Whether you’re a new or seasoned photographer, you’ll need something to keep your camera equipment safe which may include purchasing a camera case, pouch, or cushioned backpack.
Photography equipment is not cheap. As a result, you must keep it always secure, particularly while transferring from one area to another. There are several reasons why you should transport your camera and lenses in protective cases. You may need a waterproof camera case to protect your equipment from moisture damage, or you may want a case that keeps everything together. Perhaps you want a flexible case that fits effortlessly into your bag?
A quality camera hard case is important if you want to keep your cameras and lenses secure even under the most extreme situations. A hard case is not the same as a camera bag. Prioritizing function over style may not always appear fashionable, but it keeps your equipment safe.
Many professional photographers prefer to carry their equipment in a specialized camera backpack or bag. Camera cases, on the other hand, are a terrific option for individuals who desire a bit more flexibility and mobility.
They are not as constrained as a camera backpack. You have more flexibility to carry just what is essential, slipping the necessary lenses and bodies into your daily bag with the assurance that they will not be damaged. There are various advantages of using a camera hard case. Before going into the list of best camera hard cases, let’s see the advantages of them.
- Advantages of Camera Hard Cases
- Pelican 1200 Case with Foam (Black)
- Pelican 1510 Case with Padded Dividers (Black)
- Pelican Air 1535 Case with TrekPak Dividers – Black
- Amazon Basics Medium Hard Camera Case – Black
- USA GEAR Hard Shell DSLR Camera Case (Black) with Molded EVA Protection, Quick Access Opening, Padded Interior and Rubber Coated Handle-Compatible with Nikon, Canon, Pentax, Olympus, and More
- Monoprice Weatherproof Hard Case
- MEIJIA Portable All-Weather Waterproof Camera Case with Foam, Fit Use of Drones, Camera, Equipment, Pistols, Elegant Black,15.98×12.99×6.85inches
- Conclusion
Advantages of Camera Hard Cases
The first evident benefit of camera hard cases is that they are crush resistant. However, cases are only impact resistant to a certain extent. Some manufacturers will include impact resistance information in their specifications. Many of the big hard cases include telescoping handles and wheels for convenient mobility. Camera hard cases are ideal for storing and transporting equipment because they provide more durability and protection in harsh situations such as snow, water, dust, and sand. They’re also usually stackable, which is helpful for keeping a lot of goods in a narrow space.
Camera hard cases are often made of high-impact plastic polymers, which are lighter in weight than wood or metal but nevertheless highly robust. Many cases feature a mechanism to connect a padlock without affecting its airtight integrity. When looking for a case, look for ones with strong locks and hinges. Some hard cases have O-rings, which are rubber or neoprene gaskets that seal the case’s opening. They permit the hard cases to float or be immersed in water for a brief amount of time, without water leaking inside. Camera hard cases may additionally have a purge valve for rapid equalization following changes in air pressure. This is significant because, without it, a vacuum may occur, making the case exceedingly difficult to open.
Here are a few camera hard case recommendations.
Pelican 1200 Case with Foam (Black)
The Pelican 1200 Case with Foam (Black) is a waterproof, airtight, dustproof, chemical-resistant, and corrosion-proof hard case. It’s made of Ultra-High Impact structural polypropylene, which makes it exceptionally robust and durable. It has a polymer O-ring, and easy-open double throw latches that seal flawlessly. It incorporates an automated pressure equalization valve for rapid equalization after variations in atmospheric pressure.
Photo source: amazon.com
Waterproof and Pressure Equalization Valve
The use of a groove fit, and a polymer O-ring Pelican keeps its cases waterproof. In addition to being waterproof, these cases have an Automatic Pressure Equalization Valve, which allows built-up air pressure to be released while keeping water out.
Foamed Interior and Strengthened Exterior
Pick N PluckTM foam from Pelican allows you to personalize the inside. When it comes to the exterior, there are padlock protectors made of stainless steel that have been strengthened.
Personalized
Configure the inside to meet your exact specifications. The cushioned foam protects your belongings from road shocks and bumps. The case also comes in five different colors, aside from black. The Pelican 1200 camera hard case comes in OD Green, Silver, Yellow, Orange, and Desert Tan.
Pelican 1510 Case with Padded Dividers (Black)
The black Pelican 1510 Carry On Case with Yellow and Black Divider Set is a hard case that is unbreakable, waterproof, airtight, dustproof, chemical resistant, and corrosion-proof. It is constructed of Ultra High Impact structural polypropylene, making it incredibly robust and long-lasting. It contains a polymer O-ring, and an automated purge valve for rapid equalization following ambient pressure variations. It includes a hinged casing with two ABS locks that fully seal, and padlock covers for enhanced strength and protection against cutting and theft.
