This review on the Deuter Speed Lite 20 vs Osprey Talon 22 is for those looking for an athletic backpack. These backpacks can be used as daypacks for camping, but they are also so much more. That’s because they are specially designed with sports in mind.
In this review, we will be talking about the differences between these two backpacks. Each of the below categories involves a difference between the two. Read on to find out more.
Deuter Speed Lite 20 vs Osprey Talon 22
Size
Deuter Speed lite 20
- Volume: 20 liters
- Dimensions: 19 x 10 x 7.1 inches
Osprey Talon 22
- Volume: 20 liters: (s/m) and 22 liters (m/l)
- Dimensions: 20 x 10 x 9 inches (s/m) and 22 x 10 x 9 inches (m/l)
Deuter Speed Lite 20 vs Osprey Talon 22: Comparing Uses
While both backpacks can be used for sports activities, the Deuter Speed Lite 20 is the one that covers the most terrain. By this we mean that you can use the Speed Lite 20 in order to bicycle race, climb mountains, and go trekking. Its slim profile and all of its features make it optimal for these types of activities. The Osprey Talon 22 can be used for hiking and bicycle racing. But it is not as highly optimized as the Speed Lite 20 for the other sports.
Looking for lighter backpacks? You might like our Deuter Act Zero vs Act Lite: From Light to Lighter review article.
Organisation
Overall, the Talon 22 has more pockets. Perhaps one of the biggest differences is that the Talon 22 has zippered pockets on its hip belt, while the Speed lite 20 has no pockets on its hip belt. But this is not necessarily a disadvantage, as it makes it less bulky at the bottom. This facilitates ease of movement.
One thing we love about the Talon 22 is the large mesh pocket in the front of the backpack. As a matter of fact, this stretchy pocket allows for the insertion of blankets and big outerwear. This can be very useful if you are going to be carrying these items that needs a place to store them that will not take up the main compartment.
The Speed Lite 20 has side mesh pockets for water bottles and food bars. The Talon 22 also has side mesh pockets, but they are not quite as big.
While the Talon 22 has slash pockets, so does the Speed Lite 20. You can use these smaller pockets to store readily accessible items.
Compression
Of the two backpacks, the Speed Lite 20 has the best compression system. Its compression straps can be folded over in order to touch over the front of the backpack when the compression is drawn to the max. These compression straps can also be doubled as pole attachments for skiing and trekking.
The Talon 22 also has a compression system with straps at the top and bottom of each side. You can use the straps to compress your content and prevent your gear from moving around as you move.
Shape
The Speed Lite 20 looks athletic and sleek. It tapers at the bottom, which gives freedom of movement for running, skiing, and climbing. The Talon 22 is shaped like a regular backpack so it does not have that edge that gives your forearms more movement. Moreover, since it has pockets on its hip belt, the movement is more restrictive.
Harness
The Deuter Speed Lite 20 harness is padded and has a breathable air mesh. This helps prevent build-up of sweat on the backpanel. The Talon 22 also has a mesh covered padded harness. But it also can be custom fit to your torso length. This is a staple adjustability option of Osprey backpacks.
External hydration sleeve
The Talon 22 has a hydration sleeve tucked away at the top of the backpanel. You can put any of Osprey hydration packs inside of the sleeve for instant hydration when you are on the go. On the other hand, the Speed Lite 20 does not have a special hydration sleeve.
Deuter Speed Lite 20 vs Osprey Talon 22: Price Differences
The Deuter Speed Lite 20 is a lot cheaper than the Talon 22. If you would like to see current prices for both, see below:
Deuter Speed Lite 20 vs Osprey Talon 22: The Verdict
The strengths of the Speed Lite 20 really come in when you consider how much activity you will be doing. Its main differentiating future is that has a slimmer profile, which allows for more forearm movement. The Talon 22 does have a more adjustable harness, as well as an external hydration sleeve. It also has more options in terms of pockets.
Comparing Osprey and Deuter backpacks is really like comparing apples and oranges. Which do you prefer? Please leave us a comment below.