Timbuk2 Especial Stash Messenger, and Osprey Metron 18 Messenger. We found each to offer some of the most convenient features and functions. We specifically loved the ease of the Osprey and Timbuk2 Especial Stash Messenger. Both are messenger bags, so they are super easy to swing onto a shoulder and go. The strap on the Timbuk2 has a quick-release buckle so you don't have to hoist the strap over your head if you don't want to, and the Osprey has a handy cross strap to keep the pack secure on your back when riding a bike.
Cruising through the city with our Timbuk2 Especial Stash Messenger. It slings and adjusts easily and has an easy-to-use layout. Credit: Jason Wanlass
The Timbuk2 Authority Deluxe has a skinny water bottle holder that is fine for tall 16 or 20-ounce bottles. Credit: Ben Applebaum-Bauch
Versatility
We love a bag that we can take from the office to the trail, gym, or out of town. Here, we look at the bags' style and carry options, as well as how the pockets handle different-sized and shaped items aside from laptops, and any additional features that make a pack useful for multiple activities.
Extreme versatility and ease are two reasons we love the Patagonia Black Hole Micro MLC. The 22L pack scored the highest in this metric. This pack's simple clamshell layout makes loading and unloading a breeze, and it offers versatility in its carrying style as well as packing ability. It offers three carrying modes: backpack, briefcase, and shoulder bag. It also has a zippered compartment for clothing, so it can double as a small piece of luggage for an overnight trip. If you need even more capacity for longer travel, we also tested the larger Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L, which has a similar layout and can take care of packing for up to a week.
The Patagonia swallowed up our laptop, accessories, and two days' worth of clothes. Credit: Jason Wanlass
It also has a pass-through strap for luggage. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Close behind the Patagonia Black Hole Micro MLC are the Aer Tech Brief, Nomatic Navigator 15, Timbuk2 Authority Deluxe, and the WANDRD Nimbus 18. If you're in the market for versatility, we recommend reading our reviews on each of these models. All four offer unique design features that make them unique and accommodating. For instance, the WANDRD Nimbus 18 offers exceptional laptop protection, but also has extras, like a pass-through luggage strap and metal frame, that make it a sturdy option for air travel.
In addition to being a great laptop backpack, the WANDRD Nimbus 18 is also one of our favorite personal items for travel. And, we loved that it can easily double as a day pack. Credit: Jason Wanlass
We also loved the functionality of the Solo Duane Hybrid. We appreciated its detachable straps the most among all the ones we tested because they allow us to configure the bag in three ways: as a backpack, messenger bag, or briefcase. We'd probably go with the messenger strap if we had to pick between these three carry modes.
Showing all three of the Solo Duane Hybrid's carrying options. Credit: Jason Wanlass
The The North Face Borealis, Recon, and Osprey Nebula 32 are all similar in their town-to-trail versatility. They don't look as professional as some of the other bags we tested, but they will work well in a casual office environment, and each has solid laptop protection and bonus storage space on the front. The thing we love about each is their ability to double as a daypack for hiking or other adventures.
The Osprey Nebula 32 has a look that says it's ready for the outdoors as much as a day in the office. Credit: Ben Applebaum-Bauch
Lastly, we also liked the versatility of the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L and the Peak Design Everyday. Both are classy and professional. They have a sleek aesthetic that fits well in the office. In particular, we love the adaptability of the Peak Design pack. The adjustable inserts are well-suited for photographers, but its large capacity makes it a nice school bag, too. The Matein Travel is a budget-friendly counterpart to the Peak Design, as it's less sophisticated but still pretty solid as a work or school pack.
We're all headed to different places with our laptops. We're here to help you find the best option for you. Credit: Jason Wanlass
How to Choose a Laptop Backpack
While you already know you need a backpack to transport your laptop from here to there, figuring out which bag is right for your needs, travel style, and aesthetic can be challenging. We can help, and if you want more advice, check out our full article on laptop backpack buying advice.
