Are you struggling to decide which of these types of luggage is better? Are you looking to compare abs vs polycarbonate luggage? If so, you’re in the right place.
If you like to travel, good quality luggage is one of the most important things you need. And the good news is that there are many different types of luggage. So you may think, that’s easy, I can buy one of them quickly and according to my needs. Well, that’s not really true.
Whenever you go to the market to buy your luggage, you should always check the material used in its construction as this will determine its lifetime, but also it will determine if the material is good enough to protect your goods, clothes, etc.
The 6 Best Polycarbonate and ABS You Can Buy
There is a myriad of options to choose from when it comes to buying luggage, but we narrowed it down to the very best of options to make sure you’re good to go when you want to travel. The first three luggage listed below are of Polycarbonate manufacture and the other ones are ABS type:
- #1. Samsonite Solyte DLX Expandable Softside Luggage
- #2. Briggs & Riley Torq-Hardside Checked Large Spinner Luggage
- #3. Samsonite Omni Expandable Hardside Luggage
- #4. American Tourister Moonlight Hardside Luggage
- #5. HAUPTSTADTKOFFER Luggage set
- #6. Rockland Luggage
Abs and polycarbonate are two of the most common materials used in the construction of luggage. They are both unique and good in their own ways. However, there is a big difference in both when it comes to performance. If we compare abs vs. polycarbonate, there will be several factors involved. It is hard to decide which is better than the other on the basis of a single factor, and that is why we have to keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing one.
Moreover, the biggest thing that will play a role in deciding which is better in abs vs. polycarbonate is your requirements. Preferred material between the two will depend on your needs as well. If you are looking to buy luggage in the market, here are some factors that you should keep in mind. Let’s have a look at them.
Below these factors, I’ll provide you 3 abs and 3 polycarbonate luggage reviews. You can choose which one is most suitable for your needs, having read and understood the different factors in taking into account before buying a suitcase.
Abs vs. Polycarbonate: Factors to keep in mind while choosing one
1. Abs vs polycarbonate prices
Price is always one of the biggest factors to consider whenever you go to the market to buy something. The same is the case while buying luggage, and it is important because there are hundreds of products to choose from. Moreover, there are different price ranges of luggage, and you will need to keep your budget in mind while choosing the right option.
Especially when it comes to abs vs. polycarbonate luggage, price is going to play a big role. Abs luggage is usually available in the market at an affordable price, whereas this is not the case with polycarbonate luggage. Polycarbonate luggage is available at a comparatively higher price than abs.
The price difference may not be that much in some cases, but there will always be a little difference in abs vs. polycarbonate. So, if you have a limited budget, going for abs luggage will be a better option; however, if you don’t care about the budget, you should go for polycarbonate luggage.
2. Durability
When it comes to the durability of abs vs. polycarbonate, there is a clear winner. Polycarbonate luggage does an amazing job in durability and lasts for a long time. Whereas, abs luggage is left out in the race in this case. It isn’t as durable as polycarbonate luggage. Polycarbonate has greater impact resistance, which plays an important role in making a product durable. It means that polycarbonate luggage has a greater capability of getting flexibility as well.
It can easily be pushed back into its original state, and this is something that plays an important role when it comes to durability. However, this isn’t the case with abs luggage, and it has less impact resistance comparatively. If we look at this factor, polycarbonate luggage is more desirable. So, if you want to buy luggage that lasts for a long time, going with polycarbonate luggage will be a better option. However, it is going to cost you more as compared to abs luggage.
3. Usage
This is one of the most important things to keep in mind while deciding the suitable one between abs vs. polycarbonate. Before investing in any product, you should be clear about your usage. If you are a person who regularly goes on trips, going with polycarbonate luggage will be a better option for you. Polycarbonate luggage is better in such cases because it is more durable as compared to abs luggage and does a better job in the longer run.
However, if you are a person who goes on trips occasionally, going with abs luggage will be a better option. Yes, it is less durable in comparison to polycarbonate luggage, but it won’t get damaged if used occasionally. Moreover, it will save you some money as well. Since abs luggage is cheaper when it comes to price, you won’t have to invest a lot of money. Also, if you are looking for luggage for kids, going with abs material will be the right option again.
But, if you have to carry important stuff like laptops and other delicate things, polycarbonate luggage will be a better option. It will keep your stuff safe, and you won’t have to worry about it getting damaged. However, it will cost you comparatively higher. So, you should always think about how you are going to use the luggage before investing in it.
4. Weight
Abs luggage is lighter as compared to polycarbonate. This is a huge factor that comes into play while buying luggage. People often like lighter luggage because it reduces the overall weight after putting your stuff into it. Since the weight of the material used in the construction will also get added to the total weight of the luggage, abs luggage wins the race in this case.
