Looking for strong yet subtle laptop portability? Brenthaven is on the Case! Lean-n-Mean 2 W/O
Written: Dec 16 '03
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Nearly invincible, umpteen pockets and storage-crannies, comfortable handle and shoulder-strap, subtle looks help prevent theft.
Cons: Expensive (but worth it), looks rather plain if you're looking for a snazzy case.
The Bottom Line: If you have a cheaper laptop a Brentwood case might be overkill, but for todays high end ($$$) super-portables the protection and security is worth the extra cost.
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| openroad's Full Review: Apple Brenthaven Professional Shoulder Case for Ap... |
----- Introduction -----
Laptops can be very useful for computer users looking for portability, but they bring their own set of problems. The biggest problem is transporting your laptop without damaging it, and still having it easily accessible. The second biggest worry is that your laptop will be stolen either from your person or while in your car. The last laptop I had wasn’t a worry in either of these categories, but my new 17” Apple Powerbook sent me searching for a suitable case.
Brenthaven has been in business since 1980, and originally built wilderness packs designed to withstand the extreme conditions of the outdoors. In the modern business world, Brenthaven is now recognized as a leader in top-quality rugged and reliable transportation solutions for mobile electronics. Their line of laptop cases encompasses not only Apple’s Powerbook series, but any PC compatible as well. Their laptop cases include a detachable sleeve that securely grips your computer, and provides an extra layer of shock protection. Carrying handles are covered in synthetic leather for a cushioned, non slip grip. Shoulder straps are covered with foam for comfort then layered underneath with Toughtek, a unique non-slip material the keeps the shoulder strap from riding up or sliding off. All of Brenhaven’s laptop cases are constructed of virtually indestructible ballistic material, which has the highest tear resistance of any fabric available. All zippers are oversized with enamel sliders and self repairing in the event of a jam.
----- My Comments -----
My Brenthaven case has been awesome, and for a $3,300 laptop, I was willing to pay quite a bit ($170) to keep it safe and secure. The internal laptop sleeve is a great idea, and really helps absorb shocks while in transport. After nine months of ownership, the sleeve still grips my Powerbook just as if it were new. The handles and zippers show no signs of wear, and the case still looks great since spills wipe off easily if you catch them quickly.
Got storage?
Storage pockets are EVERYWHERE, and if you can fill these up I’m very impressed. In front of the case is a large stretchy pocket with a Velcro closer. I use this for my leather gloves, keys, or perhaps a hat in the winter. Inside the case are two hard plastic file dividers with an elastic stretchy material. These are designed to separate 8.5x11 papers, and work very well. Behind those is the “Wall of Storage”, at least that’s I call it. Pen slots, spaces for notepads, cellphones, PDAs, scotch tape, and much more. My case has 7 pockets and 4 pen slots, only half of which I even use.
Comfort:
The handle is super soft and very grippy as advertised. Ditto for the 3” wide shoulder strap, although the case and computer do begin to feel heavy after about 20 minutes. The case weighs in at 4.2lbs, but when you get my 7lb laptop and all the accessories I stuff in there it’s closer to 20lbs. I still haven’t used a more comfortable shoulder strap anywhere, including my friend’s 2 year old 15” laptop case, my Sony Handycam case, and a soft-side Sony Playstation 2 case.
----- Bottom Line -----
I haven’t regretted spending $170 on this case, and I’d do again in a flash. The biggest advantage to this case is it doesn’t look like a laptop case. It looks more like a cheap attaché case or a simple shoulder valise. I guess this could be a big negative for those people who like to look “expensive” and important, but for someone who wants to keep their laptop safe it’s very welcome. Brenthaven offers a lifetime warranty to back up their cases. For high end laptops the Brentwood cases are an owners first defense against damage, and I highly recommend them.
Thank you,
Openroad
This review is part of the Lean-n-Mean 2 W/O
http://www.epinions.com/content_3600982148#ow
Recommended:
Yes
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