Cameras are a huge investment. Let’s admit it. They’re not very cheap. And it isn’t even the body that costs a lot. Most of the expense in photography comes from additional accessories like lenses. And why shouldn’t they be more expensive? Sometimes, the right lens with the right composition is all it takes to get that award-winning shot. With these expensive gadgets in tow, you’ll need significant protection, which is why we’re rounding up the 7 best camera hard case that will protect your camera during travel or for storage.
Comparison Chart
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | DETAILS | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Olympus CSCH-107 Clamshell Hard Case | Protect your Olympus camera with the Olympus Clamshell Hard Case. | ||
| Nanuk 930-1001 Waterproof Hard Case | Get your camera and accessories the protection they deserve with the Nanuk Waterproof Hard Case. | ||
| Casematix 7 inch Waterproof 360 Action Camera Case | Get a protective case for your action camera in the Casematix Action Camera Case. | ||
| Pelican 1650 Camera Case | Premium equipment needs premium protection, and the best way to achieve that is with the Pelican 1650 Camera Case. | ||
| AxiGear Aluminum Hard Case | Protect your camera gear with style in the AxiGear Aluminum Hard Case. | ||
| HUL Large Hard Case for SLR Cameras | Take your photography level to a whole new level with HUL. This brand guarantees to let you travel with confidence as their hard cases effectively store and preserve the exquisite quality of your fragile camera. You can rest easy with HUL as their consistent quality brings exceptional service to everyone. | ||
| Seahorse 920 Protective Wheeled Case | Take your camera equipment in wheels with the Seahorse Wheeled Case. |
A Detailed Review On The 7 Best Camera Hard Cases
Olympus CSCH-107 Clamshell Hard Case
Protect your Olympus camera with the Olympus Clamshell Hard Case.
Product Highlights
This simple clamshell hard case by Olympus comes in black color with red trims giving it a professional look. It is a handy case since it can only house the camera, making it a perfect travel companion. It comes with a zippered closure and a clamshell mechanism so conveniently opens up to your camera immediately.
The Good
This Olympus hard case has a Carabineer and belt loop at the back, so it’s easy to carry around. Since your camera should be easily accessible to you, this is a great way to keep your camera safe while making it easy to access. It fits the TG models of Olympus and other brands with similar sizes. It has a single compartment for the camera and keeps it snug inside to reduce friction while you move.
The Bad
The primary advantage of the Olympus Clamshell Hard Case is also its biggest downfall. This hard case’s compact design is too small to fit in any other accessories, which other users find slightly troubling. This case will work for you, depending on your priorities for camera protection.
PROs
- It is a portable and compact hard case for your camera
- It has a clamshell design for complete and easy access
- It has a belt loop so you can hook it conveniently on your bag strap or belt loop
CONs
- It doesn’t have extra pockets for other accessories like batteries and wires
- It is designed for an underwater camera, but the case isn’t waterproof
- It is too tight for add-on accessories
Nanuk 930-1001 Waterproof Hard Case
Get your camera and accessories the protection they deserve with the Nanuk Waterproof Hard Case.
Product Highlights
This waterproof hard case is the perfect form of protection for your camera when you travel. Weather is unpredictable, and this case ensures all your equipment is protected by offering this IP67 rated waterproof, dustproof, and shockproof case for your camera. That’s why this case is one of the 7 best camera hard case options for you. It is made of impact-resistant NK-7 resin, so it can survive journeys in challenging conditions. Its patented Powerclaw triple action latches also keep it securely closed with compressive force to keep harmful elements away.
The Good
There are more reasons to love this hard case. It comes with high-quality, durable polyurethane foam to give your camera equipment that extra layer of protection. It has foam squares that you can easily move around, so more fragile items are safe and intact. It also has an automatic purge valve, so it expels air and equalizes pressure automatically during travel.
The Bad
According to some users, if it’s too full, you will notice a gap in the middle, which means the moisture seal is not as efficient as it is claimed to be. Depending on your items’ placement, the Nanuk Waterproof Hard Case maintains a level of flexibility and durability to keep your equipment protected. If you feel you need more space, you may want to rearrange some of the foam and avoid possible damage by filling it to the brim.
PROs
- It is lightweight and extremely protective
- It uses a powerclaw latching system that keeps it tightly shut
- It has high-impact absorption features
CONs
- Some users don’t like the foam in the case
- It doesn’t have a very robust design
- It is expensive
Casematix 7 inch Waterproof 360 Action Camera Case
Get a protective case for your action camera in the Casematix Action Camera Case.
Product Highlights
DSLRs are not the only cameras that need protection. Action cameras like the Theta Z1 360 degree camera need the same quality of protection. This hard case is made of crushproof and high-quality materials featuring a hard shell exterior that keeps your action camera well-protected. The dense foam interiors protect your device from impact while keeping it securely in place.
The Good
The innovative O ring liner of this hard case keeps your camera protected from water, dust, and moisture, while pressure release valves allow air release in changing altitudes during travel. It has a compact and convenient size that’s perfect for travel with heavy-duty latches that are easy to open for convenient accessibility.
The Bad
According to some reviews, the Casematix Action Camera Case is not fully waterproof because water starts seeping when the case is immersed in water for 30 minutes or more. This case’s main objective is to keep your camera protected from the elements. If you plan a trek that requires complete water immersion, you should use a different model with an airtight seal.
