Choosing between the Pelican 1615 Air and Pelican 1650 Protector cases?
Both are excellent wheeled check-in cases designed for serious protection, but they serve different needs.
This comparison will help you decide which case best fits your gear and travel requirements.
Still not sure which size works best? Check out our complete Pelican case size chart or browse our full selection of Pelican cases to compare additional options.
Comparison Table: Pelican 1615 vs 1650
 |
|
|
|
Dimensions |
32.58” x 18.4” x 11.02" |
31.59” x 20.47” x 12.45" |
|
Price (CAD) |
$505.95 |
$484.95 |
|
Interior Dimensions |
29.59” x 15.50” x 9.38" |
28.57” x 17.52” x 10.65" |
|
Weight (empty & with foam) |
14.06 lbs (6.38 kg) & 17.60 lbs (7.98 kg) |
24.03 lbs (10.9 kg) & 28.06 lbs (12.73 kg) |
|
Volume |
2.49ft³ (0.07m³) |
3.08ft³ (0.09m³) |
|
Colours (Varies by Region) |
Black, Graphite, Orange, Silver, Yellow, OCP Tan |
Black, Desert Tan, OD Green |
|
Best For |
Professional photographers, videographers, drone operators who prioritize lighter weight |
Film crews, lighting equipment, larger camera systems, military/law enforcement gear |
|
Protection Features |
Watertight O-ring seal, automatic pressure equalization valve, crushproof construction |
Watertight O-ring seal, automatic pressure equalization valve, crushproof construction |
|
Material |
HPX² Resin (lightweight polymer) |
Polypropylene |
|
Airline Compatibility |
Max airline check-in size* |
Oversized on most airlines |
|
Locking Options |
Press & Pull latches, TSA-approved locks |
Double-throw latches, TSA-approved locks |
|
Certifications |
IP67 (dustproof/waterproof), crushproof, MIL-SPEC certified |
IP67 (dustproof/waterproof), crushproof, US/NATO mil-spec certified |
*Confirm with your airline for check-in size restrictions.
What Customers Are Saying
Forum discussions show how professionals in tactical applications carefully consider Pelican case sizing for their gear needs.
The debate often comes down to whether to use one large case or multiple smaller ones, which applies directly to choosing between the spacious 1650 or the more portable 1615.
Weight, airline fees, and ease of transport consistently emerge as key factors in these decisions.
Our Recommendations
Choose the Pelican 1615 Air if you:
-
Travel frequently by air and want to avoid oversized baggage fees
-
Need a camera case or gaming case to protect your equipment
-
Prioritize lighter weight for easier handling and transport
-
Pack longer items like tripods, monopods, or rifle cases
-
Want a case that one person can comfortably manage
Choose the Pelican 1650 if you:
-
Require maximum width and depth for bulkier equipment
-
Need to stack or organize multiple items side by side
-
Don't mind oversized baggage fees for air travel
-
Primarily transport by vehicle rather than air
-
Want maximum interior volume for complex gear configurations
Making Your Final Decision
Both cases excel at protection; that's guaranteed with Pelican's legendary durability.
The real decision comes down to your transport method and gear configuration. The 1615 Air shines for air travellers who need lighter weight and standard check-in sizing, while the 1650 serves those who need maximum capacity and primarily transport by vehicle.
Consider not just what you're carrying, but how you're carrying it. If airline fees and weight matter, the 1615 Air is your best choice.
If maximum volume is essential and you're driving to locations, the 1650 provides that extra space.
