A cello case is a big purchase, and discovering which one is the best can be stressful, confusing, and time-consuming. Rest assured, the best cello cases are well worth that effort. They can even be life-changing for cellists of all ages and levels.
Durability, weight, and comfort are hugely important factors. Luckily, there has been an immense improvement in case technology, and several brands are now offering durable, quality, and lightweight cases.
Quick Look: 10 Best Cello Cases
★ #1 Best Cello Case Overall: Gewa Idea Original Carbon 2.9 ★
- Best Cheap Cello Case: Crossrock Carbon Fiber Composite
- Best Cello Case Under $1,000: Bam 1001SW Classic with Wheels
- Best Cello Case Under $500: Crossrock Carbon Fiber Composite
Playing the cello is strenuous for the body, and carrying a heavy case on your back definitely doesn’t help that. As a traveling cellist, I know how important it is to protect your cello while maintaining comfort. I’m confident about sharing my advice with you.
What Is a Cello Case?
A cello case is important for storing and carrying your cello safely and easily. Cellos have historically been notorious for their heavy weight and awkward portability.
Before modern technology, cellos were either transported in heavy wooden cases that would break your back, or soft fabric cases that didn’t protect the instrument properly. Modern innovation has luckily solved this problem.
I rule out soft cases completely — they’re simply too risky to be carrying your precious cello around in. The best cello cases are made of durable materials with good carrying systems, and they can store your cello, bows, accessories, and music.
Types of Cello Cases
In today’s world, there are several types of cello cases available on the market. From hard to soft and from sturdy to lightweight, these are the different types of cases you can find.
Modern Hard Case (Suspension System)
Suspension system hard cases are designed for the cello to be protected and float on a cushion of foam padding. These modern cases have an outer shell made from lightweight materials such as carbon fiber and are the best cases for cellos.
Hard Foam Case
These are cheap cases for cellos — an alternative that’s protective and somewhat light, but also big, bulky, and difficult to carry around. If you travel a lot, this type of case isn’t ideal, but it’s an affordable option that will protect your cello well.
Soft Padded Case
Otherwise known as a cello bag, these cases are often provided when you buy your cello. I don’t recommend a soft case unless you never travel and your cello is always kept in a safe spot in your home.
Electric Cello Case
Electric cello cases are different because electric cellos have a different shape and aren’t as fragile as acoustic cellos. Each electric cello fits in a unique case of its own that’s usually soft and will come with your specific electric cello.
Flight Case
Flight cases are designed so you can check in your cello on an airplane. (Never do this with a normal cello case!) There are either flight cases that your cello goes directly into (not my favorite), or others that cover your normal cello case as an extra shell.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Cello Case
Here are all of the things to consider before purchasing your cello case. As I mentioned earlier, the top three factors are durability, weight, and comfort.
Protection
Cellos are fragile and valuable, and the job of a case is to protect your cello against temperature changes, travel, and general bumps and bangs. My top recommendation is to find a case that is made of durable materials such as carbon fiber or ABS plastic.
Weight
Taking your cello to rehearsals and concerts is a heavy task, and protecting your shoulders from carrying unnecessary weight is essential. My first lightweight case changed my life, so I highly suggest looking for a case made of lightweight materials.
Comfort
Comfort and how you carry your case is another way to reduce extra weight on your shoulders. Look for a case with a great backpack carrying system if you’re constantly on the go.
Size
Cello cases vary depending on brand and materials, and you’ll want to check that the inner measurements are right for your cello. Some cellos have a wider lower body than the average case size. Flight cases have extra padding and are therefore much bigger.
Price
Cello cases can range from $100 to $3,000 and sometimes more. Hard cases with quality materials and craftsmanship are more expensive, and for a good reason. I suggest spending at least $1,000 if you want to protect your instrument properly.
Style
A final thing to consider when buying a cello case is style. You’ll be “wearing” your cello case a lot, and there are many designs and colors to choose from.
10 Best Cello Cases
These are the 10 best cello cases available today on the market. I’ve started with the highest quality cases and included some cheaper alternatives as well as two great travel/flight cases.
1. Gewa – Idea Original Carbon 2.9
- Interior dimensions: Length: 129cm (50.78″), upper width: 36cm (14.17″), lower width: 45cm (17.71″), height (inc. bridge): 28cm (11″)
- Available sizes: 4/4
- Weight: 6.4 lbs
- Features: Padded suspension system, SPS Gewa lock system, accessory pocket, two bow holders, two detachable rucksack straps
- Material & finish: Carbon shell made of 100% hi-tech ultra lightweight carbon fiber. Carbon fiber exterior (black), velour padding interior (red or blue)
- Best for: Professional cellists who travel a lot
The Gewa Idea Original Carbon 2.9 is the lightest cello case offered by Gewa. It’s made of 100% carbon fiber and has a functional and durable design that’s well suited for traveling professional cellists.
