Our laptops seem to be everywhere we go. Although we don’t complain about the ability to access information on our laptops, work from anywhereThis means we must be extra vigilant about protecting these precious and fragile computers. This is where a good laptop bag or laptop sleeve can be very useful, especially when traveling in a bag with no dedicated laptop compartment.
We tested many cases and sleeves to help you find the right one for your laptop. They come in different materials, styles and protection levels, so your laptop will be protected even if it is dropped. Our goal was to find cases that would allow us to easily slide our laptops in and out, with soft interiors and just enough padding for shock absorption without being bulky. Here are the top laptop cases that our editors tested, from hardshells to sleeves.
![Amazon [U] by UAG Mouve 13-inch Laptop/Tablet Sleeve](https://quantum.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/The-9-Best-Laptop-Cases-of-2025-Tested-and-Reviewed.jpg)
This protective sleeve by UAG is versatile and fits several different laptop sizes. T+L editor Taylor Fox It is large enough to accommodate a computer that is slightly larger than a 13-inch laptop. The case was large enough for her to travel with both an iPad and a laptop, but still have the extra pocket on the front. She could keep a slim wallet, stubby notebook or phone in it. This outer pocket can also be used to store a passport during air travel. We love how easily it’s accessible.
The polyester construction is structured and well padded. It closes with a strong magnetic closure (and optional pass through strap), which feels secure during extended travel. Since testing this laptop bag for over a month, we’ve not seen any signs of excessive wear and tear or compression in the padding. The only drawback is the limited number of color options. Some colors feel a little dull, and the lighter shades will likely get dirty very quickly.
Details: 14 x 9.6 x 1 inches (13-inch version), 17 x 10.4 x 1.3 inches (16-inch version) | Polyester
This stylish leather laptop case is available in 14-inch and 15/16 inch models. T+L associate director Morgan Ashley Parker Uses it for her 13″ laptop and it You can also read more about the benefits of using Fits her computer as well as a compact charger cord, if necessary. This is one the softest cases we have used. The full-grain leather, ample padding and microsuede finish look and feel top quality.
We feel comfortable placing our laptops inside this bag without needing any additional protection. For those who like their tech customized, you can choose from a variety of design and application options. You can even get up to fifteen letters. Parker chose a leather wallet to match the passport from Leatherology. The only caution we have is to those who are prone to throwing bottles into their bags. We are very careful when using this case, as it is of high quality. If you tend to get watermarks, we suggest choosing a more functional style.
Details: 13 x 9 x .8 inches | Leather
We love snap-on cases as well as external ones. Velvet Caviar’s affordable and fun cases are grabbing the attention of the internet right now. This hardshell is available in several sizes to fit MacBook Airs or Pros between 13 and 16 inches. It comes as a two part cover that snaps on top and bottom. The covers come with a keyboard cover made of silicone to protect your keys from dirt and dust.
This is what we use instead of a case for our laptop when it’s not necessary to protect it in a bag. We feel comfortable slipping the laptop into our bags without anything else. We have not noticed any cracks or dents in the polycarbonate, unlike some other hard cases. This particular model has been on our computer nearly two years, and we’re impressed with its durability and longevity.
Details: 13.89 x 9.8 x 1.02 inches | Polycarbonate
There are over 300 different designs available to suit both 13-inch and 16-16-inch laptops. T+L Senior Testing Editor Jackie Cucco We chose the larger size of our 13-inch laptop to have a little more space for cords and other small items. This allows for a charging cable, a notebook and a separate mouse.
This is a simple design—just a shockproof neoprene sleeve with a watertight zipper and no extra features. It’s fine with us, but we do love the thick, protective case when it comes to traveling, commuting or throwing into a bag. It has helped protect our computer from accidental spills and drops, even though it feels like a tight fit.
The Details 13 x 9 x 1 inches (small), 16 x 11.6 x 1.4 inches (large) | Neoprene | Water-resistant
Harber London’s range of sizes can fit almost any laptop. Associate editor at T+L says. Anna Popp Use hers for a 13-inch Macbook Pro. This case is very slim and only fits a laptop. If you are looking for an envelope-style case that is stylish and sleek, then this choice is perfect. This beautiful sleeve, which is comparable to the most expensive leather sleeves for laptops, has a soft outer with moderate shock absorption. It also features a wool felt inner that keeps laptops free of scratches.
The magnetic closure is extremely secure and won’t open unless you really try. The design and look of this laptop case is fantastic. We also appreciate that it comes in a range of sizes, so you can choose the right size to fit your notebook or tablet.
Details: Leather, Wool felt| Leather, wool felt
The case looks completely flat at first. There is no padding. It may have less impact resistance than other cases on the list, but it comes with a divider inside where you can store charging cables and wall chargers. The backside neoprene pouch has three additional inches of stretch and can accommodate a phone or notebook as well as writing utensils. The slot on the inside can be used for a license, credit card, or both.
The case comes in two sizes to fit either a 16-inch or 14-inch laptop. It’s a great option for those who need to pack all their essentials into a small travel bag that offers some protection. It can be used as a convenient laptop stand at either a 15- or 25 degree angle. Future models should be sized to fit a 13″ laptop. But this case is close to perfect.
Details: Vegan leather| Vegan leather
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The low-cost bag comes with many features, such as a zippered pouch, a handle for carrying, and an exterior that is water resistant.
The affordable case is designed to fit a laptop and has a front pouch where you can keep low-profile items such as papers and charging cords. T+L Senior Editor Jasmine Grant It was noted that the Apple charging block, in its entirety, made the case bulky. This sleeve is made of soft flannel, which has been found to be sufficient for protecting Grant’s computer from scratches.