Though it sounds obvious, make sure whatever backpack you choose has plenty of space to fit your laptop. Measure your screen diagonally from corner to corner to know what dimensions you want in a bag. If you have a large laptop, finding a bag that fits your device without leaving its corners exposed to being hit against passing objects is paramount. And if you're the type of person who likes to toss your bag down when you walk in the door, you'll want to select a pack that has adequate padding along the underside or, better yet, a suspension system, or false bottom, to stop your laptop from riding on the bottom of the bag. Additionally, if you have a heavy laptop, look at the back panel and shoulder strap padding, as that will make a big difference in how comfortably you can carry that big brick around without wanting to drop it at the first opportunity.
If you're a daily commuter and tend to pack light, a smaller volume bag in the 15-25 liter range will likely fit everything you need. Bags in the 30-45 liter range can get heavy when fully loaded, and are best for traveling, overnight trips, and folks who bring many things when they head to campus or the office. Aside from volume, you'll want to consider how the bag accommodates and protects items other than your laptop. For example, if you often bring a tablet in addition to your laptop, look for a bag that offers secure storage for both. If you frequently add and remove a jacket or another layer of clothing, having a handy external pocket or bungee strap to secure it can be extremely useful.
While most laptop backpacks have a variety of pockets for your belongings, understanding how you like to organize things will help you choose the right bag for you. If you like to have a mobile desk drawer that stays neatly put within your backpack, look for a model with lots of small internal pockets to hold little things like pens, sticky notes, tissues, and more. On the other hand, if you leave all your small items at the office and empty your bag each night, it's better to find a bag with fewer pockets. This will ultimately give you more flexibility in how you pack as well. If you travel with a lot of electronic gear, like photography or audio equipment, search for a pack that has removable and customizable dividers that can keep those items organized and protected en route.
The aesthetics and versatility of your bag matter whether you're heading onto campus for a long day of classes, walking into the boardroom to give a presentation, or hopping on a plane to a far corner of the globe. If you work in a highly professional environment, consider the look of your backpack and whether or not it fits in your workspace. Color choices, zipper pulls, and overall structure can all make a big difference. Are you looking for a travel companion that can bring your laptop on the journey while also carrying your needs for a full day of outdoor adventuring? You can go with a more relaxed and personalized style, but be sure to look for a bag that has decent standard carrying space in addition to a protective laptop compartment.
Finding the right laptop backpack can sometimes be a bit daunting. We hope we've helped you get a little closer to making your final decision. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Other Notable Laptop Backpacks to Consider
We couldn't include every cool backpack we saw when doing our research for this review. Below are a few that caught our eye but didn't make the final cut.
Able Carry Max EDC: This bag had not yet been released at the time of our testing, but it looks like an interesting (albeit pricey) backpack with many convenience features that city commuters will love. We plan to include it in our next update.
July Carry All 20L: We have tested hardsided luggage from July and liked it, so we considered including the Carry All laptop backpack in this review. Like many of July's pieces, it has a stylishly simple exterior; however, upon closer inspection, the internal organization seems pretty basic, and the bag overall doesn't seem to offer anything special compared to the competition.
Patagonia Refugio Daypack 30L: We tested this backpack a few years back and really liked the design. However, Patagonia recently updated the internal organization system of the pack in a way that makes it a better casual day pack than a dedicated laptop bag.
Conclusion
Laptop-specific bags can bring you peace of mind when toting around an expensive piece of equipment. We hope this review of the best laptop backpacks for carrying the necessary electronics in this day and age will help you find what is most important to you, whether that's style, comfort, fit, or protection. And if you want to combine your work and travel bags, check out our favorite travel backpacks.
If you've got a longer trip planned, we've travel backpacks equipped for trips of a week or more. If you prefer to bring your own bag, but still need some extra protection for your laptop, consider pairing your favorite backpack or tote with a laptop sleeve.
