Here’s a “short list” of companies that we think make great bags for your MacBook, MacBook Pro, or iPhone. We’re not linking to individual bags at this time because products change and links change so often. By linking to the manufacturers we’ve personally dealt with, we can have a more permanent resource of what’s out there today. We’ve attempted to stray away from larger and more mainstream bag makers. Each of these in the list are small outfits that are mostly Apple-centric. The bags range from $40 to $400, nylon to leather, a sleeve to a full overnight bag, so there’s certainly an option for everyone. If you know of a company that should qualify to make the list, please let us know by emailing editor (at) pbzone.com.

Pinder Bags–These bags are intended for the chic minimalist, with simple designs and unique colors. Made by a small company in the U.S., not only do they make high-quality bags, they do their part for the world, too, by donating 5% of all revenue to several charities. Without breaking the bank, you can get a great accessory for your laptop and feel good while doing it.

Spire USA–Definitely give these guys a look when searching for any sort of notebook bag. Their design incorporates an urban “pack” look and protects your MacBook well..

Like many of the companies on this list, Spire is a small, private company that takes great pride in its work. They’re based in Boulder, Colorado and every bag is handmade there.

Acme Made–Acme is another small company, headquartered in San Francisco, that makes neat products geared specifically towards Macintosh portables. The bulk of their lineup are totes that fit a variety of sizes of notebook. Some of them can be carried on its own or inside another larger bag.

They also make a line of “iCovers,” which are very thin micro suede screen-protecting cover slips. They’re washable, waterproof, and protect both the screen and the outer surface of the MacBook. To check them out visually, visit here.

WaterField Designs–These guys are very similar to the above listing. Taking pride in designing and manufacturing their bags in the USA, WaterField has a solid lineup that’s geared towards Macintosh laptops. Especially neat are their “SleeveCase” laptop protection sleeves that allow you to put your iBook, PowerBook, MacBook, or MacBook Pro in your favorite bag or briefcase.

Shaun Jackson Design–SJD specializes in making bags that transform a regular carrying case into a “mobile work environment.” Their original LapDog folds out on your lap and allows you to work efficiently with all your MacBook’s accessories in easy reach anywhere you sit down.

Booq–known for industrial-strength offerings, Booq makes a wide range of backpacks, bags, and sleeves catering to the Apple fan. If your primary concerns are protection for your baby and space for your toys, Booq makes especially good stuff. Their five-year warranty stands out as a testament to their confidence in their products.

Timbuk2–this company allows you to do something unique when buying a laptop carrying case–they’ll let you design the bag yourself. You can choose the size, style, and up to three colors and the company will build your bag to order. Their messenger bags seem to be the most popular that they offer. We receive repeated emails about how cool this site and how we should post a note, despite the fact that we mention it about once a month.

Dr. Bott–this company, largely a distributor of a variety of Macintosh peripherals, has many MacBook cases for sale. Materials used range from metal for a very modern industrial look to classic leather offerings. Dr. Bott has a strong reputation among those in the Mac community.

Tom Bihn–like many of the others, this is a small outfit that makes its bags by hand here in the USA. They’ve got a myriad of choices to pick from for MacBooks and MacBook Pros, and make some of the best-looking bags available, particularly for those interested in a more youthful and urban design.