Packing for a trip is stressful enough without having to worry about your luggage holding up. That’s why choosing a quality, durable suitcase from a reputable brand is so important. When it comes to top names in luggage, Level 8 and Samsonite stand out from the crowd.
But which is right for you?
In this in-depth comparison guide, we’ll stack Level 8 vs Samsonite across a wide range of categories to highlight the pros and cons of each. Read on to learn how these two luggage titans measure up.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Category | Level 8 | Samsonite |
| Materials | Polycarbonate shell | Mixed materials |
| Wheels and maneuverability | Excellent dual spinners, smooth mobility | Excellent spinners, good mobility |
| Size range | Standard sizes only | Huge variety of sizes |
| Weight | Extremely light polycarbonate | Heavier but some lightweight options |
| Security features | TSA locks | TSA locks plus theft deterrents |
| Expandability | Non-expandable | Many models expandable |
| Interior organization | Minimal, open space | Lots of compartments and pockets |
| Warranty | 10 years coverage | 10 years coverage |
| Style | Sleek, modern, stylish | Functional but boxy, bulky |
| Price | Mid-range | Budget to premium options |
| Durability | Decent but some weaknesses | Extremely durable construction |
| Airline damage resistance | Moderate | Excellent |
Key Differences Between Level 8 And Samsonite Luggage
- Materials and Construction
The materials used in luggage construction significantly impact the bag’s durability, weight, and look.
Level 8 uses 100% polycarbonate for their shells. This thermoplastic material is extremely lightweight yet strong and rigid. It resists fractures and retains its shape well when stressed. The glossy finish hides scratches. Level 8 combines this with leather trim and accents for a polished look.
Samsonite takes a mixed materials approach, using combinations of polycarbonate, nylon, polypropylene, and other textiles in their designs. This allows them to balance lightweight strength with flexible softness across shell and interior.
The nylon is abrasion resistant while the polycarbonate bends and pops back instead of cracking.
For frames, Level 8 uses durable aluminum while Samsonite relies on hard plastics or fiberglass. Both brands are comparable in quality, but Samsonite’s blended material construction gives it the edge when it comes to resilience.
Winner: Samsonite for mixed materials adding durability.
- Maneuverability and Wheels
It’s no use having a suitcase that’s impossible to navigate smoothly through an airport or hotel lobby.
Maneuverability is crucial, and wheels are what makes that happen.
Both Level 8 and Samsonite equip their luggage with smooth-rolling multi-directional spinner wheels so they glide effortlessly when tilted or turned.
Spinner wheels are ideal for crowded environments.
For their carry-on bags, Level 8 and Samsonite both utilize dual wheels (two smaller wheels per corner) which offer greater stability when loaded heavier. Larger checked bags have the standard two or four larger spinner wheels.
When it comes to wheel and maneuver performance, it’s a dead heat. Level 8 and Samsonite both excel at easy steering luggage. However, the sleeker profiles of Level 8 bags allow them to take up slightly less space, giving them a small advantage.
Winner: Tie, with a slight edge to Level 8 for slimmer clearance.
- Size Options
Having a range of sizes to choose from ensures you can find the right suitcase for every type of trip. This is an area where Samsonite really outshines Level 8.
Samsonite offers an immense selection of sizes from 15-inch laptop briefs to 40-inch jumbo cases. You’ll find options specifically sized for carry-ons, checked luggage, golf bags, business, and more.
Meanwhile, Level 8 focuses mainly on producing standard checked bags and carry-ons in a few set dimensions. They don’t cater to specialty uses as much.
Clearly, if having a wide spectrum of size configurations matters, Samsonite is the winner here. But Level 8 covers the basics well.
Winner: Samsonite for vastly more size variety.
- Weight
When lugging bags in and out of cars, across airports, and up staircases, weight matters. Heavier luggage quickly becomes a painful burden.
Here, Level 8 excels thanks to their commitment to 100% lightweight polycarbonate.
Their carry-ons weigh as little as 6.7 lbs while checked bags are under 9 lbs.
This is incredibly light and easy to transport over long distances.
Because Samsonite uses denser materials like nylon in their fabrications, their standard cases tend to be heavier.
Polycarbonate versions still weigh 7-8 lbs for carry-ons, while most checked bags are 10-12 lbs.
