Best briefcases for men 2023: stylish, durable, & professional
by Albert Varkki updated 03-20-2023
The best briefcase will be made from full grain leather and be both professional and durable.
Ideally it will also have a laptop compartment, and a detachable shoulder strap for your commute to the office
Browse our top briefcases for men in 2023 below.
Best Briefcases 2023
No.1 Briefcase
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Made of full grain leather | Price point may be considered a worthwhile investment |
Durable and long-lasting | Weight adds to its overall quality and strength |
Spacious and versatile | Proper care and maintenance will ensure its longevity |
Classic and stylish design | |
Suitable for both professional and casual use |

















No.1 Men's Leather Briefcase - Click To Check Price

















No.1 Briefcase Product Highlights:
Product | No.1 Briefcase |
Material | Full Grain Leather - Certified Vegetable Tanned |
Laptop Size | up to 15.6 inch |
Lining | Durable Cotton Canvas |
Zippers | YKK Zippers - Italian-Made |
Handmade? | Handmade in Florence, Italy |
Straps | Detachable and Adjustable Shoulder Strap |
Carry-on Compliant? | Yes |
Width | 40 cm (16 in) |
Height | 29 cm (11 in) |
Depth | 14.5 cm (6 in) |
Weight | 1.7 kg (0.8 lbs) |
Personalization? | Custom Laser Engraving |
Essential Briefcase
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Made of full grain leather | Price point may be considered a worthwhile investment |
Durable and long-lasting | Weight adds to its overall quality and strength |
Modern and stylish design | Proper care and maintenance will ensure its longevity |
Spacious and versatile | |
Suitable for both professional and casual use | |
Multiple compartments for organized storage |











Essential Modern Briefcase - Click To Check Price











Essential Briefcase Product Highlights:
Product | Essential Briefcase |
Material | Full Grain Leather - Certified Vegetable Tanned |
Laptop Size | up to 15.6 inch |
Lining | Durable Cotton Canvas |
Zippers | YKK Zippers - Italian-Made |
Handmade? | Handmade in Florence, Italy |
Straps | Detachable and Adjustable Shoulder Strap |
Carry-on Compliant? | Yes |
Width | 40 cm (16 in) |
Height | 31 cm (12 in) |
Depth | 10 cm (4 in) |
Weight | 1.3 kg (0.6 lbs) |
Personalization? | Custom Laser Engraving |
City Laptop Bag
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Made of full grain leather | May have a slightly higher cost compared to other materials |
Stylish and sophisticated design | Not completely waterproof |
Ample storage space and compartments | Not ideal for extremely heavy items |
Comfortable to carry and handle | |
Durable and long-lasting construction | |
Develops a unique patina over time | |
Easy to clean and maintain |














City Leather Laptop Bag - Click To Check Price














City Laptop Bag Product Highlights:
Product | City Laptop Bag |
Material | Full Grain Leather - Certified Vegetable Tanned |
Laptop Size | up to 15.6 inch |
Lining | Durable Cotton Canvas |
Zippers | YKK Zippers - Italian-Made |
Handmade? | Handmade in Florence, Italy |
Straps | Detachable and Adjustable Shoulder Strap |
Carry-on Compliant? | Yes |
Width | 38 cm (15 in) |
Height | 28 cm (11 in) |
Depth | 7 cm (3 in) |
Weight | 1.2 kg (0.5 lbs) |
Personalization? | Custom Laser Engraving |
Exquisite Briefcase
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Made of full grain leather | May have a slightly higher cost compared to other materials |
Sleek and sophisticated appearance | Not completely waterproof |
Slim design for easy portability | Limited storage space compared to larger bags |
Durable and long-lasting construction | |
Multiple compartments for organized packing | |
Perfect for both casual and professional use | |
Develops a unique patina over time | |
Sufficient storage for laptop and essentials |































Exquisite Slim Leather Laptop Briefcase - Click To Check Price































Exquisite Briefcase Product Highlights:
Product | Exquisite Briefcase |
Material | Full Grain Leather - Certified Vegetable Tanned |
Laptop Size | up to 14 inch |
Lining | Durable Cotton Canvas |
Zippers | YKK Zippers - Italian-Made |
Handmade? | Handmade in Florence, Italy |
Straps | Detachable and Adjustable Shoulder Strap |
Carry-on Compliant? | Yes |
Width | 40 cm (16 in) |
Height | 29 cm (11 in) |
Depth | 10 cm (4 in) |
Weight | 1.1 kg (0.5 lbs) |
Personalization? | Custom Laser Engraving |
Elegant Briefcase
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Made of full grain leather | Price point may be considered a worthwhile investment |
Durable and long-lasting | Weight adds to its overall quality and strength |
Slim and compact design | Proper care and maintenance will ensure its longevity |
Elegant and professional appearance | |
Fits most laptops up to 15.6 inches | |
Multiple compartments for organized storage |























