The Notebook Review forums were hosted by TechTarget, who shut down them down on January 31, 2022. This static read-only archive was pulled by NBR forum users between January 20 and January 31, 2022, in an effort to make sure that the valuable technical information that had been posted on the forums is preserved. For current discussions, many NBR forum users moved over to NotebookTalk.net after the shutdown.
Problems? See this thread at archive.org.
← Previous pageNext page →

    Sleeves, Backpacks and Cases that would fit the Alienware M18xR1/R2/18

    Discussion in 'Alienware 18 and M18x' started by joecait, Apr 29, 2011.

  1. Mr. Fox

    Mr. Fox BGA Filth-Hating Elitist®

    Reputations:
    37,255
    Messages:
    39,354
    Likes Received:
    70,777
    Trophy Points:
    931
    I don't need the backpack, as I have the Orion M18x backpack and think it's perfect. That is a really nice pack, but it looks much larger than what I can use for frequent air travel. The dreadful CRJ planes I frequently find myself on just don't have enough overhead bin space for a thick pack. My work computer bag is already too big and I always have it under the seat in front of me, so that space isn't available.

    However, I am interested in buying the boot. I sent an email to Spires sales department asking them to let me know when they have a boot large enough for the M18x so I can buy one. Looks like a good deal for $29. Would be perfect for carrying it around the house and if it will fit inside of the Orion, even better.
     
  2. joecait

    joecait Notebook Deity

    Reputations:
    285
    Messages:
    787
    Likes Received:
    106
    Trophy Points:
    56
    Thanks for the review and the link to spire. +1 rep.

    I've looked at the Spire before and didn't include it in my list for some reason. I'm guessing it was probably because the boot was too small so I assumed the backpack was too small as well...

    Do you (or anyone) have dimensions of the laptop pocket and possibly more pics around that area? (maybe one directly facing the backpack with the M18x in it?)

    I will do more searches online when I have more time.

    Thanks!
     
  3. debaucher

    debaucher Notebook Deity

    Reputations:
    630
    Messages:
    717
    Likes Received:
    0
    Trophy Points:
    30
    OK, the rep just got back to me (speak of the devil and all that).

    She said unfortunately the boot is still not big enough to fit our m18x.
    SO, I asked her to see if they could possibly make one in the future, but I would not hold my breath for anytime soon.

    She does reiterate that the backpack will fit the m18x just fine, just the boot will be too small.

    I may still buy the backpack.. would have it tomorrow or the next if I order now....hmmmm

    D.
     
  4. joecait

    joecait Notebook Deity

    Reputations:
    285
    Messages:
    787
    Likes Received:
    106
    Trophy Points:
    56
    Looking at some reviews, I think I left it out because the Spire is too big for some airlines as a carry-on...It'd be awesome if they got a way to get the Torq to be a little bigger to just fit the M18x. I'll add it to the list either way.
     
  5. Red_Eye_Express

    Red_Eye_Express Notebook Guru

    Reputations:
    45
    Messages:
    55
    Likes Received:
    2
    Trophy Points:
    16
    Negatory, I've been travelling for 14 years, the last 5 with the Spire . I've been on the smallest Horizon puddle jumper, Delta CRJ and Frontier commuters. It always fits, and remember I carry two laptops. There has been a few times I've taken out the d600 in its boot and kept it under my seat. So no sir, it is way under the carry on size limit.
     
  6. Red_Eye_Express

    Red_Eye_Express Notebook Guru

    Reputations:
    45
    Messages:
    55
    Likes Received:
    2
    Trophy Points:
    16
    I'd have waited on a new boot. I talked with them on Facebook but didnt get anything that sounded like they had something in the works. Either way, I'm travelling with it tomorrow to SF so I had no time to wait.

    To the other question, yes I have the old style , the new one is even cooler but not enough for me to spend $250 when this one still works perfectly :)
     
  7. joecait

    joecait Notebook Deity

    Reputations:
    285
    Messages:
    787
    Likes Received:
    106
    Trophy Points:
    56
    I'm sure it's smaller than a roller bag, the point I was trying to make however is that with everyone using more carry-ons with checked luggage fees, I always see flights where the gate agents start tagging "larger" bags for jetway check-in.

