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 iSkin SOHO Sleeve Portfolio) 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.
The Tekstyl Omni
SM Laptop is an internally armored work-in slip case from RadTech
that packs an awful lot of practical innovation into its slim and
compact dimensions, as well as a greater degree of protection than you
might be anticipate with a case of this type.
For example, even though the Omni is only two inches thick, it's
skinned with rugged 1680D ballistic waterproof Nylon, and its "Pro -
Frame" embedded rigid plastic impact-absorbing 1.6mm high-density
polyethylene armor plating parameter rib can withstand 100 pounds of
compression, protecting the laptop inside from crush damage.
Then there are its two handles - one on top where one would be
expected for briefcase-style carriage, and a second handstrap on the
bottom for an extra-secure grip when you're carrying the slip case
underarm. A detachable 2.5cm (1") wide minimalist shoulder strap also
lets you carry the Omni as a shoulder bag.
The computer is held in place inside the slip case by four
elasticized retention straps the stretch over the palm rest and upper
display corners, plus two tension straps with quick release
buckles.
The Omni's stay-on configuration makes it unnecessary to remove the
laptop from the case in order to use it with unrestricted port, slot,
and drive access. Just unzip the bottom panel and open the computer
with the elastic straps still in place - and it can be quickly put away
again. The sides of the case also serve as a bit of a screen hood if
you're working in a brightly lighted area.
The case is convertible, so if you do need to get the 'Book
out, just unzip the top-loading flap and pop the tension strap buckles
for quick and easy extraction.
If
you're working on a desk or table surface, the Omni case has a built-in
laptop stand feature in which the top-load flap has a Velcro-secured
fold out leg that can be deployed to create a triangular support which
raises the back of the computer about 1-1/2 inches off the support
surface. Just unzip the flap all the way, spin it under, and pop the
Velcro to allow the second support "leg" to flip out.
When using the laptop in the Omni case, the tension strap
buckles serve double duty as "feet" to lift the bottom of the laptop
clear of the bottom panel, allowing air convection for improved
cooling. You also have 360° access to the computer's ports at the
sides and front, and through the top load aperture at the back when it
is deployed as a stand support.
As for the construction and architecture of the case itself, as
noted above, the main panel surfaces inside and out feature embedded,
impact-absorbing 1.6mm high-density polyethylene armor plating
throughout, covered with tough (but soft) waterproof ballistic 1680D
nylon fabric, with the inner compartment padded with closed-cell foam
all round.
The handles and side panels are covered with a rubbery plastic
material that provides good grip traction. Quality YKK zippers are used
throughout. The adjustable 2.5cm wide shoulder strap is included and
has quick release clips for removal when it's not needed.
While there is no internal storage space for anything other than the
computer, the bottom panel has a full-width pocket with Velcro closures
that accommodates letter-size media up to 2 cm thick, while the outer
top panel has a side-loading document pocket.
The Omni case, which is designed in America but assembled in
China and is well-constructed, with neat stitching and no loose threads
or other quality issues noted in the test unit. The case comes with a
five-year warranty against defects in material and workmanship.
In general, this is a slick and attractive little laptop case with a
lot of functional versatility, tastefully simple in appearance, but
with an amazing number of cool and practical features. Being not much
larger than the computer it holds (main laptop dimensions of this SM
model - 11.75" x 9.5" x 1.5"), it can also be slipped easily inside a
larger backpack or briefcase for an extra level of protection.
I
really didn't find much of anything to criticize or complain about with
the Tekstyl Omni slip case. If you're looking for a lightweight,
compact case to protect your 'Book, give this one some
consideration.
TekStyl Omni Features:
- Omni is TSA Checkpoint Friendly
- Entire unit protected by shock absorbing plastic and closed-cell
foam armor
- Open sided design and rear flap provide full port, slot and drive
access
- Two surface-mounted handles and removable, minimalist shoulder
strap
- Dual elastic corner retention straps keep notebook firmly
located
- 1680D ballistic nylon exterior is waterproof and durable
- Ergonomic keyboarding riser stand deploys in seconds
- Top-grade YKK zippers used throughout
Omnis are available in two sizes and six colors, and will fit most
sub-17in. notebooks.
- Small - 12" 13" Standard - $42
- Large - 13" Widwscreen-15" - $45
Coiors
Navy
+Pink- Silver + Black
- Black + Gray
Omni Specs:
- Material: 1680D Waterproof Nylon
- Fits: Most 12 - 15in Notebooks
- Ext Dimensions:
- SM: 34 x 28.5 x 4.0cm
- LG: 38 x 31.0 x 4.0cm
- Int Dimensions:
- SM: 31.0 x 23.0cm
- LG: 35.0 x 25.0cm
- Weight:
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.
