“Mac Monday”: Speck PortPack

Rating: 8 out of 10
Pros: Unique vertical design, innovative hidden handle, very soft laptop pocket, cool mp3 player pocket with headphone pass through. Nice touch with a water bottle pocket that can be hidden with a simple zip.
Cons: Not a ton of capacity, would have liked to see another color or two.
Verdict: Speck has put out another quality product for it’s fans.  The PortPack is a different approach to the typical laptop bag.  The vertical style lends itself to being a bit more feminine but not overly so that a male feels funny using it.  This is a truly unisex bag.  The handles that hides in the back pocket is my favorite unique innovation on this bag.  As a test I had both myself and my wife use this bag for a few days and we both agree it’s a winner.

The PortPack can be purchased from Speck for $79.99 and comes in either “Coffeehouse Brown Plaid” or “Speakeasy Black Pinstripe”

Mac Monday Review: HigherGround Laptrap bag

Rating: 8 out of 10
Pros: This bag doubles as a desk on your lap
Cons: Not a whole lot of storage space
Verdict: This bag seems like it’s geared more towards the student rather than the mobile office worker. It has some nice features and is made of really durable material, so it should last you a very long time.

This product can be purchased directly from HigherGround for $60

“Mac Monday”: Soyuz by Chrome Bags

Rating: 8 out of 10
Pros: Ultra cool styling, weather proof, extremely durable, plenty of room: in fact I was able to fit 2 laptops in the vertical laptop compartment. Versatile: I can see this being a great bag for family outings lugging all the kids stuff around.
Cons: It would have been cool if there was a way to integrate an optional shoulder strap. Two color options: black and black with a red accent.
Verdict: Now $180 for a normal bag would seem a bit expensive but when you take into account the vast weatherproof cavity, spacious laptop compartment and versatility of this bag, it’s quite a bargain.   The ability to cross over from urban professional during the week with paperwork and laptop in tow to casual suburban family with the kids in tow is invaluable.

You can purchase the the Soyuz and other great Chrome Bags directly from their website or visit them at the store located at 580 4th Street, San Francisco, CA.

“Mac Monday Review”: Switch MB by Brenthaven

Rating: 10 out of 10
Pros: Extraordinary quality and workmanship, switchable flaps, more pockets than you know what to do with, nicely padded laptop compartment, stylish is an understatement.
Cons: If you use a horizontal sleeve for your laptop you will probably want to find a vertical one. So many cool colors and styles it will be hard to pick just two.
Verdict: The Switch MB by Brenthaven is a high quality bag at a reasonable price starting at $129.95.  It’s refreshing to see a manufacturer take into account the fact that tastes and styles change over the life of a bag.  The reversible flap lends itself to versatility and the fact that you can purchase additional flaps for $29.95 shows just how economically friendly Brenthaven is in regards to value and customer satisfaction. So much so I am giving the Switch MB by Brenthaven the Editors’ Choice Award.

The Switch MB can be purchased on the Brenthaven website starting at $129.95