Are electric guitar cases universal?

In most instances, no.

Guitar cases (not to be confused with gig bags) are typically modeled for a certain shape and even brand of guitar. While there are universal hardshell cases made, usually by third party companies, we typically don't recommend them because they don't do a great job of holding the guitar in place.

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Since this likely involves a purchase, I want to be clear up front.

Electric guitar cases are not universal.

Now this is in regards to hard cases and not gig bags. Gig bags are a different animal, and definitely your best bet if you want a one-size-fits-all kind of deal.

But hardshell cases are typically molded to a guitar's brand and shape. Even specific models within those brands will sometimes have cases designed just for them. And while you can get universal hardshell cases, we usually don't recommend them.

Electric guitar cases are not universal.

I'll elaborate on all this below, but here's my official answer to this question:

Avoid universal cases
Go with a gig bag if you want something that works for multiple types of guitars
Buy the recommended shape-friendly cases for the electric guitar in question
Try to keep the guitar and case the same brand, if possible

Table of Contents (click to jump)

Gig Bags are Different

Universal Cases

Typical Guitar Shapes

Should the guitar brand and case match?

Gig Bags are Different

There are gig bags designed for specific guitar shapes, just like cases. But our recommendation is typically the opposite of what we recommend for hardshell cases. A universal gig bag is just a lot more forgiving and the nice ones have straps inside of them that hold your guitar in place.

A universal gig back for guitars from Gator cases.

If you want something universal that can work for multiple guitars, this is the route you should go.

Just note that gig bags for different instruments are sized differently. For example, bass gig bags are taller than electric guitars.

Otherwise, have at it when it comes to the universal third-party options.

Universal Cases

Here's an example of a universal hardshell case. Most of them use just a simple rectangular shape for the body of the guitar, so that most guitars can fit.

An example of a universal hardshell case, made by Schecter.

But notice, this is made by Schecter and is likely better suited for Schecter guitars. So while a lot of different guitars could probably fit here, the most ideal fit would be for someone who owns a Schecter guitar anyway.

At that point, you might as well just go with the fitted case.

Typical Guitar Shapes

Here's a graphic that shows most (if not all) of the guitar body shapes. Note that I pulled this from Sweetwater.

Pretty much all of the guitar shapes that exist. Image via Sweetwater

Hardshell cases are more expensive, so if you buy one, it should ideally be fitted to the guitar in question. My advice would be to go this route or opt for the gig bag, which will save you some money and be more likely to fit.

Do either:

Universal gig bag
Fitted hardshell case

Should the guitar brand and case match?

Most of the time, guitar cases will be the same brand as the guitar they're paired with. Epiphone, Fender, and Gibson all make their own cases. However, a third-party hardshell case designed to fit a specific guitar should be a good option as well.

Author

Chris Phelan
Chris is a session guitarist and a graduate of James Madison University in Virginia. He started learning music at age seven and has contributed to multiple guitar and music-related publications. His last name is pronounced "phil-awn".
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