Alpaka Metro Backpack Pro vs Alpaka Essential Backpack (16L)
Alpaka Metro Backpack Pro ($179) vs Alpaka Essential Backpack (16L) ($159) — side-by-side specs, weight, pros and cons to help you pick the right backpack.
Spec-by-spec
| Spec | Alpaka Metro Backpack Pro | Alpaka Essential Backpack (16L) |
| Price | $179 | $159 |
| Weight | 1300g | 600g |
| Capacity | 24L | 16L |
| Fits | a 16" laptop, water bottle, daily gear | — |
| Material | X-Pac X42 / Axoflux | X-Pac VX21 |
| Carry | Backpack | — |
| Weight | 1300g | 600g |
| Also in | — | Axoflux 210D |
| Colors | — | Black, Green |
| Released | — | First listed 2026-08-25 |
Pros & Cons
Alpaka Metro Backpack Pro
- 24L 16" laptop commuter
- Refined Metro organization
- X-Pac X42 weatherproofing
- Premium price
- More than a minimalist needs
Alpaka Essential Backpack (16L)
- 600 g as published on ALPAKA's page
- X-Pac VX21
- Covered by ALPAKA's warranty
- Sold direct from ALPAKA, so no easy price comparison
Alpaka Essential Backpack (16L) is the better value at $159. Both are part of our curated backpack index — tap through to check current pricing.