A one-of-a-kind carrying case for MacBooks.
As is the case with many people, I currently work from home full-time. While this is a blessing for my family, it is not without its hurdles as far as work goes. I’ve been very fortunate to be able to start a new job that has provided me with a new 16-inch MacBook Pro, which is the ideal computer for my work activities. The unfortunate thing about this acquisition was that all of my current accessories fit my personal 13-inch MacBook Pro. Fortunately, I knew where to turn – Twelve South. They create premium, protective, stylish gear for Apple users. And, fortunately for me, Twelve South recently released the SuitCase for MacBook computers. This minimalist case was perfect for my needs.
DETAILS
The SuitCase is designed exclusively for the MacBook Pro/Air. There are two sizes – 13 and 16 inches. The case is made up of an interior thermoform shell. The case features a suspension system that allows users to work on their MacBook while it’s in the case. The case has a quilted exterior and leather handle. The SuitCase has a slim profile and it can be slipped into a larger bag or backpack. There is an interior pocket that can store cables or paperwork. As far as protection goes, there are three layers of it for the MacBook. The exterior is water-resistant while the interior hardshell case protects against impacts. Finally, on the inside, there is a layer of microfiber that protects the surface of the MacBook from scratches.
Product | Device Compatibility | Model Numbers |
SuitCase for 16-inch MacBook Pro | 16-inch MacBook Pro (or any device measuring up to 0.75″x14.10″x9.75″) | A2141 |
SuitCase for 13-inch MacBook Pro/Air | 13-inch MacBook Pro 13-inch MacBook Air (or any device measuring up to 0.75″x12″x8.5″) | A1706, A1707, A1708, A1989, A1990, A2159, A2141, A2289, A2251 A2179, A1932 |
USER EXPERIENCE
The SuitCase came in a simple cardboard sleeve. The front of the carton reads tailored notebook case with interior pocket. The back of the cardboard shows some photos of the product in use and outlines the main features. Inside the case, there is a styrofoam cutout that helps maintain the case’s shape. There is also a protective piece of parchment slipped in between the sides of the cable pocket.
One of the first things I noticed was the weather-resistant coating on top of the zipper channel. While I really love that this feature keeps the interior of the case dry and safe from the elements, it does make it harder to open and close the zipper. In fact, the zipper got caught on it a couple of times as I was trying to get it opened and shut. The handle is ‘recessing,’ which means that when it’s not in use it lays flat against the spine of the case. I really like this feature, too, because it makes it easier to slip the entire case into a larger bag. The leather on the handle does feel very luxurious and sturdy. I think over time, it will age well.
When I first read over the specs and heard about the ‘suspension system’ I was a little apprehensive. I’ve had cases in the past that attempt to work with the natural function of the laptop but fail miserably when the cover of the case can’t stay sitting at a 90-degree angle. Twelve South designed a really nice solution for that problem with some elastic cording. The tension created by the cord is enough to keep the top of the case in line with the lid of the laptop when it’s open. This feature is quite invaluable for remote work.
As far as the fit goes, it’s a bit tight. The corners of the MacBook are right up against the edge of the case and while I’m not sure if that hinders the zippers from closing easily, it certainly doesn’t seem to help. And, while I don’t really don’t want to see the laptop sliding around inside the case, it would be nice if there was just a little extra room for it to breathe. I like the interior pocket. It’s not much, but it doesn’t need to be much. It’s just meant for small items like a charging cable or maybe some papers. If you need extra room, you can cart items around inside a larger folio or laptop bag.
CONCLUSION
All in all, SuitCase is a really great option for today’s modern work-from-home/work-remotely users. Because it’s so minimalist, it’s great to pick up and go from place to place, but it’s robust enough to be able to protect your MacBook laptop and it has enough features to really be a great case.
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