The 27 best hard case brands
Crossrock, Fender and SKB lead our ranking of 27 hard case brands. Compare what each brand makes, visit its official site, or shop it online.
Hard Case brands, ranked
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1
Crossrock
Gig bags and hard cases for guitars, basses and other instruments at prices aimed at working musicians on a budget.
Website: crossrockcase.com |Brands like Crossrock
Popularity 10.0/10
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2
Fender
Fender's hard cases are built to fit its own guitars and basses exactly, so the shell and interior match the instrument's shape.
Website: fender.com |Brands like Fender
Popularity 7.2/10
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3
SKB
Polymer rolling cases, moulded for strength and water resistance, that suit touring gear and flights.
Top products: iSeries 2015-10
Website: skbcases.com |Brands like SKB
Popularity 4.9/10
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4
Gibson
Gibson's guitar cases are made to match its own instruments, with shaped hard shells and plush interiors for each model.
Popularity 4.1/10
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5
TKL
TKL cases cover guitars, keyboards and studio gear, with padded shells designed for frequent transport.
Website: tkl.com |Brands like TKL
Popularity 3.7/10
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6
Gretsch
It's the story of a firm that started making drums in 1883 in Brooklyn, New York. Gretsch has grown into one of the world's most well-known producers of expert drums and percussion instruments. Artists of many genres and generations have paid tribute to them. Many of today's most prominent guitarists and bands choose Gretsch guitars. You can now figure out why. Visit their site to see what they have to present, including an extensive range of guitars and basses, free video tutorials, artist exhibits, background, and more.
Website: gretschguitars.com |Brands like Gretsch
Popularity 3.6/10
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7
ESP
ESP's hard cases match its guitar range, from fitted shells for custom shop models to simpler cases for everyday use.
Website: espguitars.com |Brands like ESP
Popularity 3.2/10
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8
Ibanez
Cases for Ibanez's slim, thin-bodied electrics, with neck supports and latch-lock hardware.
Website: ibanez.com |Brands like Ibanez
Popularity 2.9/10
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9
Martin
Martin's cases are moulded to the shape of its acoustic guitars, with hard shells that protect the top and neck.
Popularity 2.6/10
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10
Road Runner
Moulded shells sized for Road Runner's guitar and keyboard models, with heavy-duty latches and corner protectors for touring.
Website: roadrunnersports.com |Brands like Road Runner
Popularity 2.5/10
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11
Jackson
Jackson's hard cases are shaped to the pointed bodies of its rock guitars and basses.
Popularity 2.3/10
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12
PRS
Contoured cases for PRS's carved-top electrics, with neck rests and a secure latch system for gigging.
Website: prsguitarseurope.com |Brands like PRS
Popularity 2.0/10
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13
Dean
Hard cases cut for Dean's V and ML body shapes, with plush lining and reinforced handles for gigging.
Website: shopatdean.com |Brands like Dean
Popularity 2.0/10
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14
Charvel
Charvel cases are built for its bold, pointed guitar shapes, with fitted shells and padded interiors.
Website: charvel.com |Brands like Charvel
Popularity 1.9/10
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15
Guild
Dreadnought-shaped cases for Guild's jumbo acoustics, with rounded corners and sturdy hinges for touring.
Website: guildguitars.com |Brands like Guild
Popularity 1.8/10
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16
Epiphone
Epiphone cases fit its Les Paul and acoustic models, with hard shells at a lower price than many rivals.
Website: epiphone.com |Brands like Epiphone
Popularity 1.8/10
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17
Schecter
Schecter cases are fitted to its metal and rock guitar shapes, with hard shells and padded linings.
Popularity 1.8/10
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18
Ovation
Round-back Ovation bowl shapes sit snugly in these cases, with padded neck blocks for travel.
Popularity 1.7/10
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19
EVH
Fitted foam cutouts for EVH's striped and Wolfgang guitars, with a tough exterior for touring.
Website: evhgear.com |Brands like EVH
Popularity 1.6/10
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20
Peavey
Peavey cases are sturdy, practical hard and soft cases for amps, guitars and basses at a moderate price.
Website: peavey.com |Brands like Peavey
Popularity 1.5/10
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21
Washburn
Lightweight shells with zip pockets for accessories, sized to Washburn's acoustic, electric and bass lines.
Website: washburn.com |Brands like Washburn
Popularity 1.4/10
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22
Stagg
Stagg cases and gig bags are affordable options for guitars, ukuleles and percussion, with padded protection.
Website: staggmusic.com |Brands like Stagg
Popularity 1.2/10
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23
Takamine
Cutaway-shaped cases for Takamine's acoustic-electrics, with a fitted neck support and lightweight shell.
Website: takamine.com |Brands like Takamine
Popularity 1.1/10
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24
Bam
Bam cases are lightweight, shock-absorbing hard shells for string and wind instruments.
Website: bamcases.com |Brands like Bam
Popularity 1.0/10
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25
Yamaha
Yamaha cases fit its guitars, keyboards and wind instruments, with hard shells and padded interiors.
Website: usa.yamaha.com |Brands like Yamaha
Popularity 1.0/10
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26
LANIKAI
Lanikai cases are sized for its ukuleles, from soprano to baritone, with padded hard shells.
Website: lanikaiukuleles.com |Brands like LANIKAI
Popularity 1.0/10
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27
Penn-Elcom
The Penn Elcom Corporation is a multinational corporation that manufactures electrical products and other electronics. The company has become the leading supplier of wire and cable divisions, LED lighting, audio cables, connectors, racks, and stands. Penn Elcom's primary business market...
