Able Carry Max vs Max EDC - How to Pick the Right One
Able Carry is known for its innovative daily carry bags, but the Max and Max EDC models bring a unique take on travel, setting them apart from the rest of Able Carry’s lineup.
Both are travel backpacks that can double as daily carry bags but we were surprised to learn that the Max EDC isn’t just a smaller version of the Max – it’s a complete redesign. Able Carry took feedback from the original Max 30L and applied those changes to the Max EDC 26L for a more streamlined experience. In fact, we found different 6 design upgrades that take the Max EDC to an all new level. But, as we found in our testing, some of these changes come with trade-offs that might still make the original Max a better choice for some.
So, which Max backpack is right for you? Keep reading to find out.
Video Review
Quick Specs
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 |
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|---|---|---|
| Volume | 30L | 26L |
| Materials | X-Pac, 1000D Cordura Nylon | X-Pac, 1000D Cordura Nylon |
| Dimensions | 20.4” x 12.6” x 7.9” | 19.6” x 11.8” x 7.5” |
| Weight | 3.5 lbs | 3.4 lbs |
| Laptop Storage | 17" Laptop Compartment | 17" Laptop Compartment |
| Chest Strap | Yes | Yes |
| Hip Belt | No | Optional add-on |
| Price |
Able Carry Max vs Max EDC - Model Height 5'6"
Size and Comfort Features
Side by side, the Max 30L is noticeably larger and this is mostly found in the height. With its larger profile, the Max 30L can feel a bit too long for those with a smaller frame or shorter torso. The Max EDC 26L, on the other hand, offers a more compact fit, making it comfortable for a wider range of body types.
In terms of comfort, both backpacks feature a very similar padded back panel, though the padded area on the Max EDC is slightly more compact, as shown in the measurements below:
Back Panel Measurements (padded area only):
Max: 16.75” H x 8”
EDC: 16.25” H x 7.5”
Able Carry Max vs Max EDC back panels
Despite these size differences, both backpacks feel similar when worn, thanks to their similar shoulder strap, chest strap, and back panel designs.
And here’s Upgrade #1 on the Max EDC: the Max EDC includes hidden card pockets inside the shoulder straps – a perfect spot for metro cards or small items you need quick access to.
Upgrade #2 is that the Max EDC includes a pass-through for adding an optional hip belt for extra stability. This hip belt compatibility is completely missing on the Max 30L.
Exterior Pocket Breakdown
The exterior pockets are designed to keep essentials easily accessible, but the Max EDC includes a few more organizational features that might make your life easier.
Able Carry Max vs Max EDC - both backpacks have the same back security pocket
On both bags, you get:
A security pocket above the back panel for items like your phone or passport.
A side water bottle pocket that easily fits a 40oz Hydroflask
Able Carry Max vs Max EDC hidden side water bottle pocket. Both bags can fit up to a 40 oz water bottle.
Now, let’s talk about Upgrade #3: the second side pocket on the Max EDC is not only larger but it offers a few changes. The new side pocket on the Max EDC is divided, giving you a little bit more organization.
Able Carry Max EDC vs Max - The Max EDC has a larger side pocket
And while both bags have removable key leashes, the original Max uses daisy chains to attach your keys while the Max EDC uses single lash points. Plus, this pocket on the Max EDC is slightly larger, making it easy to fit a small umbrella – which doesn’t fit in the side pocket of the Max EDC.
In short, the Max EDC offers a larger, more organized side pocket.
Front Compartment: Organization vs Duffel-Style Storage
One of the biggest differences between the Max 30L and Max EDC 26L is in their front compartments. This front compartment redesign is Upgrade #4.
Able Carry Max vs Max EDC - Different front compartment designs
The Max 30L’s front compartment is designed mainly for organization. It opens partially and includes daisy chains for attaching keys or accessories and a couple of slip pockets for quick-access items like sunglasses or a small notebook. This layout works well for having quick access to items but is limited in terms of space since this compartment is not gusseted.
