Louis Vuitton Speedy 35 vs. 40: Which size is right for you?

The Louis Vuitton Speedy 35 and Speedy 40 look nearly identical, but the choice between them comes down to dimensions and primary use. The Speedy 35 (13.4" length) is a spacious daily handbag perfect for essentials plus a bit more, while the Speedy 40 (15.7" length) serves as a true carry-all bag, ideal for travel, work, or anyone needing maximum capacity.

Here’s everything you need to know to decide between these two iconic Louis Vuitton sizes.

Louis Vuitton Speedy 35

The Speedy 35 is an iconic, medium-sized handbag that expertly balances generous capacity with a manageable silhouette for daily use. It's the go-to size for those who need to carry more than just the essentials - like a small tablet, water bottle, and cosmetics pouch - without committing to the bulk of a travel bag. This makes it a highly versatile piece in any luxury collection.

• What it is: A timeless, structured handbag with a rounded shape, originally introduced in the 1930s. It’s a larger everyday-use size.
• Key features: Measures approximately 13.4" L x 9.8" H x 7.7" W. Features a double-zip closure, rolled leather top handles, and an interior slip pocket for small items.
• Price: Approximately $1,580, varies by material.
• Materials/Construction: Typically crafted from durable Monogram or Damier coated canvas with natural cowhide leather trim and gold-tone brass hardware.
• Pros: Spacious enough for daily items plus extras. Classic, proportional look that isn't overwhelming. Lighter than the 40 when filled. Versatile for both casual and professional settings.
• Cons: Can feel bulky if you prefer a compact handbag. May not accommodate larger laptops or work files. Tends to lose its shape when not full.

This size works perfectly for those seeking a sophisticated and roomy daily bag that can handle everything from work commutes to weekend errands.

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Louis Vuitton Speedy 40

As the largest classic size in the Speedy family, the Speedy 40 is a true carry-all designed for those who need serious storage. Its substantial size makes it an excellent choice for an overnight bag, a personal travel item, or for professionals who carry documents, a small laptop, and personal items. It bridges the gap between a large handbag and a small duffle.

• What it is: The largest Speedy handbag, offering maximum capacity for travel, work, or as a weekender bag.
• Key features: Measures approximately 15.7" L x 10.2" H x 8.3" W. Shares the same double-zip closure, leather handles, and interior pocket as the 35.
• Price: Approximately $1,620, varying slightly based on the chosen material.
• Materials/Construction: Constructed from the brand's signature high-quality coated canvas and leather with durable brass hardware. The quality is identical to other sizes.
• Pros: Massive interior capacity fits tablets, files, and even a change of clothes. Perfect for use as a travel personal item. Makes a bold, statement-making impression. Minimal price increase for significantly more space.
• Cons: Can be quite heavy and cumbersome when fully packed. The large size can overwhelm smaller body frames. Its scale often makes it look more like luggage than an everyday handbag.

It’s the ideal selection for travelers, busy professionals, or anyone who believes you can never have too much space in your bag.

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Louis Vuitton Speedy 35 vs. Louis Vuitton Speedy 40 Comparison

Size & Capacity

The most important difference is size. The Speedy 40 is just over two inches longer and provides roughly 20% more interior volume than the Speedy 35. In practical terms, this means the Speedy 35 comfortably holds your wallet, keys, phone, a large cosmetics bag, a water bottle, and a small tablet or book.

The Speedy 40 can hold all of that plus a 13" laptop, a folder of documents, a sweater, or even a pair of shoes. It truly lives up to its heritage as a bag inspired by travel. For daily use, the Speedy 35 is more than sufficient for most, but if you consistently find yourself needing just a little more room, the 40 delivers.

Design & Aesthetics

While both sizes share the same iconic design, their proportions create different visual effects. The Speedy 35 looks like a large, classic handbag. Its dimensions feel balanced and intentional for everyday carry, pairing nicely with a wide range of outfits without overpowering your look.

The Speedy 40, because of its scale, often reads as a piece of chic, compact luggage or a weekender bag. It has a more substantial presence and makes a bigger statement. On a petite frame, the 40 can look oversized, while on a taller person, it can appear perfectly proportional as a carry-all.

Price & Value

The price difference between the two sizes is typically less than $50, making it one of the smallest price gaps in the luxury world for a noticeable size increase. From a value perspective, the Speedy 40 offers more space for your money if capacity is your priority. However, the best value is the bag you will actually use and enjoy. If the 40’s size will cause it to sit in your closet except for trips, the Speedy 35 is the more valuable purchase for daily purposes.

Comfort & Usability

Both bags are designed to be carried by hand or in the crook of the elbow. The rolled leather handles are comfortable on both. However, the Speedy 40 becomes significantly heavier when packed, which can be a real consideration during a long day of travel or commuting. The Speedy 35 is more of a grab-and-go option that won't weigh you down as much.

While a shoulder strap (bandoulière) can be purchased separately to add to both bags, the sheer weight of a full Speedy 40 can make shoulder-carrying uncomfortable for extended periods.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both bags are iconic and built to last, but they serve different lifestyles.

Choose the Speedy 35 if:

• You're looking for a spacious, sophisticated bag for daily use.
• You want to carry essentials plus items like a tablet, water bottle, and makeup pouch.
• You prefer a bag that feels like a classic "handbag" rather than luggage.
• You have a small-to-average frame and want a bag with balanced proportions.

Choose the Speedy 40 if:

• You primarily need a bag for travel, as a weekender, or as a gym bag.
• You commute with a laptop, work binders, or even a change of clothes.
• You love a large, statement-making bag and don't mind the extra weight.
• You want the maximum possible capacity for a minimal price increase.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the main difference between the Speedy 35 and 40?

The primary difference is size and carrying capacity. The Speedy 35 measures 13.4 inches in length and is ideal for daily use, while the Speedy 40 is 15.7 inches long, designed for travel, work, or as a weekender bag with maximum space.

Can the Speedy 35 or 40 fit a laptop?

The Speedy 40 can comfortably fit a tablet or small laptop up to 13 inches. The Speedy 35 can generally fit a tablet like an iPad but is too small for most laptops.

Which size is better for everyday use?

For most people, the Speedy 35 is the better choice for everyday use. It offers plenty of room for daily necessities without being overly bulky or heavy in the way the Speedy 40 can be when filled.

Is the Speedy 40 too big for everyday?

This depends on your needs and personal style. If you carry many items daily - like a mother, student, or busy professional - it can be perfect. For others who prefer a lighter carry experience, it might feel too much like luggage for simple errands.

Which size is better for travel?

The Speedy 40 is unquestionably better for travel. Its generous size makes it a perfect personal carry-on item for flights or an overnight bag for short trips.

Does the price difference justify the bigger size?

Yes. The price difference is minimal (often under $50), so if you need the extra storage, the Speedy 40 offers excellent value in terms of cost per volume.

How do you carry the Speedy 35 and 40?

Both are primarily designed as top-handle bags, meant to be carried by hand or in the crook of your arm. Bandoulière (strap) versions are also available if you prefer shoulder or crossbody wear, but remember a full Speedy 40 can get very heavy.

Are the Louis Vuitton Speedy 35 and 40 still in style?

Absolutely. The Louis Vuitton Speedy is a timeless design that has remained a symbol of style for over 90 years. Both sizes are considered classics and are a permanent fixture in the world of luxury fashion.