Summary
- The new HPX material formulation offers increased impact resistance.
- The company reports a 12% improvement in impact strength.
- The series adds new push-button latches and more durable wheels.
- New in-case organization options and the ModLight Pivot are also included.
- Availability will begin through authorized distributors and professional equipment suppliers.
Pelican has introduced the new Next Generation Protector series, upgrading one of its most recognizable lines of hard protective cases.
The announcement concerns the Protector cases, the series many photographers and professionals simply call a “Pelican case,” as it has become closely associated with transporting and protecting sensitive equipment. The company says the new generation is not just a visual refresh, but a re-engineering of the platform with a focus on durability, usability and organization.
The change is especially relevant for photographers, filmmakers, drone operators, technicians and professionals who transport expensive equipment in difficult conditions. The Protector cases trace their history back to 1976, while Pelican presents them as one of the core product lines that helped define the hard protective case category.
New material with increased durability
At the heart of the new series is a new HPX material formulation which, according to Pelican, offers improved performance against impacts and demanding use. The company says laboratory testing showed a 12% increase in impact strength compared with the previous generation.
Pelican also notes that the new formulation offers better dimensional stability when the case is under load. This is important for maintaining the O-ring seal, especially during high-altitude transport or demanding missions where pressure and weight can affect the structure of a case.
Better resistance to sunlight and long-term use
The new series also focuses on resistance to ultraviolet radiation. Pelican says it has used an improved color process so the cases can better retain their physical properties and color stability after prolonged exposure to sunlight.
This is particularly relevant for professionals working outdoors, during travel, on productions or on assignments where equipment remains exposed for hours to high temperatures and strong light.
New latches, wheels and internal organization
Beyond the material, Pelican has also improved the everyday use of the cases. The new series includes upgraded push-button latches, aiming for easier opening and more secure locking. According to B&H, their design draws from the latches used on the Storm and Air series, while the change also helps when using gloves.
On larger cases, Pelican has integrated more durable wheels with stainless steel bearings to better support heavy loads. The company also adds new lid organization options, including systems such as Gridpoint, which turns the inside of the lid into a storage area for hook-and-loop or MOLLE-style pouches.
ModLight Pivot for in-case lighting
Another addition is the ModLight Pivot, a low-profile light that installs inside the case without tools. Pelican says it features an adjustable head and can provide up to 18 hours of illumination, which can be useful for night shoots, field productions or fast access to equipment in dark environments.
Which models are included
According to B&H, the core of the update includes the Protector 1400, 1510, 1560 and 1650 models. For the 1510 and 1560 Studio Cases, there are also references to improved mobility and organization, while Gridpoint Panel Kits are listed for selected models such as the 1510, 1560 and 1650.
Pelican says the Next Generation Protector series and its accompanying accessories will become available through authorized distributors and professional equipment suppliers this summer.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Next Generation Protector series?
It is the new generation of Pelican’s Protector hard cases, with changes to the material, latches, organization and available accessories.
How much tougher are the new cases?
Pelican reports a 12% increase in impact strength based on laboratory testing.
Who is the new series for?
It is aimed at photographers, filmmakers, drone operators, technicians and professionals who transport equipment in demanding conditions.
What is the ModLight Pivot?
It is an in-case light for Pelican cases, with tool-free installation, an adjustable head and up to 18 hours of battery life.
What we think
The update to the Protector series shows that Pelican is not limiting itself to a simple design change, but is trying to improve areas that matter in everyday use. For photographers and creators who frequently travel with expensive equipment, the changes in durability, latches, organization and in-case lighting are practically relevant.