Grant put this laptop in her work bag, which was full of heavy and clanky objects. She didn’t worry about the laptop being damaged. She was impressed by the exterior’s water-resistant protection and the overall quality and look of the bag for the price. The zipper is reliable and strong, and it has a unique carrying handle. It came with a snap on hard sleeve which was disappointing and ended up cracking within a couple of months.
Details: 13.6 x 9 x .8 inches. | Nylon, neoprene | Water-resistant
This laptop case is available in two sizes: 14-inch and 16. It can also fit larger computers, as well as a few other items. T+L associate director Morgan Ashley Parker The 14-inch version was tested with a 13-inch Macbook. She also managed to fit in a portable monitor and monitor cable as well as a computer cable and charger without feeling like everything was crammed.
Monos Metro comes with a trolley sleeve, which we use as a handle to transport the case. We haven’t seen any scratches or blemishes in the exterior faux-leather. This would be a great carry-on item, as the interior is smooth cotton twill. It is compatible with Monos luggage. We would like to see it in the 13-inch laptop format, but we appreciate the extra room.
Details: 13.4 × 10 × 1.1 inches (small), 15 × 10.8 × 1.1 inches (large) | Faux leather, cotton twill | Water-resistant
This laptop sleeve was the last accessory I added to my carry-on bag this year. I am glad I did. It was time to buy something to protect my laptop after spending too much time with it banging around inside unpadded sleeves or hydration pockets. I bought the 13-inch case, and it is just perfect. You can also click here to learn more about The zipper is so tight that it has to be stretched a little in order to fit around the corners of my 13″ MacBook Air. It’s a good thing, since there is less space for the computer to move around.
The exterior is made of a bluesign-approved 800denier polyester and DWR treated to resist water. The zippers have a sturdy construction and are not showing signs of wear despite heavy usage this season. It has one exterior pocket that I can fit a phone and a travel wallet in (and my passport if needed), but I have a hard time fitting cables and a wall port in here—so it’s not the best choice if you want your laptop case to fit all of your accessories. This is my top choice for a rugged, protective case. It comes in different sizes for Macs and PCs.
The Details Polyester, EVA, Water-resistant| Polyester, EVA | Water-resistant
Our Testing Process
T+L editors did not have to search far for the best laptop cases to recommend, since we (and many contributing writers) all use them every day. These laptop cases have been tested extensively and are ideal for travel, commuting and everyday work. The cases have been used on domestic and foreign trips for work and pleasure, as well as on long road trips. These cases are old and have hardly worn out.
Tips on Buying a Computer Case
Consider your travel needs
Consider what you’ll use the case for. You may need it to be a bike commuting bag, or extra storage if you want handles and straps. Consider what you will use the case for. You may need exterior pockets to store quick-grab items. If you are using it as a bag for bike commuters, you might need additional storage.
You can opt for a thin envelope style that fits into the pockets of totes or backpacks if your laptop case will be mainly used inside. If your briefcase has a padded sleeve for the laptop, you won’t need to protect it as much as someone whose bag does not offer much shock-protection.
Measure your laptop accordingly
There are a variety of sizes available for laptop cases. These sizes are designed to fit most standard laptops. To protect your computer, you should make sure that the laptop case or sleeves are the correct size. You can find the dimensions of your laptop by searching online for your specific model. However, you can do it yourself.
Close the laptop and measure the entire thing in length. Then, measure vertically. Modern laptop cases are often designed to fit slim Macbooks. However, if you own a regular laptop then measure the depth. Check your measurements against the specifications on the laptop case to ensure you get the right fit.
Never sacrifice protection for style
The best thing to do is find a durable case, preferably one with an internal cushioning like EVA or neoprene. Consider it an added bonus if it matches your style! Assess how you will be carrying your laptop. If you usually carry your laptop in a padded case inside your bag, this is a good place to start. laptop bagYou can go for aesthetics, as some protection is better that none. If you know your computer will be smashed in transit, you should consider a case that is more shockproof and durable. James Bond Character instead of someone else Devil Wears Prada.
FAQs
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What is the difference between a sleeve for a laptop and a case for a notebook?
Many people confuse the terms, but they refer to a larger, heavier laptop carrier. They can be made out of hardshell material, or include handles and pockets. Laptop sleeves are typically less padded and soft-sided and designed to fit your laptop with very little else. Aside from a small number of options, laptop sleeves don’t usually have carry handles. However, cases are more versatile and have many additional features.
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What is your best protection option when you travel with a laptop computer?
Hardshell cases that are shockproof, dropproof, and water resistant (or waterproof) are our top choice for maximum protection. They should be fitted snugly with no room for your laptop to move. We also prefer them to have shock-absorbing padding on the interior. This is not the best choice for air travel because it’s too bulky. Instead, you can use a padded neoprene carrying case that has a water-resistant outer shell.
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Can I bring my laptop without a case on an airplane?
You can take a laptop without a case on an airplane. We do this quite a bit. We found that it was better to protect the computer, even if this meant using a minimalist leather envelope case, when traveling.
Why Travel + Leisure?
Maggie Slepian She is a remote worker and an avid traveler who always brings her laptop with her, whether she’s on a roadtrip in the U.S., downtown at a coffee shop, or abroad for months. She’s also always testing a variety of travel bags—some that come equipped with reinforced laptop pockets and some that don’t. To compile the list, she used her own experience with laptop protective cases as well as feedback from T+L’s editorial team.
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