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If you are considering the Briggs & Riley ZDX Global Softside Carry-On, you might want to look at other briggs riley zdx global softside carry on alternatives that offer different specifications. This bag provides a 21-inch softside design with spinner wheels and weighs 7.94 pounds. It fits travelers who need expandable overhead space and smooth maneuverability. The dimensions of 21 by 15 by 9.02 inches make it a standard carry-on option for most airlines.
However, you might prefer a lighter bag, a hardside shell, or a different size for your specific needs. The alternatives listed here were chosen because their specs overlap with the original product in key areas like wheel type, shell material, or overall capacity. You can compare weights, dimensions, and features to find a better fit for your travel style. Whether you need a compact underseat bag or a larger checked spinner, these options provide practical solutions based on published data.
How these options compare to ZDX
Delsey DLC Pro 16-Inch Underseat
The Delsey Paris DLC Pro 16-Inch Underseat is significantly smaller and lighter than the Briggs & Riley ZDX Global. It measures 16 inches in height and weighs just 5.7 pounds, compared to the ZDX’s 21-inch height and 7.94-pound weight. The Delsey offers a more compact footprint with dimensions of 16 x 8.75 x 14.5 inches, making it ideal for underseat storage. You give up the expandable overhead bin capacity of the ZDX for this tighter fit. This bag suits business travelers who need a lightweight, organized carry-on that fits beneath the seat in front of you rather than in the overhead compartment.
Osprey Ozone Hardside 30-Inch Spinner
The Osprey Ozone Hardside 30-Inch Spinner is a large checked bag, not a carry-on like the Briggs & Riley ZDX Global. It stands 29.5 inches tall and measures 13.8 inches in length, offering much larger capacity for extended trips. The ZDX is a 21-inch softside bag, while the Osprey features a rigid hardside shell for impact protection. You trade the convenience of cabin storage for the ability to pack significantly more gear. This option fits travelers who prioritize durability and high capacity over the compact, wheeled mobility of a carry-on size. It is designed for checked luggage rather than overhead bin compliance.
SwissGear Sion Large Softside Spinner
The SwissGear Sion Large Softside Spinner is a checked-size bag with expandable features, unlike the carry-on dimensions of the Briggs & Riley ZDX Global. It measures 29 inches in height and 18 inches in length, providing ample space for longer journeys. The ZDX is a 21-inch bag weighing 7.94 pounds, while the SwissGear is heavier at 11.1 pounds. You gain substantial packing volume and expandability but lose the ability to use the bag as a carry-on. This spinner suits travelers who need large checked capacity and durable softside construction, prioritizing space over the compact, cabin-ready profile of the ZDX.
Samsonite Freeform 2-Piece Hardside Set
The Samsonite Freeform 2-Piece Set includes a carry-on and a large checked bag, whereas the Briggs & Riley ZDX Global is a single 21-inch unit. The set offers hardside protection and a TSA lock, features not explicitly listed for the softside ZDX. The carry-on in the set weighs 6.5 pounds, which is lighter than the ZDX’s 7.94-pound weight. You get a complete travel system with matching aesthetics and spinner wheels for both pieces. This bundle fits travelers who want coordinated hardside protection and expanded capacity for both cabin and checked luggage, rather than a single expandable softside bag.
Travelpro Maxlite 5 21-Inch Spinner
The Travelpro Maxlite 5 21-Inch Spinner is a lightweight softside carry-on, similar in size to the Briggs & Riley ZDX Global. It measures 23 inches in height and 14.5 inches in length, with a weight of just 5.4 pounds. This is notably lighter than the ZDX’s 7.94-pound weight. The Travelpro also offers expandable capacity and a compact width of 9 inches. You gain a lighter, more flexible option for international travel with size allowances. This bag suits travelers who prioritize minimal weight and maneuverability over the specific structural design of the ZDX, while still maintaining a 21-inch carry-on profile.
LEVEL8 20 Inch Hardside Carry-On
The LEVEL8 20 Inch Hardside Carry-On provides rigid polycarbonate protection, contrasting with the softside construction of the Briggs & Riley ZDX Global. It measures 21.5 inches in height and weighs 7.7 pounds, which is slightly lighter than the ZDX’s 7.94 pounds. The LEVEL8 includes a TSA lock and features a compact width of 9.25 inches. You trade the expandable softside capacity of the ZDX for durable, scratch-resistant hardside protection. This bag fits travelers who prioritize impact resistance and organized packing for short trips, valuing the sleek, rigid design over the flexible, expandable nature of the ZDX.