In contrast, the Max EDC’s front compartment has been completely redesigned with a more spacious, duffel-style opening. This compartment fully opens like a duffel bag and is gusseted to give you a few more liters of packing space, which means it doesn’t bulge too much into the main compartment. Thanks to this design, you can fit larger items like a change of clothes or even a pair shoes. Inside, you’ll still find a zippered pocket and a hook for keys, so you’re not sacrificing organization for extra space.
Laptop Compartments; Mobile Office vs Classic Setup
Both the Max and Max EDC offer a separate laptop compartment against the back panel that can fit up to a 17-inch laptop. However, these two compartments are very different.
Able Carry Max vs Max EDC - Mobile office vs simple laptop compartment
The Max 30L features a 2/3 zipper that gives you full access to the inside of the laptop compartment. Inside, you’ll find a laptop sleeve along with two stretchy pockets for a tablet and accessories, creating a “mobile office” feel.
In contrast, Able Carry has decided to give the Max EDC a more traditional laptop compartment design. The zipper only opens from the top and gone are the stretchy pockets for a tablet and extra items.
Able Carry Max vs Max EDC - The Max EDC has an upgraded expandable tech pocket
Now, let’s talk about Upgrade #5: while both bags include an accessories pocket within the laptop compartment, the Max EDC’s pocket is designed to expand outward into the main compartment. This design not only provides more space but also prevents bulky items from pressing into the laptop sleeve – a common issue with the Max 30L’s flat pocket design.
Able Carry Max vs Max EDC - Laptop compartment zippers
However, here is a big win for the Max. The Max offers better weather protection for the laptop compartment with a laminated, water-resistant zipper. While the Max EDC’s zippers are treated with a water-repellent coating, the Max 30L’s water resistant zipper provides a bit more confidence in rainy conditions.
Main Compartment: Open Space Vs Divided Design
The main compartments in each backpack are pretty different, with the Max EDC introducing Upgrade #6: gusseted pockets.
The two pockets inside the Max are flat and have a bad habit of bulging into the front compartment. Able Carry has fixed this by designing gusseted pockets that expand and stay contained inside the main compartment.
Able Carry Max vs Max EDC - Updated gusseted pockets on the Max EDC
Both backpacks include a side stretch pocket but only the Max EDC adds a stretchy slip pocket in the back. Overall, the Max EDC gives you a bit more organization inside the main compartment, adding to that “EDC” daily carry feel.
Wondering how much you can pack inside? Here’s where these two bags start to really show their differences. The Max 30L can handle 4-5 day trips while the Max EDC 26L does best with 2-3 day getaways. Of course, this all depends on how you pack.
Able Carry Max vs Max EDC - Leftover space in the main compartment after all external pockets are filled
However, the main compartment in the Max EDC has a huge drawback; Many of the redesigned pockets, now push into the main compartment and take up packing space. This means that the water bottle pocket, the expanding tech accessories pocket and the larger side pocket all take up more room when compared to the original Max.
When both bags are packed with similar items inside the exterior pockets, you can really see the difference in space – the Max 30L has noticeably more room left over, while the Max EDC’s main compartment starts to feel cramped. This makes the Max 30L more practical if you need to maximize packing space.
Max vs MAX EDC: How to Choose?
Able Carry Max
Able Carry Max EDC
So, how do you choose between the Able Carry Max 30L and Max EDC 26L?
The easiest way to decide is by asking yourself one question: do you need more packing space, or do you prefer upgraded features?
Choose the Able Carry Max 30L if need a backpack with more packing room for travel. It has a wide-open main compartment that doesn’t get too cramped even when you use all of the pockets. The Max 30L also a more versatile laptop compartment, with extra pockets for a tablet and accessories, along with a water-resistant zipper that offers better protection.
Go with the Able Carry Max EDC 26L if you’re after a more compact bag with updated features. You’ll enjoy upgrades like hidden shoulder strap pockets, hip belt compatibility, and larger redesigned pockets. The large duffel-style front compartment also makes packing bulky items like shoes and clothing a breeze. Just keep in mind that the added pockets on the Max EDC do take up main compartment space, so it’s better suited for shorter trips or everyday carry.
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