Website: pennelcomonline.com |Brands like Penn-Elcom
Popularity 0.9/10
Official websites and social accounts
| Brand | Website | X / Twitter | YouTube | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Crossrock | crossrockcase.com | /Crossrockcases | crossrock.cases | – | Crossrock Cases |
| Fender | fender.com | /Fender | fender | @Fender | fendermusical |
| SKB | skbcases.com | /skbcases | skbcases | @skbcases | – |
| TKL | tkl.com | – | – | – | – |
| Gretsch | gretschguitars.com | /GretschGuitars | officialgretsch | @gretschusa | gretschguitars |
| ESP | espguitars.com | – | – | – | – |
| Ibanez | ibanez.com | – | – | – | – |
| Road Runner | roadrunnersports.com | /RoadRunnerSports | – | – | – |
Hard Case Buying Guide
When it comes to protecting your valuable equipment, a hard case is the way to go. Whether you're traveling with cameras, musical instruments, or sensitive electronics, a hard case can keep your gear safe from damage. But with so many options on the market, it can be hard to choose the right one for your needs.
Things to Consider
Before you buy a hard case, there are several important factors to consider. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Type of Equipment: What kind of equipment will you be carrying in the case? Cameras, musical instruments, and electronics all have different sizes and shapes, so you'll need a case that's specifically designed to fit your gear.
- Size: Measure your equipment and make sure you get a case that's the right size. You don't want a case that's too big, as your equipment might shift during transport, but you also don't want a case that's too small, as it won't provide adequate protection.
- Protection: Look for a case that's made from a durable material, such as polypropylene or ABS plastic. The case should have some give, so it can absorb impact, but it should also be rigid enough to prevent crushing. You may also want a case that's waterproof or dustproof to keep your equipment safe from the elements.
- Portability: How will you be using the case? If you're traveling a lot, you'll want a case that's easy to carry or roll. Look for handles or wheels that make it easy to transport, as well as a weight that's manageable for you.
- Customization: Do you need a case that can be customized? For example, some cases have foam inserts that can be cut to fit your specific equipment, while others have pre-cut foam that can be removed to create a custom layout. Consider whether you need this type of customization when choosing a case.
- Price: Hard cases can range in price from around $20 to over $1,000. Look for a case that meets your needs and budget, but don't skimp on protection for your valuable equipment.
Types of Hard Cases
There are several types of hard cases on the market, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the most common types:
Flight Cases
Flight cases are designed for air travel and are often used by musicians, DJs, and touring artists. They're built to withstand the rigors of air travel and are made from heavy-duty materials like aluminum or fiberglass. Flight cases can be customized to fit your specific equipment and can also have features like retractable handles and wheels for easy transport. The downside of flight cases is that they tend to be heavy and bulky, so they're not ideal for everyday use.
Pelican Cases
Pelican cases are a popular choice for photographers, hunters, and adventurers. They're made from a durable polymer and are crushproof, waterproof, and dustproof. Pelican cases come in a range of sizes and can be customized with foam inserts that can be cut to fit your gear. They also have features like pressure-release valves and locking mechanisms to keep your equipment safe. The downside of Pelican cases is that they can be heavy, and some users have reported that the latches can be difficult to operate.
Rack Cases
Rack cases are designed for audio equipment like amplifiers and mixing consoles. They have a standard size of 19 inches wide and come in various heights. Rack cases are often made from aluminum or ABS plastic and have handles for easy transport. They can be customized with foam inserts to fit your gear, and some models have built-in fans to keep your equipment cool. The downside of rack cases is that they're not ideal for non-audio equipment and can be heavy.
Gun Cases
Gun cases are designed to protect firearms during transport. They're made from a durable material like hard plastic or aluminum and often have foam inserts to keep your gun secure. Some gun cases are also waterproof and dustproof. Gun cases come in various sizes, depending on the type of gun you're carrying. The downside of gun cases is that they're not ideal for other types of equipment and can be heavy.
Top Brands
When it comes to buying a hard case, there are several top brands to consider. Here are some of the most popular:
| Brand | Features |
|---|---|
| Pelican | Waterproof, dustproof, and crushproof polymer material. Range of sizes and custom foam inserts available. |
| SKB | Durable polypropylene material. Range of sizes and custom foam inserts available. Lifetime warranty. |
| Plano | Affordable hard cases for guns and other equipment. Durable polypropylene material. Range of sizes and custom foam inserts available. |
| Nanuk | Crushproof and waterproof polymer material. Range of sizes and custom foam inserts available. PowerClaw latches for easy opening and closing. |
| HPRC | Waterproof and dustproof hard cases. Made from high-performance resin. Lifetime warranty. |
Tips for Using a Hard Case
Once you've chosen a hard case, there are some tips to keep in mind to ensure you get the most out of it:
- Organize Your Gear: Use dividers or foam inserts to keep your gear organized and secured in the case.
- Lock It Up: Many hard cases have locking mechanisms to keep your gear secure. Use a lock to prevent theft.
- Check Your Case: Before traveling, make sure your case is in good condition and all latches and locks are working properly.
- Handle With Care: Even though a hard case can protect your gear, it's still important to handle it with care. Don't drop or throw the case, and avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or weather.
Conclusion
A hard case is an essential accessory for anyone who needs to transport valuable equipment. By considering factors like the type of equipment, size, protection, portability, customization, and price, you can choose a hard case that meets your needs and budget. And by following tips like organizing your gear and checking your case before travel, you can use your hard case to keep your equipment safe and secure for years to come.
