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Pelican cases are renowned for providing durable, lightweight protection for sensitive equipment and materials. With their superior waterproofing, dustproofing, and shockproofing capabilities, These cases are an obvious choice for those looking for reliable protection for their valuable items.
Pelican cases are awesome. Personally speaking, I’ve always used them. But the price tag is quite high.
However, I’ve identified several other options on the market that offer comparable protection at a lower cost. This article will examine some of the best alternatives to Pelican cases, including Nanuk Hard Cases, Seahorse SH Series Cases, Eylar hard cases, Plano All Weather Cases, Roadie Cases, and more.
Save time and money by exploring the features and benefits of each of these 8 Pelican case alternatives,
Top 3 Pelican Case Alternatives
Nanuk 935
Seahorse 920
Eylar Hard Case
Nanuk Hard Cases
Nanuk Hard Cases provide unparalleled protection for sensitive items, surpassing even the sturdiest of expectations. Crafted from the finest materials, these cases are designed to provide maximum protection and durability with nanuk construction that is lightweight yet strong.
With a variety of sizes and colors, Nanuk Hard Cases are the perfect solution for anyone looking for a reliable hard-shell case that will keep their items safe and secure.
The durable construction of Nanuk Hard Cases ensures that they will stand up to the toughest of environments and provide long lasting protection for any item. Nanuk Hard Cases are the perfect choice for those seeking a reliable and durable case to protect their items.
This makes them an ideal option for those seeking a reliable alternative to a Pelican case. But, in my opinion, the Nanuk 935 Case is one of the best options available.
1. Nanuk 935 Case
The Nanuk 935 hard case offers impressive protection compared to Pelican. With padlock holes, lid foam, steel hardware, lid foam, cubed foam, and the Powerclaw latching system, it’s become one of Pelican’s top competitors.
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Nanuk 935 Information
Before performing this roundup, I had no idea that Nunuk even existed; this brand has been flying under the radar for quite some time now. However, the company’s reviews show that it’s one of the most serious competitors to Pelican cases.
The Down-Low on 935
The 935 case might not be the largest case available; however, it;’s one of the most unique and customizable options on the market.
Nanuk offers six color options; this isn’t something you see with all manufacturers.
The company also has a massive line of protective cases. Whether you need to protect video cameras, laptops, drones, outdoor gear, DSLR cameras, or something else, you’ll find a Nanuk protective case that offers more than enough protection.
If you’ve ever seen the Pelican 1510 case, the 935 offers even more space. The few additional inches make a world of difference.
Latch
The latches of the 935 deserve some recognition. These offer a definitive snap that ensure everything inside is secure.
Compared to the Pelican hardware latch, you’ll notice that these latches feel just as sturdy, if not even more so.
And you’ll never need to worry about a loose latch; your case will remain closed throughout your flight.
Wheels
Nanuk’s 935 case includes wheels that are a bit larger than the ones featured on Pelican cases. This isn’t a bad thing though; in fact, the Nanuk case may roll even better than the Pelican options.
Security
Nanuk offers improved security with its padlock integration. This goes past what the Pelican case offers.
The Pelican 1510 case includes a stainless steel crimp that’s locked to the plastic. This is an issue with the security.
However, Nunuk’s 935 case addresses this problem. The company includes stainless steel flanges that allow a padlock shackle, which makes this one of the best Pelican alternatives on the market today.
2. Seahorse 920 Case
Seahorse cases offer a premium option to protect your gear. The quality and value are apparent, however, they’re on the pricier side of the spectrum. Still, they remain one of the top Pelican case competitors.
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Seahorse 920 Information
Seahorse has a variety of options and sizes; you’ll find sizes including but not limited to micro, small, medium, and large. This company also produces pre-made designs to protect photographers’ gear.
Seahorse Micro and Small Cases
The Micro case option is available for phones, tablets, and laptops. You’ll find that some contain form while others do not.
For phones and tablets, the cases include a Carabiner loop. This makes it easy to attach your device to backpacks and bags.
Keep in mind that Seahorse’s line of small cases is similar to micro cases. These cases go beyond what’s expected in regards to protection, meaning they’re more of a professional case rather than something someone might use to protect a Macbook.
Seahorse Large Hard Cases
This company produces an impressive line of large hard cases. These cases include the 830, 920, 1220, and 1530, which each offers their own use case.
If you’re a filmmaker, Seahorse also offers plenty of options. Out of their entire line, we like the 920. But there are plenty of other Seahorse choices.
But how does it compare to Pelican?
