Osprey Porter 46 vs. STM Saga
Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.
Feature by feature
| Osprey Porter 46 | Feature | STM Saga |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| S | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 3 |
| N | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| H | Backpack | S |
| H | Hip Belt | N |
| H | Sternum Strap | N |
| Inside | ||
| 1 | Laptop | 0 |
| 3 | Main Compartments | 1 |
| N | Organizer | Y |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | 2 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| Nylon | 100% polyester |
When sizing up the best carry-on backpacks, two models frequent traveller's lips, and these are the Osprey Porter 46 and the STM Saga. Varying in size and weight, material, and capacity, each backpack stands as a formidable contender in their own right.
The Osprey Porter 46, made of resilient nylon, is a beast in the backpack world boasting 46 liters of capacity. This bag measures 23 inches tall, 36 inches wide, and 56 inches deep and weighs a solid 1.5 pounds. The Porter 46 does not skimp on provisions for storing tech -- it includes a laptop compartment for a 1-inch laptop. Remarks by reviewers affirm its old-school, yet effective design and excellent value -- considering its going price of $140 -- nods to its spaciousness and good suspension. Conversely, the STM Saga balances sleekness with practical functionality. Crafted out of 100% polyester, the Saga measures 15 inches tall, 29 inches wide, 44 inches deep, weighs a mere 0.51 pounds, and provides a 20-litre storage capacity. Although apparently lacking a laptop compartment, the Saga nonetheless makes up for it in terms of having multiple functional pockets.
To summarize:
- Osprey Porter 46 is larger (23 x 36 x 56 inches), STM Saga is smaller (15 x 29 x 44 inches).
- Porter 46 is heavier (1.5 pounds), Saga is lighter (0.51 pounds).
- Porter 46 offers more capacity (46 liters), Saga has less (20 liters).
- Porter 46 is compatible with fewer airlines (47%), Saga is more accommodating (84%).
- Porter 46 utilizes Nylon, Saga uses 100% Polyester.
- Porter 46 has a laptop compartment, Saga apparently does not.
In terms of purchase considerations, the Osprey Porter 46 does an impressive job in functionality with its good suspension, spaciousness and lightweight feature for its size. Its clamshell opening makes packing and unpacking fast and convenient. As for the STM Saga we find an emphasis on organization and sleek, modern design. The bag possesses lots of functional pockets keeping your 'stuff' truly organized. Notably, the tech sleeve truly protects your items as it is well padded and suspended. The bag also has good water resistance so you're covered during light drizzle.
At the end of the day, your choice between the Osprey Porter 46 and the STM Saga would depend on what you prioritize as a frequent traveller. Whether it be for size, weight, capacity, material, or other features, both backpacks unquestionably deliver.