ID vs Ego

[mrae]

Can someone who has both describe the main differences, besides size, and the pros and cons of each?

[lpotr4]

The ID has only one water bottle holder. The ID has two Ultrasuede lined pockets which are good for holding those scratch proof items such as iPods, sunglasses, etc. All of the compartments are accessible under one huge (main) flap covering the main compartment and other subdividing open/zippered pockets, the flap itself holds another zippered pocket. Design-wise, I think the ID is more subtle than the Ego, so if you are looking for a messenger style bag that won't look too "sporty" ( a word used for lack of better terms that come to mind at the moment). The size and capacity is about the same as the Ego.

The Ego is a scaled down version of the Super Ego, so if you are familiar with the Super Ego, just shrink it down to about the ID's size and there you have it. The Ego has two water bottle holders (one on each side), a separate zippered compartment accessible by itself without having to lift the flap to get to it (like the ID) -- an option that is very handy when quick accessing a laptop especially. Underneath the flap, it hides more open and zippered pockets (more than the ID I believe) subdivided for organization. The Ego does not have ultrasuede-lined pockets like the ID does, but it does have more o-rings thru out the bag that allows you to clip more organizer pouches. The Ego is a bit more cavernous compared to the ID both in thickness and height which is great for holding more stuff (volume) compared to the ID. The Ego is a more customizable in terms of the optional fabric strips and buckle options that adorn the front flap, and the Ego has more colorful options compared to the ID's predominantly black/steel exterior.

Both ID and Ego could be categorized under "mid-sized messenger bag", since both are capable of holding 15" and smaller laptops (for those 17" monsters, the Super Ego, Empire Builder and the Brain Bag are your better options). Both bags come with waist straps and "standard" shoulder straps but would also accommodate the Absolute and Q-AM straps (get the Q-AM for the Ego, it feels great especially when cinched tight). I'll try to update if I remember any more details, hope this helps.

[Darcy]

Excellent list of differences, Luis.

[mrae]

Thanks for the explanation. It sounds like the ego has more storage pockets. I'm a fan of pockets so that may be the best for me.