This is a comparison of the Everki Atlas and eBags TLS Professional Slim. These are two backpacks targeted at modern professionals needing backpacks for work.
Specs
| Feature | Everki Atlas (EKP121) | eBags Professional Slim (EB2146-16) |
|---|---|---|
| Laptop | Up to 17.3” | Up to 17.5” (17.5” x 12.25” x 1.5”) |
| Laptop compartment | 11 x 1.6 x 16.5 in (28 x 4 x 42 cm) | 12.25 x 1.5 x 17.5 in) |
| Dimensions | 13.5 x 9 x 18.9 in (32 x 23 x 48 cm) | 12.75 x 7.5 x 18.5 in |
| Capacity | 32L | 21.6L |
| Weight | 3 lbs 12 oz (1.72kg) | 3 lbs 6 oz (1.57kg) |
| Material | Polyester | 840D & 900D Twisted Poly |
Laptop Compartment
Both backpacks can hold very large laptops but each holds it differently. The Atlas has a unique adjustable laptop pocket that securely holds the computer whether it’s a small 12” or a large 17”. The eBags is a single large compartment with removable padding that is good for larger notebooks but smaller computers might move around when stored.
The large compartment does mean it can hold even the mega sized gaming laptops although that isn’t the user that the eBags is targeting. The Atlas is a TSA friendly backpack so it opens up completely to allow it to go through security without having to take out the laptop. Because it opens up like that it can’t take full advantage of the thickness of the laptop compartment.
While the Atlas has a pocket for tablets in the laptop compartment, the eBags has a paper/magazine pocket and there is a separate compartment for a tablet.
Dimensions & Weight
Although the published dimensions have the Slim being taller then the Atlas, they are actually the same height when I put them back-to-back. The width of the backs are also the same but the Atlas takes up more space due to its two side pockets.
The Atlas is noticably the thicker of the two which is noticable when trying to put it under the seats of an airplane. The Slim’s body maintains its shape better and generally maintain its slim profie even when full.
Although their dimension are basically the same, the Slim has a lower capacity due to its much thicker padding all around.
The balance when using both straps along the back is good on both the Atlas and the Slim, but the Slim feels heavier even though the published weight for both is 3.8lbs.
Organization
Organization is a big part of a work backpack and here there are some distinct differences. The Slim offers multiple compartments such as its hard case adapter garage, laptop and tablet compartments and a spacious main compartment, but the accessories pockets are mostly designed for thin/flat items.
The Atlas, on the other hand, offers pockets galore for organization of all different sizes and depths.
Traveling
Both backpacks are well suited for traveling. I bought the Atlas specifically for traveling. Both has loops that allows it to hook on to luggage handles The loops on the Slim allows it be hooked on both vertically and horizontally.
The Atlas is TSA friendly and that’s a feature that the Slim doesn’t offer. Because the tablet is a separate compartment on the Slim, going through airport security is a little less convenient.
The Slim is more friendly on the airplane itself once pass security. The Atlas might be harder to fit under the seat because it is thicker and wider while the Slim keeps its tight shape. The Slim also allws its straps to be stored inside the luggage handle loop to further keep everything tight and organized.
Access to items is easier with the Atlas then the Slim while the extra padding on the Slim feels like it offers better protection from bumps.
Appearance
Both Atlas and the Slim are fairly understated in that there’s not a lot of dangling accessories or items that jumps out. The look of the Atlas is more like a typical backpack. It only comes in black. The Slim catches the eye more especially the non-Black versions. The Slim looks less like a traditional backpack.
Which looks better is subjective.
Cost
The Atlas costs about $55 more then the Slim.
Quality & Durability
Both backpack uses high quality components and materials, but I’ll need to use them more to comment on durability. Both offer limited lifetime warranties.