Elegant Slim Leather Laptop Bag - Click To Check Price























Elegant Briefcase Product Highlights:
Product | Elegant Briefcase |
Material | Full Grain Leather - Certified Vegetable Tanned |
Laptop Size | up to 14 inch |
Lining | Durable Cotton Canvas |
Zippers | YKK Zippers - Italian-Made |
Handmade? | Handmade in Florence, Italy |
Straps | Detachable and Adjustable Shoulder Strap |
Carry-on Compliant? | Yes |
Width | 40 cm (16 in) |
Height | 30 cm (12 in) |
Depth | 8 cm (3 in) |
Weight | 1.1 kg (0.5 lbs) |
Personalization? | Custom Laser Engraving |
No.2 Briefcase
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Made of full grain leather | Price point may be considered a worthwhile investment |
Durable and long-lasting | Weight adds to its overall quality and strength |
Spacious and versatile | Proper care and maintenance will ensure its longevity |
Stylish and professional design | |
Suitable for both commuting and business use | |
Adjustable shoulder strap for comfort |











No.2 Leather Messenger Briefcase - Click To Check Price











No.2 Briefcase Product Highlights:
Product | No.2 Briefcase |
Material | Full Grain Leather - Certified Vegetable Tanned |
Laptop Size | up to 15.6 inch |
Lining | Durable Cotton Canvas |
Zippers | YKK Zippers - Italian-Made |
Handmade? | Handmade in Florence, Italy |
Straps | Detachable and Adjustable Shoulder Strap |
Carry-on Compliant? | Yes |
Width | 40 cm (16 in) |
Height | 30 cm (12 in) |
Depth | 11 cm (4 in) |
Weight | 1.55 kg (0.7 lbs) |
Personalization? | Custom Laser Engraving |
City Large Laptop Bag
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Made of full grain leather | Price point may be considered a worthwhile investment |
Durable and long-lasting | Weight adds to its overall quality and strength |
Spacious and versatile | Proper care and maintenance will ensure its longevity |
Suitable for both professional and casual use | |
Fits most laptops up to 17 inches | |
Multiple compartments for organized storage |













City Large Leather Laptop Bag - Click To Check Price













City Large Laptop Bag Product Highlights:
Product | City Large Laptop Bag |
Material | Full Grain Leather - Certified Vegetable Tanned |
Laptop Size | up to 17 inch |
Lining | Durable Cotton Canvas |
Zippers | YKK Zippers - Italian-Made |
Handmade? | Handmade in Florence, Italy |
Straps | Detachable and Adjustable Shoulder Strap |
Carry-on Compliant? | Yes |
Width | 45 cm (18 in) |
Height | 34 cm (13 in) |
Depth | 8 cm (3 in) |
Weight | 1.6 kg (0.7 lbs) |
Personalization? | Custom Laser Engraving |
No.3 Briefcase
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Made of full grain leather | May have a slightly higher cost compared to other materials |
Stylish and professional design | Not completely waterproof |
Ample storage space for essentials | Not ideal for extremely heavy items |
Comfortable to carry and handle | |
Durable and long-lasting construction | |
Develops a unique patina over time | |
Easy to clean and maintain | |
Multiple compartments for organized packing | |
Suitable for work, school, and travel |

















