Kata Orbit 110 And 130 DL Camera Bag Review

Features
Handling and Performance
Verdict
Specification


Kata Orbit-130 DL

There are three models in the Kata Orbit range, the 110, 120 and 130 DL, designed to hold a DSLR, laptop and other personal belongings. On test here are the 110 and 130 models, the main differences being the 130 holds a DSLR with 70-200mm f/2.8 lens, 2 additional lenses and flash, where as the 110 fits a small DSLR with lens attached, 1 additional lens and flash. Additionally the 130 holds up to a 17 inch laptop and the 110 holds a 13 inch laptop.


Kata Orbit-130 DL

Kata Orbit 110 And 130 DL Camera Bag Features

• Can be converted from a shoulder bag to a messenger bag
• Holds camera gear, laptop and personal belongings
• Front pocket for phone, wallet, travel documents etc.
• Can be converted into an everyday bag by removing padded inserts
• Compatible with the Kata Insertrolley (KT VG-DTS, sold separately)
• Designed to comply with on board luggage regulations
• Upgrade the strap to the GSS strap (KT VG-604-DH)

Kata Orbit-130 DL

Kata Orbit-110 DL

Kata Orbit 110 And 130 DL Camera Bag Handling and Performance

The only difference between the two bags is their size, with the 130 easily holding a DSLR with a 70-200mm f/2.8 lens, with interchangeable dividers so you can fit your spare lenses around. It is really strange that the holder for your camera comes out, as this leaves a lot of space around it in the bag which is pretty unusable. This does mean it has plenty of cushioning to help protect your kit and removing the holder means it can be used as an everyday bag as well. The inside of the back also holds your laptop/notebook/iPad.  The front flap is secured in place by two clips and velcro.

The bag caters for those who either like to wear the bag on their should or over their neck and on the opposite shoulder. This is changed by unzipping at the sides and flipping the shoulder strap around, creating a better angle for the strap so it can comfortably fit around your neck. It seems a little strange at first, but when you get used to it, the bag feels really comfortable. For extra support you can connect the second strap under your shoulder.

The pocket for your mobile phone, accessories etc. is on the outside of the bag, but covered by the main flap. The flap for this pocket is secured by velcro, meaning pickpockets could possibly find their way into your valuables without you noticing. On the back of the bag is zipped area which is ideal for keeping books, magazines or travel documents.

The strap is strong but there isn't a padded area but you can buy a Kata Gecko Shoulder Strap to make it more comfortable. If you get fed up of it on your shoulder, there is another smaller handle, although this is only really useful for picking the bag up and moving it around, rather than for carrying. Also available is the Kata Insertrolley which allows you to carry the bag, as well as others, on wheels.

Value for money

The Kata Orbit 110 is available for £89.95 and 130 for £119.95. There are a number of shoulder bags of varying sizes available and ones to consider which will hold your DSLR and laptop are the LowePro CompuDay Photo 150 at £34.95, Lowepro Event Messenger 250 at £49.95, Vanguard UP-Rise 38 at £79.00, Manfrotto Unica V Messenger at £74.95 and Tamrac 3447 Rally 7 at £59.00. These examples are the top of each of the ranges, with lower priced ones also available. Have a look at our complete guide to camera bags for more ideas of what's available.

Kata Orbit 110 And 130 DL Camera Bag Verdict

The Kata Orbit bags excel in offering protection to your camera gear, ideal if you are flying abroad as you can also purchase the Insertrolley to pull it about. There seems to be a lot of wasted space inside the bag though, and for the price being charged for all the models, you'd expect it to be a little better designed.

Kata Orbit 110 And 130 DL Camera Bag Pros

Offer plenty of protection for your kit
Converts to fit on or over your shoulder comfortably
Can be carried on a trolley
Internal sections come out it can be used as an everyday bag

Kata Orbit 110 And 130 DL Camera Bag Cons

Expensive
A lot of internal space wasted
Doesn't come with a padded strap

		Kata Orbit-130 DL		Kata Orbit-110 DL
FEATURES
HANDLING
PERFORMANCE
VALUE FOR MONEY
OVERALL

Kata Orbit 130-DL Specifications

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Kata Orbit 110-DL Specifications

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