Is hardside or softside carry-on luggage better?

Across the reviewers we read, hardside polycarbonate shells offer better protection for fragile items, easier wipe-down cleaning, and tend to be lighter than older softside designs, while softside bags expand more easily and offer external pockets for laptops and liquids. For protection and a structured packing experience, hardside wins; for last-minute squeeze-it-in flexibility, softside still has a place.