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Briggs & Riley ZDX Global 21" Carry-On Best overall | Travelers needing expandable overhead carry-on space | |
| 2 | Delsey DLC Pro 16-Inch Underseat Best underseat | compact underseat storage and business travel | |
| 3 | Osprey Ozone Hardside 30-Inch Spinner Best premium | Extended trips requiring large checked luggage capacity | |
| 4 | SwissGear Sion Large Softside Spinner Best budget | extended trips requiring large checked capacity | |
| 5 | Samsonite Freeform 2-Piece Hardside Set Best 2-piece | travelers needing a matching carry-on and checked set | |
| 6 | Travelpro Maxlite 5 21-Inch Spinner Best carry-on 21-inch | lightweight international carry-on travel | |
| 7 | LEVEL8 20 Inch Hardside Carry-On Best 20 inch | Travelers needing durable hardshell protection |
Briggs & Riley ZDX Global 21" Carry-On
Best for: Travelers needing expandable overhead carry-on space
- Empty Weight
- 7.94 pounds
- Shell Material
- Softside
- Wheel Type
- Spinner
- Expandable Design
- Expandable
- Features
- Carry-On
- Color
- Black
The Briggs & Riley ZDX Global is a 21-inch softside carry-on spinner designed for travelers who need flexible packing space. Weighing 7.94 pounds with dimensions of 21 x 15 x 9.02 inches, it fits standard overhead bins. The softside shell allows for slight expansion, making it suitable for packing heavier loads. It features smooth-rolling spinner wheels for easy maneuvering through crowded airports. This bag suits frequent flyers who prioritize durability and reliable performance over rigid protection.
- Spinner wheels provide 360-degree mobility
- Softside shell allows for expansion
- Fits standard overhead carry-on bins
- Weighs 7.94 pounds for easy handling
- Softside construction offers less impact protection than hardshell options
- 21-inch height is standard, not an underseat size
- You need a durable bag that can expand for extra packing space
- You prefer the stability of spinner wheels over two-wheeled suitcases
- You want a lightweight carry-on that fits in overhead compartments
- You require a hardshell case for maximum impact resistance
- You need a bag that fits specifically under the seat in front of you
- You prefer a rigid structure that maintains its shape when empty
Verdict: Briggs & Riley ZDX Global 21-Inch Carry-On is a practical choice for travelers who value expandable capacity and smooth rolling. It fits those who need a reliable overhead bin bag that can handle variable packing loads.
Delsey DLC Pro 16-Inch Underseat
Best for: compact underseat storage and business travel
- Empty Weight
- 5.7 lbs
- Overall Dimensions
- 8.75 x 14.5 x 16 in
- Shell Material
- Polyester
- Wheel Type
- Shock-absorbing spinner wheels
- Closure Type
- Interlocking zipper pullers
- Shell
- Softside
The Delsey Paris DLC Pro is a 16-inch softside underseat carry-on designed for compact storage. Weighing 5.7 pounds, it measures 8.75 by 14.5 by 16 inches. It features spinner wheels, a USB-C port, and a dedicated 16-inch laptop sleeve. This bag suits travelers needing a lightweight option that fits under most airplane seats while keeping essentials organized.
- Softside polyester construction resists wear
- Spinner wheels offer smooth mobility
- Built-in USB-C port for charging
- Dedicated 16-inch laptop sleeve
- Weighs only 5.7 pounds
- 16-inch size limits packing capacity
- Softside shell offers less impact protection than hardshell options
- 5-year warranty is shorter than some competitors
- You need a bag that fits under most airplane seats
- You prioritize a lightweight carry-on under 6 pounds
- You want a dedicated sleeve for a 16-inch laptop
- You require a hardshell exterior for maximum durability
- You need checked luggage capacity
- You prefer a larger carry-on spinner
Verdict: Delsey Paris DLC Pro 16 Inch Underseater fits business travelers who need a lightweight, compact bag for underseat storage. It suits those who value organized compartments and easy maneuverability over high-impact protection.
