After testing the Comete on a few real-world trips, I unpack the pros, cons, and everything in between.
The Delsey Comete doesn’t try to be flashy. Out of the box, it looks like your classic hardside spinner—clean lines, subtle texturing, and a soft matte finish that resists fingerprints better than expected. I opted for the large checked version in deep navy, and it gave off a subtle air of elegance without screaming “luxury.”
What stood out right away was the scratch-resistant twill texture and the lightweight feel. At just under 10 lbs for the checked size, it was easy to maneuver even fully packed. I’ve tested my share of entry-level hard cases, and many fall into the trap of feeling hollow or “plasticky.” The Comete doesn’t. It doesn’t scream luxury either, but for its price point, it impresses.
Build & Materials: Budget Tough, Mostly
The Comete shell is a blend of ABS and polycarbonate. That combo makes it more affordable than pure polycarbonate options like the Delsey Châtelet or Samsonite Freeform, but slightly less impact-resistant. However, that’s the trade-off you expect at this tier.
Key Specs:
- ABS/polycarbonate hardshell
- Scratch-resistant textured exterior
- Double spinner wheels
- Interlocking zippers (lock not included)
- 3 grab handles (top, side, bottom)
- 2″ expandable zipper section
In hand, the case felt more robust than other budget hardcases I’ve used. The zippers are chunky and smooth, and the handles feel sturdy enough. One area of concern, though, is the expansion area. On my second trip, the interior fabric near the expanding zipper started to separate slightly—not torn, but something to watch. It could be due to packing too aggressively, but this is where reinforced stitching would’ve added peace of mind.
Another thing I noticed was the corner protection—or rather, the lack of it. While the twill texture hides scuffs well, one rough baggage handling experience could be all it takes to put a visible dent into the shell. You’ll want to handle with a bit more care than, say, a Rimowa or even a higher-end Delsey.
Interior & Packing: Simplicity Wins
Inside, the Comete keeps things refreshingly simple. It avoids the mistake many budget spinners make: trying to cram in too many compartments or gimmicky organizers that ultimately waste space.
Interior Features:
- Two full compartments
- One with a mesh divider and zipper
- One with adjustable tie-down straps
There aren’t extra bells and whistles, but that might be a plus. Unlike other models with bulky built-in pockets I never use (looking at you, old Delsey models), the Comete keeps it basic and gives you full access to all interior space. I was able to pack for a 6-day work trip with clothes, two pairs of shoes, toiletries, and my tech gear. Everything stayed secure and organized, even with the bag tipped on its side.
The zippered mesh divider is handy when you want to separate clean and used clothing or keep your dress shirts from tangling with bulkier items. The elastic tie-down straps do a decent job, though they could’ve been slightly wider for better hold.
Rolling & Handling: Surprisingly Smooth
The double spinner wheels were a standout feature. They rolled easily through two airports, a hotel lobby, and even down some cobbled sidewalks. They’re smooth, quiet, and handle weight surprisingly well. While I’ve had spinners in this price range struggle with consistent rolling or wobble under full loads, the Comete felt composed.
The telescopic handle locks securely and extends with ease. There is a slight flex at full extension, which isn’t uncommon at this price point. Still, it never felt like it would fail. A small upgrade here, such as a reinforced aluminum handle or a third locking position, would elevate the handling experience significantly.
The three built-in carry handles—top, side, and bottom—make a big difference when you’re lifting a fully packed suitcase into a car trunk or off the baggage carousel. They’re well-padded and don’t dig into your hand like some cheaper bags I’ve tried in the past.
Security: Basic But Sufficient
The Comete doesn’t include a built-in lock but features interlocking zippers compatible with any TSA-approved padlock. It’s not as sophisticated as Delsey’s SECURITECH system, but it’s better than nothing. I used a simple cable lock and didn’t have any issues. The zippers didn’t separate or pop open under pressure, which is always reassuring.
Real-World Feedback: What Travelers Are Saying
User experiences echo much of what I found. Here are some highlights:
- “Great suitcase, easy to roll, and roomy enough for multi-day trips.” Many users praised its size-to-weight ratio and storage flexibility.
- “Still rolling smooth after years of use.” Several reviews mention long-term durability for the price.
- “Disappointed in the material. Dented easily.” A common thread among the negative reviews is that the shell doesn’t withstand airline abuse as well as more premium models.
- “Feels more solid than bargain brands.” The extra thickness of the shell and upgraded texture stood out to many users.
One standout review even compared the Comete favorably to luggage that had served them well for 15 years. That level of loyalty speaks volumes.
What Could Be Better
- Durability concerns: A handful of users reported dents and fabric tears after a single trip
- Material feel: Some say the shell feels thin or more prone to compression than higher-end brands
- Handle build: The telescopic handle may wobble slightly when fully extended
- No integrated lock: You’ll need to buy a separate TSA padlock
For frequent international travelers who check bags often, you might consider these limitations. But if you’re using it for short domestic flights, road trips, or occasional business travel, these tradeoffs may not matter much.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Delsey Comete | Delsey Châtelet Air 2.0 | Samsonite Centric 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shell Material | ABS/Polycarbonate | Virgin Polycarbonate | Brushed Polycarbonate |
| Expansion | Yes (2″) | No | Yes |
| Built-in Lock | No | Yes (SECURITECH + TSA) | Yes (TSA) |
| Spinner Wheels | Double Spinner | Dual-Density Spinner | Oversized Spinner |
| Interior Divider | Yes | Yes (Mesh + Buckles) | Yes |
| Weight (Large Checked) | ~10 lbs | ~12.5 lbs | ~10.8 lbs |
| Warranty | 3-Year Limited | 2-Year Limited | 10-Year Limited |
| Price Range | $ | $$$ | $$ |
Final Verdict: Solid Value with Real-World Tradeoffs
The Delsey Comete isn’t trying to be a high-end luxury bag, and that’s okay. For under $100 (and sometimes less if you grab an Amazon Warehouse deal), you get:
- Durable rolling
- A practical interior
- Solid styling
- Lightweight design with decent packing space
This is a suitcase that fits right in the sweet spot for budget-conscious travelers. If you need a case that can handle occasional trips with ease, look good doing it, and not stress your wallet—this one delivers.
However, if you travel frequently or plan to check this bag often, you may want to consider the limitations in material strength and long-term durability.
Best for: Occasional travelers, road trippers, weekend getaways, or anyone looking for a reliable, affordable spinner that looks good and performs better than its price suggests.
Not ideal for: Frequent flyers, international check-in regulars, or travelers who expect maximum durability from rough baggage handling.
Overall Rating: 4.1/5
Have a Comete of your own? Let me know how it’s held up after a few trips. Real-world stories always help others decide what’s right for them.
Delsey Comete Review: Affordable Durability or Just Another Budget Spinner?