MVST vs Level8 Aluminum Travel Luggage Review
I am a huge fan of aluminum luggage, especially compared to the other luggage out there. Aluminum luggage brings that old-school travel beauty and also the durability I need to travel the world, but finding a piece of aluminum luggage that fits your specific needs and specific travel style can be quite challenging.
During our search, we found two luggage companies that both fall into the under $500 price range and have similar features. We’ll consider the MVST Trek, MVST Space , and the Level8 Gibraltar Carry-On. What are the differences between these and which of these is a better fit for you?
Pros and Cons
MVST Space
Pros:
Lightest weight at 9.4lbs
Comes with a luggage tag and dust cover
Zipper closure
Ultra smooth 360 degree wheels
Aluminum shell
Multiple interior mesh pockets with zippers
Slow release handles
Reinforced corners
Anti-microbial fabric
Cons:
Latches and handles scratch easily
Non-quick-release wheels
Level8 Gibraltar
Pros:
Has the most capacity at 36L
Dual TSA Approved locks
Comes with a suitcase cover protector, luggage tag, and a 4-piece organizer bag set
Ultra quiet 360 degree wheels
Aluminum shell
Rubberized Handle
Slow release handles
Riveted corner reinforcement
Slightly sturdier trolly handle
Best value (With all add-ons included.)
Cons:
The heaviest weighing 10lbs
Only one interior mesh pocket
Slightly more expensive
Scratches will be more apparent
Non-quick-release wheels
MVST Trek
Pros:
Easily removable wheels
Dual TSA-approved locks
Comes with a luggage tag and dust cover
Ultra smooth 360 degree wheels
Aluminum shell
Two interior mesh pockets with zippers
Shiny and textured design
Slow release handles
Anti-microbial fabric
Reinforced Corners
Cons:
The lowest interior capacity
Handles scratch easily
Specifications
MVST Trek
Exterior measurements 21.7” x 14.8” x 8.7”
Capacity 34 L
Weight 9.6 lbs
Level8 Gibraltar
Exterior measurements 22” x 15” x 8.4”
Capacity 36L
Weight 10 lbs
MVST Space
Exterior measurements 22” x 14.8” x 8.7”
Capacity 35 L
Weight 9.4 lbs
MVST Trek
Personally, this is my favorite aesthetically. It has a certain rugged look to it that the MVST Space and the Level8 do not, it is also one of the cases where scratches will be less visible due to its texture. I have been using my Trek carry-on for a little over 4 years now and although it does have scratches and small dents it is still holding up very well, those are evidence of a well-traveled suitcase.
If the wheels on your suitcase are also a decision-making factor the MVST Trek is the only one that offers easily removable and exchangable wheels. For a more in-depth review of the MVST Trek, you can click here to read the full review.
Overall if you are looking for a handsome-looking carry-on, that can withstand rough handling, and rough roads this will be a perfect choice
Level8 Gibraltar
Compared to the MVST Trek and the MVST Space the Level8 Gibraltar takes its place as best in build quality.
Level8 did a great job with its materials and functionality. It feels the most expensive and it’s only a few dollars more than the MVST. When it comes to value this is the one you will get the most out of. The 4-piece organizer bag set it comes with is worth those extra dollars. Even their luggage tag feels better quality! Out of the three, this is the one that offers only two colors. Silver and grey.
What we like most about this luggage is its interior capacity. If you find yourself constantly pushing the limits of what you can fit into a carry-on you should definitely consider this case over the other two. It’s a very squared carry-on which allows for better use of those corners when packing, however, if you aren’t into the squared look maybe this wouldn’t be the best option for you.
The design of the Level8 Gibraltar is very sleek and elegant but its smooth texture is more likely to display scratches and dents. If you are looking for an in-depth review of the Level8 Gibraltar before making your decision check out our full review by clicking here.
MVST Space
This one is a great mix between the MVST Trek and the Level8 Gibraltar, its texture is a mixture of the sleek finish of the Gibraltar and an interesting texture like the Trek. It has personality while also looking mature and classy.
We’ve also had this one for a while and it too has some scratches. Just like the Level8 Gibraltar the MVST Space’s smooth texture will allow for scratches and dents to be more visible.
Out of the three carry-ons, this is the only one that has a one-lock combination, it still provides protection and security to your valuables but if you are more into the dual lock this might not be the one for you.
My favorite feature of the MVST Space is the interior, both the MVST carry-ons have anti-microbial fabric which is very nice especially if you weren’t able to wash clothes before your trip back home.
This is perfect for travelers who like to divide their belongings and have easier access to certain items, you won’t have to reach down to the bottom of the suitcase or pull out items to find the one thing you are looking for. I also really like the interior pocketed panel with a zipper, I love that you're able to keep belongings such as shoes zipped away from other valuables and clothes you don’t want getting dirty.
If you want a more in-depth review of the MVST Space check out our full review by clicking here.
Should I Buy MVST or Level8?
When comparing these three aluminum suitcases we’ve found them all to be very well designed and include many similar features. In short, we feel confident to recommend all three so pick the one you feel looks the best and also take into consideration our pros and cons lists and summaries for each one.
All three Aluminum Carry-Ons cases are some of the best designs we found within the same price range which is between $300-$500. For me, the MVST Trek is my favorite design look, the MVST Space is my favorite interior and the Level8 is my favorite regarding capacity and build quality.
The question is what are your needs and what are you looking for in a Carry-On?
Although they all have similar features their styles are unique to each brand. We’ve had good experiences ordering from both companies and both of their customer service teams reach back out fairly quickly. Level8’s customer service is the winner, however.
As of the time of writing this post, Level8 Gibraltar has a 4.6-star review on their website with 66 reviews total and Amazon has a 4.5-star review with 248 global ratings. MVST Space has a 5-star review on its website with 3 reviews. MVST Trek has a 5-star review on its website with 47 reviews.
One thing I might point out is their return policy, Level8 has a seven-day return policy as opposed to MVST’s 60-day return policy, something to keep in mind.
Considering all of these points we truly think deciding between these aluminum cases comes down to aesthetics, and what features are most important to you.
If you found this review helpful and are set on buying some MVST Luggage OR Level 8 Luggage. Please consider using our affiliate link. It doesn’t cost you anything and it helps us out greatly. Plus you’ll get to save some hard-earned cash!
