Choosing the right camera backpack can make all the difference for photographers on the go. When it comes to Lowepro’s popular Flipside series, the 400 and 500 models often come up in conversation. Both offer innovative access and reliable protection, but subtle differences cater to varying gear needs.
Are you a minimalist shooter or do you carry a substantial amount of equipment? The decision between the Lowepro Flipside 400 AW II and the larger Flipside 500 AW II hinges on your specific photography style and the gear you haul. Let’s dive into a detailed comparison to help you make the best choice.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Lowepro Flipside 400 AW II | Lowepro Flipside 500 AW II |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 1-2 Pro DSLRs, 4-6 lenses, flash | 1-2 Pro DSLRs, 6-8 lenses, flash |
| Laptop/Tablet Sleeve | Fits 13″ laptop | Fits 15″ laptop |
| Exterior Dimensions (W x D x H) | 30.5 x 24.5 x 44 cm | 32 x 27 x 49 cm |
| Interior Dimensions (W x D x H) | 27 x 17 x 40 cm | 29 x 19 x 44 cm |
| Camera Compartment Dimensions (W x D x H) | 27 x 17 x 27 cm | 29 x 19 x 32 cm |
| Weight | 1.7 kg | 2.0 kg |
| Material | Durable 600D polyester | Durable 600D polyester |
| Weather Protection | All Weather AW Cover™ | All Weather AW Cover™ |
| Access | Back-entry design | Back-entry design |
| Strap System | Padded, adjustable shoulder straps; sternum strap; padded waist belt | Padded, adjustable shoulder straps; sternum strap; padded waist belt |
| Tripod Attachment | Yes, side straps | Yes, side straps |
| Water Bottle Pockets | Yes, dual | Yes, dual |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Capacity & Size
- Lowepro Flipside 400: This backpack offers a substantial capacity, typically accommodating a pro DSLR with a grip, 4-6 lenses, and accessories. Its dimensions are generally more compact than the 500, making it suitable for travel or situations where space is a concern. However, fitting larger telephoto lenses might be a tight squeeze.
- 500: The Flipside 500 boasts a larger internal volume, designed to hold a pro DSLR with a grip, 7-8 lenses, and additional gear like a flash unit and laptop. Its increased size allows for more specialized equipment or simply more general photography essentials. The downside is its bulkier profile, which can be less convenient for everyday carry or navigating crowded spaces.
- Winner: 500
Access System
- Lowepro Flipside 400: The hallmark of the Flipside series is its unique back-entry access system. This keeps the camera gear secure and protected from the elements and potential theft when worn. Unzipping the back panel allows full access to the main compartment, which is a significant security advantage.
- 500: The Flipside 500 also features the same secure back-entry access system, providing the same benefits of security and protection. This design choice is consistent across the Flipside line and is a primary reason for its popularity among photographers concerned about gear safety.
- Winner: Tie
Comfort & Ergonomics
- Lowepro Flipside 400: Designed with comfort in mind, the 400 features padded shoulder straps and a ventilated back panel to reduce sweat and strain during extended wear. The weight distribution is generally good for its size. It offers a comfortable carry for a moderate amount of gear.
- 500: While the 500 is larger, Lowepro has engineered it for carrying heavier loads comfortably. It typically includes more robust padding on the shoulder straps and a well-designed harness system to distribute weight effectively. The larger size can still lead to more fatigue on longer treks compared to the 400 if not packed strategically.
- Winner: 500
Organization & Customization
- Lowepro Flipside 400: The interior is divided by adjustable padded dividers, allowing for customizable configurations to fit various camera bodies, lenses, and accessories. The layout is generally intuitive, with pockets for smaller items. It offers good flexibility for its capacity.
- 500: The 500 provides even more extensive customization options due to its larger size. The internal dividers are plentiful and highly adjustable, enabling photographers to meticulously arrange their gear for optimal protection and quick access. This makes it ideal for photographers with a diverse and extensive equipment collection.
- Winner: 500
Durability & Weather Resistance
- Lowepro Flipside 400: Constructed with durable materials and often featuring a water-resistant exterior, the 400 offers good protection against the elements. It’s built to withstand the rigors of outdoor photography. A rain cover is usually included for added protection in heavy downpours.
