What's the DIFFERENCE? Osprey STRATOS 24 vs MANTA 24 Review!

[@johngill5175]

This is a perfect video. No garbage marketing, no pomp. Just all the info a person could ever want. This is such a missed market in youtube., This is how I don't have to go to a brick and mortan and can buy reliably online! So great, thanks man!

[@basecampchris]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks

[@yragoam6886]

This is amazing, I'm trying to decide between these two exact packs, so glad to someone made a comparison video of the two.

[@basecampchris]

Awesome...glad that was helpful! "Keep Hiking!"

[@enki42ea]

Would love to see an update now that both of these packs have newer versions. Also any comments on size of these vs 34? For summer hikes these packs are great but the 34 could be used for winter hikes (carry extra layers which are bulky) but unsure if that extra size would get in the way in the summer.

[@shramj]

You hands down do the best comparison videos, I think I would prefer the Manta after watching your video.

[@minghaoooo]

Awesome comparison on the nitty-gritty details! Really appreciate it and helps to decide which pack to go for!

[@basecampchris]

Hi Ming, Great! Glad that was helpful...hope it works out! I currently use the Manta.

[@brians.8544]

man you are awesome. I narrowed down which packs I wanted to these two and have been so torn. wondered if anyone out there had down a comparison and boom.....found your channel. I now know for sure I want the Manta. thanks for doing this, and Im enjoying your videos so far!

[@basecampchris]

Great-Glad I could help!

[@RoddP2020]

You do a really, really great job explaining the gears’ features and possible pros/cons, esp. relating them back to your experiences with them. Ironically, I just located your channel. Really helpful in helping me decide upon (yes, yet another pack) my upcoming purchase. Although I want the other features of the Manta, that stitching near the hip belts (in what is described by Osprey as the same type of suspension - they don’t indicate this difference and retailers don’t really make this clear, either) and that narrower waist strap is kind of a deal breaker for me. If I didn’t watch and listen to your review, I would have made the wrong purchase. From one hiker to another, thanks so much! Really great channel you have here!

[@basecampchris]

Thank you Rodd! Appreciate the support.

[@the_wanderer_files114]

You’re the man! Osprey’s own video didn’t show the Manta’s side zip pocket as well as you did. Thanks for helping me decide.

[@basecampchris]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@stoneballer]

This guy has a great spirit , love this guy

[@basecampchris]

Thank you Tim!

[@reyvaldes611]

I wanted to thank you for this video. I am new to backpacking, hiking, etc., and I am preparing to do the Camino Frances this coming summer 2023. I had reduced my choices of daypacks to the Manta and the Stratos. Your video answered a lot about f my questions and clarified some doubts I had. Much appreciated.

[@johnhogan9026]

Excellent review! Thanks for putting it together.

[@basecampchris]

Glad you liked it! I have a Atmos 50L I'm reviewing currently!

[@BronzeBellaBria]

This video is super helpful for me! I have the STRATOS 24 arriving from Amazon tomorrow and I just grabbed the MIRA 22 (female version of the MANTA 24) from REI today to compare. Really appreciate this video for my hike on Friday!

[@jaroslavhavlicek7002]

Exactly as some people wrote.. i try to decide between these two packs as well, so this video helped me a lot, thank's a lot for your effort, you went into really deep details.

[@basecampchris]

Happy to hear that!

[@eddy6510]

Hey there is this by far the best video / content . Great job . One thing I would like to suggest - if you could have some why to hang the backpacks while reviewing that would give us a better view of the backpacks. But - It's amazing what you do. Go forward

[@basecampchris]

Thank you! I think that's a good idea!

[@the2step]

Thank you for the review, this helped sway me from the Stratos to the Manta. The shove it pouch, separate section for bladder, better hydration system for feeding the tube through/ magnetic chest clasp, and angled side pockets were all clear advantages, the only thing I can really put in Stratos's court is the wider clasp/ more comfortable hip belt and cheaper cost.