No.3 Leather Messenger Briefcase - Click To Check Price

















No.3 Briefcase Product Highlights:
Product | No.3 Briefcase |
Material | Full Grain Leather - Certified Vegetable Tanned |
Laptop Size | up to 13 inch |
Lining | Durable Cotton Canvas |
Zippers | YKK Zippers - Italian-Made |
Handmade? | Handmade in Florence, Italy |
Straps | Detachable and Adjustable Shoulder Strap |
Carry-on Compliant? | Yes |
Width | 38 cm (15 in) |
Height | 30 cm (12 in) |
Depth | 9 cm (4 in) |
Weight | 1.5 kg (0.7 lbs) |
Personalization? | Custom Laser Engraving |
Why You Should Carry a Briefcase
While briefcases have always been popular with bankers, lawyers, and MBA graduates, their popularity with business professionals has waned in recent years.
Whether this is due to more of us working from home or that most office environments no longer require formal attire, the jury is out. But briefcases are making a comeback, with most leading designers adding them to their latest luggage collections.
The benefits of using a briefcase are well-documented. They are stylish, versatile, practical, and durable. While you cannot throw them over your shoulder like a backpack, they provide much higher protection for client files, study books, business contracts, and tech accessories, making them invaluable for anyone dealing with confidential documents.
Many modern briefcases feature both a carry handle and a shoulder strap for flexibility when you’re running for the train, and they contain numerous pockets and pouches for organization.
If you travel in a professional capacity, a leather briefcase will help you do so in style. Standard models can easily accommodate your laptop, workday essentials, water bottle and lunch. Treat yourself to a large briefcase, and you’ll have enough space for a clean shirt, workout clothes, and even bulky client files.
Find the perfect briefcase to suit your lifestyle, and you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it.
Related:
- Best Business Briefcases for Men
- Best Leather Laptop Bags for Men
- Best Leather Briefcases for Men
- Best Leather Messenger Bags for Men
- Men's Leather Work Bags
- Briefcase Backpacks
- Men's Leather Messenger Bags
- Men's Leather Laptop Bags
- Men's Leather Briefcases
How To Choose
Now you know why you should carry a briefcase, here are our top tips on choosing the best briefcase for you.
Size Matters
Briefcases, like all other bags, come in various shapes and sizes, so it is essential that you shop around to find the perfect one for you.
An average briefcase will measure 17” high and 12” wide, but you will find both smaller and larger models on the market. If your briefcase only needs to carry your laptop, a few business files, and your tech accessories, you can go with a smaller design.
But if your job involves transporting multiple files, spare shirts, and client samples, you should opt for a 20” by 15” briefcase or larger.
Material
Briefcases are typically available in genuine leather, vegan leather, or ballistic nylon for enhanced durability. Genuine leather briefcases are the most expensive (and luxurious) option, but with proper care, they can last 5, 10 or even 15 years, so they are a wise investment for any business professional.
A ballistic nylon briefcase could also last 15 years or more, but only if they have quality features such as reinforced corners, robust integrated handles, durable zippers and press-stud closures that will open and close a million times without breaking.
Locks, Protection & Security
You’ll most likely use your briefcase to transport confidential documents and expensive technology, so look for one with padded compartments, RFID pockets, and tamper-resistant locks to prevent unauthorized access during your daily commute.
Most modern briefcases have a protective laptop pouch, and many have combination locks to keep would-be thieves at bay. Make sure your new briefcase has all the security features you need to transport your workday essentials safely.
Design
When buying a new briefcase, look for a design that matches your personal style. If you dress to impress in power suits, make sure your briefcase is sleek, sophisticated, and styled to complement your professional attire. Practically will always play an important role when selecting a briefcase, but you should never overlook the design.
Related:
- Litigator Briefcases
- Travel Briefcases
- Custom Leather Briefcases
- Best Briefcases For Lawyers
- Best Laptop Briefcases
- Best Travel Briefcases
- Best Designer Briefcases
- Satchel Briefcases
- Slim Leather Briefcases
- Designer Briefcases
- Italian Leather Briefcases
- Locking Briefcases
- Best Modern Briefcases
- Laptop Briefcases
- Best Briefcases for Men
Features
When comparing briefcases, don’t forget to look at additional features such as detachable shoulder straps, interior compartments, water bottle holders, luggage attachment sleeves, and storage space.
You may not think you need a shoulder strap, but if you ever have to commute to the office by train or travel to a business meeting, you might appreciate having one. The same applies to trolley sleeves. Attaching your briefcase to your suitcase will free up your hands to navigate busy airports, transport, and office buildings.
FAQs
Why is a briefcase better than a laptop bag?
Briefcases and laptops may be similar in design, but briefcases are typically larger.
If you only need to transport a laptop, a laptop bag could meet your needs, but if you frequently carry documents, files, and client contracts, in addition to your tech, a briefcase will provide you with the additional space you need.
What size briefcase should I buy?
When measuring up for a new briefcase, consider your needs. How big is your laptop? You’ll need a briefcase that can easily accommodate it and any necessary paperwork, writing accessories, charging cables and workday essentials.
Don’t be tempted to go with a streamlined briefcase if it doesn’t meet your needs. It may look smart, but if it cannot carry everything you need, it will soon end up at the back of your closet.
What is the best material for a briefcase?
As most people use briefcases in a professional capacity, full grain leather leather is the best material for a briefcase, as it looks professional and ages well.
Ballistic nylon briefcases are becoming extremely popular amongst the young elite. They are just as durable as leather briefcases but have the added benefit of being water-resistant and easy to clean with a damp cloth.
You will find vegan leather, canvas, and even polyester briefcases on the market, but they are not as stylish or durable as leather or ballistic nylon.
Do leather briefcases last?
Leather briefcases are an investment, and with proper care and attention, they could last a lifetime, but you need to treat them with respect.
Like all leather goods, leather briefcases do not like being exposed to humidity, direct sunlight, or extreme temperatures, so if you commute by train or public transport, a ballistic nylon briefcase might be a better option.
You should clean your leather briefcase regularly with a lint-free cloth and saddle soap and use a leather conditioner to prevent cracks.
Can I use a briefcase as cabin baggage?
Yes, most briefcases are small enough to fit in the overhead lockers, although we recommend checking with the airline before you depart for the airport to avoid any unexpected costs.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoyed our article on the best briefcases for men.
If you have any questions or comments, contact us at info@vonbaer.com, or leave them in the comments.
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