Electric guitars are typically expensive. If you are a rush roadie or join gigs too often, protecting the guitar against bumps, bruises, mild to moderate impact is a real concern for you. Even if you store your guitar at home or attend open mic sessions around town, you still need a durable hardshell case or gig bag to protect it.
Not only impact in roads or flight, while home-storing, but humidity alone can also damage. Warp caused by extreme weather conditions may leave your guitar out of tune. There is also the risk of humbuckers damage, single-coil pickups, or anything electrical. To avoid such a catastrophic event, you need a perfect case or soft bag for your electric guitar.
In this article, I have hand-picked the bests of all categories so you can compare them. This article also includes the best of guitar cases and a complete buying guide. Keep reading!
Table of Contents
- The Best Electric Guitar Cases
- Best Electric Guitar Cases by Type
- Top Hard-Shell Cases for Electric Guitars
- Top Gig Bags for Electric Guitars
- Top Cheap Cases for Electric Guitars
- Top Cases for Stratocaster-Telecaster Guitars
- Top Cases for Double Electric Guitars
- Top Cases for Electric Bass Guitars
- Top Coffin Cases for Electric Guitars
- Top Electric Guitar Cases for Flight
- Top Electric Guitar Cases for Travel
- Top Cases for Semi-Hollow Body Electric Guitars
- Top Cases for Les Paul Electric Guitars
- Top Hybrid Cases for Electric Guitars
- What are The Best Electric Guitar Case Brands?
- Electric Guitar Case Buying Guide
The Best Electric Guitar Cases
Both hard shell electric guitar cases and gig bags offer more or less protection to your instrument. Although gig bags are less in protection, they have unique portability features, so best for travel. In comparison, hard cases are known for better protection and durability, so you may rely on them for extensive movements during gigs, flights, or roads. The gig bags are cheaper than the hardshell cases built with softer nylon or nylon-like material and easy to carry around town—hardshell cases made for specific usage-extensive gigging, roadshows, extensive usage, etc. Benefits the hard cases offer include better security, more protection against bumps and bruises.
After choosing the best type based on usage, look for a guitar case that fits your guitar model. Although many electric guitars are universal fit, you must purchase the one that best fits your guitar. In the case of rare and unique shaped guitars as Flying V, you better be cautious (will it fit?) before taking a final decision.
“THE BEST ELECTRIC GUITAR CASE IS – A GUITAR CASE THAT FITS YOUR GUITAR AND OFFERS ADEQUATE PROTECTION“
Keep these important features in mind while we are jumping to my hand-picked lineup so that you can buy the best one for you. Let’s take a peek at the top guitar cases for different types of electric guitars:
Best Electric Guitar Cases by Type
Top Hard-Shell Cases for Electric Guitars
| Case Name | Fender Deluxe Molder Stratocaster – Telecaster Electric Guitar Case – Black | Gator Cases Deluxe ABS Molded Case for Les Paul Single-Cutaway Electric Guitars (GC-LPS) |
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| Price | Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Amazon |
| Size Dimension | Length 104.8 cm, Height 12.7 cm, Lower Bout Width 33.95 cm, Middle Bout Width 24.1 cm, Upper Bout Width 26.3 cm, Overall Length 105.9 cm | Length 47cm, Height 8.9″, Lower Bout Width 33.52 cm, Middle Bout Width 19.30 cm, Upper Bout Width 23.87 cm, Overall Length 99.7 cm |
| Weight | 6.6 lbs | 7.25 lbs |
| Pros | 1. Military-grade polyethylene exterior 2. TSA approved locking latch 3. EPS foam padding with high-grade polyester plush lining 4. Custom fit (Strate/Tele) Extended reach neck cradle | 1. Ultra-Durable ABS Plastic molded exterior. 2. Rigid EPS foam core with plush lining 3. Heavy-duty, comfortable handlebar |