They do offer some lightweight options, but Level 8 takes the crown when it comes to minimal weight.
Winner: Level 8 for featherlight polycarbonate construction.
- Security Features
Protecting your belongings while traveling is a major priority. That’s why luggage security elements like lock systems and theft deterrents are so important.
Both Level 8 and Samsonite gear their bags with handy TSA-approved combination locks to keep prying hands out of your stuff. Level 8 uses custom designed tamper-proof zippers too.
For theft protection, Samsonite cases often feature zipper pulls that can attach to fixed points with a lock. Some also have lockable straps. Level 8 lacks additional anti-theft features.
When it comes to innovative security, Samsonite wins out with their latest collections featuring Bluetooth proximity sensors that alert your phone if your bag moves out of range. Pretty cool!
Winner: Samsonite for more comprehensive security options.
- Expandability
No matter how carefully you plan packing, it never fails that you end up needing more space.
Being able to expand your luggage provides flexibility.
Many Samsonite models offer zipper expansions to increase packed volume by 1-3 inches when required.
This prevents overstuffing while allowing you to bring souvenirs home!
Level 8 bags do not include expansion options.
What you see is what you get with their set dimensions. Occasional overpackers may find this limiting.
Winner: Samsonite for built-in expandability.
- Interior Organization
Keep your clothes wrinkle-free and essentials easy to find with interior organization features. This is another Samsonite strong suit.
Most Samsonite luggage is outfitted with ample zippered pockets, wet/dry compartments, tie-down straps, and divider panels. This enables specialized packing configurations.
Level 8 opts for a sparer approach with wide open interiors to maximize packing space. You won’t find much in the way of built-in organization. Aftermarket packing cubes can help.
If you crave compartments and places for everything, Samsonite has you covered. But Level 8 offers flexible free-form packing. Choose based on your needs.
Winner: Tie. Depends whether you prefer organization or open space.
- Warranties
No matter how hardy, luggage takes a beating. Strong warranty coverage provides peace of mind that your investment is protected.
Level 8 offers an impressive “Love It or Return It” 30 day trial period plus a competitive 10 year worldwide limited warranty covering damage to wheels, handles, zippers, and functional aspects from airline handling when used normally. Defects are also covered.
Samsonite matches Level 8’s warranty period with a 10 year limited global warranty against workmanship/material defects. Both warranties must be registered and require proof of purchase plus adherence to the coverage terms.
When it comes to reassurance from manufacturing flaws or airline incidents, both brands deliver excellent protection. Check the details, but expect similar coverage.
Winner: Tie for strong 10 year warranties from each company.
- Style and Design
Let’s face it – part of luggage’s appeal is looking good while jet-setting. When it comes to aesthetics, Level 8 clearly surpasses Samsonite.
Level 8 bags are the epitome of modern chic. The sleek, seamless polycarbonate shells and muted colors exude understated elegance and style. The minimalist look feels current and sophisticated.
Samsonite opts for functional design with boxy shapes and ample logos. The tri-color styling has a dated, 90s vibe. While not unattractive, Samsonite bags won’t win any fashion awards.
For shoppers wanting luggage that turns heads, Level 8 offers miles more curb appeal and stylish flair. But the less glamorous Samsonite gets the job done.
Winner: Level 8 by a landslide for contemporary aesthetics.
- Prices and Value
With both claiming premium quality, how do Level 8 and Samsonite prices weigh up? Let’s compare the numbers.
Level 8 pricing falls solidly in the mid-range bracket, starting at $255 for carry-ons and $295 for most checked sizes.
These prices are reasonable given the materials and features.
Samsonite’s polycarbonate and nylon models span a wider budget to premium spectrum.
Entry level is around $130 for basic bags, while premium collections run $500+.
But many bags land in the moderate $200-$400 bracket.
When you factor in brand reputation, warranty coverage, and construction, both brands deliver respectable value at their respective price points.
It’s a draw when it comes to fair pricing.
Winner: Tie for delivering quality at different budget levels.
- Durability and Longevity
No matter how beautifully designed luggage is, it does you no good if it falls apart after a few trips. Durability matters.
This is an area where Samsonite’s rigorous stress testing pays off. Their mixed material cases resist abrasion, flexing, and impact incredibly well over years of adventure. Samsonite builds its bags to last.
