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Filed under: Portables, Reviews

TUAW Review: RadTech Sleevz and ScreenSavrz

If you're like me, then you always have your notebook with you. Personally, I don't like carrying those bulky looking bags, or sling packs; but I do want my notebook to be protected. I settled on using a sleeve case to help protect my friend MacBook Pro. In the past, I've used sleeves from MacCase and Tucano, but I jumped on the opportunity to review the RadTech Sleevz (which is now available in a MacBook Pro late 2008 flavor). In addition, I took a look at RadTech's ScreenSavrz, a piece of fabric that protects the screen from dirt and oil from the keyboard when the lid is closed.

Sleevz
At first look, the Sleevz sleeve doesn't seem that impressive, but upon further inspection, it is well built and durable. The sleeve is made out of RadTech's own "Optex Super80 fabric," which feels like a cross between suede and silk -- it has a really nice feel. When you place the notebook into the RadTech Sleevz, it form-fits to the computer. Because the fit is so snug, when you pull the computer out of the sleeve, it actually wipes the finger prints off.

I found that you can also use the sleeve as a screen cleaning cloth, and a way to clean the aluminum (or al-you-mini-um if you're Jonathan Ive) casing. Because the sleeve is washable, you don't have to worry about getting it dirty. According to the RadTech website, this sleeve is TSA-checkpoint friendly because of its design -- I did not, however, have the opportunity to test this out.

Overall, this sleeve is nicely designed, well-built, and extremely functional. However, this sleeve lacks much padding. While it would definitely protect your precious computer from any scratches or dings, it won't help if you drop it. The Sleevz are available in several colors from the RadTech website. They range between $24.95 and $29.95 U.S., and are available for a wide range of Apple notebooks, including the Axiotron Modbook.

ScreenSavrz
ScreenSavrz is a small piece of fabric (the same Optex Super80 fabric that the Sleevz are made of) that keeps dirt and oil from the keyboard/trackpad from messing up your screen. You simply place it over the keyboard/trackpad area, and close the lid. In addition, the fabric can be used to keep your screen and MacBook casing cleaned. If you are thinking about getting the Sleevz, then this is a must-have accessory to go along with it.

Just like the Sleevz, the ScreenSavrz comes in multiple colors, and fits multiple Apple notebook models. They are available from the RadTech website for around $16.95 (depending on the size you need).

Filed under: Accessories, iBook, PowerBook, Macbook Pro

Chic laptop bags for that new MacBook Pro

When it comes to toting around that new MacBook Pro, you want nothing but the best to hug and snuggle your new baby computer. For MacBook Pros (and 15" PowerBooks) I am going to have to point the ladies to alex grant bags. My favorite bag is the understated Skye in gunmetal gray (pictured here). The larger alex grant bags come with coordinating laptop sleeves (kind of like mini briefcases with handles) that fit inside. I love the styling on these bags and the carrying handles look long-commute-friendly, I just wish they came in a few more color choices. All of the agb collection is on sale until March 1st.

In a past post I've rounded up some of my favorite iBook sleeves, some of which may also be appropriate for 12" PowerBooks. With this combination, you can put a smaller laptop in a larger bag. Incidentally, I rock a 10" Fujitsu subcompact (running FreeBSD 6), so I ended up modding an existing subcompact sleeve to my liking. Ladies, and guys with ladies in their lives, feel free to comment on your favorite sleeve/bag combo for your mac laptop in the comments.

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