Pelican 1400 vs 1450 vs 1500: Which Case Is Right for You?

Choosing between the Pelican 1400, 1450, and 1500 cases can be challenging when you're looking to protect small-to-medium equipment. 

While all three offer Pelican's legendary durability, each case serves different needs based on your gear requirements. 

This comparison breaks down the key differences to help you make the right choice.

Comparison Table: Pelican 1400 vs 1450 vs 1500


Pelican 1400 Protector Case]-Pelican-Black-No Foam-Production Case

Pelican 1400

Pelican 1450 Protector Case]-Pelican-Black-No Foam-Production Case

Pelican 1450

Pelican 1500 Protector Case]-Pelican-Black-No Foam-Production Case

Pelican 1500

Dimensions

13.37” x 11.62” x 6"
(33.96 x 29.51 x 15.24 cm)

16.44” x 13” x 6.82"
(41.76 x 33.02 x 17.32 cm)

18.5” x 14.06” x 6.93"
(46.99 x 35.71 x 17.6 cm)

Price (CAD)

$153.95

$202.95

$232.95

Interior Dimensions

11.81” x 8.87” x 5.18"
(30 x 22.53 x 13.16 cm)

14.66” x 10.24” x 6.12"
(37.24 x 26.01 x 15.54 cm)

16.75” x 11.18” x 6.12"
(42.55 x 28.4 x 15.54 cm) 

Weight (empty & with foam)

3.97 lbs (1.8 kg) & 4.41 lbs (2 kg)

5.51 lbs (2.5 kg) & 6.39 lbs (2.9 kg)

7.13 lbs (3.23 kg) & 7.94 lbs (3.6 kg) 

Volume

0.31ft³ (0.01m³)

0.53ft³ (0.02m³)

0.66ft³ (0.02m³)

Colours (Vary by Region)

Black, Desert Tan, Orange, OD Green, Silver, Yellow 

Black, Desert Tan, Orange, OD Green, Silver, Yellow 

Black, Desert Tan, Orange, OD Green, Silver, Yellow 

Best For

Small cameras, compact electronics, personal items

Medium camera kits, drones, medical equipment

Large camera setups, multiple devices, tool kits

Protection Features

Watertight, crushproof, dustproof, -40°F to 190°F

Watertight, crushproof, dustproof, -40°F to 190°F

Watertight, crushproof, dustproof, -40°F to 190°F

Material 

Polypropylene, ABS latches, polymer O-ring

Polypropylene, ABS latches, polymer O-ring

Polypropylene, ABS latches, polymer O-ring

Airline Compatibility

Fits most airlines' carry-on limits

Fits most airlines' carry-on limits

Fits most airlines' carry-on limits

Locking Options

Double-throw latches, TSA-approved locks

Double-throw latches, TSA-approved locks

Double-throw latches, TSA-approved locks

Certifications

IP67, US/NATO mil-spec

IP67, US/NATO mil-spec

IP67, US/NATO mil-spec


Our Recommendations

Since all three models offer identical protection standards (IP67 watertight, mil-spec certified, -40°F to 190°F rated), your decision should be driven primarily by interior capacity and weight requirements.

Choose the Pelican 1400 if you need:

  • The most compact and lightweight option at 4.41 lbs with foam (3.97 lbs empty)

  • Protection for cameras, compact electronics, or small handguns

  • Easy all-day carry for day trips and travel

  • Maximum portability without compromising protection

  • A case that fits in most backpacks or under airline seats

Choose the Pelican 1450 if you need:

  • Mid-size capacity with 0.53 ft³ interior volume

  • Protection for drones, small medical equipment, or medium camera kits

  • The sweet spot between the compactness of the 1400 and the capacity of the 1500

  • Popular choice for drone pilots and medium equipment transport

Choose the Pelican 1500 if you need:

  • Maximum capacity in the medium case range at 0.66 ft³

  • Protection for larger camera rigs, gaming consoles, or professional tool kits

  • Highest buoyancy rating (50 lbs) for water activities

  • Space for multiple devices or comprehensive equipment sets

  • Professional-grade protection while remaining carry-on compatible

Regardless of the option, they all make excellent camera cases and gun cases for small firearms like handguns.

Need help finding the perfect case for your equipment? 

Explore our full range of Pelican cases, use our Pelican case size chart to compare all models, or contact us for customized guidance tailored to your gear protection requirements.

 

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