Osprey Ozone Hardside 30-Inch Spinner
Best for: Extended trips requiring large checked luggage capacity
- Packing Capacity
- 100 L
- Overall Dimensions
- 29.5 x 19.7 x 13.8 inches
- Shell Material
- 63% recycled polycarbonate
- Wheel Type
- 60 mm Hinomoto dual spinner wheels
- Lock Type
- Built-in TSA-accepted lock
- Shell
- Hardside
The Osprey Ozone Hardside 30in is a large checked suitcase with 100 liters of packing space for trips over two weeks. It features a durable shell made from 63% recycled polycarbonate and four-wheel spinner design for smooth maneuverability. Premium 60 mm Hinomoto Silent Run dual spinner wheels glide easily. The ultralight aluminum dual-pole trolley provides stable steering. This bag suits travelers needing significant capacity for extended journeys.
- 100 liters of packing space
- Shell made from 63% recycled polycarbonate
- Premium 60 mm Hinomoto Silent Run wheels
- Ultralight aluminum dual-pole trolley
- 30-inch height exceeds standard carry-on limits
- 10-liter size designation indicates checked luggage classification
- Single size option in this variation limits fit for smaller spaces
- You are packing for trips lasting two weeks or more
- You need a large capacity checked bag for extended travel
- You prefer a shell made from recycled materials
- You need a bag that fits under an airplane seat
- You require a standard carry-on size for overhead bins
- You are looking for a lightweight underseater option
Verdict: Osprey Ozone Hardside 30in is a high-capacity checked bag for travelers on long trips. It fits those who prioritize durability and smooth rolling over compact carry-on dimensions.
SwissGear Sion Large Softside Spinner
Best for: extended trips requiring large checked capacity
- Empty Weight
- 11.1 pounds
- Overall Dimensions
- 30 x 18.5 x 12.5 inches
- Shell Material
- Polyester fabric
- Wheel Type
- 360-degree spinner wheels
- Closure Type
- Durable zippers
- Expandable Design
- Expansion feature
The SwissGear Sion Checked-Large is a softside spinner built for extended trips. It measures 29 x 18 x 12 inches and weighs 11.1 pounds. The durable polyester shell offers packing flexibility, while the expandable design adds storage capacity. You get smooth 360-degree mobility and a 10-year warranty. This suitcase suits travelers who need maximum space for long vacations or family trips.
- Softside polyester shell for flexible packing
- Expandable design increases storage capacity
- 360-degree spinner wheels for easy movement
- 10-year warranty for heavy-duty use
- Lightweight build at 11.1 pounds
- Heavier at 11.1 pounds than some competitors
- Larger 29-inch height limits cabin use
- Softside construction offers less impact protection
- You need extra packing space for long trips
- You prefer a softside suitcase for flexibility
- You want a 10-year warranty for durability
- You need a carry-on that fits under seats
- You prefer a hardshell for maximum protection
- You want the lightest possible checked bag
Verdict: SwissGear Sion Large Softside Spinner provides ample space and durability for checked travel. It fits travelers prioritizing capacity and warranty coverage over compact size.
Samsonite Freeform 2-Piece Hardside Set
Best for: travelers needing a matching carry-on and checked set
- Empty Weight
- 6.5 lbs
- Shell Material
- Polypropylene
- Wheel Type
- Four multidirectional spinner wheels
- Lock Type
- Built-in TSA-approved lock
- Shell
- Hardside
- Features
- Carry-On, Expandable, TSA Lock
This Samsonite set includes a carry-on and large checked spinner. The hardshell uses scratch-resistant polypropylene. The carry-on weighs 6.5 pounds and measures 23 by 15 by 10 inches. The large spinner weighs 9.6 pounds and measures 31.1 by 20.9 by 13.8 inches. Both pieces feature four multidirectional spinner wheels. A built-in TSA lock secures your belongings. This two-piece bundle offers a complete travel solution for domestic trips and longer journeys.