    I fly Hawaiian and the max size for a carry-on should be "no more than 45 linear inches, or 9"x14"x22" (H+W+L)" (From their website). The is listed as 22.0"h x 14.0"w x 10.0"d (just 1" more), but since it's so much larger, it could be targeted for check-in on flights.

    I've never been forced to check my carry-on, but with expensive laptops/cameras, etc...it's a hassle I'd rather avoid completely if I could.

    That said, I am considering this bag as well now, but I don't know how it would fit/look on my small sub-6' frame.
     
  8. Mr. Fox

    Mr. Fox BGA Filth-Hating Elitist®

    Reputations:
    37,255
    Messages:
    39,354
    Likes Received:
    70,777
    Trophy Points:
    931
    That's good to know. It must look larger in photos than what it really is. It could still be an issue in my case because of the second bag I carry that has to go under the seat. The only good thing about the CRJ and Bombardier Turbo-props is the space under the seats is larger than the big planes with no "legs" dividing up the space under each seat.
     
  9. Red_Eye_Express

    Red_Eye_Express Notebook Guru

    Reputations:
    45
    Messages:
    55
    Likes Received:
    2
    Trophy Points:
    16
    Yeah, they've never asked me since I've had it if that helps. I wear it and being 6'6" they dont see it perhaps? :))) It worked out great today, didnt quite fit the TSA tray but obivously no issues on a a319.
     
  10. joecait

    joecait Notebook Deity

    Reputations:
    285
    Messages:
    787
    Likes Received:
    106
    Trophy Points:
    56
  11. Mr. Fox

    Mr. Fox BGA Filth-Hating Elitist®

    Reputations:
    37,255
    Messages:
    39,354
    Likes Received:
    70,777
    Trophy Points:
    931
  12. CptEzz

    CptEzz Notebook Enthusiast

    Reputations:
    2
    Messages:
    43
    Likes Received:
    1
    Trophy Points:
    15
    So, just one question, will the TORQ fit the m18x? Not looking forward to shelling out $250 for a bag!
     
  13. NYC Drifter

    NYC Drifter Notebook Evangelist

    Reputations:
    1,321
    Messages:
    369
    Likes Received:
    0
    Trophy Points:
    30
    Another Orion Messenger Bag Strap FAIL. :eek:

    [​IMG]
     
  14. Red_Eye_Express

    Red_Eye_Express Notebook Guru

    Reputations:
    45
    Messages:
    55
    Likes Received:
    2
    Trophy Points:
    16
    My assumption is no on the Torq. Lots of options out there, unfortunately the is a choice for someone who knows they'll have the bag for 10+ years (only $25 a yr then :))
     
  15. Tilt

    Tilt Notebook Consultant

    Reputations:
    19
    Messages:
    121
    Likes Received:
    0
    Trophy Points:
    30
    For those of you using the Orion backpack, how is the actual laptop slot? I picked one up from amazon the other day for my incoming Nyx, but was curious about how you found it for transporting. Generally slide it into a bit of a soft case or just let it sit in there against the Velcro and rubberish plastic?
     
  16. Mr. Fox

    Mr. Fox BGA Filth-Hating Elitist®

    Reputations:
    37,255
    Messages:
    39,354
    Likes Received:
    70,777
    Trophy Points:
    931
    I think the backpack is outstanding. I use the black clotch pouch the M18x came in before I slide it into the backpack. I used to do the same with my R2. I have not found a sleeve that would work with the M18x. Ideally, it would be inside of a canvas or neoprene sleeve as well, for triple protection. The sleeve I used for the R2 is wide enough, but the depth front front to back is about an inch too much... cannot zip it shut.
     
  17. Tilt

    Tilt Notebook Consultant

    Reputations:
    19
    Messages:
    121
    Likes Received:
    0
    Trophy Points:
    30
    Interesting. From what I have seen of the unboxing, I don't believe the Nyx comes in a nice cloth pouch, like the M18x does, so I will have to keep my eyes open for something that will fit it. Cheers Mr. Fox
     
  18. SeanOfOz

    SeanOfOz Notebook Consultant

    Reputations:
    34
    Messages:
    101
    Likes Received:
    0
    Trophy Points:
    30
    Just a cudos to HIDevolution. Ordered my orion backpack from them using the cheapest possible shipping and got it surprisingly quickly (in Australia). It was packed well, albeit wrapped so tightly it was a real challenge to get it out without cutting the bag. Very happy though, would recommend them to others who cannot get the bag locally.
     