- 500: Similar to the 400, the 500 is built with robust, weather-resistant materials. Its construction emphasizes longevity and protection for valuable camera equipment. The larger size might make it slightly more susceptible to picking up dirt and scuffs if not carefully managed in harsh environments.
- Winner: Tie
Laptop/Tablet Compartment
- Lowepro Flipside 400: Some versions of the Flipside 400 include a dedicated padded compartment for a laptop or tablet, typically accommodating sizes up to 13-15 inches. This adds to its versatility for photographers who also work with digital editing on the go. The size of the compartment can vary by specific model iteration.
- 500: The Flipside 500 almost universally includes a larger dedicated laptop compartment, often capable of holding devices up to 15-17 inches. This is a significant advantage for photographers who need to carry and protect a larger laptop along with their camera gear.
- Winner: 500
External Attachment Points
- Lowepro Flipside 400: Features external straps and loops for attaching accessories like a tripod, water bottle, or jacket. These are strategically placed to not impede the main access system. The number of attachment points is generally sufficient for basic needs.
- 500: The 500 often provides more extensive external attachment options due to its larger frame. This allows for carrying bulkier items like larger tripods or more accessories, making it a more capable pack for extended shoots or travel where carrying capacity is paramount.
- Winner: 500
Weight & Portability
- Lowepro Flipside 400: Being the smaller of the two, the Flipside 400 is lighter when empty and generally easier to maneuver in tight spaces. Its portability is a key selling point for photographers who prioritize a less cumbersome carry. It strikes a good balance between capacity and manageable weight.
- 500: The Flipside 500, due to its larger size and capacity, will naturally be heavier, especially when fully loaded. While designed for comfort, its overall bulk can make it less portable in very confined environments or for photographers who prefer a minimalist setup.
- Winner: 400
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Capacity | Lowepro Flipside 500 AW II |
| Laptop/Tablet Fit | Lowepro Flipside 500 AW II |
| Portability/Weight | Lowepro Flipside 400 AW II |
| Overall Versatility | Lowepro Flipside 500 AW II |
| Security | Tie |
| Durability | Tie |
What They Have in Common
- Back-Entry System: Both bags feature a unique back-entry design that provides enhanced security by keeping your gear hidden from view while you’re wearing the pack. This also ensures that the straps are clean and free of dirt when you set the bag down.
- All Weather Aw Cover™: Both the Flipside 400 AW II and 500 AW II come equipped with Lowepro’s signature All Weather AW Cover, offering robust protection against rain, dust, and sand, ensuring your valuable camera equipment stays safe in various environmental conditions.
- Comfortable Carrying System: They both utilize a comfortable and well-padded harness system, including adjustable shoulder straps, a sternum strap, and a padded waist belt. This design distributes weight effectively, making them comfortable to carry for extended periods.
- Durable Construction: Both backpacks are constructed from high-quality, durable 600D polyester fabric, known for its resilience and resistance to abrasion. This ensures longevity and protection for your gear.
- Tripod and Water Bottle Storage: Each bag offers convenient external storage for a tripod via side straps and dual water bottle pockets, allowing you to stay hydrated and keep your essential gear accessible on the go.
- Modular Interior: Both models feature a customizable interior with adjustable dividers, allowing you to configure the space to perfectly fit your specific camera bodies, lenses, and accessories.
Lowepro Flipside 400 Vs 500 Buying Guide
Capacity and Gear Loadout
The primary differentiator between the Flipside 400 and 500 lies in their internal capacity. The Flipside 400 is designed for a moderate amount of gear, typically accommodating a DSLR or mirrorless camera body with a few attached lenses and accessories. It’s a great choice for photographers who prioritize portability and travel light.
The Flipside 500, on the other hand, offers significantly more space. It can comfortably fit a larger professional camera body with a battery grip, a longer telephoto lens, and a wider array of additional lenses, flashes, and accessories. If you often carry multiple camera bodies or larger lenses, the 500 will be a better fit.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Both bags share Lowepro’s signature Flipside design, which offers a secure back-entry system for accessing gear. This design enhances security by keeping your equipment safe from casual theft when worn. The padded shoulder straps and adjustable sternum strap on both models contribute to comfortable weight distribution during extended wear. (See Also: Apple Iphone 14 Vs 15 )
However, the Flipside 500, due to its larger size and potentially heavier loadout, might feel a bit more substantial on your back. While both are designed for comfort, the 400 might offer a slightly more streamlined and less bulky feel for those who are very sensitive to pack size.
