Black Ember Citadel R3 20 vs Vertx Ready Pack X
The Black Ember Citadel R3 20 is 20L and 1.25kg2.8lb; the Vertx Ready Pack X is 20L and 1.29kg2.8lb. The Black Ember Citadel R3 20 is 0.04kg0.1lb lighter. The Vertx Ready Pack X costs $22.00999999999999 less. The Black Ember Citadel R3 20 fits the carry-on limit of 36 of 36 major airlines and the Vertx Ready Pack X fits 36; under the seat, 7 and 8 of 26.
| Spec | Black Ember Citadel R3 20 | Vertx Ready Pack X |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $245 | $222.99Best |
| Volume | 20L | 20L |
| Weight | 1.25kg2.8lbBest | 1.29kg2.8lb |
| Carry-on compliance | 100% | 100% |
| Personal-item compliance | 27% | 31%Best |
| Dimensions | 44×30×17cm17.5×12×6.5in | 41.9×27.9×19.1cm16.5×11×7.5in |
| Laptop | 14" | 15"Best |
| Bottle pockets | n/a | 2 |
| Opening | main compartment zip, separate suspended laptop sleeve | Zippered main compartment |
| Warranty | Lifetime | 2 years |
| Organizer | Yes | Yes |
| Shoe compartment | No | No |
| Hydration sleeve | No | No |
| Frame sheet | No | No |
| Water-resistant | Yes | No |
| Rain cover | No | No |
| MOLLE | No | Yes |
| Hip belt | No | No |
| Sternum strap | Removable | Yes |
| Load lifters | No | No |
| Shoulder strap | No | No |
| Luggage pass-through | Yes | Yes |
| Camera compartment | No | No |
| Material | EmberTex PFAS-free 1220x600D nylon 6 with bonded laser-cut Hypalon panels, 200D ripstop nylon lining, YKK Aquaguard zippers, T6 anodized aluminum hardware | 500D nylon and 420D nylon mini ripstop shell, 210HD nylon PU-coated lining |
| Last checked | 2026-10 | 2026-09 |
Where their airline fit differs
| Airline | Limit | Black Ember Citadel R3 20 | Vertx Ready Pack X |
|---|---|---|---|
| JetBlue Airways | Personal item | Too big | Fits |
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Specs come from each brand's own product page. Fit uses listed dimensions in any orientation. How we score carry-on fit.