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No work outfit is complete without a good bag to hold all your belongings. For those who need to carry a computer, laptop bags are more sophisticated and elegant than backpacks and offer more storage space than briefcases.
After years of testing, we’ve settled on six of our most popular bags: a waterproof polyester tote with clever pockets; a soft tote that can be worn cross-body; a sophisticated leather bag with a zippered laptop compartment; a splurge-worthy leather bag with a well-organized interior that you’ll want to keep forever; a minimalist vegan bag with extra space; and an affordable faux leather bag with a dedicated laptop compartment.
This durable and stylish laptop bag features a thoughtful design and interior features like a pull-out bottle pocket and a sealed zipper. However, its durable fabric shell is a bit rough and may cause pilling on some sweaters and shirts.
Who it’s for: Anyone who prefers something more casual than a briefcase but still wants to look neat.
Pros: The Bellroy Tokyo Tote (formerly known as the Tokyo Tote Second Edition) is a great-looking, well-made bag that’s perfect for any environment, from coffee shops to boardrooms. It’s perfect for those who want to look professional and protect their gear, but don’t want to compromise their semi-casual dress code.
The Bellroy bag we tested is made from lightweight polyester (made from recycled water bottles) that’s durable and water-resistant. This bag is perfect for those who need something that can withstand wear and tear, drops, stains, and the daily grind of packing too much stuff. Even if it rains during their commute, commuters can rest easy knowing that the outer shell of this laptop bag will withstand a washdown. Plus, an exterior zippered pocket provides a seal to prevent water from getting in and damaging valuables.
When we tested the previous generation of the Tokyo Tote, our reviewers loved the magnetically lined interior pocket (for keeping water bottles upright in the bag). The latest version also retains the beloved pocket design. When not in use, simply slide them inside and they’ll stow away in the bag. These interior pockets are located on either side of the bag and are large enough to hold a pair of flip-flops or dirty gym clothes while keeping them separate from your other belongings.
The Bellroy Tokyo Tote also features a spacious exterior zippered pocket, as well as two interior pockets (one with a key clip) large enough to hold a Field Notes notebook, smartphone, sunglasses, or USB cable. A padded laptop compartment provides secure protection and can hold laptops up to 13 inches. The handles are 12 inches long, which is much longer and more comfortable to use than any other bag handle we recommend. The handles are padded for added comfort and covered with non-slip rubber to keep the bag from slipping off your shoulder during your commute.
The downsides are minor but not devastating: The Bellroy Tokyo Tote’s sturdy shell is similar to that of its now-discontinued Tote model, which we previously tested. The outer shell can ruin delicate work clothes, and in previous tests, the Tote’s outer shell even stained a knit sweater and a polyester shirt. The new handles have softer edges and didn’t snag as much on our shirts during testing. The shoulder straps also feature anti-slip pads, further reducing hair buildup on the shoulders (though not the chest area, which is most prone to hair buildup while being carried).
The woven material of this laptop bag also acts as a magnet for pet hair. If you have pets at home, we do not recommend the black model, as it will attract pet hair of all colors.
Dimensions: 14 x 18.5 x 5 inches; Handle Length: 12 inches; Weight: 1.4 pounds; Warranty: Six years; Colors: Charcoal black, navy blue, cream, deep plum, lime green
This nylon tote is perfect for those who travel frequently. It also functions as a messenger bag and provides ample organization and laptop protection. However, it takes the top spot in our recommendations because of its additional features.
Who it’s for: Commuters who like the look of a tote bag but are more functional than a shoulder bag.
Why we like it: We like the Lo & Sons OG 2 Nylon Shoulder Bag (Medium) because it’s so versatile. The bag features a long, comfortable shoulder strap and multiple compartments for storing items, while also keeping your laptop secure. It’s the perfect combination of a tote and a shoulder bag.
This bag caught our attention with its shiny hardware, contrast lining, multiple pockets, and studs along the hem. The OG 2 features a three-tone design with a neutral exterior and a variety of interesting interior color options. Additionally, it is also available in medium and large sizes.