Weather Protection and Durability
Lowepro is known for its robust build quality, and both the Flipside 400 and 500 are constructed with durable, weather-resistant materials. They feature padded interiors to protect your valuable equipment from bumps and knocks. The integrated All Weather AW Cover provides an additional layer of defense against rain, dust, and snow.
The core materials and construction methods are largely consistent across both models, ensuring good protection for your gear. The primary difference in perceived durability might come down to how much weight you load into the larger 500, which could put more stress on the seams and straps over time.
Intended Use and Travel Style
The Flipside 400 is an excellent companion for day trips, shorter excursions, or when you need a compact camera bag for urban exploration. Its smaller footprint makes it easier to navigate crowded spaces and store in overhead compartments on flights. It’s ideal for photographers who want quick access to their essential gear without being weighed down. (See Also: Texas Vs Wyoming Llc )
The Flipside 500 is better suited for longer photography expeditions, travel where you need a comprehensive kit, or for professionals who carry a significant amount of equipment. Its larger capacity allows for more versatility in your shooting scenarios, ensuring you have the right tool for almost any photographic opportunity.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Lowepro Flipside 400 AW II If…
- You primarily shoot with one professional DSLR body and a few lenses.
- You need to carry a laptop up to 13 inches.
- You prioritize a more compact and lighter-weight backpack for easier maneuverability.
- Your photography often involves travel or day trips where space is a consideration.
Buy Lowepro Flipside 500 AW II If…
- You carry a larger camera setup with multiple lenses and accessories, or a grip-equipped body.
- You need to accommodate a laptop up to 15 inches.
- You prefer having extra room for additional gear, such as a small drone or more extensive lighting equipment.
- You often shoot in situations where having more lenses readily accessible is crucial.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference in capacity between the Flipside 400 and 500?
The most significant difference is their internal volume. The Flipside 400 is designed for a moderate amount of gear, typically a camera body with a few lenses. The Flipside 500 offers substantially more space, capable of housing professional camera bodies, larger lenses like telephotos, and a wider array of accessories, making it suitable for photographers with extensive gear needs.
Are both bags suitable for professional photographers?
Yes, both bags can be suitable for professional photographers, depending on their specific needs and kit. The Flipside 400 is ideal for professionals who prioritize a lighter loadout for events or specific shoots. The Flipside 500 is better suited for pros who regularly carry more extensive and heavier professional camera equipment, such as multiple bodies and large lenses.
How does the back-entry system benefit security?
The signature Flipside back-entry system is a major security feature. By accessing your gear from the back panel when the bag is off your shoulders, it significantly reduces the risk of opportunistic theft. This design ensures that your camera and lenses are protected from being accessed by others while you are wearing the backpack in public spaces. (See Also: Swagbucks Vs Survey Junkie )
Which bag is better for air travel?
Both bags are generally suitable for air travel, especially as carry-on luggage. However, the Flipside 400’s smaller size makes it more universally compliant with airline carry-on restrictions and easier to stow in overhead bins. The Flipside 500, when fully packed, might be closer to or exceed certain airline size limits, requiring more careful consideration.
What kind of comfort features do these bags offer?
Both the Flipside 400 and 500 feature padded shoulder straps, an adjustable sternum strap, and a padded back panel for enhanced comfort during wear. The weight distribution is designed to be ergonomic. The larger Flipside 500 may feel more substantial when loaded, but both are built for comfortable carrying of their respective gear capacities.
Final Verdict
The Lowepro Flipside 400 and 500 are both excellent camera backpacks, distinguished primarily by their capacity. The 400 excels in portability for lighter loads, while the 500 offers ample space for extensive gear. Both provide superior security with their back-entry design and robust build quality. Your choice hinges on the amount of equipment you typically carry and your travel style.
Winner: Lowepro Flipside 500