Alienware Orion M14x Messenger or Backpack?

So here I am coming to you all at the forums to help me come to decision. I recently returned the Sager I had purchased and changed my laptop to the Alienware M14x. I had previously purchased the Alienware Orion M17x Messenger Bag for the previous laptop. I don't like how the M14x has enough room to move around in the laptop compartment so I'm looking into the M14x versions.

I'll be using the bag to take my laptop to college as well as anywhere else I decide to bring it along. I need it to fit my college books. A couple at least would be nice but I can figure it out as long as it has a bit of room. It will also need to be able to hold the power adapter and cords, my Logitech G700 mouse, my SteelSeries 7H Headset (Headset/USB Soundcard/Changeable Ear Cups) and a SteelSeries QCK Mouse Pad. It may also be required to store an external HDD at times and possibly a game pad.

I don't want the bag to give off an overwhelming impression that I'm a student as it's not just for school. I'm 22 and it's not something I really want to be looked at as everywhere I go as I haven't been in school for 6-7 years. I also don't want the bag to be too big or else it will look awkward with me carrying it. I'm 5'8 with broad shoulders and a wider build if that helps.

So my question is should I get the Orion Messenger or the Backpack?
Alienware Orion M14x Messenger Bag
Alienware Orion M14x Backpack

Other suggestions are welcome. Please include a link and reason why it would be good. Please nothing that's too roomy for the laptop itself.

 

I have both a messenger bag and a backpack, but the messenger bag kills my shoulder. I always end up using the backpack these days. Given the weight of the things that you want to carry, I feel that the backpack would be more comfortable, and, in the long run, better for your spine!

 

Does the messenger bag really bother that much? I remember years ago trying a messenger bag for school and I don't remember particularly liking it much. I'm really considering the backpack because I'm almost certain it'd be more comfortable for me. If a messenger is that much of a problem I probably won't bother...I have slight back problems already as it is.

 

A messenger bag really is not that great of an idea IMO. Since it has only one strap, it will place pressure on one shoulder a lot, and you can (if you stuff your bag really full) develop shoulder pain. It would probably affect your shoulder first, then move on to your back if you tried to ignore that, so I would not advise a messenger bag. If you don't want a bag that makes you out to be a student or hardcore gamer, then try something a little more discrete, like a mobilegear securepack, or slappa backpack.

 

On my phone so hopefully this msg works out. Being as that I already have some back pain I've decided to rule out messenger bags. While I appreciate the suggestions I not a fan of the Securepack design. As for Slappa bags I was looking at them earlier and m GD thinks the designs are stupid and immature. Therefore I can't get one or I will be reminded daily how stupid she thinks it is. I ended up purchasing the Alienware backpack today. Hopefully it will be everything I need. Thanks guys.

 

I think you'll be happy with the decision. Let us know what you think about the backpack.

 

Will do! I'm actually a little worried about getting it since up in Canada the postal service is set to strike this Thursday if their demands are not met. My bag says expected delivery on Friday. Can only hope for the best.

 

Man, what a time for a strike! Let's hope your bag arrives on time. Good luck.

 

Ok ended up getting the backpack a day early so no more worries.

The bag looks a little small but lets you pack in quite a bit for the size. The quality of the material feels nice and strong like it won't rip except for a couple parts inside the bag. (eg. The flash drive pockets) The bag felt a little off at first when I put it on. Once I put the laptop in and added some weight it was rather comfortable to wear. The laptop fits in the laptop compartment perfectly and there is a piece attached with velcro inside the compartment that sits on an angle. I'm assuming it's to conform to the angled sides of the laptop. I was able to stow all my items inside the bag and still have room for at least a couple college books and some odds and ends. There's two rubber gripped feet on the bottom that provide amazing stability as the bag can stand upright on it's own easily. One thing I really like is that it doesn't crumple into itself when empty. This keeps the overall appearance that much nicer. Overall I'm glad I didn't get the messenger bag as I see how the weight could cause pain after some use.

I'll give a quick run down of all the pockets in the backpack:

Front: 2 pockets (1 on each side behind the semi-rigid padding)

First Compartment: 2 pouches for accessories, 1 long mesh pocket, 3 pencil pockets with small pocket behind, ID slot mounted on small pocket, 2 flash drive pockets, 2 SD card pockets with small pocket behind, MP3 pocket, key clip

Second Compartment: Large compartment with 3 low dividers, large mesh pocket

Laptop Compartment: Checkpoint friendly laptop pocket, large pocket

Left Side: Pullout water bottle pocket

Back: Removable cellphone pouch

Took some pictures for anyone who's interested.

 

Somehow it double posted.