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    Sleeves for X220 w/9 Cell

    Discussion in 'Lenovo' started by stackPointer2.0, May 11, 2011.

  1. stackPointer2.0

    stackPointer2.0 Notebook Consultant

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    I did not buy the sleeve lenovo offered for the x220, I am looking for a sleeve that would fit the x220 with a 9 cell battery and something that is preferably hard to protect the laptop from any damage. Does anyone have any suggestions or recommendations?
     
  2. david1274

    david1274 Notebook Evangelist

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    I just cover it in bubblewrap and stick it in my rucksack -)
     
  3. csclifford

    csclifford Notebook Evangelist

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    I forgot who it was, but someone ordered the lenovo sleeve with the X220.

    From the picture, the sleeve was much too big for the X220 with a 6-cell battery. However if you had a 9-cell attached it looked like it would fit pretty decently.
     
  4. larryf

    larryf Notebook Guru

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  5. kpresler

    kpresler Notebook Consultant

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    Any 13 inch sleeve should fit fine. As csclifford said, the sleeve option for the X220 is also rather large, so it should fit fine with the 9-cell battery.
     
  6. avash

    avash Notebook Enthusiast

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    I have an X220 with the 9-cell.

    I considered getting the Lenovo 12W sleeve Lenovo URL

    The cost varies depending on deals from Lenovo (usually $15 - $20) but the sleeve is only a neoprene jacket so I felt it wouldn't properly protect my $800 laptop. I decided to order a Zeroshock III case. It costs me about $33 shipped but should do the job. Ebay URL

    I had provided my 9-cell dimensions to the seller prior to buying the Zeroshock and he said this case would be perfect for it, even with the 9-cell. Moving one size up would allow the laptop to slide around a bit and potentially compromise the protection.


    I should be getting it in a day or two, will let you know how it fits.
     
  7. stackPointer2.0

    stackPointer2.0 Notebook Consultant

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    That looks just about perfect, a compact sleeve that also offers shock protection. I see amazon has the zeroshock III for 13 inch laptops, but I'm not sure if that will fit the x220 perfectly. Please do let me know how yours fits.

    Thanks a lot.
     
  8. tarfu

    tarfu Notebook Enthusiast

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    i bought the zeroshock 3 from amazon for $30. it's too big size wise, but just fine thickness wise, for the laptop with the 6 cell. 9 cell would probably fit. i'm keeping it, the sleeve fits well in my pack and i don't mind. the laptop is snug in there - i keep ripping the rubber feet off when i slide it in.
     
  9. ebolamonkey3

    ebolamonkey3 Notebook Consultant

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    It is still kind of large :p
     
  10. stackPointer2.0

    stackPointer2.0 Notebook Consultant

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    Hmm, this is the zeroshock III for 13 in notebooks right?
     
  11. dbman190

    dbman190 Notebook Geek

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    Pics? 10char
     
  12. BassMastaMike

    BassMastaMike Notebook Enthusiast

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  13. avash

    avash Notebook Enthusiast

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    Well, I got it in the mail today, can't take pics til the weekend but I can give you my impressions. It fits the 9-cell nicely.

    Unzipped, there's probably 10mm on the sides and just a little more on the front and rear. You need some space to accommodate the thickness of the laptop when you zip it up.

    Zipped up, I can barely detect the laptop shifting within it when I shift it around. The zippers never contact the laptop, there's a bead to separate them even if the laptop were to shift to the edge.

    FYI, there are multiple size Zeroshock III models. The one I got says it's for 12.1 - 13.3" wide models. I'm glad I didn't get the next size up.
     
  14. stackPointer2.0

    stackPointer2.0 Notebook Consultant

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    Sounds pretty good.
    Amazon.com: Zeroshock III 13-inch Widescreen Notebook Case: Clothing

    Is this the same one you have?

    Can the charger fit in the pouch?

    Thanks
     
  15. Duckfart

    Duckfart Notebook Evangelist

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    Until I get my 9 cell I am using t he BooQ Viper for Macbook Air.

