I can't compare but I too love my Tarmac 22". Got it at great discount from Sierra Trading Post a couple years ago - think I paid $80 or $90? My internal compression is different from the current version, but I rarely use it anyway (mine is smaller) I have quite a few Eagle Creek bags - they're my favorite^ For travel with checked bags, I tend to alternate my Briggs & Riley 22" and my EC Tarmac 22". I have a 25" Eagle Creek but rarely use it, and a 19" eagle creek for international carry-on......