Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.
| Capacity | 22 L |
| Weight | 1 kg |
| Dimensions | 52×30×21 cm |
| Airline fit | 65% |
| Price | $179 |
| Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus | Feature | Deuter Speedlite 20 |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | S |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 4 |
| Y | Passport | top |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| S | Backpack | S |
| N | Hip Belt | H |
| N | Sternum Strap | S |
| Inside | ||
| 15 | Laptop | 0 |
| 1 | Main Compartments | 2 |
| N | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | 2 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| Venture-weave polyester and leather | 420D and 210D PA Nylon |
| Capacity | 20 L |
| Weight | 0.3 kg |
| Dimensions | 49×26×19 cm |
| Airline fit | 98% |
| Price | $75 |
When it comes to carry-on backpacks, the market can be quite crowded with options. I took the liberty of putting two packs up against each other for comparison's sake, the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus by Bellroy, and the Deuter Speedlite 20 by Deuter. Both of these packs boast promising features, materials, and sizes that cater to a wide range of carrying needs and preferences.
The Bellroy Classic, crafted out of Venture-weave polyester and leather, imparts a sense of quality and durability. It's a robust, sturdy bag that weighs in comparatively at a sturdy 1 pound. The bag is impressively roomy too, offering 22 liters of carrying capacity, comfortably designed to stash away a 15-inch laptop. Reviews have appreciated its clean aesthetics and excellent build, particularly its suitability for everyday work use.
On the other hand, the Deuter Speedlite 20 stands out for its extreme lightness, weighing only 0.3 pounds. Coupled with its V-design, distributing weight evenly to your shoulders, it offers unrivaled comfort. Made of 420D and 210D PA Nylon, it carries a simpler, more streamlined design, with a carrying capacity of 20 liters. It might not compartmentalize a laptop, but its praised ability to serve multiple outdoor adventures without compromising its lightweight stature exhibits versatility.
Here's a succinct comparison:
In essence, both backpacks each carry distinctive advantages. The Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus embodies a solid mix of style, functionality, and durability suited for daily office carry or students. Conversely, Deuter's lightweight Speedlite 20 shines for its uncomplicated, versatile design that effortlessly transforms from an airline personal item to a day hike companion. The decision depends on the specifics of what you are hoping to get out of the product at hand.