No matter what you're next adventure entails, a trusty backpack will always come in handy.
In the search for the best backpack, a wise starting point is to compare Osprey vs Deuter backpacks, two great companies with amazing products.
Backpacks are the most versatile bags available, great for hiking, backpacking, camping, school, or air travel. Osprey and Deuter are some of the most popular backpack brands around, with great bags for any of these uses.
If you're interested in our Osprey vs Deuter backpack comparison, keep reading. Or jump to our buyer's guide to know exactly what to look for when buying your next backpack.
Osprey vs Deuter Backpack Comparison
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Osprey vs Deuter trekking and hiking backpacks
What Type of Backpack Do You Need?
Though some backpacks can be used for a few different activities, if you have one type of adventure in mind, you want to be sure you're buying the right bag.
Each type has different features, so you need to be careful to ensure you have everything you need.
Trekking backpacks are good for longer excursions outdoors. They have plenty of room, with a large storage area, many pockets, a sometimes space for sleeping bags, axe loops, and other handy gear. They are usually waterproof as well.
Osprey vs Deuter trekking backpack comparison
Travel backpacks are a bit smaller, though still give you the space you need for all your travel accessories. This means clothing, toiletries, and many times space for laptops and tablets.
Daypacks are just what their name suggests, packs meant for a day only. They have room for a change of clothing, some snacks and drinks, but not much else. Some have room for your devices, but there are very few extras on these little bags.
Trekking & Backpacking Pack Comparison
Trekking backpacks are great for backpacking, hiking, and climbing. They give you plenty of space for everything you need out on the trail. The two brands, Osprey and Deuter, have some differences in their specs.
Though both of the following trekking packs are a great choice for backpacking, travel, trekking and overnight hiking trips. Find out more in this comparison to help you choose which pack to go with.
Osprey Aether AG 70 vs Deuter Aircontact Lite 65 + 10
For our Osprey vs Deuter backpack comparison, we're looking at the Osprey Aether AG 70 and the Deuter Aircontact Lite 65 + 10 Backpacking Pack.
Keep in mind the Deuter Aircontact is actually an upgraded version of the Deuter ACT Lite 65 + 10 Backpack. Deuter has given it a more rugged construction, a new hipbelt design, and a stylish look, at only a slightly raised price.
Size
If you're a fan of the Osprey Atmos Ag 65 Backpack, you're going to love the Osprey Aether AG 70 Backpack. It has an extra 5 liters worth of space, but with smaller height and depth dimensions.
The Osprey Aether is also bigger than the Deuter Aircontact Lite 65 + 10 Backpack in its main area, but the Deuter has its adjustable top lid that gives you an extra 10 liters of storage space.
Plus the Deuter Aircontact bag has smaller dimensions than the Osprey model.
Storage & Organization
The best Osprey trekking backpack will have plenty of storage, and the Aether 70 meets these needs. Along with the large main area, there is a large stretch mesh front panel pocket, and side stretch mesh pockets with dual access.
There are also zippered pockets on the hipbelt and a zippered sleeping bag area on the bottom. The removable top lid can be converted into a DayLid daypack if needed.
The Deuter Aircontact pack also has plenty of storage space outside of the large compartment.
There is a bottom compartment for larger items, a valuables pocket inside the lid, a stretch compartment on the front for wet or soiled clothing, and a detachable lid compartment that can be used as a daypack.
Weight
Whether you're carrying the best Osprey or the best Deuter trekking backpack, you want to make sure it is as light as possible.
This is because your gear will be heavy on its own, so you don't want your backpack adding too much extra to it.
The Osprey Aether AG 70 is a bit heavy at over 5 lbs. It is almost a pound more than the Deuter Aircontact, which weighs 4 lbs 6 ozs. So, if weight is the deciding factor, Deuter wins this battle.
Materials & Durability
This 70 liter Osprey backpack uses sturdy materials to increase its durability. For the main areas, 210D nylon dobby is used.
For added strength, 500D nylon packcloth is used for the bottom to reduce tears and abrasions, even when placed on rough surfaces.
The best Deuter backpack for trekking uses mainly Deuter-Super-Polytex material. This is made from 600D polyester covered with a thick PU coating for extra protection.
