Choosing between the Pelican 1560 and Pelican 1510 comes down to one key question: do you need airline carry-on compatibility, or maximum storage capacity?
Both cases deliver the legendary Pelican protection you'd expect, but they serve different purposes.
This comparison breaks down everything you need to make the right choice.
Comparison Table: Pelican 1560 vs 1510
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Dimensions |
22.07” x 17.92” x 10.42" |
22" × 13.81" × 9" |
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Price (CAD) |
$349.95 |
$324.95 |
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Interior Dimensions |
19.92” x 14.98” x 9.00" |
19.75" × 11" × 7.6" |
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Weight (empty & with foam) |
17.00 lbs (7.71 kg) & 20.00 lbs (9.07 kg) |
11.99 lbs (5.4 kg) & 13.6 lbs (6.2 kg) |
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Volume |
1.55ft³ (0.04m³) |
0.96ft³ (0.03m³) |
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Colours (Vary by Region) |
Black, Desert Tan, Orange, Silver, Yellow |
Black, Desert Tan, OD Green |
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Best For |
Secure, wheeled transport of cameras, electronics, and field gear. |
Compact, carry-on protection of cameras, drones, and electronics. |
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Protection Features |
IP67 watertight, crushproof, dustproof, -40°F to 190°F |
IP67 waterproof, crushproof, dustproof, -40°F to 190°F |
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Material |
Polypropylene body, ABS latches, polymer O-ring |
Polypropylene body, ABS latches, polymer O-ring |
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Airline Compatibility |
Checked or oversize* |
Maximum airline carry-on size* |
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Locking Options |
Double-throw latches, TSA-approved locks |
Double-throw latches, TSA-approved locks |
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Certifications |
IP67, US/NATO mil-spec certified |
IP67, US/NATO mil-spec certified |
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Warranty |
Limited Lifetime |
Limited Lifetime |
*Confirm with your airline for carry-on, checked & oversized baggage restrictions.
What Customers Are Saying
Photographers, who are common users of these cases, frequently debate these two models in online forums, such as this post on TalkPhotography.
The consensus? The 1510's carry-on compatibility makes it the preferred choice for frequent flyers.
However, users who need more capacity swear by the 1560. A few photographers actually own both, using the 1510 for travel and the 1560 for ground transport.
Our Recommendations
Both cases deliver identical protection: IP67 waterproof ratings, mil-spec certification, and Pelican's Limited Lifetime Warranty.
Ultimately, the best choice between the two comes down to your specific needs.
Choose the Pelican 1510 if you:
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Travel frequently by air and need carry-on capability
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Want a lighter case (5 lbs less than the 1560)
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Need protection for drones, camera equipment, or compact electronics
Choose the Pelican 1560 if you:
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Require maximum interior space (61% more volume)
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Primarily transport gear by vehicle
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Need to protect larger equipment setups or medical devices
Still not sure which size is best for your gear? Use our Pelican case size chart to compare interior dimensions against your equipment.
You can also browse our complete collection of Pelican cases to explore other options in the Protector series.
