Osprey Porter 46 vs. Patagonia Black Hole® MLC® 45L
Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.
Feature by feature
| Osprey Porter 46 | Feature | Patagonia Black Hole® MLC® 45L |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| 2 | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 1 | Opening | 1 |
| top | Passport | top |
| Y | Passthrough | Y |
| Carry | ||
| hideable | Backpack | Y |
| hideable | Hip Belt | N |
| Y | Sternum Strap | Y |
| Inside | ||
| 16in | Laptop | 15in |
| 4 | Main Compartments | 5 |
| Y | Organizer | N |
| 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 DWR | 14.1-oz 900-denier 100% postconsumer recycled polyester ripstop with a postindustrial recycled TPU-film laminate |
Patagonia Black Hole® MLC® 45L
| Capacity | 45 L |
| Weight | 1.7 kg |
| Dimensions | 56×37×19 cm |
| Airline fit | 26% |
| Price | $240 |
The Porter 46 by Osprey and the Black Hole® MLC® 45L by Patagonia are both contenders for the most practical carry on backpack. They are similar in many ways but each offers features that set them apart from the other.
The Osprey Porter 46 is a robust pack with a considerable capacity of 46 liters. It brings with it a high level of durability and versatility. Whether you need to fill it to the brim or cinch it down for a lighter load, it stands up to the rigors of travel. It's compatible with 47% of airlines, so it's a good choice for those who don't mind checking their backpack at times. It's made of sturdy Nylon, includes a laptop compartment that fits up to 15-inch laptops, and is acknowledged by reviewers for its ample space and quality design.
The Patagonia Black Hole® MLC® 45L, on the other hand, pulls ahead in terms of its high compatibility with 91% of airlines. This bag, made of tough 900-denier 100% postconsumer recycled polyester ripstop and 200-denier 100% recycled polyester, is a serious contender for the eco-conscious traveller. It’s slightly heavier than the Porter 46, weighing in at 1.7 pounds but still light enough to not bog you down on your travels. It holds slightly less at 45 liters, but its laptop compartment can handle a 15-inch laptop just as well as the Osprey. Reviewers highlight its versatility, its durability, and its uniquely innovative internal organizing pockets.
Comparison points:
- Both backpacks offer vast capacity (Osprey Porter 46: 46L, Patagonia Black Hole® MLC® 45L :45L)
- Patagonia Black Hole® MLC® 45L is compatible with nearly all airlines, while Osprey Porter 46 lags behind at 47% compatibility
- Both contain a laptop compartment that fits up to 15-inch laptops
- Osprey Porter 46 is constructed with durable Nylon while the Patagonia Black Hole® MLC® 45L is made of 900-denier 100% postconsumer recycled polyester ripstop and 200-denier 100% recycled polyester
- Osprey Porter 46 is slightly lighter (1.5 lbs) compared to Patagonia Black Hole® MLC® 45L (1.7 lbs)
Choose between these two backpacks thoughtfully. The Osprey Porter 46 offers a high storage capacity and sturdy structure. Meanwhile, the Patagonia Black Hole® MLC® 45L shines in terms of material, eco-friendliness, and airline compatibility. In the end, your final selection will come down to your personal travel needs and preferences.