While it's convenient to have a notebook case, bag, or backpack big
enough to pack lots of your stuff in, a commodious bag can get heavy
and tedious to lug around and into meeting rooms and offices. Sometimes
what you really need is lightweight protection for the computer itself.
After all, a good notebook is a self-contained computing platform (at
least as long as the battery holds out). Semi-rigid slipcases provide
more protection than a soft fabric sleeve case, but without the bulk
and weight of a full-sized computer briefcase or backpack.
The
focus of this pair of reviews (the other looks at the RadTech Tekstyl Omni Case) is two variations on
that theme, sharing some similarities, but definitely different
interpretations of what the ideal for lightweight and compact notebook
carrier should be.
iSkin's SOHO laptop sleeve
case is a lightweight, multilayered solution for carrying your
'Book to meetings, cafés, classes, or while commuting between
home and office, offering more protection to absorb the hits and dings
that could damage your laptop than a soft sleeve case would - but
without the bulk and weight of a computer briefcase or backpack.
Made
for the MacBook and MacBook Pro, the SOHO also fits PC notebook's with
similar dimensions.
The SOHO laptop sleeve case is a pure, minimalist slipcase ideal for
students, business users, or anyone who carries their laptop a lot, and
it also also makes a great heat insulator when using your MacBook on
your lap. The SOHO may also be used for extra protection when carrying
your 'Book inside a larger laptop bag or backpack.
The
iSkin SOHO's outer skin is of "premium synthetic leather" in black with
contrasting color stitching and a matching color zipper-closure strip
on three sides (wrapping around the case's back/bottom corners) for a
very clean, stylish, and contemporary look.
The outer skin material is soft, leather-textured, and lightly
padded with a pleasant tactile feel, which is especially appreciated
since the SOHO is meant to be carried in your hand or under your arm
portfolio-style; there is no carry-handle or shoulder strap, nor is
there provision for either.
Inside you'll find more tactile sumptuousness. The SOHO's
semi-rigid protective armoring is lined with soft padded plush fabric
that looks great and is a pleasure to touch and gentle on your 'Book's
finish. The fabric is dyed using only environmentally safe inks.
The iSkin SOHO is available in your choice of five striking color
combinations: azure (black with blue), graphite (black with grey),
magnum (black with red), Sahara (black with orange), and Amazon (black
with pink), respectively matching the closure zipper and external
stitching. The review unit was a Sahara, and while I'm not usually a
big fan of things orange, this particular shade is very attractive.
"People need sturdy, functional protection for their computers, but
don't want to carry around something that conflicts with their personal
style," comments Tomas Rojcik of iSkin. "SOHO is sophisticated enough
for the professional, yet stylish enough for the student - and it
proves computer protection can be as great looking as it is
practical."
He's
right. The SOHO is designed with attention to small but appreciated
detail, like the positive grip zipper-pull with it's iSkin logo.
The SOHO is designed to allow you to use the computer without
removing it from the case, which can be very convenient if you just
want to grab a few minutes work on a train or bus, or in any waiting
room, etc., but may need to pack up and be mobile again on short
notice. The top panel of the SOHO is equipped with two diagonal
elasticized retainers that slip up over the notebook's display lid to
help hold the machine in securely place. Using the SOHO in situ
also provides insulation for your lap from the hot underside of the
"laptop."
While
the SOHO model we tested is designed specifically to accommodate the
Apple MacBook, I found that my 12" iBook also fit nicely, and I expect
that a 12" PowerBook would as well. There is also a model sized to fit
the 15" MacBook Pro and PowerBook.
The SOHO case looks great and feels
good too, with its practical downside being its minimalism and strict
adherence to the portfolio metaphor. There is no room or provision for
carrying incidentals, not even a small pocket.
The SOHO case is well-made from what looks and feels like quality
materials, and quite attractive, so pretty much the only thing to
complain about is the price, which is a bit on the steep side for a
simple sleeve case, however stylish and well-executed. The SOHO is
aimed at the premium end of the market.
iSkin
SOHO Features:
- Specifically made for Apple MacBook/MacBook Pro
- Slim two-tone design
- Colored stitching
- Simulated premium leather finish
- Reinforced, durable, outer shell
- Color-matching, plush padded lining
- Sure-grip custom iSkin designed zipper pull
- Clamshell design for easy access to laptop
- Inner elastic screen straps
- Multilayered construction
- Stylish yet elegant
- Reinforced spine
- Available in a variety of color styles
Specifications:
- For MacBook or similar PC
- Length: 13" (33cm)
- Width: 9" (23cm)
- Depth: 1" (4cm)
- $49.99
- For MacBook Pro or similar PC
- Length: 14" (36cm)
- Width: 9" (25cm)
- Depth: 1" (4cm)
- $54.99
Conclusion
So which of these slipcases is the best choice for you? As usual, it
depends. I like the upscale look of the SOHO, and I love that bright,
plush lining and the contrasting color stitching on the outside. it is
arguably the one to go with if you will be carrying it in business or
other environments where professional style is an important priority.
Not that the Omni isn't stylish, but it has a more sporty, utilitarian
flavor.
On the other hand, I have to give the Omni the edge for practical
functionality, with its clever "laptop stand" conversion feature, more
secure attachment of the case to the computer, its multiple carry mode
options, and the provision of at least that outside pocket for carrying
a few incidentals.
The Omni also has to get the nod for a higher degree of protection
for the computer, thanks to its heavier armoring, and the fact that it
sells for $13 to $15 less than the SOHO doesn't hurt either, although
the prices are close enough that they won't likely be the deciding
factor for most buyers.
Ultimately, it boils down to which one suits your needs and tastes
the best. They're both thoughtfully designed, attractive, and well-made
products, and I'm rating them both 3.5 out of 4.
