SLNT E3 Faraday Backpack Review: Field-Testing Privacy for Remote Pros

Remote work has dramatically changed our relationship with technology. While the freedom to work from anywhere offers unprecedented flexibility, it also creates new security vulnerabilities as hackers and criminals look to access your devices and electronics without so much as any physical contact.

Your digital footprint follows you everywhere, from airport lounges to coffee shops. Unless you take specific measures to disconnect, criminals can exploit the inherent weaknesses in your electronic devices.

This is where the SLNT E3 Faraday Backpack comes into play. This specialized backpack promises to address this precise challenge by preventing would-be scammers from connecting to your devices’ wireless signals and stealing your information, money, and identity.

After four weeks of hands-on testing across various environments, this review examines whether the SLNT ER Faraday Backpack delivers the balance of protection, functionality, and comfort that remote professionals need.

Key Takeaways

• The SLNT E3 Faraday Backpack offers reliable physical signal blocking for cellular, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, RFID, and NFC through removable Faraday pouches.
• It provides effective protection against keyless car theft, RFID skimming, electromagnetic interference, and even EMP-related disruptions.
• The backpack balances premium build quality, thoughtful organization, and long-wear comfort with advanced privacy features.
• Real-world testing confirmed complete signal isolation for phones, laptops, and RFID-enabled documents across multiple environments.
• Remote professionals benefit from the ability to enforce digital boundaries, protect sensitive data, and ensure privacy during travel or confidential meetings.
• Compared to airplane mode, Faraday shielding offers a higher degree of certainty by physically severing all wireless communication.
• While priced at a premium, the SLNT E3 delivers exceptional value for users who need both high-end functionality and dependable digital privacy.

What Is a Faraday Backpack?

Before diving into the specifics of the SLNT E3, it’s worth understanding what sets a Faraday backpack apart from standard bags.

Named after physicist Michael Faraday, who pioneered electromagnetic shielding in the 1800s, a Faraday cage creates an enclosure that blocks electromagnetic fields. In modern applications, this technology is used to prevent wireless signals (cellular, WiFi, Bluetooth, GPS, RFID) from entering or leaving a protected space.

A Faraday backpack integrates this protective technology into daily carry gear, allowing users to physically disconnect their devices from wireless networks at will. This provides a level of privacy and security beyond what even the best software solutions can offer.

How Faraday Backpacks Protect Against Modern Digital Threats

Faraday backpacks are designed with built-in signal-blocking technology, which shields electronic devices from a wide range of digital threats.

These backpacks block all wireless signals, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, RFID, and cellular transmissions, by creating a sealed electromagnetic barrier.

This makes them a critical line of defense for protecting your data, devices, and personal property in an increasingly connected and vulnerable world.

Below are four major threat categories that Faraday backpacks help mitigate.

Preventing Keyless Car Theft

While convenient, keyless entry systems are increasingly targeted by thieves using signal amplification tactics. Criminals exploit the fact that most modern key fobs emit an “unlock” signal continuously, even when the keys are inside your home or pocket.

According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, over 1 million vehicles were stolen in the U.S. in 2022, the highest number since 2008. A significant portion of these thefts involved relay attacks, where criminals use radio repeaters to amplify the signal from your key fob, tricking the car into unlocking and starting.

How a Faraday Backpack Helps

When your key fob is placed inside the signal-blocking compartment of a Faraday backpack, its wireless signal is completely cut off.

This prevents thieves from capturing or amplifying the fob’s signal, rendering these relay attacks useless.

Carrying a Faraday backpack is a simple way for those who park on the street or in shared garages to dramatically reduce the risk of vehicle theft.

Protecting Confidential Data From RFID Skimming

Today’s credit cards, passports, smartphones, and even access badges use RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) chips that constantly emit small amounts of data.

Criminals can use RFID skimming devices, some of which are no larger than a mobile phone, to clone your information in seconds.

FICO reported that card skimming fraud increased by 368% from 2021 to 2022, showing that this method of digital theft is not only real but rapidly growing. The cost of a single compromised record averages $165 per person, making personal and business data breaches both damaging and expensive.

How a Faraday Backpack Helps

Faraday backpacks contain RFID-blocking materials that prevent any signal from entering or exiting the bag’s secured compartments.

This stops skimmers from accessing your data, even in high-risk places like airports, restaurants, ATMs, gas pumps, or public transport, where RFID theft is most likely to occur.

EMI and RFI Shielding for Device Integrity

Devices are vulnerable to electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio-frequency interference (RFI) in high-interference environments, such as hospitals, government offices, research labs, or secure server rooms.

