For me, 12" is the smallest size you can fit a non-compromised, normal keyboard layout in. I also carry around a smaller messenger bag which 12" laptops just a

For me, 12" is the smallest size you can fit a non-compromised, normal keyboard layout in. I also carry around a smaller messenger bag which 12" laptops just about fit in. I tried to pull off a 17" Dell mobile workstation, but got very tired of lugging around a backpack and having no battery life.