We've welcomed a lot of new folks to the TOM BIHN community recently, and with the Guide’s Edition Synapse 19 release, we thought we’d revisit one burning question: Should I get the Synapse or the Synik? That got us thinking: it’s about time for a refresh on the differences between the Synapse and the Synik—two very similar-looking, yet vastly different bags.

At first glance, the Synapse and the Synik look nearly identical. But beneath their multi-pocketed exteriors and turtle shell-like shapes lie several differences. How do these two bags compare, side-by-side, and which bag is right for you? 

Synapse

First released in the early 2000s, the Synapse 19 quickly became a staple in our product line. Though initially designed for day hikes, it gained popularity as an everyday carry bag and ultralight minimalist travel backpack. We later introduced the Synapse 25, a slightly larger option for those who want extra carry capacity.

Guide’s Edition Synapse

A Synapse, reimagined for the outdoors. The Guide’s Edition brings a more adventurous spirit to the same versatile design. Ready for the trail, the city, and everything in between. The GE Synapse 25 was introduced to our lineup in 2017 and has now retired. Today, we introduced the GE Synapse 19, its smaller counterpart, as a surprise early October launch.

Synik

The Synik 30 and Synik 22 were introduced into our lineup in 2019 after requests and suggestions on ways to enhance the design of the original Synapse. In 2024, the midsize Synik 26 was released for that perfect in-between size. Like the Synapse, the Synik is a catch-all backpack–travel, everyday use, or hitting the trail. 

Guide’s Edition Synik

A Synik, reimagined for the outdoors. The Guide’s Edition brings a more adventurous spirit to the same versatile design. Ready for the trail, the city, and everything in between. The GE Synik 30 was introduced to our lineup in 2020, with the GE Synik 26 following in 2025. 

So, what are the key differences between the Synapse and Synik? 

Front

Synapse:

• Five exterior pockets

Synik:

• Five exterior pockets

Main Compartment 

Synapse:

• Half-zip opening

Synik:

• Full clamshell zipper opening

Back

Synapse:

• Breathable spacer mesh back panel

Synik:

• Breathable spacer mesh back panel

Laptop Compartment

Synapse:

• None

Synik:

• Built-in laptop pocket with two-way entry

Rolling-Luggage Pass-Through Sleeve

Synapse:

• None

Synik:

• Yes

Grab Handle

Synapse:

• Smooth webbing handle

Synik:

• Slightly more substantial padded bowtie handle

Shoulder Straps

Synapse:

• Edgeless EV50 ½”/12mm shoulder straps 

Synik:

• Edgeless EV50 ½”/12mm shoulder straps

Frame

Synapse:

• None 

Synik:

• Removable frame sheet

Label Placement

Synapse:

• Front and center 

Synik:

• Bottom right corner

Total O-Rings

Synapse 19:

• 8

Synapse 25:

• 9

Synik 22:

• 10

Synik 26:

• 10

Synik 30:

• 11

Exterior Fabric

Both the Synapse and Synik are offered in a range of thoughtfully selected, high-performance fabrics–each with its own unique strengths:

• 630d High-Tenacity Ballistic Nylon (bluesign® certified): A densely woven, abrasion-resistant classic. Tough, durable, and well-suited for daily use or rugged travel.
  
  

• Spectron 400d UHMWPE / 420d Nylon Ripstop: Our lightest fabric. Combines ultralight strength with a ripstop weave for surprising durability — ideal for those prioritizing weight savings.
  
  

• RX30 X-Pac® (PFC-free, 100% recycled): A technical laminate that’s waterproof, structured, and sustainably made. Great for wet climates or anyone who prefers a stiffer silhouette.
  
  

• 420d High-Tenacity Classic Parapack (exclusive to the Synik): Smooth and slightly glossy, this heritage fabric offers a more structured feel with a clean, refined finish — beloved by long-time fans.
  
  

Note: Not all fabric options may be available at all times. Availability depends on our current production cycle.

Interior Fabrics

Both the Synapse and Synik are lined with thoughtfully chosen interior fabrics that balance lightweight, visibility, and durability:

• 200d Halcyon Ripstop Nylon with UHMWPE (bluesign® and OEKO-TEX® certified): This ultralight fabric features a distinctive ripstop grid reinforced with UHMWPE — the same fiber used in climbing gear and high-performance textiles. It’s incredibly strong for its weight and offers excellent tear resistance, with a subtle sheen that makes it easy to see what’s inside your bag.
  
  

• 210d Cerylon 6,6 Ripstop Nylon (bluesign® certified): Smooth, tightly woven, and slightly more structured than Halcyon. It brings a refined feel to the interior while maintaining a lightweight profile and strong performance.
  
  

Note: Interior fabric availability may vary depending on colorway and production timing.

Volume

Using ASTM Standard Measure Method: 

Synapse 19:

• 19 Liters / 1,160 cubic inches

Synapse 25:

• 25 Liters / 1,526 cubic inches

Synik 22:

• 22 Liters / 1,340 cubic inches

Synik 26:

• 26 Liters / 1,585 cubic inches

Synik 30:

• 30 Liters / 1,830 cubic inches

What’s Included

Synapse:

• 1x Sternum Strap Assembly

• 1x Gatekeeper waist strap

• 1x 8" Snaphook/Snaphook Key Strap

• 1x Pull Du Jour (8-Count-Black)

Synik:

• 1x Sternum Strap Assembly

• 1x Gatekeeper waist strap

• 1x 8" Snaphook/Snaphook Key Strap

• 1x Pull Du Jour (8-Count-Black)

• 1x Internal Frame w/ Aluminum Half-Stay

• 1x pair of Tie-Down Straps

Note: The Guide’s Edition versions will feature Coyote Pull Du Jours and Key Straps.

Price

Synapse 19: 

• $255

Synapse 25:

• $265

Guide’s Edition Synapse 19:

• $280

Synik 22:

• $345

Synik 26:

• $350

Synik 30:

• $355

Guide’s Edition Synik 26:

• $375

Guide’s Edition Synik 30:

• $380

So, which bag is right for you?

It’s really a matter of personal preference. 

Choose the Synapse if:

• You are prioritizing lightweight versatility

• You carry your laptop in a separate sleeve or not at all

• You want something flexible for short hikes

• You don’t need a full clamshell opening

Choose the Synik if:

• You want all the features of the Synapse plus more

• You need a dedicated laptop compartment

• You like clamshell openings for easier packing

• You want more internal structure and support

• You plan to pair it with rolling luggage while traveling

Choose the Guide’s Edition if:

• You want all the features of the Synapse or Synik, with a more elevated, outdoors-inspired design

• You’re drawn to unique material and color combinations

• You like a bag that transitions easily from trail to travel to everyday carry

• You want front and bottom gear attachments 

• You appreciate thoughtful details that stand out over time

Are you team Synapse or team Synik? Let us know which backpack is calling your name in the comments below!