I wanted this for my HP Z-Book Studio 16" laptop. When I saw "hard shell", I automatically assumed "hard" as in hard plastic or hard metal. In fact it was more like "kinda hard - sorta softish", but it still does a good job - and I think if it was too hard it might be too heavy or unwieldy. At least that's what I'm telling myself.My 16" HP fit inside the bag perfectly, and was strapped down so it wouldn't move. I think I would be inclined to put the computer in the bag, before I put it in my backpack, and that would give a greater measure of re-assurance.The bag is well made - that's obvious - and the interior is protective. The handle is sturdy and the included strap would let you carry the bag cross shoulder and that would free up your hands.Overall a very nice computer laptop bag, that easily fit my HP-Z Book, has its own strap, looks great and carries very easily. I recommend it.