Overall, Seahorse does the hard case treatment right. Whether you’re working with tech gear or videographer gear, these cases are comparable quality to Pelican.
If you have anything extremely valuable to protect, the Seahorse 920 will provide enough value to make up for the price point.
The wheels glide and the case is robust. You’ll also notice that the case has a retractable handle comparable to Pelican.
3. Elyar XL Hard Case
The Elyar protective roller camera hard case offers excellent water and shock resistance. With comparable strength to the Pelican cases and a reasonable price point, Eylar is an option worth considering.
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Even though we didn’t run the Eylar case over with an 18-wheeler, it’s among the strongest options available. While the plastic outer case isn’t as thick as a traditional Pelican case, it will work for the majority of uses.
You’ll find this hard case offers pluck-able foam that allows you to use it to protect any gear you have. Just make sure to trace your gear spaces before you begin removing the foam.
4. SKB iSeries Cases
SKB Cases offer impressive waterproofing with ultra high-strength polypropylene copolymer resin protection. It’s corrosive resistant and protects against impact damage with a continuous molded-in hinge.
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SKB iSeries Waterproof Cases
SKB iSeries Waterproof Cases provide users with a selection of high-quality protective solutions that can be utilized in a wide range of environments. These cases are designed to be airtight, dustproof, and waterproof, with various models offering IP67, IP68, and MIL-STD-810G ratings.
Their watertight seals are designed for maximum protection in any environment.
In addition, the cases feature a variety of padding options and customizable foam inserts to ensure the contents are securely held in place. These features make the SKB iSeries Waterproof Cases ideal for protecting sensitive equipment from the elements.
With their reliable protection and durability, these cases are a great alternative to the traditional Pelican Case. As such, they provide users with a cost-effective and reliable way to protect their goods.
5. Monocase
The Elyar protective roller camera hard case offers excellent water and shock resistance. With comparable strength to the Pelican cases and a reasonable price point, Eylar is an option worth considering.
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6. Condition 1
Condition 1 cases are designed for durability and protection, These are one of the best USA-made, shockproof, and crushproof trunk cases on the market today. Crafted from tough polypropylene copolymer, it’s virtually indestructible. Stackable with grooves, it’s airtight, watertight up to 3 feet, and airline-friendly.
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7. DCB Hard Case
DCB hard cases protect equipment with a waterproof, dustproof, and rust-proof case. Sturdy construction with reinforced plastic, shock-proof latches, and a pressure valve optimize its protection capabilities.
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8. MEIJIA Cases
MEIJIA cases offer a customizable fit foam insert and with its IP67 waterproof rating, your valuables stay dry, whether in rain or at sea. The high-quality pressure valve releases air pressure while keeping water out. Its durable construction guarantees long-lasting use.
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Other Pelican Case Alternatives
OtterBox Defender Series Cases
OtterBox Defender Series Cases offer rugged and reliable protection, primarily for mobile devices, providing superior durability and strength.
These cases feature a multi-layer design with a rugged outer shell that is shock-resistant and a built-in screen protector to keep the device safe from scratches.
The OtterBox Defender Series Cases also have a built-in port cover that keeps dust and dirt out, and a two-piece inner shell that absorbs impact energy and disperses it away from the device.
Additionally, the cases have a reinforced corner design and an ergonomic grip that makes them easy to carry and comfortable to use.
With their superior durability and strength, the OtterBox Defender Series Cases are the perfect solution for protecting any mobile device.
As the next step in exploring alternatives, Peli Air Cases offer a lightweight and impact-resistant option.
Peli Air Cases
Offering a lightweight and impact-resistant option, Peli Air Cases are like a feather in a storm, providing users with reliable protection.
They feature a high-impact, lightweight HPX2 resin construction that has been tested for durability and impact protection, making them the ideal choice for those who need to transport their delicate items.
The cases come with an automatic pressure equalization valve, a triple-layer soft-grip handle, and an o-ring seal for water resistance. They also include a comfortable shoulder strap for easy transport.
With their many features, Peli Air Cases are a great alternative to Pelican Cases for anyone looking for a reliable and lightweight case for their precious items.
B&W Outdoor Cases
Boasting superior strength and impact resistance, B&W Outdoor Cases provide reliable protection for delicate items during transport.
These crushproof cases and weatherproof cases are designed to protect your gear from the elements, including dust, water, and shock.
With features such as adjustable pressure valves, ABS plastic construction, and waterproof seals, these cases are ideal for any outdoor activity.
Whether you are traveling by air, land, or sea, these cases will keep your items safe and secure in any environment.
