Tumi laptop case-best model?
 

I have done a lot of searches and read many threads about what is the best laptop case. there are certainly a lot of different opinions but I don't think I am going to be happy unless I buy a Tumi-simply because I have always wanted one and I think they look really professional. However, I am now kind of stumped as to which one I should buy if I decided to go the Tumi route. I looked at the 26160 "Safecase Expandable Organizer Computer Brief" but it felt really heavy. I called Tumi and found out it weighs 9.2 lbs. (I don't understand why Tumi doesn't post their weights of their stuff-they make you call to find out).

I also checked into the 26141 and 26150 which really seems to be be my favorites-they are a little smaller and therefore weigh about 2. lbs. less but still seem a little heavy. However I liked the styles of the outside pockets of these particulr bags. I am still just a little bothered by what seems to be that all the Tumi bags seemed to weigh more than their counterparts in other brands. I don't want a rolling bag or backpack. The other question I would have if anyone has any experience with these bags also in the Napa Leather? Are they so sharp looking that they are worth the extra money?-But I think the leather weighs even a little bit more. I looked at the $199 Briggs and Riley which for the money is probably a little better value but not as good looking as the Tumi.

I need the case to hold my laptop and some file folders along with my laptop cords that always seem to be tangled. So, what say you Tumi owners? Or even if there is a Tumi owner that defected to Briggs & Riley (I can be swayed).

I have the previous generation of model 96141 where the laptop sleeve is non-removable. This is the napa leather version. It is somewhat heavy and I think the laptop sleeve is the cause for the added weight. If you feel the ballistic nylon version at 9 lbs is too heavy then the leather version will be a little more heavier but it is very nice and stylish. The leather is soft and can show scratches with moderate abuse. However, the looks of the Tumi is what I like the most and would still be my choice over B&R though there are many posters on this board who are pro-B&R.

the one with wheels

^

I have this one and love it:

http://www.tumi.com/business_laptop_...?modelid=57431

For a non wheeled one, go with the 26141, have it too and it is great for carrying all the crap you want :)

Tumi is Not What it Once Was
 

I used to be a fan of Tumi. I still carry a seven-year-old Tumi computer bag, but I probably wouldn't buy another.

Tumi does a very good job of maintaining its retail price points by contractually compelling vertical price fixing within its distribution chain (in other words, good luck finding a discount on Tumi that is not for discontinued goods). In return, Tumi produced a first rate product and had absolutely first-rate warranty service.

Within the last two years or so, however, Tumi sold-out to a major international conglomerate. While maintaining the retail pricing structure, the warranty has been significantly dimished and I believe the quality control has dropped somewhat as well.

The net result is that I don't think it's worth what they are charging. YMMV.

[Spelling error fixed]

If I could get the costco kirkland signature bag in red here in UK I'd get one in a heart beat. I think their bags are great! Appaently they are very durable too.

I just don't want the standard black.

/E

If you are willing to go backpack instead of a more traditional bag, I have heard great things about the booq backpacks. I think I will probably be getting one of those when my current bag finally falls apart.

I have the previous Gen of this model and it's been great for the past few years.

Tumi
 

This is the gold-standard for tumi and as Scott posted, holds everything. It also has padded sleeve for laptop which you can carry individual (usually from room to coffee shop or mtg). And pricy

But it is heavy....I use it only for my 2-4 wk international trips when I have to pack only a roller carryon for my clothes. But for everyday use I would recommend something lighter -- here you have a plethora of brands and types to choose from. A cheap kensington padded bag back with strap to carry as messenger bag is what I use for everyday use....$39 from eBay.

But there are so many to choose from....

thanks for all the feedback. I have talked with Tumi and have received the following weights of their models:

26141 7.32 lb
26180 6.57 lb
26150 7.28
96160 9.39, 2160 is 9.11 lbs.
5564 4.9 (but doesn't really fit my need)

really am leaning towards the 26141 but I have to check to see if my laptop will fit it. Unfortunately I don't think it will which may force me to the 26150 (I hope not). I have ruled out the leather because of the extra weight (and cost). Interesting enough, my current bare bones Targus weighs 2.9 lbs. so in any event I may have to start lifting weights just to carry one of these. Seems like the "safecase" adds a couple of extra pounds to the case. After walking around with it I have to believe that extra weight will become very important.

^^^
Same for me, well mine is the 26041, looks identical and I can't tell the difference! Would buy another in a heartbeat.

Incidentally I was interested in buying the leather version but when I saw the ballistic nylon version I went with that. Looks smarter IMO ^

I too have always wanted a TUMI, and am thinking of getting one as a graduation present for myself. Not too crazy about the Gen4 and derivative products, but love this: http://cgi.ebay.com/NEW-TUMI-2967-at...QQcmdZViewItem

The 2967 looks fantastic in my mind, but is it practical? I only ever carry around a laptop (and associated cables) and some folders. I have an STM Backpack, but the creases it leaves on my jackets are not very good for my suit.

Yes, I tend to agree. I couldn't find the 2967 on the Tumi website so don't know if they are still making it or not. I have always been curious where some of this "new" Tumi stuff comes from on E-Bay and have always been nervous about buying it on E-Bay. I asked Tumi that question a couple of years ago when I had to send back a suitcase for repair and they told me they have a couple of "outlet" stores where they send some of their "mistakes" and maybe people buy them there and try to sell them as "perfect" on e-Bay. They also said it will be marked inside the bag if it is a "second" and that those items don't carry the standard Tumi warranty. I think I will just buy from a retail store so if I have any problems I have some back up. I like the customer service that Tumi gives

Thanks to a suggestion from ScottC last year, this is my current international travel kit [photo taken in a friend's, friend's apartment recently while traveling]: Tumi Gen-4 [22020] international carry-on and Gen-4.4 [26171] computer brief.

This stuff wears like iron, holds everything I need and more, fits all international carry-on requirements, looks great [IMHO] and was a bargain for about $1200 [including Tumi toiletry kit].

The computer brief in particular holds up to a 15.4" laptop, all laptop accessories, several folders/briefs/pads/books/etc. as well as cell phone, pens, keys, etc. Like several of Tumi's carry-ons this computer brief zips/unzips in the front to expand or contract as needed.