    I love the semi rigid case and the soft interior, The fit inside the built in sleeve was bit tight but it has stretched after a few days and it fits well. Booq had told me the Mcbook Pro would be a better fit but not the same sleeve.
     

    Attached Files:

  16. avash

    avash Notebook Enthusiast

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    Sorry for the delay, got the pics uploaded finally.

    [​IMG]

    [​IMG]

    [​IMG]


    I believe it is the same, Amazon quotes model number 015BK. My packaging shows ZSB-IBO15BK. Dimensions seem about the same.
     
  17. pkincy

    pkincy Notebook Evangelist

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    I think that your choice depends heavily on how you carry it. My IPAD is in a simple Neoprene sleeve with a 1/2 zipper that is plenty of protection as it is always in my larger briefcase unless I am using it. My X220 will be in the neoprene sleeve and in its own compartment in the middle of my briefcase. The briefcase actually has a padded sleeve itself if I ever felt that was necessary but I never have. (Briefcase=Hartmann leather case).

    I would expect the same needs for someone that carries a backpack that has a central compartment for the neoprene sleeve and X220.

    Different needs for someone that carries their laptop outside of a backpack or briefcase.

    Perry
     
  18. avash

    avash Notebook Enthusiast

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    Agreed. I also have a backpack with a padded compartment specific for laptops and originally considered just getting the Lenovo neoprene sleeve. However, I may not want to lug around my backpack all the time so I decided to get a more robust sleeve ... hence the Zeroshock III. I haven't put it to the test and hope I never have to but I'm sure it'll do better than a neoprene sleeve.

    Different cases for different people and different needs. I wanted to share pics of my X220 with the 9-cell in the Zeroshock III to help those shopping around for cases :)
     
  19. stackPointer2.0

    stackPointer2.0 Notebook Consultant

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    Thanks for taking the time to post the pictures. It looks like it fits fairly well.

    I think I will get the same. How are you liking yours so far? Do you feel it actually protects the laptop from shocks and impacts (to a reasonable extent)?
     
  20. stickboy2k

    stickboy2k Notebook Consultant

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    Has anyone found a good case for the x220 with 9-cell?
    Would any 13" bag/case fit the x220 w/ 9cell?
     
  21. MidnightSun

    MidnightSun Emodicon

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    Threads have been merged.

    My advice would be to look at various cases in the 12.1"-13" range, keeping your X220's measurements handy. Some cases are designed to be larger than the advertised size, to account for some bulkier laptops, etc, so your best bet would be to match your measurements up to the "maximum laptop size" specifications of the individual case--that way, you'll get the best fit.

    My guess would be that you'll have most luck with 16:10 13" cases, since the width should be similar, and the depth of the X220 + 9-cell would be roughly similar to a general 13" laptop.
     
  22. avash

    avash Notebook Enthusiast

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    Similar discussion for sleeves compatible with the X220 with 9-cell.

    You're best to confirm the inside dimensions of a case you're unsure of with that of your laptop.

    Link
     
  23. MidnightSun

    MidnightSun Emodicon

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    I have a Zeroshock III for my T500. It has great protection, but one issue is that over time, it seems like the "bumps" in the case make some some light impressions on the matte lid surface. You can usually get it out by wiping the lid down repeatedly, but it gets sort of annoying after a while. Also, noteworthy is that the sleeve does not prevent the corners from wearing down after a while, a chronic issue with the rubbery coating on Thinkpad lids.

    The pouch can fit small items, but I would not try stuffing the charger in there.
     
  24. stackPointer2.0

    stackPointer2.0 Notebook Consultant

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    I have spent a decent amount of time looking for alternative sleeves as I wanted to cheap out a little but I couldn't find anything else which would fit the x220 and offer the same protection. Finally ordered the zeroshock III 13 inch for about 30 USD shipped.

    Thanks for your information/pictures again.
     
  25. Kaso

    Kaso Notebook Virtuoso

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    Thank you for being forthright and realistic in your report, which matches my experience with ThinkPads over the years.