This is combined with their 100D pocket rip mini, which is lightweight, yet weaved tight for extra resistance to abrasions and tears.
Suspension & Straps
The Osprey backpack uses their Anti-Gravity technology in their suspension system. This is a continuous, suspended panel that goes for the upper torso down to the lumbar area.
It is made of lightweight mesh for breathability and is customizable for the perfect fit. The backpack straps are padded for increased comfort, as is the hipbelt. There is also a sternum strap to keep everything in place.
The Aircontact Lite VariQuick system is also easy to adjust fast, as its name suggests. The shoulder straps also have load adjustment to correct the pack's center of gravity, with Triglide buckles for the perfect position.
The hipbelt is padded for comfort, plus has a pull-forward hip fin for precise adjustments when strapping it on. A sternum strap and top carry handle are also included.
Extra Features
For extra features, the best Osprey backpack for long trips has both front and side compression straps, removable sleeping pad straps, trekking pole attachments, and dual ice tool loops, complete with bungee tie-offs to keep everything secure.
It also has a hydration reservoir sleeve inside to keep you well watered throughout your trip.
The Deuter has some similar features, including a hydration pocket, a hiking pole and axe attachment loops, and compression straps. But under the lid is an SOS label, which gives you tips for use in case of an emergency.
There are also attachment loops for Deuter's helmet holder, though the holder itself is sold separately.
Women's Fit
Sometimes larger packs like these don't fit women properly, due to their size and shape.
For a trekking backpack designed specifically for women, try out the Osprey Ariel AG 65 Women's Backpack or the Deuter Aircontact Lite 60 + 10 SL Women's Backpack. These are both slimmer and lighter, without sacrificing the features you need for your next outdoor adventure.
| Osprey Aether AG 70 | Deuter Aircontact Lite 65 + 10 Backpacking Pack | |
|---|---|---|
 | ||
| Storage & Organization | - large main compartment - hipbelt pockets - stretch mesh front panel pocket - side stretch mesh pockets - sleeping bag compartment | - large main compartment - bottom compartment - top pocket - internal lid pocket - front stretch pocket - side pockets |
| Materials & Durability | - 210D nylon dobby main - 210D high tenacity nylon shadow box - 500D nylon packcloth bottom | - Deuter-Super-Polytex (600D polyester with thick PU coating) - 100D Pocket Rip Mini (nylon) |
| Straps & Handles | - padded adjustable backpack straps - padded hipbelt - sternum strap | - adjustable padded shoulder straps - padded hipbelt - sternum strap - carry handle |
| Suspension | Anti-Gravity suspension | VariQuick suspension system |
| Extra Features | - removable top-lid converts to DayLid daypack - compression straps - integrated FlapJacket cover - internal hydration reservoir sleeve - ice tool loops - sleeping pad straps - Stow-on-the-Go trekking pole attachment | - adjustable lid height - SOS label - hydration bladder pocket with drinking tube hole - hiking pole and axe loop attachment - detachable lid/daypack - helmet holder attachment loops |
| Size (Liters) | 70 liters | 65 liters |
| Weight (lbs) | 5.214 lbs | 4.375 lbs |
| Dimensions (Inches) | 33.46 x 15.75 x 13.39 inches | 33 x 13 x 10 inches |
| Colors | - Neptune Blue - Adirondack Green - Outback Orange | - Navy-Arctic Blue - Alpine Green/Forest - Black/Graphite |
| Check price on Amazon | Check price on Amazon |
Travel Backpack Comparison
Unlike a hiking backpack that has only one opening at the top, most travel backpack open more like a suitcase, giving you easy access to your gear.
They sometimes do away with the extra straps and the suspension system can often be stored away for easier storage on planes and buses. Plus they usually have room for your devices, like laptops and laptops, and have sleeves for any documents needed for travel.
Osprey Porter 46 vs Deuter Transit 50
For our Deuter vs Osprey backpack comparison, we looked at the Osprey Porter 46 Travel Backpack and the Deuter Transit 50 Travel Backpack.
Size
The Osprey Porter travel backpack has a 46 liter capacity, giving you more than enough room for a change of clothing, a few devices, and all your travel documents. There is also a larger 65 liter size available for longer trips.
The Transit 50 is one of the best travel backpacks from Deuter. It's a bit smaller than the Porter 46, holding only 38 liters on its own. But the included daypack holds 12 liters, making the total capacity 50 liters when the two bags are attached.
