M17x Bags, Backpacks, Cases & Sleeves - Discuss Here

I want an alienware odyssey bag, if anyone has one, contact me. It wont let me make a new post on the WTB forum.

 

I think the orion backpack is a great bag and you can get it at amazon.com for $59.99 no tax and free shipping.

 

Are you referring to me ??

I actually have the Orion (Dell gave it to me for free). It's a good size actually. Doesn't really make me look like an astronaut, but I do look like I'm going camping. But it's a good thing that it's solid black. I have to say though, the padding in it is pretty mediocre for something that might cost ppl $70+. So if you take a look at my post a few pages back, you'll notice the extra foam padding that I added (which happens to come from an old Dell projector briefcase that my office was tossing out). With the padding, I feel a bit more safe. I still need to sew some fabric sleeves to shove the foam into though.

To conclude, I would recommend the Orion to anyone who's at least my height (5'4") and doesn't mind looking like he/she is going hiking. If one wants a slim backpack, I'm not sure where to look. Slappa Velocity Matrix might be slimmer though.

 

Oh yes, Fearless Leader, I am referring to you...

You have the 17 inch Orion. I bought the 18 in unit so the 18 inch Slappa sleeve would fit in the special pouch. I can get away without extra padding.

For me this solution is a huge difference from my old Swiss 15 inch backpack. I have to wonder how the 18 inch Orion is going to fit on a plane. Will it fit under the seat in a regional jet? Will it fit handle first in the overhead? Will I now become one of those terrible people who hog all the overhead space on the plane? Right now I am able to work from home so I'm not in a hurry to find the answers to my questions. However, they are sitting in the back of my mind. The answers are less important than knowing that my machine is well protected.

 

17inch is pretty wide/deep backpack, so I'm not sure if it'd fit under your seat. If it was only loaded with your lappy and plugs, then prolly yes. But anything beyond that might be pushing it in terms of size. It's about 10inches high when you lie the bag down on the floor (lie not stand).

 

Many thanks for these replies folks (+1 rep each). I've done a bit more looking at the various options since, and have pretty much settled on ordering a Slappa Matrix.

Two quick questions, if anybody can advise:
1. If I order the 'Slappa Ballistix PTAC Matrix' laptop sleeve, will the 17" variety accommodate the M17X R3, or should I opt for the 18" (and, if I do have to go for the 18", is the laptop likely to be somewhat 'loose' within the sleeve)?

...Additionally, whether I order the 17" or 18", are either/both of these likely to fit (M17X R3 contained) within the laptop compartment of the 'Slappa Matrix' 17" backpack, without unreasonable difficulty?


2. The Matrix (on the European site) is listed as 'MATRIX 15.4" and 17" Laptop Backpacks', but lists no option to select size. Can I assume from this that there is a 'one-size-fits-all' option? (don't wish to find a lilliputian backpack arriving... literally... through the letterbox )

As before, any and all advice gratefully received. Cheers folks.

 

I've read in multiple places that the 18" is the best fit for the m17. A couple of the reviews I saw said that it fits the G73 perfectly. That unit is very comparable in size. I have one on the way and will report back on the snugness of the fit.

 

got a quick question here. I am looking at the orion messenger bag and see that dookie you got it for free, how is that? Also where is the orion messenger bag the cheapest.

One last question, do you guys believe that this messenger bag would fit the m17x r3. BELKIN COMPONENTS Evo Messenger Case - Fits Laptops with Screen Sizes Up to 17-inch - Black/Red : Laptop Accessories | Dell

 

Many thanks for this reply sdcalbchguy.
Since my last posting, I’ve been informed that Slappa sleeves will not fit inside their backpacks’ laptop compartments (as not designed for this purpose)… so, fair enough…

I was about set to order a Slappa Matrix or Spyder backpack… I then reviewed the thread and saw a few mentions of people opting for the M.A.S.K. over the Matrix, due to its greater capacity… this interested me as, though I’d like a ‘snug’ fit for my R3, I don’t want it to be too snug…

I then reviewed the specs for these packs on: http://www.slappa.com/catalog/2011catalog.pdf

…and found these stats:

Matrix/Spyder (17”):
Outer Bag Dimensions: 15” x 22”
Laptop Compartment Dimensions: 14” x 16” x 2.5”

M.A.S.K. (17”):
Outer Bag Dimensions: 13” x 18” x 11”
Laptop Compartment Dimensions: 12.5” x 16.5” x 2.5”

…These would seem to suggest, contrary to viewed posts, that the M.A.S.K., in some regards, is the smaller of the two options. However, as the M17X R3 is listed as: 11.97” x 16.14” x 1.77”, either backpack would seem to suffice.

