Hi everybody! I know this topic was already dis

[AlexC]

Hi everybody!
I know this topic was already discussed several times, and after extensive search I found a couple of topics, but it looks like there is a lot of confusion and contradictions.
I'd like to buy a case/portfolio which would be:
1) light
2) small
3) fit Tecra M4 very well
4) have very small space for a couple of CDs and maybe a thin A4 textbook
5) be sturdy and good protection for the tablet
6) have handles
7) have a shoulder strap
8) the case should be designed the way, that you can carry the tablet in slate mode around and can use it anytime

Based on several topics I can say there might be a couple of options:
Toshiba 3-in-1 leather portfolio
IT Case
Targus portfolio
So, did anybody use any of those? and what was your personal experience?
by the way, I know Targus has some kind of portfolio for M200, do they also have anything for the bigger tecra?
Thanks
Any help would be appreciated

[Kalakala]

Alex,

I've got the Toshiba 3-in-1 leather portfolio; I've had it and my M4 for about 3 days.

This portfolio meets almost all your requirements, and while it's not perfect, it does seem pretty good.

It's fairly light and small (although not quite as small/tight a fit as I had hoped). It does fit the M4 Tecra well. There's one outside pocket big enough to hold a pad/paper/not-too-thick book (however, the outside pocket does not close...it also adds some bulk, and I would probably have liked it better without the pocket). It's certainly sturdy enough, has a nice, soft interior so the tablet won't get scratched. It has handles that retract/slide in to the case - a nice touch.

It does not have a shoulder strap, nor attachment points for one. Too bad, I was hoping for this, too. I suspect if you took it to a good leather shop, they could probably add a couple of D-rings at the corners so you could attach a strap. I might try that sometime.

Inside, there are elastic straps to hold the Tecra in place. In theory, you can work with the tablet in the case, either in laptop mode, or in tablet mode. Practically....I have a hard time imagining myself actually using it in tablet mode in the case. The M4 is heavy and bulky enough already, and the case only makes it more so.

I know nothing about the T Case or Targus portfolio - and would be interested in hearing more about them.

Anyway, overall the Toshiba leather portfolio seems pretty good. I'd like it better if it were a bit more minimalist, but it seems reasonable enough to me so far. Hope that helps.

[DonPablo50]

I've been looking at the Victoronix Acropolis. Have you seen this one?
It's messenger style, or you can attach the included backpack strap. It has a fold out portfolio and the slip case for the laptop is semi-hard so you can put in there in slate mode and still be protected. I found them at bag n' baggage for $250. I haven't looked online much.

I think you should check that one out. The only thing is, it's not slim--it's not big either. I'm definitely getting that one. It's pretty cool!

[AlexC]

Thanks Kalakala!
Very informative answer, I guess I will go ahead and order the Toshiba 3-in-1 portfolio- I think it's the closest to my needs for the good price
Victorinox looks like a regular slip case for 250$ which is way too much and doesn't quite fit my criteria
but thanks for response

[AlexC]

I just bought the toshiba 3-1 portfolio. So far I like it - the reason I bought it was to completely get rid of the backpack which I regularly use. For example now I can just take the portfolio and tablet to a Starbucks or Borders book store and just relax and work on my pdfs or write in word for my study.
The only concern - it has no carrying strap - which is a minor problem and
I am concerned with its potential overheating when in full AC mode? what's your experience on it Kalakala?
So far I manually switched it into normal mode using Toshiba power management utility when connected to AC - doesn't heat up so far. I know some other people ( like TechProf make holes in the portfolio to increase air circulation ( I assume it is in the bottom ( one side of the portfolio ) and others seem to use a coolpad from Targus - not sure one can use it with the portfolio ).
Your ideas?