The Deuter model is also a bit taller, though slimmer in both width and depth.
Storage & Organization
When comparing storage space, the Osprey backpack has a bit more in terms of pockets. Along with the large main area, there is a rear protected panel with room for a laptop or a tablet.
There are also a top zippered pocket for toiletries and other essentials, a front panel for travel documents or books, and a front organizational pocket for your other travel items. There are also a couple internal pockets for those items that need a bit more security.
The Deuter travel backpack has a large main area as well, plus a bottom compartment complete with a removable separator for easier storage.
There are stretch pockets on the sides and an organizational pocket for your phone, pens, travel documents, and other essentials. The included daypack attaches to the Deuter travel backpack as well, giving you more room for extra items.
Weight
The Osprey Porter 46 is extremely lightweight, weighing only 3.4 lbs empty, so you won't break your back carrying it, even if you have it packed to full capacity.
The Deuter Transit 50 travel backpack with removable daypack attached weighs a bit more at 5 lbs. Of course, if you carry them separately, using the travel backpack for flights and the daypack for touring, you won't be forced to carry that much weight the majority of the time.
Materials & Durability
The best travel backpack from Osprey needs to be durable, and the Porter 46 uses the best material for this. The main body of the pack is nylon packcloth, which is thick and strong. The accents and bottom are made of durable nylon wave ripstop, which reduces tearing and abrasions.
The Transit 50 also uses a thick material, though they replace the nylon main material with their own Deuter-Super-Polytex, which is 600D polyester with a thick PU coating. This material is strong, yet lightweight. There is also nylon mixed in there, reducing abrasions.
Suspension & Straps
For a suspension, the best travel backpack from Osprey uses an HDPE Framesheet suspension. There is a nylon and foam backpanel, with a stow-away spacer mesh harness that is breathable and comfortable against your skin.
The pack also has a stow-away padded hipbelt and a sternum strap to keep the pack firmly on your back. Top and side grab handles are also built-in.
The Transit 50 uses a VariQuick suspension, which easily adjusts for the perfect fit on any length of back.
There is a flexible X-frame, with stowable padded shoulder straps and a padded hipbelt. A sternum strap is also included for the right fit. There also top and side grab handles.
Extra Features
All backpacks need a few extra features to make them extra special. The Osprey Porter 46 has lockable zippers on the main area and the laptop panel for a bit of security.
There are also compression straps, a whistle on the sternum strap, D-rings for a shoulder strap, and some reinforced cord loops to attach Osprey's Daylite daypack, though this extra pack must be purchased separately.
The Deuter travel backpack also has lockable zippers, D-rings, compression straps, and of course, the included Daypack that attaches right on the front of the travel backpack.
| Osprey Porter 46 Travel Backpack | Deuter Transit 50 Travel Backpack | |
|---|---|---|
 |  | |
| Storage & Organization | - large main compartment - front vertical zippered pocket - front organizational pocket - zippered top pocket - rear laptop/tablet sleeve - dual internal zippered side pockets | - large main compartment - bottom compartment - side pockets - organizational pocket - internal mesh pocket |
| Materials & Durability | - 420 HD nylon packcloth main - 420D nylon wave ripstop accent and bottom | - Deuter-Super-Polytex (600D polyester with PU coating) - Macro Lite 210 (420D and 210D nylon) |
| Straps & Handles | - padded adjustable backpack straps - padded hipbelt - sternum straps - padded top and side handles | - padded adjustable backpack straps - padded hipbelt - sternum strap - top carry handle - shoulder strap |
| Suspension | HDPE Framesheet suspension | VariQuick suspension system |
| Extra Features | - StraightJacket compression straps - lockable zippers - stowaway harness and hipbelt - D-rings for shoulder strap (not included) - whistle - reinforced cord loops to attach Osprey Daylite daypack (not included) | - included attachable daypack - lockable zippers - compression straps - X-Frame construction - stowable backpack straps and hipbelt |
| Size (Liters) | 46 liters | 50 liters |
| Weight (lbs) | 3.4 lbs | 5 lbs |
| Dimensions (Inches) | 22 x 14 x 11 inches | 25 x 13 x 10 inches |
| Colors | - Mineral Teal - Diablo Red - Castle Grey - Black | Anthracite-Moss |
| Check price on Amazon | Check price on Amazon |
Daypack Comparison
Daypacks are typically smaller than trekking or travel backpacks, usually having enough space inside to carry only what you'll need for that day. They are meant for shorter hikes, storing a change of clothing, some snacks, and drinks for only one person.