    The rubbery coating on ThinkPad lids is fragile. After a few years of active use, a ThinkPad may look "beaten up" whereas other notebooks with plastic lids still look reasonably new. Also, wiping the lid surface with a damp cloth will bring out tiny dots that appear like shiny metallic particles!

    While the "cheap glossy plastic" lids of other brands are fingerprint magnets, the rubbery coating on ThinkPad lid is a different kind of fingerprint magnet.

    YMMV.
     
  26. dhill

    dhill Notebook Enthusiast

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  27. willmtsai

    willmtsai Notebook Enthusiast

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    Does anyone have experience with Timbuk2s Commute 2.0? I bought one in the small size and it fits the laptop very well, but I'm not too sure if padding is adequate.
     
  28. UNIXgod

    UNIXgod Notebook Enthusiast

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    Nice I got one!

     
  29. willmtsai

    willmtsai Notebook Enthusiast

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    Hows the protection on the hard sleeve? Would it survive a drop? Also for the 6 cell would you recommended the 13'' sleeve?

    Lastly, does anyone know any good sleeves for the 6 cell. I don't have a need for the 9 cell so I didn't get it. But the Lenovo sleeve is too large for the laptop.
     
  30. dbrowdy

    dbrowdy Notebook Consultant

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    I have a Tumbuk2 messenger bag that I've used every day, rain or shine, to bicycle or motorcycle to school and work for something like 5 years now. This bag is one of the most quality items I've ever purchased in my life (barely any signs of wear except some color fading, still waterproof, etc etc). I'd buy another in a second, but this one is so good I don't need to!

    In light of that, I'd be curious to hear your impressions on it when you get it. You have a 6-cell right? Do you think it'd fit a 9-cell okay?
     
  31. willmtsai

    willmtsai Notebook Enthusiast

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    I like it a lot. I have some minor complaints though. I am unsure if the padding is sufficient (hence I'm looking for a sleeve that fits the 6 cell snugly). Also, there are two velcro things which can tuck the corners of the bag inside. I'm still a little unsure of what these are for exactly. Also, this velcro pulls at the edging of the fabric. Overall in terms of comfort, its great and it can store a binder and a couple of books fine. It should fit the 9 cell pretty well, but the battery might stick out slightly from the laptop compartment (though I think laptops were meant to stick out slightly).
     
  32. vinuneuro

    vinuneuro Notebook Virtuoso

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  33. dbrowdy

    dbrowdy Notebook Consultant

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  34. vinuneuro

    vinuneuro Notebook Virtuoso

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    I like the Case Logic one better. It seems like a much cleaner design and better protection too. One you add in the price, $47 + $15 for the flap (which I don't like) to be able to close it +$5 for handles, it becomes are really easy decision. I'm ordering the CaseLogic from provantage for $21 shipped.

    The Waterfield stuff looks like extremely high quality though. If I ever need a laptop bag I'll look at them. The notebook usually goes in the backpack when I'm going to class, the sleeve is for when I'm carrying it by itself or with just one other book.
     
  35. willmtsai

    willmtsai Notebook Enthusiast

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    I have a couple questions.

    Is the Zeroshock III case very thick? I'm putting it in a sleeve then putting it into a laptop compartment.

    Is the waterfield SF sleevecase very thick? Same reasoning as above.

    How is the protection with either of these bags?
     
  36. Duckfart

    Duckfart Notebook Evangelist

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    Willmtsai-
    The Booq Viper does a very good job of protecting the Notebook.
    Like I said, The fit inside the built in sleeve is a bit tight but loosens everyday with use.
     
  37. dbrowdy

    dbrowdy Notebook Consultant

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    I'm not a big fan of the all-around zipper since I'll be throwing mine in a messenger bag and want quick access from the sleeve. However it does look nice and I'd be curious to hear your thoughts on it when you get it.
     
  38. vinuneuro

    vinuneuro Notebook Virtuoso

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    Not only that it's much bulkier than the other sleeves. Good as a standalone case/sleeve, bad if you're throwing it in another bag or backpack.
     
