Kensington Contour Pro 17" Screen Notebook Case Review (pics)

by Andrew Johnson, Alaska USA

The Kensington Contour Pro 17" is a large shoulder type laptop bag for those of us who just had to buy the biggest laptop available.  It is designed with comfort and versatility in mind, and it also happens to be built from high quality materials.  One great but very simple feature is the removable padded notebook sleeve with its own handle.  It's perfect for short trips when all you need is the notebook, but want some level of protection.

Features and Specifications (adapted from Kensington):

• SnugFit sleeve suspends and wraps laptop in snug protection
• Contour panel and weight distribution system reduce shoulder fatigue by 35%
• Ergonomic handles stay together and evenly distribute weight
• Shock-absorbing, contour shoulder strap is secure and comfortable
• Convenient compartment for on-the-go access to aircraft tickets, et al
• 1680 Denier Ballistic nylon protects against abrasions, punctures, and tears
• Front pockets laid out for easy organization and access
• Padded rear compartment keeps peripherals from poking through
• Lifetime warranty

Dimensions:

Exterior Dimension 17.5"L X 13.0"H X 8.5"W
Computer compartment 16.4"L X 11.5"H X 2.0"W  
Weight:  4.35 pounds

Design: 

As the name suggests, the Contour has a curved side to fit comfortably against your body.  In practice, this works well but it nothing revolutionary.  Kensington designed the Contour to snugly fit multiple sizes of notebooks.  Inside the main zippered notebook compartment is a removable padded notebook sleeve, which has a Velcro attached, removable liner to snugly fit smaller notebooks.

Notebook sleeve and bag pictured seperately, the sleeve can be used by itself if you want to go with a lightweight carry bag (view larger image)

I really like the removable notebook sleeve, which has its own handle.  This is one of my favorite features because I often don't really need the power brick, mouse, accessories, etc.  I just slide out the notebook sleeve and go lightweight while still protecting my notebook.

Kensington Contour Pro 17" notebook case sleeve (view larger image)

Next to the notebook compartment is another large zippered compartment which is large enough to actually store another notebook.  On the front of the bag is the accessory pocket which zips open to reveal plenty of space for a power brick, mouse, pens, cell phone, and more.  There is also an easy to access small zippered pocket for plane tickets or passports.

Zippered pocket on the front of the Kensington case (view larger image)

The curved rear of the bag zips open to reveal more pouches and storage inside.  This big bag could really be used as an overnight travel bag for light packers.

Workmanship:

The Contour is commendably overbuilt, with big sturdy zippers, thick materials and double stitched seams.  It will probably outlast any notebook, and it should, with a lifetime warranty.  The metal pieces are thick and operate smoothly.  The handles are rubbery plastic that bends instead of breaks under pressure.  The shoulder strap is sturdy with a comfortable elastic and rubberized pad that won't slip off your shoulder.
 
Looks:

The Kensington Contour Pro 17", as well as the whole line, has a smart, stylish look.  It's conservative enough to be at home in a meeting, in the classroom, or on the road.  The contour is somewhat rigid and keeps its shape.  It will also stand up on its own.

(view larger image)

Conclusion:

The Kensington Contour is a fine bag.  It is definitely on the large side, but not too heavy for its size.  It has tons of room, or as an alternative the included notebook sleeve can be removed and used alone since it has its own handle and zipper.  The Contour is also very comfortable, especially for those who carry heavy weight for long periods of time.  On top of all this, it's a great value because it includes the notebook sleeve and all the pockets you'll need.

Pricing and Availability