Daypacks also don't have the heavy-duty suspension found on other packs since they won't have to hold and distribute the same amount of weight.
Daypacks are lightweight, with only a few necessary features instead of all the bells and whistles found on larger backpacks.
Osprey Daylite Plus vs Deuter Speed Lite 16
For our Osprey vs Deuter comparison, we've chosen the Osprey Daylite Plus and the Deuter Speed Lite 16 backpacks.
Size
The Daylite Plus is quite small, at only 18 inches in height and 10 inches in width. It has a 20 liter capacity, so you'll have no trouble storing everything you'll need for a short hike or day trip.
The Deuter Speed Lite 16 is the upgraded version of the Speed Lite 15 Daypack. It holds an extra liter's worth of gear, plus the dimensions are only slightly bigger, so it won't take up too much extra room.
Storage & Organization
As one of the best Osprey daypacks the Daylite Plus is efficiently designed to have enough room to store everything you need for the day. There is a large main area for the larger items.
There are also multiple pockets, including side mesh pockets, a front one that contains a mesh organizer, a front panel pocket, and a vertical zippered front slash pocket.
There is also an interior sleeve that can be used for a hydration reservoir or to hold a tablet.
The Deuter Speed Lite 16 doesn't have as many pockets, but there are still enough to store what you need.
Inside is the main area, plus a stretch compartment for wet clothing. On the outside, there is a stretch pocket on each side and a valuables pocket on top.
Weight
Daypacks are usually lightweight, and these two are no exception. The Osprey Daylite Plus weighs only a pound.
At only 13 ounces the Deuter Speed Lite 16 is among the best Deuter backpacks for day trips. It's only an ounce more than the original Speed Lite 15 Daypack.
Whichever brand you choose, you won't be weighed down, unless you stuff the pack full of extras.
Materials & Durability
Osprey wants to make sure their daypack will last for years, which is why they've used durable nylon double diamond ripstop for the main areas of the Daylite Plus.
They've also added heavy-duty nylon packcloth on the bottom, which is where the most contact with rough surfaces will happen.
Deuter uses their Macro Lite 210 material for the Speed Lite 16, which is a combination of 420D and 210D nylon material.
This tightly weaved material is extremely abrasion resistant, plus has the added benefit of a PU coating for extra durability and waterproofing.
Suspension & Straps
The Daylite Plus uses a lightweight suspension, which is a foam frame sheet with a stiffened center for easy movement and proper weight distribution. The backpanel is mesh-covered die-cut foam.
There are padded, ventilated spacer mesh harnesses, an adjustable sternum strap, and a webbing pack stabilizing hipbelt that can be removed when not needed.
Deuter's Lite Back System uses a padded back with 3D-AirMesh for ventilation. The athletic V-cut gives you the right load distribution.
The shoulder straps are S-shaped for a more ergonomic fit. There is also a chest strap and a hipbelt, both of which are adjustable.
Extra Features
Daypacks don't have all the features found on other types of backpacks. The Osprey model has very few to speak of. First, it has attachments that can be used with a variety of Osprey's larger packs. It also has a key clip in the front pocket.
The Deuter Speed Lite 16 daypack has a few more extras. There is an SOS-label that has tips for use in an emergency, plus a safety light loop and a reflector.
