Laptop bag review: Kensington Contour (Backpack Style)
Everybody who knows me well will agree that I am a guy who is “all about the equipment“. I like having everything that I need for my work, be it a good digital camera, a solid laptop, a good desktop computer or office space. The same applies to laptop bags. I had been searching around for an affordable, solid laptop bag that would carry everything an academic geek like me needs to carry. Unfortunately, I hadn’t found anything suitable for less than $100 CND a pop. Budget and all, you know.
Enter the Kensington Contour Model K62238 laptop bag (I call it the Backpack Style since I couldn’t find any other differentiating element that would help me distinguish it from the model K62340, which is a portfolio style). The Kensington Contour K62238 retails in the US for $ 69.99, but I have to admit that I got a really good deal at Future Shop (it was on sale). I would probably have still paid the $ 69.99, because of the Contour adjustable lumbar support panel, which is aimed at reducing fatigue by shifting weight onto the hips.
Remember that I’m 5’11 tall and that, in addition to my 17″ laptop (I know, a bit of a mamooth but I like my 17″ for all the writing I do), I carry around a lot of books, journal articles, etc. Add my iPod, wireless mouse, sunglasses, cell phone, laptop cables and laptop security lock, and I really need a good size laptop bag. That’s what really sold me on the Kensington Contour. The adjustable lumbar support rocks.
The side pockets allow me to carry my water bottle, my cell (for easy reach), and both the security lock and the laptop power cables fit in the side pockets (with zippers). The laptop compartment is very well padded and fits perfectly the 17″ laptop. For the first time since I got the laptop, I feel really safe about carrying it around. I should definitely pass the word on to my friend Kate Trgovac who actually has a full website where she reviews laptop bags! I would strongly endorse the Kensington Contour, particularly if you carry a lot of books (like me, academic geek) in your backpack.
Disclosure: I reviewed this laptop bag as I thought it would benefit my readers. I paid for the laptop bag myself. I am not paid to write the review. In any review I write, I retain editorial control at all times. Should you have any questions/concern feel free to contact me via e-mail through my contact form.
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I had that same bag actually, maybe a slightly different earlier version; great build quality, comfy and pockets in all the right places. Held up for four years of school and two years of RL.
Replaced with a MEC bag only because it got stolen (later recovered).
Thanks for the review. Was checking around for a computer backpack for my son’s laptop. They get expensive for the 17″ $70 -$100+. I saw this one in Future Shop $29.99 (sale) and was just checking for comments and product reviews. It looks like we’ve found the one we want.
@ Greg – I *love* this bag. I can’t recommend it enough.
@ Angela – I am not sure how tall your son is, but I can tell you that it will definitely fit anyone over 5’6 very comfortably. I’m 5’11. I am betting it will fit even someone 6’3 (would have to test, though)
Incredibly comfortable and has room for everything.
One feature I forgot to add in the review is a small inside pocket that fits your iPod, so you can actually listen to music and keep your iPod inside your backpack so you don’t have to worry it may get broken or stolen or lost.
It is very durable and comportable bag. I got one,a gift of a friend. I want to buy 2 units. Where and how can I purchase? Thanks.
Brandy