[@Izzy-iu5ei]

Thank you so much for your detailed review! I need a good pack for geology field camp and I was stuck between these two packs. After watching your video I think the Mira (Manta) is the best fit for me. Stay awesome! :)

[@basecampchris]

Good suspension/ features on the Manta! Thanks Isabelle!

[@Regantdarcy]

If you plan on using a hydration bladder, the Manta is the way to go for it’s dedicated hydration compartment. The Stratos is a great pack, but if I plan to use a hydration bladder, I really do not like packs that have the hydration sleeves INSIDE the pack. Not only is it a pain to take the bladder out of a full pack to refill... there is always the risk that the bladder will leak.

[@Moneyalmenial]

Love the details. Weighing up these two options against the Talon too. Thanks!

[@basecampchris]

Hi Aiden, Great, Glad that was helpful!

[@ira4636II]

Great review - thank you! Most of the reviews of the Stratos/Sirrus don't mention the thicker, adjustable belt! ("Go Big or Go Home!" LOL) Most of the other Osprey daypacks (like the two in this review) have the thinner, clasped belt. For me, this thicker belt led to a more comfortable fit. Be well!

[@basecampchris]

Hi Carpe Diem - yes similar but different packs...I like the Manta. Keep Hiking!

[@kangjhha]

the stratos seems less complicated.. aesthecially the manta looks like a good bag not only for the outdoors but for travelling as well. I went with the stratos 34, thanks for the review!

[@basecampchris]

Good for you...you'll enjoy it! Keep Hiking!

[@RobinsonGingerich]

Thanks for such a detailed review! It helped me choose which one to get. I always enjoy your videos

[@brandongraham8833]

Thanks for the comparison Chris. I decided to get the Manta and love it so far. Taking it on the Cactus to Clouds hike next where I will need the 4.5 liter water capacity.

[@basecampchris]

Hi Brandon, Very welcome! Manta is my favorite day pack! Enjoy the Cactus to Clouds hike! Sounds like a great challenge....10K elevation gain!

[@MichaelCMeyer]

You could also mention that the Manta is targeted for bicyclists and runners. Would be convenient for local cross country skiing and snowshoeing. Stratos is targeted for hikers and heavier loads thus the thicker waist belt.

[@basecampchris]

Hi Michael, I use the Manta 24 for snowshoeing/ and hiking...I can carry a lot of winter gear. Good idea to mention the different users like bicyclist and runners. Thanks for watching.

[@madhatter8996]

Bought the Stratos 24 this spring and I'm very happy with the pack thus far. It's a great day pack.

[@basecampchris]

That ones very comfortable and popular too.

[@brianperhamus5227]

I needed a new/more advanced hiking day pack for some upcoming travel trips i have planned this summer (alaska & yellowstone) and was torn between a bunch of the different osprey packs available. This video is super helpful and I appreciate all the attention to the differences in the little details bewteen these two! looks like i will be ordering the Manta 24! thanks for all the tips!

[@jamessummerlin9516]

Nice comparison. Really like your background setup.

[@basecampchris]

Thanks James! "Keep Hiking!"

[@aqualungs77]

Very helpful! My brain hurts froma weekend of reading and comparing.. i really needed the visuals

[@yudiherdiana4979]

I was thinking to get the medium Stratos (34) as I already own the Stratos 50; yet eventually, I chose Manta for its mesh front pocket, dedicated reservoir compartment, and better mesh material. I wish manta has dedicated bottom compartment, but that's fine with me. If manta has bottom compartment, it will 'kill' stratos anyway :). Thanks for the comparison video :)

[@basecampchris]

You're welcome. Glad it was helpful.

[@chrisjonesbc]

Brother your review was solid, Thank you!

[@basecampchris]

Hey Thanks Chris!

[@johnconnors3390]

Great review and side-by-side comparison. Definitely helped me decide. FYI, when you talk about the rain covers, you call the Manta the Stratos and vice versa.

[@basecampchris]

Yes- flipped them in my head...prefer the Manta ...both are decent packs.

