“I had to travel to NYC this past weekend. For a two day trip I definitely had more gear than clothes. The Ego and the Aeronaunt were perfect for the job. We’ll have a FirstUse write-up later on this month. We think most will be surprised at the amount of gear one can managed to pack in the Ego 
” – Wan Chi Lau
Read the entire Rainy Day Magazine First Look at the Ego Messenger Bag
Excerpt:
“It finally struck me that Tom Bihn and Apple, Inc. are definitely on the same wavelength, and have a lot of the same ideals. Tom’s bags are meticulously hand crafted, with design and functionality seamlessly blending into one. The workers on the floor obviously take pride in recreating the art pieces that Tom has designed. I emphasize again something that I pointed out last time with the Smart Alec review, the craftsman on the floor aren’t in another part of the world, where workmanship can be questionable and no oversight committees are needed to make sure things are done correctly. These people work alongside the actual designer in Seattle, Washington. That not only keeps quality high with fewer QC issues, but perhaps even inventiveness and innovation can spring from such a relationship, furthering these exceptional bags.”
Excerpt:
“Speaking as someone who is 6′4″ and doesn’t like to ever be without anything, I heartily recommend the Ego. The laptop compartment has quite good padding to protect against falls, and there’s a good deal of both open and organized storage space for students or office types. More than anything, though, there’s the sense of attention to detail and thoughtful design throughout the bag. The only question is really whether the bag is right for you. If you’re 5′2″ and just want to carry around your 12-inch PowerBook, there are probably better options, but if a MacBook and textbooks or peripherals are a fact of life, the Ego is well worth consideration.”
Sling away with laptop sling bags
By Dan Frakes
Excerpt:
“Perhaps the best feature of the Buzz is its build quality. The materials are thick and rugged, and the bag uses large, sturdy zippers. The pack looks and feels well made—made in the U.S., in fact, unlike most laptop bags these days—and includes a lifetime warranty.”
Excerpt:
“With many uses, even without a notebook, the Ego is a great bag for anyone. Although on the expensive side, it’s definitely worth the cost of it, it’s not a mass produced bag made in another country, it’s designed and made in Seattle. The customization, warranty, as well as the bag’s quality itself guarantees a full lifespan. When combined with a Brain Cell, the Ego makes a great notebook bag, stylish yet with the utmost protection it can have. My Super Ego is almost three years old, and it doesn’t even look old, it looks brand new, with no open seams nor scratches. I know the Ego will do the same.”
The Gadgeteer Reviews the Ego and Super Ego Messenger Bags
Excerpt:
“In sum, I can recommend either of the Ego bags without reservation. I think the choice of Super Ego or Ego is really one of personal preference, though smaller framed people may feel a bit overwhelmed by the sheer size of the Super Ego. Either way you chose you will find that they are superbly designed and constructed with high-quality materials. This means, of course, that they are not inexpensive – if you are looking for a low cost bag then don’t look at Bihn’s bags. However, these bags are great values, even outfitted with the optional items described above. Be sure to get a color you like as you will likely live with it for a long time, as you will likely not be in the market for a new bag any time soon – that’s been my experience, which is a relief to both Casey and my overstuffed closet.”
“The Tom Bihn Empire Builder at $150 is so well made out of such great materials, that you may not need another briefcase–ever, the life of Tom Bihn’s warranty to the initial purchaser. If its mated with a Brain Cell ($50) and an Absolute Shoulder Strap ($25), in our experience and opinion you will have the best bag money can buy — Bill Fox”
“Conclusion:
We loved the simplicity of this bag. I tested it with my camera gear and it performed very well. It doesn’t feature padding inside, but that’s not really what this bag is meant for. It’s intended purpose is to be used as a day to day throw your stuff in and head out. Christiane tested it out as well, as a day-day purse replacement. It worked very well for her as a purse replacement, but don’t forget that this is a uni-sex bag, and can be used for a variety of things & people. Perfectly sized, durable, functional, & no frills. We totally loved it!”
“Tom Bihn’s bag reviews are ones that I look forward to, as they are consistently good. Only the best materials are used, attention is paid to every detail, and the bags that I’ve owned have stood up to years of abuse – while still managing to look great! This smaller version Ego bag is a great addition to their line, and it should definitely be considered by anyone that needs a mid-sized laptop bag.
What I Like: Extremely well made with quality materials; can be accessorized to hold a laptop safely; choices of colors and front strips allow many personalization options; The interior is well thought out with many pockets and zippered compartments; the beverage pockets on the side can be condensed when not in use (I love that!)
What Needs Improvement: Nothing – it’s a great option for those that want a smaller version of the Super Ego”
Photo courtesy of Gear Diary.
Excerpt:
“The fit of the Brain Cell is perfect and everything else has a place in the Ego bag. After 3 weeks she said that she can’t live without it (that puts the Ego in the exclusive company of her Macbook and our Tivo, I am jealous). I agree with her, this bag is big enough without being huge, her stuff (notebooks, reports, and other miscellaneous preschool teacher stuff) fits well with a little room to spare. The bag looks nice and is easy to use. On top of that the quality of materials and workmanship is first rate.”
