Choosing between the Pelican 1610 and Pelican 1620 usually comes down to one thing: how much interior height your gear needs.
Both Pelican cases offer the same rugged protection and nearly identical footprints, but the 1620’s added depth makes it the better option for bulkier setups.
Comparison Table: Pelican 1610 vs 1620
|
Dimensions |
24.83” x 19.69” x 11.88" |
24.76” x 19.57” x 13.9" |
|
Price (CAD) |
$427.95 |
$461.95 |
|
Interior Dimensions |
21.78” x 16.69” x 10.62" |
21.48” x 16.42” x 12.54" |
|
Weight (empty & with foam) |
19.50 lbs (8.85 kg) & 22.30 lbs (10.12 kg) |
21.20 lbs (9.62 kg) & 24.62 lbs (11.17 kg) |
|
Volume |
2.23ft³ (0.06m³) |
2.56ft³ (0.07m³) |
|
Colours (Vary by Region) |
Black, Desert Tan |
Black, Desert Tan |
|
Best For |
Portable protection of medium-sized gear: cameras, drones, tools, electronics. |
Portable protection of medium-to-large-sized gear: cameras, video kits, drones, instruments, tools, electronics. |
|
Protection Features |
IP67 watertight, crushproof, dustproof, -40°F to 190°F |
IP67 watertight, crushproof, dustproof, -40°F to 190°F |
|
Material |
Polypropylene body, ABS latches, polymer O-ring |
Polypropylene body, ABS latches, polymer O-ring |
|
Airline Compatibility |
Checked or oversize* |
Checked or oversize* |
|
Locking Options |
Double-throw latches, TSA-approved locks |
Double-throw latches, TSA-approved locks |
|
Certifications |
IP67, US/NATO mil-spec certified |
IP67, US/NATO mil-spec certified |
|
Warranty |
Limited Lifetime |
Limited Lifetime |
* Confirm your airline’s luggage restrictions before flying.
Key Differences
1. Interior Depth & Capacity
This is the biggest separator:
-
1610 depth: 10.62"
-
1620 depth: 12.54"
-
Capacity: 2.23 ft³ vs 2.56 ft³ (about 15% more volume)
Those extra inches matter for taller gear like video rigs, gimbals, large drones, scientific devices, or equipment you prefer to keep assembled.
2. Weight
-
1610 empty: 19.50 lbs
-
1620 empty: 21.20 lbs
The 1620’s extra depth adds about 1.7 lbs, which becomes more noticeable once fully packed, especially if you fly often.
What Customers Are Saying
Feedback across photography and filmmaking communities shows that these models are frequently used as camera cases:
1610 Users
-
Praised for being easier to travel with
-
Ideal for cameras, drones, audio gear, and mid-sized kits
1620 Users
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Loved for extra headroom
-
Fits fully built video rigs, lighting equipment, or instruments without disassembly
-
Heavier when full, but more versatile
Both models are regarded as extremely durable, with reliable wheels and handles. Most users agree that the right choice depends entirely on your gear and workflow.
Our Recommendations
Both cases deliver the same waterproof, crushproof protection, so measure your equipment, factor in foam thickness, and choose the size that gives you the best fit.
Choose the Pelican 1610 if:
-
Your gear fits within 10.62" of depth
-
Portability or weight matters for travel
-
You’re carrying photography kits, drones, tools, or electronics
Choose the Pelican 1620 if:
-
You need depth for taller or assembled gear
-
You transport video rigs, gimbals, lighting heads, or large instruments
-
You want extra space for future gear
-
Weight isn't a major concern
Not sure which case fits your equipment? Use our Pelican case size chart to compare interior dimensions across the full lineup.
Both cases deliver the same waterproof, crushproof protection, so measure your equipment, factor in foam thickness, and choose the size that gives you the best fit.
