Traditionally styled laptop cases have one major design flaw - they look like they were designed to carry a notebook PC, advertising to the world at large that you have an expensive piece of kit within easy reach of thieves. Standard day bags, however, provide no protection for PCs in transit.

The Proteo is the latest in a long line of more stylish carry cases that offer an additional barrier between your computer and the elements. Just how much protection is tricky to gauge, as case manufacturers come over all reticient when asked for a notebook PC to lob around the office by way of a hardiness test.

Samsonite claims the bag will withstand "all that modern travel can throw at it," although whether this means falling from a luggage rack or being hit by the Orient Express is not clarified.

Suffice to say, this bag should be seen as protection against minor knocks and drops only and we wouldn't recommend it for stowing in, say, an aircraft baggage hold. That kind of protection requires something stiffer than springy foam and adds weight to the case.

But that's not what the Proteo is designed for - it is aimed at students and urban commuters who are increasingly having to carry notebooks PCs on the daily commute, not executives who need to protect an expensive ultra-lightweight computer on lengthy trips.

The protection in the bag consists of a foam-sprung base with rubber-reinforced corners. It is light to carry and the adjustable shoulder strap is more comfortable than on some bags we have tried.

Inside are three main compartments: a zipped interior designed for the notebook PC, with a velcro strap and divider to hold the PC in place. A second area that gives easier access to books and papers in just beneath the main flap of the bag, which locks into place using two clcik-clasps. A third zipped area provides space and prtection for mobile phones similarly sized devices.

Two further compartments can be access without opening the main flap of the bag: zipped pockets on the side and rear respectively, one for documents, the other about the right size for keys or a phone.

The Proteo is available in a wide range of sizes designed for specific screen sizes of notebook PC, messenger bags such as the one we tested, backpacks and office-style cases. If the rather lurid yellow and green, brown and green or even the stately black colour scheme fails to appeal, you may prefer to view Samsonite's business range. Prices range from £43 to £89.