Top picks for MacBook bags, cases, and sleeves in 2023.
Macworld
A high-quality MacBook bag should possess similar characteristics to Apple’s laptops. It should be durable, requiring good materials for its construction. Convenience is also key, as the bag should have ample pockets and compartments to accommodate various tasks. Due to the decreased number of ports on the MacBook, bags often have an advantage. Additionally, since we value good design, an aesthetically pleasing bag is certainly welcomed.
No matter which MacBook you own, whether it’s an Air or Pro, you most likely invested a significant amount in it and wouldn’t want to take the chance of it getting damaged. You probably wouldn’t mind spending a little extra to ensure its safety.
Many companies offer a wide range of protective products for MacBooks, including laptop bags, backpacks, sleeves, covers, and cases that attach directly. These products often strive to be as fashionable as the MacBook they are safeguarding.
We’ve rounded up a selection of our favorite cases, sleeves, backpacks and bags for the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro, whether you have a 13-, 14- or 16-inch model, to keep your Mac safe.
All the bags listed below meet the given requirements, however, we have been selective in choosing bags that cater to specific needs. Please note that not all bags will be suitable for every model of MacBook. If a bag is unable to accommodate the 16-inch MacBook Pro, we have made a mention of it.
This MacBook sleeve from Case Logic features a vibrant and minimalist design.
Pros
- Tight fit
- Padded
- Colors
Cons
- Lack of pockets
Fits: 13-inch
Case Logic offers a wide range of laptop sleeves that cater to different sizes of the MacBook and are available in a variety of colors. Specifically designed for the 13.3in MacBook models, such as the M1 MacBook Air or M2 MacBook Pro, is the Case Logic Laptop Sleeve.
This case is designed to fit snugly around the MacBook, preventing it from sliding around. It also has added padding for enhanced protection. Woven webbing lines the sides to provide additional safeguarding and reinforce the case. With its slim design, it can easily fit into your bag.
Offered in an array of bold hues such as Pink, Dark Blue, Lime Green, and Teal.
The STM Myth Laptop Brief is the ultimate shoulder bag for MacBook users.
Pros
- Slim 7L storage bag with pockets
- Handle and detachable shoulder strap
The price of $79.95 can be found at Amazon, Lenovo, and STM.
Suitable for devices with a maximum size of 14 inches.
The Myth laptop bag from STM can accommodate 14-inch MacBooks, even though it is officially recommended for 13-inch laptops. It is available in Black, Granite Black, and Slate Blue versions.
The compact shoulder bag shields your laptop by elevating it, preventing contact with the bag’s bottom. It is also cushioned with foam. The shoulder strap can be easily adjusted and features a non-slip pad for added comfort. It also includes a discreet luggage trolley sleeve, allowing it to be attached to a suitcase’s telescopic handle for convenient use when not carried on your back. This is especially useful for navigating busy travel hubs and crowded public transportation.
The item is expertly crafted and features sturdy handles made of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) with rivets, along with reverse coil zippers. The fabric is also treated with a water-repellent C6DWR coating.
There are multiple compartments and pockets (we identified 10, but there may be more hidden) to assist with keeping things organized. The bag also has cable-routing, allowing you to charge your laptop or other devices without removing them from the bag.
The Troubadour Apex 3.0 Backpack is the ultimate choice for a high-quality backpack designed specifically for MacBooks.
Pros
- Super stylish
- Plenty of storage
- Smart organizer sections
- Hidden iPhone pocket
- AirTag pocket
Cons
- Premium price
Suitable for laptops up to 17 inches in size.
Apple designs their MacBooks with top-of-the-line specifications and a luxurious design. If you plan on carrying yours in a backpack, it would be wise to invest in a high-quality one as well. Similar to Apple’s products, the Troubadour Apex 3.0 also comes with a premium price.
This product offers great value with its fashionable design and ample storage options. It includes a hidden pocket for your iPhone within the straps, making it easily accessible without having to take off the bag. There is also a designated pocket for an Apple AirTag.
The laptop area is located towards the rear and easily reachable, providing ample room for a 16-inch MacBook Pro. In total, there are 14 compartments, including slots for pens and zippered closures. Additionally, it has a trolley sleeve on its back to secure it to a suitcase handle, and a sturdy top handle for times when you need a break from carrying it on your shoulders or navigating through crowded areas.
