The big difference here is the design. Overall exterior dimensions are similar, with the gopro more rectangular, tradecraft square and slightly deeper. this permits the Inspire to be stored in Landing mode - a huge plus for me. It's a personal choice. Gopro has announced a Landing Mode case, but it's HUGE. Too big for me.
Yes, the GoPro is 10,212 cubic inches, whereas the TradeCraft is 8,750 cubic inches, a difference of 1,462 cubic inches. Based on images and the volume of each case, it appears that the former case has the potential to hold more gear--two iPads, for example, whereas the latter holds only one. The TC holds seven (7) batteries, one on the Inspire. The GP case appears to have the capacity to hold ten (10) batteries, one on the Inspire.
I didn't mean to say things would rattle around in the TC case, I only meant to say that it appears that the potential is there to do so. It depends entirely on what is stowed in the case. Sooner or later someone will throw something small and loose into the open area around the bird and if turned upside down it will not be secure. Such potential does not exist in the GP case.
Oddly enough, the larger case is considerably lighter, based on specs from each site: GP case weight (empty) 11 lbs; the TC case weight (empty) is 26 lbs. That's more than twice as heavy!
That I do not understand, but it sure would make the "larger" case much easier to tote around.
*(Read post #19 below for updated information.)
EDIT:
The case arrived and I transferred everything from the stock case to the GP case and have plenty of room to spare.
Yes, the case is large, larger than I even pictured it (I'm no good at guessing dimensions or distances). I can see how the size would be an issue for some, but for me it's one of those "comes with the territory" situations. This purchase was more in the form of an insurance policy. That's not to say the TC case is providing less "insurance," it's slightly different "insurance."
The foam is stiff, but I expected that. However, it's not so stiff as to make putting items in the case and getting them difficult.
Yes, you can get up to ten batteries in this case, and that includes putting the tenth one on the Inspire. Actually, you could get even more in the case, depending on what you do or don't put in the other compartments. I only have one controller, so that space is also open at this time.
Yes, you can leave the camera/gimbal on the bird, but I have reservations about that (and that's just an opinion, not based on any information or experience to the contrary).
I'm pleased with the purchase as I am confident that TC buyers will be pleased with theirs. Regardless of which case you buy, your copter will be better protected than in the stock case.
I seriously doubt FedEx is that far off on the weight. Could be a typo on the Website... as to which one I am not sure.
