Moshi (http://www.moshimonde.com/) describes itself as the "purveyor of electronics fashion" and its Codex case is both stunning and quite practical, combining runway fashion with solid laptop protection.

Unlike other Macbook protectors, this case is designed to be left on your computer at all times. Think of it as a sleeve you can use while the computer is still protected. Because it acts as a sleeve, it's checkpoint friendly and can protect your MacBook on its sometimes perilous trip through airport security. I'm a big fan of cases like this because while some incidents can happen during transit, I often see the worst damage occur during the process of putting a laptop in a case or pulling it out. A hand slips or a zipper you thought was closed wasn't. Ouch. Codex has Viscotex inserts and Terahedron inner lining to provide a advanced level of shock protection.

The Codex can be comfortably kept on at all times to protect your Mac. The case has a standard handle so it could be used exclusively as a carrying case though personally I use it in addition to my existing laptop bag. This gives my MacBook a tight and snug fit, but also provides more shock absorption. During everyday use, I don't have to worry as much about spills around my Mac or a dirty coffee shop table.

My MacBook has a stylish barrier between it and the environment it's in. When I pull out the case, people are impressed. It elevates my already stylish MacBook to to super model status. The 24/7 protection is peace of mind to protect my investment.

After using the Codex for an extended period of time, there was no significant increase in the internal heat of my MacBook. The Codex does a great job of ventilation due to four bottom rubber risers that lift your Macbook slightly off the bottom of the case. These also prevent the MacBook from slipping while in the case.  When the exterior of the case gets dirty, it cleans easily with a damp cloth. Moshi recommends leather cleaner for exterior cleaning.

The complete package includes a keyboard and screen protector that can double as a mousepad if you wish, as well as a matching Apple Remote case.

Like a super model, it's not perfect. An annoying flaw in the design is that you cannot charge the MacBook while the case is closed. The case completely blocks all external connectors. You either need to remove the Codex while charging your Macbook or you need to leave your MacBook open. This is disappointing and could have been avoided, but super models tend to make sacrifices for fashion, so I'll overlook this limitation due to the Codex's overall stunning design and protection capabilities.

If you are going to protect your Mac and don't want to comprise either fashion or function the Codex is for you. The models vary in size based on your laptop: 13-inch, 15-inch and 17-inch -- and the color choices vary based on size but include metallic silver , metallic black, opalescent pink, and burgundy red. Pricing starts at $65.

Pros Sytlish sophistication with maximum protection
Cons: Pricey, blocks the charger port when closed

Macsimum Rating  8 out of 10

-- "Doctor Dave" Greenbaum