A quick search through both online and brick-and-mortar store is enough to make you see that a viola case can have various prices. There are products that come very accessible, while there are also products with a rather high price.
How do you know which one is the best in your case?
Most certainly you want the best case for your viola, but you also need to have in mind that there are several factors that can influence your final choice. The price tag should not be the only one that dictates what to choose, although it is understandable if it is one of the most important. The following guide is made to help you choose the best viola case for your instrument, so it is definitely worth reading it.
What are the Best Viola Cases to Buy?
2) Protec Viola MAX Shaped Case
- Affordable
- Popular Choice
- Secure Zipper Closure
- Lightweight
- Soft Velvet Lining
1) Tonareli Fiberglass Viola Case with Wheels
- High Quality
- Strong Protection
- Beautiful Design
- Adjustable 15"-17"
3) Protec PS2165DLX Deluxe Viola PRO PAC Case
- Rectangular Shape
- Solf Molded Interior
- Adjustable Shoulder Block
- Exterior Pockets
When shopping for a viola case, you need to take a look at the material from which it is made. The material is usually the one that dictates the final price, but it can also tell you if the case is suitable for the way you plan to use it.
Are you a student and you need a case to take your instrument to classes?
Or you are an experiences viola player that gets to travel a lot?
Just like anything else, a simple material and design mean a more accessible case, while special materials and sophisticated designs can mean more money taken out of your pocket. But, again, the investment may be worth it, especially if you need superior protection for your valuable instrument or you travel a lot with your viola.
Also, do you live in an area where air humidity is rather elevated most of the year?
Well, since a viola is made out of wood, it can suffer permanent damages if it is constantly exposed to humid air. For this, you need a special viola case that can protect your instrument against excessive humidity, keeping it in a stable environment when it is stored or transported.
Some of the most sophisticated cases even come with hygrometers, which indicate the level of humidity in the air, and built-in humidifiers, just in case the air inside the case needs adjustments. Another question would be the number of compartments provided by the case.
To figure out how many compartments you will need, you have to consider all the accessories you will take along, besides your instrument. These accessories can be extra strings, music sheets, cleaning cloth, metronome, so there quite a few add up. In case you are not sure about the number of compartments, you can talk about it with your viola teacher.
Your teacher may give you other valuable pieces of advice when it comes to choosing the ideal case for your viola. Of course, if you are an experienced viola player, it will be an easier task for you.
Still, you may want to check the viola cases presented below, as there are models and types for every viola users. You just need to check out their specifications and decide if they answer your requirements or not.
18 Best Viola Case Reviews and the Best Viola Gig Bag
1) Tonareli Fiberglass Viola Case w/ Wheels – Special Edition Blue Graphite VAF1014
There are high chances that you will love this viola case, due to its glossy finish and elegant color. But these are not the only features that recommend this case. It comes equipped with wheels, for easy transportation, two leather handles, and an accessory compartment that can be removed.
The interior can be adjusted to suit the needs of viola of 15 to 17 inches, which makes the case a rather practical one. Thus, it is great to have if you consider getting a bigger viola in the future.
2) Protec Viola MAX Shaped Case, Fits Violas 15 to 15.5″ In Body Length, Model MX015
You will love a light weighed case because you mostly do local traveling with your viola? Well, then you will definitely appreciate this practical case. The case is extremely light, but this doesn’t mean that it won’t offer adequate protection.
It features a frame that protects against impacts, while the soft velvet lining on the inside and suspension padding will offer additional protection for your instrument. The case is covered by extremely study nylon on the outside, while also being equipped with EPS foam, so the case is indeed reliable in case of shocks.
3) Protec PS2165DLX Deluxe Viola PRO PAC Case
If you are not too keen on viola cases that are shaped like a viola and you would like a case that looks professional but neutral at the same time, you may like this one. It has a rectangular shape and it is covered with high-quality nylon on the outside. Only the inside is molded, to offer a snug fit to your instrument.
The used materials are soft so that your viola risks no scratches. Besides a compartment for your shoulder rest and clips for two bows, the case also provides a large compartment for additional accessories. When transporting the case, you have a side strap, plus a shoulder strap, which can be adjusted and removed.
4) Bam France 2200XL Contoured Hightech L’Etoile Violet Viola Case
In case you’re into modern items, you will love the way this viola case looks and is made. The classic BAM Contoured case was the basic model that inspired this case, so we can say that this one is a much-improved model of the previous. It is a sturdy hard case for your viola, with soft padded interior and cushions for additional protection.
