I actually ordered this bag from Apple but returned it. I like the concept of the bag but it was too heavy, and too large (too wide) for me. If i remember correctly, the top width was close to 19 in wide and it looked like a beach bag on me. I initially purchased this because I too wanted a bag that was suitable for work and school. But after thinking about it, i couldn't see myself using it as an everyday bag after college.
Have you seen it IRL and looked inside yet? The straps are very durable, so you don't have to worry about that. As for the center compartment for the laptop, it's not fully sewn to the bag, it's only attached by the top part if that makes sense so the body of the center compartment flaps around, which may be a good thing. I noticed that when I had my Dell XPS 13" laptop in the center compartment, i wasn't able to open/expand the bag as much as I like. The bag itself is a very thick saffiano leather, thicker than other saffiano leather handbags that MK makes, I suppose to accommodate for the weight of a laptop. I personally did not like this thick saffiano leather because it looked too stiff. I like structure but I felt this bag was TOO structured. I hope this helped you a little. GOOD LUCK!
i think the bigger one would be great for laptops