Buying a trumpet case can be quite confusing. There are so many options available today and it’s difficult to decide which one is the right fit for you. Trumpets are expensive instruments and they need to be protected. Using a case for your trumpet will not only keep it safe from damage, and wear, but also keeps the dust off of the trumpet so that it can stay clean.
In this guide, we’ll help you find the best trumpet case for your needs, whether that’s a hardshell case or gig bag. We’ll cover how to choose to know exactly what features to look for in your next trumpet case purchase as well look at style, size, material, brand reputation, and more! Let’s jump in.
Quick Answer: The Best Cases for a Trumpet
Best Rated Trumpet Case Reviews
Before we get to our buying guide to help you know what features to look for when you’re looking to buy a trumpet case, it’s time to look at some of the best models on the market. Below we’ve got our trumpet case reviews to help you find the best one for you.
1. Torpedo Classic Trumpet Case
- Up to 3 inches of foam on all sides of your trumpet
- Massive space for up to 300 pages of music and will fit ANY orchestra folder
- Removable Mute Bag and Music Pouch
The Torpedo Classic is number one for a good reason. Ballistic black nylon makes this case durable while also looking sleek. Nylon is water-resistant as well, so you don’t have to worry about any damage to your trumpet.
This case feels made for players in the city. Backpack straps that sit high on your back make it perfect for traveling. Not only is it great for bike riders, but with its eight-inch footprint, this case is a great trumpet stand in between sets.
Three inches of foam on all sides ensure safety regardless of how you’re traveling. And the massive amount of storage space, in this case, will make it easy to take everything you need. Three hundred pages of music can fit in this case, along with a removable mute bag and lid pouch.
All of this and the case only weighs six pounds. The lightweight design makes it a top choice for all trumpet players.
2. Crossrock Trumpet Case
- Compact shape with super strong fiberglass exterior perfect for most regular Bb trumpet.
- Accessory compartment with lid for mouthpiece and extras.
- Thick padding all around to provide superb protection to your trumpet.
Crossrock is an excellent option if you’re looking for a hard trumpet case. This case is made of fiberglass and is tightly compact. The design prevents the trumpet from moving inside the case while traveling.
Fiberglass provides different color options and a sleek finish. This case, in particular, has a nylon strap that makes it easy to carry. At only four pounds, this lightweight case can come anywhere you need.
Two perks of this case are the accessory compartment and the locking mechanism. You can be sure that your trumpet is always safe.
One downside is that there is nowhere to put an orchestra folder. If you’re a player who carries plenty of music, cleaning supplies, and other things, this case might not be right for you.
3. Protec IPAC Triple Trumpet Case With Wheels
- Responsibly made: All materials tested to be free of Lead, DEHP, PAHS8, DBP, and BBP.
- Weather-resistant exterior and wood frame: Made of extremely durable 1680 ballistic nylon and reinforced with zig-zag stitching with a lightweight...
- Shoulder strap and large gusseted pocket: Strap features a large non-slip adjustable shoulder pad and strong metal clips. Pocket including built-in...
The IPAC Triple is the ideal case for someone that travels with multiple instruments. This case has enough room for up to three trumpets. Foam blocks inside allow you to configure each horn securely in its own section.
The vast exterior pocket is perfect for carrying music or other extras. There is no shortage of space for mutes, mouthpieces, and whatever else you need.
This case is made from ballistic nylon. Nylon is not only water-resistant but abrasion-resistant. The IPAC Triple can stand up to lots of wear and tear.
The biggest perk is the wheels. If you are frequently traveling, especially with more than one trumpet, this is the case you want. No longer will you have to lug around separate cases.
When needed, this case does have durable nylon straps that make it easy to carry. You can either carry it like a suitcase or use the shoulder strap.
4. Vincent Bach 818H Trumpet Case
- Vincent Bach Model#818H
Vincent Bach has been in the music industry for a long time. Thanks to their years of expertise, you can be sure these products are made with every aspect of your instrument in mind.
Vincent Bach stands out specifically for its classic design. The brown canvas exterior gives it an older look but also makes sure that it’s durable. Inside is a plush interior to keep your horn secure.
Hidden in the bottom of the case are padded back straps and a shoulder strap for easy transport. There are also zippered outside pockets for your mouthpiece, music, and other accessories.
The only downside of this case is that it may not stand up to more intense travel. The Vincent Bach 818H is for casual use. Without the nylon of some other options, this case lacks water resistance and other extras that will come in handy during longer trips.