This laptop bag has plenty of organization features: four large zippered compartments, four slip pockets, two pen pockets, a laptop or document pocket, a hidden shoe compartment, and a long key lanyard. Half of the bag’s storage space is hidden in a hidden exterior compartment thanks to the hidden zipper design. We think that means subway thieves won’t notice you when they’re looking for an easy target.
The OG 2 will protect your laptop better than any other bag we recommend. The laptop compartment, the outside, and even each pocket are softly padded to protect your electronics from nicks and scratches.
This bag does a very good job of preventing liquid leaks. It has tight seams so spilled drinks don’t seep through to the bottom, unlike the competing Lo & Sons Seville Tote.
The OG 2 is the only laptop bag we recommend that’s designed for travel. Both sizes—medium and large—will fit under most airplane seats. A zippered pocket on the back allows travelers to attach the bag to a suitcase handle.
This tote is also one of two bags we recommend that come with a crossbody strap (the other is our EaseGave Laptop Bag). Each bag has a wide, thick strap that acts as a seat belt, but we like the OG 2’s design better, which features thicker hardware and a longer strap. Thicker slide adjusters ensure that the straps don’t suddenly sag as you walk to work. Plus, the longer straps—7 inches longer than competitors—can be adjusted to fit a variety of body types and heights. We like that this bag can be carried by the shorter handle, making it easier to grab and carry.
Cons: The OG 2′s slim profile isn’t ideal for those who commute and carry a lot of gear. The bag is thickly padded and tapers off at the top and sides, so there’s little storage. It also makes it difficult to find things while on the go.
At 2.6 pounds, this medium-sized bag is one of the heaviest we tested. Only the Dagne Dover Signature Tote (the classic model), Lo & Sons Seville Tote, and Mosiso Laptop Tote Bag (all competitors) are heavier, at 2.7 to 3 pounds each. (Note: The Lo & Sons OG 2 Large weighs slightly more, at 3 pounds.)
Some 14-inch and 15-inch laptops will fit in the main compartment of the bag, but not in the padded laptop compartment.
Dimensions: 13.75 x 16.6 x 6.75 inches (medium); 14.25 x 16.5 x 6.75 inches (large) Handle Length: 9.5 inches (medium); 10 inches (large) Weight: 2.6 pounds (medium); 3 pounds (large) Warranty: One year warranty Colors: Black/Gold/Gray, Black/Gold/Lavender, Black/Gold/Camel, Black/Silver/Lavender, Black/Silver/Gray, Black/Bronze/Gray, Navy/Gold/Camel, Gray/Silver/Sky Blue
If you are ready to buy a quality bag, then this bag made of pebbled leather is your choice. Inside the bag there is a special compartment for a laptop, which closes with a zipper, and the rest of the space remains on top.
Who it’s for: Those with a high budget who want a premium leather bag with a classic, sophisticated silhouette.
Why you should buy it: The Tory Burch Perry Three-Compartment Tote is pricey, but for the price, it offers sophisticated style, soft pebbled leather, and a structured design. Our model has flawless stitching with no fraying, the leather feels incredibly smooth, and the vertical design is flat and free of sag.
Since we first recommended the Perry, its design has been slightly tweaked; we haven’t tested the new model yet, but the small changes seem to make the new bag more practical than its predecessor. It’s now an inch larger than its predecessor and includes three small internal patch pockets.
The Perry bag has a dedicated laptop compartment in the center, dividing the bag into two sections. We really like the dividers, which are hard to find on expensive leather bags.
The laptop compartment is zipped and large enough to hold a 13-inch laptop and one or two thin documents. Perry also designed a compartment at the bottom of the bag, so even if you accidentally drop the bag, your laptop won’t be damaged.
The Perry’s carrying experience is simply perfect. The original model weighed 1.8 pounds, half the weight of many competitors we’ve previously overlooked, and according to the manufacturer’s specs, the new model weighs almost the same. But what really surprised us was that despite the Perry’s somewhat thin straps, it was comfortable enough to carry even fully loaded with gear during a full day of commuting.
