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If you want a versatile, high-quality, and stylish backpack for your laptop and other essential stuff, you can bet on Timbuk2 to provide just that.
Timbuk2 is a reputable brand. Since 1989, they have consistently manufactured high-quality luggage pieces including backpacks.
Timuk2 Parkside and Timbuk2 Uptown are some of the company’s best backpack models.
The Uptown is a TSA-friendly backpack featuring a 15-inch laptop sleeve that unzips and lies flat, so you can easily pass through airport security lines.
The Parkside, on the other hand, is a dressed up yet unfussy backpack with padded laptop sleeves and well-placed pockets for your phone, cards, and other small items.
The Timbuk2 Uptown is more expensive, but that’s not reason enough to disregard it if you are looking for a cheaper backpack. You may find its additional features and durability worth the cost.
So, which of the backpacks should you choose?
These two backpack models have several similar features. They have a number of differences as well.
So, to help you decide on the best model for your specific needs, we’ve provided this in-depth Timbuk2 Parkside vs. Uptown review.
Specs Overview Timbuk2 Parkside vs. Timbuk2 Uptown
Before we delve deeper into the features of these backpacks, here’s a quick glance at their specifications:
| Product | Best Use | Gear Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| #1. Timbuk2 Parkside Our Best Pick  Check Price | Casual | 25 liters / 1,526 cubic inches |
#2. Timbuk2 Uptown Check Price | Bike Commuting, Travel | 30 liters / 1830.7 inches |
Comparing Timbuk2 Parkside and Timbuk2 Uptown Backpacks
Next, let’s explore the various factors that set these models apart from each other:
- Size
The Timbuk2 Uptown is a bit larger than the Parkside. Its dimensions are 19.5 x 11.2 x 6.5 inches, and it weighs just over 2 pounds. It can hold a total of 30 liters of gear.
If you usually bring plenty of gear on your daily commutes and while traveling, the Uptown can be a perfect choice. This model also makes an excellent choice for medium-sized laptops thanks to its 11.4 x 15.9-inch laptop sleeve.
The Timbuk2 Parkside, on the other hand, measures 18.1 x 10.6 x 7.3 inches. At 1.6 pounds, it’s lighter than the Uptown and can hold a total of 25 liters of gear.
The Parkside can be a perfect choice if you don’t need to carry a lot of gear and prefer a small and compact backpack. It’s great for daily commuting but may not be a good choice if you want a backpack for traveling due to its compact design.
With a 10.4 x 16.5-inch laptop sleeve, the Parkside can also accommodate medium-sized laptops.
It’s worth noting that while Timbuk2 Uptown is generally larger, it’s still slimmer than the Parkside. It compensates for the slimness with a broader top and taller height.
- Design and Construction
Both backpacks have a front pocket for convenient storage of small items. However, the front pockets differ in design. For the Parkside, this pocket is designed like a sleeve, which ensures that small items can’t accidentally slip out.
Conversely, the Uptown’s front pocket is designed like a panel holder. Its zippers go from side to side. As a result, this pocket can hold more items than that of the Parkside.
Both models are also equipped with an elastic side pocket for a water bottle.
One of the features that sets the Parkside apart is its internal organizer, where you can put your pens, phones, cards, and other small personal effects. This makes it ideal for daily commuting to work or school.
This model also has an on-strap bottle opener. That means you don’t have to risk breaking your teeth opening bottles when you decide to have a quick refreshment on the go.
Its ventilated mesh back panel enhances airflow and makes your back feel comfortable too.
While the Timbuk2 Uptown, instead, features a tricot-lined floating pocket. This allows for safekeeping of items that are prone to scratchings, such as sunglasses and phones.
The backpack’s air mesh back panel has been channeled to enhance air circulation, keeping your back cool even with extended wear.
- Price
Timbuk2 Uptown comes with more useful features, larger storage capacity, and hence a higher price tag.
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The final verdict: Timnuk2 Parkside vs. Uptown
If you want a convenient and comfortable backpack, both the Timbuk2 Uptown or Timuk2 Parkside can be a good choice. However, the Parkside may make a better choice.
It may be pricier, but it offers more storage space and better comfort. It’s a perfect choice if you’re looking for a backpack that is ideal for short trips and long-term travel alike.
However, it may not work for you if you want a backpack for daily commuting.
In that case, you might opt for the Parkside as it’s more compact. Its internal organizer is very handy as well. The Parkside can also make a great choice if you are looking for a budget-friendly backpack.