This review of the Osprey Stratos 24 vs Talon 22 as for those who want to know the differences and similarities between best hiking backpacks. They are in fact quite similar, and it can be difficult to tell the difference between them. But we have listed all of the differences so that you don’t have to do all of the research.
Before we get into the differences, we will talk about the similarities.
Looking for the best cycling pack? See our comparison review of the Osprey Manta 24 vs 34
Osprey Stratos 24 vs Talon 22
Similarities between the Stratos 24 and Talon 22
Suspension and compression
The suspension and compression systems on these backpacks are the same. In order to stabilize the load, they have a spacer harness and hip belt that use the Airspeed suspension system (an Osprey trademark). This helps to distribute the weight evenly throughout the backpanel and enhances ventilation.
The compression straps on both of these backpacks help to tighten up the gear that is inside all of the larger compartments. So even if you’re going to be filling up the backpack halfway, your gear can be nice and tight and will not budge as you are moving quickly.
Pocket organization
Both backpacks have zippered slash pockets at the front and on the top. This helps to keep your smaller items nice and organized. For even smaller items and the ones that you will be accessing frequently, the hip belt have zippered pockets. There, you can store your compass, cell phone, map, and any other smaller items. There are side mesh pockets for your water bottle and other trinkets.
Tool attachments
Looking to go out on a trek? Both of these backpacks have attachments for trekking poles and ice picks. These can convert into sleeping pad straps.
Stratos 24 and Talon 22 differences
There are few small differences between these two backpacks that cannot be ignored. Since these backpacks are very similar in price, these are the differences that are going to be the most obvious as part of the decision to make a purchase.
For Biking
Between the two backpacks, the Talon 22 is going to be better equipped for biking. It has a helmet attachment that you can use to quickly attach your helmet without even taking off the backpack. The backpanel is also designed to carry well with a bicycle downhill. But if biking is just not your thing, the Talon 22 is also designed to do very active hiking.
External hydration sleeve
The Talon 22 has an external hydration sleeve, while the Stratos 24 does not. Using this hydration sleeve instead of a water bottle will help clear your side pockets and make room for other gear. If you like the convenience of a hydration tube, the Talon 22 may be the best option.
Backpanel Adjustability
Both backpacks have very adjustable backpanels. However, the Talon 22 can be adjusted to your torso length for a custom fit. This is another plus side of the Talon 22 that the Stratos 24 does not have.
Size
The Talon 22’s dimensions are 20 x 10 x 9 inches for the s/m size, and 22 x 10 x 9 inches for the m/l size. This makes it smaller than the Stratos 24. The Stratos 24 measures 20 x 12 x 10 inches for the s/m size, and 22 x 12 x 10 inches for the m/l size.
The Stratos 24 holds 10% more volume than the Talon 22.
Osprey Stratos 24 vs Talon 22: Price Comparison
The Stratos 24 costs about $15 more than the Talon 22. If you would like to see prices on Amazon, please see below:
The Verdict
The Talon 22 has more features than the Stratos 24. It is optimized for cycling, has an external hydration sleeve, and its backpanel is highly adjustable for the length of your torso. If it wasn’t for the size, we would suggest that the Talon 22 is obviously the better choice.
But if you were looking for a larger backpack, the Stratos 24 holds 10% more gear volume than the Talon 22. We would choose the Stratos 24 over the Talon 22 if we needed more space. But the talon 22 wins out over the Stratos 24 due to its richer features.