Birkin 25 vs Birkin 30

A blue Birkin 25 on top of a gray Birkin 30 with the handles facing each other and slightly overlapping.

When it comes to bags as expensive as the Hermes Birkin, you want to ensure you're getting a size you genuinely love, especially if it's your first bag. I buy and sell bags all the time, so over the years, I've had my fair share of Birkins (I went through a time when the Birkin 35 was the only bag I carried, but that's a topic for another day).

My newest addition to my collection is my Bleu Saphir Birkin 25, which I purchased from TheRealReal. I always said the 25 was too small for me. I've said multiple times I would only consider buying one if I was offered it at the store (which would be nearly impossible as I barely go to the Hermes boutique). However, I found a good deal and justified it by selling a few other bags. 

When it arrived, let me tell you, I fell utterly in love with it. The Birkin 30 was previously my go-to size (and I still love it), but the 25 has been creeping up to take the top spot in my collection. These bags can serve different purposes and depends on who you are and what you carry. One is probably better for your lifestyle than the other. So, let's figure out which one is for you.


Birkin 30 Mod Shot


The Birkin 30

Pros: 

  • Handle drop - you can easily fit your hand through the handles AND carry it in the crook of your arm. 

  • Space (obviously) - a Birkin 30 can hold a MacBook Pro 13 inch, albeit a tight fit. 

  • 'The Slouch' - the Birkin 30 I have is in Epsom leather, so I can't relate much to this one. I love a slouchy Birkin, and the 30 is going to give you more slouch than a 25 (as long as it's in a softer leather like Clemence, Swift, or Togo)  

Cons: 

  • Awkward - the 30 can be uncomfortable in specific scenarios. One example is when you want to set the bag on your lap while you're out. The handles come up high and can get in the way. It can be small for an all-day running-around bag but too big for a dinner bag (depending on your preference). 



Birkin 25

Birkin 25 

Pros: 

  • Adorable - in person, this bag is SO tiny. It has to be one of the cutest bags I've ever seen. Even the hardware is itty bitty. 

  • Fits a lot for a little bag - it can easily handle my daily essentials plus some.

Cons:

  • The handle drop is TINY - if you have large hands (like me) or wear a watch (like me), it can be a pain to slide the bag on and off your wrist. This depends on how much you're willing to put up with. 

  • It will make you want more Birkin 25s - I get why everyone has been obsessed with tiny bags over the last few years. I finally get it. However, I'll resist the urge considering the hefty price tag. 


Whichever decision you make, you can't go wrong. And even if you don't love the size you purchased, these bags have incredible resale value, so you can sell and try again. 

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