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Seventeen-inch laptop hard cases come in all shapes and sizes. Every type has a different use, which can range from work to travel and all the way to protection against water and shock. The following list includes types based on protection and usage scenarios.
These types are used on an everyday basis and are meant to protect against minor scrapes, bumps, and dust. They are often made of materials like plastic or lightweight metals. They are normally used in the offices, at home, or while commuting. Seventeen inch laptop hard shells are carried around easily, so they can easily fit into bags or can be carried on their own.
Cases that are made to be used for travel are often bulkier and have extra pockets for accessories like power cables, mice, and even documents. They can be hard or soft, but most people would use hard cases due to the extra protection they afford in case of rough handling. These are designed for people who are traveling by air, road, or even rail.
Waterproof and shockproof cases are designed for people who work in extreme conditions or charge their gadgets on the go. These cases are made of heavy-duty materials like rubber or reinforced plastics to endure drops, water, and even extreme temperatures. These are often used by outdoor workers, photographers, and adventure enthusiasts.
Slim and lightweight hard cases are preferred by those users who want to shield their laptops but are not willing to carry any extra weight. These cases are made of thin but strong materials like polycarbonate or carbon fiber. These are used in most situations, like going to school, traveling, or even semi-regular business use. The case can easily fit into any fashion or business bag without compromising any security.
The design is more than just good looks when it comes to these hard cases. Designers think a lot about the people who will be using the cases. They consider how the users will use the case, the protection level needed, and even what features will make it easier to use. One might be tempted to think that all these cases are just too bland, but there is every reason to be excited. Materials, internal designs, external features, and even color choices come together to form a great hard case design.
With the external aspects, the external appearance and structure of the hard case play a key role in protection. The material used to make the surface part of the hard case is essential in the protective factors it has. Most hard cases are made from hard plastics like polycarbonate or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene. These plastics are lightweight and hard, so the laptop does not suffer any trauma from small impacts like bumps or falls. There are also metal options like aluminum, which provide a premium look and feel along with extra sturdiness.
External case design contains elements like zippers, clasps, and latches to secure the case's contents. These features are also selected based on the target audience. For example, water- and shock-resistant hard cases may have reinforced closures like carabiners or heavy-duty clips to provide extra security in extreme conditions.
The inside of a hard case is as important as the outside. Foam padding or custom-molded interiors hold the laptop snug while giving it an extra layer of cushion from shock or impact. Some designs have cutouts for the laptop and its accessories, like the charger and mouse. Soft materials like velvet or foam are commonly used to ensure the laptop has a snug fit inside the case.
Some cases have more complex internal designs, including dividers and pockets, to keep the laptop and accessories organized. This is especially helpful for travel or professional cases where one needs many things to be in order.
Whether a product is ergonomic determines how comfortable and easy it will be to use. Cases made for travel or work have handles and shoulder straps. These straps are made with padded foam and, hence, are comfortable to use, even if one has to hold them for long periods. Laptop sleeves are meant for short trips. They have easy-grip zippers or straps that one can easily hold in one hand.
Another important consideration is how big or small the case is and how many accessories it can hold. Pockets and compartments within the case not only help organize things but also add to the overall convenience factor.
The aesthetic appeal of hard cases is not to be ignored as many users consider style to be of utmost importance. The materials used in making these products range from vivid plastics and metal finishes to all sorts textiles. These cases have decorative elements like embossing, stitching, or branding. They are particularly preferred by people using the case for work or travel, where the case will be an extension of their personality.
Choosing the right hard case for the laptop needs careful consideration of the case's purpose, protection level, and additional features. The points discussed below are some of the most relevant factors one has to bear in mind when selecting laptop hard cases.
Material used plays a big role in how well the case protects the laptop. As mentioned above, cases made from plastics like polycarbonate and ABS are lightweight and offer average protection. This makes them ideal for daily use or travel, where weight is a huge factor. For people who need a case that can withstand major impacts and is great for outdoor activities, go for a case made from reinforced materials, like metal or rubber composites.