It is both lightweight and comfortable, yet spacious with a capacity of 25L.
Comes in Black, Navy, Air Force Blue, and Obsidian Green options.
The Harber Nomad Organiser is the top choice for a premium organiser designed specifically for MacBook users.
Pros
-
Organizational pockets for technology.
-
High-end, opulent appearance of leather material.
-
This item is designed to accommodate both a MacBook and an iPad.
- Handle and detachable shoulder strap
Cons
-
Gains weight rapidly when overfilled.
- Expensive
Fits: 13-inch, 14-inch
Although a laptop may appear to be a self-contained device with all components, such as a keyboard, screen, trackpad, and hard drive, neatly packaged together, it is not as simple as it seems.
To begin, you will require a charger and charging cord. When you are mobile, you will also need to bring your AirPods and possibly a traditional mouse instead of relying on the trackpad of your MacBook. Additionally, if you have an iPad for work, a basic sleeve will not suffice. However, the Nomad Organiser, created by high-end bag company Harber London, is capable of handling all of these items.
The Nomad features ten pockets, including a padded one for your MacBook Pro and another padded pocket that can accommodate an iPad ranging from 9.7 to 12.9 inches. This pocket is spacious enough to fit the tablet even with a Smart Cover. However, if you are also trying to fit chargers and other tech items along with your laptop and tablet, closing the sleeve may be a bit of a challenge.
The smaller pocket is spacious and can fit your MacBook charger, but when closed, it may create a slight bulge in the fabric. Personally, I prefer to store my larger items in a bag with a wider opening – take a look at our recommended tech organizer bags – and use this sleeve for smaller, slimmer items.
There are two pockets with zippers for secure storage, such as cash or memory cards, and a convenient key fob strap. Additionally, there are slots for holding pens or an Apple Pencil.
There is also a designated pocket for a phone, but I am hesitant to keep all of my devices in one location. Many of us prefer to have our phones easily accessible in a pocket or bag that is easy to reach into. If you choose to use the phone pocket, it can accommodate a Pro Max iPhone.
Underneath the pocket, there are spaces for credit or travel cards. Above, there are five straps that can secure an AirPods case, cables, and even an AirTag. Considering the price, it is wise to always keep track of this sleeve. Personally, I would have preferred elastic straps for a more secure hold, but I can understand the appeal of the all-leather design.
The Nomad Organiser can be carried in multiple ways, either under your arm using the discreet built-in handle or with a matching strap as a messenger bag.
This MacBook sleeve is made with high-quality Spanish leather and exudes a sense of luxury. It comes in four different colors: Tan, Dark Brown, Black, and Navy.
The Mujjo Envoy Laptop Sleeve is an intelligent sleeve with built-in storage.
Pros
-
High-quality appearance and texture
- Accessory pockets
- In-sleeve charging
Cons
- No sealed pockets
Fits: 14-inch, 16-inch
The Envoy Laptop Sleeve from Dutch design company Mujjo is crafted from high-quality, waterproof vegan leather and provides convenient storage for not only your MacBook, but also your preferred accessories. It features compact exterior pockets to hold your charger, cables, phone, and other necessary items.
The laptop is protected by a stylish sleeve with a magnetic closure, providing quick access and a secure seal. Conveniently, there is also a side opening for easy charging while in the sleeve.
There is a slip pocket at the back that provides convenient access for a notebook or passport. This sleeve can hold slim items, so be sure to keep an eye on it when at a café.
The Mujjo Envoy is offered in Black or Blue and is compatible with both the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro. It can also securely hold 13-inch and 15-inch MacBooks, albeit with a slightly loose fit.
The Woolnut Leather Sleeve for MacBook is a high-end leather case designed specifically for MacBooks.
Pros
-
Luxurious appearance
- In-sleeve charging
Cons
- Lack of pockets
- Expensive
This product is compatible with 12-inch, 13-inch, 14-inch, 15-inch, and 16-inch devices.
This Leather Sleeve by Woolnut comes in four fashionable colors (Black, Cognac, Green, and Gray) and is compatible with all recent MacBook models, including the 12-inch original, Air, and Pro. The sleeve is custom-made to fit each model perfectly.