These invisible disruptions can lead to data corruption, device malfunction, or total loss of data integrity.

How a Faraday Backpack Helps

Faraday backpacks prevent interference from impacting your electronics by blocking electromagnetic and radio frequency signals.

This is especially important when transporting sensitive equipment such as encrypted drives, secure communication devices, or lab instrumentation.

Shielding your gear protects against corruption and preserves operational accuracy in any environment where signal interference is a concern.

Defense Against EMP Attacks

Though rare, electromagnetic pulse (EMP) events, whether natural (from solar flares) or man-made (via nuclear or tactical devices), pose a catastrophic risk to electronics. An EMP can destroy devices by overloading circuits with intense bursts of electromagnetic energy.

How a Faraday Backpack Helps

Faraday materials are capable of shielding against EMF and EMP radiation, insulating your devices from damage during such an event. While complete EMP-proofing requires careful sealing and shielding of all device entry points, a high-quality Faraday backpack provides an accessible level of protection for small electronics like smartphones, radios, and SSDs.

SLNT E3 Faraday Backpack: Key Specifications

Specification	Detail
Capacity	23 liters
Dimensions	20.5″ x 12.2″ x 7.1″ (52 x 31 x 18 cm)
Weight	4.6 lbs (2.07 kg)
Material	100% recycled Challenge ECOPAK® Sailcloth with water-resistant coating
Faraday Components	Removable laptop sleeve (fits up to 15″ laptops) and phone sleeve with magnetic attachment
Signal Protection	Cellular, WiFi, Bluetooth, GPS, RFID, NFC, EMP, EMF (100dB+ attenuation)
Compartments	15+ designated storage areas
Price	$339.95

Build Quality and Design

The SLNT E3 is clearly designed to function as a premium everyday and travel backpack while providing a high level of security. The exterior uses recycled Challenge ECOPAK® Sailcloth material that feels tough while maintaining a professional aesthetic.

The black color with subtle branding keeps the bag’s specialized purpose discreet, making it appropriate for professional environments.

Throughout my testing period, I was consistently impressed by the bag’s construction quality. The stitching is precise, YKK weather-resistant zippers operate smoothly, and all hardware (including the Fidlock magnetic closures on the Faraday pouches) feels built to last.

This level of quality is essential given the price point, but it also reflects the serious use cases the bag is designed for.

The bag features a variety of practical design elements that demonstrate thoughtful engineering:

• Two padded grab handles (top and side) provide carrying options
• A magnetic snap sternum strap adds stability for heavier loads
• A luggage pass-through for easy airport navigation
• A dedicated zippered pocket on the shoulder strap for quick-access items
• Molle attachment points for expandability
• A water bottle pocket, though it could benefit from more elasticity

One particularly clever feature is the included dust bag, which doubles as a laundry bag for travel. These small touches indicate SLNT understands its target market of frequent travelers and remote professionals.

Comfort and Ergonomics

For a bag focused on security technology, the SLNT E3 doesn’t compromise on wearability. The back panel features substantial padding with air channels to reduce heat buildup during extended wear.

Testing in summer conditions confirmed the effectiveness of this ventilation system. While no backpack completely eliminates back sweat, the E3 performs better than many competitors in this regard. It helped keep my back relatively dry and sweat-free, even through a three-hour walk in the summer heat.

The shoulder straps feature “thick padding and wide shape” that “positively impact comfort,” as noted by other reviewers. During my testing, I found the straps distributed weight effectively, even when the pack was fully loaded with a laptop, accessories, and everyday carry items.

The sternum strap uses a magnetic closure system rather than traditional plastic clips, which proved surprisingly convenient in practice.

However, some users with smaller frames might find the straps slightly too wide, as they’re designed with a focus on comfort for heavier loads.

The comfort level exceeds expectations for a security-focused backpack that weighs 4.6 pounds empty. The E3 remains comfortable even during all-day wear, crucial for remote professionals carrying their office for extended periods.

Organization and Storage

With 15+ designated compartments, the SLNT E3 offers exceptional organization capabilities. The layout includes:

• A main compartment with ample space for clothing or larger items
• A dedicated laptop compartment with the Faraday sleeve
• A front organizational panel with various pockets for accessories
• Hidden security pockets for valuables
• Quick-access compartments for frequently used items

The organizational panel deserves special mention for its thoughtful design, with dedicated spots for pens, cards, cables, and other small accessories.

This level of organization helps maintain productivity while working remotely, as everything has its place.

One minor drawback is that the bag’s structured design means it doesn’t compress well when not full. However, this same structure helps protect electronics and maintains the bag’s professional appearance.

