If you are in school or like to carry a backpack to work, the North Face Router and Surge backpacks are an excellent way to commute. While it is true that both have very similar designs, there are a few major differences between them to consider when making a purchase.
In this review, we make a comparison between the North Face Router vs Surge.
But before we dig deeper into the differences, we would like to cover some of the similarities.
Related: The North Face Surge vs Recon: Two Popular North Face Backpacks
The North Face Router vs Surge
The North Face Router vs Surge: Similarities
Both of these backpacks are optimal for use as a daypack. They both feature padded laptop and tablet sleeves. Many of their pockets are fleece-lined in order to provide maximum protection for your electronics and other delicate items.
Both the Router and the Surge have a dedicated fleece-lined pocket for your tablet, your phone or your iPod, and your sunglasses. They both also have external pockets for your smaller items that you might want to separate out from the rest.
While both have two side pockets for water bottles, they are made in a slightly different way, as will be discussed later.
As per TSA requirements, their laptop compartments are made with a lay-flat design. This means that you will have no issues going through checkpoints at the airport, and your laptop will be fully protected.
They both have reflective bike loops, a sternum strap, water bottle tabs, and a removable waist belt.
But if you would like to know what the differences are between the two, read on.
The North Face Router vs Surge: Differences
Now that we have covered what makes these backpacks similar, let’s go over some of the key differences.
As you may already know, the Surge and the Router are very similarly designed. They both feature an ergonomic design that is perfect for taking them around on a daily basis.
But one of the major differences between them is the fact that the Router is larger than the Surge. In fact, the Router is the North Face’s is largest backpack. Here are the specs for gear capacity:
- The North Face Router gear capacity: 41 liters
- The North Face Surge gear capacity: 33 liters
Another major difference is the fact that you can carry a larger laptop using the North Face Router:
- The North Face Router laptop size: 17-inch laptop
- The North Face Surge laptop size: 15-inch laptop
The average size of a good laptop is usually around 15 inches. But some like to use larger laptops, which makes the North Face Router a more useful backpack above the Surge in this regard. But even if you have the North Face Router, you can comfortably fit a 15-inch laptop without it being bumped around.
Another important difference that may be overlooked by some is the fact that the North Face Surge has a better side pocket design. The Surge side pockets have an elastic at the top which helps prevent water bottles from slipping out. But the Router does not have an elastic, so it can be a bit cumbersome if carrying a thin water bottle as it can slip out.
And last but not least, it is worth mentioning the number of items that you can carry with a Router. Apart from carrying your laptop and your books, you can also fit your gym bag inside of this backpack. The Router is large enough to carry all of the items that you may need throughout the day. But it is also great as a weekend excursion backpack!
The North Face Router vs Surge: Price Comparison
In order to see the current prices for the Surge and the Router, please see the links below:
The North Face Router vs Surge: The Verdict
The Surge and the Router like any other North Face backpacks are both made from high-quality materials. Customers of both of these backpacks really love them and often go back to one of them after a few years of use.
Some customers who have the North Face Surge have upgraded to the Router for the extra room. But others have gone back to the very same backpack and simply bought a new one.
Essentially, the main difference that you need to consider is what you will be wanting to carry on a daily basis. If you want plenty of space for your laptop, plenty of books, and your gym bag, the North Face Router may be for you. But if you are content with a smaller backpack, then the Surge is plenty comfortable and has enough space for an entire day’s worth of gear.
Keep in mind that if you own a laptop that is larger than 15 inches, the North Face Surge will not do. It can only carry a 15-inch laptop, while the Router can carry a 17-inch laptop.
The other design features are the same in these laptop backpacks, so the major consideration is really the size.
We hope that this North Face Router vs Surge article, helped you pick the best one for you. If you have your own opinion as to which backpack you prefer, please leave it in the comment below. Your comment will help others who are looking for the same backpacks and need more information.