Packing for a trip can be stressful enough without having to worry about your luggage holding up. With so many options on the market, it can be tough to decide which luggage brand you can really trust with protecting your belongings as you jet set around the world.
Two of the top contenders are Samsonite’s Omni 2 and Centric 2 luggage lines. But which collection truly comes out on top?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll compare and contrast the key features of the Omni 2 and Centric 2 luggage to help you determine the best choice for your needs and budget. We’ll dive into the materials, size options, maneuverability, security features, warranties, and more so you can shop confidently.
Let’s get packing!
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Samsonite Omni 2 | Samsonite Centric 2 |
| Shell Material | Polycarbonate with grooved ridges | Polycarbonate |
| Bottom Material | Reinforced with rubber | Polycarbonate |
| Interior Material | Nylon fabric lining | Unlined polycarbonate |
| Wheels | 8 spinner wheels | 8 spinner wheels |
| Handle System | Manual lock | Push-button lock |
| Lock Type | TSA-approved combination lock | TSA-approved combination lock |
| Warranty | 10 years, covers airline damage | 10 years, manufacturing defects |
Overview of Samsonite Omni 2
Samsonite’s Omni 2 line aims to provide the ultimate balance of lightweight durability, packing versatility, and stylish design.
This second generation of the Omni collection focuses on enhancing maneuverability and reducing weight.
The polycarbonate shell has been constructed with ridges and grooves for added strength against cracking or impact damage.
The micro-diamond texture also helps disguise scratches and scuffs from the wear and tear of travel.
Omni 2 comes equipped with TSA-approved combination locks to secure belongings as you make your way through airports.
The interior features cross straps and a divider curtain to keep contents organized. The expandable models provide up to 2 extra inches of packing capacity when needed. With bold, modern colors like emerald green and navy blue, Omni 2 brings personality to its reliably sturdy construction.
Overview of Samsonite Centric 2
Samsonite designed its Centric 2 line to deliver exceptional quality and security at an affordable price point.
This polycarbonate collection is both lightweight and extremely durable to withstand rugged travel conditions.
The scratch-resistant texture hides typical wear from handling and transportation while the side-mounted TSA locks keep contents secure.
Centric 2 boasts stylish and contemporary color options like matte black and silver.
The interior organization includes divider panels, cross straps, and a wet/dry pocket for packing shoes or toiletries separately. Spacious designs allow you to overpack when necessary and then compress contents back down. Centric 2 combines practicality with versatility at a reasonable cost.
Comparing Materials and Durability
When selecting luggage, the materials directly affect both durability and weight, which are two key performance factors. Let’s see how the Omni 2 and Centric 2 models stack up.
Shell Material
- Both constructed from 100% polycarbonate for lightweight strength
- Omni 2 features ribbed, grooved ridges for added impact resistance
- Centric 2 relies on basic polycarbonate shell
Bottom Material
- Omni 2: Reinforced with rubber for abrasion resistance
- Centric 2: Unreinforced polycarbonate
Interior Material
- Omni 2: Fully lined with nylon fabric
- Centric 2: Unlined polycarbonate shell
The Omni 2 offers more protective materials from top to bottom. While both have sturdy polycarbonate shells, the Omni 2 takes it a step further with the grooved ridges and rubber bottom. This results in enhanced structural integrity and prevention against cracking or wearing through.
The unlined Centric 2 remains remarkably light, but may be more prone to interior damage from sharp contents without a fabric lining to protect the shell. Overall, the Omni 2 claims greater durability.
Sizing Options Comparison
Luggage sizing depends on your specific packing needs. Let’s look at the dimensions of each collection.
Omni 2
- 20” Carry On: Meets carry on size limits
- 24” Medium: Versatile checked bag size
- 28” Large: Spacious interior for lengthy trips
Centric 2
- 20” Carry On: Fits overhead compartments
- 26” Medium: Maximizes packing capacity
- 29” Large Expandable: Extends up to 2” when needed
While both carry convenient 20” carry on versions, the Centric offers slightly larger medium and large bags. This makes them better equipped to handle bulky items or extended packing. However, do keep airline size and weight restrictions in mind if opting for the spacious 29” expandable.
Maneuverability and Rolling Performance
Ease of transport is key when hauling packed luggage through airports and hotels. Let’s see how these collections’ mobility features compare.
Omni 2
- 8 multi-directional spinner wheels
- Lightweight polycarbonate provides easy mobility
- Bottom handle for grabbing and lifting
Centric 2
- 8 smooth-rolling spinner wheels
- Push-button locking handle system
- Side and bottom carry handles
Both offer excellent maneuverability from their 8 wheel spinner configuration, rotating smoothly in any direction.
With lightweight polycarbonate construction, you won’t have to exert much effort guiding them alongside you.
The Centric 2 takes a slight lead with its push-button handle locking at variable heights.
This makes it simpler to lock the handle securely wherever is most comfortable. The Omni 2 handle requires manually tightening screws to hold position.
Security Features Comparison
Protecting your belongings starts with preventing unwanted entry in the first place. Let’s explore how these models safeguard contents.
