Prior to learning about MZ Wallace, I used to think all laptop backpacks looked heavy-duty and too tech-y for my liking. Then December 2020 came around, and I finally invested in my first-ever backpack from the brand (read my story HERE). I fell in love with their sleek, lightweight quilted designs. In the past few years, the brand has evolved to incorporate newer styles and colors. As someone who has collected quite a few designs, I wanted to compare them in this MZ Wallace backpack review. These are some of the best laptop backpacks that will guarantee you compliments in the office, airport, and beyond!
Disclosure: This post makes use of affiliate links, which may result in a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
MZ Wallace Backpack Review: Comparison of Top Styles
As the MZ Wallace brand has grown, I love that the brand has expanded into newer styles while still remaining true to their value. Not only are they NYC-based (where I am from), but they also follow the motto: Designed to Do More. MZ Wallace bags are not just stylish and elevated, but they are always multi-use and functional. In this comparison review, I share my thoughts on both their iconic and newer styles:
MZ Wallace Metro Backpack Deluxe
The MZ Wallace Metro Backpack Deluxe is one of the the brand’s most evergreen styles. It is comfortably designed with padded straps, fits a 15″ laptop, and is travel-friendly with a luggage sleeve.
- What I Love: One of the roomiest laptop backpacks MZ Wallace carries (16.5″ height). Easy to find everything you need due to simple compartments. Two side slots – fits water bottle.
- Things to Consider: More pliable than the Pocket Metro Backpack, so I find it to can lose shape easily when overpacked.
Pocket Metro Backpack
The Pocket Metro Backpack is one of the brand’s newer designs that launched this year. Consider it a slightly smaller version of the Metro Deluxe backpack, with more pockets! Even so, this style still fits a 15″ laptop and shares the same travel-friendly features.
- What I Love: Side pockets are zippered. Not only are these pockets convenient, but they also give more structure to the backpack so it doesn’t lose shape was easily.
- Things to Consider: New release, so colors are limited. As of writing this post, the backpack is still not yet available in Dawn, which is their classic navy color. The front pocket is also less deep than the Metro Deluxe Backpack.
Note: Both the Pocket Metro Backpack and Metro Deluxe Backpack have padded straps that are adjustable along the nylon portion. However, the adjustable length is more limited compared to the Metro Convertible Backpack (below), where the full strap is nylon.
Metro Convertible Backpack
The Metro Convertible Backpack is a relatively new style that came out last year. In my opinion, its design is most unique because it also can be carried as a top-handle tote.
- What I Love: Stylish and unique convertible design that I have yet to find anywhere else!
- Things to Consider: The straps are not padded, which can cause uncomfortable chafing. The drawstring also creates a ‘narrowing’ look at the top, and limits what you can fit inside. Compared to the other two bags, this one can only fit a 13″ laptop.
- (Color I am wearing is old – Atmosphere)
Note: MZ Wallace has since come out with a new Utility Backpack which has a similar top handle design to this convertible style. However, the straps are padded and it can be worn as a crossbody too. If you are looking to carry more items, this style might be a better fit.
Which Laptop Backpack Best Suits Your Needs?
The MZ Wallace Pocket Metro backpack is my most-worn design, and that isn’t just because it is the newest bag I own. I love that it still fits up to a 15″ laptop, but feels like an improved version of the Metro Deluxe.
The design feels both spacious and petite, and remains lightweight and comfortable. That said, if you want something more roomier with simpler compartments, the Metro Deluxe is my runner-up.
As for the Metro Convertible Backpack, I still wear it often to the office and it is the most ‘fashionable’ option of the bunch. However, I recommend styling it with an outfit that doesn’t expose your shoulders as the straps can get uncomfortable.
Shop the Total MZ Wallace Backpack Collection Here
Backpack Links: Style 1 | Style 2 | Style 3 | Style 4 | Style 5 | Style 6 | Style 7
Other MZ Wallace Reviews You Don’t Want to Miss
If you’re thinking of getting their crossbody or tote bags, here are some additional reviews I’ve written that you won’t want to miss:
- Pippa Crossbody: One of my favorite styles for traveling, and most worn bag this year!
- Metro Tote: A classic design that I always carry to the airport as my ‘personal’ item.
