Gear Closet: Pelican G40 Personal Utility Go Case Review

Finding ways to keep our small and often fragile technology items protected while on the go isn’t always easy. After all, we rarely venture off the beaten path without at least a smartphone these days, and while that device can be convenient no matter where we von ourselves, they are seldom built to survive in rugged environments.

Fortunately, some excellent options can help us keep those gadgets protected while also keeping other important items organized. Take, for example, the new G40 Go Case from Pelican, built like a tank but compact enough to practically take it anywhere.

At its core, the G40 is a surprisingly rugged utility case built for securely holding a smartphone. It’s interior measures 7″ × 3.5″ × 1.6″ (17.7 cm x 8.9 cm x 4 cm), which is enough to accommodate the largest iPhone models, as well as nearly every large Android phone too, including the Samsung Note 9. The outer shell is made from an extremely durable ABS plastic designed to shrug off impacts and resist being crushed, providing an extra layer of protection for the cargo inside.

Once locked into place, the single-hinge latch turns the Go Case into a small vault locked up incredibly securely. The outer armor makes the case crush proof, but the latch seals it up so tightly that it is also IP67 dust and waterproof.

That means the case can be immersed in water up to 1.5 meters deep for as long as 30 minutes without suffering harm. That’s more than enough for the accidental drop or major splash, as well as enough time to conduct a search when the case gets lost too.

Soft rubber bumpers along the edges of the case help absorb much of the punishment that comes with impact. Simultaneously, a built-in valve gives the G40 the ability to regulate the interior pressure to ensure that it stays well balanced.

All of these features are meant to keep whatever you put inside the case well protected, even when you’re taking it to the far-flung corners of the globe or on an adventure that involves hiking, mountain biking, or even paddling.

The G40 Go Case’s bag of tricks doesn’t end with it just being rugged and durable. On the inside, you’ll find a double-shelf design that helps keep the case’s contents separated. The shelf holds a smartphone nicely but can also be flipped up to reveal more storage space underneath.

This space is great for carrying things like a wallet, credit cards, charging cables, a multitool, or just about any other small and lightweight items you might want to bring along. And since the case comes with a built-in handle that makes it easy to grab from inside a pack or attach to the bow of a kayak, the items you really need are never far out of reach.

As a frequent traveler, I’ve come to really appreciate what the G40 brings to the table. I like that I can load it up with important stuff, toss it into a backpack or duffel bag, and not worry about whether or not the things inside will make it to my destination in one piece.

It’s also nice to know where those items are at all times too, so when I’m looking for a particular cable or my AirPods, I know exactly where they are. The case itself is also small enough that it doesn’t take up much room, and it weighs just .93 pounds (.4 kg), which means despite the level of protection that it brings, it won’t bog you down.

The G40 Go Case won’t put a hurt on your wallet either. This model costs just $39.95, which is pretty affordable for the convenience that it offers. However, if that’s still a bit too pricey for you, the G10 model is a bit smaller but no less functional and is priced at $29.95 instead.

You’ll also find the R20 and R40 Ruck Cases at the other end of the spectrum, which has a few more features and a slightly different design. They are priced at $44.95 and $54.95, respectively.

Kraig Becker