IP67 Rating: Pelican Cases vs. Non-Pelican Protective Cases
Below is a practical comparison of IP67-rated Pelican cases versus other IP67 (non-Pelican) hard cases and non-IP-rated “weatherproof” cases. This focuses on what IP67 really guarantees, and what typically differs in real-world durability.
What IP67 Means (Plain English)
- 6 = Dust tight (no dust intrusion)
- 7 = Water immersion protection (up to 1 meter for 30 minutes, when properly closed)
In other words: an IP67 case is designed to keep out fine dust and survive short-term submersion—much more than “splash resistant.”
Pelican (IP67): What Usually Sets Them Apart
Common Strengths
- Consistent sealing performance (quality gaskets / O-ring style sealing)
- Pressure equalization features (helps with opening after altitude/temp changes and can support water-tight use)
- High-impact shell durability (crush/impact resistance tends to be excellent)
- Large ecosystem (sizes, foam options, replacement parts, accessories)
Tradeoffs
- Price: typically higher than many alternatives
- Weight: some Pelican lines are very rugged but heavier (their lighter lines reduce this)
Other IP67 Cases (Non-Pelican): What to Expect
Many non-Pelican hard cases also claim or certify IP67. These can be excellent values, but performance can vary more by brand and model.
Typical Pros vs. Pelican
- Lower cost for similar on-paper ingress protection
- Foam included more often (or lower-cost interior options)
Typical Cons vs. Pelican
- Fit & finish can vary (seal consistency, lid alignment, overall refinement)
- Hardware longevity can vary (latches, hinges, and valves may be less robust on cheaper models)
- Warranty/support differences (often not as strong or not as proven)
What If a Case Isn’t IP67?
Some cases are marketed as “weatherproof” or “water resistant” without a formal IP rating. That usually means rain/splashes are fine, but immersion is not.
- Non-IP rated / “water-resistant”: likely OK for light rain, not for dunking
- Lower IP (e.g., IP65/IP66): better against sprays/jets, still not submersion-rated
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Pelican (IP67) | Non-Pelican IP67 Cases | Non-IP Rated Cases |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dust protection | Excellent | Varies by brand/model | Often limited/unknown |
| Immersion waterproofing | Yes (when properly closed) | Yes (if truly IP67-certified) | No |
| Shell ruggedness | Typically very high | Medium to high (varies) | Low to medium |
| Latch/hinge durability | Typically very high | Varies (often lower on budget cases) | Varies widely |
| Price | Higher | Usually lower | Lowest |
| Best use case | Pro gear / high-value equipment | Budget-friendly protection with IP goals | Light duty, minimal water exposure |
Practical Recommendation
- Choose Pelican if you want the most proven durability, consistent sealing, and long-term hardware reliability.
- Choose another true IP67 case if you’re optimizing budget—but pay attention to latch quality, gasket design, and warranty.
- Avoid non-IP rated cases if you expect real waterproof performance (immersion or heavy exposure).