5. Gator GL-TRUMPET-A Trumpet Case
- Exciting new design
- Nylon lightweight exterior with plush covered dense EPS foam interior
- Interlocking comfort grip handle
Gator is no stranger to the instrument case industry. They are known for producing consistently reliable products.
They recently designed this trumpet case with a sleek, black nylon exterior. Foam on the inside makes sure that your trumpet is secure. Generally, you won’t find this type of protection in such lightweight, soft case options.
Two outside pockets are perfect for a mouthpiece but can’t fit a standard-size music folder. If you’re looking for a gig bag instead of one for orchestra, this might not cause as many issues.
Comfy handles make this lightweight case easy to carry, and there is an optional shoulder strap. Rubber feet are fitted on the bottom for shock absorption if it were to ever fall. Customers also say it fits easily in overhead space when traveling.
6. Protec Max MX301 Trumpet Case
- Responsibly made: All materials tested to be free of Lead, DEHP, PAHS8, DBP, and BBP.
- Tough exterior: Made of rugged 600D nylon. EPS foam frame is lightweight, rigid, and shock resistant for excellent protection. Main handle made of...
- Shoulder straps: Features a large adjustable shoulder pad and strong lightweight clips. Also includes built-in backpack straps that are padded for...
An interior made of an EPS foam frame and soft lining create a secure space for most Bb trumpets. The downside of this style is that it’s not customizable like some of the other options.
Padded backpack straps and quick lock closure make this the perfect trumpet case for a student. The Protect Max is shock-resistant and features two large pockets.
There are slots in the case for two mouthpieces with room for mutes. Accessory room is the biggest plus for this case. The lightweight and portable design will even make sure it’s still easy to carry around.
The downside to all that room is that this case is much larger than some of the other soft case options. The Protect Max is really for a musician with lots to carry.
7. Xinlinke Trumpet Case
- Made of Water-resistant 600D Oxford Cloth Lightweight and Durable
- 5mm Soft Padded Design, Protect Your Trumpet from Scratch During Transport and Carrying
- With 10 x 28 cm Side Pocket for Mouthpiece, Valve oil, etc
This trumpet case is the least expensive option on the list, but that doesn’t mean it lacks quality.
Xinlinke is a smaller soft case. One side pocket is perfect for oil, a mouthpiece, and a valve. The case is snug so that the trumpet won’t move around inside. While not as durable as a hard case, it is much less challenging to carry around.
A shoulder strap and handles make it easy to carry, and it’s incredibly lightweight. The Xinlinke is even made of water-resistant material.
This case is not meant for professional trumpet players or anyone that is doing extensive traveling with their trumpet. However, it is perfect for a trip back and forth to school or lessons. Its small size makes it much easier for kids to carry around.
How to Choose a Trumpet Case: A Buyer’s Guide
Many trumpeters end up outgrowing the cases their trumpets come in at the time of purchase.
Sometimes this is because cases are exposed to the elements and simply do not last as long as the instrument itself.
This can also be due to advancements players make in their needs and style preferences as they grow as musicians.
Trumpet cases come in a wide variety of materials, storage options, and price points.
Here is a helpful guide for choosing your perfect next trumpet case.
Types of Trumpet Cases
Most people are surprised to discover how many options there are for storing their instruments.
The first main purposes of any case are to keep the instrument safe during storage and transportation.
The second is to hold the instrument and everything the player needs to go with it.
Individual preferences and circumstances vary from player to player and even from event to event for one person.
It is therefore common to end up with multiple types of cases over time.
Hard Cases
Hard trumpet cases are typically made of plastic. You can also find them in wood if you are looking to add a little style and flare.
The distinct advantage of hard cases is that they are sturdier and offer more protection for the instrument and any accessories stored in the case.
When you purchase a trumpet, it typically comes in a hard plastic case.
Most people purchase new hard cases when their first one becomes too damaged or they would like a hard case with a more sophisticated appearance or greater capacity for accessories.
Soft Cases
Soft trumpet cases are typically made of leather or some combination of fabrics. Nylon is the most common material for soft cases.
They offer lightness for ease of carrying and fitting into diverse spaces.
They offer less protection than hard cases from bumps and drops but are typically made of materials designed to protect the instrument from elements such as water. The exception is leather cases.
The trade-off is that you get a greater opportunity for storing more accessories in a smaller case and more convenient shape.
Gig Bags
Gig bags are a special type of soft case that many trumpeters have for transporting instruments on performance day. They are also typically made of leather or nylon.
