The Pelican iM2500 (Storm Series) and Pelican 1510 (Protector Series) are two of the most popular hard-shell carry-on cases on the market.
Both meet airline carry-on dimensions* and share a comparable price, but they offer different strengths in durability, interior layout, and long-term travel performance.
This guide highlights the key differences so you can pick the best Pelican case for your gear.
Comparison Table: Pelican iM2500 vs 1510
|
Dimensions |
21.7” x 14.1” x 8.9" |
22" × 13.81" × 9" |
|
Price (CAD) |
$324.95 |
$324.95 |
|
Interior Dimensions |
20.50” x 11.50” x 7.20" |
19.75" × 11" × 7.6" |
|
Weight (empty & with foam) |
11.10 lbs (5.03 kg) & 13.70 lbs (6.21 kg) |
11.99 lbs (5.4 kg) & 13.6 lbs (6.2 kg) |
|
Volume |
0.98ft³ (0.03m³) |
0.96ft³ (0.03m³) |
|
Colours (Vary by Region) |
Black, OD Green, Yellow |
Black, Desert Tan, OD Green |
|
Best For |
Secure, carry-on travel of cameras, drones, and electronics. |
Max-sized carry-on hard case for cameras, drones, electronics. |
|
Protection Features |
Watertight, crushproof, dustproof, -20°F to 140°F |
IP67 waterproof, crushproof, dustproof, -40°F to 190°F |
|
Material |
HPX & Resin body, PBT latches, EPDM O-ring |
Polypropylene |
|
Airline Compatibility |
Carry-on* |
Maximum airline carry-on size* |
|
Locking Options |
Press & Pull latches, TSA-approved locks |
Padlock protectors, TSA compatible |
|
Certifications |
None |
US/NATO mil-spec |
|
Warranty |
Limited Lifetime |
Limited Lifetime |
*Confirm with your airline for carry-on size restrictions.
Key Differences
Durability & Protection
Both cases provide Pelican’s signature impact resistance, but the 1510 is built for more extreme conditions.
Pelican iM2500
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HPX high-performance resin
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Press & Pull latches
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-20°F to 140°F temperature range
The iM2500 offers excellent everyday protection, but isn’t designed for extreme conditions to the same degree as the 1510.
Pelican 1510
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IP67 waterproof rating
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Dustproof & crushproof
-
-40°F to 190°F temperature range
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MIL-STD compliant
Overall, this makes the 1510 better suited for harsh climates, rough baggage handling, and professional environments that require certified equipment protection.
Latches
Latch style is one of the biggest usability differences between the two cases.
iM2500 – Press & Pull Latches
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Very easy to operate
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Prevent accidental release
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Comfortable with gloves or cold hands
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A major reason many photographers prefer this model for camera cases
1510 – Double-Throw Latches
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Classic Pelican mechanical leverage
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Extremely secure seal
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Stiffer opening feel
Both latch styles are reliable, but the iM2500’s Press & Pull latches are widely considered more user-friendly.
Our Recommendations
Choose the Pelican iM2500 if:
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You want easier-to-use latches
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You need more interior width
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You prefer quieter wheels for airport travel
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You want the lighter empty weight
Choose the Pelican 1510 if:
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You need IP67 waterproofing or extreme temperature resistance
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Your work requires MIL-STD-compliant gear
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You value the classic Protector Series durability
-
You travel in rugged or unpredictable conditions
Both cases are outstanding; it simply depends on whether you prioritize comfort and usability (iM2500) or certified rugged performance (1510).
Still unsure which case is best for you? Check out our Pelican Case Size Chart for direct comparisons based on the dimensions of your gear.