The 1510 camera hard case has a long side handle, a wide top handle, a retractable telescoping handle, and durable polyurethane wheels with stainless steel bearings. The extension handle features an easy-to-release clasp. The case complies with most airlines’ carry-on bag regulations.
A divider kit is offered, which includes a complete stitched tub with a felt exterior, and a cushioned, touch-fastening partition set. Elastic hold-down straps aid in the security of equipment. The dividers are made up of a high-visibility yellow polyurethane. The case also comes in two other colors: Desert Tan and OD Green.
Photo source: amazon.com
Extension Handle and Padlock Guards
The quick-release latch for the extension handle, also called a trolley handle, or telescoping handle, adds value to the case by making it easier to walk around with. Additionally, the padlock guards offer strength and protection against cutting and theft.
Can Function as Carry-On Case
Because of its adaptability and ability to function as a carry-on case, the Pelican 1510 case is one of the most popular camera hard cases on the market. It is just spacious enough to carry your most important travel camera equipment, while keeping everything secure and up to airlines’ carry-on regulations. The wheels and handle make it much simpler to transport heavy items through the airport.
Water and Dust-Proof
Dust and waterproof polymer O-ring seal, Double Throw latches and Automatic Purge Valve with Gore-Tex membrane and are all featured in the Pelican 1510 case.
Pelican Air 1535 Case with TrekPak Dividers – Black
Pelican has been designing and manufacturing the world’s most significant, protective cases for over 40 years. Pelican Air cases provide the same tough durability as standard cases but are up to 40% lighter.
Pelican Air 1535 Case with TrekPak Dividers is the first in a long line of astonishing breakthroughs developed by Pelican, the pioneers of protective cases.
Photo source: amazon.com
Premium Multi-Purpose Hard Case
It is a universal hard case that is crushproof, dustproof, and waterproof, providing the finest protection for your camera, diving gear, equipment, electronics, and drones, among other things.
Water and Dust Proof
It has a super-light proprietary HPX2TM polymer casing that is resistant to water and crushing, as well as dust. The case contains a EPDM plastic O-ring seal that not only seals out water, but it is more resistant to abrasion, and can resist harsh chemicals like acids and alkalis. As with most Pelican cases, this camera hard case also has an automatic pressure equalization valve that keeps the interior balanced when flying, or at high altitudes while capturing amazing mountain scenery shots!
Size
The outside is 21.96 x 13.97 x 8.98 inches, while the inside measures 20.39 x 7.21 x 20.39 inches. The weight is 9.98 pounds. While this rugged case is obviously lighter than the previous Pelcan cases mentioned, it is the maximum airline size for a carry-on, so please make sure you check with your airline before packing up and heading to the airport. Thankfully, many customer reviewers have testified that this camera hard case has met their airlines’ requirement and was able to get through TSA without hassle.
TrekPak Dividers
Adding the Pelican TrekPak dividers does add two more pounds to the overall weight, but as customers have attested, these customizable, foam dividers are a must when transporting equipment safely.
Amazon Basics Medium Hard Camera Case – Black
The Amazon Basics Hard Camera Case keeps your camera equipment safe and secure, while staying on budget. Although it costs less than the previous cases mentioned, the camera hard case provides optimum protection and keeps your camera equipment secure and is backed by Amazon. The medium-sized (which is available in different sizes), case comes with pre-cut foam squares that allows you to customize the inside layout for optimal usage.
Photo source: amazon.com
Durability
The case is made with a hard plastic material that is durable and sturdy. With this Amazon Basics rugged hard camera case, you can properly store and preserve your important camera equipment. This strong hard camera case has an extended durable handle and smooth-rolling wheels for easy transportation.
Water Resistant
This Amazon Basics tough, hard camera case is IP67 rated, which means it can survive immersion in water for 30 minutes at a depth of 1 meter. If you’re out on a lake or the ocean, and get caught in the rain, or drop your case with your equipment in it, you can relax knowing that your camera equipment is protected.
Easy to Carry
There is a handle on top of the case for the ease and comfort of the user. The handle on top of this hard camera case makes it easier to move the case from one location to another. The folding handle closes in a single smooth motion, allowing for more compact storage.
