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Review on Tenba DNA 15 Backpack Graphite by Nathan Vaughn

Revainrating 5 out of 5

DNA 13 vs DNA 15

I am writing my review as a comparison between DNA 13 and DNA 15 because despite the specs on the website it was very difficult for me to imagine what would be better for me. I'll start off by saying I'm a wedding photographer who uses a large foldable shoulder bag and then a small "work" shoulder bag. So my goal was to have a crossbody bag that was small enough to carry on my shoulder at work but big enough to carry whatever I need when I don't have access to a scooter. My other requirement was that he could hold a steel water bottle in an outside pocket because August weddings are long and I don't want to die. Both bags are fantastically well built. They are just as efficient and stylish as shown in the videos and I'm really impressed at how well thought out the pockets are for their size. Pros and cons of BOTH bags. Cons: I wish the front pockets were less deep and maybe lighter on the inside, no 'black hole'. Yes, that's the only negative. Pros: Pockets *everywhere*. I didn't see it in the description, but the same zippered back pocket is not just a big bag, it's a big bag with smaller pockets on the back. Ideal for storing charts, pens, chewing gum and more that you may need quick and easy access to. There are also small pockets on the outside of the liner. The DNA 15 has more at the insert and this insert is also a bit wider and deeper (as you would expect). The top-access zipped compartment is as accessible and useful as it sounds. I also like that it adds some depth to the bag. The strap is dreamy - it's made from a soft Domke strap, I thought nothing would compare but I was wrong. This strap is just fantastic. Top Handle = Great Trolley Strap = Thanks! Now for the differences. My main concern was to store a LOT but in a low profile pocket so I wouldn't bump into people. I tested both bags with the included earplugs, as well as the Timbuk2 Snoop. I used the medium on DNA 15 and the small on DNA 13 and they both fit perfectly in their respective pockets. However, the liners that come with the bags seem more thought out and I will most likely use Tenba's liner. Comparing the two, I was able to get the same number of items in each bag - only 15 was cheaper. However, it is much bulkier, especially at the bottom of the bag. I like a bag that's a little closer to me and has a slimmer profile, and I felt the 13 did just that. During testing I was able to fit the following items in both bags: D750 with 50mm lens attached, 35mm Prime lens, 85mm Prime lens, 70-200 with D-Pad attached and SB-900- Lightning. In the 15 there was room for more and everything was more accessible. From 13 everything came up, but I had to add something. However, I could probably fit more in a 13. I have a laptop case so don't expect to use the laptop function but just so you know. my 13" MBP with case fits perfectly in both bags. In the 13th he felt more comfortable, and in the 15th he had a more comfortable respite. , except for the beginning and end of the day or moving from one place to another. So I found the smaller profile 13 to be the best as the base of the 15 was too wide.If you're sitting here trying to decide which bag is the best and you want to fit a solid amount of gear with a smaller profile, suggest I before 13. If you don't mind a little more bulk, a few more pockets and a deeper bag, 15 is for you.In any case, you'll love it.This is a well-made, stylish but not flashy bag, which is perfect for wedding work.

Pros
  • Absolute Legend
Cons
  • High Price