The Faraday Features: Real-World Performance

The SLNT E3’s core feature is its signal-blocking capability, provided through two removable Faraday pouches, one for a laptop (up to 15″) and another for a smartphone.

These pouches use SLNT’s patented Multishield® technology, which they claim provides 100dB+ attenuation across key frequency ranges.

To validate these claims, I conducted multiple real-world tests:

Test 1: Basic Signal Blocking

In the first test, I placed a fully charged iPhone, with cellular, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth connections active, into the smartphone Faraday pouch.

When attempting to call the phone from a separate device, the call went straight to voicemail with no signs of ringing, indicating that all signals were completely blocked. To monitor how the pouch affected battery life, I left the phone sealed inside for eight hours.

The battery dropped only 3%, significantly less than typical idle drain, confirming that the phone wasn’t actively searching for signals while isolated. This demonstrated not only effective signal blocking but also battery preservation in offline mode.

A similar result was observed when placing a 13-inch MacBook Pro into the laptop Faraday sleeve. Once inside, all wireless functionality, including Wi-Fi auto-connect and Bluetooth scanning, was fully disabled until the device was removed.

Test 2: GPS and Location Services

To test whether GPS signals could be blocked as effectively, I activated location tracking on the iPhone before sealing it inside the Faraday pouch. Then, I drove approximately eight miles across town with the phone inside the pouch.

When I later reviewed the tracking data, the location log showed no updates during transit. It only resumed once the phone was removed from the pouch.

This confirmed that not only were cellular signals blocked, but GPS tracking was also completely disrupted, preventing real-time monitoring or geolocation.

Test 3: Bluetooth Connectivity

For the third test, I paired the iPhone with a set of AirPods and confirmed a stable Bluetooth connection. After placing the phone inside the Faraday pouch, the connection was immediately severed, and the AirPods lost their signal.

Reconnection was not possible until the phone was removed from the pouch. I replicated this test with the laptop and Bluetooth peripherals, including a wireless keyboard and mouse.

In every case, Bluetooth connectivity was disabled the moment the device was sealed in the Faraday compartment. This result is particularly important for anyone concerned about Bluetooth-based tracking or data exfiltration.

Test 4: RFID Protection

To evaluate RFID protection, I placed a contactless credit card and a biometric passport into the Faraday compartments, then used a commercially available RFID scanner to attempt data reads.

When placed inside the Faraday pouches, the scanner failed to detect or read either item, confirming complete RFID shielding.

For comparison, I repeated the test with the same items stored in standard non-shielded compartments of the backpack.

In those cases, the RFID scanner was able to read the card number and passport chip within seconds. This illustrates the importance of using the dedicated Faraday sections for any item containing sensitive wireless data.

The Bottom Line on My Personal Test of the SLNT E3 Faraday Backpack

These tests confirmed that the Faraday pouches deliver their promised signal isolation. According to independent testing from RECOIL OFFGRID, “Simply put, there was no connectivity once placed inside the pouch. There was no cell tower communication, no Wi-Fi connection, and no Bluetooth pairing.”

It’s worth noting that only the removable pouches provide full Faraday protection. The rest of the backpack offers basic RFID shielding but doesn’t block all signals. This design makes sense for practical use, as complete signal blocking throughout the entire bag would prevent notification alerts and find-my-device features from working unless specifically desired.

Military-Grade Protection Claims

SLNT markets their Faraday material as MIL-STD-188-125-2 compliant, a military standard for electromagnetic pulse (EMP) protection.

According to their third-party testing data, their material provides “attenuation between 72dB – 120dB” when tested at frequencies from “10kHz – 1GHz,” which they describe as “exceptional shielding.”

While I couldn’t verify the EMP protection claims (thankfully, no electromagnetic pulses were available for testing), the comprehensive signal blocking observed in practical testing aligns with their technical specifications.

The Faraday pouches effectively create dead zones for all wireless communication when properly sealed.

Practical Applications for Remote Workers

After using the SLNT E3 daily for a full month, several tangible benefits emerged that directly support the modern remote work lifestyle. These advantages go beyond theoretical security as they influence focus, data safety, and even work-life balance in meaningful ways. Below are the most notable use cases, along with practical tips for remote professionals.

Selective Connectivity for Deep Work

The most valuable feature of the SLNT E3 is its ability to give you full control over your device’s connectivity.

By placing your phone, tablet, or laptop into the Faraday pouch during focused work sessions, you can eliminate the temptation and interruptions of calls, pings, and app notifications while still having your devices within arm’s reach if needed.

