UAG Scout Case, Plyo Case, and Civilian Medium Sleeve Add Protective Style to the MacBook Neo

I recently streamlined my computer setup down to a Mac mini and a MacBook Neo. The Mini is easy, as it just sits on my desk, but the Neo is now my “toss it in my bag and off we go” device. And now, thanks to Urban Armor Gear (UAG), I can keep my Neo protected AND stylish with their new shells and sleeve.

UAG has a few items in their new Neo-oriented line of products: two protective shells and a laptop sleeve compatible with any computer up to 14″. All three have what I would call the “Urban Armor Gear” aesthetic. They’re rugged but with clean geometric patterns and straddling that line where they’re protective without being bulky. UAG has a very clear design language, and it comes through in the new Neo accessories, too.

UAG Scout Case

First, there’s the Scout Case. It comes in one color, “ice”, and it has a translucent but frosted look to it. Scout adds very little bulk to the Neo but effectively covers the computer against everyday damage. Every corner is protected, and there are clean, tight cutouts for the charger ports and speakers. There are also 4 feet underneath that are slightly rubbery for extra grip on any surface. Both halves are connected by a rubberized hinge, and it’s very easy to snap the case on and off.

This is the perfect shell for everyday travel. It keeps the computer from being banged or scratched, and it doesn’t add any major bulk. I also found no issues with it getting hot during more intensive projects. It’s the less expensive option in the category at $44.95, but it certainly doesn’t feel like a cheap or budget choice.

UAG Plyo Case

If you want a little more protection, the next step up is the Plyo Case. This fits similarly to the Scout Case, but with the addition of a co-mold TPU and PC construction and reinforced corners for extra drop protection. It does add slightly more bulk, but honestly, the only way you notice the difference is if you’re swapping between Scout and Plyo. Otherwise, it feels like a reasonable tradeoff between protection and size.

Like Scout, Plyo comes in what UAG calls “ice”, but with this case it’s more of a smoky clear look. It also feels a touch less slippery and more grippy around the edges, probably due to the TPU. It sports rubber feet for grip and maintains the same precision in cutouts and access.

I had zero issues with either case and my laptop chargers. You do pay a little more for protection, with Plyo retailing for $64.95.

If you’re reading this and wondering which to choose, it really comes down to budget and intended use. Both cases are designed to be translucent enough to show off the colors if you opted for a more colorful Neo, and they’ll both give everyday protection against the general bangs and bumps of life.

Personally, I’ve been gravitating towards Scout because 90% of my Neo use is on the couch or at a kitchen table or desk somewhere. But if my 13-year-old were using the Neo, or if I were using it while traveling more, the Plyo would feel worth the extra cost for the peace of mind that comes with the slightly more rugged construction. And if you’re using the Neo while holding or carrying it, the Plyo would be a no-brainer for the extra grip the material provides!

UAG Civilian Medium Sleeve

Meanwhile, once you’ve settled on a shell, you might still want a way to carry not only your computer but also cables, maybe a mouse, some post-its, whatever else you can’t compute without. UAG’s Civilian Medium Sleeve is ideal for the Neo. It’s rated to hold up to a 14″ laptop, and the Neo in either shell fits nicely. The sleeve has some padding and stiffness, which adds another layer of protection and means it’ll hold its own inside a backpack or messenger bag full of stuff.

The outside is gray while the inside is a shockingly bright orange. The large pocket on one side doesn’t have any closure, but it is roomy enough to hold a charger, a mouse, a notebook, even an iPad or a paperback book. Unlike the shells, the branding here does spell out Urbn Armr Gear in block letters, but it’s subtle branding (and possibly they paid by the vowel based on the layout ;)). At $49.95, it’s a versatile add-on for your gear bag!

The Neo is an amazing travel companion, and UAG’s offerings make it that much tougher and easier to bring into all sorts of situations. If you’re rocking a Neo, these are some great ways to add some style and protection!

Source: Manufacturer-provided samples