Two sturdy latches keep the case tightly closed so that nothing gets on the inside. For handling the case, you have a side handle, but you can also add shoulder straps, due to the D-shaped rings that are already available.
5) Tonareli Cello-shaped Fiberglass Viola Case w/ Wheels – Special Edition Graphite VAF1015
Be ready to make a great impression with the help of this special case. It has the ideal shape to accommodate your instrument, the fiberglass from which it is made being molded to suit this particular type of instrument. The glossy graphite grey is also amazing, giving the case a distinct note.
Thus, the case will offer outstanding protection without being heavy at all. Also, when you will close the case, it will seal the interior, so that the air inside remains dry and the temperature is kept within the desired range. It also features wheels, besides a handle, so you can transport it with ease.
6) BAM 5101S Stylus Black Viola Case 16’’ 3/8
A gorgeous and practical case made by BAM, covered with Cordura fabric that isn’t just resistant to wear and tear, but is also capable of resisting to water. The structure also enjoys ABS reinforcement, so the case is not as light as it may seem, providing suitable protection.
On the inside, high-density polyurethane foam, so your viola will be safe in this case. And, although it closes with zippers, the case features a lock that uses number combinations to prevent the lock from being opened by anyone but you. It also has two back straps that are padded and can be removed, plus a side and subway handle, for easy handling.
7) Paititi 16 inch Professional Oblong Shape Lightweight Viola Hard Case with Hygrometer Black/Brown
This is a case that is sturdy, provides great protection, but without being bulky and heavy. It also looks elegant, due to its oblong design and brown velvet on the inside. Besides the velvet, there are suspension cushions that will not only secure the viola inside the case but will also keep it safe in case of shocks and bumps.
The two bow holders and an adjustable shoulder strap will make the transportation of the case an easy task. It also comes with accessory pockets both on the inside and outside, and a hygrometer so that you can keep an eye on air humidity levels.
8) Bellafina Thermoplastic Viola Case 16- 16 ½
Made out of thermoplastic that has the ideal shape of a viola, this case comes with quality latches that closes it tightly and securely. The outer case is hard and resistant, while the interior is nicely molded and covered with soft black plush.
Besides the dedicated space for your viola, you will also find on the inside two clips that allow you to carry two bows and a compartment for your accessories. The handling of the case is made with the help of the side handle, but you can also add later on and if needed, shoulder straps, which can be attached to the D-rings of the case.
9) SKB 15 & 16 Viola Case
This is the kind of case to have in handy when you’re participating in local gigs or you’re taking your viola to music classes. It is a simple but practical viola, capable of offering a great degree of protection. It is shaped just right for your instrument, which makes it compact and easy to carry.
It has backplates as additional reinforcement, so you don’t have to worry about the safety of your instrument. The case is also equipped with valances that will allow you to add D-ring straps to it if you want. Until then, you can use the ergonomic handle that is already attached to it.
10) D Z Strad viola bow Model 508 Pernambuco Wood (Viola Case)
If you want a sturdy case for your viola, this particular one may offer just what you need. The case has wood as its main protective material on the outside, covered with a resistant material. On the inside, the case is made to suit the shape and needs of a viola, featuring thick cushions that will it safe from bumps and scratches during transportation and storage.
A special flap will also provide additional protection to the case when bad weather hits. When the case is delivered, you will only have a side handle for carrying it, but do notice the two D-rings on its side, which will allow you to add shoulder straps if you want.
11) BAM Viola Hoody Black, Contoured
This particular case is ideal for local gigs, rehearsals, and covered other short distances that involve bringing your viola along. It is practical and light weighted and covered with a water-resistant material, so don’t be afraid to use it even if the weather outside is bad.
The interior is lined with a soft material, keeping your viola from getting scratched. This nice viola hoodie is capable of withstanding a lot of wear and tear, even if it may seem light. Just do know that the case is specially made to fit the BAM violas, so do check the dimensions before purchasing it, as it may not fit your particular viola.
12) Core Dart-Shaped 16″-16.5″ Viola Case with Black Velvet Interior
If you enjoy finding value at accessible prices, then do check this case out. Featuring a protective shell made out of wood, covered with Cordura, and an interior that has a lining made out of soft black velvet, this case made by Core is capable of keeping your instrument safe.
On the inside, you will have a blanket for your viola, a music pocket, and two holders for your bows. There also are accessory pockets and a sponge that will block the tail of the viola, for additional protection. Besides the closure facilitated by a zipper, an extra latch will make sure that once closed, the case remains that way. And the backpack straps makes it easy to carry.
