Laptops are essential to many of us. One of the main reasons laptops are so popular is that they're portable and can accompany us almost everywhere we go. It doesn't matter if you're using one of the best laptops, or just a cheap one — good protection is paramount. The best laptop cases and sleeves provide an additional layer of security against inevitable bumps and scrapes while adding some personal style to your daily load.

There are thousands of laptop cases and sleeves on the market, however. To save you the hassle of sorting through them all, we've picked out the best sleeves and cases that look great and will shield your Windows laptop, Chromebook, or MacBook from scuffs, spills, and falls. Whether you want a laptop case that's sleek and stylish, tough and durable, or one that combines elements of both, you'll find it here.

  • Source: Society6
    Credit: The Society6 laptop sleeve features a custom retro design.
    Society6 Laptop Sleeve
    Best custom style
  • Source: Amazon
    Credit: The Case Logic 17-Inch Laptop Bag pictured with shoulder strap.
    Case Logic 17-Inch Laptop Bag
    For bigger loads
  • Dell EcoLoop Pro Backpack
    Best backpack
  • Editor's choice
    Tomtoc 360° Protective Sleeve

    The Tomtoc 360° laptop sleeve features thick padding, especially around the edges, along with an easy-access top zipper. The external pocket is a little snug (as is usually the case with laptop sleeves), but it's big enough to hold slimmer laptop chargers and similar items. It's also available in a nice range of sizes to suit various laptops and tablets.

  • Best value
    Mosiso Laptop Sleeve

    The Mosiso laptop sleeve is a no-frills budget case that also happens to be water-resistant. It has a similar overall design to our top pick, featuring a top-opening zippered main compartment and a large front pocket. It's also available in a variety of sizes ranging from 12 to 17 inches, and there are a ton of color options.

  • Premium pick
    Kasper Maison Leather Sleeve

    Looking for a high-end way to carry your laptop? Designed in Sweden, this stylish folio by Kasper Maison is handmade from full-grain leather. It not only looks great but will last for years with proper care. The soft velvet lining also offers good laptop protection, while the magnetic flap closure provides easy access to the main compartment.

  • Best for MacBooks
    Casetify Clear Case for 14-inch MacBook Pro (M3, 2023)

    The Casetify Clear MacBook Case, made from hard plastic, is a sleek, tough, and eco-friendly protector for MacOS laptops. It's available for models dating back to 2010, so you're almost certain to find one that fits your MacBook. Its 1.8mm shell simply snaps onto the lid and frame of the laptop for complete protection, and the impact case upgrade adds rubber edge bumpers for even more durability.

  • Most durable
    Thule Gauntlet 3.0 Laptop Case

    The Thule Gauntlet, featuring a clamshell design with a padded interior and reinforced edge protection, is a sturdy hard-shell case that's ideal for those who frequently expose their laptops to harsher environments. Along with shielding laptops against bumps and falls, the Thule Gauntlet case is also water-resistant.

  • Best custom style
    Society6 Laptop Sleeve
    $41 $51 Save $10

    Society6 features many unique and stylish designs submitted by artists, allowing you to choose a laptop case with a custom flair. Who doesn't want a little extra oomph? The single-compartment case itself is rather simple otherwise, but it offers sufficient protection for your computer with a stiff polyester canvas construction and a YKK zipper.

  • For bigger loads
    Case Logic 17-Inch Laptop Bag

    If you have a bigger laptop or tend to carry more stuff than can fit in your standard laptop sleeve, this shoulder bag from Case Logic is what you need. Its large interior compartment has a strap to secure your computer and provides plenty of additional space for books, chargers, an iPad, and the like.

  • Best backpack
    Dell EcoLoop Pro Backpack

    This smart-looking backpack from Dell features a snug padded laptop sleeve along with a zippered main compartment that offers plenty of room for your other essential items. The protection is great, with the added bonus of a waterproof exterior. There's also an additional outside pocket, plus plenty of slots and pockets for pens, notebooks, cables, and other odds and ends.

How we chose the best laptop cases and sleeves

When choosing the best laptop cases and sleeves, protection is paramount. A good case should provide adequate padding and shock absorption, particularly around the edges, to safeguard your valuable device from accidental bumps and drops. The material quality is also crucial as it determines the case's durability and longevity. Additionally, convenience and portability should be considered; simple access and storage pockets make all the difference when it's time to transport tech.

The Tomtoc 360 laptop case, the Mosiso laptop sleeve, and the Kasper Maison leather laptop folio easily took our top three spots, covering a nice spread of styles and features. The Tomtoc 360 laptop sleeve stands out for its great protection with reinforced corners and a soft lining, as well as its water-resistant fabric and additional storage pocket. It's also available at a great price point. The even more affordable Mosiso laptop sleeve is also impressive, with its slim and lightweight design, excellent padding, and convenient top-loading zipper. Those looking for a stylish and higher-end pick should consider the Kasper Maison leather laptop folio. It blends style and functionality superbly with a handcrafted leather construction that will look great and last a long while.

Whether you prioritize rugged protection, elegant design, sleek portability, or some combination thereof, this list caters to many needs, preferences, and price points. Ultimately, the best laptop case or sleeve is the one that fits your specific requirements. It should ensure that your computer stays safe and secure and maybe even add a bit of flair to your everyday carry.