Quick update: Timbuk2 revised the capacities for these backpacks recently and our video reflects the new claimed sizes. They bumped down the Authority from 28L to 20L, which we believe is more accurate considering the actual size of the main compartment. The Division went from 22L to 18L. Just giving you a heads up in case you see conflicting information! The Timbuk2 Authority was always way too small to be a 28 liter backpack so we are glad Timbuk2 finally addressed it.
This is a great comparison, thank you! I wanted to note that the Authority is pretty tall, even though it's shallow. In the video, where you run out of room for the fleece in the main compartment and have to stick it in the front -- I bet you could have put it on top of the notebooks. I ordered one to test the sizing and can get a hefty textbook and lunch box in towards the bottom and still have room at the top for my tech pouch and coffee thermos.
Great video. Can you confirm the Authority has a bigger 17" laptop compartment? (Did you try a 17" laptop?) Their product page states it takes 15" - 17" laptops in the description, but then in the specifications it says the laptop sleeve is for 15" laptops
It's interesting because Timbuk2 currently lets you create custom colors for the Division pack and a few other backpacks but not for the Authority despite it being more popular.
The Deluxe version replaced the original Authority design, and as of right now is the only version Timbuk2 offers. This comparison is of the Deluxe versions of both backpacks.
I'm about to buy one and might be facing the same issue (although my laptop is only 16" and about 1" thick). Whats the dimensions of your laptop if you dont mind me asking?
I have the Division and it fits my 16” MacBook Pro with no problem whatsoever. I can also fit an additional 14” laptop inside the tablet sleeve. Fantastic bag. I only wish the front pocket would be a little deeper. It’s so slim that it can be hard to reach into it when the bag is packed full.
Quick update: Timbuk2 revised the capacities for these backpacks recently and our video reflects the new claimed sizes. They bumped down the Authority from 28L to 20L, which we believe is more accurate considering the actual size of the main compartment. The Division went from 22L to 18L. Just giving you a heads up in case you see conflicting information! The Timbuk2 Authority was always way too small to be a 28 liter backpack so we are glad Timbuk2 finally addressed it.
This is probably the best comparison of two similar backpacks in a brands product line I've ever seen. Super helpful.
Thank you!
This was the best backpack review I've seen and I watch a LOT. Thank you so much!
Wow, thanks!
Omg, this is the EXACT video I wanted. Thank you so much!
Glad it was helpful!
This was incredibly helpful. You made me change my mind about which backpack to choose. Thanks so much
Glad to hear the comparison was helpful. Thanks for taking the time to watch!
Very clear and concise narration! Thank you! Ps: authority now, division back in my youth.
wow you post the timing i was really looking at the same both bags.
Thanks for taking the time to watch!
This is a great comparison, thank you! I wanted to note that the Authority is pretty tall, even though it's shallow. In the video, where you run out of room for the fleece in the main compartment and have to stick it in the front -- I bet you could have put it on top of the notebooks. I ordered one to test the sizing and can get a hefty textbook and lunch box in towards the bottom and still have room at the top for my tech pouch and coffee thermos.
That's a great point, the Authority is taller! Thanks for the helpful insight
Loved the thorough explanation
This was insanely helpful. Thank you!
Great to hear!
@@Backpackies Ended up ordering the Division. I do like more organization, but I can live with it because I want the larger main compartment.
Does timbuk2 authority has a suspended laptop compartment?
super helpful! Thank you!
The video I was looking for
Great video. Can you confirm the Authority has a bigger 17" laptop compartment? (Did you try a 17" laptop?) Their product page states it takes 15" - 17" laptops in the description, but then in the specifications it says the laptop sleeve is for 15" laptops
Unfortunately we don't have a 17" laptop to test with but the inside of the laptop compartment measures 17.75 x 11 inches.
@@Backpackies That's helps, thank you :)
Would love the Authority in other colors. Really tired of black or dark blue bags.
It's interesting because Timbuk2 currently lets you create custom colors for the Division pack and a few other backpacks but not for the Authority despite it being more popular.
Are the Authority and Authority Deluxe different bags? If different, know the main differences? Can only seem to find Deluxe version.
The Deluxe version replaced the original Authority design, and as of right now is the only version Timbuk2 offers. This comparison is of the Deluxe versions of both backpacks.
Thank you
I wish the authority had one bucket pocket like the division. My thiccboy laptop doesn't fit in the division. Might have to go with north face 🫤
Yeah these are definitely smaller bags. The North Face has great options if you want a large main compartment.
I'm about to buy one and might be facing the same issue (although my laptop is only 16" and about 1" thick). Whats the dimensions of your laptop if you dont mind me asking?
I have the Division and it fits my 16” MacBook Pro with no problem whatsoever. I can also fit an additional 14” laptop inside the tablet sleeve. Fantastic bag. I only wish the front pocket would be a little deeper. It’s so slim that it can be hard to reach into it when the bag is packed full.
Would it fits a 16" macbookpro with a softcase ?@@petber0909