Update 01/07/2018: The backpack has started to fall apart, pictures can be found here. I will update this review after I receive a response from Razer. For now, score on “Build Quality” dropped down to 40 and “Value” to 50.
Update 13/07/2018: After being ignored by Razer’s customer support for a fairly long time, I’ll have to add ‘Razer’s Customer Support’ as a criteria for reviewing – and adjust scores accordingly and add the backpack to ‘The Worst’ page – I’ll not update the rest of the review because I can’t be bothered with this backpack anymore, I’ll have to find another one for my laptop and travels now before this one is completely unusable.
For Gamers, By Gamers? Well, not only for gamers I’ll say!
As I bought myself some precious gear I wanted to take good care of when out and about, I wanted to invest in a proper backpack that would hopefully fill all my needs and wants in doing so. And this backpack actually does just – that and a bit more!
Originally when I started to look for a backpack that was made for the purpose of protecting a laptop and other bits, I was going to look into some more typical (and probably quite boring and bog-standard) options like something by Samsonite, Targus or Belkin just to mention a few. But as it happened, I stumbled upon a well placed advert by Razer’s gear sale some time ago so I decided to opt-in for something that definitely stands out from your typical backpack.
Check out the latest price and full product description on Amazon:
Razer Tactical Backpack FRML, 39 x 47 x 19 cm
Specifications:
- Made from robust 1680D ballistic nylon
- Tear- and water-resistant exterior
- Scratch proof interior
- Soft padded shoulder straps and back panel
- Adjustable chest buckle
- 2 large interior compartments
- Interior 15” laptop divider and headphone holder
- Medium-sized front utility pocket with accessories organizer
- 2 small modular front pockets
- 2 small side pockets for easy access
- Velcro modular webbing front
- Hidden underside pocket compartment with weather proof bag cover
- Designed to fit notebooks of up to 17.3” in size
Additionally Razer describes the backpack with the following claims:
- Designed to take a beating
- Diverse multipurpose compartments
- Carry with comfort
And after months of frequent usage I can completely agree with all of the three, but one big feature of the backpack that they didn’t list is…
The Looks
The aesthetics of this backpack can be definitely counted as one of its features.
The rain cover on the top of the backpack boasts the very distinguished Razer logo, and the green subtly can be seen throughout the outer details of the backpack.
The insides of the backpack are in the typical Razer green, which is actually a very functional and a good thing: If the insides of the backpack was, let’s say black, it would be harder to actually see what’s in there. But this bright green definitely works for it’s advantage in this sense, not just providing additional Razer branding and the distinctive look.
“If you’re after something discrete that doesn’t stand out, then this is definitely not the backpack for you.” – Said anyone who’s ever owned one of these
Functionality: Is a ‘Tactical Backpack’ really… Well, tactical for a normal person?
If you compare this tactical backpack to the majority of what people would describe as ‘normal backpacks’, the tactical side of things actually is very much there if you just utilise it; it’s not just the tactical looks, but the design. And no you don’t have to be a soldier to be able to appreciate special compartments: Instead of having to open up your whole backpack and shuffle through things for 5 minutes for something in particular when your things are all mixed up, you can allocate the tactical compartments for special and ‘tactical uses’ of sorts and find things with ease.
In addition to the bag having a dedicated place for your laptop (Or just notes, or something that shouldn’t bend), USB sticks, a case for headphones, and so on… The backpack also has 4 easy to reach compartments of which two are removable – if you so may. Also the the backpack can be tightened and secured by the straps making it much more compact and suitable for travelling. And the backpack will fit the majority of the airline’s carry-on sizes as well!
Official approximate measurements are as follows:
Weight: 2000grams / 4.41lbs.
Height: 47 cm / 18.518”
Width: 32 cm / 12.608”
Depth: 19 cm / 7.49”
However, if I take measures myself; with all the compartments intact and the straps aren’t tightened – the measures of the backpack are approximately:
Weight: 1.6 kg
Height: 49 cm
Width: 42 cm
Depth: 28 cm
But if the two front compartments are removed and the straps are tightened and secured:
Weight: 1.7 kg
Height: 49 cm
Width: 32 cm
Depth: 20 cm
Note: You can still cram the backpack into smaller spaces but this is without any external forces in play. i.e. You can definitely fit the backpack easily to the approximate official sizes that are given.
Also note: Weight taken with an Uni-Com Mini Digital Luggage Scale
The ‘tactical compartments’ that are removable, are Velcro-operated. And note that they are definitely not made for tiny valuables, but instead they’re great storing your snacks or other items you’d want to find and reach easily! So far I’ve personally found them very handy when travelling for the ability to have a ‘tactical shirt compartment’ or a ‘tactical fresh pair of socks compartment’ – or a tactical what may you… sometimes a lint roll for my suit and sometimes a compact umbrella!
You can definitely get the backpack for its looks, but it has some great uses and customisability a normal backpack just doesn’t offer – and that’s exactly what makes it a ‘tactical’ backpack!
Note: The previously mentioned headphone case that attaches inside the backpack nicely and provides great protection for whatever you decide to put in it. However, a pair of full sized headphones you may not! It’s more meant for foldable headphones than normal bulky ones.
Do I think you should get one?
I think the biggest question you want to ask yourself is, do you need one? (As one should ask before buying most things…) Do you have a valuable laptop and other gear that you want to look after? Do you want something that stands out and is different? Or maybe you just appreciate the novelty of having a backpack that looks like it’s military grade? Whatever the reason I can recommend this backpack, for any of the previously mentioned.
For me it’s very easy to say why I don’t regret buying one; I think it’s a great travel companion because of the way my laptop and other stuff stays nicely protected, but I have still easy-to-access tactical compartments I can utilise with ease on the go.
No doubt the price tag on this can feel quite hefty. I was originally prepared to pay around fifty pounds for a good quality backpack be it what may, but after stumbling on this tactical backpack I decided to invest twice the amount and so far haven’t regretted it. It’s lasted and served well when travelling.
HOWEVER, if you’re worried about the looks being too different and don’t want to carry anything than stands out, then this isn’t for you.
Razer Tactical Backpack FRML, 39 x 47 x 19 cm
The Good!
- Very stylish and distinctive Razer looks
- The flexibility for customisation
The Bad!
- Mesh rain cover looked used after one use when the straps tightened 'too tight'
- Sometimes I find people staring the backpack a bit too much, on public transport for example
- Ignored by customer support
- Backpack falling apart after just a year of normal non-abusive use
No.
Update 13/07/2018: Just no - don't.