However, polycarbonate luggage is heavier due to the strong material used in its construction. But, it would still mean that you will have to carry heavier luggage in the case of polycarbonate material. This is a factor in which people often have different choices. Still, it is important to be aware of the weight of the luggage before investing in it. So, the next time you go to the market to buy luggage, make sure that you keep this factor in mind.
5. Brand
All the big names in the market are known to manufacture polycarbonate luggage. It is hard to find an abs luggage that has a known brand tag on it. This is because of the fact that polycarbonate material is stronger, and such companies focus on quality. Most of the abs luggage that you will find will not have a known brand tag on them. Companies that focus on producing affordable luggage use abs material.
So, if you want to buy luggage that has a brand tag, it will be hard to find abs luggage. But, if the brand doesn’t matter much to you and you are a little tight on money, you can go with abs luggage.
6. Quality
When it comes to deciding the better one in abs vs. polycarbonate, quality is an important factor to consider. The quality of polycarbonate material is comparatively better, and this plays an important role in the durability as well. However, this doesn’t mean abs material is of bad quality. It is used in the construction of luggage for a reason. But, if we compare the two, polycarbonate material will always win the race.
This again will depend on your usage, and you should choose accordingly. If you are buying luggage for kids, going for abs material will be fine. Also, if you have a low budget, you can save up some money for quality by going with abs material. But, if you have the right budget and want to have good quality luggage, polycarbonate material will be the best option to go with.
7. Strength
The strength of polycarbonate material is better in comparison with abs material. You will be able to carry much heavier stuff in polycarbonate luggage. In abs luggage, you won’t be able to carry heavy stuff because it lacks in strength. It won’t do a much better job in this case. But, this again is something that you will have to decide according to your needs.
If you are buying luggage for kids, or you don’t need to carry heavy stuff, going with abs luggage will be a better option. You will save some money, and it will be a smart investment. But, if you usually carry heavy stuff, abs luggage won’t perform well and going with it won’t be the right decision. So, you should go for polycarbonate luggage in such cases. No matter which material you go with, make sure you keep this factor in mind while buying luggage.
8. Design
There is not much difference in both polycarbonate and abs luggage when it comes to the design. However, there will be a small difference in both as there is a difference in their price as well. Since polycarbonate luggage is available in the market at higher prices, you will get better design options to choose from. Abs luggage is available at lower prices, and you won’t have much flexibility in such cases.
Since the focus of companies that use abs material in their products is producing cost-effective luggage, they don’t pay much attention to the design. However, this doesn’t mean you won’t get attractive designs in abs luggage. They come in decent designs, but the winner in abs vs. polycarbonate when it comes to design is polycarbonate material. So, it is important to keep this factor in mind when you are buying luggage.
9. Color
Color doesn’t have anything to do with the performance of the luggage; however, it does play an important role in its looks. If you search for polycarbonate luggage, you will find multiple color options to choose from, and this is because companies have a margin to spare on the looks in this case.
In the case of abs luggage, the price is already less, and companies do not invest much in providing different color options to choose from. You will have fewer options to choose from while buying abs luggage. However, if you do find a good looking design and color, you can go with abs luggage. But, if you want to buy good looking luggage with multiple color options to choose from, polycarbonate luggage is the right option for you.
Well, these are the factors that you should keep in mind before buying luggage. Deciding which is better in abs vs. polycarbonate is hard to do, considering only one factor. But, if we keep all these factors in mind, it will be easier to pick one. Also, the key here is to keep your needs in mind before choosing one. If you are clear about your needs and budget, it will be much easier for you to buy the right product.
We have made a list of luggage constructed with both materials. You can go through this list and find suitable luggage according to your needs. Let’s have a look at the products.
Best Polycarbonate Luggage
#1. Samsonite Solyte DLX Expandable Softside Luggage
Samsonite is one of the leading brands that deal with luggage. This product from the brand does an amazing job when it comes to durability and performance. The strength of the material used in the construction of the luggage is amazing, and you will be able to carry heavy stuff in it easily. Moreover, it is a durable material that will last for a long time. It will save you money in the long run as you won’t have to invest in new luggage for a long time.
However, it is available at a high price, and you will need to invest a good amount of money. But, the flexibility that you are getting in color options is amazing. You can choose from three different color variants, and all of them look amazing. Moreover, you are getting a three-piece set, which makes the price look pretty genuine.
There are four multi-directional spinner wheels that will make things easier for you. The zipper used in the luggage is also high-quality. All in all, it is an amazing option to go with, and if you have the right budget, it will be a smart investment.
Pros
- Good quality
- Durable
- Four multi-directional wheels
Cons
- The price is a little high – You pay for quality
#2. Briggs & Riley Torq-Hardside Checked Large Spinner Luggage
If the looks of your luggage matter to you, this is one of the best options to go with. The design and the color of this product make it look amazing. You will also get to choose from four different color options, and all of them look good. Moreover, it is available in multiple sizes, and you can buy the one that fits right according to your needs.