Some of the most expensive laptop bags we’ve tested, including the Lo & Sons Seville Tote, which costs more than $500 in a competitive category, aren’t waterproof. So we were pleasantly surprised to find that the Tory Burch Perry Tote is actually waterproof. In our testing, the polished seams were very strong, didn’t warp under heavy pressure, and didn’t leak drinks.
Cons, but not deal-breakers: Like most convertible bags we tested, the Perry isn’t very protective. The only zipper is in the laptop compartment, so it doesn’t provide much protection for other items.
In addition, the laptop compartment does not have a soft lining. But since it is located above the bottom of the bag and the sides are not visible, we do not have to worry about the computer or tablet being damaged inside.
Dimensions: 14 x 5 x 11.6 inches; Handle Length: 10 inches; Weight: 1.8 pounds (previous version; current version is the same, as per manufacturer’s specifications) Warranty: 30-day return policy; Colors: Black, Shell, New Ivory, Light Brown, New Cream, Brick Red, Feather Gray, Burgundy, Natural, Mint Green, Beige
This handcrafted Italian leather bag has a distinctive look and feel, is roomy, and has a secure top zip. It’s our most expensive recommendation, but comes with a lifetime warranty.
Who should buy it: Those looking for a timeless leather bag that only gets better with age, and who are willing to pay a premium for it.
Why we recommend it: The Carl Friedrik Ashby Leather Tote is a statement bag. This beautiful leather bag is handcrafted in Italy, and while it’s the most expensive of all the bags we reviewed, it’s definitely worth the money. For around $650, you can own a bag with impeccable quality, beautiful lines, and a lifetime warranty.
Carl Friedrik is a brand known for its elegance, and the Ashby bag is one of them. With clean lines and refined details, this tote bag embodies classic elegance. The longer you own your Ashby, the more it reveals its charm: it is made of natural vegetable-tanned Vachetta leather, which patinas over time and becomes even shinier with use. The surface is polished, giving it a slight shine and effectively resisting water stains and abrasion.
The zipper teeth are polished for a smooth glide, the stitching is near perfect, and it’s very secure. The Ashby bag stayed upright without wobbling—we pushed it from side to side and it wobbled a little, but it never fell over.
The Ashby bag is roomy yet comfortable to carry, making it suitable for a variety of occasions. The straps sit comfortably on your shoulders. The spacious main compartment easily accommodates essentials for travel, such as a dedicated pocket for a 13-inch laptop. It is worth noting that the main compartment of this bag can easily accommodate a 15-inch laptop. In addition, the bag has a large zippered pocket and three patch pockets for storing small items such as wallets, pens, and charging cables.
Finally, in our testing, we found that only four companies offer a true lifetime warranty, while Herschel, Targus, and a few other brands offer a limited lifetime warranty that only covers manufacturing defects, not defects caused by long-term wear. We’d certainly try to get a package that costs as much as a car loan.
Cons, but not cons: This is an expensive bag, but its price is offset by excellent quality and a lifetime warranty that covers wear and tear and manufacturing defects.
The straps on the Ashby are some of the thinnest we’ve seen, comparable to those on our recommended Tory Burch Perry Three-Piece Bag. We found the straps on the Ashby to be comfortable to use even when fully loaded. But if you’re carrying very heavy items, you’ll want to be aware of this.
The base of this bag does not have riveted feet like the EaseGave Laptop Bags and Lo & Sons The OG 2 Bags, which protects the base from wear and tear.
Dimensions: 18 x 11.5 x 5 inches; Handle Length: 9 inches; Weight: 2.5 pounds; Warranty: Lifetime warranty; Colors: Brandy, Black
This simple bag has longer than usual straps for easy carrying and can easily accommodate even a large laptop. However, it does not have a dedicated laptop compartment, so your electronics may end up scattered all over the place and not properly protected.
Who it’s for: People who don’t care too much about bells and whistles and just want a stylish bag that’s big enough for a laptop and everyday essentials.
Pros: The Matt & Nat Abbi Tote is a roomy, simple, and practical business bag with a convenient zip closure and long handles. The bag is made from soft vegan leather (made from recycled windshield resin) and is the perfect thickness to keep the contents of the bag from expanding and becoming uncomfortable.