13) SKY 15.5-16 Inch Viola Oblong Case Lightweight with Hygrometer Black/Grey
If you want a viola case with a classic and clean design, then you need to take this one into consideration. The interior is suitable for a viola and a few accessories, while the exterior looks like a regular rectangular case. The structure of the case is made out of plywood and its exterior is covered with water-resistant canvas, so you can be sure that your instrument is safe.
You even have a hygrometer on the outside of the case, which will continuously indicate the humidity level, plus a generous pocket where you will be able to store your music sheets with ease.
14) Heritage Go! Viola Case Black Red 16-165
This is a small and compact viola case that is extremely easy to use. Just pack your instrument and you are ready to go. Featuring an outer shell made out of foam, the case will protect your instrument against shocks and humidity at the same time.
The case is covered by resistant nylon on the outside and features a layer of soft cotton on the inside, plus adequate cushions that will keep your instrument in place. To carry the case with ease, you have two backpack straps and a subway strap to choose from. The case has a hygrometer as well and an accessory pocket on the inside.
15) Featherweight C-3907V Viola Case – Semi-shaped – 16″
Don’t allow anything to happen to your viola with the help of this case. It has a solid wooden frame, reinforced with rigid foam, so the level of protection is excellent. The interior is molded to suit the shape of your instrument and it is padded for additional protection.
There is even a Velcro strap for the neck of your viola so that it won’t move during transportation. On the outside, highly resistant nylon is used, which will protect the case against the weather and tear. You will also enjoy accessory compartments, both on the inside and outside, plus two bow holders and shoulder straps that can be adjusted to your needs.
16) Gewa Concerto 331 Black/Blue Adjustable 15″-16.5″ Viola Case
If you like to keep your options open, then this practical case will allow you to adjust its size when needed, as it can accommodate violas of both 15 and 16.5 inches. The case is made out of Thermo shell, features bad weather flaps on the outside and a pocket for music sheets.
Also, a Deluxe Swiss latch will secure the case when closed, so you won’t have to worry about it. The inside is covered with blue velour and features suspension pads, for adequate protection. You will transport this case with ease, due to the backpack straps and D-rings, made to be carried on your shoulder, attached to the case.
17) American Case Co. Eagle Viola Case Blue
A case with a very clean design that is more than capable of keeping your instrument safe no matter where you go. Made out of multi-layered plywood shell, covered with Black Oxford material, the case is not just very resistant, but also capable of telling you the air’s humidity level, due to the embedded hygrometer.
Plus a jumbo vapor bottle and heavy-duty hardware will keep the instrument in complete safety, not allowing humidity to do any damage. There are also two very generous compartments for accessories and a soft handle that will make the transportation of the case highly comfortable.
18) Tonareli Viola Case Cover For VAF Shaped Fiberglass Cases – VACCS 1000 Black
Every practical person will love this particular case offered by Tonareli. It is made out of fiberglass that was specially shaped to suit the size and curves of a viola. The case is equipped with wheels, for easy transportation, but it can also be carried on the back, as a backpack, due to its two straps, or carried by hand, due to the attached handles.
The nylon that covers the case on the outside is resistant to water and so is the zipper that closes the case tight. This way, the interior will remain nice and dry even in bad weather.
Choosing the Best Viola Case from the Best Viola Case Brands
It is true that it is not an easy task to find the right case for your instrument, but taking the time to find the ideal one means that you will protect your instrument in every situation.
As you were able to see, soft cases are also protective enough, due to their padded interior. So, if you don’t plan on taking your viola on long distances, this kind of cases will do. But, if you will travel quite often with your instrument or you simply need to be sure that it will be safe no matter what, a hard case will offer the desired level of protection.
2) Protec Viola MAX Shaped Case
- Affordable
- Popular Choice
- Secure Zipper Closure
- Lightweight
- Soft Velvet Lining
1) Tonareli Fiberglass Viola Case with Wheels
- High Quality
- Strong Protection
- Beautiful Design
- Adjustable 15"-17"
3) Protec PS2165DLX Deluxe Viola PRO PAC Case
- Rectangular Shape
- Solf Molded Interior
- Adjustable Shoulder Block
- Exterior Pockets
Now, whether you want an oblong or molded viola case, that’s a matter of personal taste and of how much additional space you need for your accessories. Thus, do your best to take into account every possible situation in which you can be with your viola, so you will be able to get the case that will suit your needs and plans.
Closely inspect every case before purchasing it and, above all, check the case’s dimensions before placing an order. The case must fit the size of your instrument if you want it to offer adequate protection.