Best hardshell case for new MacBook Pro 13 inch - opinions?

Question

Best hardshell case for new MacBook Pro 13 inch - opinions?

Got the new pro back in July. While I use the incase sleeve to protect my laptop when transporting it around in my bag, I feel like I need more protection (I DJ a lot and always get worried about people touching my computer).

Last couple days I have done a lot of research on a hardshell case. Right now, I am trying to decide between the Speck SeeThru Satin and the new Incase hardshell. Apparently the Incase shell designed for the 13 inch pro is brand new. I know that both of these cases probably do an equivalent job at protecting the surface of the laptop, but wanted to hear some opinions before shelving out the 40-50 dollars for one. Only reason I am leaning towards the Incase is because I have been very happy with the quality of their products I use.

I know there are a lot of forum links discussing the best hardshell, but would like to get some more input. Please reply with any relevant info.

Product links for reference
Incase: http://www.goincase.com/products/detail/hardshell-case-cl57368-r
Speck: http://www.speckproducts.com/products/seethru-satin/macbook-pro-13-aluminum-blac k-keys/163

MacBook Pro, Mac OS X (10.6.1)

Posted on Oct 12, 2009 10:18 AM

Reply

Answer 1

OnLnAgent

Level 1

135 points

Oct 12, 2009 10:44 AM in response to Joseph Skarzynski

Having used a Speck case let me tell you about my experiences with it. The first one I received did not fit right and I ended up taking it back and exchanging it. The second one fit better at first but the tabs holding it on are thin/weak and wear out too fast. Also the heat from the MacBooks can get the cases soft enough to warp. You may have better luck with yours but I wanted to let you know of my personal experience with them.

I replaced my Spek with a Vyper M3 case from Booq and love it.

Reply

Answer 2

BevL

Level 1

55 points

Oct 12, 2009 2:07 PM in response to Joseph Skarzynski

I have the Incase for my 15" MBP and love it. It has a larger ventilation area on the bottom than the Speck and that's why I went with it. Not sure how much of a difference it makes since the battery is completely inclosed. But I love it anyway.

Reply

Answer 3

LukeD

Level 4

3,153 points

Oct 13, 2009 9:46 AM in response to Joseph Skarzynski

Having tried every brand out there, I can honestly say that Booq is one of the best!

http://www.booq.com

I highly recommend their Vyper M3 sleeve too!

Good luck!

Reply

Answer 4

Oct 15, 2009 12:02 PM in response to Joseph Skarzynski

Any other opinions?

Sorry for the bump

Reply

Answer 5

JoeyR

Level 6

8,305 points

Oct 15, 2009 1:07 PM in response to Joseph Skarzynski

I've been using Speck hard covers for a number of years (going back to my first MacBook in late 2006). I have since used them on a SR MB Pro and most recently, a black satin one on my new 13" MB Pro. I have never had an issue with any of them becoming unusually flexible due to heat nor have I had tabs snap off on any of them. I would imagine it could be possible to snap the tab if you're not careful removing it. The Vyper is a nice sleeve... but it doesn't protect your notebook during the time when it's most likely to need it... when you're actually using it. That's one reason I like the hard covers. It's also nice when I have it on my desk at home... which is pretty cramped. I don't have to worry about scratching my notebook if I have to temporarily lay something on it (my cell, usb flash drives... external hard drives... etc).

Reply

Answer 6

l l

Level 2

210 points

Oct 15, 2009 3:25 PM in response to Joseph Skarzynski

I have the Incase hard cover, and I am very happy with it. It does add weight to your laptop, though. However, if protection is what you want, it does an excellent job. By the way, some people complain about a loud click when you open it. My cover clicked too at the beginning, but please know that the clear disappears with use. Also, I've heard comments about not being able to open the Mac beyond 90 degrees. That too is only at the beginning. I guess the case needs a little "wear," just like a pair of new somewhat stiff leather shoes. 🙂 Hope this helps.

Reply