There are also attachments for a helmet holder, though this accessory is sold separately. It is also compatible with the Streamer 2.0 hydration system, also sold separately.
| Osprey Daylite Plus | Deuter Speed Lite 16 | |
|---|---|---|
 | ||
| Storage & Organization | - large main compartment - side mesh pockets - front pocket - interior sleeve for hydration or tablet - front slip pocket - front slash pocket | - large main compartment - side pockets - top pocket - inside stretch compartment |
| Materials & Durability | - 210D Nylon Double Diamond Ripstop main - 400HD nylon packcloth accent and bottom | Macro Lite 210 (420D and 210D nylon combined with HD polyamide, with PU coating) |
| Straps & Handles | - padded backpack straps - removable hipbelt - sternum strap | - padded S-shaped backpack straps - hipbelt - sternum top strap |
| Suspension | Lightweight suspension | Lite Back suspension system |
| Extra Features | - compatible with many Osprey travel and backpacking packs - key clip - whistle | - SOS label - safety light loop - attachment loop for helmet holder - reflector - hydration system compatible |
| Size (Liters) | 20 liters | 16 liters |
| Weight (lbs) | 1 lb | 0.81 lbs |
| Dimensions (Inches) | 18 x 10 x 9 inches | 18 x 9.8 x 6.3 inches |
| Colors | - Real Red - Eggplant Purple - Black - Stone Grey - Tahoe Blue - Beryl Blue - Solar Yellow | - Cranberry-Maroon - Bay-Midnight - Black - Petrol-Arctic |
| Check price on Amazon | Check price on Amazon |
About Osprey
Osprey was founded in 1974 by Mike Pfotenhauer. He created his very first backpack at 16, and since then, every product design bearing the Osprey name has been personally inspected by him.
Since the beginning, the people behind the Osprey name believed in creating only the best products, and the countless awards they've received have proven that they've kept up those high standards.
Where are Osprey backpacks made?
Though their main headquarters is located in Cortez, Colorado, they have some production facilities in Korea and Vietnam.
What is Osprey's warranty?
Osprey warranty is exceptional compared to some other companies. They have an All Mighty Guarantee, which means they will repair any damage or defect for free, regardless of the reason for it.
There is no time limit on this either, so even if you bought the first backpack produced in 1974, they'll still fix it. And if they can't fix it, they'll send a replacement backpack.
About Deuter
Deuter was founded in Augsburg-Oberhausen by Hans Deuter. They first started manufacturing mailbags and post sacks for the Bavarian Royal Mail. They later expanded into tents, belts, saddle bags, and of course, backpacks.
They outfitted the military, various explorers and mountaineers, and eventually became a household name. To this day, they are still one of the leading luggage manufacturer's in Germany.
Where are Deuter backpacks made?
Deuter's headquarters is based in Germany. But in 1994, they moved their production facilities to Vietnam, where there are now 3 production locations creating their products.
What is Deuter's warranty?
Deuter has a lifetime warranty against defects in both the material and the workmanship. This doesn't cover misuse or improper care. If their product is deemed defective, it will be repaired if possible.
Otherwise, they will offer a replacement product. Any damage not under warranty can still be repaired, though you will be charged for such repairs.
Osprey vs Deuter Trekking backpack
Things to Consider When Choosing the Right Backpack
How Will You Use Your Backpack?
Whether you're trying to decide between Osprey vs Deuter backpacks or choosing another brand, you'll need to decide where you're going to be using it before you pick the type you'll need.
This is because different types of packs are meant for different purposes, and their features reflect this.
For instance, if you're buying a trekking bag, you may want a hydration sleeve, axe loops, daisy chains, and sleeping bag compartments.
But these won't be any use on a travel backpack or a hiking daypack. So, be sure you look at all the features together before buying your next backpack.
How will you use your backpack - Osprey vs Deuter
Size & Weight
The size and weight will also matter during your Osprey vs Deuter backpack comparison.
Trekking bags are usually large enough to store enough gear for a few days or more. But you don't want to carry a bulky backpack if you're going on a day trip or an hour-long hike.
The same goes for travel backpacks, which will need to be small enough to fit in an overhead bin or meet weight restrictions of checked baggage.
Storage & Organization
Whether you're buying an Osprey Aether AG 70 Backpack or a small Deuter Speed Lite 16, you'll find a large main compartment and a variety of pockets.
Of course, the larger bags will likely have more storage space, but you should have room for all your gear, no matter what type of backpack you pick.
Trekking bags may include a sleeping bag compartment as well, usually at the bottom of the bag. Travel or daypacks may have laptop or tablet sleeves, plus organizational pockets for documents, pens, phones, and other accessories.
You should also look for pockets designed to store wet clothing, to keep the rest of your gear clean and dry. Security pockets, side pockets, mesh or stretch pockets, all of them come in handy.