- Includes both carry-on and large checked luggage
- Four multidirectional spinner wheels for smooth rolling
- Scratch-resistant polypropylene hardshell construction
- Built-in TSA-approved combination lock
- Carry-on weighs 6.5 pounds
- Large spinner weighs 9.6 pounds
- You need a complete two-piece luggage set
- You prefer hardside protection for your bags
- You want a carry-on with spinner wheels
- You only need a single carry-on bag
- You require a lightweight softside option
- You need an underseat carry-on size
Verdict: Samsonite Freeform 2-Piece Spinner Set bundles a carry-on and large checked bag in one package. It suits travelers who want matching hardside protection and spinner wheels for both their cabin and checked items.
Travelpro Maxlite 5 21-Inch Spinner
Best for: lightweight international carry-on travel
- Packing Capacity
- 46 L
- Empty Weight
- 5.4 lbs
- Overall Dimensions
- 23 x 14.5" x 9"
- Shell Material
- Polyester
- Wheel Type
- 360° spinner wheels
- Closure Type
- High-strength zippers
The Travelpro Maxlite 5 is a 21-inch softside spinner designed for international carry-on limits. It weighs 5.4 lbs and offers 46 liters of volume. The shell features a DuraGuard coating for stain and water resistance. You get four spinner wheels for smooth maneuvering and an expandable design that adds up to 2 inches of space. This model includes a limited lifetime warranty and repair coverage for airline damage.
- Weighs 5.4 lbs for easy handling
- Expands up to 2 inches for extra packing space
- Features 360-degree spinner wheels for smooth rolling
- DuraGuard coating provides stain and water resistance
- Softside polyester shell offers less impact protection than hardshell options
- Limited lifetime warranty excludes damage caused by airlines after the first year
- Overall height reaches 23 inches with wheels, exceeding strict 21-inch carry-on limits
- You need a lightweight bag that meets most international carry-on size limits
- You want expandable storage for variable packing needs
- You prefer a softside design with external organization pockets
- You require a hardshell case for maximum impact protection
- You need a bag that strictly fits under 21 inches including wheels
- You want comprehensive airline damage coverage beyond the first year
Verdict: Travelpro Maxlite 5 21-Inch Softside suits travelers who prioritize lightweight mobility and expandable capacity over rigid shell protection. It is a practical option for those navigating international airports with flexible size allowances.
LEVEL8 20 Inch Hardside Carry-On
Best for: Travelers needing durable hardshell protection
- Packing Capacity
- 40 L
- Empty Weight
- 7.72 lbs
- Overall Dimensions
- 21.5 x 14.5 x 9.2 Inch
- Shell Material
- Polycarbonate
- Wheel Type
- Double spinner
- Lock Type
- TSA Lock
The LEVEL8 20 Inch hardshell carry-on uses a 3-layer polycarbonate shell for sturdy protection. It weighs 7.7 pounds and offers 40 liters of packing capacity. The design includes multi-directional double spinner wheels and a retractable handle for smooth handling. It comes with a TSA lock and four included packing cubes. This suitcase suits travelers needing a durable, lightweight option for short trips.
- 40 liters of packing capacity
- Lightweight 7.7 pound weight
- Includes 4 packing cubes
- Multi-directional double spinner wheels
- 40 liter capacity is smaller than many 20-inch competitors
- 7.7 pound weight is heavier than softside alternatives
- You want a hardshell case for fragile items
- You prefer organized packing with included cubes
- You need a 20-inch carry-on for 1-3 day trips
- You require maximum packing space
- You prefer a lighter softside build
- You need a larger checked bag
Verdict: The LEVEL8 20 Inch Hardshell Carry-On fits travelers who prioritize durable polycarbonate protection and organized packing over maximum capacity. It is a solid choice for short trips where style and protection matter.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Briggs & Riley ZDX Global 21" Carry-On | Delsey DLC Pro 16-Inch Underseat | Osprey Ozone Hardside 30-Inch Spinner | SwissGear Sion Large Softside Spinner | Samsonite Freeform 2-Piece Hardside Set | Travelpro Maxlite 5 21-Inch Spinner | LEVEL8 20 Inch Hardside Carry-On |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Packing Capacity | – | – | 100 L | – | – | 46 L | 40 L |