I’d be very interested to a comparative view of the relative ‘fit’ of these backpacks, in conjunction with the R3.

Any thoughts regarding such a comparison would be helpful.
Thank you

 

I have the Orion backpack, which I'm happy with (mostly cuz it was free ).

 

You lucky dookie man!

 

If you have any complaints that need some settlin', I'd suggest the first thing you ask for is free stuff. First one being free bag, cuz from what I've heard (and have experienced recently) is that they're pretty willing to let a free bag go, rather than refund yo cash.

 

i am happy that you were able to receive it for free... Quick question though were you able to look at the Belkin messenger bag i posted in my previous post? It's pretty cheap and looks nice. I would just like to know if it would fit the m17x r3.

 

It doesn't list the specs, so no idea.

 

Hey guys I thought I should report in on my backpack situation.

Awhile back I posted pictures of thr free 17" ecosmart spruce backpack. I think they list it for the xps17. It does NOT fit the m17x-r3 properly. I called Dell returns and was like why would they throw in a backpack that doesn't even fit. They immediately offered the alienware Orion backPack. I hope it's a good fit

 

Gabardine,

I did a first impressions review of the M.A.S.K. KOA where I talk about the differences between it and the Matrix I'd bought a few weeks before.

I also have a post of photos of the M.A.S.K. which includes some pics of how the R3 fits in the sleeve.

Subjective review and not really about the numbers, but I discuss my needs and the reasons why I preferred the M.A.S.K. The main one was—as I've mentioned several times previous—the R3 fit much better in the M.A.S.K.

You may have already read those, but it sounds like you didn't since you asked for exactly what I tried to convey in those posts.

Hope that helps.

 

Roykirk… many thanks for this reply. Now that I see your previous M.A.S.K. discussion posting, I can recall having skimmed it when on a general backpack search (as opposed to researching Slappa products specifically)… don’t know how it evaded memory… ridiculously-early-onset-senility perhaps . Anyway, it’s a very helpful discussion of the product – very useful and much appreciated… (I was/am quite familiar with your M.A.S.K. photos – one of the reasons for my further investigation of the product)… (+1 rep for the original posting and subsequent referral – well deserved).

I do have one question:
You state that, “Laptop compartment is larger than the one in the Velocity Matrix and I can close the velcro flap even with my R3 inside its original thin black sleeve, which I could not do with the Velocity Matrix.”

If you can advise… was it possible, when your R3 was not in its original sleeve, to close the Velcro flap on the Velocity Matrix?

The fact is that, in my ‘neck of the woods’ (Ireland… for my sins ), there’s a quite considerable price differential between the Matrix/Spyder and the M.A.S.K. – therefore, ideally, I’d like to order the Matrix/Spyder, but I don’t wish to do this at the expense of everyday usability.

So, if you can advise, with reference to the Velocity Matrix ‘Velcro flap’ issue, this would be of great help. Cheers

 

Matrix: The flap would curl over, but the velcro on the flap would not match up with the velcro on the outside of the compartment, so it was loose. If I took the R3 out of the protective sleeve in which it originally shipped, that gave it the extra little bit that allowed the flap to close.

A very good bag, but not quite as roomy as the M.A.S.K. for other things as well as the R3.

M.A.S.K.: In or out of the original protective sleeve, the flap closes and velcro seals with no problems whatsoever.

Great bag with plenty of room all around, as you may have seen from the photos.

I do have one of those tiny Logitech mouse USB dongles that I leave in the laptop, so that might have made a difference as well. If you don't use one of those, the Matrix may seal up for you.

If I can hunt down the Matrix in the mess that is my home, I'll see what I can do about taking some photos of the R3 in it, but it's not on my list of priorities at the moment.

 

Cheers mate... appreciate this – very informative. I may order the Matrix this evening. With most purchases, I look for reasons ‘not to’, and when I’ve finally exhausted these, I go ahead and do so (the pessimist purchaser )… I appear to be arriving at that point now.

That said, any Matrix/R3 photos that you could supply would definitely be of help.