  19. pamupec

    pamupec Newbie

    Reputations:
    0
    Messages:
    6
    Likes Received:
    0
    Trophy Points:
    5

    Attached Files:

  20. iPhantomhives

    iPhantomhives Click the image to change your avatar.

    Reputations:
    791
    Messages:
    1,665
    Likes Received:
    48
    Trophy Points:
    66
    Rawwr , just got my backpack its so huge! I like it really much haha , so many slots to put my junks , even headset :)
     
  21. Invectus

    Invectus Newbie

    Reputations:
    0
    Messages:
    6
    Likes Received:
    0
    Trophy Points:
    5
    Hi Sean, how long did it take for the order to reach you in Australia?
     
  22. joecait

    joecait Notebook Deity

    Reputations:
    285
    Messages:
    787
    Likes Received:
    106
    Trophy Points:
    56
    Anyone have experience with this backpack from Toshiba?
    Toshiba 18-inch Extreme Backpack - Black & Blue from Toshiba

    Specifications:
    * Color & Exterior Material: Black with blue and grey accents; 1680D Ballistic Polyester & 600D Polyester Ripstop
    * Device Capacity: 12” w X 1.5” d X 18”h

    M18x:
    Alienware M18x
    * Starting Weight: 11.93 lb
    * Height (front) 2.09" to (rear) 2.13"
    * Depth: 12.68"
    * Width: 17.17"

    It seems long enough, but the slot isn't as wide or thick. A store might have it and it'd be nice to check it out.
     
  23. debaucher

    debaucher Notebook Deity

    Reputations:
    630
    Messages:
    717
    Likes Received:
    0
    Trophy Points:
    30
    Read the 1st post in this thread, it will tell you all you need to know

    D.
     
  24. joecait

    joecait Notebook Deity

    Reputations:
    285
    Messages:
    787
    Likes Received:
    106
    Trophy Points:
    56
    Uhhh, I posted and currently maintain the first post in this thread. This is a new Toshiba backpack which hasn't had any reviews yet so I was just seeing if anyone had seen it or have it.

    :)

    This isn't the Toshiba backpack with that removable pocket board.
     
  25. debaucher

    debaucher Notebook Deity

    Reputations:
    630
    Messages:
    717
    Likes Received:
    0
    Trophy Points:
    30
    AHHH, my bad.
    I thought it was the same Toshiba 18" backpack listed in the first thread.

    D>
     
  26. SeanOfOz

    SeanOfOz Notebook Consultant

    Reputations:
    34
    Messages:
    101
    Likes Received:
    0
    Trophy Points:
    30
    I'd say about a week, maybe even less. Not sure exactly, as I was expecting it to take much longer and when a delivery arrived for me I couldn't image what it could be!
     
  27. OmegaNemesis28

    OmegaNemesis28 Notebook Geek

    Reputations:
    0
    Messages:
    81
    Likes Received:
    0
    Trophy Points:
    15
    Im looking for a backpack to stick my M18x in and maybe a textbook/notebook. Nothing more. Anything out there that exists?
    I hear the Orion is big but no one gives much details.
     
  28. Mr. Fox

    Mr. Fox BGA Filth-Hating Elitist®

    Reputations:
    37,255
    Messages:
    39,354
    Likes Received:
    70,777
    Trophy Points:
    931
    I absolutely love the Orion M18x backpack. It's perfect IMHO. The only downside I can see is that it's a billboard advertisement about what's inside and it might increase the risk of theft.

    I hear Orion messenger bags are having issues with stitching coming undone, which could be disastrous. I think there are a couple of posts with photos a bit earlier in the thread.
     
  29. ivander_atmojo

    ivander_atmojo Notebook Consultant

    Reputations:
    116
    Messages:
    139
    Likes Received:
    0
    Trophy Points:
    30
    there are some pictures in the earlier post, and M18x Orion Backpack Unboxing - YouTube this video might help you get the idea.

