Osprey Porter 46 vs. Arktype Dashpack II

Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.

Osprey Porter 46

Front facing view of the Osprey Porter 46
Capacity46 L
Weight1.5 kg
Dimensions55×36×23 cm
Airline fit61%
Price$185

Feature by feature

Osprey Porter 46FeatureArktype Dashpack II
Storage
2 Compression 2
None Expanded Capacity None
1 Opening 4
top Passport N
Y Passthrough N
Carry
hideable Backpack Y
hideable Hip Belt N
Y Sternum Strap N
Inside
16in Laptop 13in
4 Main Compartments 3
Y Organizer Y
Outside
× Hard Shell ×
N Rain-fly N
N Water Bottle Holder 2, side
Y Water Resistant Y
Material
bluesign®-approved Recycled 500D Nylon Packcloth PFC Free DWR1680D DWR ballistic nylon YKK AquaGuard zippers Interior reinforced with 210D double-walled ripstop nylon

Arktype Dashpack II

Front facing view of the Arktype Dashpack II
Capacity15 L
Weight0.9 kg
Dimensions47×28×11 cm
Airline fit93%
Price$198

When sizing up the Osprey Porter 46 and the Arktype Dashpack II, there are a few marked differences to address. The Porter 46, as its name suggests, is a larger pack with a capacity of 46 liters perfect for the traveller who prefers the charm of a mid-sized carry-on. Unlike the Dashpack II, the Porter offers a bit more heft in the carrying capacity department. The Porter 46 has a laptop compartment that fits a 1-inch laptop. In terms of material, the Porter 46 is made from a durable and resilient Nylon, where the Dashpack II boasts 1680D DWR ballistic nylon, a material known for its exceptional strength and water-resistance.

On the other hand, the Arktype Dashpack II, the smaller in size and lighter in weight, offers only 15 liters of carrying capacity but scores higher points in portability. Seen as a non-intrusive addition to your daily commute or even a weekend getaway, the Dashpack II offers easy throw-on-and-go convenience. The Dashpack II also has the added advantage of compatibility with a larger number of airlines, tallying in at 99% compared to Porter 46's 47%.

In the end, the decision boils down to your specific needs- whether you're comfortable with carrying a larger, more robust pack or, conversely, prefer the slickness and size of a smaller pack that still performs under pressure. As per the cordial words of a reviewer, "For better or worse, the Osprey Porter 46 is a big pack with a big capacity. Bulk it up or cinch it down, the Porter is a durable option for those who tend to carry more", the Porter 46 is perfect for the avid adventurer. But if the minimalist, modern styling of the Dashpack II piques your interest, it surely won't disappoint in terms of organization and portability. As another reviewer puts it, "I have found myself carrying the Dashpack to places I wouldn’t normally carry a pack. It’s so small and easy to just grab why wouldn’t I? The Arktype Dashpack is a great minimalist pack." As always, the choice is yours.