Timbuk2 Commute review: Timbuk2 Commute
The roomy and stylish Commute's waterproof, vinyl lining and padded laptop pocket will protect your laptop.
A casual messenger-style laptop bag, the $100 Timbuk2 Commute takes the protection of your laptop seriously. An impressive amount of padding, a waterproof vinyl interior, and a plethora of pockets make it a wonderful and attractive alternative to boring, briefcase-style laptop cases.
The Commute's generously padded laptop pocket is lined with corduroy and secured with a nylon-and-Velcro strap. A laptop with a 15-inch screen will fit easily into the pocket. The main section of the bag is roomy and pocket laden; two large zippered pockets can accommodate a plethora of accessories, such as power cords and external input devices. On top of that, four smaller pockets hold PDAs, cell phones, and writing utensils. The exterior of the bag features a padded pocket on the back, one pocket on each side, and three more pockets on the front. Both the bag's interior and the underside of the flap are lined in waterproof vinyl--a novel idea that we love. The Commute's shell is made of superstrong ballistic nylon, and the cover flap is secured by two clips and Velcro, so you're doubly protected against an accidental opening. The Commute's handle is padded, and the easily adjustable shoulder strap is removable.
The Good
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The Bottom Line
Timbuk2Â’s signature three-panel design comes in a variety of colors, and the Commute XL can handle a notebook with a 17-inch screen.