    I am waiting for the samsonite aramon 18.4" for my laptop sleeves.

    Samsonite Aramon 2 Laptop Sleeve 18.4inch – LaptopStuff.co.uk - Laptop Products

    I get it much cheaper of amazon, I already fitted it in the store and it fits perfectly :D good cushion for bumps, but wont do much help if you throw your m18x around, or fell from anything higher than 0.5 meter i guess..
     
  30. Scrawl

    Scrawl Notebook Enthusiast

    Reputations:
    24
    Messages:
    45
    Likes Received:
    1
    Trophy Points:
    16
    Gratuitous self portraits attached. I'm 5'9. The backpack is as wide as me but quite flat if you don't carry the power supply.

    Overall, great backpack. Been through a few international airport scanners now (Non US) and haven't needed to take the laptop out of the bag.

    It really does need a waist-strap. Carrying 7.5kgs on the shoulders is not doing my back any good.
     

    Attached Files:

  31. Mr. Fox

    Mr. Fox BGA Filth-Hating Elitist®

    Reputations:
    37,255
    Messages:
    39,354
    Likes Received:
    70,777
    Trophy Points:
    931
    Looks exactly like the type of sleeve I am looking for, but it does not appear to be available in the USA. I can only find it online in the UK and Europe. The part # is V5109016.
     
  32. AirJordan

    AirJordan Notebook Evangelist

    Reputations:
    35
    Messages:
    474
    Likes Received:
    27
    Trophy Points:
    41
    That does look like a very good sleeve. For some reason that sleeve is sold in every other size besides 18.4" in the US. :(
     
  33. NYC Drifter

    NYC Drifter Notebook Evangelist

    Reputations:
    1,321
    Messages:
    369
    Likes Received:
    0
    Trophy Points:
    30
    An unhelpful custom service rep refuses to warrant this new bag saying that it is too old. :rolleyes: He has sent me a return authorization for my M18X instead. I have to keep the bag, printer and Visio, but can return the PC. What a ******** :mad: I'm going to escalate this. ;)
     
  34. Mr. Fox

    Mr. Fox BGA Filth-Hating Elitist®

    Reputations:
    37,255
    Messages:
    39,354
    Likes Received:
    70,777
    Trophy Points:
    931
    I just might order one from the UK. I do not like the idea of buying products internationally, but may have no choice. I may check with the local Samsonite dealer at the mall to see if it can be ordered. It's pretty retarded that Samsonite would not sell this size everywhere in the world. I've always purchased bags that were "too big" on purpose to accommodate extra stuff, so I'm sure they would sell these to customers with 15" and 17" laptops as well as those of us that will fill it up with our 18.4" monsters.
     
  35. AirJordan

    AirJordan Notebook Evangelist

    Reputations:
    35
    Messages:
    474
    Likes Received:
    27
    Trophy Points:
    41
    I hope they can order in. The 17" version is only $25, while the 18.4" (if ordered from the UK) is roughly ~$54. A bit expensive if you ask me. :(
     
  36. OmegaNemesis28

    OmegaNemesis28 Notebook Geek

    Reputations:
    0
    Messages:
    81
    Likes Received:
    0
    Trophy Points:
    15
    Thanks for the pics!

    Amazon.com: Mobile Edge Alienware Orion M18x Backpack - ScanFast (AWBP18): Electronics

    good price or ney?

    The messenger bag looks nice but after reading about the straps I'd be scared to even put it on. :p
     
  37. Scrawl

    Scrawl Notebook Enthusiast

    Reputations:
    24
    Messages:
    45
    Likes Received:
    1
    Trophy Points:
    16
    Looks pretty good to me.
     
  38. ivander_atmojo

    ivander_atmojo Notebook Consultant

    Reputations:
    116
    Messages:
    139
    Likes Received:
    0
    Trophy Points:
    30
    http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B003O8E9WU/ref=oss_product
    here man, this is the cheapest but it's domestic only. I suggest you contact the seller, you might be able to arrange something.
    I got it at £35.52 but it still not arrived yet :( i hope tomorrow it will be here :D if i go to local retailer here it costs €50 in NL
     
  39. fastscooby01

    fastscooby01 Notebook Guru

    Reputations:
    2
    Messages:
    68
    Likes Received:
    0
    Trophy Points:
    15
    So I've been reading through here and saw a couple of post that look to confirm it, but is it official that the m17 orion backpack will work just fine with the m18x?