Level 8 uses hardy polycarbonate, but some users report issues with scratching and broken handles after prolonged use. The thin leather trim is also prone to peeling with wear. They’re decently durable but not bomb-proof.
For road warriors wanting virtually indestructible luggage, Samsonite is the clear pick. But Level 8 will withstand normal travel abuse, just watch for weaknesses like handles and zippers.
Winner: Samsonite for unbeatable resilience.
- Maneuverability Around the Airport
Navigating crowded terminals and awkward security lines requires luggage that’s exceedingly nimble and compliant. How do our brands handle these environments?
Thanks to their smooth-rolling dual spinners, both Level 8 and Samsonite excel at multi-directional movement – easy pivoting and tilt steering abound.
However, Samsonite’s frequently boxy and bulky shapes have slightly more clearance challenges around tight squeezes. Level 8’s lower profile, sleeker silhouettes give them adexterity edge.
For pure maneuverability, Level 8 ekes out the win. But both brands are airport-friendly if you opt for spinner versions.
Winner: Level 8 with more flexible slim shapes.
- Ease of Packing and Access
Ideal luggage makes organizing your belongings and accessing them on the go hassle-free. How do these brands stack up when it’s time to pack up?
Samsonite’s organizational compartments and pockets are tailor-made for packing order and separation. Interior lid pockets plus expandability provide versatility.
With Level 8, the sparse interiors leave everything up to you – so bring packing cubes! Access is easy thanks to wide openings, but organization is DIY.
For hardcore devotees of compartments and specialized spots for everything, Samsonite rules. But Level 8 gives you open flexibility. Take your pick based on packing style.
Winner: Tie depending on your organizational needs.
- Airline Damage Resistance
Between turbulent flights, careless baggage handlers, and accidents on conveyor belts, airline damage is an unfortunate reality. Luggage must endure abuse.
Here, Samsonite’s extreme impact resistance has a clear advantage. The company rigorously tests the limits of their cases through drop testing and simulating blows. Samsonite cases can withstand a beating.
Level 8 polycarbonate provides decent shock absorption, but some travelers report cracks, fractures, and breakages after aggressive airline handling. Not as heavy duty.
If you check bags frequently, Samsonite offers more robust protection from airline damage over time. But both brands cover this under their warranties.
Winner: Samsonite for unparalleled impact resistance.
Also Read: Is LEVEL8 Better Than Away Luggage?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes, Level 8 is considered a good luggage brand. They make durable polycarbonate suitcases with high-end features like TSA approved locks, interior compression panels, and dual spinner wheels. Their bags are lightweight and stylish. The company offers a solid 10 year limited warranty as well.
A standard Level 8 carry-on bag weighs approximately 6.7 to 7.5 lbs. This is very light compared to most other polycarbonate brands, making Level 8 a great choice if you want minimal baggage weight.
No, Level 8 does not offer a true lifetime warranty. Their limited warranty provides 10 years of coverage against defects and damage to things like zippers and wheels when used normally. This is still a strong warranty compared to many brands.
Samsonite is among the best-known and popular luggage brands, but there are many high quality suitcase companies. Samsonite is especially notable for extremely durable construction that makes their bags ideal for frequent travelers. Their use of mixed materials adds security and longevity.
The Verdict: Which Is Better – Level 8 Or Samsonite?
With the comparisons complete, which brand emerges as the overall winner?
For travelers who prioritize lightweight convenience and sleek styling, Level 8 edges out Samsonite as the best choice.
However, for those wanting ultimate protection and organization, Samsonite’s durable mixed material bags win out.
Frequent fliers who check luggage on every flight will get the most mileage out of Samsonite’s indestructible cases. Their history of innovation also inspires confidence.
Occasional travelers who appreciate flexibility and modern aesthetics are better served by Level 8’s featherlight, fashionable luggage.
Both are reputable, quality brands that make suitcases built to help adventure go smoothly. Keep your individual travel habits and needs front of mind when choosing between Level 8 and Samsonite.
With this comprehensive comparison guide at your fingertips, you can confidently select the perfect luggage for hassle-free trips ahead. Here’s to happy travels with a suitcase that’s up for the journey, wherever life takes you next!
