When you are out and about in the wilderness, you need all sorts of things to stay safe and healthy. From water and snacks to shovels and maps, there is no shortage of supplies that you need, which is why no outdoor adventure is complete without the right pack to carry your supplies in. One of the biggest challenges is finding the right one, especially when considering the battle between the Deuter vs. Osprey.
I have spent years and money trying to find the best of the best. With some trial and error, feature considerations, and more, I have reached a conclusion.
When it comes to features, storage, capacities, and additional features, Deuter is the clear winner. However, I have taken the time to provide you with a rundown of the options available to ensure you make the right decision.
Osprey Backpacks: A Brief History
In my time searching online, I have discovered that when you search for backpack recommendations online, you’ll find it difficult to avoid the name Osprey.
This is an American brand that was established in California in 1974. While the company began small, with a dedication to success, the company is now known for manufacturing some of the highest quality, most durable backpacks available today.
Through the years, Osprey has made improvements to its products. For example, in 1976, the company created backpacks featuring mesh panels, which were more breathable than prior designs. Then, in 1993, a backpack was designed just for women, called the Isis design. Along with new styles of backpacks, new features and details were added, as well. This included things like custom molded zipper hip-belt pockets and hydration packs. You can learn more about Osprey’s history here.
Deuter Backpacks: A Brief History
Deuter is a German-founded company that started in 1898. While the company specializes mainly in backpacks today, in the past, Deuter also offered mail bags, sacks, and smaller carry packs. The designs offered by this brand were so popular in the early part of the 1900s the company was contracted to create sacks for the Bavarian Royal Mail.
Shortly after that, the military requested products, including backpacks, belts, knapsacks, and mess tents. Along with the quality of the products, Deuter backpacks is one of just a few brands that focus on eco-friendly production methods by offering recyclable bags and using recyclable materials.
Features: Face to Face
Full-Size Backpacks
Osprey Xenith 75 vs Deuter Aircontact 75+10
Osprey’s Xenith 75 backpack features three sizes, ranging from 75 liters (16gal) to 83 liters (18 gal), with the total weight being from 5 lbs 2 oz (2.3 kg) to 5 lbs 9 oz (2.5 kg).
The Deuter Aircontact 75+10 comes in one size, 85 liters (22.5 gal) and weighs 6 lbs 13 oz (3 kg).
Size Considerations
Both packs are roomy and perfect for packing in everything you need during your outdoor excursion. Each pack also comes with a 75-liter (16 gal) base volume capacity. While this is true, the Deuter Aircontact offers a 10-liter (2.6 gal) additional capacity over the counterpart, thanks to the included extendable lid. These additional liters of storage can make a huge difference when it comes to storage space.
The Osprey Xenith is slightly lighter, but only by a few ounces, so you likely won’t notice this difference much.
Color Options
You can purchase the Osprey Xenith in three colors: tektite grey, graphite grey, and Mediterranean blue.
You can purchase the Deuter Aircontact in only one color, cordial arctic navy blue.
Organization and Storage
Purchasing the Osprey Xenith means you have multiple external storage compartments and zippered pockets. You will find two spacious pockets in the front, a zip-up main compartment with several access points, a sleeping bag compartment, a three-liter hydration reservoir sleeve, and zippered hip-belt pocket. It also offers a detachable top pocket that can double as a lumbar packet if needed.
With the Deuter backpack, you have plenty of storage, too. The lid expands, offering ten additional liters on top of the 75-liter (16 gal) carrying capacity. Along with that, you get a zippered map pocket, hip-belt slot, bottom sleeping bag compartment, dual side stretch pockets, and top lid zippered pockets.
The Winner
While both options have a lot to offer, when it comes to heavy loads and weights, you can’t go wrong with the Deuter Aircontact comes out on top with additional carrying capacity in this Deuter and Osprey backpack comparison.
Travel Backpacks
Osprey Porter 46 vs Deuter Transit 50
If you search for travel backpacks, the Deuter Transit 50 and Osprey Porter 46 are some of the top options from each brand.
Size Considerations
The capacities of the travel packs are a top consideration for most people, impacting the price you pay. The Osprey Porter provides a 46-liter (12 gal) capacity, which gives you more than enough room for your travel documents, a few devices, and clothing changes. You can also purchase a 65-liter (17 gal) size for longer trips.