| Cons | 1. The accessory compartment cannot be open with the guitar inside | 1. Hardware ensemble is average |
Top Gig Bags for Electric Guitars
| Case Name | Gator Cases 4G Series Gig Bag For Electric Guitars | ChromaCast CC-EXTPB-BAG |
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| Price | Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Amazon |
| Size Dimension | Length 49.5 cm, Height 8.25 cm, Lower Bout Width 35.5 cm, Middle Bout Width 33.02 cm Upper Bout Width 27.9 cm, Overall Length: 102.8 cm | Height 6.3 cm, Lower Bout Width 43.2 cm, Overall Length 124.4 cm |
| Weight | 2.89 lbs | 3.5 lbs |
| Pros | 1. Fits most standard size electric guitars 2. Premium construction with heavily padded interior 3. Internal headstock and bridge reinforcement for preventing damage 4. Backpack style straps with back padding for comfortable carry | 1. Excellent for exceptional shapes such as V, Z, Explorer, Resort, Warlock, and Mockingbird 2. Rubber bumper protected exterior 3. Ultra-thick padded interior 4. A Velcro neck reinforced straps inside for secure hold 5. Back straps and comfortable side handles for easy carry |
| Cons | 1. Backpack straps are not flexible | 1. Zipper is not heavy-duty |
Top Cheap Cases for Electric Guitars
| Case Name | ChromaCast CC-EHC Electric Guitar Hard Case | CAHAYA Electric Guitar Bag |
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| Price | Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Amazon |
| Size Dimension | Height 8.25 cm, Lower Bout Width 33.6 cm, Upper Bout Width: 35.5 cm, Overall Length: 104.1 cm | 106 cm x 36 cm x 8 cm, fits for 40 and 41-inch Electric Guitar |
| Weight | 10 lbs | 2.74 lbs |
| Pros | 1. Wooden hard case Plush lined interior 2. Extra Neck and Bridge padding 3. Btable with bumper protection on bottom and sides | 1. 12mm thick padding all over the interior 2. Heavy-duty hook and loop tape to secure the guitar, reinforced interior to hold the headstock. 3. Adjustable backpack straps with back handle loop 4. Reinforced carry handle for easy carry during travel 5. Six spacious pockets with an organizer for all your accessories |
| Cons | 1. Hinges and handles are heavy-duty internal storage is not spacious | 1. It’s a light-duty gig bag Not fit Electric basses |
Top Cases for Stratocaster-Telecaster Guitars
| Case Name | Gator Cases Molded Flight Case For Strat/Tele (GTSA-GTRELEC) | Fender Deluxe Molded Case for Stratocaster and Telecaster |
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| Price | Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Amazon |
| Size Dimension | Length 48.8 cm, Int Height 8.25 cm, Lower Bout Width 32.3 cm, Middle Bout Width 32.3 cm, Upper Bout Width 32.3 cm, Overall Length: 100.3 cm | Length 43.1 cm, Int Height 3.81 cm, Lower Bout Width 33.9 cm, Middle Bout Width 24.13 cm, Upper Bout Width 26.3 cm, Overall Length: 99.6 cm |
| Weight | 8 lbs | 6.6 lbs |
| Pros | 1. ATA military-grade polyethylene exterior 2. Rigid EPS Foam padding with thick black plush lining 3. TSA recognized locking latch 4. Ergo-Grip Injection Molded handle 5. Extended Reach Neck Cradle | 1. ATA military-grade polyethylene exterior 2. EPS foam padding with high-quality polyester plush lining 3. TSA recognized locking latch 4. Custom-fit most Strat/Teles 5. Ergo-Grip Injection Molded handle 6. Extended reach protective neck cradle |
| Cons | 1. Internal storage compartment is small | 1. Internal storage is not user-friendly |
Top Cases for Double Electric Guitars
| Case Name | Gator Cases Pro-Go Ultimate Double Guitar Gig Bag | ChromaCast Pro Series Double Electric Guitar Padded Gig Bag |
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| Price | Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Amazon |
| Size Dimension | Length 49.5 cm, Int Height 8 cm, Lower Bout Width 36.5 cm, Upper Bout Width 31.5 cm, Overall Length: 109 cm | Height 15.2 cm, Lower Bout Width 40.6 cm, Overall Length: 104.1 cm |
| Weight | 3 lbs | 4.8 lbs |
