Peak Design’s Roller Lite offers more room for less

The Lite Carry-On measures 21.7 x 13.8 x 9 inches and weighs 7 pounds. Its capacity is 38 liters, expanding to 45 liters—up from 34 and 39 liters, respectively, in the Roller Pro. The Lite also adds an integrated TSA-approved lock, which the Pro lacks. Its expansion zipper can make the case feel loose and floppy when open, however, and the reviewer advises against rolling it that way.

A clamshell layout divides the suitcase into two compartments, which the reviewer preferred for separating clothes from other belongings. The Pro’s single main compartment is more convenient for bulky camera equipment. The Lite also drops the Pro’s external pockets and Cord Hook, while retaining the replaceable carbon-fiber handle and adding easily replaced strap handles. A hidden pocket accommodates an Apple AirTag. The reviewer praised the handle’s smooth movement and the case’s easy rolling, but found the top handle too bulky to fit neatly through a backpack’s luggage passthrough.

After a flight attendant gate-checked the bag on a small plane, it returned with a few scuffs and scratches. The reviewer said the hard shell otherwise held up well and found the suitcase easier to repair than the Pro. The Lite Carry-On costs $449.95, compared with $599.95 for the Roller Pro. Peak Design’s other Lite models include the $469.99 Lite Carry-On Plus, measuring 22.5 x 15 x 9 inches, and the $549.95 Lite Trunk, measuring 30 x 16.1 x 13.8 inches. The Carry-On Plus should fit in most overhead compartments; the Trunk is better suited to checked luggage.

The reviewer concluded that the Lite is less distinctive and less purpose-built than the Pro, but offers more room at a lower price and is a favorite suitcase under $500. It is backed by Peak Design’s lifetime warranty.