Embarking on an outdoor adventure or professional assignment calls for equipment that can withstand the harshness of the elements. Cue the ruggedly built Pelican cases, designed to protect your essentials from the toughest conditions.
In this article, we will pit two titans against each other: the Pelican 1510 and the Pelican 1535 case.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Pelican 1510 | Pelican 1535 |
| Exterior Dimensions (inches) | 22 x 13.81 x 9 | 21.96 x 13.97 x 8.98 |
| Weight (lbs) | 13.6 | 9.2 |
| Interior Design | Pick N Pluck Foam | Padded Dividers |
| Carry-On Compatible | Depends on Airline | Yes |
| Durability | Ultra-high Impact Copolymer | Lightweight HPX Resin |
| Pull Handle | Yes | Yes |
| Wheels | Yes | Yes |
| TSA Approved | Yes | Yes |
| Price | Lower | Higher |
Pelican 1510 Case
The Pelican 1510 case is a mobile fortress for your gear.
It offers an excellent balance of size and weight, making it ideal for transporting sensitive equipment without being cumbersome.
It comes with wheels and a retractable extension handle, which is quite handy when traveling.
Pros:
- Space: The Pelican 1510 provides ample room to store your belongings. Its spacious design is a significant advantage for those who need to transport a lot of gear.
- Durability: Constructed with ultra-high impact copolymer, the 1510 model is practically indestructible.
- Comfort: Despite its robustness, the case is comfortable to carry, thanks to its double-throw latches and rubber molded handles.
Cons:
- Weight: The Pelican 1510 case is on the heavier side, which might make it a bit challenging to maneuver for some users.
- Price: The cost might be a bit steep for those on a budget.
Pelican 1535 Case
The Pelican 1535 case, part of the Air series, is known for its lightweight design without compromising durability. It includes the same protective attributes as the 1510 but adds a few more upgrades.
Pros:
- Weight: The Pelican 1535 case is up to 40% lighter than other polymer cases, making it an excellent choice for those frequently on the go.
- Dividers: The case features a unique modular padded divider system, which allows users to customize their storage space for maximum convenience.
- Mobility: Like the 1510, the 1535 model comes with a retractable pull handle and wheels for easy transportation.
Cons:
- Size: The Pelican 1535 is a bit smaller than the 1510, which might limit storage for those who need more room for their gear.
- Cost: Despite being lighter, the 1535 model is also more expensive than its counterpart, making it less accessible for budget-conscious buyers.
Key Differences Between Pelican 1510 and 1535 Cases
- Size and Weight: Balancing Portability and Capacity
The first key difference lies in the size and weight of these two robust cases.
The Pelican 1510 measures 22 x 13.81 x 9 inches and weighs approximately 13.6 lbs.
The case provides plenty of storage space, ideal for individuals carrying larger equipment.
Its weight, although on the heavier side, reinforces the durability of the case, designed to protect and withstand the heaviest of loads.
In contrast, the Pelican 1535 case, being part of Pelican’s Air series, is designed with weight reduction and portability in mind.
With dimensions of 21.96 x 13.97 x 8.98 inches, it is slightly smaller than the 1510.
The case weighs only 9.2 lbs, which is significantly lighter compared to the 1510. The trade-off here is a bit less room for your gear, but the benefit is the ease of transportation and maneuverability, especially for those constantly on the move.
- Interior Design: Picking Between Foam and Dividers
The interior design of the two cases is another point of divergence. The Pelican 1510 comes with Pick N Pluck foam, which users can customize according to their equipment size and shape.
This foam offers an additional layer of cushioning protection for sensitive devices. The downside is that once you’ve removed the foam pieces, changing the layout later can be difficult.
On the other hand, the Pelican 1535 features a unique padded divider system, offering users the ability to customize their storage spaces. The dividers are easy to rearrange, which provides greater flexibility for different gear setups.
However, the padded dividers might not provide the same level of shock absorption as the foam in the 1510 model.
- TSA Approval and Carry-On Compatibility
While both cases are designed with travel in mind, the Pelican 1535 comes out on top when it comes to carry-on compatibility. Its dimensions are designed to comply with the carry-on regulations of many airlines.
This feature is a major win for professionals who prefer to keep their valuable equipment within arm’s reach during flights. Although the Pelican 1510 is also designed with portability in mind, its slightly larger size might not meet some airlines’ carry-on regulations.
- Price: The Investment Decision
Another important consideration is the price. The Pelican 1535, with its lighter weight and travel-friendly design, comes with a higher price tag compared to the Pelican 1510.
The 1510 model, although cheaper, offers more space and foam protection, presenting excellent value for money. Your decision will depend on your budget constraints and the features you value the most.
Also Read: Comparison of Pelican 1615 And 1650 Cases.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
While both cases are equipped with similar features like retractable pull handles, wheels, and crushproof construction, the key difference lies in their dimensions and weight. The Pelican 1510, being larger, offers more space, but it is also heavier. The Pelican 1535, on the other hand, is lighter and a bit smaller, providing enhanced portability at the cost of some storage capacity.
The Pelican 1510 weighs around 13.6 lbs, while the Pelican 1535 weighs approximately 9.2 lbs. This weight difference contributes significantly to their portability, making the 1535 case easier to handle, especially for extended travel periods.
Yes, the Pelican 1535 case is TSA-approved. It is designed to comply with the maximum carry-on size of many airlines, making it a great choice for frequent flyers. However, always check with your specific airline as regulations may vary.
Absolutely! The Pelican 1535 case is designed to be within the acceptable carry-on size for many airlines. Its dimensions of 22 x 14 x 9 inches fit comfortably in most overhead compartments, making it a popular choice for photographers, videographers, and other professionals who need their equipment close at hand.
Wrapping It Up
Whether you choose the Pelican 1510 or the Pelican 1535 case, both are commendable choices that offer superior protection for your valuable gear. While they each have their pros and cons, the final decision will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
Remember, the 1510 model is excellent for those needing extra space and don’t mind a bit of extra weight, while the 1535 is a fantastic choice for those prioritizing lightweight and easy maneuverability. Whatever your choice, rest assured that both cases will serve you well, living up to Pelican’s reputation for toughness and durability.