| Pros | 1. Heavy- densely padded sidewalls for protection 2. Micro-fleece plush interior adjustable and removable backpack straps 3. Body block internal shock absorber 4. Rain cover | 1. 20mm thick internal padding with neck cushion for protection 2. Rubber bottom bumpers for added protection 3. Heavy-duty adjustable back straps 4. Double handle and heavy-duty zippers |
| Cons | 1. Its a bit heavy | 1. The backstrap is not padded enough |
Top Cases for Electric Bass Guitars
| Case Name | Gator Cases Transit Series Bass Guitar Gig Bag | AW Electric Bass Guitar Hard Case |
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| Price | Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Amazon |
| Size Dimension | Length 58.4 cm, Int Height 8.9 cm, Lower Bout Width 37.4 cm, Upper Bout Width 33.02 cm, Overall Length: 123.2 cm | 122 cm x 39 cm x 9 cm |
| Weight | 5 lbs | 13.97 lbs |
| Pros | 1. Blended fabric exterior that protects from extreme weather conditions 2. 20mm thick foam adjustable and removable padding interior with plush micro-fleece lining 3. Large front zippered pocket removable comfy grip carry handle with backpack straps | 1. Strong wooden construction for durability 2. Internal foam padding with a soft plush interior that protects against shock and bruises 3. Molded handle, chrome hardware, and bumpers for added protection 4. PU leather surface for easy cleaning |
| Cons | 1. The backpack straps are weak | 1. Vinyl covering is soft, hence prone to damage |
Top Coffin Cases for Electric Guitars
| Case Name | G-185R Universal Coffin Case for Electric Guitars | B-195 Coffin Bass Guitar Case |
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| Price | Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Amazon |
| Size Dimension | Interior dimension: 109.2 cm x 43.1 x 7.62 cm | Interior dimension: 132 cm x 8.1 cm x 8.9 cm |
| Weight | 12.12 lbs | 14.27 lbs |
| Pros | 1. Custom-fit coffin case for all standard size electric guitars 2. Solid multi-ply wooden construction with durable black PVC wrapping 3. Coffin’s red velvet diamond-tuck quilted interior 4. Shock-resistant velvet pillow so that your guitar rest in peace | 1. Fits most basses and certain BC Rich guitars such as Warlock, Warbeast, etc. 2. Solid multi-ply wooden construction with durable black PVC wrapping 3. Coffin’s red velvet diamond-tuck quilted interior 4. Shock-resistant velvet pillow so that your guitar rest in peace |
| Cons | 1. None | 1. The seam on the exterior is not long-lasting |
Top Electric Guitar Cases for Flight
| Case Name | Fender Deluxe Molded P/J Bass Guitar Case | Gator Cases Molded Flight Case For Double Cut-Away Guitars (GTSA-GTRSG) |
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| Price | Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Amazon |
| Size Dimension | Length 44.45 cm, Int Height 3.81 cm, Lower Bout Width 34.9 cm, Middle Bout Width 24.7 cm, Upper Bout Width 27.9 cm, Overall Length: 118.1 cm | Length 45.08 cm, Int Height 5.71 cm, Lower Bout Width 33.02 cm, Middle Bout Width 22.86 cm, Upper Bout Width 26.6 cm, Overall Length: 102.87 cm |
| Weight | 15 lbs | 13 lbs |
| Pros | 1. ATA military-grade molded plastic exterior 2. TSA locking center latch 3. EPS foam padding interior with high-quality polyester plush interior 4. Extended reach neck cradle 5. Ergo-grip injection molded handle 6. Rugged plastic molded feet | 1. ATA military-grade molded plastic exterior 2. TSA locking center latch 3. EPS foam padding interior with plush lining 4. Extended reach neck cradle 5. Ergo-grip injection molded handle |
| Cons | 1. A bit pricey | 1. The interior compartment is not spacious |
Top Electric Guitar Cases for Travel
| Case Name | Ibanez Powerpad Electric Guitar Gig Bag | Gator Cases Pro-Go Ultimate Guitar Gig Bag |
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| Price | Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Amazon |
