JanSport Big Student vs North face microbyte

The only downside is that it doesn't have a cushion thingy for laptops. I can survive without it though.

However, It's quite heavy-- and that has to do with the back compartment that supports your laptop when fully opened. As a comparison my 28L mountain co-op bag is significantly lighter. It also, as others have said, hits my bum which isn't terrible, but it doesn't sit on the middle of my back, like it should and because of this, I find that the weight distribution is off .

especially the sturdy handle and comfortable back support, but it’s too small. Any recommendations for something that combines the 2 backpacks? I work in the tech industry and am also a graduate student, so I carry a mix of technology and books with me on a daily basis.

This was a beautiful bag but it will not hold much more than a laptop, wallet, keys and maybe one thin notebook. I have a long commute and was looking for something larger so I ended up returning this item and buying the surge transit that will have more space for me to pack lunch or an extra pair of shoes. If you want something small and light go micro but if you need more space I'd recommend the surge

You carry your gym, clothes, jackets books, anything else and the medium compartment here slightly smaller than the first one right for notebooks for ...

I commend North Face for designing backpacks for adults. I was exasperated by all the cartoon characters and other juvenile themes and colors I found at other vendors online but did not want a super-heavy hiking pack or a luxurious (and HEAVY) leather bag. I bought this for travel - for my tablet and essentials. Might be too small for serous baggage if that is the goal

And then we've got these straight cut padded backpack straps here with a bit of a journal logo on there as well on the top. We've just got this grab h...

Got Comfortable shoulder straps back here, lined with mesh Keep Your shoulders feeling great Also have that handle on top, so you can pick it up and g...

The padded straps were very cushiony upon purchase but with time and heavy textbooks, they did eventually rip. If you know how to sew, it can be fixed though.

The shoulder straps have substantial amount of padding which I love and the solid construction of the sternum strap (and the presence of one on a backpack of this size) makes this bag a grand slam.