When it comes to protecting your sensitive equipment, there’s no better choice than Pelican. Two leading options in their extensive lineup are the Pelican 1615 and the Pelican 1650 cases.
This article takes an in-depth look at these two rugged cases, highlighting their unique features, pros, cons, and which might be the best fit for you.
A Comprehensive Comparison Table
| Feature | Pelican 1615 | Pelican 1650 |
| Weight (empty) | 14.06 lbs | 26.1 lbs |
| Exterior Dimensions | 32.58″ x 18.40″ x 11.02″ | 31.59″ x 20.47″ x 12.45″ |
| Interior Organization | TrekPak Dividers | Pick N Pluck Foam |
| Waterproof | Yes (No specific IP rating) | Yes (IP67 rated) |
| Dustproof | Yes | Yes |
| Wheels and Handles | Yes | Yes |
| Durability | High (Lighter design) | Higher (Reinforced design) |
Pelican 1615: Air Light, Heavy-Duty Protection
The Pelican Air 1615 is all about balancing lightness with protection.
Thanks to HPX2™ proprietary formula, the 1615 is up to 40% lighter than other polymer cases yet doesn’t compromise on strength or durability.
It also comes with an automatic pressure equalization valve, ensuring your equipment stays safe during flights.
Pros of Pelican 1615
- Lightweight: At just 14.06 lbs (empty), the 1615 is a breeze to transport.
- Spacious: With exterior dimensions of 32.58″ x 18.40″ x 11.02″, it’s roomy enough for your larger equipment.
- TrekPak Dividers: The 1615 includes TrekPak Dividers that provide versatile, customizable storage.
- Wheels and Handles: The retractable handle and stainless-steel bearing wheels make for easy maneuverability.
Cons of Pelican 1615
- Pricey: Quality comes at a cost. The 1615 may be a touch expensive for some budgets.
- Size: The same spaciousness might be a challenge in compact storage spaces.
Also Read: Differences Between Pelican 1510 And 1535 Cases.
Pelican 1650: A Reliable, Classic Choice
The Pelican 1650 case is the answer for those seeking classic, rugged durability. Its robust design and reinforced corners can withstand the harshest conditions. It’s designed to keep your gear safe and dry, thanks to its IP67 waterproof rating and dustproof seal.
Pros of Pelican 1650
- Waterproof: The 1650 is IP67 rated, meaning it can be submerged up to 1m in water for up to 30 minutes without damage.
- Robust: Weighing 26.1 lbs (empty), the 1650 is sturdily built for rugged conditions.
- Pick N Pluck Foam: The interior foam can be customized to snugly fit your equipment.
- Roomy: The case measures 31.59″ x 20.47″ x 12.45″ externally, giving you plenty of space.
Cons of Pelican 1650
- Weight: At 26.1 lbs, the 1650 can be a tad cumbersome to move around.
- No Dividers: The 1650 lacks dividers, which might limit your packing options.
Key Differences Between The Pelican 1615 And 1650 Cases
Pelican is known for producing quality cases that stand the test of time and harsh conditions, with the Pelican 1615 and 1650 being prime examples. Despite their similarities, several key differences make them unique.
Let’s dissect these differences to help you make an informed decision.
- Weight and Portability
The most striking difference between the Pelican 1615 and 1650 is weight.
With the Air series, Pelican aimed to cut down on case weight without compromising durability.
The 1615 case, being part of the Air series, weighs just 14.06 lbs empty, compared to the 1650’s hefty 26.1 lbs.
This makes the 1615 much more portable, especially for air travel or when lugging it around frequently.
- Internal Organization
Both the 1615 and 1650 cases offer customizable interiors but in different ways. The Pelican 1615 features TrekPak dividers, which are removable partitions that let you design and reconfigure the case’s interior layout as per your needs.
On the other hand, the Pelican 1650 uses Pick N Pluck foam. This pre-scored foam can be plucked out to create cavities that fit your equipment like a glove.
Although it offers a snug fit, it’s less flexible than the TrekPak system, as changes are permanent.
- Water and Dust Protection
While both cases offer water and dust resistance, the 1650 takes it up a notch with an IP67 rating. This means the 1650 is completely dustproof and can be submerged in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes without damage.
Although the 1615 features a watertight O-ring gasket, it doesn’t carry a specific IP rating, making the 1650 a safer bet if water exposure is a major concern.
- Design and Durability
The Pelican 1650 boasts a robust design with extra reinforcements, giving it an edge in extreme conditions. While the 1615 case also offers robust protection, it’s designed with weight reduction in mind, making it slightly less durable compared to the 1650.
However, this doesn’t mean the 1615 is fragile; it’s still built to withstand heavy-duty use, just with a lighter footprint.
Also Read: Comparison of Pelican And ROAM Cases.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The Pelican 1615 case has a travel weight of 14.06 lbs when it’s empty. Add your equipment’s weight to calculate the total travel weight.
Yes, the Pelican 1650 case is waterproof. It carries an IP67 rating, which means it can be submerged in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes without suffering damage.
The Pelican 1650 case weighs 26.1 lbs when it’s empty.
The exterior dimensions of the Pelican Air 1615 are 32.58″ x 18.40″ x 11.02″.
The Bottom Line
Choosing between the Pelican 1615 and 1650 comes down to your specific needs. If you’re after lightweight portability without sacrificing protection, the 1615 might be your pick.
However, if waterproofing and a classic, rugged design is what you need, the 1650 may fit the bill.
Either way, investing in a Pelican case ensures you’re getting top-tier protection for your valuable equipment. So weigh your options, consider your needs, and choose the case that checks all your boxes.
Rest assured that with a Pelican, your gear will always be in safe hands.
