It’s made from durable Terylene and has a water-resistant lining. The aforementioned versatility comes through with the 10 pocket options, including one main zipper, two side mesh pockets, two small pockets, and two pen loops. It fits up to a 17” laptop which is a definite bonus—laptops are only growing larger and this bag secures the laptop and also contains a lock. It has a nice overall design and the larger zippers are convenient. The lower price point is attractive so this is definitely budget-friendly.

Again, this is the least tactical of the group as far as aesthetics. It has little character and is a bit generic in the looks department, despite the warm red color that makes this bag pop. The superfluous buckles and straps might make it less appealing visually, and it is a long bag—the larger, lengthier design means this bag might not be for everyone.

This bag definitely has a resilient, tactical look and is built like a champ. Its rugged construction, which includes a molle webbing throughout the bag, has PVC lining which reinforces the strength of the bag. Customization is possible with the variety of pockets and pouches and the laptop sleeve is padded. In total there are twelve storage compartments so anyone who needs to carry anything in the field is set. There is also strap storage and contoured shoulders on said straps.

The front flap Velcro design and construction might not be for everyone either, and the bag does trend on the “smallish” end of the design spectrum. Again, the “bag” look and tactical application mean this is not a “trendy” bag or messenger-style design, and this is certainly not the choice for school or the office. The best option if you’re looking for a true field bag. Moderate price point could also be seen as a negative, especially if you choose the colored bags.

Waterproof. Fair price for a lightweight, small bag. Again, this bag looks cool and seems to have the look of some sweet military applications. Molle design is legit and like its competitors, the price point only remains on the standard bag, if you choose different colors or more serviceable options the price goes up a bit. If you’re carrying mobile devices or smaller tablets than this is your best choice.

Not all bags are created equal and there are more downsides to this model than the other bags on the list, despite looking badass. Small. The zippers are low quality and the side pouches are too small. Likewise, the water pouch is barely large enough to fit one bottle of water, snugly. The shoulder straps are only 1.5” in width and to be frank, it is not the best choice for laptop storage, holding devices up to 14” only.

Wide shoulder straps and a tough scratch-resistant exterior. It’s comfortable, which is sometimes all it takes for some consumers. This is a bag you could run or climb with no problem. Strong, durable construction and due to the size and model it has decent weight distribution which might appear awkward, but it works. It also has an appealing look and is no doubt a popular choice for the camping or outdoorsy set. Practical and tactical and budget friendly.

Some of the parts and accessories are not trustworthy. The zippers and nylon buckles are weak and seem far too fragile and prone to breakage. I could foresee some of the smaller moveable parts needing to be replaced sooner than later. The phone and mobile device pouches are not ideal—the phone pouch is just 4.5” and the mobile device pouch is only up to 10” so essentially, you won’t be storing or carrying any laptop beyond a netbook or larger model iPad.

As mentioned, this is the most “professional” of the military, tactical style bags discussed here. Fabric and smaller parts are of the highest quality, including Dupont fabric protection and YKK zippers, both of which are the best in the business and are well-known for their versatile durability and all-weather survivability. PALS webbing on top of that only reinforces the argument that this is your best bet. UTX-Flex buckles are yet even more reason to consider this, as is the larger laptop pocket, up to 15.6”. There’s even a useful pouch on top of the main enclosure flap so no space is wasted on this bag. Durable padded back and padded straps.

The price point is the biggest drawback but this is clearly offset by what is most assuredly a lifetime purchase. This is a bag for those on a large budget. There are dozens of loops and Velcro exteriors which some may find superfluous and less aesthetically pleasing.