| Size Dimension | 108 cm x 43 cm x 7.51 cm | Length 49.5 cm, Int Body Height 8.9 cm, Lower Bout Width 37.4 cm, Middle Bout Width 32.3 cm, Upper Bout Width 31.75 cm, Overall Length 100.3 cm |
| Weight | 2.43 lbs | 6.5 lbs |
| Pros | 1. 15mm thick padding on the bottom and sides 2. Four storage pockets for all the gig essentials 3. Neck reinforcement belts that securely hold the neck 4. Convenient handle on the backside | 1. Densely padded sidewalls 2. Micro-fleece interior 3. Body Block Internal Shock Absorber 4. Multi-adjustable and removable backpack straps |
| Cons | 1. The handle is not heavy-duty | 1. Its a bit heavy |
Top Cases for Semi-Hollow Body Electric Guitars
| Case Name | Gator Cases Deluxe ABS Molded Case for 335 Style Guitars | Crossrock Wooden Case for 335 Style 6 Strings Electric Guitars |
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| Price | Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Amazon |
| Size Dimension | Length 112.5 cm, Int Body Height 40.9 cm, Lower Bout Width 40.9 cm, Middle Bout Width 27.9 cm, Upper Bout Width 32.7 cm, and Overall Length 112.5 cm | Length: 49 cm, Upper Bout 32 cm, Waist 30.0 cm, Lower Bout 43 cm, Int Height 12cm, Overall Length 109.5 cm |
| Weight | 11 lbs | 10.33 lbs |
| Pros | 1. Ultra-durable ABS plastic exterior and long-lasting aluminum valances 2. Eps foam padding with plush material lining 3. Strong and comfortable handle for easy carry 4. Spacious internal storage compartment | 1. Durable Tweed exterior 2. Adequate foam padding with red plush lining interior 3. Deluxe gold latches, hinges, gold buckles |
| Cons | 1. Material used in latches are not premium | 1. Tweed quality is not premium |
Top Cases for Les Paul Electric Guitars
| Case Name | Gator Hard-Shell Wood Case for Gibson Les Paul Guitars (GWE-LPS-BLK) | Crossrock Hardshell Arch Top Wooden Case for Les Paul Electric Guitars |
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| Price | Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Amazon |
| Size Dimension | Length 53.9 cm, Int Body Height 6.9 cm, Lower Bout Width 35.56 cm, Middle Bout Width 24.76 cm, Upper Bout Width 25.4 cm and Overall Length 101.6 cm | Length 48.5 cm, Upper Bout 24 cm, Lower Bout 34 cm, Int Height 10 cm, Waist 22 cm, Overall Length: 101.5 cm |
| Weight | 10 lbs | 8.43 lbs |
| Pros | 1. Durable lawn wood exterior, 2. Tolex PVC covering soft Padded with plush interior 3. Extended neck cradle 4. Stylish with contrast stitching 5. Ergonomic handle | 1. Ultra-durable arched top design, 5-ply wooden core exterior with Black PVC covering 2. Comfortable handle 3. Upgraded deluxe gold latches, hinges 4. Thick foam padding with Deep blue plush lining 5. Large lidded accessory compartment and padded neck rest |
| Cons | 1. Not meant for flight | 1. Not sturdy enough for heavy road use |
Top Hybrid Cases for Electric Guitars
| Case Name | MONO Vertigo Electric Bass Hybrid Gig Bag | Gator Cases Lightweight Polyfoam Guitar Case |
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| Price | Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Amazon |
| Size Dimension | Length 40.64 cm, Int Body Height 7.62 cm, Lower Bout Width 36.8 cm, Upper Bout Width 31.75 cm, Overall Length 121.9 cm | Length 53.3 cm, Int Body Height 7.62 cm, Lower Bout Width 34.6 cm, Upper Bout Width 34.6 cm, and Overall Length 120.6 cm |
| Weight | 5.8 lbs | 7.8 lbs |
| Pros | 1. Water-resistant Shark-skin exterior 2. Top-loading system allows easy stand-up insertion and removal 3. EVA insole and molded rubber outsole for added protection 4. Headlock neck suspension: No buckling or belting required 5. Multi-compartment storage facility | 1. Sturdy Nylon exterior 2. Thick EPS foam core with plush lining 3. Long-lasting nylon web carry handle 4. Removable shoulder straps for comfortable carry 5. Interior and exterior storage compartments |
| Cons | 1. A bit pricey | 2. Not meant for extensive road use |
What are The Best Electric Guitar Case Brands?
