STM Prime 13-inch laptop backpack review
STM Velocity Prime laptop backpack
£56Pros
- Compact
- Looks great
- Loads of storage
- Protects your tech
Cons
- More padding on the straps would be nice
I love my STM Drifter backpack and when my girlfriend said that she was looking for something similar my thoughts, of course, turned to STM’s Prime.
At the moment my other half either takes just her laptop sleeve and a decent-sized shoulder bag or her trusty wheeled backpack. The thing is there are occasions where she either over-packs her shoulder bag or under-utilises the wheeled pack.
The Prime seemed a perfect fit for those in-between moments.
The STM Prime backpack is from the Australian company’s 2016 Velocity collection.
STM Prime design
I have become accustomed to my Drifter’s dimensions and thought it rather compact. The Prime is even more so.
The ‘Frost Grey’ pack I was sent to review is a mere 16.5-inches tall and just a just over 10-inches wide.
As with the other STM products I have seen, this backpack doesn’t scream “laptop bag!” either. This pack would equally be at home on the gym run or heading to the beach.
Just because it’s small does not mean that it is lacking in storage space or neat organisation ideas.
Inside you will find a large padded sleeve for holding laptops up to 13-inches, as well as a number of smaller sections. These will easily take a tablet, notebooks and that kind of thing.
I really like the addition of STM’s ‘slingtech’ protection. This suspends the pocket in the middle of the bag so it does not hit the floor when you put the bag down.
Added corner padding also mean the devices inside are well protected.
This will all be useful as my test subject isn’t renowned for her soft-touch when it comes to tech.
There are a couple of internal pockets which lend themselves perfectly to chargers, cables and other accessories. The main cavity has room for a few items — a large book or, perhaps, some overnight clothing and bits.
On the outside you have some handy quick access pockets. There’s a zipped, soft, fleece-lined pocket which is handy for shades or your mobile phone.
You get the standard elasticated side pockets too which are great for a water bottle and umbrella.
STM Prime performance
The Prime has done very well in its tests. Not only is it comfortable to wear, it has proved that having two shoulder straps will take stress off the user’s shoulders and back.
Even on those times where my girlfriend was tempted just to take her laptop sleeve and shoulder bag, she would opt for the Prime.
The back air channels have also proved their worth during the stickier days we have had here in the capital recently.
Having that gap between your back and the bag really does make a difference.
STM Prime review conclusion
As with the other STM products I have reviewed, fit and finish of the Prime is great.
The materials used seem robust and the stitching hardy. My Drifter still looks as new, even after 7 months of constant use.
The Prime features good, heavy duty zippers. Its water resistant out fabric and quality internal linings all add to the reassurance that your gadgets will be safely cosseted.
STM Prime price and availability
STM Prime is available in frost grey, black, steel, and Moroccan blue for $79.95. You can buy direct from the STM website, or Amazon.co.uk.
