Top-Rated Laptop Backpacks

Choosing a 17 inch laptop backpack that meets all of your needs is important. Think about how you will use your laptop backpack.  Are  you taking your computer to the office and the cafe on the weekend or are you using it to travel and going through airport security?  If you are doing the later, you may want to consider a laptop backpack that is security or checkpoint friendly.

Another VERY important factor to consider when getting a 17″ laptop backpack is whether your computer model will fit.   Note that not all 17″ laptop backpacks will fit in a 17″ laptop backpack. It is important to know the exact dimensions of your computer when deciding which backpack to purchase.   EBags makes this process easy.   When you shop on their website, you can select the model of your laptop from a database on their website and they will let you know if your laptop will fit a specific computer bag.

Here are our top picks for 17″ laptop backpacks and reasons why we like them.   These are not numbered because they are not ranked based on any particular feature.  When available, we’ve included a video review of the product because we think it may be helpful to see the various features demonstrated in a video.  These are video reviews by eBags (retailer) or by the manufacturer of the backpack.

North Face Surge Laptop Backpack

Why we like this backpack: Very spacious main compartment (aside from laptop compartment) and many easily accessible pockets for all your accessories and supplies.   This is a well-made backpack of high quality ballistic nylon.   There is a molded back panel with breathable mesh which makes this backpack comfortable to wear.  This is a top seller among the North Face bags and usually sells out quickly.  This is a fantastic casual laptop backpack. Available Colors: black, blue, cherry brown, gray, and green See a video review of the North Face Surge Laptop Backpack below.

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Skooba RoadWired Checkthrough 17″ Laptop Backpack

Why we like this backpack: This bag is truly designed with the traveler in mind.  It meets TSA criteria for checkpoint friendly bags.  There is a uniquely designed laptop compartment that has a patent-pending quick-recognition window so the airport security screener can get an instant visual (see video below). The compartment includes a divider folder section, perfect for the the business professional. Available Color: black See a video review of the Skooba RoadWired Checkthrough 17″ Laptop Backpack below.

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Mobile Edge Premium Laptop Backpack

Why we like this backpack: This is a nice looking backpack designed to carry all your gear! It has internal media pockets for cell phone and MP3 or CD player with headphone sound port. This is a great bag for casual business people or for students. Available Colors: camo, charcoal/black, navy/black, silver/black, and yellow/black

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eBags Macroloader Laptop Backpack

Why we like this backpack: The Macroloader by eBags is a large capacity bag built to carry heavy loads. It has a side loading laptop compartment. The inside organizer compartment has a nifty fleece-lined pocket for your cell phone, ipod or any other gadgets. There is also an open top pocket that can be used as a headphone port while you’re on the go! This backpack is perfect for wired professionals and students alike. Available Colors: black, blue, and red. See a video review of the eBags Laptop Backpack Macroloader Laptop Backpack below.

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Case Logic Security-Friendly Laptop Backpack

Why we like this backpack: This backpack has a sleek, professional looking design and is checkpoint friendly, making it ideal for the business traveler. We especially like the plush padded laptop compartment. Available Color: black See a video review of the Case Logic Security Friendly Laptop Backpack below.

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Mobile Edge ScanFast Checkpoint Friendly Laptop Backpack

Why we like this backpack: As the name implies, this back is checkpoint friendly. It is a large capacity bag and there are lots of accessible pockets for storage. The ScanFast Backpack is well-made with ballistic nylon and is perfect for the business professional that travels. Available Color: black See the video review from bnetTV for the Mobile Edge ScanFast Checkpoint Friendly Laptop Backpack below.

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Timbuk2 H.A.L. Laptop Backpack

Why we like this backpack: Right off, this is just a very nice looking, stylish bag.  It has easy access pockets on the side and the pockets for organization are well-placed for easy access (see this feature highlighted in the video below).  The bag is well-made with ballistic nylon.  This is a fantastic casual laptop backpack! Available Color: black or gray See a video review of the H.A.L. Laptop BackpackTimbuk2 H.A.L. Laptop Backpack Dark Brown Black Dark Brownbelow.

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Click here to browse more styles of laptop backpacks!

There are many great laptop backpacks to choose from.   The backpack that you will get will be determined by number of factors including, but not limited to, size of laptop compartment, padding for computer, number of compartments, padding on straps (for comfort), and appearance.

If you are using your laptop backpack for work, then you may not want to have a backpack in a bright color or in a printed pattern.  Professional laptop backpacks are usually neutral in color, such as black, brown, or taupe.  If you are a student or if you just want a more casual looking backpack, then you may want to consider a backpack made of canvas material or a colorful bag in a solid or print pattern.

If you have any comments or suggestions about 17″ laptop backpacks, please leave us a comment below or use our contact form.