  39. willmtsai

    willmtsai Notebook Enthusiast

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    I'm personally not a fan of booq, especailly since their price can match a custom waterfield sleeve (no worry about sizing w/ high quality US made products).

    For those of you that have a waterfield sleeve, how much bulk does it add to the laptop?
     
  40. dbrowdy

    dbrowdy Notebook Consultant

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    I don't have one but I found the videos on their website to be pretty helpful in determining that kind of thing.
     
  41. willmtsai

    willmtsai Notebook Enthusiast

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    Thanks. I've looked, but its still a little difficult to judge. Thanks though!
     
  42. reasonable excuse

    reasonable excuse Newbie

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    Thanks to avash I have purchased the Zeroshock III ZSB-IBO15BK, difference is I have an X220 Tablet - might not fit but will let all know either way for others reference.
     
  43. solah

    solah Newbie

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    When I ordered my x220 (9-cell) I ordered the sleeve as well. It's a terrible fit, about 2 inches too wide. I ended up using it as additional padding for the inside of my 15-inch bag until I purchased my new bag.

    Although not a sleeve, this cheap Belkin messenger bag:

    Amazon.com: Belkin 10-Inch - 12-Inch Notebook Messenger Bag (Jet/Cabernet): Electronics

    is a perfect fit. The x220 slides in easily, has no room for movement and there is also abundant padding on every side. Btw, the first picture on Amazon is not correct, the strap is completely black. My only issues with the bag are that the strap is not removable, and there are a lot of pockets on the inside. I would have preferred less of a fuss on the inside, but the pockets do no harm, nor do they contribute to a thicker bag.

    The following pictures should give you an idea of fit. Sorry for the quality, my BlackBerry is all I have on hand.

    http://dl.dropbox.com/u/33602/1.jpg
    http://dl.dropbox.com/u/33602/2.jpg
    http://dl.dropbox.com/u/33602/3.jpg
     
  44. jasontw

    jasontw Notebook Enthusiast

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    What are the dimensions on the x220 with a 9 cell battery? 30+ dollars for a sleeve? Is that the typical price for a sleeve for a laptop?
     
  45. tomstrife

    tomstrife Notebook Guru

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    I went to my local Ross (Maybe TJ max might have it too?) and found an awesome random sleeve and a perfect samsonite bag for like 5 and 10 dollars.

    The sleeve fits perfectly with the x220, and the bag perfectly holds the sleeve. YMMV
     
  46. zuku

    zuku Notebook Enthusiast

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    have anyone found any backpack suitable for X220 ??
     
  47. Deviant++

    Deviant++ Notebook Enthusiast

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    I got

    http://i40.tinypic.com/2u5f5eg.jpg

    from

    Bike messenger bag - STORIA - Italian Leather Messenger Bag

    It's got two fully lined main compartments measuring approx 2"x13.5"x9.5" each.

    http://i44.tinypic.com/9zykib.jpg

    With my 9 cell my laptop is around 9-9.5" so it is literally a perfect fit, however it does not have enough padding so I (got suckered) into buying the 12w sleeve, and this is the result.

    http://i40.tinypic.com/2usk36g.jpg

    So now I'm thinking of buying a

    Sleeve Bag Case for IBM ThinkPad X220 X220I E220S | eBay

    as it's a perfect snug fit/wrap even with 9 cell as it's vertically openable as demonstrated in this pic

    http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6004/5999613113_a485b28649.jpg
     
  48. ALLurGroceries

    ALLurGroceries  Vegan Vermin Super Moderator

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    Holy gravedigging Batman! :elvis:

    I just received a Case Logic LNEO-12 and it fits the X220 with the 6-cell like a glove.

    The material is stretchy and it also fits the 9-cell with a little bit of a tug on the zipper when it gets to the corner.

    My slice battery is too far back in the fridge for me to bother testing right now, but if anyone is super-curious if it fits maybe I can dig it out from behind all of my leftovers. :p

    This isn't the world's thickest padded sleeve, but it meets my requirement of basic protection from other stuff in my bag. It's cheap too.

    I just wish it didn't have handles, they're a complete waste of space. I'll probably lop them off.