A good MacBook bag shares many qualities with a MacBook. We want it to be sturdy, so it must be made of good materials. We want to use it for multiple tasks, so it should have plenty of pockets and pockets. (And let’s admit, with the dwindling number of ports on the MacBook, the bags often have the edge.) And since we all admire good design here, we certainly don’t mind if the bag looks great.
And whatever MacBook you have, Air or Pro, you’ve probably spent enough on it that you don’t want to risk breaking it – and don’t mind spending a little more to keep it safe.
There’s no shortage of companies making protective accessories for MacBooks, from laptop bags and backpacks to cases, covers, and snap-on covers, and many of them go out of their way to be as stylish as the Mac they’re protecting.
We’ve selected 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 of the bags below meet that criteria, but we’ve carefully chosen to choose bags that meet specific needs. Keep in mind that not every bag here will fit every MacBook, but if a bag can’t handle the 16-inch MacBook Pro, we’ve definitely made a note of it.
1. Case Logic Laptop Case
Case Logic makes a lot of laptop covers that are suitable for different sizes of MacBooks and that are available in all kinds of colors. The Case Logic Laptop Sleeve is suitable for a 13.3-inch MacBook, such as the M1 MacBook Air or M2 MacBook Pro.
It’s snug so the MacBook doesn’t slip inside, and it’s padded for extra protection. There is a woven band along the sides to further protect the laptop and reinforce the case. It is a thin case that should fit nicely in your bag.
2. Case Logic Bryker Backpack Roller
If you prefer not to carry your laptop in a bag on your back, this is a great solution with a telescoping handle that retracts into a zippered pocket and padded storage for a laptop up to 15.6 inches.
3. Speck SmartShell
If you want to protect your laptop while you use it, you can put a clear or tinted cover on it. The Speck SmartShell case is available in different sizes for different MacBooks. There are clear cases and options in a variety of colors, including snug pink, obsidian, and clear variety for the M2 MacBook Air, shown here, so you can pick one that suits your personality.
4. UAG Plyo Case
Some covers are built to do more than add a splash of color to your MacBook. A number of manufacturers build hard-shell cases that add an extra layer of protection to your MacBook Pro or Air.
UAG (Urban Armor Gear) makes impact resistant armor for your MacBook. The Plyo series has extra strength built into the cushioned corners and vents to ensure there’s plenty of airflow (to keep your laptop from overheating).
5. Thule Gauntlet Attaché
If you are looking for a briefcase-style bag with a sturdy construction, the Thule Gauntlet Attaché is a good option. It is a slim and robust housing with enhanced corner and edge protection. There is a single, detachable shoulder strap and handles. You don’t even have to take the Mac out of its case to work.
6. STM Judge Shoulder Bag
The Judge laptop bag from STM is suitable for MacBooks up to 16 inches. It comes in brown, blue, green or gray.
The bag is designed to protect your laptop by hanging it up so it doesn’t touch the bottom of the bag. It is also encased in foam. The shoulder strap is easy to adjust and has a cushion to make it more comfortable. Inside there are sections to help with organization and also includes a small bag that STM calls the Stash that looks a bit like a pencil case.
