Patagonia Black Hole Cube 3L vs REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set

Patagonia Black Hole Cubes (V2) are durable, well-built packing solutions made from recycled materials with a focus on sustainability. Reviewers praised their sturdiness and internal organization, particularly the mesh pocket in the 3L cube. The cubes are not lightweight, weighing 3.9 oz for the 3L size, and lack compression features. While they're ideal for travelers seeking durability and ethical manufacturing, those prioritizing packability or space-saving features may want to consider alternatives. The 3L cube is best suited for organizing small items like socks, underwear, and accessories.

The REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set offers significant storage capacity through its accordion-style compression feature, allowing users to pack twice as much as standard cubes. Wirecutter praised the cubes for their ability to hold more items while maintaining wrinkle-free clothing, though they noted the compression zippers can be difficult to operate and have broken on some units. Pack Hacker also reported issues with the compression zipper failing early in use. The cubes are made of ripstop nylon and come with REI's one-year satisfaction guarantee. Best suited for overpackers seeking maximum space efficiency, but those prioritizing durability may want to consider alternatives.