Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.
| Capacity | 22 L |
| Weight | 1.7 kg |
| Dimensions | 40×28×21 cm |
| Airline fit | 100% |
| Price | $120 |
| Greenroom136 Rainmaker | Feature | Tom Bihn Aeronaut 30L |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| S | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 0 |
| side | Passport | side |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| S | Backpack | H |
| N | Hip Belt | R |
| S | Sternum Strap | R |
| Inside | ||
| 15 | Laptop | |
| 3 | Main Compartments | 5 |
| Y | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | 0 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 1000D Cordura | 1050 denier ballistic nylonOR ultralight 400d Halcyon/420d nylon ripstop 200 denier Halcyon/nylon ripstop fabric lining |
| Capacity | 30 L |
| Weight | 1.3 kg |
| Dimensions | 51×33×21 cm |
| Airline fit | 98% |
| Price | $290 |
There is a robust market for quality backpacks, where discerning customers look for blend of utility, durability, and style. Two options that standout are the Greenroom136 Rainmaker from Malaysian firm Greenroom136 and the American made Tom Bihn Aeronaut 30L. Each boasts impressive specs and features, proving they're serious players in the high-grade carry-on backpack game. Let's take a closer look at how they measure up in this bean-counter's boxing ring.
The Rainmaker and the Aeronaut 30L have significantly different dimensions. The Rainmaker, a smaller bag, measures 40 x 28 x 21 inches, and weighs a breezy 1.7 pounds. Constructed from 1000D Cordura, the bag is compatible with all airlines and has a capacity of 22 liters, just enough to hit that Goldilocks zone of comfort and practicality. As the name suggests, the Aeronaut 30L is a little bit larger and weighs slightly less at 1.3 pounds. It measures a whopping 51 x 33 x 21 inches and can carry 30 liters, pushing the limit a tad at the cost of a 2% airline compatibility compromise.
With functionality in mind, the Rainmaker boasts a laptop compartment that fits up to a 15 inch laptop, ticking a box that the Aeronaut fails to attend. Reviewers praise the Rainmaker's superior function and customizability, calling it a "solid pack" and "the complete package" for everyday carry. On the other hand, reviewers also laud the Aeronaut for its versatility, reliability, and quality of materials, marking it perfect for minimal plane travel and short weekend trips. While both bags come highly recommended, it seems the Rainmaker might be a better fit for those needing to shuttle tech, while the Aeronaut might appeal more to light travelers or weekenders.
In terms of value for money, the Rainmaker offers an affordable option without compromising on quality, earning it the reputation of being "one of the best value bags on the market". The Aeronuat, both a higher-capacity bag with reliable build, is praised extensively for its top-notch quality, and while it may cost more, reviewers believe it's worth every penny. Ultimately, the choice between the Greenroom136 Rainmaker and the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 30L boils down to the amount you're willing to shell out and the specific features you cannot do without.