Lowepro ProTactic Camera Backpack: 350 vs 450

See Also: Best Camera Backpacks

The ProTactic 350 Camera Backpack is well suited to those who are looking for their first camera carrying bag, with plenty of space to store the essentials, as well as a space for a notebook or small laptop in case photo editing is a requirement. This bag is best suited to those who are primarily focused upon the pure photography aspect of the job or hobby, but who do not have the requirement to carry reams of paperwork or other such items.

If a single DSLR with several lenses is sufficient to do the job, then there’s no need to heave around the additional space provided by a Lowepro ProTactic 450 AW bag; the Lowepro ProTactic 350 AW will provide everything the photographer needs. Considering that the backpack also conforms to carry-on luggage restrictions on airlines, these features make it the ideal backpack for transporting camera equipment abroad.

If we had to name one limitation to the 350 AW backpack it is that laptops with a screen size greater than 13” are very common amongst those who use them for video and photo editing, though the Lowepro Protactic 350 AW will only support a notebook or laptop with a screen this size or smaller.

The ProTactic 450 AW Camera Backpack is a little larger than the 350 AW model, which is reflected across the rest of the product. Whereas the 350 AW baselines itself as being capable of carrying 1-2 Pro DSLR cameras, with one having a 24-70mm f/2.8 lens attached, the 450 AW makes additional room, supporting the same setup, but with a 70-200mm f/2.8 lens attached. What's more, it makes space for a quadcopter drone and handheld tripod module, as an example of the extra space inside.

For many photographers, their trusty DSLR cameras will be sufficient. However, for others who like to shoot weddings or natural scenes, or who provide professional services such as construction surveying for example, specialist equipment such as aerial drones or handheld tripods may be required. Though these won’t fit alongside a DSLR camera within the 350 AW backpack, the Lowepro Protactic 450 AW model easily accommodates their inclusion.

What’s more, user experience dictates that quick access to a stored DSLR camera is easier from the larger model, the 450 AW, meaning that photographers are less likely to miss a shot when time is sensitive.

The Lowepro ProTactic 350 AW and Lowepro ProTactic 450 AW are different models that are suited to different purposes, as opposed to being older or newer versions of one another as numbering conventions often suggest. Owing simply to increased dimensions and carrying capacity, the 450 AW is the heavier and more spacious of the two camera backpacks.

The bottom line is that the 350 AW backpack is well suited to beginners who are looking for the ability to easily carry their equipment with protection from breakage or the elements. Conversely, the 450 AW is perhaps more suited to those who require a larger range of equipment, or space for a bigger laptop and documentation. You can also checkout my review of the Lowepro 250 AW camera backpack here.