TechCast Reviews

20th January 2007

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Marware have released a deluxe version of the Sportfolio to fit both the MacBook and MacBook Pro. So what’s so ‘deluxe’ about this case? Well, read on to find out why this is one of the best cases for portable Mac and iPod owners.

The case itself still retains the core values that the designers originally envisioned for the original Sportfolio case. They wanted to create a case that was both lightweight and compact in nature with the ability to store more than just your notebook. The original Sportfolio was almost as small as a sleeve yet amazingly they managed to put a divider in the main compartment as well as a front and back pouch. This allowed you to store documents and other bits and pieces that you might want to take with you on your travels.

The new Deluxe Sportfolio from Marware retains the front and back pouch as well as a spacious middle compartment. Similar to the original in foot print size, the deluxe model now features a second middle compartment that allows storage for your power adapter, Apple remote and mouse or camera or iPod. Inside this compartment is also another zipper compartment.

The neoprene exterior is lined with a plastic shell on the inside, making it good for protection but also flexible in that it stretches. The Sportfolio Deluxe is ideal for carrying the essential accessories when you’re on the move.

The mini pouches for the different peripherals that you might want to take with you are clearly labeled. Now, this isn’t anything new in a laptop case, but what I did find to be quite cool is the ability to put your iPod in the centre pouch and feed your headphones straight through the case. There is a custom-built valve hole for you to feed your headphone cable through, so you can listen to your iPod whilst it sits comfortably inside your case.

Included in the package is the detachable shoulder strap with a cushioned pad for your shoulder. You also get the built-on carrying handles, so you got the choice of how to carry the case. One issue I found with the shoulder strap as I used it more is the squeaking noise that the clips made when they rubbed against the attachment.

The same quality finish that I always find on Marware products is yet again found on the Sportfolio. However, through best part of three months of using this case, one unexpected thing did go wrong. One of the zipper handles made out of a rubbery plastic broke off. I think this is probably a one off since I then tried bending another zipper handle but they didn’t break off. What I would suggest in future is to use normal metal zippers instead of these plastic rubber ones.

Apart from that, this neoprene case with the orca skin front pocket has done an excellent job in carting around my 15.4-inch MacBook Pro alongside all the documents that I carry to and from Uni most days. The clever storage compartment means I now have a suitable place for the Apple Remote and the power adapter cables, as well as room for my iPod.

At approximately £40, the Marware Sportfolio Deluxe case represents good value but borders on expensive. It is ideal for those who want a bit more room than what is offered in the original Sportfolio, yet retains a sturdy and protective design which will hold your notebook as well as your other bits and pieces.

The case is available in Blue and Black fronts, as well as in a multitude of sizes to fit all current generation portable Macs, it’s the best soft case I’ve ever used and I dare challenge any other manufacturer to beat the Marware Sportfolio Deluxe for the price tag that is attached to it.

Having gotten comfortable in using this case, this now replaces my Sportfolio as my daily transporter for my work and my portable Mac.