[@gavintimson5940]

I came on to look at the Stratos on another video, and this follwed straight afte, so here by luck. Glad I did, as that is a nice comparison . I have the Quasar which is about 10 years old. Brilliant for work and shopping, and love it. I do a lot of hiking now, so the comfort of the air flow at the back, and water resistant, plus cover has got me looking. Never thought of the Manta. I have still decided to get a Stratos, as they are reduced a lot in the UK, which would be around £70 difference . which would be around $85 for you, and I have no need of the hydration pack. Thanks for the great review :)

[@basecampchris]

Very welcome...glad you enjoyed it.

[@michaelregan427]

Awesome video thank you for doing this comparison. I was torn between the two packs but with your help I think the manta is the pack for me.

[@basecampchris]

Great to hear! I like the Manta too.

[@joeg766]

Hey Chris, Great review of each pack. Seems like the Manta has the edge for me. I had recent hip surgery and a bad shoulder. Between the two, which is easier on the hip and shoulder?

[@basecampchris]

Hey Joe, I think they are very similar as far as hip belt comfort...you may want to go to a local REI or sporting goods store and try them on and compare. ( add some weight ) see what works for you.

[@goldsmith001]

Excellent review, I enjoyed it very much!

[@basecampchris]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thank you.

[@gavinstinson9450]

awesome comparison video! thanks so much :)

[@basecampchris]

Glad you liked it!

[@silverhikerman5527]

Having bought the Stratos 24 last year, I wish I'd waited and bought another Osprey bag. The big problem is that most people overlook (me included) how the space in the main compartment is reduced by all the external pockets that open into it, this also includes the bladder sleeve. These pockets really reduces the carrying space within the pack. If you try and force kit into the main compartment, you run the risk of puncturing the bladder. The carrying of the bag with all its adjustments makes the bag very comfortable to wear, I just wish that Osprey had independent external compartments with pockets that did not open into the main carrying compartment.

[@basecampchris]

Silver Hikerman, That's why I like the Manta 24 the reservoir sleeve is separate...I don't always carry a water bladder as well. The larger sizes in these packs gives a little more main compartment room too. But yes Osprey trys to fit a lot onto a 24L

[@Whataiveur]

@@basecampchris Thank you for this really detailed review! Do you think that the reservoir sleeve could carry a 13" Laptop instead? I wish Opsrey could make that kind of backpack style, but with a padded laptop compartiment... There is the Momentum, but it doesn't come with the Air Speed system :(

[@peterzinni669]

Thanks Chris, great Video. I was leaning toward the Stratos but your comparison has me thinking the Manta may be a better choice for me

[@basecampchris]

Thanks - The Manta is the one I went with...both are decent packs.

[@garysoucie2031]

Thanks for the detail! Very helpful.

[@andyneff2640]

Great review Chris. Thanks!

[@basecampchris]

Glad you liked it!

[@nikondaveman]

Great review. I decided on the Stratos. The zip front pocket I find very secure and its handy for a compact camera.

[@basecampchris]

The Stratos 24 is a very good pack...Enjoy! ( great place for a small camera )

[@nikondaveman]

Base Camp Chris You do great reviews..so good I could end up buying them all 😁

[@ManivanAdventures]

Cancelled my order for the Stratos after this video and ordered the Manta. My Manta just arrived and I couldn’t be happier with my decision! Such a nice pack!

[@basecampchris]

Good for you...a rock solid pack. Love Mine.

[@jaysun070476]

Got the manta ag 36 for 98 dollars in a blow out sell its a awsome pack. But its geared towards hiking not biking . The stratos 34 has more comfortable hipbelts for biking plus it has a bottom loading sleeping bag compartment thats perfect for bike tools. I noticed these smaller packs 24 liters are expensive up a 160 dollars on some websites.

[@basecampchris]

yes they can be expensive...sometimes the Osprey website has deals.

[@ncruncher722]

Great video and thanks for the finer details! I’m going to Yellowstone and wanted to get a new bag. I’m gonna go with the Manta!