Furthermore, the spinner wheels are of good quality, which allows it to move 360-degree. It is available at a high price, but the quality that you are getting in return is amazing. This makes it an amazing option to go with. However, you will need to keep your budget in mind before investing in this product.
It is a little heavy, and this weight will add to the total weight of the luggage. Other than that, there is no downside to this luggage. So, if you have the right budget, you can go for it without thinking twice.
Pros
- Multiple color options
- Multiple size options
- Good design
- Durable
Cons
- Price could have been less
#3. Samsonite Omni Expandable Hardside Luggage
This is a three-piece set, and if we look at the price tag of the product, it is a great option to go with. It is available at an affordable price, considering the fact that you are getting three different sizes in a single package. Moreover, you are getting a ten-year limited warranty on the luggage, which makes it even more appealing to customers.
When it comes to the durability of the luggage, you don’t have to worry about anything. It will last for a long time, and you can use it on a regular basis as well. The color options that you are getting to choose from are amazing, and you will be happy with the looks of the luggage.
The quality of the zippers and wheels is also amazing. This product does well in all fields, and it is quite affordable as well. So, if good quality luggage is what you are looking for, this is a good option to go with.
Pros
- Good quality
- Amazing design
- Multiple color options
Cons
- No cons at this price
Best Abs Luggage
#4. American Tourister Moonlight Hardside Luggage
American Tourister is known to produce good quality luggage, and the same is the case with this product as well. It is made of good quality material, and it has a polyester lining that makes it look attractive. You can choose from multiple color options, and all of them are quite attractive. However, there is a price difference in different color variants, and it may be a factor if you have a fixed budget.
It is a durable product, and you are also getting a ten-year limited warranty on it. There is a push-button on the handle that stores it neatly when not in use. Talking about the price of the luggage, you are getting an amazing deal here.
It is available in the mid-range price segment, and you won’t need to spend a lot of money. So, if you are looking for good quality luggage at an affordable price, this is a good option to go with.
Pros
- Affordable
- Good quality
- Good design
Cons
- There is a price difference in color variants
#5. HAUPTSTADTKOFFER Luggage set
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If you are a little short on money, this three-piece set is a good option to go with. It is available at an affordable price, and you won’t have to compromise on the quality as well. You will also get to choose from multiple color options, and this will allow you to buy according to your choice. The material used in its construction is of good quality, which gives it a smooth and strong finish.
This makes the luggage durable and improves its strength as well. But, the design of the luggage is pretty simple. However, it doesn’t look bad at all, and the colors that it’s available in make it look good.
The capacity of the luggage is also good, and you are getting three different sizes in this pack. There is also a lock on it that makes it a safer option. So, if you have a tight budget, this luggage is a good option to go with.
Pros
- TSA combination lock
- Good quality material
- Durable
- Affordable
Cons
- Simple design
#6. Rockland Luggage
This is three-set luggage that is available in the mid-range segment. It is made of lightweight material, but this doesn’t affect its durability. It is quite durable, and this is something that makes it more appealing. There are multi-directional wheels on it that bring in a lot of flexibility. The only downside here is that you do not have any color variants to choose from.
However, it is available in good color, and the luggage looks pretty attractive. There is also an interior mesh zip pocket in it for more flexibility during a trip. The handle of the luggage is also pretty comfortable. Considering the price of the luggage, you are getting an amazing deal with such appealing features.
Pros
- Good quality
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Multi-directional wheels
Cons
- No color options
Well, these are the best luggage in both categories, and all these products are worth the investment. However, when it comes to choosing in abs vs. polycarbonate, you should keep the above-mentioned factors in mind. Also, you should keep your requirements in mind while buying luggage to make sure that you are investing in the right product.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which is better in abs vs. polycarbonate?
Well, when it comes to choosing the better option in abs vs. polycarbonate, there are several factors involved. If we consider strength and durability, polycarbonate material does a better job. On the other hand, if we keep weight and price in mind, abs material is better. So, it is hard to decide which is better in abs vs. polycarbonate. However, if you are clear about your requirements, it will be much easier to settle for one.
2. Can abs be injection molded?
Yes, it is very easy to do abs injection molding, and this is because of its thermoplastic properties.
3. Does hard luggage crack?
Hard luggage can get cracked more easily, but this is not the case with polycarbonate luggage. They don’t break that easy, and this is the reason for their durability as well.
Conclusion
Well, if you have read this article carefully, you might be able to choose the right luggage according to your needs. Since it is hard to choose the better one in abs vs. polycarbonate in general, it becomes important to think about your requirements before settling for one. If you are sure about which type to go with, you can have a look at the products that we put on the list. All of them are worth the investment and are of good quality.
If you need anything else, we have many other “best of” product articles on helpful Reviewer. Do not hesitate to come back to read our comparisons and reviews.
References:
https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007%2F978-3-319-41600-7_11
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/engineering/acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene
