A laptop may look impenetrable, but the slightest mishandling can lead to damage. A laptop protective cover is an accessory that helps keep your expensive technology safe in a bag or case while you’re on the go. Depending on your lifestyle, you may need a sleeve that offers minimal protection or one that’s designed to stand up to heavy use and rough environments.

The best laptop protective cover is a soft fabric that’s padded to protect your computer from bumps and drops while keeping it snugly in place without adding too much extra bulk. Neoprene, a common material, is soft to the touch and has a sponge-like feel that adds thickness. It also holds up well against wear and tear.

If you’re looking for more padding, consider a thicker EVA case like this one from Matador that fits 13- and 15-inch laptops. Its geometric foam padding helps save your screen from getting crushed against binders or books in your bag, while super soft fleece edging the rim keeps it from being scratched along the vulnerable side. It also has corded zipper pulls that are easy to grasp, even with gloves. The roll top seals in weather protection, which is especially handy if you’re waiting for the bus in the rain or want to keep water out of your gadget while on a beach vacation.

Sleeves are great for laptops that sit in a backpack or case, but you might want something more secure for your daily commute or frequent travel. You can still rely on the sleeve to keep your laptop protected from dust and scratches, but it will have less impact-resistant foam than a hard case.

Consider a hardshell case that’s made for your specific laptop model, like this one from MOSISO, which is tailor-made for the MacBook Pro 16 with a clear back panel so you can still see your Apple logo. The hardshell is sturdy enough to offer impact resistance while being thin and lightweight, making it the best laptop protective cover for traveling. Its design also makes it easy to access all ports and includes a dedicated pocket for your power cable.

A sleeve is a pouch, often made from plastic or nylon, that’s designed to fit closely over the skin of your laptop. You can also find sleeves that are made from fabric, like this neoprene model from Bagsmart. It has a unique multi-layer foam design that’s soft inside, shock absorbent, and water resistant on the outside, and is cheaper than most competitors.

The sleeve’s minimalist style is what sets it apart from the competition. The neoprene is incredibly soft and water resistant, and the narrow opening lets you slide your laptop in and out with ease. It also comes in a variety of colors and fits laptops up to 13 inches.