Comparison Xiaomi City Backpack 15.6 17 L vs Xiaomi Minimalist Urban Style

The working volume of a backpack determines the maximum amount of cargo that can be carried in it. Note that not all manufacturers indicate this parameter in the same way: in one case it can only be the volume of the main compartment, in the other — the total capacity, taking into account all compartments and pockets. If the exact value is important for you, you should separately specify this parameter for each model of interest.

The optimal volume of a backpack is directly related to its intended purpose and features of use. For example, for an urban model designed for documents and textbooks, most often 10 liters is enough, and for trips lasting several days, about 60-70 liters, or even more, may be needed. In general, when choosing the optimal volume for a hiking backpack, it is best to turn to reference literature, or for advice from experienced “hikers”.

Note that the volume of the backpack can often be adjusted. One of the options is side ties (see "Design") to change the thickness. And in some versions, it may also be possible to change the volume due to a special folding insert made of fabric — if necessary, it can be expanded and the height of the backpack can be increased. The names of such models often contain two numbers, for example 35:45 — they indicate the volume in the folded and unfolded form, respectively. In our catalog for these options, the maximum volume is indicated, in the unfolded position.

— Anatomical. The most common type of back in today's backpacks. In accordance with the name, the shape and design of such a backrest is designed taking into account the anatomy of the human body; thanks to this, the load is optimally distributed on the user's back, which allows you to carry significant weight without much inconvenience and harm to health (of course, if the backpack is properly selected and configured). The specific features of such backpacks can be different, but most often the back has protrusions and curves, which give it the necessary properties.

— Easel. This type of backrest is a one-piece structure in the form of a frame with straps (usually metal), on which the actual soft bag for things is attached. Easel backs are less comfortable than anatomical ones, so they are relatively rare, mainly in two categories of backpacks. The first is hiking models (see "In the direction") of large capacity, from 60 liters and above; in them, the soft bag is often made removable, which allows, if necessary, to hang another load on the frame that is suitable in size and weight. The second variety is backpacks for fishermen, where the frame is actually a folding chair (see "Equipment").

— Hard back. The presence of a rigid frame in the design of the backpack. Note that this feature should not be confused with the easel back: a rigid frame usually means...one or more metal plates built into the anatomical back. The main function of such plates is to optimize the load when the backpack is unevenly filled or when carrying hard objects of an “uncomfortable” shape. Without hard inserts, the contents of the backpack could press on certain points of the back, creating discomfort, and the plates evenly distribute all the pressure on the back. At the same time, in many models it is possible to remove the frame — for example, to reduce the weight of the backpack.

— Back ventilation. This feature suggests that the back has a special design that improves air circulation between the backpack and the user's back. This, in turn, improves thermoregulation and reduces sweating. Such properties are usually achieved through the use of porous breathable materials, as well as a special relief shape of the back itself. Note that this feature will be useful not only in hot, but also in cool weather.

— Adjustment of a back on height. The ability to adjust the back of the backpack in height is found only in models equipped with a waist belt (see "Cables and belts"). The essence of this adjustment is that, thanks to a special fastening, the main straps can be moved up or down, changing the distance between these straps and the waist belt. This gives additional features for adjusting the backpack to the height and physique of a particular user.

— Attachment to a suitcase. The presence of a special belt that allows you to attach the backpack to the handle of the suitcase, thereby facilitating transportation.

— Elastic cord. Elastic cord attached to the front of the backpack in special loops. The main function of this part is to carry large items that do not fit in a backpack or that need quick access. For example, using a cord, you can fix a mat, bike helmet, jacket, etc. In addition, this function can be useful for more specific tasks — for example, drying washed clothes on the go. And in some models, the cord also works as an addition to the ties: by tightening it, you can seal the backpack that is not completely filled, reducing its size and not allowing the contents to hang out inside.

— Mount for skis. A special mount that allows you to securely fasten skis to a backpack. If you are going to use a backpack in winter, it may make sense to pay attention to the presence of this item of equipment.

— Mount for the board. A special mount that allows you to securely fasten a snowboard or skateboard to your backpack. The specific specialization should be clarified separately, however, anyway, this feature greatly simplifies the transportation of the "board" — it does not need to be carried in the hands, while the fixation is very reliable. Usually, the mount can be adjusted to the size of a particular board.

...— Helmet mount. Special fastening for a protective helmet. Most often, such a mount refers to the LidLock system, designed for bicycle and other similar helmets that have holes in the shell. The main element of LidLock is a plastic plate on an elastic strap: such a plate is threaded into the hole of the helmet “sideways”, and then installed across the hole and, due to the elasticity of the strap, keeps the helmet on the backpack.

— Loops for equipment. Loops designed to secure special equipment, for example, "ice" — ice axes or walking sticks. Most often located on the sides of the backpack and can be adjusted in size.

— Folding chair. An original function characteristic of easel-type backpacks, designed primarily for hunting and fishing. The frame of such backpacks is used for its intended purpose during transportation, and at stops you can remove the bag and unfold it, turning it into a seating device.

— USB interface. Standard USB connector located on the outside of the product. Allows you to charge smartphones, tablets and other gadgets without unpacking your backpack — the main thing is that you have the appropriate cable at hand. Of course, for such charging, you will need a power bank or other source of energy connected to the USB port from the inside; such a source is usually not included in the delivery set.

— Mini-Jack connector (3.5 mm). A standard 3.5 mm mini-jack audio jack is located on the outside of the backpack, in some models right on one of the straps. From the inside, you can connect a smartphone, media player or other similar signal source to this connector, and headphones or portable speakers from the outside. Thus, this function allows you to listen to music without getting into your backpack once again and without taking the signal source out; this is especially convenient if a large gadget such as a tablet or laptop plays the role of a playback device.

— Raincoat included. A raincoat is a waterproof cover made of thin fabric worn on a backpack as additional protection against moisture during rain or snow. It is worth noting that most backpacks are initially made of water-repellent materials that can withstand precipitation to a certain extent. Therefore, it is especially worth looking for a model with a rain cover in the kit if there is a chance during a hike to get caught in heavy rain or stay in a damp atmosphere (fog, drizzle) for a long time.

— Reflective elements. Additional inserts on the outside of the backpack, made of a special reflective material. Such elements are located at least on the straps and on the front of the product, but can also be provided from the sides. Their main function is to make a person more visible on the road at night. So, in the dipped headlights, the driver notices a pedestrian in ordinary clothes for 20-50 m (depending on the colour of the clothes), and if there are reflectors, this distance increases to 100 m or more. Thus, reflective backpacks greatly increase safety on the road; and in some countries the wearing of reflectors is even mandatory for pedestrians at night.

The maximum diagonal of a laptop that can fit in the corresponding compartment of the backpack. Note that the average (standard) diagonal for modern laptops is 15.6", and most backpacks have a 15" laptop compartment. However, there are also more voluminous models that can accommodate a 17.3" or even 18.4" laptop. At the same time, compact models are also presented: there are backpacks with a compartment for a laptop 14", 13" and even smaller.

Note that the lack of a laptop compartment in itself does not prevent using a backpack to carry a laptop, however, in this case, the maximum allowable size of the device will have to be specified according to the dimensions of the backpack.