Pelican Comparison
By The Case Place Team · Updated October 2026 · 5 min read
The Pelican 1610 and 1620 are two of the most popular rolling cases Pelican has ever made. They share the same footprint, wheels, telescoping handle and double-throw latches. The one real difference is depth, and that's what decides which you need.
TL;DR — Quick Answer
The 1620 is about 2 inches deeper inside than the 1610 (12.54 in vs 10.62 in). The length and width are nearly identical. Get the 1610 for camera kits, tools and gear you want in a single layer. Get the 1620 for bulky or stacked gear like drones, lighting, medical kits and anything tall.
Pelican 1610 vs. 1620 Specs
| Spec | Pelican 1610 | Pelican 1620 |
|---|---|---|
| Interior (L x W x D) | 21.78 x 16.69 x 10.62 in | 21.48 x 16.42 x 12.54 in |
| Exterior (L x W x D) | 24.83 x 19.69 x 11.88 in | 24.76 x 19.57 x 13.90 in |
| Lid / bottom depth | 2.05 in / 8.57 in | 2.01 in / 10.53 in |
| Interior volume | 2.23 ft³ | 2.56 ft³ |
| Weight with foam | 22.3 lbs | 24.6 lbs |
| Wheels & handle | Yes, telescoping | Yes, telescoping |
| Latches | 4 double-throw | 4 double-throw |
Where the 1610 Wins
The 1610 is the better fit when your gear lays flat. Camera bodies and lenses, handheld radios, meters and test equipment, and power tools all fit well. The shallower bottom means less dead space and a lighter case. It also slides into a car trunk or overhead space a little easier.
In Stock at The Case Place
Pelican 1610 (Brand New, In Box)
$189 $299.95 list · New · Free shipping (lower 48)
New in the manufacturer box with pre-cut foam glued in, ready to finish cutting to your gear.
Shop the Pelican 1610 →Where the 1620 Wins
The extra two inches of depth make the 1620 one of the most versatile Pelicans ever made. It fits drones with props attached, studio strobes, stacked camera layers, first-aid and trauma kits, ammo cans and bulky tools. It's also the most common size for custom rack and electronics builds, which is why so many come out of government and corporate surplus.
In Stock at The Case Place
$169 $319.95 list · New - Open Box · Free shipping (lower 48)
Brand new, never used, with pre-cut foam. This is one of the deepest-stocked cases in our warehouse.
Shop the Pelican 1620 →💡 Pro Tip: Measure your tallest item, then add an inch for foam above and below. If that's over about 10.5 inches total, go 1620. If it's under, the 1610 saves you weight and money.
Buying in Bulk?
Outfitting a team, a fleet or a retail shelf? We sell the 1620 by the dozen, shipped on a pallet, at well below list.
In Stock at The Case Place
Lot of 12 Pelican 1620 Cases (New)
$1,979 $4,223 list · New - Open Box · Free shipping (lower 48)
Twelve new 1620 Protector cases, shipped LTL freight. Larger quantities available. Just ask.
Shop the Lot of 12 Pelican 1620 Cases →Need help with foam? Our guide to cutting Pelican foam walks through pick-and-pluck and knife methods.