Furthermore, a rubberized handle and heavy-duty latches ensure easy transport and secure closure.
With its rugged design and versatile features, B&W Outdoor Cases offer a reliable solution for any outdoor enthusiast.
Plano All Weather Cases
Built to provide maximum protection for the equipment in a range of outdoor conditions, Plano All Weather Cases offer a reliable solution.
Each case is designed with an airtight O-ring seal and waterproof ratings up to 3 feet for 30 minutes, making them an excellent choice for boaters, anglers, hunters, and anyone else who may be exposed to the elements.
The cases also feature impact-resistant construction, making them ideal for gear that may experience bumps and jolts while in transit.
In addition, the cases come in a variety of sizes and colors to suit any user’s needs.
All these features make Plano All Weather Cases a great alternative to Pelican Cases for anyone seeking a durable waterproof product.
Roadie Cases
Offering an excellent combination of durability and waterproof protection, Roadie Cases provide a reliable solution for those looking to safeguard their equipment from the harshness of the elements, with the adage ‘better safe than sorry’ in mind.
These cases are a great choice for those looking for DIY solutions, as they come with rugged durability to ensure that your items remain safe and secure in any environment.
The cases are also lightweight, making them easy to carry and transport, while also providing ample storage for all your items.
With the strong latch and locking system, you can be sure that your items will stay safe and secure, no matter where your travels take you.
History of Pelican Cases
In 1976, the story of Pelican’s success began with a simple yet ingenious creation by scuba enthusiast Dave Parker. In his Torrance, CA garage, Dave fashioned a safety tool using a hockey stick handle wrapped with a hundred feet of twine and a metal weight, which he called the “Pelican Float.” This innovative gadget was designed to mark locations for divers by bobbing on the water’s surface. Dave’s strong belief in its life-saving potential proved to be true.
Driven by the desire to expand his vision further, Dave set his sights on designing a superior first-aid kit specifically tailored for divers. The result was a rugged and durable case that ensured the contents stored inside remained safe from water and dust. Notably, the divers loved the product so much that they began repurposing the cases to protect other valuables, making it a big hit beyond its initial purpose.
From these humble beginnings, Pelican emerged as a leading force in designing and manufacturing high-performance protective cases, temperature-controlled packaging, and advanced portable lighting systems. Throughout the journey, Pelican has remained committed to Dave’s vision: “Protecting All That You Value.” This dedication to quality has resonated with diverse users, including police, firefighters, military personnel, photographers, and anyone else who relies on Pelican products to safeguard their gear and lives.
Over the years, Pelican has amassed countless stories of survival and heroic efforts, with its products enduring rough treatment—getting scuffed up, run over, kicked, thrown, submerged, and dropped—all in a day’s work. While the company has expanded into various new areas, its benchmark for success remains unchanged: a product either fulfills its purpose or does not bear the Pelican name.
Despite its global reach and success, Pelican remains rooted in Torrance, where it operates within a vast 200,000 square feet of manufacturing and office space. Today, Pelican has grown into a global enterprise with six manufacturing facilities, 23 international sales offices, and multiple advanced case centers, network stations, and service centers across the world. This remarkable growth can be attributed to global expansion, strategic acquisitions, and the introduction of innovative new products.
With more than 40 years of experience, Pelican wholeheartedly embraces the calling and duty it has upheld since its inception. The company proudly claims to build the best products in the world, yet recognizes that the true strength of the Pelican name lies in its customers’ trust. When it bears the Pelican brand, you can be confident that the product is built with one primary purpose: to protect what matters most to you.
Closing Thoughts on Pelican Case Competitors
The right case for any given situation can be difficult to choose. From waterproof cases to hard cases, there are a variety of options available to suit any need. One of the most popular choices is the Pelican case. But there are several other options that offer the same protection and convenience.
The SKB iSeries Waterproof Cases, Nanuk Hard Cases, OtterBox Defender Series Cases, Peli Air Cases, B&W Outdoor Cases, Seahorse SH Series Cases, Plano All Weather Cases, and Roadie Cases are all excellent alternatives that provide the same level of protection and ease of use.
Each of these cases offers reliable protection and convenience for the user. As a symbol of security and peace of mind, these cases provide a reliable solution to protect valuable items.
A case should not be chosen lightly, and each alternative should be carefully considered to ensure the best possible option is selected for the user’s needs.
At the checkout, Pelican provides repeat-use packaging, which helps minimize waste compared to conventional corrugated fiberboard. We consider this a significant advantage worth considering if you’re shopping for Pelican cases.