[@basecampchris]

Thanks - Enjoy Yellowstone! I used to work there during the summer.

[@Taffer-bx7uc]

You remind me a Mr. Rogers if he did a hiking instead of Mr. Roger's Neighborhood

[@basecampchris]

That's Funny...I gotta see that Tom Hanks movie about Mr. R!

[@UnusualWarrior]

Man, I thought the same thing. Just picked up the Manta in both sizes. Good stuff, you're entertaining.

[@ira4636II]

Agreed - he made me giggle while providing the info.

[@michaels8607]

I have the Manta the next size up. Now when I use hydration bladders, I fill them up, flatten them and place them in the freezer for about 1-2 days. Then I carry a separate Nalgene bottle frozen or a 40 ounce thermos bottle full of ice and something to drink. That way, if you are riding far distances, you drink out of the bottles, then still have the bladder for later, and will be riding/hiking hands free. I need to probably get another Manta in case they stop making them.

[@JordanMW]

Just purchased the Stratos 34 my self, absolutely love it, the perfect day hike pack. One note to add, I first ordered the large version and felt it was a tad bit too tall. So I swapped it for the small version which is 2" shorter and you only lose 2L of storage.

[@basecampchris]

Nice adjustment to move down in size and make it work.

[@bigroo]

Great video Chris. My mind was already made up for the Manta 24 but this video has definitely reinforced my opinion. I have Salmon and UD packs but love my Exos 38 which is fantastic for wild camping but I want a multi day eventing pack which I can run with. The Airspeed backsystem really sells it for me also the smaller buckles but I would like to know what your opinion is for running with it.

[@basecampchris]

The Stratos is lighter and slightly narrower I believe...I would go with the Stratos for trail running.

[@bigroo]

@@basecampchris Hi Chris, thank you for your reply, you've only made it harder now! I'm going to throw into the mix the OMM classic 25. I guess I need to strap them to my back and see!

[@jaysun070476]

I own the manta 36 it uses anti gravitivy desighn thus the ag after the manta . The manta 36 also has the magnetic water hose clip and a dedicated compartment seperate from the main comportment for the hydration bladder. So this adds more space to the main compartment. I really wish they added a bottom loader pocket on the manta like the atmos 34.

[@basecampchris]

A lot of capacity with the Manta 36 ...it would be worth a look. I definitely like the dedicated compartment for the hydration as well. Thanks for watching Jason!

[@comingofkym]

This was a very informative video, thank you! I’ve been contemplating the osprey daypacks for the LONGEST time. Osprey needs to have a customizable bag…

[@basecampchris]

Glad it was helpful! Customizable bag is a great idea!

[@troutfisher7182]

Trekking pole holders are handy. If you go ultra light, it looks like there's enough space in the manta to backpack for a few nights.

[@shali980]

Nice video. Really helpful. Thanks

[@basecampchris]

Glad it was helpful!

[@CarschA]

You do the best reviews.

[@robertmartin8668]

Great job buddy, thank you for this.

[@basecampchris]

Hi Robert, thank you...glad it was helpful! "Keep Hiking!"

[@pauledwards1157]

Very nice review!

[@basecampchris]

Thanks!

[@jons4686]

I already ordered the Stratos for 100 dollars on Amazon warehouse. I can tell from this review I won't be disappointed. If I were paying full retail perhaps I would have considered the Manta.

[@basecampchris]

Wow...that's a great price. Both are excellent packs.

[@TerminalElement]

Thank you for making this video.

[@basecampchris]

Glad it was helpful!