This is the main reason many people get the hard case in the first place. Water-resistant and shockproof cases are a must for people who use their gadgets under harsh conditions. Regular cases are sufficient for office or indoor use, where the environment is more in control. It is also advisable to check if the case has passed military drop tests. These tests give hard casers a better understanding of how much drop or bump a case can handle.
This covers both the environment and the duration for which one will use the case. If it is for travel, select a laptop hard case with extra pockets and made from strong materials to handle long journeys. For those short commutes to the office or school, a slim and lightweight case will do just fine. The case must also be compatible with the user's lifestyle. Someone dressy will want a sleek case, while an adventurer will look for one that is waterproof and shockproof.
Lifting weights can be an extremely strenuous task, especially when one has to lift the weight for a long time. So, it is important to consider how comfortable the case is to carry around. Look for padded straps and handles and a balanced design to ensure the load does not feel heavy on one side. Latches, zippers, and other such features should be checked to make sure the case is really easy and quick to open or close.
It is important to know the available specifications of the hard case, as are instructions on how to properly maintain the case all the time. This is particularly true if one wants the laptop hard case to provide protection for as long as possible.
Seal quality, latch type, and closure mechanism are important factors in determining a case's waterproof and dustproof capabilities. Seventeen-inch laptop hard covers with ultrasonic welding seams and thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) gaskets offer some of the best seals against water and dust. Cases with these features require very little effort or time to clean as they are tightly sealed. Snap-on gaskets like TEP and pre-molded gaskets from other materials ensure a snug fit and good space utilization for the 17-inch hard case for the laptop.
Hard materials like TPE, polycarbonate, and aluminum are nearly impossible to go in or through once they are set right. Although these rigid surfaces are prone to cracking if the case is subjected to many falls, they are great for providing security against tumbling. These surfaces are a little less secure but easier to bend. These are like EVA, foam, and rubber, which can easily be damaged by flame or falling. These surfaces, however, are great for keeping a snug fit, so the laptop does not shift even a tad while stored in the hard case.
Avoid harsh cleaning chemicals like bleach or ammonia, as these can degrade the hard case over time. Use mild soap and water to clean the case and a damp cloth to wipe the surface regularly to remove dust and grime.
For waterproof cases, regularly check and maintain gaskets or seals to ensure they are not worn out or cracked. This way, users can be sure the case will still be watertight when needed. Proper inspection of the gaskets and seals will also increase the lifespan of those seals and gaskets.
To avoid scratches or dents, one should be careful when placing or storing the hard case. For foam interiors or padding, one should use a gentle vacuum or damp cloth to remove dirt, dust, or debris. Never use abrasive materials like steel wool, as it will scratch the foam or padding and, in the end, make it useless.
A1: Polycarbonate, ABS, and aluminum are the best materials. Polycarbonate and ABS are also known for being lightweight but strong. They are comfortable to carry and protect well from impacts. Aluminum is for people looking for premium-quality sturdiness and strength. It is heavier but offers unmatched protection. Some cases have these materials reinforced with rubber for better shock absorption.
A2: It must be cleaned using mild soap, water, and a soft cloth. Do not use harsh chemicals, as they will damage the case over time. Check seals and gaskets in waterproof cases for wear and tear. Store the case in a cool and dry place so the material does not degrade or dry out.
A3: Yes, the hard case is specially designed to withstand the rigors of traveling. Cases with added cushioning, like foam interiors, are great for air travel, as they protect against impacts during handling. Look for a travel case with extra features like straps and pockets to make mobility easier and keep the laptop and accessories organized.
A4: Hard cases designed to be waterproof have gaskets and seals fitted inside them to keep out water and dust. Gaskets are usually made from thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). TPE is a soft rubbery material that tightly fits into the grooves and spaces. The other process is called ultrasonic welding. It is a strong bond between the two plastic edges. This seal will keep the water right where it belongs: on the outside of the case.
A5: Typically, manufacturers will offer limited warranty coverage for defects in materials or workmanship. Warranty details will differ by brand and model. It is very important to register the product and keep the receipt to claim the warranty.