    I already have an m17 orion and my m18 will be here in a day or two so if it fits with no issues then I dont really see any point in spending the extra money if this one will work properly without being too tight or the zipper potentially putting scratches on the laptop.
     
  40. eadgar

    eadgar Notebook Consultant

    Reputations:
    6
    Messages:
    135
    Likes Received:
    28
    Trophy Points:
    41
    Does only Dell sell the M18x Orion backpack? I want to find some place that sells it cheaper. £100 is a bit much for a bag.
     
  41. Flashpoint

    Flashpoint Notebook Evangelist

    Reputations:
    192
    Messages:
    419
    Likes Received:
    0
    Trophy Points:
    30
  42. debaucher

    debaucher Notebook Deity

    Reputations:
    630
    Messages:
    717
    Likes Received:
    0
    Trophy Points:
    30
    Could you throw up a few pictures with the m18x inside so we can get an idea of how exactly it fits?

    Would be much appreciated.

    D.
     
  43. Flashpoint

    Flashpoint Notebook Evangelist

    Reputations:
    192
    Messages:
    419
    Likes Received:
    0
    Trophy Points:
    30
    No prob, I'll load them up tonight (Assuming the Tech doesn't do anything stupid to my laptop).
     
  44. NYC Drifter

    NYC Drifter Notebook Evangelist

    Reputations:
    1,321
    Messages:
    369
    Likes Received:
    0
    Trophy Points:
    30
    My sales rep is sending a replacement Orion BackPack. Not a big fan, but the options are few. The Targus above looks decent ;)
     
  45. Alienwhere

    Alienwhere Notebook Consultant

    Reputations:
    82
    Messages:
    296
    Likes Received:
    8
    Trophy Points:
    31
    Just bought the Orion M18x backpack on Amazon after watching the prices for a few days. It seems to go up to $93-94 during the daytime, and is as low as $86-87 some evenings. Of course the prices the other sellers list at affects the Amazon.com price as well.

    Just a heads up for those wanting to buy, you can probably save a few bucks by waiting and watching for the $86-87 price. There's also a $30 off offer when you apply for an Amazon credit card, too, making it an incredible deal.
     
  46. joecait

    joecait Notebook Deity

    Reputations:
    285
    Messages:
    787
    Likes Received:
    106
    Trophy Points:
    56
    Added and added the Citygear and groove backpack to "probably" fit as well on the list.
     
  47. NYC Drifter

    NYC Drifter Notebook Evangelist

    Reputations:
    1,321
    Messages:
    369
    Likes Received:
    0
    Trophy Points:
    30
    Is the upmost side protected? I'm using an old XL until my replacement Orion comes and there is zero padding at the top of the sleeve because the M18x exceeds the length of the sleeve.
     
  48. Flashpoint

    Flashpoint Notebook Evangelist

    Reputations:
    192
    Messages:
    419
    Likes Received:
    0
    Trophy Points:
    30
    Tech broke my laptop and I don't have my camera at work.

    Yes it exceeds the length of the sleeve by about an inch or so (same as the XL you are using I would guess). I use the Alienware bag that came with the lappy to wrap it, then use the velcro strap over the bag and laptop. It has about an inch or so of space between the top of the bag and the corners.

    Edit: Forgot to mention the rain hood thingy adds an extra 3 layers of cloth? to the top side so even though its outside of the sleeve its still has a few layers over it.
     
  49. NYC Drifter

    NYC Drifter Notebook Evangelist

    Reputations:
    1,321
    Messages:
    369
    Likes Received:
    0
    Trophy Points:
    30
    yes sounds the same as the XL thanks
     
  50. clinkclank

    clinkclank Notebook Enthusiast

    Reputations:
    3
    Messages:
    16
    Likes Received:
    0
    Trophy Points:
    5
← Previous pageNext page →