Osprey Porter 46 vs. Alpha One-Niner Recon Nine Evade 1.5
Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.
Feature by feature
| Osprey Porter 46 | Feature | Alpha One-Niner Recon Nine Evade 1.5 |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| 2 | Compression | Y |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 1 | Opening | 0 |
| top | Passport | back |
| Y | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| hideable | Backpack | Y |
| hideable | Hip Belt | N |
| Y | Sternum Strap | removable |
| Inside | ||
| 16in | Laptop | 17in |
| 4 | Main Compartments | 5 |
| Y | Organizer | Y |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| N | Water Bottle Holder | 2 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| bluesign®-approved Recycled 500D Nylon Packcloth PFC Free DWR | Solid Color 500D Nylonor Camouflage 500D Nylon Corduraor 420D Diamond Ripstop Nylon |
Alpha One-Niner Recon Nine Evade 1.5
| Capacity | 27 L |
| Weight | 1.6 kg |
| Dimensions | 47×31×18 cm |
| Airline fit | 92% |
| Price | $160 |
Key differences between the Osprey Porter 46 and Alpha One-Niner Recon Nine Evade 1.5
- Compression straps: 2 on the Osprey Porter 46; Yes on the Alpha One-Niner Recon Nine Evade 1.5.
- Opening: Clamshell on the Osprey Porter 46; Other on the Alpha One-Niner Recon Nine Evade 1.5.
- Passport pocket: Top on the Osprey Porter 46; Back on the Alpha One-Niner Recon Nine Evade 1.5.
- Luggage passthrough: Yes on the Osprey Porter 46; No on the Alpha One-Niner Recon Nine Evade 1.5.
- Backpack straps: Hideable on the Osprey Porter 46; Yes on the Alpha One-Niner Recon Nine Evade 1.5.
- Hip belt: Hideable on the Osprey Porter 46; No on the Alpha One-Niner Recon Nine Evade 1.5.
- Sternum strap: Yes on the Osprey Porter 46; Removable on the Alpha One-Niner Recon Nine Evade 1.5.
- Laptop sleeve: 16in on the Osprey Porter 46; 17in on the Alpha One-Niner Recon Nine Evade 1.5.
- Main compartments: 4 on the Osprey Porter 46; 5 on the Alpha One-Niner Recon Nine Evade 1.5.
- Water bottle pockets: No on the Osprey Porter 46; 2 on the Alpha One-Niner Recon Nine Evade 1.5.
Both have: 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 58 accept only the Alpha One-Niner Recon Nine Evade 1.5.
Only the Alpha One-Niner Recon Nine Evade 1.5 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, Regional Express, 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), Virgin Australia, Volotea, WestJet, Xiamen.
The Osprey Porter 46 is a tall, wide, and deep backpack that is best suited for travellers who prefer to pack heavy or for long trips. Constructed from strong and durable nylon, it is not only lightweight but offers an impressive 46-litre carrying capacity, making it a great choice for those whose carrying needs are above the average. The laptop compartment can accommodate a 1-inch laptop and is sure to keep it secure. However, it is crucial to consider its compatibility with airlines. It's compatible with almost half of them globally, but frequent flyers on specific airlines may encounter issues. Overall, it is a valuable choice at the price of $140, known for its reliability and spaciousness.
The Alpha One-Niner Recon Nine Evade 1.5, although lesser in height and capacity but greater in depth, is another great option. Despite its smaller 27-litre capacity, it distinguishes itself with its practicality and versatility. This backpack is made from either Solid Color 500D Nylon, Camouflage 500D Nylon Cordura, or 420D Diamond Ripstop Nylon, guaranteeing its durability. Furthermore, it can cinch down and accommodate a 17-inch laptop. What makes it stand out is its compatibility with airlines. Reportedly fitting the standards of 98% of airlines, it's a solid option for regular travellers.
- Osprey Porter 46: Height = 23", Width = 36", Depth = 56", Weight = 1.5 pounds, Capacity = 46 litres, Airline compatibility = 47%, Material = Nylon, Laptop Compatibility = 1 inch
- Alpha One-Niner Recon Nine Evade 1.5: Height = 47", Width = 31", Depth = 18", Weight = 1.6 pounds, Capacity = 27 litres, Airline compatibility = 98%, Material = Solid Color 500D Nylon/Camouflage 500D Nylon Cordura/420D Diamond Ripstop Nylon, Laptop Compatibility = 17 inches
As we compare, it's evident that both bags have their unique strengths. The Porter 46 may be ideal for those needing more spacious compartments and defined organization. More so, if you are on the go and require quick packing and unpacking. Conversely, the Evade 1.5 appears to be compact and versatile. It also has a provision for a concealed carry compartment. Beyond its design, however, its greatest advantage lies in its universal airline acceptance. It may be a more suitable option for those frequently on airplanes.
In conclusion, the choice between the Osprey Porter 46 and the Alpha One-Niner Recon Nine Evade 1.5 should ultimately be guided by individual needs and primary usage. While the former is more accommodating in terms of storage and is valued for its sufficient suspension and light weight, the latter wins points for its superior durability, outstanding airline compatibility, and valuable internal features such as the admin pocket. Choose wisely according to your needs. Both are promising in their own regard.