USA GEAR Hard Shell DSLR Camera Case (Black) with Molded EVA Protection, Quick Access Opening, Padded Interior and Rubber Coated Handle-Compatible with Nikon, Canon, Pentax, Olympus, and More
The DSLR Case created by USA Gear, but no longer found on their website (luckily Amazon and B&H are carrying it) is the ideal travel case and companion for traversing the beautiful streets of the city or working on an ideal photo shoot! The compactivity of this case fits several brands of cameras that have 300mm lenses. The case has dual zippers, so it is not waterproof nor able to self-regulate air pressure, but this small case is perfect last moment, on-the-go projects!
Photo source: amazon.com
Style and Toughness in One Package
The camera is protected by a durable nylon exterior, with EVA egg create foam interior to softly, yet securely hold your camera in place while you carry it in three possible ways: camera strap, belt holster, or the tried-and-true handle. Because this case is small and specialized to fit specific cameras, you can grab-and-go without worrying about carrying large, heavy equipment.
Ready to Go All the Time
An easy-to-open/close hook-and-loop flap makes it easier for you to capture marvelous images on the go without worrying about the equipment handling.
There is also an auxiliary pocket tucked inside that may be used to store items such memory cards and flash drives, so you can carry your bare essentials- camera, lens, and memory devices.
Monoprice Weatherproof Hard Case
Monoprice Weatherproof Hard Case is made of impact and UV-resistant polypropylene and has a completely adjustable foam inside for enhanced shock protection. A pressure relief valve enables you to gradually and safely equalize the pressure within the case with the pressure outside of the case, making opening the case easier. You can secure the contents using your own padlocks via four 7.0mm padlock holes.
The IP rating, or Ingress Protection, is a two-digit figure that specifies the amount of protection supplied by the casings. This case’s IP67 classification indicates that it is completely protected against dust and other particles and can survive up to 30 minutes of submersion in water at a depth of up to 1 meter.
Photo source: amazon.com
Provides Safety and Protection
It is designed and engineered to meet the greatest safety and protection requirements for many different camera types and brands. Moreover, its shockproof design has a completely adjustable foam interior.
Weatherproof And Shockproof
With this customizable weatherproof hard camera case from Monoprice, you can provide IP67 level dust and water protection for power banks, mobile phones, or camera lens filters!
MEIJIA Portable All-Weather Waterproof Camera Case with Foam, Fit Use of Drones, Camera, Equipment, Pistols, Elegant Black,15.98×12.99×6.85inches
MEIJIA is committed to manufacturing high-quality waterproof cases, fishing cases, and tool organizers.
Giving clients a variety of possibilities. MEIJIA has built a global reputation for its wide variety of products used in multi-industry, military, sensor equipment, ground stations, and designed electronic systems.
This Meija Case is 15.98 inches long, 12.99 inches wide, and 6.85 inches tall. It provides complete coverage for your camera and camera equipment. Furthermore, it is made of high-grade polyethylene. It will protect your equipment regardless of the weather conditions, whether you are trapped in the rain or at sea.
Photo source: amazon.com
Reinforced Stainless Steel
The case provides additional strength and security with its reinforced stainless-steel exterior, and convoluted lid foam and customizable, well-padded interior foam, cushioning your equipment snuggly and securely.
Latches Make It Simple to Open
The case is much simpler to open than regular cases. It opens with minimal effort and provides enough leverage to open in seconds with a light pull. However, the latches are powerclaw superior latches that do keep the hard camera case secure when closed.
High-Quality Pressure Valve
The High-Quality Pressure Valve in this allows built-up air pressure to be released while keeping water molecules out.
Customizable Fit Foam
The unique and soft internal cushion is made to suit and protect against road shocks and bumps. You’re able to cut into the foam to create a custom fit for your camera equipment.
Conclusion
When you’re a working photographer on a professional level, protecting your equipment should be one of your highest considerations. If your camera malfunctions while you’re travelling to the location of the shoot, you won’t be able to complete your job. Even if you are a weekend photographer, or enjoy capturing great vacation memories, a hard camera case is essential for your gear. They are wonderful for overseas travel, as well as being ideal for duties that occur daily.
It might be difficult to choose a bag or case that is suitable for your equipment, especially if this is the very first bag or case that you have ever bought. Make an effort to think about how and when you’ll be utilizing your equipment, as well as what you believe will be the most practical manner to bring it all with you. If you search long and hard enough, you may locate a case or bag with soft sides that is priced to accommodate practically any budget. However, when it comes to your bags and luggage, don’t scrimp on quality. Hard camera cases ensure your whole collection of gear is protected. After all, your gear is deserving of the best possible protection, so that it may serve you for a very long time.