Omni 2
- Integrated TSA-approved combination lock
- Externally mounted for accessibility
- Keys included if needed for TSA inspection
Centric 2
- TSA-approved side mounted combination locks
- 3 digit lock can be reset as needed
- No keys required for TSA access
Both feature TSA-approved combination locks, meaning airport security can access the bags if needed with universal master keys. This prevents your luggage from being damaged should it need to be inspected.
The Omni 2 lock might provide slightly quicker access since it’s externally mounted, while the Centric 2 lock is integrated discreetly into the side. But for the most part, they offer comparable protection against theft and picking.
Size, Weight, and Capacity Comparison
When evaluating luggage, it’s important to consider overall portability and packing efficiency. Here’s how they measure up:
| Size | Omni 2 | Centric 2 |
| 20” Carry On | 7.7 lbs 1,926 cu in | 7.4 lbs 1,841 cu in |
| 24”/26” Medium | 9.7 lbs 2,582 cu in | 8.6 lbs 2,807 cu in |
| 28”/29” Large | 11.4 lbs 3,430 cu in | 10.1 lbs 3,658 cu in |
The Centric 2 bags offer slightly higher packing capacity while maintaining lower overall weight. This makes them ideal if you need to fit bulkier items or maximize interior space.
The Omni 2 weighs a bit more due to its reinforced materials, but the difference is modest. For most travelers, the extra pound or two of weight in the Omni 2 will be worth it for the added durability.
Warranties Compared
A good warranty provides peace of mind in case defects arise. Here is the coverage offered:
Omni 2
- 10 year limited warranty
- Covers damage from airline handling
- Provide proof of purchase
Centric 2
- 10 year limited warranty
- Covers manufacturer defects
- Must provide proof of purchase
The warranties are virtually identical at first glance. However, the Omni 2 does specifically cover airline damage, which is one of the main risks of checked luggage. This gives it a slight edge for safeguarding your investment while traveling.
Prices and Value Comparison
With the features laid out, let’s evaluate the value you get at each price point.
| Model | Omni 2 Price | Centric 2 Price |
| 20” Carry On | $160 | $120 |
| 24”/26” Medium | $180 | $140 |
| 28”/29” Large | $200 | $160 |
Across the board, the Centric 2 costs about $40-50 less than the comparable Omni 2. The lower prices coupled with slightly higher capacity make the Centric 2 a better bargain buy.
That said, the Omni 2 justifies the slightly higher cost with enhanced materials and construction that deliver better long term durability. If your budget accommodates, the Omni 2 is arguably the smarter lifetime investment.
Main Pros and Cons of Samsonite Omni 2 And Centric 2 Luggage
Here’s a quick rundown of the core pros and cons of each collection:
Omni 2 Pros
- Extremely durable polycarbonate construction
- TSA-approved external locks for quick access
- Expansive 10 year manufacturer warranty
Omni 2 Cons
- Slightly smaller capacity than Centric 2
- Higher price point
Centric 2 Pros
- Removable divider panels for custom packing
- Lighter weight but sizable capacity
- Budget-friendly pricing
Centric 2 Cons
- Less durable shell and lining materials
- Zippers and handles may be less rugged
Also Read: Comparison of Samsonite Outline Pro And Freeform Luggage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Samsonite Omni is a durable, lightweight polycarbonate luggage collection known for its scratch-resistant texture and versatile interior organization. It aims to provide the ideal balance of resilience, mobility, and packing efficiency.
The Omni 2 weights: 20” Carry On: 7.7 lbs, 24” Medium: 9.7 lbs, 28” Large: 11.4 lbs
So the smaller carry on is remarkably light, while the large suitcase remains manageable at just over 11 lbs.
Samsonite is consistently ranked among the top luggage brands, especially in terms of durability and value. Key benefits include lightweight polycarbonate shells, smooth spinner wheels, TSA-approved locks, and expansive 10 year warranties. For quality at moderate prices, Samsonite is a leading contender.
For maximum durability under heavy use, Briggs & Riley, Eagle Creek, and Travelpro rank at the top. These brands use ultra-strong ballistic nylon and reinforced engineering. However, they come at luxury price points.
For affordable but reliable durability, Samsonite and Delsey are excellent choices with hardy polycarbonate materials and protective construction.
The Verdict: Omni 2 Is Best Overall
When considering critical factors like durability, security, warranty coverage, and overall quality, the Samsonite Omni 2 emerges as the superior luggage line between these two solid options.
The Omni 2 simply outperforms when it comes to resilient materials, impact resistance, internal organization, and lasting performance under travel conditions.
While it costs a bit more upfront, the 10 year warranty ensures your investment stays protected.
Centric 2 excels when it comes to packing efficiency and cost value.
Its lightweight build and cavernous interiors allow you to load it up while staying under airline weight limits. If you want maximum space and don’t plan to check the bags frequently, Centric 2 can be a worthwhile choice.
But for most travelers who need checked luggage that can endure bumps, tosses, drops, and inclement weather over years of use, the Omni 2 is worth the extra investment. Pick the Omni 2 for rugged polycarbonate protection and comfortable maneuverability you can rely on season after season.