PROs
- It is compact and has a travel-friendly design
- It includes an all-metal Carabiner so you can attach it conveniently o your bag strap or clothing
- It has foam to protect it from impacts and to keep it snug inside
CONs
- This case does not fit some of its intended models
- It has no space for additional accessories
- It is not fully waterproof
Pelican 1650 Camera Case
Premium equipment needs premium protection, and the best way to achieve that is with the Pelican 1650 Camera Case.
Product Highlights
All that investment on premium camera equipment needs to be protected in a hardcore like the Pelican 1650 Camera Case. This hard case uses a tongue and groove fit that keeps the case watertight for maximum protection, assuring you complete protection even in the event of water immersion. The pressure equalization valve of this hard case also regulates the pressure automatically during travel.
The Good
This impressive hard case claims to be indestructible, and it’s no wonder why this is one of the 7 best camera hard case options on our list. It is made of Copolymer-Polypropylene shell and stainless steel hardware that’s designed to protect your camera equipment for life. The padded foam keeps your devices protected from shock. This trusted brand is used by military personnel and law enforcement for its extremely durable quality.
The Bad
A minor downside to the Pelican 1650 Camera Case is its price. Since this brand is popular for its extreme durability, it comes with a hefty price tag. But like all other high-quality products, you should treat this as an investment for your equipment and other sensitive items during travel. The protection and security you get from this hard case are definitely worth every penny.
PROs
- It is watertight and keeps your equipment dry
- It is an indestructible protective case
- It uses padded foam for a customized and snug fit
CONs
- The foam falls apart easily
- It is not compact and is huge
- It is pricier than other models
AxiGear Aluminum Hard Case
Protect your camera gear with style in the AxiGear Aluminum Hard Case.
Product Highlights
This Aluminum hard case uses reinforced metal corners for durability and comes with a quick catch mechanism that’s easy to open and secure. Imagine a briefcase but with more protection. That is what the AxiGear Aluminum Hard Case is all about. Suppose you’re worried about whether or not it’s travel friendly–don’t be. It comes with a black carry handle for easy handling and a carry strap when you’re moving around.
The Good
This hard case comes with a pre-cut foam block so you can pull out any shape you wish and keep your items snug in place and protected. This sleek-looking hard case can be used for items other than your camera equipment. Additional foam blocks are also sold separately for this case for your convenience.
The Bad
The AxiGear Aluminum Hard Case, although generally more affordable than other brands, does not a bed of foam at the bottom of the case, which makes protecting all the equipment challenging. Some users report that they had to insert the removed foam to prevent the equipment resting on the hard case. If this workaround is time-consuming for you, we recommend that you buy another set of foam or look around for other models.
PROs
- It uses a quick catch mechanism that’s easy to manage
- It uses reinforced metal corners
- It has a pre-scored foam block that’s easy to use
CONs
- The case has sharp edges
- The clasps are not too durable and may break in continued use
- This case does not have a layer of foam at the bottom of the case
HUL Large Hard Case for SLR Cameras
Take your photography level to a whole new level with HUL. This brand guarantees to let you travel with confidence as their hard cases effectively store and preserve the exquisite quality of your fragile camera. You can rest easy with HUL as their consistent quality brings exceptional service to everyone.
Product Highlights
This hard camera case made it to the list as one of the 7 best camera hard case options because it is specifically designed to protect your cameras during transportation and storage. You will love its hard-shelled protecting cover that preserves the quality of your valuables. It can fit instruments, DSLRs, portable cameras, and other accessories. Aside from that, the product comes with a pressure equalization regulator that creates an airtight feature and makes this case water-resistant.
The Good
This military-style hard case comes with a pelican 1500 design that’s highly customizable. You will surely love to flaunt this hard case wherever you go. Aside from that, its interior comes with pluck foams that keep your fragile valuables safe and secure. It is also convenient to carry, as it only weighs 7 pounds.
The Bad
No matter how good the product may seem, it will always come with several downsides that you should consider. The first concern is that the case is smaller than what was described, which typically misleads the buyers. Aside from that, its plastic material makes the product flimsy and not long-lasting.
PROs
- Waterproof case
- It gives military and stylish vibe
- Easy and convenient to carry
CONs
- The case is not durable enough
- Smaller actual size
Seahorse 920 Protective Wheeled Case
Take your camera equipment in wheels with the Seahorse Wheeled Case.
Product Highlights
Wheels are not limited to personal luggage, although this hard case passes as an excellent suitcase. This hard case is dustproof, airtight, and watertight to protect sensitive equipment from damage. It weighs 7kg and comes with an extendable handle to drag it along behind you saving you a lot of unnecessary effort.
The Good
This hard case has an internal space that fits snugly around your items using its pre-scored Accuform foam. It comes with bright colors that are easy to spot. This case also boasts a lifetime warranty and quality products made specifically in the USA.
The Bad
Foam in the Seahorse Wheeled Case is both a blessing and a curse. Although it does provide excellent protection, it can also be challenging when you’re trying to pull out items from the case. Some users also report that the exterior is made of soft plastic and may not be as durable as other models.
PROs
- It has wheels, so it’s to use during travel
- It has pre-scored accuform foam, so the items are snug inside
- It is dustproof, airtight, and watertight
CONs
- Wheels make a rumbling sound when used in the airport
- The lid doesn’t fully fall backward
- The top foam comes out with the items you pull out
Conclusion
Keeping your camera equipment safe is a lifetime responsibility you have to bear as a photographer. No matter their cost, these cases are your camera equipment’s first and only line of protection from the elements. We hope you found one just for you from our list of the 7 best camera hard case choices. It’s more than just a case. It’s protective gear for your special equipment. Know more about camera cases.