ECBC has a new Laptop Tote, the B7301 that is very impressive. It's very lightweight, made from ballistic nylon, and will hold a 13-inch MacBook Pro or either the 11-inch or 13-inch version of the MacBook Air. There are two full zipped sections inside, a zipped padded pocket on the outside for an iPad or iPad mini, and an unusual outside enclosure that can hold the shoulder strap out of the way when not in use. The case is water resistant. There is also a short strap that can slip over the end of most luggage trolly handles for ease of transport when traveling. The bag carries a three year, limited warranty.
Dart Laptop Tote B7301 in black
The bag measures 14.25 x 10.8 x 3.1-in (36.2 x 27.4 x 7.9-cm). The shoulder strap is adjustable and can be tucked completely out of the way in a special outside section that also provides extra shock protection for the computer. It is available in black or light gray. Both colors have red stitching trim.
Dart Laptop Tote B7301 in gray
The section designed to hold the computer is fleece lined and contains a removable modular foam block that can be removed to accommodate different laptop sizes.
The section designed for accessories has special pockets for tickets, chargers, pens, pencils, stylus, and a fleeced lined eyeglass pocket. This section is one inch wide.
View of second section of case
And finally, the zippered pocket intended for an iPad will easily hold an iPad without a case, with a very thin case, or an Apple Smart Cover.
Using the product
The first thing I noticed about this case was how nice it looks. The second was how very lightweight it is while still being so sturdy. Although my 13-in MacBook Pro fits perfectly and is easy to insert and remove, I still think it is an exceptional design concept to include the removable modular foam block which makes the case appropriate for other size computers.
The second section has a number of options that should be useful to students or business people, allowing them to have the items they need with them, when they need them. As someone who only wears glasses to read, I found the lined glasses pocket to be a nice touch.
I also discovered that the second section can be used to carry the iPad should the user wish to use a more substantial case than just a Smart Cover. For instance the Typi Folio Case from IPEVO. This case comes with a built in keyboard and measures a little over an inch in width. I tried putting it in the second section and discovered I could carry it easily, putting other items in the iPad zipped pocked.
Dart Laptop Tote holding the Typi Folio iPad case
Do I recommend it?
I do. It is a nice looking, well designed and well made professional case with a number of design extras.