This sleek case may not have pockets, but it exudes luxury and is sure to catch the eye of other MacBook users. The outer material is crafted from premium Scandinavian leather, while the inside is lined with soft, 100% natural wool felt from Germany.
The Speck SmartShell is a straightforward and vibrant protective cover.
Pros
- Protects in use
Cons
- More colors, please
The price on Amazon is $37.99, while it is $40.99 at Best Buy. Unfortunately, it is not currently available at Adorama.
Fits: 13-inch
To safeguard your laptop during use, you can attach a transparent or shaded case. The Speck SmartShell case is available in multiple sizes to fit various MacBooks.
The M2 MacBook Air offers a variety of color options, such as Cosy Pink, Obsidian, and Clear, to match your personal style. Additionally, there are distinct cases available for your selection.
The UAG Plyo Case is a durable laptop shell that provides extra protection.
Pros
- Super robust shell
Cons
-
Specific details about the specific model of MacBook
The price is $59.95 on Amazon and $79.95 at Best Buy.
Fits: 13-inch
Certain shell cases not only provide a pop of color for your MacBook, but also offer an additional level of security. Various manufacturers create hard shell cases specifically designed to protect your MacBook Pro or Air.
UAG (Urban Armor Gear) makes impact resistant armour for your MacBook. The Plyo series has extra strength built into the cushioning corners and cooling vents to ensure that there is adequate airflow (to stop your laptop from overheating).
Ensure that you purchase the appropriate shell for your specific model of MacBook.
The Case Logic Bryker Backpack Roller is a laptop bag that comes equipped with a telescope handle.
Pros
- Telescopic handle
- Wheels
- Versatile
Cons
-
This is not meant to replace a suitcase.
Accommodates devices with a maximum size of 15.6 inches and a 10-inch tablet.
If you would rather not constantly carry your laptop in a backpack, this solution is ideal. It includes a telescoping handle that can be folded into a zippered compartment, as well as cushioned storage for a laptop up to 15.6 inches and an iPad.
The bag also includes wheels that can be concealed when worn as a backpack, allowing you to easily pull it along like a suitcase.
The laptop’s storage section is removable.
The storage pocket at the bottom allows for storing larger items, while there is also a side pocket specifically designed for holding a water bottle.
The Timbuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack Deluxe is a padded bag designed to hold a laptop.
Pros
- Premium backpack
- Plenty of pockets
- Decent 28L capacity
Cons
- Premium price
Fits: 15-inch
If you plan to bring your Apple laptop with you when leaving your home or workplace, it is essential to have a durable bag to transport it. We suggest investing in a well-cushioned backpack specifically made for laptops.
A properly constructed backpack should have multiple compartments inside for storing items, such as a front pocket, a spacious main compartment, and a large side pocket. The backpack should also have quilted shoulder straps and a padded back for comfortable wearing. The Timbuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack Deluxe is a good choice, despite its high price.
Thule Gauntlet Attaché – Laptop briefcase
Pros
- In-use hard-shell case
- Detachable shoulder strap
Cons
- Black only
Fits: 13-inch
An excellent choice for a sturdy briefcase is the Thule Gauntlet attaché, which features a slim design and durable build. It offers reinforced corners and edges for added protection and comes with a single, detachable shoulder strap and handles. Plus, you can work without having to remove your Mac from the case.
The Twelve South SuitCase for MacBook is a unique combination of a hard shell and fabric carry-on, designed specifically for the MacBook.
Pros
-
Compact but frequently utilized protective cover
- Handle
Cons
- Lack of pockets
Compatible with 13-inch, 14-inch, and 16-inch devices.
Laptop backpack and bags can be bulky, expecting you constantly to be travelling to airports or on trains, when sometimes you just need the convenience of a slim briefcase with the protection of a hard shell. SuitCase from Twelve South is an odd name for what is effectively a briefcase with a recessed handle, but it’s a great hybrid of sleeve, shell and carry on.
There are three levels of security: a waterproof, padded gray fabric outer layer; under the twill material is a layer of sturdy plastic to shield your MacBook from damage; and the interior features a gentle layer of microfiber to safeguard the surface of your Mac.
You don’t need to take your MacBook out of the case to start working. Plus, the dual zippers keep it closed tightly, even when it’s charging.