Comfort & Fit
When walking on the trail or even through an airport, you want to be cool and comfortable. So, when comparing the Osprey vs Deuter backpacks, be sure to check out the ventilation.
Most backpacks use breathable material on both the backpanel and the backpack straps to reduce sweating. There should also be some type of padding in these areas to soften the load.
As for the fit, you want to make sure you buy the right size for the length of your torso. This will ensure the bag hangs properly, and that the hip and sternum straps are buckled properly over your body.
All the straps should be adjustable as well, to ensure a snug fit.
Osprey vs Deuter backpack comparison
Suspension
Trekking backpacks, like the Deuter Aircontact Lite 65 + 10 Backpack, have heavy-duty suspension systems to help distribute the weight of the full backpack properly.
Smaller travel backpacks and daypacks won't go to such extremes, but there will still be some type of suspension for the same reason.
There are two types of suspensions, adjustable or fixed. An adjustable one allows you to alter the fit to match the length of your torso.
This means you'll be able to move the shoulder harnesses up or down as needed. A fixed one doesn't offer this, so you need to make sure you have the right fit before you buy.
Straps and Handles
Shoulder straps are a guarantee when purchasing a backpack, or it couldn't be called a backpack. These should be padded and adjustable, and ergonomic if possible for more comfortable carrying.
There are also sternum straps and hipbelts, which should both also be adjustable. Many hipbelts are padded on the sides as well for a more comfortable fit.
Some backpacks also include top and side grab handles for easy transporting. There are even some backpacks, like the Deuter Transit 50 Travel Backpack, that include a shoulder strap, though this isn't standard.
Materials & Durability
When comparing Osprey vs Deuter, or any other brand, the materials used is one of the most important factors. Thin, cheap materials will tear easily, either from contact with rocks or rough ground, tree branches, or just from the amount of weight they're carrying.
The best backpack material will be able to withstand all of this. Nylon and polyester are the most common materials used. Nylon packcloth is both abrasion and puncture-resistant, as is Cordura.
Ripstop nylon is light but strong. And all of these waterproof well. Polyester won't degrade under UV light but is a bit less rugged. And it holds color instead of fading.
For the most durable backpack, you also want to check for decent zippers, like YKK zippers, and decent stitching around all the seams, especially those holding the backpack straps on.
Special Features
There are a variety of features to look for, depending on the type of backpack you choose.
For trekking or hiking backpacks, you'll want to look for hydration sleeves, axe loops, daisy chains, sleeping pad straps, a shovel pocket, and a sleeping bag compartment.
Detachable top lids give you more storage space, plus can double as a waist pack for shorter day trips away from your campsite. Rain covers and waterproofing can keep your gear dry if an unexpected storm hits.
For travel or daypacks, you'll need different features. Laptop and tablet sleeves are great, as are organizational pockets for notebooks, pens, cards, documents, and charge cords. Compression straps and lockable zippers are also handy.
Osprey vs Deuter - Who makes the best backpack?
The Bottom Line: Osprey vs Deuter Backpacks
When comparing the Osprey vs Deuter backpacks in our reviews, we've noticed a variety of similarities between the bags in each category.
But there are also a few specific differences that make one bag in each section the better model to buy.
In the trekking bags, both brands have similar features, like a removable lid/daypack, hydration sleeves, axe loops, and trekking pole attachments. But despite the fact that the Deuter Aircontact Lite 65 + 10 Backpack is much cheaper, it lacks the sleeping bag compartment and the sleeping pad straps found on the Osprey Aether AG 70 Daypack, so you'd need to carry them separately.
The two travel backpacks are also similar in many ways since they both have lockable zippers, compression straps, and stowable backpack and hipbelt straps. The Osprey Porter 46 Travel Backpack has a laptop/tablet sleeve, plus is lighter and smaller than the Deuter Transit 50 Travel Backpack, so is a bit more convenient.
The Deuter Speed Lite 16 daypack has more safety features, including the safety light loop, the reflector, and an SOS label, plus is lighter than the Osprey model. But the Osprey Daylite Plus has a larger capacity without adding too much weight. It also has more pockets, including a tablet sleeve, and is compatible with many other Osprey backpacks for more versatile use.
Be sure to check out my other guides on the best carry underseat luggage, the best waterproof packs, and finding the right backpack rain cover.
