Timbuk2 Original Commute Laptop Bag Review

Overall Impressions:

I needed a computer bag to use when I wasn’t carrying any camera gear. The problem with my prior bags was that they were so big that sometimes my computer would bounce off door frames as I walked through them and I didn’t like their huge size. Upon opening the Timbuk2 Original Commute, I could have sworn that it was way too small for my 15″ MacBook Pro. Probably because it was a bit squashed from shipping and because I had used a large Gregory Messenger Bag and a Larger Timbuk2 messenger bag in the past. So the first thing I did was to see if the MacBook Pro would fit. It fit perfectly.

The Laptop Compartment:

The most important thing about any laptop bag is that it protects the computer. The Timbuk2 Original Commute has a nice think padded slot at the rear of the interior section of bag for this. The laptop compartment is lined with fluffy corduroy and has a strap at the top to hold the laptop in this compartment.

The Inside:

The inside of the Original Commute will “expand out” about 4-6 inches, which allows enough space for folders, thin books, computer accessories, etc. You’ll also find a organizer that has your typical places for pens, pencils, checkbooks, etc. The inside is lined with a grey nylon and is well designed.

The Outside:

The outside of the bag is made of waxed cotton, which I especially like the look and feel of. It is unique among computer bags at the moment. Waxed cotton has the same look as those “Outback” style coats that cowboys wear. Ballistic Nylon is on the bottom and in high stress areas. In addition to the laptop compartment, there is another padded compartment which is accessible from the outside, in the back of the bag. The pad provides structure to the bag and additional protection for the laptop. It also feels a little better when up against the body than the bags that don’t have it.

Several pockets complete the outside of the bag. There are two expandable pockets on the sides for things like umbrellas, and two under the bag’s flap for cell phones, ipods, wallet, keys, etc.

The waxed cotton is not waterproof, but it will shed some water. I doubt you’d be able to soak the bag through unless you were really trying. You’ll have a long way to go before you hit your computer and the inside is lined with nylon. If you plan on using the bag frequently in downpours, you might want to look at a different model.

At first, I had the black Original Commute. I liked it, but I decided I didn’t want the same color bag that 90% of the people with laptops had. I currently have the Olive / Dark Olive / Olive Original Commute, which is relatively unique, and for which I regularly receive compliments. Before ordering I was worried the color might resemble and Army green color, but it doesn’t. The Timbuk2 Original Commute Laptop bags also comes in a very attractive Tan / Brown / Tan color. The only size available is medium. It will not fit a 17″ macbook pro.

The Straps:

The handle is reinforced and padded (I prefer laptop bags with handles). The shoulder strap is substantial and has a shoulder pad which I really like because the strap moves freely through it. Most of the hardware is metal and reticulates. The velcro is beefy (and loud).

PixelsAndSuch Photo Review Conclusions:

It is easy to tell that the people at Timbuk2 really loved designing this bag. It seems to be one of those throwback items that looks hip but has been updated for the functionality of today’s world. This bag is easy to use, feels good while carrying, is compact, and looks great. The Timbuk2 Original Commute is laid back, meaning even if you purchased the black one, you may not want to take it to a stockholder meeting on Wall Street. But if your that kind of person, you’re probably not reading this review anyway. It’s not really a good match, in my opinion, for somebody who wears a black suit and tie to work every day (but it would work fine).

The Timbuk2 Original Commute is perfect if you need a laptop bag that will fit a 15 inch MacBook Pro, with enough room to carry your basic office folders, a notebook or two, computer accessories, and personal items. This isn’t a suitcase-sized messenger bag, so if you planning on carrying your workout gear, shoes, etc in it, you should look at a larger sized bag.

This bag certainly isn’t the cheapest laptop bag out there, although you can find competitive prices on it. I have seen discounts at various stores. I have not been able to do an Original Commute vs. Commute or an Original Commute vs. Laptop Messenger comparison because I haven’t had a Timbuk2 Commute or Laptop Messenger bag come through my studio yet.

(Although this a PixelsAndSuch.com Photo Review of the Timbuk2 Original Commute Laptop Computer Bag, many things in this review apply to other Timbuk2 bags, such as the Commute and Laptop Messenger). Our review policies are here.

Tags: commute review, computer case, laptop bag, original commute, timbuk2