✅ Extremely lightweight
✅ Sleek design
✅ Durable quality
✅ Comfortable portability
❌ High price tag
Why I Recommend It
This is the top case for cellos, and I own and use one regularly. It’s fantastically lightweight carbon fiber cello case. Another feature that I love is its curved lip that prevents you from scratching your cello when getting it in and out of the case.
2. Accord Ultralight 2.3
- Interior dimensions: Length: 51.77″, upper width: 14 1/2″, lower width: 17 1/2″, height (inc. bridge): 8.34″
- Available sizes: Medium 4/4, large 4/4, 7/8
- Weight: 4.9 lbs
- Features: Suspension system, removable/customizable padding, removable accessory pocket, standard backpack straps or Fiedler backpack system, two bow holders (3rd bow holder optional)
- Material & finish: Carbon fiber shell, velour interior. Available in 11 standard colors (custom colors also available)
- Best for: Lightest hardshell case for professional cellists
The Accord Ultralight 2.3 is the lightest carbon fiber case available on the market. It’s popular with cellists worldwide, and the world’s most famous cellists have been seen using this case.
✅ Lightest case
✅ Comfortable portability
✅ Good color and size range
✅ Adjustable padding
❌ High price
❌ Durability not quite as good as Gewa
Why I Recommend It
This case is so incredibly light but still protects your cello, and it has a beautifully sleek design as well. It’s a great case for cellos that you can be excited about purchasing.
3. Bam Hightech 2.9 Slim 1005XL
- Interior dimensions: Length: 49″, upper width: 17 3/4″, lower width: 14 1/2″
- Available sizes: 4/4 (possible to add padding for a smaller cello)
- Weight: 6.4 lbs
- Features: Padded suspension system, removable accessory pocket, two bow holders, two detachable rucksack straps
- Material & finish: AIREX, PVC, and ABS exterior materials, plush interior. Available in six unique finishes/colors
- Best for: Professional cellists/advanced students
The Bam Hightech 2.9 Slim 1005XL is the lightest hard case and is a favorite of advanced students worldwide. Bam offers great quality and customer service.
✅ Lightweight
✅ Durable
✅ Good color range
❌ High price tag
❌ A bit bulky
❌ Not carbon fiber
Why I Recommend It
This is a great case for students who carry their cello to and from class a lot. It was my case while I was studying and it lasted a long time. Bam is a brand that I’d recommend to any professional cellist as well as students of any level.
4. Crossrock Carbon Fiber Composite with Wheels and Backpack
- Interior dimensions: Length: 53.1″, upper width: 15″, lower width: 18.9″, depth (inc. bridge): 11.2″
- Available sizes: 4/4
- Weight: 9.9 lbs
- Features: Suspension system, accessory pocket, inner sheet music pouch, leather handles, wheels, backpack straps
- Material & finish: Carbon fiber reinforced polymer (carbon composite), removable padded interior
- Best for: Advanced cellists on a budget
Crossrock offers this cello under $500, which is great for advanced student cellists on a budget. The Crossrock Carbon Fiber Composite is incredibly durable and has a sleek design.
✅ Low price tag
✅ Sleek design
✅ Durable
❌ Heavier than others
❌ Not 100% carbon fiber
Why I Recommend It
I recommend this case to cellists on a budget who are interested in a sleek looking carbon fiber case. It’s a good alternative to the carbon fiber cases offered by brands such as Gewa and Accord, and it’s one of the best cello cases with wheels.
5. Bam Hightech 3.5
- Interior dimensions: Length: 53″, upper width: 14.2″, lower width: 17.7″, lower length: 30.5″
- Available sizes: 4/4 (possible to add padding for a smaller cello)
- Weight: 7.7 lbs
- Features: Padded suspension system, removable accessory pocket, two bow holders, two detachable rucksack straps
- Material & finish: AIREX and ABS exterior materials, plush interior. Available in four colors.
- Best for: Advanced/intermediate students
The Bam Hightech 3.5 case is the standard and original version of the Hightech Slim 2.9. It’s slightly heavier but with a lower price tag.
✅ Average price tag
✅ Durable
✅ Lightweight
❌ A bit heavy
❌ Bulkier design
Why I Recommend It
I recommend this case to beginner and intermediate cellists looking for a durable and quality case. It’s a cheaper option offered by an incredible brand and is still fairly lightweight.
6. Bam 1001SW Classic with Wheels
- Interior dimensions: Length: 51.6″, upper width: 14″, lower width: 18.1″, lower length: 33″
- Available sizes: 4/4 (possible to add padding for a smaller cello)
- Weight: 13 lbs
- Features: Padded suspension system, inner sheet music pocket, two bow holders, two detachable rucksack straps, two side handles, wheels
- Material & finish: ABS anti-shock exterior shell, antislip and antiwear rubber patches on the bottom of the outer shell, plush interior. Available in three colors.
