Greenroom136 Rainmaker vs. Kathmandu Shuttle 40L Convertible Backpack Cargo
Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.
Greenroom136 Rainmaker
| Capacity | 22 L |
| Weight | 1.7 kg |
| Dimensions | 40×28×21 cm |
| Airline fit | 100% |
| Price | $120 |
Feature by feature
| Greenroom136 Rainmaker | Feature | Kathmandu Shuttle 40L Convertible Backpack Cargo |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| S | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 1 |
| side | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| S | Backpack | S |
| N | Hip Belt | N |
| S | Sternum Strap | N |
| Inside | ||
| 15 | Laptop | 0 |
| 3 | Main Compartments | 1 |
| Y | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | 0 |
| Y | Water Resistant | N |
| Material | |
| 1000D Cordura | Nylon 840D JR Ballistic 2xPU, Polyester 135D 2xPU |
Kathmandu Shuttle 40L Convertible Backpack Cargo
| Capacity | 40 L |
| Weight | 0.8 kg |
| Dimensions | 60×32×24 cm |
| Airline fit | 19% |
| Price | $130 |
Breaking down the raw comparisons between the Greenroom136 Rainmaker and the Kathmandu Shuttle 40L Convertible, these two backpacks are notable in their own realms. The Rainmaker flaunts an impressive height of 40 inches, accompanied by a width and depth of 28 and 21 inches respectively. This makes it slightly taller than the Kathmandu Shuttle convertible which comes in at 24 inches tall, 32 inches wide, and 60 inches deep. A negligible weight difference exists between these two, with the Rainmaker weighing 1.7 pounds and the Shuttle coming in lighter at 0.8 pounds.
Comparing cargo capacity, the Greenroom136 Rainmaker may seem a bit underwhelming with only 22 liters, especially when placed side-by-side with the Kathmandu’s impressive 40-liter capacity. However, the Rainmaker redeems itself by boasting universal airline compatibility as opposed to the Shuttle which only complies with 19% of airlines. Material is also a factor for consideration. The Rainmaker is heftily armed with a 1000D Cordura shell, while the Shuttle prides itself with a durable Nylon 840D JR Ballistic 2xPU, Polyester 135D 2xPU body.
Here's a summary of key differences:
- Size: Rainmaker is taller, Shuttle is wider and deeper.
- Weight: Rainmaker is heavier at 1.7 pounds compared to Shuttle’s 0.8 pounds.
- Capacity: Shuttle wins with 40 liters, Rainmaker sits at 22 liters.
- Airline compatibility: Rainmaker is compatible with 100% of airlines, Shuttle agrees with 19%.
- Material: Rainmaker uses 1000D Cordura, Shuttle uses a Nylon/Polyester blend.
- Laptop compartment: Rainmaker can fit a 15 inch laptop, Shuttle doesn’t have a designated space.
As observed by a reviewer, the Rainmaker is "a solid pack that values function above all else". Its customizability, sturdy, water-resistant exterior, and smart organization system renders it a versatile option. This is echoed by another reviewer as a "best value bag on the market". The Shuttle, on its part, has been commended for its versatility, large opening, lockable zippers, and multiple carrying modes – it can be a duffle bag, backpack, or messenger bag in a heartbeat. Ultimately, it is the traveler who needs to lean into a personal preference of function, design, or capacity.