NOMATIC Laptop Bag Review: An 11L Work Briefcase That Expands to 13.5L

Most work bags are either a stiff leather briefcase or a backpack that looks like a school bag. The NOMATIC Laptop Bag sits in between: a slim briefcase shape with technical fabric, built for a 16-inch laptop and a long day. It costs $169.99. This is our read of NOMATIC's own product page, not a carry test.

What it is

The bag is 15.5 inches wide, 11.5 inches tall and 3.5 inches deep, and it weighs about 2 lbs. A zipper expands the depth to 5.25 inches, taking capacity from 11L to 13.5L. The exterior is water-resistant nylon and polyester with coated YKK zippers, and the interior is polyester with padded PU foam. It comes with handles and a shoulder strap.

How it works day to day

NOMATIC's photos show a full-width organizer panel inside, an external pocket that holds a water bottle, and a quick-grab pocket under the handles that takes a phone. The shape keeps the laptop upright and flat, which helps when you pull it out at security or in a meeting room.

Who it is for

It suits the man who dresses smart-casual for the office and wants a bag that does not look like gym gear. Navy goes with almost everything in our work capsule wardrobe and with business casual outfits. If you are packing for a trip, pair it with a carry-on like the NOMATIC Method and read our guide on how to pack a carry-on. More in our travel section.

The catch

It is nylon, so it looks technical rather than formal. If your dress code needs leather, this is not it. Expanded, the bag is almost two inches deeper, which matters on a crowded train. And it is a single main compartment, so very organized people may want more dividers. Colors are navy, black and olive.

How to start

Pick navy or black if your wardrobe is mostly neutrals. Check NOMATIC's page for stock before you decide.