The Transit 50 is considered one of the top options offered by Deuter. While it’s slightly smaller than the Porter 46, it still has plenty of capacity to hold all the essentials. The Deuter version is also slightly taller but slimmer in depth and width.
Organization and Storage
When you start to compare storage space inside the bag, the Osprey offers a bit more regarding the pockets. Along with the bigger main area, there is also a panel in the back, fully protected, where you can store your tablet or laptop.
You will also find a top zippered pocket for your toiletries and other essentials and a front panel to stow your travel documents and books. You also have access to a few internal pockets for anything that requires a bit more security.
With the Deuter travel pack, you have a larger main area and a bottom compartment with a removable separator to ensure easy storage. You also have stretch, mesh side pockets, and water bottle pockets for your convenience.
Durability and Materials
When it comes to types of backpacks, having a durable one that will last is a must. The Porter 46 from Osprey uses only the highest quality materials. The primary body is a nylon packcloth, which is strong and thick. The bottom and accents are made with a nylon wave ripstop to help reduce abrasions and tearing.
The Transit 50 uses a thick and strong material, too; however, the nylon has been replaced with a unique Deuter-Super-Polytex. This is 600D polyester that has a thick PU coating. The material is extremely strong but also very lightweight. Nylon is mixed in, too, which helps reduce abrasions while carrying the pack.
The Winner
While both the Osprey and Deuter travel backpacks have a lot to offer, the Deuter comes out on top in the travel backpack competition. Thanks to the unique design and material used, this pack is built to stand up to ongoing use and abuse.
Hiking Backpacks
Osprey Stratos 36 vs. Deuter ACT Trail 30
The Osprey Stratos 36 backpack comes in 36 liters (9 gal) and 33-liter sizes (8 gal), while the Deuter ACT Trail 30 is available in just one size, 30 (7 gal) liters. The Osprey pack is slightly heavier than Deuter’s option, and Deuter has more storage capacity than the Osprey.
Size Considerations
The Osprey Stratos 36 is considered the larger option of the two. It is deeper and wider and has 6-liter (1.5 gal) more volume than the Deuter ACT Trail 30. The total 36-liter (9 gal) capacity ensures you can take everything you want and need along on your outdoor adventure.
If you appreciate a more compact hiking pack, the Deuter ACT Trail’s 30-liter (7 gal) holding capacity is just enough to take along all the essentials.
It’s important to note that since the Stratos 36 is larger in size, it only makes sense that it would be heavier too. However, at 3 pounds (1.3 kg) , it is just slightly heavier than the 2.65 pounds (1.2 kg) of the Deuter.
Color Options
If you opt for the Osprey Stratos, you will find three colors to choose from. These include gators green, beet red, and eclipse blue.
However, Deuter offers even more color combos. This includes spring-midnight, midnight-ocean, black-granite, and arctic-fire.
Durability and Material
The Osprey Stratos is designed with a resilient structure and is tear-resistant, thanks to the blend of nylon fabrics.
However, the Deuter ACT Trail is just as robust, lightweight, and abrasion-resistant thanks to the use of unique Polyester-Polyamide material.
Organization and Storage
While the Deuter ACT Trail offers a compact construction, it also has various pockets and storage compartments. This includes stretch side pockets, zippered map pocket, a wet/dry compartment, and a few divisions in the main compartment.
The Stratos is made for superior inside storage and a balanced load. It offers users a multi-access main compartment, side mesh pockets, two zippered hip-belt pockets, and a compartment for your sleeping bag.
The Winner
Again, in the competition of Osprey vs. Deuter, the Deuter comes out on top again. This bag’s lightweight nature and durable straps make it perfect for anything you may encounter during your time in the great outdoors. Deuter also offers Deuter Kid Comfort bag options and a child carrier pack.
Conclusion
Use Deuter backpacks if:
- You want durable, innovative materials not offered by other backpack brands.
- You are ready to enjoy a lightweight pack that can stand up to the outdoor elements.
- You are looking for affordable prices and high durability.
Use Osprey backpacks if:
- You want additional storage pockets for keeping things safe and dry.
- You don’t mind spending a little more on a backpack.
- You are looking for an array of style options to choose from.
Remember, when it comes to Deuter vs. Osprey backpacks, there are pros and cons of each option. Above, you have a general idea of what they offer and which one may better suit your needs.
When it comes down to it, you must find the backpack that suits your needs and provides you with the quality results and price you can afford.
You May Also Like: Check out These Patagonia Like Brands You Should’t Miss Out
