Choosing between the Pelican 1650 and Pelican 1660 ultimately comes down to how much gear you need to transport, and how portable you need the case to be.
Both models offer Pelican’s signature durability, but their dramatically different depths make them suited for very different applications.
This guide breaks down the key differences and provides clear recommendations to help you choose the right heavy-duty Pelican case.
Comparison Table: Pelican 1650 vs 1660
|
Dimensions |
31.59” x 20.47” x 12.45" (80.24 x 51.99 x 31.62 cm) |
31.59” x 22.99” x 19.48" (80.24 x 58.39 x 49.48 cm) |
|
Price (CAD) |
$484.95 |
$693.95 |
|
Interior Dimensions |
28.57” x 17.52” x 10.65" (72.57 x 44.5 x 27.05 cm) |
28.20” x 19.66” x 17.63" (71.63 x 49.94 x 44.78 cm) |
|
Weight (empty & with foam) |
24.03 lbs (10.9 kg) & 28.06 lbs (12.73 kg) |
34.16 lbs (15.49 kg) & 42.16 lbs (19.12 kg) |
|
Volume |
3.08ft³ (0.09m³) |
5.66ft³ (0.16m³) |
|
Colours (Vary by Region) |
Black, Desert Tan, OD Green |
Black, Desert Tan |
|
Best For |
Great for secure, medium-sized gear transport and storage. |
Ideal for heavy, bulky equipment and full-kit logistics. |
|
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 with your airline for checked & oversized luggage size restrictions.
Key Differences
1. Internal Volume & Depth
The most important difference is internal capacity:
-
Pelican 1650: 3.08 ft³
-
Pelican 1660: 5.66 ft³
The 1660 provides almost double the volume, primarily due to its much greater interior depth. This makes it ideal for bulky items, tall components, and multi-layer foam builds.
Meanwhile, the 1650’s shallower profile allows for faster access and prevents overly deep stacking of sensitive gear.
2. Exterior Size & Handling
The 1660 is significantly taller and wider, making it much more challenging to move solo, especially once loaded. It often requires two-person handling and may not fit easily into smaller vehicles.
The 1650 is still a large case, but it is widely regarded as the biggest Pelican that most users can comfortably manage alone.
3. Weight
-
1650 (empty): 24.03 lbs
-
1660 (empty): 34.16 lbs
If you travel frequently, especially by air, the 1650’s lower weight and smaller footprint can prevent oversize luggage fees and reduce handling strain.
Our Recommendations
Choosing the right case depends on how you balance portability versus capacity. Here’s the simplified guidance:
Choose the Pelican 1650 if:
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You want the largest case that remains manageable for solo handling
-
You travel frequently, especially by air
-
Your equipment fits well into a shallower, easier-access layout
-
Portability and maneuverability matter more than maximum internal depth
Choose the Pelican 1660 if:
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Your gear is tall, bulky, or requires multiple foam layers
-
You want to consolidate several smaller kits into one large case
-
Weight isn’t an issue because you have help moving heavy loads
-
You need maximum storage space above all else
If you're unsure which size is best for your equipment, refer to our Pelican size chart or contact us for personalized recommendations.