- Best for: Student and younger cellists who struggle carrying their cello
Another case by Bam, this one is quite a bit heavier than the previous models but extremely durable. The Bam 1001SW Classic can be rolled on its wheels and will still protect the instrument.
✅ Wheels for easy transport
✅ Extremely durable
✅ Low price tag
❌ Heavy
❌ Rolling cello not ideal
Why I Recommend It
Rolling a cello on wheels is not always a good idea, but this case offers great durability while doing so. I recommend this case to younger cellists who struggle to carry their instruments.
7. Bam Flight Cover
- Interior dimensions: Length: 54 1/2″, width: 21″, depth: 13.7″
- Available sizes: One size
- Weight: 20 lbs
- Features: Polyurethane foam inner foam designed to fit all Bam cases, two heavy-duty wheels, two removable handles
- Material & finish: Outside shell made of shock-absorbing elastomer ABS, sewn with nylon fabric strip
- Best for: Traveling cellists who don’t want to buy a seat
Designed to fit all Bam cello cases, this flight case is one of the best to protect your shell when checked as baggage on a flight. The Bam Flight Cover has been tried and tested by thousands of cellists worldwide and is the best protection for plane travel.
✅ Fits many cello cases
✅ Best plane protection
✅ Cheaper alternative to buying a seat for your cello
❌ Difficult to maneuver
❌ Large to store
❌ Still not as safe as buying a seat for your cello
Why I Recommend It
I generally don’t recommend checking your cello in on a flight, but this is the best option if you really need to. Unlike other flight cases, this flight cover can fit over almost every hard cello case on the market.
8. SKB Cello Roto Molded Shell
- Interior dimensions: Length: 31″, lower width: 18.50″, upper width: 14.50″, depth: 6″
- Available sizes: One size
- Weight: 16.85 lbs
- Features: Two bow holders, two heavy-duty wheels, sure-grip handles
- Material & finish: Durable plastic, scratch-resistant granite finish
- Best for: Traveling cellists
The SKB 4/4 Cello Shell Case was designed with the student cellist in mind. Also, the SKB Cello Roto Molded Shell is a rotationally molded case with a scratch resistant granite finish. It sports built-in wheels and hi-tech sure-grip handles.
✅ Military-spec materials
✅ Unconditionally guaranteed forever
✅ Great for traveling on the road
❌ Not safe for flights
❌ Bulky and heavy
Why I Recommend It
This is my recommendation for cellists frequently traveling on the road. After many tours, I realize how important it is to have a durable case that can easily be loaded into the back of a truck. This is just the case to protect your cello in that scenario.
9. Eastman Z-Tek Fiberglass
- Interior dimensions: Lower width: 14.5″, upper width: 17.5″
- Available sizes: 1/2 and 4/4
- Weight: 13 lbs
- Features: Two bow holders, three handles, accessory pouch, backpack straps, wheels, hygrometer
- Material & finish: Fiberglass, available in seven colors
- Best for: Beginner and intermediate students
Fiberglass has stood the test of time, and Eastman is proud of this original composite case material. These Eastman Z-Tek Fiberglass cases have a trusted reputation among teachers and students worldwide.
✅ Wheels
✅ Large color selection
✅ Durable
❌ Heavy
❌ No sheet music pocket
Why I Recommend It
This case has been a trusted and standard cello case for years. It’s my recommendation to beginner students on a budget. It will protect your cello well, and you can choose from many unique and fun color options.
10. Eastman CACL-K3W-TIWEA K3 Series
- Interior dimensions: Lower width: 14.5″, upper width: 17.5″
- Available sizes: 1/2 and 4/4
- Weight: 7.1 lbs
- Features: Two bow holders, accessory pouch, backpack straps, wheels, buckle latches
- Material & finish: Carbon fiber, four color options
- Best for: Professionals
The Eastman CACL-K3W-TIWEA K3 Series cello case is one of Eastman’s lightest, and it’s one of the only carbon fiber cases with wheels on the market.
✅ One of the few carbon fiber cases with wheels
✅ Lightweight
✅ Durable
❌ No sheet music pouch
❌ Wheels not always safest option for transport
Why I Recommend It
This is another lightweight cello case that’s popular among advanced students and professionals. If you’re after something lightweight with wheels, this is the case for you (but only use wheels on very flat surfaces).
Best Cello Case Brands
When it comes to cases, you want to keep your cello protected, and quality is extremely important. These are currently the best cello case brands.
Gewa
Gewa is a German manufacturer that specializes in quality instrument cases. They have high-quality standards and are particularly well known for their sturdy straps, handles, latches, and locks.
