A side by side look at the large check-in luggage:
Size and Capacity
Quince - Check-In Hard Shell Suitcase
Exterior measurements: 28.7" H x 20.9" W x 12.2" D
Interior measurements: 26.8" x 19.8"
Capacity: 99 L
Weight: 9.9 lbs
Monos - Check-In Large
Exterior measurements: 30" × 21" × 11"
Interior measurements: 28" × 20.5"
Capacity: 99.2 L
Weight: 10.58 lb
Thoughts: While the Monos large luggage is taller and slightly wider and heavier than the Quince luggage, what I find most interesting is that their capacity is about the same at 99 L.
Materials and Durability
Quince - Check-In Hard Shell Suitcase
Lightweight & durable polycarbonate hard shell
Water resistant 75D polyester pongee lining
Japanese-crafted Hinomoto 360° spinner wheels for an ultra smooth ride
YKK zippers
Monos - Check-In Large
Aerospace-grade, water-resistant polycarbonate hard shell made from partially recycled materials
Luxuriously soft, anti-microbial lining, made from 100% recycled polyester
Colour-coordinated YKK reverse coil zippers
Thoughts: I find that the Monos shell feels thinner than Quince. It makes me nervous that one toss from TSA and the shell will crack. When reading through reviews, one of the biggest complaints with Monos is that the shell is easily scratched/scuffed, which is likely similar with Quince since they are both made of a polycarbonate hard shell.
Wheels and Handles
Quince - Check-In Hard Shell Suitcase
Japanese-crafted Hinomoto 360° spinner wheels for an ultra smooth ride
Aluminum telescopic trolley handle with easy-to-hold soft rubber handle
Monos - Check-In Large
High performance 360° spinner wheels
Adjustable telescopic handle with 4 height settings
Thoughts: Both luggage's are equipped with 360° spinner wheels. However, Quince's wheels are larger which enhances stability and ensures a smooth roll. On the other hand, Monos has smaller wheels which helps with maneuverability. As for the handles, Monos offers 4 height settings, while Quince provides 3. When set to the maximum height, both extend to the same length.
Security Features
Quince - Check-In Hard Shell Suitcase
TSA-approved combination lock. Using this Travel Sentry® lock allows your luggage to be opened, inspected, and relocked by security authorities without damage. For more information, visit: www.travelsentry.org
Monos - Check-In Large
TSA-approved combination lock
Thoughts: The main difference here is the location of the lock. On Quince, the lock is at the top and on Monos, the lock is located on the side panel.
Compartments and Organization
Quince - Check-In Hard Shell Suitcase
Interior compression system to maximize space, featuring an 24" x 17.5" pocket for additional storage
Removable laundry bag for dirty clothing
Holds enough for 2+ weeks of outfits
Monos - Check-In Large
Dual Y-shaped compression straps and divider
Includes anti-microbial, silver ion-coated laundry bag and two shoe bags, plus vegan leather luggage tag.
Thoughts: As mentioned above, both luggage have the same capacity at about 99 L. Both have smart organizational designs and compression systems to help you store at least 2 weeks worth of clothing!
Cleaning
Both luggage come with a care kit that includes a white sponge (similar to a magic eraser) which should be used to rub scuffed areas. Monos also provides a luggage tag.
Style and Design
Overall, both luggage are similar in style and design. The major difference here is that Monos has a much wider selection in colors, while Quince only offers the 27" check-in suitcase in tan, blue and black (their 24" has 5 color selections, and their 27'' expandable luggage offers 4 color selections).
Warranty and Return Policy
Quince - Check-In Hard Shell Suitcase
Items may be returned for a full refund or exchange within 365 days of the purchase date, provided the following requirements are met:
All original packaging, including all tags or boxes must be included with the return. Item must be undamaged and unaltered.
Monos - Check-In Large
Monos offers a 100-day trial on all their luggage.
NOTE: You are responsible for paying for shipping if you return (~$40 deducted from your refund)
After 100 days, if any part of your Check-In Large suitcase ever breaks, Monos will fix or replace it – guaranteed.
Monos luggage is made to last, and is backed by a limited lifetime warranty.
Price
Quince - Check-In Hard Shell Suitcase
$199
Monos - Check-In Large
$395
Overall - Which is the Best Travel Suitcase?
If you are looking for a modern, sleek, and functional luggage for a fraction of the cost of the name brand alternatives, then Quince is the clear winner here.
The advantage that Monos has is their limited lifetime warranty and wide color and pattern selection.
More to come....
I have yet to try either luggage on a trip, but will update with a full review in a few months after we make our trip to Japan in April...stay tuned!