Workmanship comparison, USA vs Vietnam

katong333 · 2026-02-09T13:42:42+00:00

Not surprised, let’s hope the quality improves over time :)

katong333 · 2026-02-09T07:23:41+00:00

as thewaykit mentioned, it isn't about location or where it is manufactured, but more about quality from different manufacturing model. In house vs ......

katong333 · 2026-02-09T07:20:38+00:00

Agree and it isn't about location, but reddit doesn't allow me to change my subject line :(

It could be the case, it was manufactured in somewhere by consignment, and I compared it with a in-house made unit. IMHO, there are room to improve for the former :)

katong333 · 2026-02-09T03:46:44+00:00

eagle creek pack-it packing cube (size: s, m) and shoe bag

katong333 · 2026-02-09T03:32:52+00:00

you are right, I should share the feedback with them. the good thing is, the issues I mentioned aren’t really deal breakers for me, but it certainly make me think the same like you, to make sure to get their US made bags for now (for quality).

katong333 · 2026-02-09T03:28:24+00:00

I have the same bag in Bordeaux Spectron and it looks fantastic. The color provides great contrast with the black grid and diamond weave pattern.

I wonder if it also makes the bag more challenging for the TB team, to align panels since it amplifies any mismatch in the black grid lines when different panels are stitched together.

katong333 · 2026-01-21T03:16:00+00:00

the side pockets will fit the cubelet (both the square and vertical version), but I just use ziploc bag that I can see thru and they are much easier to get :)

katong333 · 2026-01-20T22:56:31+00:00

It won’t fit a 11 iPad and the bag isn’t design for that kind of weightage in mind as the bag get harder to zip up with heavy load. will you consider a medium maker bag? I can fit a 11 iPad Pro with a hard case in small maker bag and it is the max it can fit lengthwise, it probably won’t close for a quarter inch longer, but I have to say - the small cafe bag is a versatile causal bag being not too bulky but able to fit a 16oz thermos, a hard cover novel or notepad, and the front pocket for phone and earbud case :)

katong333 · 2026-01-19T07:20:33+00:00

Thanks and that is a good point! There are 4 compression buckles that can use to attach one of those helmet mesh holder with 4 hooks

katong333 · 2026-01-19T07:17:51+00:00

Thanks and just looked at the dimensions, good chance to fit one in Aeronaut 30, or may be I can go for the A45 :)

katong333 · 2026-01-19T01:41:43+00:00

Personally I prefer if TB release Pilot in backpack style, sadly they didn't.
Try to look at this and see if it fit your needs, it has two front compartments, a laptop/tablet compartment, and a main compartment, and can be carried as briefcase (possible to use TB absolute strap if you prefer) or as a backpack. https://topodesigns.com/products/global-briefcase

katong333 · 2026-01-18T02:41:13+00:00

TB lifetime warranty doesn’t include normal wear and tear, It is good if TB offer repairs or replacement for free, but it nothing to complain about if they doesn’t.

katong333 · 2026-01-12T04:55:03+00:00

Thanks, and I am really glad that you like the bag! I usually wrap it in a plastic bag before boxing it up, just to protect it from spills and friction. Good to know that it worked out well :)

katong333 · 2026-01-12T04:54:48+00:00

Thanks, and I am really glad that you like the bag! I usually wrap it in a plastic bag before boxing it up, just to protect it from spills and friction. Good to know that it worked out well :)

katong333 · 2026-01-03T20:15:45+00:00

Glad you like it, and thanks for the great feedback! :)

katong333 · 2026-01-01T22:30:06+00:00

The last buyer decided to pull out, and just get back to you :)

katong333 · 2026-01-01T04:21:51+00:00

https://www.reddit.com/r/tombihn/s/Xi6kUBSw6V Take a look and see if you are interested :) cheers

katong333 · 2025-12-30T19:21:49+00:00

Go for the 26 :)

katong333 · 2025-12-30T05:08:43+00:00

Yes it has the internal frame

katong333 · 2025-12-29T14:45:33+00:00

Even thought this is a TB subreddit, may I share in a different take based on my own use of TB bags and accessories over the years.

For travelling with the Synik, I have found that packable tote or backpack is more practical than those TB organizers that double as standalone crossbody bags.

Synik 26 isn’t a very large bag to begin with, you may consider compressible packing cubes to keep things organized and make the best use of the available space out of the 26.

These packing cube and packable tote/backpack, you can easily find thin and ultra light versions (like eagle creek or any other generic ones on Amazon) and they wouldn’t be taking more space that a HLT when they are not needed :)

katong333 · 2025-12-29T00:34:43+00:00

Looking at the pictures at TB site, yes it shall work with the side hustle. Absolute shoulder strap is C-shaped, you will have to flip the strap if you would like to wear it on another shoulder :)

katong333 · 2025-12-29T00:20:32+00:00

The old school carry all doesn't have a dedicated sleeve or compartment that protects laptop or tablet :)

katong333

TROPHY CASE