Alienware Orion Messenger vs Backpack (Or another bag to fit everything)

RapidBuyr.com has the m17x Orion Messenger Bag for $63 shipped. I used a messenger bag with my last laptop and I didn't enjoy it much. It fit all my stuff fine, but it was just not that comfortable to carry. It may have just been that bag though. I would rather have a backpack, but if the Messenger (or another one that can fit all my stuff) works, I'd be fine getting it, especially for this deal.

Here is what I need to fit in the bag:

• My m17x r3, the powerbrick, and a mouse.
• Xbox 360 Slim (The newest one) with its powerbrick (which is literally the size of a brick), a controller or two, and some games (but for the Orion, I could just put the games in the CD slots).
• Various other small items (ear buds, chargers, etc.)

Basically, I'm wondering which would be better between the messenger bag or the backpack OR if a completely different bag would be better.
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks!

 

Check out M.A.S.K. Laptop Backpack or some of the other bags offered by SLAPPA as well as Laptop Backpacks by booq.

 

While I'd love a Slappa MASK or an Everki Titan (Both would fit what I need), I just can't justify spending over $100 when I travel maybe once a year. Most of the time I'm just transporting stuff to friend's houses.

 

I've had this bag for two years and it still looks brand new. I travel with it back and forth to work 4 times a week.

Amazon.com: SWISSGEAR IBEX PUTER BACKPACK: Computers & Accessories

Here is what I carry 4 days a week.

17" MSI GT780
Thermaltake Laptop Cooler
Dlink DIR-655 Router
Mousepad
Logitech Head-Set
Mouse
Phone Charger
Multiple Cables
Change of cloths


This bag has 2 large pockets, one medium and one small. It also has multiple other small pockets on the sides and top. 7 total zippered pockets.

 

How comfortable is it? Are the shoulder straps well padded?

 

It is very comfortable with parachute type pull cords for loosening and tightening. I actually purchased a OGIO backpack prior to this one that I didn't find comfortable at all due to minute padding in the straps. This one has very nice padding. RI would say there is about 20 pounds in my backpack and the padding is dense enough to cushion it.

By the way, $63 is a steal for this back pack. It was still $100 up until 2 months ago. I believe it is still $100 some places.

 

Everki Beacon, matches all of your criteria exactly.

Amazon.com: Everki Beacon Laptop Backpack with Gaming Console Sleeve, Fits up to 18-Inch (EKP117NBKCT): Electronics

 

I'd choose a backpack over any messenger bag. With a backpack, the weight is equally distributed to your shoulders and this way you'll have less chances of ending up with back pains over time.

 

No it doesn't.... it isn't nearly big enough to fit all my stuff. I don't want to carry a backpack and a sleeve separately...

Yeah that makes sense. Would the Orion backpack fit all my stuff?


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I was able to carry two M17x with their power bricks in it plus a bunch of files. The M18x orion is huge
So, yes it will fit your stuff.

 

The sleeve goes in the backpack. It's removable and goes in the front pouch.

See here:

 

m17x r2's or r3's? And should I get the m18x backpack then?

And I'm pretty sure it fits the sleeve OR a laptop, not both. If you put the sleeve in, there won't be room for a laptop, especially not one as big as mine.

 

My M17x R2 and my previous M17x (same size/chassis).
They are a tad bigger and heavier than the M17x R3 having an aluminium chassis and all.

I have no personal experience with the Everki Beacon, it does look like a nice backpack though. If i saw it before i bought the Orion i might have bought it instead.

 

It fits both

a)
- Dedicated ultra-soft padded laptop compartment accommodates up to 18" laptops
- Gaming console sleeve included (suitable for Xbox 360, PS3, Wii, etc)

b) Look at pictures. The front opens up for the sleeve and the next compartment up opens to fit a laptop (the one that's against your back when carrying it).




See it now?
#2 is the sleeve compartment. Up by #3 is where the laptop goes.


http://www.amazon.com/review/RYZRPOMM9IASP/ref=cm_srch_res_rtr_alt_2
http://www.amazon.com/review/R103UNINHWPFJ/ref=cm_srch_res_rtr_alt_1

 

I thought I asked the Everki people about it and they said no....
It sure looks like it'll fit both though...A bunch of people said it barely fits the m17x r3. I'd like to see some pictures of how tight the squeeze is because I don't really want a bag that I have to force my laptop into...

 

Which one can you fit both in? m17x bag or m18x bag?

 

I only have the M18x Orion and i was referring to it

 

Ahh I see. I watched the video of the everki beacon on Amazon and it looks epic! So now I need to decide between the Orion and beacon...unless something more epic is brought to my attention

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I've just purchased an Everki Titan after having owned the M18x Orion and I can say that even though Everki is expensive, you do seem to get what you pay for. I also own a couple of smaller Targus backpack and I can say that the Everki stands heads and shoulders above the rest as far as build quality, storage and adaptability are concerned.

 

Do you like the Titan better than the m18x Orion? I want a Titan so badly, but they're just so expensive!