Embracer Group-owned CRKD recently launched a backpack, the $99.99 Vortex 1.0. During a recent vacation, I swapped it in place of my go-to for the past eight or so years, the 20-liter Peak Design Everyday backpack, which CRKD has thoroughly cribbed the look of. However, the Vortex has handheld gaming pockets, which helps it stand out, especially at this price.
I generally like using the Peak Design backpack, except that bringing it on vacations means that I have to leave my handheld(s) at home. It’s not wide enough to accommodate even the original Switch once things are stuffed into its side pockets. The Vortex 1.0, on the other hand, let me bring both my Switch 2 and Steam Deck, thanks to its two dedicated handheld sleeves. It’s also wider and taller, which means its top zipper compartment can hold a 16-inch laptop and a tablet.
Despite its similarities with the Peak Design Everyday backpack, there are little details the Vortex should have (but didn’t) attempt to duplicate, like having multiple handles that let you carry it either vertically or horizontally, or having velcro-equipped shelves that let you tweak the height and width of each compartment.
The Vortex 1.0 is a third of the cost of the 30-liter Everyday backpack, making it a good value for gamers who don’t want to turn packing into a game of Tetris. But its materials and shoulder strap padding don’t feel as durable or breathable compared to my Peak Design bag, which still looks and operates in like-new condition after nearly a decade. In other words, the Vortex can’t compete toe-to-toe in some of the most important ways with the backpack that it’s trying to clone.
Photography by Cameron Faulkner / The Verge