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The Brain Cell

About.com Rating fourhalf out of Five

From Catherine Roseberry, for About.com

Mesh side pocket of the Brain Cell

Mesh side pocket of the Brain Cell

Catherine Roseberry

The Bottom Line

When additional security and protection for your laptop is required, the Brain Cell will provide mobile workers with just that. Whether you carry it on it's own or inside another of Tom Bihn's bags such as the Empire Builder, you will know that your laptop is safe while traveling. Excellent customer service tied with an excellent product make this a great laptop accessory for any mobile worker. If you aren't certain about which size, somone from Tom Bihn will help guide you with your decision.
Pros
  • Can be used on its own
  • Very sturdy and compact protection
  • Size specific to fit your laptop
Cons
  • Some older laptop models may not fit

Description

  • Hard plastic siding
  • Thick, soft foam padding
  • Suspension system to cradle laptop - must be carried in the horizontal format
  • Comfortable easy grip carrying handles or you can add shoulder straps such as the Terra Grip
  • Exterior mesh pocket that snaps closed
  • Top seals with Aplix strips (which are longer-lasting than Velcro)

Guide Review - The Brain Cell

I like the fact that the Brain Cell can be carried on its own, using just the carrying straps or with the addition of the Terra Grip strap. The Brain Cell also closes securely and snugly, ensuring that my laptop would not fall out or get jostled inside the Brain Cell.

There are times when I need only my laptop with a few files and carrying a larger laptop bag is just not necessary. It's very convenient to stash the laptop inside and move from one location to another. With the Brain Cell you have protection against bumps and jostles without additional size or weight to carry.

Well constructed and very durable the Brain Cell will certainly last for any mobile worker. By choosing the size of the Brain Cell specific to laptop model and size, you ensure that your laptop is going to be secure. Additionally, you have a choice of colours so that you can make the Brain Cell more personalized to suit your personality.

While a shoulder strap isn't included and not always required, the Terra Grip shoulder strap I was provided with for review worked and felt great. It prevented the bag from slipping off my shoulder, even when moving quickly or going up/down stairs. If your work travels include a lot of walking, it's a good idea to invest in a shoulder strap for your Brain Cell.

The Brain Cell latches securely inside other Tom Bihn bags such as the Empire Builder. Some Tom Bihn bags only accept certain Brain Cell sizes, so make sure if ordering an additional bag, your Brain Cell will fit.

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