Osprey Porter 46 vs. 5.11 Rush 12
Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.
Feature by feature
| Osprey Porter 46 | Feature | 5.11 Rush 12 |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| 2 | Compression | 2 |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 1 | Opening | 1 |
| top | Passport | top |
| Y | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| hideable | Backpack | Y |
| hideable | Hip Belt | removable |
| Y | Sternum Strap | removable |
| Inside | ||
| 16in | Laptop | N |
| 4 | Main Compartments | 4 |
| Y | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| N | Water Bottle Holder | N |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| bluesign®-approved Recycled 500D Nylon Packcloth PFC Free DWR | Water-resistant 1050D nylon |
There's a quite few differences between the Osprey Porter 46 and the 5.11 Rush 12, not least of which is size. The Porter 46 is significantly larger with a capacity of 46 liters versus the Rush's 24 liters, hence their respective names. This means you can pack a lot more in the Porter 46, though that might actually be a disadvantage if you're a light traveler. The Porter 46 is also a bit heavier, at 1.5 pounds compared to the Rush's slim 1.2 pounds. But the real kicker is that the Rush 12 is compatible with 100% of airlines, while the Porter 46 only fits the bill for 47% of them.
Here's the summary of differences between the two:
- Size: Porter 46: 23" x 36" x 56", 46 liters. Rush 12: 46" x 28" x 17", 24 liters.
- Weight: Porter 46: 1.5 lbs. Rush 12: 1.2 lbs.
- Compatibility: Porter 46: 47% of airlines. Rush 12: 100% of airlines.
- Material: Porter 46: Nylon. Rush 12: Water-resistant 1050D nylon.
- Laptop compartment: Porter 46: Fits a 1" laptop. Rush 12: Fits a 15" laptop.
On to aesthetics and features. Both bags are undeniably rugged, but the Porter 46 has a bit of an old-school backpacker look that some might appreciate. Reviewers love the Porter's durability, functionality, and solid construction. They've noted that it's a great gear-hauling travel backpack and it offers good suspension. They even used words like "phenomenal" and "impressive" to describe it. The Rush 12, on the other hand, might impress you with its water-resistant material, sturdy construction and exceptional durability, some even said they believe it would last for a lifetime.
Both bags have their quirks, like the Porter 46's clamshell opening and compression strap to keep things tidy, or the Rush 12's highly customizable front compartment and MOLLE attachments. When it comes down to it, the choice between the Porter 46 and the Rush 12 will largely depend on your needs and travel habits. If you're a frequent flyer who wants a small, lightweight bag that will always fit in the overhead bin, go for the Rush 12. If you're headed out on long trips or need some serious gear storage, the Porter 46 might be your ticket.