Osprey Porter 46 vs. Timbuk2 Command
Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.
Feature by feature
| Osprey Porter 46 | Feature | Timbuk2 Command |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| 2 | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 1 | Opening | 0 |
| top | Passport | top |
| Y | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| hideable | Backpack | |
| hideable | Hip Belt | N |
| Y | Sternum Strap | removable |
| Inside | ||
| 16in | Laptop | 15in |
| 4 | Main Compartments | 5 |
| Y | Organizer | Y |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| N | Water Bottle Holder | |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| bluesign®-approved Recycled 500D Nylon Packcloth PFC Free DWR | |
Key differences between the Osprey Porter 46 and Timbuk2 Command
- Compression straps: 2 on the Osprey Porter 46; No on the Timbuk2 Command.
- Opening: Clamshell on the Osprey Porter 46; Other on the Timbuk2 Command.
- Luggage passthrough: Yes on the Osprey Porter 46; No on the Timbuk2 Command.
- Hip belt: Hideable on the Osprey Porter 46; No on the Timbuk2 Command.
- Sternum strap: Yes on the Osprey Porter 46; Removable on the Timbuk2 Command.
- Laptop sleeve: 16in on the Osprey Porter 46; 15in on the Timbuk2 Command.
- Main compartments: 4 on the Osprey Porter 46; 5 on the Timbuk2 Command.
Both have: passport pocket, built-in organizer, water resistant.
Which airlines take each bag as a carry-on
We checked both bags against the carry-on size limits of 189 airlines. 116 accept both. 0 accept only the Osprey Porter 46, and 56 accept only the Timbuk2 Command.
Only the Timbuk2 Command fits
Aerolineas Argentinas, Air Baltic, Air China, Air France, Air India, Air Malta, Air Mauritius, Air Serbia, Air Seychelles, Asiana Airlines, ATA Airlines, Belavia, Blue Air, Boliviana de Aviacion, Bulgaria Air, Cayman Airways, China Eastern, Croatia Air, Emirates Airlines, Enter Air, Etihad Airways, flybe, Icelandair, Indigo, InselAir, Jet Airways, Juneyao Airlines, Kenya Airways, KLM, LATAM , Liat Airlines, Luxair, Meridiana Fly, Nordwind Airlines, Oman Air, Pakistan International, Qatar Airways, Royal Brunei Airlines, Royal Jordanian, Ryanair, S7, Scoot, Shandong Airlines, Shenzhen Airlines, Sky Airlines, Sun Express, TAP Air Portugal, TAROM, Tianjin Airlines (A320 & E190), Tiger Airways, TUI, Ukraine International, VIM Airlines (Closed), Volotea, WestJet, Xiamen.
The Osprey Porter 46 and the Timbuk2 Command are two leading contenders in the world of carry-on backpacks, each boasting unique features tailored to the needs of varying travelers. The Porter can be described as a large, sturdy pack, perfect for those who prefer more space for their belongings. Its nylon material, coupled with a laptop compartment made to accommodate a 1 inch laptop, screams durability and adaptability. Praised as a mid-sized bag with excellent organization, solid construction and a resemblance to old-school backpacker gear, it's a dream pack for the urban traveler who values substance over flamboyance.
In comparison, the Timbuk2 Command stands out with its sleek design and smart features. Lighter than the Osprey Porter 46 by 0.4 pounds, it exhibits finesse in organization and security. The Command is surprisingly roomy and considered “mansion roomy,” providing ample space within its 49-inch frame. Its well-cushioned laptop compartment fits up to a 15-inch laptop without compromising the pack's compact exterior. Praised for its TSA-friendly features, it is said to offer one of the best values for its price in the market given its numerous features.
- Size: Osprey Porter 46 is 23 inches tall, 36 inches wide, and 56 inches deep; Timbuk2 Command is 49 inches tall, 34 inches wide, and 14 inches deep.
- Weight: Osprey Porter 46 weighs 1.5 pounds while Timbuk2 Command weighs 1.1 pounds.
- Capacity: Osprey Porter 46 offers 46 liters of carrying capacity; Timbuk2 Command provides 32 liters of space.
- Airline Compatibility: The Porter 46 is compatible with 47% of airlines, whereas the Command is compatible with 98% of airlines.
- Laptop Compartment Size: The Porter 46 can accommodate a 1 inch laptop; the Command can hold a 15-inch laptop.
When it comes to choosing between the Porter 46 and the Command, the decision ultimately comes down to individual preferences and needs. If you tend to overpack and prefer a pack that can endure rough handling, the Porter 46 offers exceptional value. With its ability to be carried from both sides, its vast capacity and durability, it doesn't fail to impress. Conversely, the Command is a boon for organized, tech-savvy travelers. It shines in terms of form, function, and convenience, rendering it a reliable travel companion, especially for frequent flyers. All you have to do is figure out which one sounds like your dream backpack. They're both sturdy, functional, and have their unique advantages. Happy packing!