Lowepro Viewpoint CS 40 Action Camera Case Review Best Protection for Your Gear

The Lowepro Viewpoint CS 40 delivers military-grade protection for action cameras and accessories in a compact, adventure-ready design. Its customizable interior and weather-resistant shell ensure your gear stays safe and organized, whether you’re hiking, biking, or filming in extreme conditions. A must-have for serious content creators who demand reliability and quick access on the go.

Key Takeaways

• Ultimate protection: Durable EVA shell safeguards gear from shocks and drops.
• Customizable interior: Adjustable dividers fit multiple action camera models perfectly.
• Compact and lightweight: Easy to carry without adding bulk to your gear.
• Weather-resistant design: Protects against dust, moisture, and harsh conditions.
• Quick access: Dual zippers enable fast retrieval of your camera.
• Smart storage: Dedicated pockets organize cables, batteries, and small accessories.

Why Your Action Camera Needs a Case Like the Lowepro Viewpoint CS 40

Let’s face it—adventure doesn’t come with a warranty. Whether you’re hiking through dusty trails, diving into ocean waves, or biking down rocky paths, your action camera takes a beating. I remember the first time I took my GoPro out on a kayaking trip. I thought a simple ziplock bag would be enough. Spoiler: It wasn’t. Saltwater seeped in, sand scratched the lens, and I lost a day’s worth of footage. That’s when I realized: protection matters. And that’s exactly why I started hunting for a reliable, no-nonsense case like the Lowepro Viewpoint CS 40 action camera case.

The Viewpoint CS 40 isn’t just another accessory—it’s a peace-of-mind investment. Designed specifically for compact action cameras and their gear, it’s built to handle the chaos of outdoor adventures while keeping your equipment organized and safe. After months of using it on hikes, bike rides, and even a rainy day at the beach, I’ve put this case through its paces. And honestly? It’s become one of my most trusted travel companions. In this review, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from build quality to real-world usability—so you can decide if it’s the right fit for your gear and lifestyle.

First Impressions: Design and Build Quality

Compact, Yet Surprisingly Spacious

When you first unbox the Lowepro Viewpoint CS 40, you’ll notice its compact size—about the size of a large sandwich. But don’t let that fool you. This little case is a master of space management. It measures 6.3 x 4.3 x 2.4 inches (16 x 11 x 6 cm), making it small enough to slip into a backpack or even a large jacket pocket, yet it holds more than you’d expect.

The exterior is made of a rugged, water-resistant polyester fabric with a subtle matte finish. It feels durable without being bulky, and the seams are tightly stitched, giving you confidence it won’t fray after a few trips. The zipper is smooth and features a rubberized pull tab—perfect for gloved hands or when your fingers are wet. I’ve opened and closed it hundreds of times, and it still glides like new.

Thoughtful Internal Layout

Inside, the case uses a soft, brushed lining to protect your camera and accessories from scratches. The main compartment has a removable, padded divider system. This is a game-changer. You can customize the layout to fit your specific gear—say, a GoPro Hero 12, two spare batteries, a microSD card case, and a small tripod mount. I love that I can rearrange it depending on what I’m shooting that day.

There’s also a mesh pocket on the lid for smaller items like lens caps, USB cables, or even a microfiber cloth. I use mine to store a tiny cleaning brush and a spare battery—both of which are easy to grab without digging through the main compartment. The mesh is snug, so nothing falls out, even when the case is upside down.

Weather Resistance: Not Fully Waterproof, But Close

While the Lowepro Viewpoint CS 40 isn’t fully submersible, it offers excellent splash and dust resistance. The fabric is treated with a DWR (durable water repellent) coating, and the zipper is covered with a flap to help keep moisture out. I’ve used it in light rain and near splashing waves, and my gear stayed dry. However, I wouldn’t recommend leaving it out in a downpour or submerging it. For that, you’d need a dry bag or a fully waterproof case.

One tip: If you’re heading into wet conditions, consider placing your camera in a small waterproof pouch inside the case for added protection. I keep a tiny silicone pouch in the mesh pocket just for this reason—it’s saved my camera more than once.

