Think Tank Shape Shifter 17 v2 and Perception Pro backpacks review

Shape Shifter and Perception Pro comparison

The Shape Shifter and Perception Pro illustrate how a single idea can be applied in two different ways. While they can appear similar at a casual glance, upon further inspection they have some very important differences.

The size is the first obvious difference. The Shape Shifter is large, close to the upper limit of what is typically allowed as a carry-on when fully deployed. It has an estimated volume of 28 liters. Compressing the bag reduces the overall size but the Shape Shifter is still tall and wide. The Perception Pro, on the other hand, has an internal volume of about 24 liters (estimated), which amounts to a small daypack. The volume difference is not that dramatic, however the Shape Shifter is wider and its external pockets stick out from the main body instead of being almost hidden like on the Perception Pro, which makes the differences more visible.

The choice of materials is also an important dissimilarity. While the Perception Pro is rugged and sturdy enough, the Shape Shifter is in another category. It is made to be abused and will take almost anything thrown at it. This ruggedness comes with a weight penalty: while the Perception Pro is a very low 2.9 pounds (a low value for a photography backpack, especially for that size), the Shape Shifter weights a hefty 4.6 pounds.

The modularity of the Shape Shifter is impressive. There is a high level of redundancy (tablet sleeves for instance) and many elements can be moved, removed or replaced with accessories. On the Perception Pro, the hip straps can be removed, and that’s it.

The Shape Shifter uses large neoprene pouches. These have the advantage of holding larger items and offering better protection. The Perception Pro uses smaller pouches made of padded cloth, which can use standard Velcro dividers for even more flexibility. The ideal configuration would probably a mix of the two.

The size difference is simply a design choice; the Perception Pro could have been made larger if desired. The material, on the other hand, is linked to the intended use. The Shape Shifter is built like a tank and the pouches are designed accordingly. The Perception Pro is better for smaller camera systems and its dividers allow the user to carry several small primes without having them bounce around.

The Perception Pro tries to bridge the gap between the Shape Shifter and hiking bags, making the former’s storage system available more casual users. The Perception Pro is not the best choice available on a trail but it certainly is better suited than the Shape Shifter.

In short, the Shape Shifter’s strong elements are its superb modularity, ruggedness and ability to carry large photo items. The Perception Pro’s perks are its smaller size, all-in-one solution and its ability to configure the inside of the pouches. Looks are a matter of taste but we give the advantage to the Perception Pro.

The final choice between the two bags is, of course, a matter of taste and intended use. They both are quality products with distinct use cases and distinct perks.