People primarily purchase them for style and therefore offer the least in protection and space, as the trumpeter will only bring the accessories they need for that performance.
Many will transport their trumpets to and from locations in their main cases and just transfer them to the gig bag for arrival at the performance venue.
Weight
The weight of the case is definitely something you should consider when purchasing your next trumpet case.
Hard cases can be over 10 pounds/5 kilos if you are looking for a decent amount of storage space and security.
Soft cases can be less than 5 pounds/2.5 kilos.
If you are purchasing the case for a child, for instance, you probably want the lightest case possible that will offer the most protection.
A great option for this case would be a light plastic case, as you will not need as much space for accessories.
Compartments for Accessories
Trumpet cases come in a wide range of sizes and a number of compartments.
You will choose a case that offers the compartment configuration you need based on the number and type of accessories you wish to store in your case.
Trumpeters who play on the go often usually want their instrument and all of its accessories in one place for easy access and to minimize forgetting items.
Soft cases tend to offer more diverse compartment options, as the more compartments you add to a solid case, the larger the case has to be.
In preparing to purchase a case, consider the accessories you want to carry with you.
Every trumpet case should offer room for the mouthpiece, valve oil, and a cleaning rag. Some trumpeters have multiple mouthpieces for multiple techniques.
Most trumpeters will want space for at least a standard mute, but some will have multiple types of mutes for producing multiple sound options.
People who perform frequently might also want to be able to store sheet music, stands, and stand lights.
Capacity for Multiple Trumpets
In addition to one instrument and its accessories, some people who play multiple instruments within one trip or performance wish to store them all in one case.
Most standard cases are double and will adequately store most instruments within the trumpet family.
You might have to have a case specially designed for more than two instruments and for instruments vastly different in size, in order to make sure they are safely stored.
Multi-instrument cases will typically be soft cases to reduce the weight.
Price
Trumpet cases come in a wide variety of price points to meet any budget. Soft cases and gig bags range from $50 to $300.
The larger the bag and the more compartments, the higher the price point.
Leather is also more pricey than any of the other soft materials.
Plastic hard cases are usually in the $50 range, with the wood cases and more ornate cases also reaching $300.
Many advanced trumpeters will sell the case their new trumpets come in almost immediately after purchasing it, because they already have or immediately buy a more preferred case, so you can find used cases at a discounted price that are like brand new.
Best Brands
There are many different brands that specialize in trumpet cases. Each focuses on a different element catering to specific needs. The Protec Pro Pac offers the best in both convenience and protection. It is lighter weight than hard cases but offers a great deal of protection for a soft case. While less protective, WolfPak nylon cases are a great option for those particularly interested in lighter weight and convenience. Flexzion is a popular brand for gig bags, offering ample storage in a sleek case. Gator is a popular brand for those seeking hard cases.
They are known for being sturdy, especially in terms of handle strength. They also have a sleek appearance. Those seeking space economy will find that the Torpedo cases are very spacious and convenient for storing a great variety of accessories. It even sports a removable pocket for convenience.
Torpedo cases are known for great economical value, as well.
Professional trumpeters seeking a high-grade and stylish option enjoy Bach cases.
The C180 model in particular boasts double handles, alligator skin trim, and a decent amount of accessory storage space for a hard case.
When it comes time for you to outgrow or replace the case your trumpet came with, you will find that there are many options available.
Over time, you might find yourself collecting multiple cases to suit your various needs.
Whether you are looking for something lighter, need more protection, seek a bit more accessory storage, or are in need of a gig bag for your performances, you will be able to find what you need most at a price you are comfortable with.
So, Which One Should You Get?
All of these cases will provide different aspects of durability and extras perks based on your needs.
If you know you have specific requirements for a case, it’s essential to review all the options before picking one.
If you’re still unsure which trumpet case is the best for you, the Torpedo Classic is the top recommendation. You absolutely can’t beat its quality.
Nylon makes for excellent protection against the elements.
The foam interior allows your trumpet to fit snugly without the rigid mold of some other models.
Every player is going to have different needs, but the Torpedo Classic is the trumpet case that can meet them all.
Fitting music inside this case is not a problem, along with all of your cleaning supplies, oil, mouthpiece, and mute.
This case also comes with multiple carrying options.
Even with all of these features, this case is still one of the lightest options on the list, weighing only six pounds.
It’s everything you could want from a trumpet case.
- Up to 3 inches of foam on all sides of your trumpet
- Massive space for up to 300 pages of music and will fit ANY orchestra folder
- Removable Mute Bag and Music Pouch