[@user-ry5pp6mj9x]

Nice review . And I go for manta 👍. Keep it up

[@basecampchris]

Thank you! Appreciated..."Keep Hiking!" (I know... Manta is a really solid pack! )

[@user-ry5pp6mj9x]

@@basecampchris one day after watching your video, i go to local gear store, get the black manta 24, and I still happy for my decision until now I wrote this comment. Thanks 👍

[@basecampchris]

Oh that's great...Glad it's working out for you! :)

[@-NateTheGreat]

I compared these side by side at Cabela's and can say the Manta has the edge in most catagories that are important to me. Having a dedicated water pouch is nice and the Manta looks and feels a little more rugged. Just kinda meh about the Mantas skinny waist belt

[@basecampchris]

Interesting, I agree the Manta just seems beefier and more up to the task! (It's my go to day pack)

[@scottw6960]

Great detailed review!

[@jeffscustomcarpentry6928]

Nice video you sold me on the manta 24 thanks

[@basecampchris]

Glad that was helpful! The Manta 24 is my go to day pack!

[@warrenmcdevett8581]

Great review!

[@basecampchris]

Thanks!

[@crock921]

i thought the stratos had the sleeping bag compartment on the bottom. I did not see you mention it.

[@basecampchris]

Hi Jason, The Stratos 24 does not have a dedicated sleeping bag compartment...it does have a zippered access at the bottom for the rain cover...The Stratos 34 which is also a panel loader DOES have the zippered sleeping bag compartment. Stratos 34 review: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y3nMaX6hjt17jpI&feature=emb_logo

[@Stachon_]

Awesome review really the best !! I have stratos 24 but sometimes I regret not taking 34, can you make a video about stratos 24 vs 34 I'm curious how much bigger 34 is 😂

[@basecampchris]

Consider it.... Thank you!! You could talk to Osprey they might upgrade you to the 34 if you call them...1-866-284-7830 ya never now.

[@oscarhuynh8066]

Great vid for those needing a daypack so they can decide which pack is for them. There are features I liked on both packs. Maybe one day, Osprey will allow a custom ordered pack, similar to a custom ordered suit... or not, and Osprey will allow the cottage venders to continue to prosper in this niche field since Osprey is dominating the overall market currently for quite some time.

[@basecampchris]

Thank you Oscar! That's a really good idea to have some features that you could add or subtract to a custom backpack order. I think adding a dedicated cell phone compartment is where they should go next. ( preferably on the belt or shoulder strap ) :)

[@sharingtheadventure]

Great comparison. You mixed their names multiple times but it’s hard to fault you for that given how in-depth you went on each one. I thank you very much for your time and sharing all this. Great job

[@basecampchris]

Thanks Dale...yes I was reversing them in my mind while looking at camera flip out screen. LOL

[@joshuakroger8563]

I love your reviews bro!

[@joshuakroger8563]

A fun idea/concept would be to collect packs from thrift stores and review the best deal or seek the best. I found a big kelty back pack and a North face fanny pack for fishing both $10 or less.

[@joshuakroger8563]

PS. I love gear talk.

[@basecampchris]

Yes,The gear is what gets us to our happy place!! :)

[@basecampchris]

Hi Joshua, I like that...gear treasure hunting...That is quite a pick up from a Thrift Store! Good Find.

[@stevenp2883]

Stratos for me. I don't use hydration bladders... and prefer the smaller pack. I'll only use the front pocket for flat things... Beanie, phone, etc... Boop!

[@sheldoorandrew3308]

Great comparison video.. Are you related to Will Ferrell?

[@basecampchris]

Could be an uncle...but no! He's a funny cat! Thanks for watching.

[@sevenli2675]

very good video，have you got chance to compare stratos 34 vs manta34？ or they are almost the same situation except different size？😀

[@basecampchris]

Thanks ....I have not ...I believe they are similar except larger size though. I'd have to see them side by side and compare.

[@christopherlethgo7383]

Great review! Do the Stratos and the Manta have the same amount of curvature away from your back?

[@basecampchris]

They are similar...the Stratos is a little closer to your back with the Air Speed suspension.

[@johnnyboy2674]

New to your channel. Watched plenty of videos. Great content. Keep it coming. Are you on Instagram?

[@basecampchris]

Hey Thanks John! Yes, go to my home page / upper right corner/ Instagram link( icon )

[@johnnyboy2674]

@@basecampchris I've located you, my friend.

