Silence. That's what I heard emanating from the wheels as I strolled through LAS last week. And when I walked through DTW, the same outcome. Silence. Previously, I'd announce my presence via the noisy wheels coming from my carry-on, so this was the biggest difference noted. Other advantages:
1) the compartments inside performed quite well in keeping a variety of items in one place
2) the telescopic handle lifts & locks into place very well
3) turns are made effortlessly
4) moves very easily and is lighter than expected
5) the zippers move and secure better than I previously experienced
Disadvantages:
1) the handles are flushed very closely to the body of the carry-on and should have more travel as there is little room to grasp the handles. By no means a deal breaker, and I suspect with more use there'll be some inevitable give.
This is my first Tumi luggage purchase and I will look to buy additional pieces as needed. An outstanding product.