Osprey Porter 46 vs. Nomatic McKinnon Cube Pack
Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.
Feature by feature
| Osprey Porter 46 | Feature | Nomatic McKinnon Cube Pack |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| S | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 4 |
| N | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| H | Backpack | S |
| H | Hip Belt | N |
| H | Sternum Strap | S |
| Inside | ||
| 1 | Laptop | 0 |
| 3 | Main Compartments | 1 |
| N | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | 0 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| Nylon | Nylon |
Nomatic McKinnon Cube Pack
| Capacity | 21 L |
| Weight | 0.6 kg |
| Dimensions | 45×34×19 cm |
| Airline fit | 99% |
| Price | $125 |
When it comes to choosing a trusty travel backpack, both the Osprey Porter 46 and the Nomatic McKinnon Cube Pack come to mind. Known for its robust quality, the Osprey Porter 46 is a formidable contender; designed with a spacious 46-liter capacity, this backpack sits comfortably on users of all sizes. Constructed from high-quality nylon complemented by strong zippers, this sturdy gear can withstand the trials of any trip. As its name suggests, the Porter 46 features a laptop compartment that can accommodate laptops up to an inch thick.
On the other hand, the Nomatic McKinnon Cube Pack may be small but it is mighty. Weighing just 0.6 pounds, this backpack is a champion of compact and lightweight design, yet it can still store a respectable 21 liters of gear. What sets this backpack apart is its unique ability to transform from a backpack into a camera cube, adding versatility to its list of strong points. Unfortunately, it lacks a specific compartment for laptop storage.
Here's the summary:
- Osprey Porter 46 is larger (23" x 36" x 56") and heavier (1.5 lbs.) while Nomatic McKinnon Cube Pack is compact (19" x 34" x 45") and lighter (0.6 lbs.).
- Osprey Porter 46 has a 46-liter capacity, compared to Nomatic McKinnon Cube Pack's 21-liter capacity.
- Nomatic McKinnon Cube Pack boasts a camera cube feature not present in Osprey Porter 46.
- Nomatic McKinnon Cube Pack is compatible with nearly all airlines, while Osprey Porter 46 is only compatible with 47% of airlines.
- Osprey Porter 46 has a dedicated laptop compartment that can fit a 1-inch laptop – a feature the Nomatic McKinnon Cube Pack lacks.
The reviews for the Osprey Porter 46 praise it for its expansive carrying capacity and value for money. Many found its clamshell opening style and good suspension a major plus, and view the Porter as an outstanding piece for urban travelers.
The Nomatic McKinnon Cube Pack, however, impresses with the magic trick of a disappearing backpack feature — as it collapses into a camera cube, making it ideal for photographers. Its lightweight design and water resistance features are other key attractions that lure seasoned adventurers.
In sum, when it comes to picking the right carry-on backpack, the Osprey Porter 46 excels for long trips and massive cargo, while the Nomatic McKinnon Cube Pack deserves consideration for its lightweight and multipurpose design.