The Osprey Raptor line allows you to go hiking or cycling while carrying a 3-liter hydration pack. They are made to have a slim fit, as they are only daypacks. The slim fit allows you to move around freely without carrying too much bulk.
But Osprey customers were wondering which Raptor they should actually purchase. More specifically, which size would actually be the best for them and the most comfortable? This is why we have written this comparison of the Osprey Raptor 10 vs 14.
In this review, we will be discussing why you might want to choose one over the other. But first, we will just speak briefly about what these daypacks have in common.
Looking for a backpack with more cycling features? Read our review of Osprey Viper vs Raptor Cycling Backpacks!
Osprey Raptor 10 vs 14
What’s the women’s version of the Osprey Raptor? Find out in our Osprey’s Female Backpacks Guide and Review!
Similarities between the Raptor 10 and 14
Both of these hydration packs have a very similar fit and design. A major difference between them is the fact that the Raptor 14 has a greater gear capacity than the Raptor 10.
Both carry a 3-liter water reservoir, and have a few small pockets in order to help you separate out your gear. They come with a tool organizer so that your tools do not slosh around inside of the main compartment. There is also a helmet attachment and blinker light attachment. As you can tell, these hydration packs were specifically made with cyclists and mind.
Some customers also carry around these packs during their daily commutes sans bicycle!
Comparison of the Osprey Raptor 10 vs 14
As previously mentioned, the main difference between the Osprey Raptor 10 vs 14, is the fact that the Raptor 14 has a greater gear capacity. While the Raptor 14 carries 14 liters of gear, the Raptor 10 carries 10 liters of gear.
With this difference in space comes many considerations in terms of usage. We have created a bullet point list of the things to consider when it comes to having this extra space and what it can be used for.
All day trip or just a couple of hours?:
If you’re only going to be cycling for an hour or two, the Raptor 10 is more than enough to carry all of your gear. For an all-day trip, you will likely want to pack some extra snacks and more clothing as the weather changes. There will not be enough room in the Raptor 10 for this unless you are packing very light and the weather is not likely to change.
What is the weather forecast?:
If you want to be able to pack your rain gear as well as a change of socks, the Raptor 14 is your best bet. Just carrying a rain jacket in the Raptor 14 takes up 1/3 of the space when you have filled your water reservoir.
Going on a hiking trip?:
If you will also be going on a hiking trip with this backpack, you may want to have enough room to carry a first aid kit. Hiking requires more paraphernalia, so you may want to purchase the Raptor 14 in this case.
Roomy or slim?:
Some customers feel that the smaller size of the Raptor 10 gives them a little more mobility and comfort. But the majority of customers say that they prefer the roominess of the Raptor 14 for those times when they will need the extra gear. Most seem to prefer the versatility of the Raptor 14 than the slightly more comfortable Raptor 10.
Compression capabilities:
While it is true that carrying a larger backpack can mean that your items will slosh around inside if not fully packed, this is not the case of the Raptor 14. The Raptor 14 has a tool case that you can use so that your tools will not be sloshing around in your backpack. Also, it has top compression straps, while the Raptors 10 only has bottom compression straps. This means that you can compress your Raptor 14 if you are not going to be filling it all the way. This will prevent the backpack from swaying back and forth as you are cycling.
Carrying a 13-inch laptop:
With the Osprey Raptor 14, you can carry a 13-inch laptop comfortably. There are not many laptops that are small enough to be carried in there after 10. But if you have a tablet, it can possibly fit in your Raptor 10.
Front panel zippered pockets:
As the Raptor 14 has more room for gear, it also has zippered pockets on the front panel. You can organize some of your items better by putting them in your pockets as opposed to the main compartment.
Prices
Perhaps the price difference between these two backpacks is a consideration for you. Please see the links below for current prices on Amazon:
The Verdict
As can be seen from above, the major difference between the Raptor 14 and the Raptor 10 is the gear capacity. Most customers make their decision based on how much room they are going to need.
We prefer the Osprey Raptor 14 for the fact that we do not want to be left with a backpack that does not have enough room for an all-day trip. The Raptor 14 can also be used as a regular day pack for your daily commute. Overall, we prefer more room than something slightly slimmer. But that is just our personal preference.
What is your preference? Please leave your comment below.
Related: Osprey Syncro vs Raptor: Hydration for Hiking and Cycling