I have no idea what the bad reviews are here. They almost stopped me to order this product. Finally, I've done yet, and am a very satisfied. Of course, the bag has a certain smell, because it is new, however, I would call this normal. In addition, the bag (as seen on the image 3.) a small slot in the upper part, so that one can his laptop there "push" and so protected against scratches by the zipper. All in all, highly recommended!