• Tip: Schedule one or two 90-minute “deep work” blocks each day. Use the Faraday pouches during those times to physically remove digital distractions without powering down devices or relying on “Do Not Disturb” settings that can be easily overridden.

Secure Travel for Sensitive Roles

For remote workers who travel frequently, especially across borders or into high-surveillance environments, the E3 provides a secure way to completely cut off wireless signals. This is particularly relevant for contractors, journalists, or consultants handling proprietary client data.

• Tip: Before crossing a border or entering a high-risk area like an airport, data center, or customs checkpoint, place all devices in the Faraday pouches. This protects you from unauthorized data extraction, passive surveillance, or remote access attempts that may happen without your knowledge.

Privacy During Sensitive Meetings

In a time when spyware and unauthorized app access are real threats, relying solely on software-based protections like disabling mics or cameras may not be enough.

The SLNT E3 allows you to physically isolate your phone, tablet, or laptop during meetings, ensuring absolute privacy.

• Tip: Bring a small labeled pouch or tray to meetings where clients or colleagues can also place their phones in Faraday protection. It sets a tone of trust and professionalism, especially when dealing with NDAs or confidential discussions.

Data Protection in Shared Spaces

Whether working from coffee shops, coworking spaces, or public libraries, remote workers are often within range of bad actors using signal-based proximity attacks like Bluetooth tracking or RFID skimming. Faraday compartments protect devices against passive attacks without requiring constant vigilance.

• Tip: Store your passport, access cards, or any device with Bluetooth, NFC, or RFID in the backpack’s Faraday compartments when not in use. For added protection, enable remote wipe or encryption on your devices in case of theft.

Enforcing Digital Boundaries for Work-Life Balance

One of the most unexpected but powerful effects of using the SLNT E3 was how it helped enforce a clearer boundary between work and personal life. Placing a device into the Faraday pouch became a small ritual that mentally signaled “off the clock.”

• Tip: Use the backpack to signal transitions in your day. When the workday ends, place your phone or work laptop into the pouch, even if just for an hour, to intentionally disconnect. This physical action reinforces digital discipline and reduces anxiety from constant alerts.

Comparison to Standard “Airplane Mode”

A common question I get, especially from security-minded colleagues, is whether a Faraday bag is really necessary. Can’t you just turn your phone off or switch it to airplane mode?

I used to think so too. But after real-world use and testing, the difference is more substantial than it first appears.

Airplane Mode Isn’t Truly Offline

Airplane mode may cut off cellular service, but most devices still allow Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to be re-enabled manually. This means your device can still connect to nearby networks or be paired with other devices, even while in airplane mode.

More importantly, many apps and services continue background activity. GPS, for example, can remain active.

Some modern devices also use assisted-GPS or passive Wi-Fi positioning to quietly gather location data, even when the cellular antenna is off. So while you may think you’re disconnected, your device might still be communicating.

Powered-Off Devices Still Communicate

Turning a device off seems like the ultimate safeguard, but it’s not always enough.

Phones and laptops built with low-power communication capabilities can still emit or receive limited signals while powered down. These features support things like remote wipe, Find My iPhone, or background firmware updates.

It sounds far-fetched, but in security circles, it’s well known that even “off” doesn’t always mean off.

Software Settings Can Be Bypassed

Software-based privacy controls are only as strong as the operating system behind them.

Malware, unauthorized apps, or remote exploits can bypass these controls, re-enabling communication functions without your knowledge.

If you’re handling sensitive data, working in high-risk environments, or simply want full control over your devices, this reliance on system integrity may not be enough.

Why Faraday Protection Makes the Difference

That’s what makes Faraday pouches different: they don’t depend on software. They block all inbound and outbound signals, such as cellular, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, RFID, and NFC, at the physical level.

Whether the device is on, off, or somewhere in between, it’s effectively isolated from the outside world.

Personally, that level of certainty gives me peace of mind. I don’t need to second-guess settings or wonder if a background process is leaking data. If my phone is in the pouch, it’s offline. Period.

When “Good Enough” Isn’t Good Enough

Airplane mode is fine for everyday use. But for situations where privacy, data protection, or peace of mind really matter, a Faraday bag goes several steps further.

For me, it’s about trust. And sometimes, the only way to be sure you’re truly disconnected is to remove the possibility of connection altogether.

Limitations and Considerations

The SLNT E3 isn’t without limitations that potential buyers should consider:

Weight

At 4.6 pounds empty, this is not a lightweight backpack. The security features and durable construction add substantial weight before adding any contents.

Price

At $339.95, the E3 represents a significant investment compared to standard backpacks. However, when viewed as both security equipment and premium carry gear, the price becomes more justifiable.