[@basecampchris]

John, awesome...welcome to the channel!

[@h.junior8218]

can i fit a 13 inches laptop in the hydration pocket of the manta 24?

[@basecampchris]

I would think that a 13" would fit...not sure how it feels on the back cloths or jacket could be padded around it.

[@lesspam6601]

Very helpful video

[@basecampchris]

Thank you!

[@OliverLee8]

Can the Manta fit a 16' MACBOOK at the hydration chamber? Thx

[@basecampchris]

I have a 16" lap top as well ...I believe this would fit a 16 ( But...I'll have to check it when I get back off my road trip )

[@WeekendsOutsideFL]

Stratos seems a bit simpler and more conventional, albeit perhaps less advanced, and I agree with others that these two do seem like they’re marketed for slightly different purposes.

[@MichaelChelen]

I want the dedicated hydration compartment and mesh back pocket from the Manta with the slim profile and wider belt of the Stratos 😅

[@basecampchris]

I think that pack would be called the Man-Tos!

[@MichaelChelen]

@@basecampchris 😂😂😂

[@rodenwald]

which one is better ventilated?

[@kailen98]

Can the manta 24 be used as a carry on?

[@basecampchris]

The dimensions of the Manta 24 are approx. 21 x 14 ...so yes it should fit. Check your specific airline for measurements...but here is a general description of flight carry on info.... Airlines often specify that a carry-on bag may not exceed 45 linear inches (length plus width plus height). ... JetBlue and Southwest, for example, allow bigger bags that measure at most 24 inches long, 16 inches wide and 10 inches high. The solution, as always, is to read your airline's website.

[@kailen98]

Base Camp Chris do you know if those measurements are for the upper compartment? Because usually if I can I like to have my backpack at my feet under the seat in front of me.

[@salsalvio929]

Kailen Bittner for domestic US travel it will definitely fit in the upper compartment considering I travel with a 60 liter backpack as my carry on. Af for under the seat, it’s going to be quite tight, especially if you’re tall and aren’t in a window seat

[@LedMV007]

Does the chest strap on the Manta really give a good hold? I worry the magnet won’t keep the tension without popping off

[@basecampchris]

The chest strap gives a solid hold...the magnet attaches to the hose and works well you just need the hose to not bend away from you while attaching. I'd go into a store REI for example and try it on and see what you think!

[@LedMV007]

Base Camp Chris thanks!!

[@scotsanders323]

my, how the prices have skyrocketed.

[@CarryQuandaries]

Thanks for this comparison! Would you say the Manta will fit more in real world use than the Stratos?

[@heaye]

What about 2022 new ?

[@netzkabuff]

Would you be able to fit a 15 inch laptop computer into the hydration compartment of the Manta (instead of the hydration pack)?

[@basecampchris]

the zippered hydration compartment is 10.5 " wide at the top and 17" deep...I put my 15" HP Envy x360 into it no problem!

[@netzkabuff]

Base Camp Chris Thanks! I thought this could be a problem, because the back is not flat but a curve. But this makes it an absolute winner imo.

[@danmca4410]

Legend !

[@rustypipe]

👍🏻

[@basecampchris]

Thank U!

[@elgakusuma9641]

What will you chose? Manta or stratos?

[@basecampchris]

Hi Elga, I like the Manta 24 because of the outside stretch mesh cargo pocket on the back/ also the large zippered compartment right behind that with the mesh holder/ key holder inside really works for me. Thanks for watching!

[@joshuakroger8563]

The lighter one that holds a bladder. Then again you could always improvise with the less expensove pack, but you always have to worry about a bladder leak.

[@DrDennis]

Don’t like that weinie waist belt in Manta.

[@overlandpatchesusa1104]

who wants to be a hero and summarize this for me so I dont have to waste 20 minutes? Thank you!

[@basecampchris]

Hey - very welcome! Keep Hiking!

[@mnava211]

Your measuring is cringey