Top Gator Electric Guitar Cases
| Case Name | Gator cases GC-ELECTRIC-A Deluxe ABS Molded Case for Stratocaster and Telecaster Style | Gator Cases Hard-Shell Wood Case for Standard Electric Guitars (GWE-ELECTRIC) |
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| Price | Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Amazon |
| Size Dimension | Length 47.62 cm, Int Body Height 6.98 cm, Lower Bout Width 32.38 cm, Middle Bout Width 32.38 cm, Upper Bout Width 32.38 cm, Overall Length 100.96 cm | Length 48.2 cm, Height 10.7 cm, Lower Bout Width 30.4 cm, Middle Bout Width 30.4 cm, Upper Bout Width 30.4 cm, Overall Length: 108.5 cm |
| Weight | 11 lbs | 8.4 lbs |
| Pros | 1. Durable ABS plastic exterior 2. Long-lasting aluminum valance 3. Heavy-duty through-bolted handle 4. Rigid EPS foam padding with deep plush lining interiors | 1. 3 ply Laun wood construction 2. Tolex PVC covering 3. Stylish with contrast stitching. 4. Ergonomic handle |
| Cons | 1. Hardware quality is not decent | 1. Hardware is a very cheap material |
Top ChromaCast Electric Guitar Cases
| Case Name | ChromaCast CC-EHC Electric Guitar Hard Case | ChromaCast CC-PS-LPC Pro Series Electric Guitar Hard Case |
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| Price | Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Amazon |
| Size Dimension | Wide upper Bout 35.5 cm, Wide lower bout 33.65 cm, Height 7.62 cm, Overall Length 104.14 cm | Length 102.8 cm, Wide upper Bout 25.4 cm, Wide lower bout 33.02 cm, Height 7.62 cm |
| Weight | 10 lbs | 10.5 lbs |
| Pros | 1. Durable wooden hard case 2. Soft and comfy Plush lined interior with extra neck and bridge padding 3. Bumper protection on the bottom and the sides 4. Heavy-duty chrome latches 5. Soft and comfy molded handle 6. Best affordable case | 1. Durable wooden construction 2. Deluxe Plush interior with foam padding 3. Heavy-duty leather handle 4. Chrome plated lockable latches and bumpers 5. Spacious accessories compartment |
| Cons | 1. Storage compartment is small | 1. Hardware assembly is not decent |
Top SKB Electric Guitar Cases
| Case Name | SKB 66 Hardshell Electric Guitar Case | SKB Electric Guitar Rectangular Hardshell |
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| Price | Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Amazon |
| Size Dimension | Wide upper Bout 29.21 cm, Wide lower bout 32.38 cm, Height 5.08 cm, Overall Length 99.06 cm | Length 45.72 cm, Int Height 5.08 cm, Lower Bout Width 31.75 cm, Upper Bout Width 31.75 cm, and Overall Length 100.3 cm |
| Weight | 10.1 lbs | 8.2 lbs |
| Pros | 1. Durable with contoured exterior with stacking point 2. Thick EPS foam interiors with plush covering 3. Fiberglass reinforced nylon trigger release latching system 4. TSA approved locks 5. Injection cushioned molded handle and feet 6. Full-length neck support | 1. ABS molded plastic exterior 2. Fully plush lined EPS molded interior 3. Molded in bumpers and feet 4. Spacious interior compartment Designed to hold many electric guitar models |
| Cons | 1. The accessory compartment does not have a lid 2. Hinges are made of cheap | 1. The interior compartment is not spacious |
Top Fender Electric Guitar Cases
| Case Name | Fender Classic Series Wood Case for Strat/Tele | Fender FE620 Electric Guitar Gig Bag |
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| Price | Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Amazon |
