Osprey Porter 46 vs. Fjallraven Ulvö Rolltop 23
Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.
Feature by feature
| Osprey Porter 46 | Feature | Fjallraven Ulvö Rolltop 23 |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| S | Compression | S |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 2 |
| N | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| H | Backpack | S |
| H | Hip Belt | N |
| H | Sternum Strap | S |
| Inside | ||
| 1 | Laptop | 15 |
| 3 | Main Compartments | 1 |
| N | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | 2 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| Nylon | Bergshell®: 400D 100% polyamide |
Fjallraven Ulvö Rolltop 23
| Capacity | 23 L |
| Weight | 0.65 kg |
| Dimensions | 43×26×12 cm |
| Airline fit | 84% |
| Price | $135 |
When we talk about carry on backpacks, the Osprey Porter 46 and the Fjallraven Ulvö Rolltop 23 are leagues above the rest. To start off, the American made Osprey Porter 46 stands tall at 23 inches, and is a lightweight heavy hitter at just 1.5 pounds. Composed of durable nylon, this backpack snugly fits a 1 inch laptop while providing a spacious 46 liters of storage -- a mammoth compared to other packs. The trade-off is airline compatibility, suitable for only about 47% of airlines. A range of reviewers praise it's capacity, durability and excellent value for its $140 price tag.
Swedish company Fjallraven presents a simple yet refined companion with the Ulvö Rolltop 23. This roll-top backpack scales down to a height of 12 inches, weighs only 0.65 pounds, and is composed of Bergshell®: 400D 100% polyamide. Although its storage capacity is half that of the Porter 46 at 23 liters, it fits a slightly larger 15 inch laptop and is more travel-friendly with 84% airline compatibility. Users applaud it for the comfort, the robust protection for laptops, and not forgetting, the hidden pockets for valuable items.
Comparison Points:
- Size: The Osprey Porter 46 is larger in dimensions, whereas the Fjallraven Ulvö Rolltop 23 offers a more compact solution.
- Weight: The Porter 46 is heavier, but also provides a greater storage capacity.
- Storage Capacity: Osprey's Porter 46 holds a whopping 46 litres versus Fjallraven's Ulvö Rolltop 23 with a 23 liter capacity.
- Material: The Porter 46 is crafted from nylon, while the Ulvö Rolltop 23 is made with a durable polyamide.
Impressively, both backpacks serve different needs effectively. The Porter 46 seems to favor the heavy traveller, accommodating more items and withstanding rough handling with aplomb. Its roomy interior and the clamshell opening ensure a swift packing experience. On the other hand, Fjallraven's Ulvö Rolltop 23 seems to cater to the regular commuter and occasional traveller. The padded, elevated laptop compartment and capacity-variable rolltop is an innovative approach to storage, and the level of comfort Fjallraven is known for is ever evident. Bottom line? Both are top choices, and an ultimate decision will rest on your individual travel needs.