So I received this laptop bag as a gift, which is handy because my previous laptop carrying device is really an ancient briefcase which I've hated for some time, but been too cheap to improve on as it was actually working albeit ugly, clunkly and heavy. This Belkin bag is not ugly or clunky or heavy, a significant improvement in my view. It has pockets aplenty each handily labeled for those, such as myself, averse to remembering where I've put this or that. For example, there is a special pocket for the mouse, slots for credit cards and pens, ipod pocket, a mini bag for the computer cord plus a few handy miscellaneous compartments secured by zipper or velcro. All labeled with charming little symbols. No compartment for my old discman though - haven't voluntarily replaced that yet either.
It has a separate handle to carry by hand or you can use the shoulder loop, which is a very satisfactory width by which I mean you can carry the thing over the shoulder without it starting to hurt. Mine fits laptops just over 15 inches though you can buy one to fit, i believe, 17 inch monitors. The laptop compartment is lined with some kind of soft material - no fear of scratching. The bag is 'soft shell' so I presume it wouldn't do much to protect my computer if I dropped it although it is somewhat padded. I've only had it a while so I don't know what kind of shelf life bag has in it but it definitely appears to be well made. In that case, it may well be worth $50. I've never really priced laptop bags.
All in all a most satisfactory gift to receive. I didn't rate it too highly on the 'lust-o-meter' because, well it's a laptop bag, after all.