To test the bags featured in our laptop backpack review, we loaded them with our laptops and other supplies. Then we took them to the office, coffee shops, biking around town, and on airplanes and assessed them in controlled environments. In this review, we consider five important metrics to rate each backpack.
We tested our packs at home, but we also used them daily for work, school, leisure, and travel. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Laptop Protection
We assessed the thickness and cushion of the primary laptop pocket as well as any auxiliary electronics sleeves. We review suspension systems and additional layers of padding in backplates. We also look at water resistance and any features that make it more difficult for someone to steal the computer.
Testing this pack's built-in pack cover to see how it responds to a lot of water. Credit: Jason Wanlass
We examined the interior of every laptop sleeve. We looked for things like quality padding, protective straps, and placement. Packs that offered a separate zippered compartment for our laptops generally scored higher. Credit: Jason Wanlass
We conducted at-home spray tests to see how each pack's fabrics and zippers repelled water. Credit: Jason Wanlass
We also looked for other protective features like these interlocking zipper pulls. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Whenever possible, we disassembled each pack without destroying it. Sometimes we found added features like this pack's plastic back panel and metal frame. These types of hidden extras are what make a backpack great. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Comfort and Fit
We rated the straps — including their width, thickness, shape, and padding quality — and assessed their adjustability. We also looked at the back padding, similarly examining thickness, rigidity, and airflow. We also weighed these packs and looked at other features like waist and sternum straps to determine how well a load is distributed across the body.
We used each pack for work, school, and fun in order to get a feel for its comfort levels. Credit: Jason Wanlass
We tested them on many body types to see how they felt. Credit: Jason Wanlass
We loaded them with our normal supplies and then additionally weighed each pack with a ream of paper. Then we walked and assessed how the pack felt and responded to the added weight. Credit: Jason Wanlass
We examined each pack's ability to provide air flow. This pack has built-in channels that allow micro bursts of air to pass in between the pack and the user's back. We liked this design. Credit: Jason Wanlass
We also looked for quality buckles, shoulder straps, and sternum straps, and scored each product accordingly. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Storage
Here, we were interested in each pack's total capacity and the space's functionality. We also look at the stability of each pack and how easy or difficult it is to keep the pack weight well-balanced.
We liked models that were straightforward and easy to pack and organize. Credit: Jason Wanlass
We also loved models that offered a sturdy water-bottle pouch that was substantial enough to carry larger containers. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Ease of Use
We scored all the features that make a laptop backpack easier or more difficult to use. This includes things like the utility and array of pockets, gear accessibility, zipper quality, and any additional features like key clips or special openings for cables.
We liked added features like this USB port. Models with these types of thoughtful conveniences usually scored higher. Credit: Jason Wanlass
We loved packs that offered secret pockets for our valuables. Credit: Jason Wanlass
We looked for key clips. This is a simple feature, but we liked knowing that our keys were secured and safe. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Versatility
For this metric, we look at how valuable each pack is for a variety of uses and situations. We assess the look and style of each pack, the number and type of available colors, and any special features like luggage pass-throughs, daisy chains, and elastic cords that may give a model an edge over the others for a particular use.
We like packs that can double as day packs for any adventure we have in mind. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Bags like this one, that offer different carrying options, scored additional points for their versatility. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Simple features like a luggage strap make an ordinary bag more versatile. Credit: Jason Wanlass