| Size Dimension | Length 73.02, Wide upper Bout 34.29 cm, Wide middle bout 31.75 cm, Wide lower bout 31.75 cm, Int Height 5.08 cm, Overall Length 99.06 cm | Wide upper Bout 34.29 cm, Wide middle bout 31.75 cm, Wide lower bout 37 cm, Int Height 7.67 cm, Overall Length 97 cm |
| Weight | 11 lbs | 0.1 lbs |
| Pros | 1. Classic wooden exterior durable with Tweed or black vinyl wrapping 2. Soft crushed acrylic plush interior lining interior 3. Brown/black vinyl wrapped steel core carry handle 4. Spacious and lidded accessory storage compartment | 1. 20 mm thick padded, velour lining interior 2. Comfortable mesh padded backpack straps with adjustable ladder lock buckles 3. Protective bumper 4. Front accessory pocket, pocket for extra strings, removable tool pocket, Pickpocket, and elastic pen loop |
| Cons | 1. Hardware materials are cheap and assembly is poor | 1. The zipper is made of cheap material |
Electric Guitar Case Buying Guide
What Should You Look for In a Hardshell Guitar Case?
A perfect hardshell case should have:
- Strong overall construction (both interior and exterior) using durable material.
- The interior padding comes next. It must be densely padded with plush lining to pamper and protect your instrument.
- A good hard case should have heavy-duty hardware latches, hinges, etc. Since hard cases is best for regular gigging, long-lasting hardware means added protection.
- Spacious storage compartment as it is adequate to hold all your accessories. Check for added neck support.
You may also Look for TSA-approved lock as flight requirement, corrosion, waterproof or extreme weatherproof features if required.
What Should You Look for In a Gig Bag?
Typically gig bags are highly portable and packed with travel features like:
- A spacious storage pocket holds accessories like extra strings, music sheets, capos, tuners, and more. Also, look for durable hardware like zippers, locks, handles, etc.
- Internal padding must be at least 0.5” thick with soft cushioning.
- Extra neck support for better protection will be an added advantage.
- Padded carry handle
- Backpack straps
Ensure that the exterior construction is strong built. Many of us opt for the stylish one, don’t fall for it; make sure your stylish gig bag has all the necessary features a gig bag should have.
Should You Buy a Hardshell Case or Gig Bag for Electric Guitar?
I recommend using a hardshell case or quality gig bag for all guitarists, whether practicing at home or as an extensive touring musician. Cheap to expensive; whatever the price of your guitar is, it deserves protection. So a guitar case is a must. Since a guitar case is the only thing that protects your electric guitar, don’t opt for the cheapest one. Buy among the best or most value for money guitar cases. Especially if you are a professional guitar player who travels long distances to gigs must invest in a high-quality hardshell guitar case that may be expensive. Still, surely it will protect your guitar better.
Final Thoughts
Decent instrument case for an electric guitar is not hard to find, there are plenty of them in the market if you look for but an overall guitar case that fits your guitar, protects it throughout, and is equipped with all the necessary features, is rare. In this article, you will get the best of electric guitar cases and compare them at your fingertips. I have included an electric guitar case buying guide to help you choose. I hope that all my efforts helped you big time!