I have the 231x and a now-discontinued Briggs & Riley Verb VB403X which is similar in size and function as the 207x. As a single travel bag for a short trip the 231x is much better particularly if you do not need the file slots on a laptop bag.

The 231x is also good as an accompaniment to a roller as in its unexpanded state it falls just within the dimensions of a personal item for most airlines. Unlike the laptop bag, the 231x can, of course, also be used as a travel bag for those trips where a computer isn't required.

The 231x wasn't designed as a laptop bag however and doesn't have a padded computer compartment so I use a padded laptop sleeve instead.