Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus vs. Amazon Basics Slim Carry On Laptop Travel Overnight Backpack

You'd be hard pressed to find two backpacks more different than the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus and the Amazon Basics Slim Carry On Travel Backpack. While they're both about the same size and classed as "carry on", the form and function of each vary wildly. The Classic Backpack Plus emphasises elegance and thoughtful design, while the Amazon Basics option is more streamlined and perhaps more practical. It's analogous to comparing a classic Oxford brogue to a training shoe. - One's clearly more refined, while the other serves a straightforward, utilitarian purpose.

The Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus is 21 inches tall, 30 inches wide, and 52 inches deep. It's made of Venture-weave polyester and leather, and while it weighs a featherlight 1lb, it can carry 22 liters of...well, whatever you might need to lug around. It'll fit a 15 inch laptop too! However, the bag's compatibility with airlines is perhaps it's Achilles heel, given it is compatible with only 65% of airlines. Conversely, the Amazon Basics option mirrors the Classic in height, but is larger on the width and depth fronts at 34 inches and 51 inches respectively. Despite its larger size, it weighs only 1.5 lbs, and furthermore, substantially outdoes the Classic with a 30-liter capacity. Massive bonus? This pack is compatible with 98% of airlines and fits a 17 inch laptop!

• Size: Both backpacks have the same height, with the Amazon Basics backpack commanding more width and depth.
• Weight: At first glance, it would seem the Bellroy is lighter, unless you consider the larger size of the Amazon Basics - making it more efficient in weight to volume ratio.
• Capacity: Here the Amazon Basics backpack leaps ahead with 8 more liters of space.
• Material: Where the Bellroy holds its ground is elegance. The venture-weave polyester and leather finish is decidedly more sophisticated than the utilitarian 100% polyester Amazon Basics.
• Compatibility: If you're a frequent flyer, the Amazon Basics' universal compatibility is a clear winner.

Reviewers often commend the Classic for its sleek design and its "inspiring message" in the laptop bag. Often referred to as "the perfect everyday carry", this backpack is prized for its "balance of form and function" plus its excellent materials and craftsmanship. On the other hand, the Amazon Basics is hailed for its affordability even with the features packed into it. Reviewers rave about its streamlined design and versatility - it can function as both a daypack and a travel backpack, without any pouches or compartments sticking out.

All in all, make your pick based on your needs. If you need a chic backpack that turns heads in the office and at the airport, the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus is your best bet. If you're after a more pragmatic approach - higher storage, more compatibility and lower price point, the Amazon Basics Slim Carry On Laptop Travel Overnight Backpack is the one. Every backpack serves its purpose - you just need to find yours.