In this article, you’ll find the best (and super cheap) hard cases you can find on the internet.
I’d personally trust all of these with my gear. Minus the Dewalt, but I added that one in just in case someone was interested in it. It was an interesting idea for those that don’t need insanely great protection, but also need a separate storage area as well.
Thanks for reading!
#7 Apache
Absolutely tons of ranting, raving, and just general excitement revolving around these cases. There is a huge hype with these that honestly, I sort of understand. These cases are incredibly inexpensive, and leagues above other inexpensive hard cases. They are way more durable. Way more reliable. All-around better, than other hard cases.
#6 Monoprice
I’m honestly very confused about these cases, digging in and doing research……. it looked like these were absolutely fantastic….. but, a major problem for me was that these cases just don’t have a ton of reviews yet online. For me to feel comfortable purchasing anything, I like to know that many many people have tried it and had a great experience. The customer reviews they do have are absolutely raving fans, but there just wasn’t enough reviews out there for me to feel comfortable with it. Honestly, I’m probably just being over per cautious.
#5 MCM electronics
I was honestly on the fence about these cases until I watched the video below. He puts them through the ringer, and the fact the egg didn’t break when he dropped the case really surprised me. Especially considering they dropped it over and over. The other tests, proving that the cases were waterproof were also impressive……but for me personally I don’t need my cases to be fully waterproof so it’s not as big a concern.
#4 Dewalt
This was the strangest pelican case alternative I could find. It’s definitely just not something you’d expect people to do, but in the right circumstance I totally can see how some people would really love this. Mainly the storage aspect, if you’ve got a bunch of stuff you need to store that are small and you don’t really need to protect very much. If you need that, while simultaneously needing some more serious protection…… I could see this being a great option for you. Personally for me, I just wouldn’t feel totally comfortable with this set up. Nothing wrong with it, just not for me.
#3 Plano
People seriously rave about these cases online, and definitely for good reason. They’re extremely well built. If you really want to get your moneys worth….this is the way to go in my opinion. Plus, what’s really nice is there’s actually a variety of options and sizes for these……a lot of other inexpensive hard cases don’t have as big of a selection. Plano cases boast quite a few things that others simply can’t. If you’re interested in these, the video below is a great review.
#2 Amazon basics
There’s really not much at all to say about this one, the name suits it. It’s absurdly basic with just the bare bones of what you need in a hard case. I don’t think I’d trust this one for extreme conditions, because I couldn’t find any information on if amazon has tested this case or not. It should however, keep your valuable items safe in case of a fall or some type of similar “normal” issue.
#1 Members mark
Probably not the best case when it comes to quality, but it’s definitely worth looking into because of the price. Every once in awhile they pop up at Sams Club (it’s the Sams club brand of case). But recently I haven’t been seeing them at my local one. I couldn’t find anything on the testing for this model, so I wouldn’t try this in extreme conditions. If you need to get on quickly try calling your local sams and see if you can get one. If you don’t have a membership, sometimes they do one day free trials.
BONUS: Quick tips you need to know about buying a pelican case alternative –
#1 Most of these cases don’t have the same level of protection that your average pelican case does, but some have had testing done.
The most common testing you’ll find out there is the IPR which stands for ingress protection rating. The higher the rating, the better your case can withstand dust and water.
The next most common rating, is the MIL-STD-810g. This is the military testing done to test for how well a case fairs after being dropped.
Now, all this being said….
You CAN find alternative hard cases with both of these testing standards (and more) out there….
But you’ll still be paying pretty close to what you’d pay for a pelican unfortunately, unless you’re buying used.
So, what’s the reason for telling you all this? Basically, the quality of the case you get is pretty close to the amount you’re going to pay.
But…..
If all you need is a case that protects from basic things like small drops, and maybe some rain here and there……you’re going to be more than okay with the ones listed above.
#2 Be aware of travel requirements –
Typically, the hard case companies will tell you wether or not you can bring their case as a carry on……
But, you should be aware that many times air traffic regulations are subject to change. So if you do a LOT of flying, I’d suggest checking with your airline before purchasing.
Also, airlines have lots of special rules that can involve these cases. For instance, many airlines require that if you’re putting a lock on your suitcase that it be a special approved lock (you can find more info about these online). Otherwise, they can cut your case open if they deem it appropriate.
#3 Seriously do your research on these before buying one.
I hate to say it, but there were a few hard cases I found out there that I didn’t include on this list that were SUPER INEXPENSIVE……..but absolutely horrible. It wasn’t obvious at first glance, but after reading reviews after review and looking through forums……there were definitely some bad apples.
#4 Not all foam is created equal
Some cases are great, but the foam with them is not the best. Not a big deal, because you can buy replacement foam from other companies and make due with that……but it’s definitely something to consider.
#5 Learn how to cut the foam on a video before going at it –
If you’re like me you’re probably thinking “how hard can it be”? Especially with the pick n pluck foam….
It’s actually slightly harder than you think. People mess up doing it all the time and have to order themselves new foam.
I definitely suggest checking out this video if you’ll be using pick n pluck foam before you start:
Conclusion:
Hope you enjoyed this article about super inexpensive pelican case alternatives. Honestly, there are so many options nowadays for hard cases that it’s become ridiculously confusing deciding which one is best for you, and I totally understand that. If you think there are some ways I can improve this article, please comment below and let me know. thank you so much for reading, I really appreciate it.
For those that skimmed through this article, and didn’t really read anything……..consider this.
With all of the options out there, these are simply the best inexpensive options when it comes to a case that protects your belongings from normal wear and tear. We’re talking about small falls, and maybe light or heavy rain, and warmer temperatures but not anything to insane.
If you really need something that will protect your case in really intense conditions, look into cases that have military grade testing and other standardized test such as the ingress protection rating. Cases with these qualifications are probably what’s best suited for you. Unfortunately, these cases can be much more expensive……. but at least you’ll know your belongings are safe.
Thank you again for reading this article, any comments or suggestions are greatly appreciated!