What is a laptop sleeve?

Laptop sleeves, also known as portfolio bags or laptop pouches, are slim pouches that slip snugly over a laptop, sort of like an envelope. The sleeve protects the laptop against water, dust, scratches, and bumps.

A laptop sleeve isn’t meant to be carried as a separate bag and usually doesn’t have straps or wheels. Instead, it simply encases the laptop. Many people get both a laptop sleeve and a laptop bag or carrying case, using the sleeve as an added layer of protection within the bag or carrier. Popular brands of laptop sleeves include:

Incase laptop sleeves

Case Logic laptop sleeves

Targus laptop sleeves

Do I need a laptop sleeve?

A laptop sleeve can help protect a laptop against external damage, like rain or dust, extending the device’s life span. It can be especially convenient for students who tend to toss their laptops into their backpacks along with books, pens, water bottles, and other items.

What should I look for in a laptop sleeve?

The first point to consider is whether the sleeve is the right fit for the given laptop size. It’s important to make sure the sleeve is large enough to securely hold the device. It also shouldn’t be too big, or the device will slide around inside.

Laptop sleeves 13-inch

Laptop sleeves 14-inch

Laptop sleeves 15.6-inch

16-inch laptop sleeves

17-inch laptop sleeves

Other considerations include the material and color. Many laptop sleeves are made of water-resistant materials like neoprene. Other popular laptop sleeve materials include polyurethane (PU) leather and leather.

Leather laptop sleeves

Waterproof laptop sleeves

How is a laptop sleeve different from a laptop case?

A laptop sleeve is made of soft, malleable material. In contrast, a laptop case is made of hard material, like plastic. Laptop cases fit directly onto the laptop and are device-specific. While they offer scratch protection, they can’t protect against water, dust, or other elements.