What Fits Inside? Real-World Gear Compatibility

Designed for Action Cameras, But Flexible Enough for More

The Lowepro Viewpoint CS 40 is marketed for action cameras like GoPro, DJI Osmo Action, and Insta360, but its modular interior makes it surprisingly versatile. I’ve used it to carry:

• A GoPro Hero 12 with a frame mount
• Three spare batteries (with protective cases)
• A 64GB microSD card (in a small card holder)
• A compact tripod mount (the kind that screws into the camera)
• USB-C charging cable (coiled and tucked into the mesh pocket)
• Lens cleaning kit (brush + microfiber cloth)

Even with all that, there’s still room to squeeze in a small external microphone or a spare adhesive mount.

Perfect for Mirrorless and Compact Cameras Too

Here’s a little secret: I’ve also used the Viewpoint CS 40 to carry a compact mirrorless camera (like the Sony ZV-1) with a pancake lens. The padded divider can be adjusted to create a snug fit, and the soft lining protects the lens from scratches. While it’s not designed for full-frame DSLRs, it’s ideal for travel vloggers who want to keep a lightweight camera handy.

For example, during a recent trip to Iceland, I used the case to carry my Sony ZV-1, a spare battery, a 32GB SD card, and a small LED light. It fit perfectly in my daypack, and I never worried about dust or moisture. The case even survived a sudden hailstorm—my camera stayed bone dry.

Accessory-Friendly Design

One of the best features is how well it handles accessories. The padded dividers have Velcro edges, so you can move them around or remove them entirely. I often remove one divider to make room for a slightly larger lens or a gimbal stabilizer. The mesh pocket is also stretchy enough to hold a small power bank or a wireless mic receiver.

Pro tip: If you’re using it for multiple cameras (say, a GoPro and a 360 cam), consider labeling the dividers with tape or a small tag. It saves time when you’re switching gear on the go.

On-the-Go Usability: How It Performs in the Field

Easy Access, Even in Tight Spots

When you’re mid-hike or chasing a sunset, you don’t want to fumble with a complicated case. The Lowepro Viewpoint CS 40 opens wide—like a clamshell—so you can see all your gear at once. This is huge when you’re trying to swap batteries or grab a specific mount in a hurry.

I’ve used it on mountain bike trails where quick access matters. Instead of digging through a backpack, I just unzip the case, grab my GoPro, and reattach it to the handlebar mount. The rubberized zipper pull makes it easy to open with one hand, even when your gloves are muddy.

Lightweight and Packable

Weighing just 6.4 ounces (181 grams), the case adds almost no bulk to your kit. I’ve carried it in a fanny pack, a camera sling, and even a large cargo pocket on hiking pants. It doesn’t bounce around or feel awkward, which is a win for active users.

One thing I love: It compresses down when empty. If you’re not using it, you can flatten it and tuck it into a side pocket. I often do this when I’m not shooting—it saves space and keeps my pack organized.

Durability in Tough Conditions

I’ve dragged this case through sand, gravel, and even a few accidental drops (don’t ask). The fabric hasn’t ripped, and the zippers still work smoothly. The corners are reinforced, which helps prevent wear in high-stress areas.

One test I did: I left it in a backpack during a 3-day desert hike. Temperatures hit 105°F (40°C), and the case was exposed to direct sunlight for hours. When I opened it, everything inside was cool and dry. No warping, no discoloration—just solid performance.

How It Compares to Other Cases: The Competition

Lowepro Viewpoint CS 40 vs. GoPro Sleeve + Lanyard

The GoPro Sleeve is lightweight and minimal, but it only fits the camera—no room for batteries or mounts. The Viewpoint CS 40, on the other hand, gives you full gear organization. It’s like comparing a wallet to a full briefcase. If you only carry the camera, the sleeve works. But if you need batteries, cables, and mounts, the Viewpoint CS 40 is the clear winner.

Viewpoint CS 40 vs. Peak Design Shell Case

The Peak Design Shell is stylish and well-built, but it’s larger (meant for mirrorless cameras) and heavier. The Viewpoint CS 40 is more compact and action-camera focused. The Peak Design has a nicer zipper, but the Lowepro offers better internal customization. For pure action camera use, I’d pick the Viewpoint every time.

Viewpoint CS 40 vs. Pelican 1060 Micro Case

Pelican cases are indestructible, but they’re bulky and rigid. The 1060 is great for extreme conditions, but it’s overkill for most action camera users. The Viewpoint CS 40 strikes a balance—durable enough for most adventures, but light and flexible for daily use.

