For the past few weeks, I've had the opportunity to test out the Timbuk2 Rogue Laptop Backpack ($79) loaded with everything I need for a mobile office and more. Of course, there are things I like and things I don't. Let's dig in.
Design
The Timbuk2 Rogue is a rugged yet stylish, military-inspired backpack geared more toward commuters. This waterproof top-loading backpack features a lightly padded laptop compartment (fits up to 15" laptops), a large main compartment with a few zippered pockets inside, a small zippered compartment on the front, an external side pocket, and a built-in bottle opener on the strap. Do you need it? No. Is it a fun addition? Yes.
The exterior of the backpack sports some daisy-chained webbing that adds attachment points for carabiners, bike locks, or anything else you may not have room for in the main compartment.
Functionality
I've been using the Rogue for a few weeks now and generally lug around an older 15" MacBook Pro, iPad Air 2, jacket, digital camera, a Nintendo 3DS XL, and any chargers, cables, and extra batteries I need. Between the main compartment and the smaller pockets throughout the bag, I still have enough room for things I may pick up throughout my day.
The backpack's straps and back panel are very lightly padded, but still comfortable. A built in chest strap adds stability when needed and is easy to adjust. The only gripe I have is that the laptop compartment feels like it could benefit from extra protection, as the only padding comes from the inside of the backpack's back panel. The opposite side of the laptop compartment (the side that sections off the main compartment) is just an elastic mesh material.
Pros
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Great storage space
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Comfortable
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Looks great
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Lots of compartments
Cons:
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Laptop compartment lacks padding
Final Verdict
The Timbuk2 Rogue is a great value for the price. It can hold more than enough for the average commuter or student without breaking the bank, or the bag. Although the laptop compartment could use some more padding to be on the safe side, laptop owners shouldn't worry too much unless carrying hard objects in the main compartment. I always tend to see whether a product caters more toward fashion or function, but the Rogue brings both together in a rugged package. I definitely recommend it.
iPhone Life Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars.