Accord
Accord is a Croatian brand that was the first to introduce high quality, lightweight, and durable cello cases. The brand still claims to have the lightest hard cases available on the market and is incredibly popular with cellists all around the world.
Bam
Bam is a French company that has been making quality cases for many years. They offer a wide range of different cases at different prices, including flight cases and cases with wheels.
Eastman
Eastman is a long-standing American brand that offers a line of cello cases that can suit any budget. They use quality materials and are popular among cello teachers and students.
Crossrock
Crossrock is a Chinese brand offering lightweight carbon fiber cases comparable to higher end brands for a fraction of the price. Their designs are sleek and suitable for professional cellists on a budget.
Cello Case Aesthetics & Build
Your cello case should be built to last, but it can look good too. There are plenty of designs to choose from.
Material
Cello cases are made from different materials, and lightweight materials are the most innovative. Soft cases are usually made from a soft padding, whereas hard cases are offered by several brands in durable lightweight materials such as carbon fiber.
Finish
Cello cases are usually reinforced and finished with a waterproof and durable sealant that protects the case and instrument from wet weather and temperature changes.
Color
Cello cases come in many colors and designs. Depending on which brand and model you go with, you can have a cello case customized with any design and color you choose.
Buying New vs Used
Buying a cello case used is not the best idea unless it’s in great nick. All cases will show wear over time (the shell can get dented and worn out, and the latches can start to become loose), so it’s definitely a good idea to buy your cello case new.
What’s in the Cello Case Box?
Here are some of the things that normally come in the box when you buy a cello case.
Cello Case
This is the first thing you’ll see in your box.
Padding
Depending on which case you go for, there will most likely be additional detachable padding to make sure your cello is perfectly snug in the case.
Accessories and Sheet Music Pockets
Most cases come with removable accessories and music pockets. These are to be attached either on the inside or outside of your case.
Straps
Your cello case will have some handles on it, and shoulder straps will definitely come in handy for carrying your cello in its case. These are included with most cello cases.
Spare Parts
Spare parts might include backup latches, carabiners, straps, handles, or extra padding.
Extras
Some extras you might want to think about investing in to make your case even better include an upgraded carrying system (such as the FIEDLER backpack system), a rain cover, and a flight case.
Cello Case Brands to Avoid
I avoid cello case brands that I’ve never heard of. It’s always a good idea to check online reviews as well as get advice from other musicians to make sure you’re buying a quality case from a trusted brand.
Frequently Asked Questions:
These are the most frequently asked questions by cellists looking to buy a new cello case:
How Much Do Cello Cases Cost?
Cello cases cost between $100 and $3,000. I recommend spending $500 to $1,000 on a beginner/intermediate case, and $1,000+ on a professional case.
What Are the Best Cello Cases?
These are the three best cello cases:
Gewa Idea Original Carbon 2.9: Best Overall
This case is absolutely the best for durability, quality, and comfort. It has the best function of all of the cases and is also one of the lightest cases available on the market.
Accord Ultralight 2.3: Best Lightweight Case
This is the lightest case available on the market. It’s also high quality, and it’s extremely comfortable and functional to carry and use. They also offer a lot of add-ons, including an optional Fiedler backpack system.
Bam 1001SW Classic with Wheels: Best Case Under $1,000
This is the best case under $1,000. It has a very protective hard shell and the added comfort of wheels for easy portability for students.
Where Are the Best Cello Cases Made?
My favorite cases are all made in Europe. Gewa is a German brand, Accord is a Croatian brand, and Bam is a French brand.
Where to Buy Cello Cases
You can buy cello cases either online or at music shops and luthier workshops. I suggest going into your local music store to make sure the case is a good fit for your cello and to check the comfort and weight of the case.
Amazon
Amazon.com is my favorite place to shop for cello cases because the selection is the best. Great prices, cello case reviews, and easy returns are a huge help, and you don’t even need to leave the house.
Online Music Retailers
Buying your cello case online is the way to go for getting the best price. Retailers such as Sweetwater.com, Fiddlershop.com, and Guitarcenter.com offer deals regularly and are worth checking out.
Your Local Music Store
If you have a music store near you that sells cello cases, definitely go in with your cello to try them all out. It’s important that your cello fits well and also that the case is comfortable and easy for you to carry.
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In Conclusion
When buying the best cello case, always look for protection vs weight and comfort. Are the materials lightweight, yet durable? This is the most important question to ask yourself about your new cello case.
Think about your needs and the most typical scenarios where you’ll be using your case. If you play in a group that travels on the road more than by public transport, put durability before weight, and vice versa. There’s definitely a case out there to suit your needs.
Let me know in the comment section about which cases you’ve tried and which ones you’re thinking about purchasing in the future. I’d love to hear from you. Share this post with someone else you know who might be looking for a new cello case.
