Osprey Porter 46 vs. Tom Bihn Brain Bag
Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.
Feature by feature
| Osprey Porter 46 | Feature | Tom Bihn Brain Bag |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| S | Compression | S |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 4 |
| N | Passport | top |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| H | Backpack | S |
| H | Hip Belt | N |
| H | Sternum Strap | R |
| Inside | ||
| 1 | Laptop | 0 |
| 3 | Main Compartments | 6 |
| N | Organizer | Y |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | 2 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| Nylon | bluesign® certified 525 denier 2x2 Ballistic nylon exterior lined with bluesign® certified 210 denier 2x2 Ballistic nylon |
Tom Bihn Brain Bag
| Capacity | 36 L |
| Weight | 1.3 kg |
| Dimensions | 46×36×24 cm |
| Airline fit | 92% |
| Price | $200 |
When it comes to the right carry-on backpack, everyone has their own needs to consider. One might prefer larger, roomy storage, while others lean toward lightweight and easily transportable. Two widely chosen carry-on packs, the Osprey Porter 46 and the Tom Bihn Brain Bag, offer unique features that distinguish them from the competition.
Designed for the gear-toting traveller, the Osprey Porter 46 translates simplicity into functional prowess. This backpack hits all the high notes for the unfussy, straight-to-business individuals out there, with it's rigid and durable form. A notable feature includes a laptop compartment specifically designed for a 1-inch laptop. It's slightly heavier than its Bihn counterpart, but its 46-liter capacity makes it an excellent choice for those who tend to carry extra gear or those long stays.
On the other hand, the Tom Bihn Brain Bag offers a more versatile approach. This bag is a little lighter, making it ideal for those who place portability above all else. The Brain Bag does fall short in capacity with only 36 liters, but stays ahead in terms of airline compatibility, and it's built from certified 525 denier 2x2 Ballistic nylon, ensuring its durability and longevity.
Here is a nutshell rundown of the key difference between the two:
- Size: Porter 46 is smaller at 23" x 36" x 56", while the Brain Bag is larger at 46" x 36" x 24"
- Weight: Porter 46 is heavier at 1.5 pounds compared to Brain Bag's 1.3 pounds
- Capacity: Porter 46 offers greater capacity at 46 liters versus Brain Bag's 36 liters
- Compatibility: Brain Bag is found to be compatible with 92% of airlines, substantially more than Porter 46's 47%
- Material: Porter 46 is made of Nylon, while Brain Bag is made of certified 525 denier 2x2 Ballistic nylon
- Laptop Compartment: Porter 46 can fit a 1-inch laptop, while Brain Bag has no laptop space
- Reviews: The Porter 46 receives consistent praise for its durability, value, and size. The Brain Bag is applauded for its comfort and functional setup.
Both backpacks have been praised for their functional design and utility. But the deciding factor between the Osprey Porter 46 and the Tom Bihn Brain Bag will, at the end of the day, depend on your unique travel goals and packing needs.