Osprey Quasar vs Nebula - What’s the Difference?
When it comes to versatile backpacks, the Osprey Nebula 32 and Osprey Quasar 26 stand out as the Swiss Army knives of backpacks. Whether you need a daily laptop backpack for work or school, a travel companion for your next trip, or even a hiking backpack, these models can adapt to your needs.
Both the Nebula and Quasar come with very similar features, but which one should you choose? We tested each backpack to provide you with an in-depth reviews of their unique features. This detailed comparison will help you decide.
Video Review
Quick Specs
 |
 |
|
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 26L | 32L |
| Materials | Recycled Nylon PFAS-free DWR finish |
Recycled Nylon PFAS-free DWR finish |
| Dimensions | 18.9” (H) x 11.81” (W) x 10.63” (D) | 19.29” (H) x 12.2” (W) x 11.42” (D) |
| Weight | 1.76 lbs | 2.11 lbs |
| Laptop Storage | 14" Laptop Sleeve (but see our test below) |
16" Laptop Compartment |
| Tablet Sleeve | Yes | No |
| Chest Strap | Yes | Yes |
| Hip Belt | Yes | Yes |
| Price |
Quasar vs Nebula: Size and Fit
Key Takeaways:
The Osprey Nebula is larger in height, depth and width.
Both backpacks share the same size back panel and shoulder straps
Both include an adjustable chest strap and a removable waist belt
Model height 5’6” - Osprey Quasar vs Nebula
First, let's talk about size and fit. When worn, you’ll notice that the Nebula is slightly longer and a tad wider than the Quasar. The extra laptop compartment on the Nebula also makes it stick out more when worn and may not be ideal for anyone who prefers a sleeker look.
Despite the size difference, the shoulder straps and back panels of both backpacks are identical. Both packs use Osprey’s AirScape technology and feature an Atilon framesheet for structure. The extra height and width of the Nebula come from the top and sides, but the area of the back panel touching your back remains the same. Both backpacks even include the same adjustable chest strap and removable waist belt for added stability.
Shoulder straps and back panels - Osprey Nebula vs Quasar
Pockets and compartments
Key Takeaways:
The Nebula and Quasar share the same number of exterior pockets and the same front organization compartment.
The biggest difference is the Nebula’s shove-it pocket vs the Quasar’s bungee
The shove-it pocket is better for smaller items or a bike helmet while the bungee does better with items like jackets, blankets and towels.
Same top fleece-lined pocket - Osprey Quasar vs Nebula
Both the Quasar and Nebula share many of the same pockets and compartments, so you'll have no shortage of organization regardless of which one you choose. In each backpack, you’ll find large water bottle pockets that can fit a 40 oz water bottle or even a 40 oz tumbler with a handle. Each backpack also has the same fleece-lined pocket on the top, perfect for storing items like sunglasses or a phone.
Front Organizer Compartment - Osprey Quasar vs Nebula
Moving on to the inside, both backpacks feature a large organizer compartment for small items on the front. These compartments are nearly identical, with a little red key clip, slip pockets, and a large zipper pocket on top.
Shove-it Pocket vs Bungee
One standout feature of the Osprey Nebula 32 is its large, stretchy shove-it pocket, which is perfect for quickly stowing everything from a hat and gloves to a bike helmet. This pocket is pretty large, reaching all the way to the bottom of the bag, and is held together by two compression straps on top.
Bungee and shove-it pocket difference - Osprey Quasar vs Nebula
On the other hand, the Quasar features a bungee system. While we tried to attach a bike helmet to it, it’s not the most secure (we wouldn’t recommend it). The bungee is better suited for oversized items like a jacket or blanket rather than smaller or oddly shaped items. The shove-it pocket on the Nebula handles those items much better.
In short, stick with the Quasar bungee if you carry items like jackets, beach towels, blankets, or even athletic foam rollers. The bungee does a great job securing these items in place. For smaller or oddly shaped items, go with the Nebula.
Quasar vs Nebula: Laptop Storage
Key Takeaways:
The Osprey Nebula 32 has a separate rear 16” laptop compartment with a lay-flat zipper
The Quasar 26 features a laptop and tablet sleeve inside the main compartment. Our testing found that the laptop sleeve can fit up to a 15.6” laptop.
Osprey Nebula 32 - lay-flat laptop compartment
One of the most significant differences between the two backpacks is the location of the laptop storage. The Nebula has a separate laptop compartment with a lay-flat zipper, essentially creating a mobile mini-office. It has a 16-inch laptop sleeve on one side and a flat sleeve for documents with a large mesh pocket for chargers and accessories on the other.
In contrast, the Quasar's laptop sleeve is inside the main compartment. Osprey states it can hold a 14-inch laptop, but due to some stretch on the sides, we found that it can easily fit a laptop under 10 inches in depth, like a 15.6-inch PC or a 16-inch MacBook Pro as shown in the photo below.
Osprey Quasar 26 - laptop and tablet sleeves inside main compartment
The Quasar also includes a flat document sleeve and a separate padded and fleece-lined tablet sleeve, which the Nebula lacks. If a dedicated tablet sleeve is essential for you, the Quasar will be the better option.
Both backpacks have generous false bottoms to protect laptops from bumps and drops, ensuring that your devices remain safe during transit.
What Fits inside? Nebula vs Quasar
Let's explore what fits inside each backpack. With the 26-liter Quasar, one downside of having the laptop sleeve inside the main compartment is that it takes up packing room in an already smaller bag. The Nebula can take advantage of its full 32-liter capacity since it’s laptop sleeve is in a separate compartment.
Packed with same items for travel - Osprey Quasar 26 vs Nebula 32
For travel, the Quasar can easily fit:
3 t-shirts
1 sweater
2 pairs of pants
Underwear in a packing cube
A toiletries kit
However, the Nebula, when packed with the same items, has a lot more leftover space in the main compartment. Its taller height also allows for more packing space on top.
Compression straps
Compression strap location - Osprey Nebula vs Quasar
One detail that might sway your decision is the compression straps. The Nebula has compression straps that start from the shove-it pocket and extend to the side of the pack. These straps can obstruct access to the compartments, creating a bit of a hassle when you need to quickly grab something from your bag.
The Quasar, however, has only one pair of compression straps that do not interfere with any compartment zippers, allowing for much quicker access to the inside of the backpack.
Osprey Nebula 32 - Carrying a camera tripod
But the compression straps on the Nebula do have their advantages. They can act as a zipper stop to discourage pickpockets when traveling. The top straps also allow you to secure long items, like a camera tripod, to the side of the bag.
Which Osprey Backpack Should You Pick?
Osprey Nebula 32 backpack
Osprey Quasar 26 backpack
So, how do you choose between the Osprey Nebula and Quasar?
Osprey Nebula 32:
Choose the Nebula if you need more packing space and want a dedicated laptop compartment. Its larger size and extra pockets provide ample room for your belongings. The shove-it pocket is a game-changer for quick storage of items, making it ideal for those who need a versatile and spacious backpack.
Osprey Quasar 26:
Opt for the Quasar if you prefer a smaller, lighter pack. It offers a dedicated padded tablet sleeve and quicker access to the compartments since it lacks the top compression straps. The bungee system is excellent for carrying items like jackets and blankets.
Ultimately, the choice comes down to your specific needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize extra storage and organization or a more compact and accessible design, both the Nebula and Quasar have unique advantages to suit different lifestyles. Take a moment to consider what features matter most to you and choose the backpack that best fits your daily routine and adventures.
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