One final Q for now: Regarding the ‘Matrix’ and ‘Spyder’ variations of this backpack model, have you any knowledge/opinions that would lead you to selecting one over the other?

Once again, many thanks for your help and advice.

 

I fear not. I wasn't aware of the Spyder's existence at the time I purchased the Matrix.

And you're welcome.

 

A little offtopic but I am looking for microfiber cloth for my R3 to place between keyboard & screen..

I tried searching on ebay & amazon but no luck with international shipping as I live in Singapore..

If anyone finds anything please post here! TYIA!!

 

Full discussion of this very thing in another thread. Here's the post that I added with a photo of the exact item I think you're looking for.

MacBook Screen Protector, LCD Display Cleaner, Keyboard Cover for MacBook, MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, PowerBook, iBook & PC is what I ordered.

 

Shaggymac or your nearest fabric store too

 

Quick question for I order a bag.

Was looking at this one: MOBILE EDGE Mobile Edge Alienware Orion Messenger - Draagtas voor notebook - 17.3" - zwart : Accessoires voor laptops | Dell Nederland

Fits everything nicely? 3D glasses, cd's/dvd's, charger and a mouse.

I really need a bag, bin carrying the box arround work at night, people giving me crazy looks.

 

So anyone know of any waterproof laptop sleeves that are padded? I cant seem to find any!

 

Go with the Alienware laptop bag. The quality is outstanding and seems to be waterproof as far as transporting it in the rain to and fro ma vehicle. I wouldnt reccommend long direct exposure in the rain. Wouldnt reccommend that with any sleeve/bag with as much as these Alienwares are.

 

Being military I want something completely waterproof, though may just go with very sturdy and impact resistant with a huge ziplock lol! Or two zip locks!

 

Haha zip lock! priceless! I'm military too and got the Alienware laptop bag because its easier to transport. I'm not so much worried about rain as as I am sand. when I go to Afghanistan I dont want sand getting in the system.

 

Why not a Pelican case

 

+1 for the Pelican Case

 

Already have a large one, need this for my backpack/assault pack so it has to be small enough. Will also use it for school etc so has to fit next to books.

 

I have a backpack, but I'm gonna get one of those bags too, looks nice!

 

I have this bag. It's AWESOME!!! It's got a ton of compartments and its padded nicely. M17x R3 fits just right. Kinda snug but in a good way. Definetly worth the money!

It does get heavy and bulky though the more you put in it, but thats the beauty of all the room and compartments in it.

 

So how padded is the bottom? Dont want my AW to slam into the ground eveytime I put it on the ground.

 

the bottom doesnt seem padded, but if you put your hand at the bottom of the sleeve where the laptop goes its padded. I would say its a 1/3 inch thick. I wouldnt slam it to the ground, but placing it on the ground constantly will be fine.

The part that rubs against the body is extremely padded. Very soft and def a plus. I was shocked how cushined it is.

 

I have the backpack. I can fit my R3, plugs, mouse, mousepad, PS3, 3 controllers, an external 3.5" hdd with plugs+cables, pens, earbuds, and general stationary. It's heavy, but it all fits. Just be careful, cuz the seams near the zippers look like they're gonna snap off if you overstuff the backpack. You should get the backpack though, OP, cuz it's more comfy I bet.

Agreed. Very poor padding actually. I added padding to the base to make it work. I have pics on the backpacks thread of full padding mod if you're curious. Have yet to sew fabric sleeves to put the padding in though. Gotta find time.

I have the Orion backpack, and occasionally use the sleeve I bought (link for it is in my signature. It's snug and has a smelly rubber smell, but after 8 washes in the washer, and airing it out for weeks, it's fine. It's still very snug though, and only good for travel---not day-to-day use. I'm contemplating sewing a new fabric sleeve (similar to the stock one we received), but vertical for easy access/removal.

 

In the U.S. you can get that for about a third of the price...damn. No VAT either.

 

Ditch the issues assault pack and get a Bug Out bag at the local AAFES. Then, get the smallest Pelican case that will fit the unit, (call Pelican with the exact dimensions of your r3, they're MORE than willing to go the extra mile, especially for mil)

The issued assault pack sucks, and you cant fit in there anyway.

 

haha how funny would it be if I pulled out a giant pelican case from my rucksack out in the field.... Hahaha!!

 

I not going to buy the backpack since I only need to move my stuff to my car and from my car to work and vice versa.

