● Travel Backpacks · Comparison

Amazon Basics Convertible Carry-On Backpack vs MATEIN Business Laptop Backpack

Both made our Best Travel Backpacks Under $100 shortlist, at #1 and #3. Here's how they differ and who each one suits.

✎ PickHonest Research Desk▦ Updated October 15, 2026◷ 4 min read

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Picks are based on manufacturer specs, independent reviews and owner reports.

Amazon Basics Convertible Carry-On BackpackAmazon Basics Convertible Carry-On BackpackView on Amazon VS
MATEIN Business Laptop BackpackMATEIN Business Laptop BackpackView on Amazon

Quick verdict

Choose the Amazon Basics Convertible Carry-On Backpack if you want carry-on dimensions clear most domestic airline sizers. Choose the MATEIN Business Laptop Backpack if you'd rather have personal-item sized, so it rides free under the seat alongside checked or carry-on luggage. Overall we rank the Amazon Basics Convertible Carry-On Backpack higher: #1 versus #3 in our Best Travel Backpacks Under $100 list.

Winner overall: Amazon Basics Convertible Carry-On Backpack

Amazon Basics Convertible Carry-On Backpack vs MATEIN Business Laptop Backpack compared

Every difference that matters, in one table.

Keep researching

  • Best Travel Backpacks Under $100
  • Amazon Basics Convertible Carry-On Backpack review
  • MATEIN Business Laptop Backpack review
  • All travel backpacks

Bottom line

Choose the Amazon Basics Convertible Carry-On Backpack if you want carry-on dimensions clear most domestic airline sizers. Choose the MATEIN Business Laptop Backpack if you'd rather have personal-item sized, so it rides free under the seat alongside checked or carry-on luggage. Overall we rank the Amazon Basics Convertible Carry-On Backpack higher: #1 versus #3 in our Best Travel Backpacks Under $100 list.

Amazon Basics Convertible Carry-On Backpack
Top pick

Amazon Basics Convertible Carry-On Backpack

Amazon Basics

Carry-on dimensions clear most domestic airline sizers

  • 1.55 cubic foot ma in capacity, expandable for 10% extra space
  • 13.8 x 21.5 x 9.5 inches, carry-on sized
  • Convertible backpack and shoulder bag straps
  • Dedicated laptop compartment
  • Multiple organizational pockets

Pros

  • Personal-item sized, so it rides free under the seat alongside checked or carry-on luggage
  • Highest ratings volume in this list at over 20,000 ratings

Cons

  • Too small to serve as a standalone bag for more than 1 to 2 days of clothing
  • Built more as a daily commuter or business bag than a dedicated travel pack
  • Laptop compartment padding is adequate but not premium-grade
Prices and availability change, so confirm on Amazon.View on Amazon
MATEIN Business Laptop Backpack

MATEIN Business Laptop Backpack

MATEIN

Personal-item sized, so it rides free under the seat alongside checked or carry-on luggage

  • 15.6-inch laptop compartment
  • Water-resistant fabric
  • Anti-theft pocket
  • Luggage strap to slide over a suitcase handle
  • USB charging port pass-through

Pros

  • Personal-item sized, so it rides free under the seat alongside checked or carry-on luggage
  • Highest ratings volume in this list at over 20,000 ratings

Cons

  • Too small to serve as a standalone bag for more than 1 to 2 days of clothing
  • Built more as a daily commuter or business bag than a dedicated travel pack
  • Laptop compartment padding is adequate but not premium-grade
Prices and availability change, so confirm on Amazon.View on Amazon

FAQ

Common questions

Which is better, the Amazon Basics Convertible Carry-On Backpack or the MATEIN Business Laptop Backpack?

Choose the Amazon Basics Convertible Carry-On Backpack if you want carry-on dimensions clear most domestic airline sizers. Choose the MATEIN Business Laptop Backpack if you'd rather have personal-item sized, so it rides free under the seat alongside checked or carry-on luggage. Overall we rank the Amazon Basics Convertible Carry-On Backpack higher: #1 versus #3 in our Best Travel Backpacks Under $100 list.

What is the difference between the Amazon Basics Convertible Carry-On Backpack and the MATEIN Business Laptop Backpack?

The Amazon Basics Convertible Carry-On Backpack stands out because carry-on dimensions clear most domestic airline sizers, while the MATEIN Business Laptop Backpack stands out because personal-item sized, so it rides free under the seat alongside checked or carry-on luggage. The trade-offs differ too: the Amazon Basics Convertible Carry-On Backpack's ma in caveat is that no frame suspension, so a fully packed bag feels heavier on the shoulders than a structured pack, and the MATEIN Business Laptop Backpack's is that too small to serve as a standalone bag for more than 1 to 2 days of clothing.

Is the Amazon Basics Convertible Carry-On Backpack worth it over the MATEIN Business Laptop Backpack?

For most buyers, yes: it's our #1 pick. Consider the MATEIN Business Laptop Backpack instead if no frame suspension, so a fully packed bag feels heavier on the shoulders than a structured pack is a deal-breaker for you.

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