Pelican Comparison
By The Case Place Team · Updated October 2026 · 7 min read
If you've shopped for a Pelican case, you've run into the two big product lines: Protector (the 1000-series models like the 1520, 1620 and 1650) and Storm (the iM-series like the iM2200, iM2750 and iM3075). They look similar, they're both waterproof, and they're both made in the USA. So what's actually different, and which one should you buy?
We sell hundreds of both lines every year, so here's the short version from people who handle these cases every day.
TL;DR — Quick Answer
The real difference is the latch. Protector cases use Pelican's classic double-throw latches and polypropylene shells. Storm cases use push-button Press & Pull™ latches and a lighter HPX® resin shell. Both are waterproof, crushproof and dustproof. Pick a Protector if you want the most rugged, field-proven latch. Pick a Storm if you open your case all day and want one-handed access.
Pelican Protector vs. Storm at a Glance
| Feature | Protector (1000 series) | Storm (iM series) |
|---|---|---|
| Latch | Double-throw latches | Press & Pull™ push-button latches |
| Shell material | Heavy-duty polypropylene | HPX® high-impact resin |
| Waterproof / crushproof | Yes | Yes |
| Pressure equalization valve | Yes | Yes |
| Interior options | No foam, pick foam, TrekPak™, padded dividers | No foam, pick foam, TrekPak™, padded dividers |
| Hinge pins | Stainless steel | Corrosion-resistant alloy |
| Made in USA | Yes | Yes |
| Popular sizes | 1150, 1520, 1550, 1610, 1620, 1650 | iM2200, iM2600, iM2750, iM2975, iM3075 |
1. Latches: The Biggest Difference
Protector cases use the double-throw latch Pelican has been building for decades: you flip the latch over the lid lip, then press it down a second time to lock. It's loud, it's positive, and it holds tight even through serious drops. Some owners say they can feel the seal clamp down.
Storm cases use Press & Pull™ latches. Close the lid and they lock automatically. To open, you press the button and pull. They're quieter and faster, and much easier with gloves or one free hand. That's why photographers, techs and anyone who opens a case dozens of times a day tend to prefer Storm.
2. Material and Weight
Protector shells are heavy-duty polypropylene. Storm shells are HPX® resin, which Pelican positions as the lighter option at a similar size. In practice, comparable models are close on paper. A 1620 weighs about 24.6 lbs with foam and an iM2750 about 23.4 lbs. The Storm shell has a slightly smoother, harder feel.
3. Sizes and Shapes
The two lines don't map one-to-one. A few close equivalents:
- Pelican 1620 ↔ Storm iM2750: both mid-size rolling cases. The 1620 interior is 21.48 x 16.42 x 12.54 in, and the iM2750 interior is 22.00 x 17.00 x 12.70 in.
- Pelican 1520 ↔ Storm iM2300 / iM2400: medium handheld cases for pistols, drones and camera kits.
- Pelican 1650 ↔ Storm iM2975: long rolling cases. The 1650 is 28.57 in long inside and the iM2975 is 29.00 in.
See every interior dimension in our Pelican Protector size chart and Pelican Storm size chart.
4. Price
New from retail, comparable Protector and Storm models land in a similar price range. Buying surplus is where you really save. Most of our stock comes from government, corporate and overstock lots, so the price is a fraction of list:
In Stock at The Case Place
Pelican 1620 Protector (New, Open Box)
$169 $319.95 list · New - Open Box · Free shipping (lower 48)
The most popular mid-size Protector rolling case. Brand new and never used, with pre-cut foam. We have a deep stock of these.
Shop the Pelican 1620 Protector →In Stock at The Case Place
$152 $288.95 list · Used, Grade A/B · Free shipping (lower 48)
The Storm-line equivalent of the 1620, with Press & Pull latches, wheels and a telescoping handle. Inspected and fully functional.
Shop the Pelican Storm iM2750 →Which Should You Buy?
Choose a Pelican Protector if…
- You want the most proven, rugged latch for shipping, airline checking or field use
- Your case stays closed most of the time (storage, transport, go-bags)
- You want the widest range of sizes and accessories
Choose a Pelican Storm if…
- You open and close the case constantly (photo, video, test equipment, tools)
- You want quiet, one-handed latches
- You prefer the Storm sizes, like the deep iM2875 or the large iM3075 transport case
💡 Pro Tip: You can't go wrong either way. Both lines are waterproof and built to the same mil-spec standards. If you're torn, pick the size first, then whichever line has that size in stock at the best price.
Browse every Pelican we have in stock, both Protector and Storm, in our Pelican collection.