Practical Tradeoffs

Using the Faraday features means sacrificing some convenience. You won’t receive notifications while devices are in the pouches, and features like Apple’s Find My won’t work. These aren’t flaws but inherent tradeoffs of signal blocking.

Water Bottle Pocket

The side pocket for water bottles could use more elasticity, as slimmer bottles can slip out during movement.

Who Should Consider the SLNT E3 Faraday Backpack?

Based on my testing, the SLNT E3 is best suited for:

• Remote Professionals Handling Sensitive Information: The privacy features provide tangible benefits for consultants, lawyers, healthcare professionals, and others working with confidential data.
• Frequent International Travelers: Those regularly crossing borders or visiting regions with different privacy regulations will appreciate the ability to physically disconnect.
• Privacy-Conscious Individuals: People who value control over their digital footprint and want to limit when and how their devices broadcast data will find the Faraday features genuinely useful.
• Digital Nomads: Professionals who work from varied and sometimes insecure locations will benefit from both the security features and the practical organization.

The backpack is less ideal for those primarily concerned with minimizing weight or working with a tight budget, as there are lighter and less expensive options without the specialized security features.

The Batten Scorecard

Category	Score (1-10)	Notes
Signal Blocking Effectiveness	9.5	Near-perfect isolation in properly closed pouches
Build Quality	9	Premium materials and construction throughout
Comfort	8	Very good for extended wear, despite weight
Organization	9	Exceptional layout with thoughtful compartments
Value	7	Premium price, but delivers on its promises
OVERALL	8.5	A specialized pack that excels for its intended purpose

Final Verdict

The SLNT E3 Faraday Backpack successfully bridges specialized security technology with practical everyday functionality. It’s not just a Faraday bag shaped like a backpack but a genuinely excellent backpack with advanced privacy features.

For remote professionals and digital nomads who value privacy and premium carry gear, the E3 offers a compelling package. Effective signal blocking, thoughtful organization, and professional aesthetics make it a standout option in an increasingly crowded market.

While the price point places it firmly in the premium category, the quality construction suggests this is a pack built to last for years. For those who understand and value the security benefits of physical signal isolation, the SLNT E3 represents a worthwhile investment in both privacy and practical functionality.

• Recommendation: If you regularly work with sensitive information in public spaces or travel frequently across borders, the SLNT E3 Faraday Backpack deserves serious consideration. The peace of mind it provides through guaranteed disconnection, combined with its excellence as an everyday carry pack, makes it a unique offering for security-conscious remote professionals.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Does the SLNT E3 Differ From Cheaper Faraday Bags?

Unlike basic pouches, the SLNT E3 combines rugged materials, removable Faraday sleeves, and ergonomic design, making it practical for daily carry in professional settings.

Can the SLNT E3 Protect Medical Devices Like Pacemakers?

No, the SLNT E3 is not designed to shield or interact with medical devices. It is built to protect electronic devices, not regulate biological equipment.

Is the Backpack Safe to Use With Devices That Use Emergency Features?

Yes, but emergency features like SOS, GPS tracking, and Find My Phone will be disabled while inside the Faraday compartment due to complete signal isolation.

Can You Use the SLNT E3 for International Border Crossings?

Yes, the SLNT E3 is ideal for travel, especially in high-surveillance regions. It offers protection against unauthorized signal interception at borders or checkpoints.

Will Signal Blocking Affect Battery Health Long-Term?

No, blocking signals actually reduces battery drain by preventing devices from constantly searching for a connection, which may help preserve battery health.

Appendix: Testing Methodology

For transparency, here’s an overview of how this review was conducted:

• Testing Period: 4 weeks of daily use
• Environments: Urban coffee shops, airport lounges, co-working spaces, home office, and during transit (planes, trains, automobiles)
• Devices Used: MacBook Pro 14″, iPhone 13 Pro, iPad Air, various accessories
• Signal Testing Equipment: Secondary phone for calling/messaging, WiFi analyzer, Bluetooth scanner app
• Loading Scenarios: Tested with varying weights and load distributions

The review was not sponsored or influenced by SLNT or any affiliated companies. The backpack was purchased at retail price for independent evaluation.

Sources

• How Faraday Cages Work | HowStuffWorks
• ucl.ac.uk/~ucahdhe/14_Chapman_Hewett_Trefethen_FaradayCage.pdf
• How to Protect Yourself from Keyless Car Theft
• Cost of a data breach 2024 | IBM
• US Card Skimming Grew Nearly 5x in 2022, New FICO Data Shows
• Understanding RFID skimming: an infographic
• 99.PDF
• Does Airplane Mode Really Work? | OJE Technology