Feature	Lowepro Viewpoint CS 40	GoPro Sleeve	Peak Design Shell	Pelican 1060
Weight	6.4 oz (181 g)	1.2 oz (34 g)	10.6 oz (300 g)	14.4 oz (408 g)
Interior Customization	Removable dividers	None	Fixed layout	Custom foam (not included)
Weather Resistance	Water-resistant	None	Water-resistant	Fully waterproof
Best For	Action camera kits	Camera only	Mirrorless cameras	Extreme conditions

Who Should Buy the Lowepro Viewpoint CS 40? (And Who Might Not)

Perfect For: Adventure Enthusiasts and Travel Vloggers

If you’re someone who:

• Carries multiple action cameras or accessories
• Shoots in dusty, wet, or rugged environments
• Values quick access and organization
• Travels light but needs reliable protection

…then the Lowepro Viewpoint CS 40 is a fantastic choice. It’s become my go-to case for weekend trips, hiking, and even urban exploration. I’ve used it in cities, forests, and beaches—it’s never let me down.

Not Ideal For: Heavy-Duty or Specialized Use

However, it’s not the best fit if:

• You need full submersion protection (e.g., scuba diving)
• You carry large DSLR/mirrorless kits with multiple lenses
• You need crush-proof, extreme-impact protection (think: air travel with rough handling)

For those scenarios, you might want a hard-shell case like a Pelican or a dry bag. But for 90% of action camera users, the Viewpoint CS 40 hits the sweet spot.

Value for Money: A Smart Investment

At around $30–$35, the Viewpoint CS 40 is priced fairly. You’re not just paying for a case—you’re paying for peace of mind. Think about it: A single scratched lens or dead battery can ruin a trip. For less than the cost of a memory card, you’re protecting hundreds of dollars worth of gear.

I’ve seen cheaper cases on Amazon, but most lack the build quality and smart design of the Viewpoint. And I’ve seen more expensive ones that don’t offer much more. This case delivers where it counts: durability, usability, and value.

Final Verdict: Is the Lowepro Viewpoint CS 40 Worth It?

After months of real-world testing, I can confidently say: Yes, the Lowepro Viewpoint CS 40 is one of the best action camera cases you can buy. It’s not flashy, but it’s reliable, smartly designed, and built to last. It protects your gear without weighing you down, and it adapts to your needs—whether you’re a casual weekend shooter or a serious content creator.

The customizable interior, weather-resistant build, and compact size make it a standout in a crowded market. It’s not perfect—no case is—but the minor drawbacks (like not being fully waterproof) are easy to work around with simple precautions. And the pros far outweigh the cons.

If you’re tired of stuffing your camera into a random pocket or using flimsy pouches, the Lowepro Viewpoint CS 40 action camera case is a game-changer. It’s the kind of gear you don’t notice until you don’t have it. And when you do? You’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, biking through forests, or just documenting life’s little moments, this case has your back. Your gear deserves protection that keeps up with your adventures—and this one does just that.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Lowepro Viewpoint CS 40 Action Camera Case stand out for gear protection?

The Lowepro Viewpoint CS 40 offers rugged, crush-resistant construction with customizable dividers and a water-resistant exterior, ensuring your action camera and accessories stay safe during travel. Its compact yet spacious design strikes the perfect balance between portability and protection.

Is the Lowepro Viewpoint CS 40 compatible with all action cameras?

Yes, the CS 40 fits most popular action camera models, including GoPro, DJI Osmo Action, and similar-sized devices. The adjustable interior dividers let you tailor the space to your specific gear setup.

Can the Lowepro Viewpoint CS 40 hold extra batteries and mounts?

Absolutely. The case’s padded interior has room for 2-3 action cameras, extra batteries, mounts, cables, and small accessories. The included mesh pocket helps organize smaller items securely.

How durable is the Lowepro Viewpoint CS 40 for outdoor use?

Built with weather-resistant materials and a reinforced shell, the CS 40 withstands drops, dust, and light rain. The YKK zippers add long-term reliability for frequent adventurers.

Does the Lowepro Viewpoint CS 40 come with a warranty?

Yes, Lowepro includes a limited lifetime warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. This makes the Viewpoint CS 40 a risk-free investment for protecting your action camera gear.

What’s the best way to clean the Lowepro Viewpoint CS 40 case?

Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth and mild soap for dirt or stains. Avoid harsh chemicals, and let the case air-dry completely before storing gear to maintain its water-resistant coating.