Reviewing This Year’s Best Cello Cases for Students

Should you get a cello case with wheels or one with extra straps? Light and durable or a high-tech cello case? There are too many options! Let us take the guesswork out of your hands and help you choose a cello case perfectly suited to your needs!

What to Consider When Choosing a Cello Case?

A cello case is used to store and allow easy carriage of cellos so undoubtedly, the safety of the heavy instrument is the highest priority when choosing a cello case - but it is not the only one! Here are a few more things to consider when picking out a cello case:

Type of cello case

There are various types of cello cases available today, each mainly a variation of a hard shell case and a soft gig bag. Hard shell cases used to be quite bulky and heavy to carry around but with time, they have improved. 

Modern hard-shell cases are constructed of lightweight materials like carbon fibre and include soft padding inside to keep the cello safe. If you are an avid traveller, a modern hard-shell case or a flight cello case (designed to let you check in the cello on an aeroplane) is your best pick. 

If travel isn't a concern, you can opt for a hard foam cello case which is similar to a hard-shell case but more economical. Soft cello cases or gig bags are usually provided when purchasing a cello and they only work well for storing cellos temporarily.

The shape of a cello case

Cello cases come in three different shapes i.e. dart-style, shaped and oblong. Dart-style and shaped cello cases are one of the best picks for beginners and young cellists as the cases are quite lightweight, small-sized and budget-friendly. Oblong cello cases are bigger in size, more expensive and usually preferred by experienced players who need more room for accessories.

Material used

The build of a cello case is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a good cello case. Wooden cello cases are exceptionally durable and protect the cello from harsh temperatures but they are quite heavy too - best for storage-keeping. Fibreglass cello cases, though heavyweight, are the most popular choice among cellists for their colourful styles, durability and easy transportation.

If you prefer a lightweight cello case, look for carbon fibre cases. They are just as durable and protective but are not quite temperature-resistant. Keep them in the shade and they'll last years. Although a rare find, thermoplastic cello cases are lightweight and temperature-resistant. Polycarbonate cello cases are scratch-resistant and shatterproof.

Durability

A cello case's durability is determined by its construction. With global warming on the rise, it is important to pick a cello case that is not only protective against physical harm but acts as a shield against harsh temperatures. Wooden cello cases are temperature-resistant but also sensitive so make sure to keep them in the shade during summers.

Weight

Cellos are notorious for their heavyweight, the last thing a cellist would need is the extra weight of the cello case! Though lightweight and durable cello cases are usually expensive, they keep a cellist's posture balanced in the long run. For a more budget-friendly alternative, you can look for cello cases with wheels. They take the weight off the handler, are easy to transport, and are good for young cellists, beginners and travelling musicians!

Comfort

Modern takes on cello cases tick all the boxes when it comes to easy maintenance. Besides wheels, you can also look for cello cases that come with durable straps allowing you to carry your case like a backpack for extra comfort.

What Additional Features to Look Out for in a Cello Case?

Now that you have the basics covered, let us brief you on some extra features that take the cello case up a notch!

Suspension system

A suspension system in a cello case is basically a raised shelf inside that keeps the cello from touching the shell of the case using extra padding and slings. It acts as an added protection against harsh impacts and such cases are usually labelled as suspension cello cases in the market.

Compartments

Cello cases are usually designed with built-in zippered pockets behind the cello for accessories like sheet music and bows. For extra compartments, you can get a backpack-like attachment for the case too.

Latches and locks

Modern cello cases are designed with a single lock in place for an easy open and shut system. To keep safety in check, they are well-padded inside. Some cases have combination locks which are great for travel.

Humidifier mount

Humidity is a cello's worst enemy and to combat it, most cases have built-in hygrometers which are a humidity alert system and humidifiers which are controlled water-spray systems. If they are not built-in, make sure the cello case has attachments to mount it separately.

Which Cello Case Will Work Best?

Choosing a cello case is largely dependent on what you need and how your cello can be protected well. Ideally, a lightweight, durable and temperature-resistant cello case will work best in the long run however that may be quite an expensive purchase. So a foolproof way to pick a cello case is to prioritise protection, durability and transport then consider features. Whether you are a beginner, a travelling musician or an experienced cellist, a cello case is definitely a must-have.