90.6
Best for long-haul travelers and families who need maximum packing volume
- 8.5 lbs total weight
- 2 inch expandable capacity
- Contoured PowerScope handle
$225
Head to head · Luggage
Hard Shell Carry on Luggage Airline Approved vs Grace Carry on Luggage Airline Approved
Ravvy scores Hard Shell Carry on Luggage Airline Approved at 89.43 and Grace Carry on Luggage Airline Approved at 89.46. Grace Carry on Luggage Airline Approved takes the overall pick, best for business travelers and digital nomads who need quick tech access.
$160
Buy the LEVEL8 Luminous if you want a high quality polycarbonate shell and superior wheels at a mid range price, provided you do not mind the lack of an external pocket.
Ravvy pick
89.5
$119
Buy the LEVEL8 Grace if you want to skip the laptop bag entirely, provided you can handle a slightly heavier base weight than standard hardshells.
How they score
| Factor | Hard Shell Carry on Luggage Airline Approved | Grace Carry on Luggage Airline Approved |
|---|---|---|
| Mobility | 94 | – |
| Durability | 88.5 | – |
| Portability | 90.5 | 82.5 |
| Aesthetic Appeal | 91 | – |
| Storage Efficiency | 82 | – |
| Organization | – | 96 |
| Maneuverability | – | 94.5 |
| Shell Integrity | – | 88 |
| Tech Protection | – | 91 |
Hard Shell Carry on Luggage Airline Approved
What owners praise
- Durable 3-layer polycarbonate shell
- Exceptionally quiet 360 degree spinner wheels
- Micro-textured finish resists visible scratching
- Generous 40L internal packing capacity
- Solid 4-level adjustable aluminum handle
What to know first
- No external pocket for quick laptop access
- Lacks an expandable zipper for extra space
- Interior compression straps are basic
Skip it if over packers or travelers who need quick access to a laptop during security
Grace Carry on Luggage Airline Approved
What owners praise
- Front-loading pocket for easy 15.6 inch laptop access
- Expansion zipper provides up to 42L of total volume
- Whisper quiet 360 degree dual spinner wheels
- Scratch resistant micro diamond surface texture
- Built in TSA combination lock for dual compartments
What to know first
- Heavier than non-expandable models at 9 pounds
- Front pocket eats into internal packing space
- Expansion may exceed some strict budget airline limits
Skip it if ultralight purists or those who rarely travel with a laptop
Specs side by side
| Spec | Hard Shell Carry on Luggage Airline Approved | Grace Carry on Luggage Airline Approved |
|---|---|---|
| ASIN | B07MXF4G8K | B083PX1TDL |
| Size | Carry-On 20 Inch | 20 Inch - Expandable |
| Color | Black | Blue |
| Theme | Elegance, Luminescence | – |
| Pattern | Solid | Solid |
| Capacity | 40 liters | 36 liters |
| Lock Type | Combination Lock | Combination Lock |
| Brand Name | LEVEL8 | LEVEL8 |
| Shell Type | Hard | Hard |
| Strap Type | Fixed, Telescopic | Stretchable |
| Style Name | Hardside Luggage With Spinner Wheels | Textured |
| Unit Count | 1 Count | 1 Count |
Other options in this category
90.4
Best for business professionals and organized vacationers who check bags
- Patented Precision Glide wheel system
- Adjustable 4-stop PowerScope handle
- Built-in TSA compliant lock
$413
89.8
Samsonite
Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage
Best for long-term travelers and families needing high-volume checked storage
- 100% Polycarbonate construction
- 360-degree multi-directional wheels
- Full-zip interior divider
$155