| Empty Weight | 7.94 pounds | 5.7 lbs | – | 11.1 pounds | 6.5 lbs | 5.4 lbs | 7.72 lbs |
| Overall Dimensions | – | 8.75 x 14.5 x 16 in | 29.5 x 19.7 x 13.8 inches | 30 x 18.5 x 12.5 inches | – | 23 x 14.5" x 9" | 21.5 x 14.5 x 9.2 Inch |
| Shell Material | Softside | Polyester | 63% recycled polycarbonate | Polyester fabric | Polypropylene | Polyester | Polycarbonate |
| Wheel Type | Spinner | Shock-absorbing spinner wheels | 60 mm Hinomoto dual spinner wheels | 360-degree spinner wheels | Four multidirectional spinner wheels | 360° spinner wheels | Double spinner |
| Closure Type | – | Interlocking zipper pullers | – | Durable zippers | – | High-strength zippers | – |
| Expandable Design | Expandable | – | – | Expansion feature | – | Expands up to 2" | – |
| Lock Type | – | – | Built-in TSA-accepted lock | – | Built-in TSA-approved lock | – | TSA Lock |
| Shell | Softside | Softside | Hardside | Softside | Hardside | Softside | Hardside |
| Wheels | Spinner Wheels | Spinner Wheels | Spinner Wheels | Spinner Wheels | Spinner Wheels | Spinner Wheels | Spinner Wheels |
| Features | Carry-On | Carry-On | – | Expandable, Lightweight | Carry-On, Expandable, TSA Lock | Carry-On, Expandable, Lightweight | Carry-On, TSA Lock, Lightweight |
| Type | – | Underseat | Rolling | – | – | – | – |
| Pieces | – | – | – | – | 2-Piece | – | – |
| Laptop Size | – | 16-Inch Laptop | – | – | – | – | – |
| Color | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black | Burgundy | Black |
| Size | 21" Carry-On | 16 Inch Underseater | Luggage 100L | Checked-Large | 2-Piece Set (Carry-on/Large) | Carry-On 21-Inch | 20 Inch |
| Use | – | – | – | – | – | Women | – |
| Style | Wheeled | Wheeled | Wheeled | Wheeled | Wheeled | Wheeled | Wheeled |
| Dimensions | 15 × 9.02 × 21 inches | 8.75 × 14.5 × 16 inches | 13.8 × 19.7 × 29.5 inches | 18 × 10.5 × 29 inches | 31.1 × 21 × 13.8 inches | 14.5 × 9 × 23 inches | 14.6 × 9.25 × 21.5 inches |
| Weight | 7.94 pounds | 5.7 pounds | – | 11.1 pounds | 6.5 pounds | 5.4 pounds | 7.7 pounds |
| Model | ZXU221SPXW-4 | 40210245200 | 10007434 | 6283202181 | 80242-1041 | 401176109 | LP-8861M-02T00 |
Frequently asked questions
Which alternative offers the lightest weight for a 21-inch carry-on?
The Travelpro Maxlite 5 21-Inch Spinner is the lightest option at 5.4 pounds. It features a softside shell and spinner wheels for easy maneuverability. This bag is designed for travelers who prioritize lightweight mobility and expandable capacity for international trips.
What is the smallest underseat option available?
The Delsey DLC Pro 16-Inch Underseat is the most compact choice. It measures 16 inches in height and 8.75 inches in length. Weighing only 5.7 pounds, it fits business travelers needing organized compartments and easy storage under airplane seats.
Which bag provides the most durable hardside protection?
The LEVEL8 20 Inch Hardside Carry-On offers durable polycarbonate protection. It weighs 7.7 pounds and includes a TSA lock. This model suits travelers who prioritize rugged shell protection and organized packing for short trips where style matters.
Is there a 2-piece luggage set available?
Yes, the Samsonite Freeform 2-Piece Hardside Set bundles a carry-on and a large checked bag. The set weighs 6.5 pounds combined and features spinner wheels. It is ideal for travelers wanting matching hardside protection for both cabin and checked items.
Which option is best for extended trips requiring large capacity?
The SwissGear Sion Large Softside Spinner is designed for ample space. It measures 29 inches in height and weighs 11.1 pounds. This softside bag fits travelers who prioritize large capacity and durability for checked travel on extended trips.
Which bag is best for long trips with high capacity needs?
The Osprey Ozone Hardside 30-Inch Spinner provides high-capacity storage. It measures 29.5 inches in height and features a hardside shell with spinner wheels. This bag fits travelers on long trips who prioritize durability and smooth rolling over compact dimensions.