Yeah it cost alot in europe but I will have a look at ebay.

 

Hey gang,

I can't make up my mind on a bag. I've narrowed it down to the Orion, the Matrix, or the M.A.S.K. I am mostly looking for a bag that will hold my M17X + accessories and maybe 4 days worth of clothes and such. (I spend part of the week over at my GF's, so I want a bag big enough to take all my stuff.) I also want something easy to carry.

Orion definitely wins on price, but I am not sure I want the attention of the logo. The matrix and mask look great from the reviews people have posted, but I don't know if the extra space on the mask is worth the cost.

Any thoughts?

Thanks.

 

If 4days of clothes, then a duffle bag is way better. Your clothes will protect the lappy way better than the padding in the Orion (there's next to zero padding in it).

 

I'm trying to decide what would work best for me and my M17xR3. Most of the time this laptop will never leave my house - it's more of a portable desktop, moving from my study to my living room.

However, now and then I'm going to need to take it somewhere. These will be driving vacations, or weekend trips. I'm not terribly concerned about ease of carry, as mostly I'll just be moving it from the house to my vehicle, and from the vehicle to a hotel room. I'm more concerned about making sure the laptop is safe when it's packed into the vehicle with other suitcases and such, or protected should it fall off a luggage cart on the way up to the hotel room.

I'm considering either the Slappa Hardbody Pro (which would then hold the other power brick and mouse), or one of the Pelican briefcases that would really only hold the laptop (I'd have to put the power brick and mouse in another bag or suitcase).

Obviously the Hardbody Pro is less expensive at about half the price of the Pelican 1495 CC.
Do either of these really provide good protection, or is the foam thickness around this huge laptop just not enough for small fall (say, 3 feet)? Or any other case recommendations?

 

ok. I really like having a backpack, something I can wear, so after much pondering, I went with the Slappa M.A.S.K. People have already done breakdowns of this backpack, so I'll post just a mini-review with my thoughts:

Pros: Everything about this backpack is well-made. It's lightweight, stylish, and has so much room. It fits my M17x perfectly, and I actually am pretty impressed with the padding. I think it would survive a mid-low height fall. I wouldn't go throwing my backpack around, but I think it would be all right except under extreme circumstances. The pockets are of good size for my accessories. I want to like this backpack so much... except there's one problem.

Cons: The stupid hand in the middle of the back. I do not know how the other reviews did not complain about how annoying this is. Maybe it's just my height and how it falls on my back. But with just my laptop in it, it feels like someone is poking me in the lower back EVERY time I take a step. This is a deal-breaker. I'm thinking about sending it back. For a $140 backpack, I'd expect it to be comfortable in the main place a backpack should be, that is carrying it. They do charge a restocking fee... so maybe I'll give it another try to see if I can get used to it. Ugg.

 

My son chose a Slappa Hardbody Pro for his Dell Studio 17 laptop - it should arrive today. So I'll check it out with the M17xR3 (once my reordered one arrives) and post some pictures.

 

Sorry to hear that the M.A.S.K. is not working out well for you. I didn't complain about it in my review because it was actually kind of nice to have that hand (I think I did mention this in passing). It allows a bit of airflow and hence less sweaty back. I do not find it uncomfortable at all, but it hits squarely in the middle of my back, not the lower back.

It may well be the way you wear the pack. I have the straps cinched up tight so it rides high. That's the way I've always liked wearing my packs, keeping the weight up high to relieve stress on the lower back and put more on the shoulders. The hand is a steady pressure, not bouncing against me with every step.

But you're right to consider returning it. At that price it had better be the bee's knees, like it was for me. I wish you well finding one that suits you better.

 

The Orion although lacking in padding, is surprisingly comfy with the R3 in it. However, if I add my padding-mods, the back becomes very uncomfortable and stiff.

 

The hard body pro from slappa does easily hold the m17x r3. In fact, its actually two inches too wide, it tends to slide around a bit. I don't have pics right now. I just got one for my R3 yesterday.

N

 

I like the looks of the hardbody pro my son just got, but the padding is almost non-existant on the edges. It's really only padded on the side (where the bottom of the laptop would be). I don't have an M17xR3 at the moment (I'm in between shipments...heh), but if there's room on the sides then some foam might alleviate that problem of not enough padding.

 

This is true; I'm not crazy about the edges either...it may end up going back.

N