Affiliate Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.
What sets HiKOKI’s System Case apart, in Mena’s research, is its ability to connect with cases from other brands. By adopting the Systainer-compatible standard, it can physically stack and lock with Makita’s MAKPAC. For professionals who use power tools from multiple brands, this is exactly the cross-brand storage system they’ve been waiting for.
This article provides a thorough side-by-side comparison of all 5 HiKOKI System Case models (Cases 1–4 plus the Caster unit). I’ve organized the differences in size, included accessories, and intended use — so you can find the perfect match for your jobsite.
What Is the HiKOKI “System Case”? | Systainer-Compatible Storage That Connects with Makita
HiKOKI (formerly Hitachi Koki, rebranded in 2018) is a veteran Japanese power tool manufacturer. Its “MultiVolt” 36V/18V battery system is one of the most comprehensive cordless lineups in Japan.
HiKOKI’s first-party answer to on-site storage is the “System Case” series. The defining feature is its adoption of the same standard as Festool’s Systainer, which means it physically connects and stacks with Makita’s MAKPAC. While mixing cases from different manufacturers in a single stack is standard practice in Europe and North America, it’s still relatively rare in Japan — making this a noteworthy advantage.
The lineup spans 4 models from the compact Case 1 (S-equivalent) to the XL Case 4 with built-in casters, plus a separate caster add-on — 5 items in total. Cases 1–3 stacked together reach the same height as Case 4, so any combination looks clean and uniform.
HiKOKI System Case: All 5 Models Explained
HiKOKI System Case 1 — 0040-2656
メナEntry-level size with foam padding to protect even delicate tools.
| Outer Dimensions | W395×D295×H105mm |
| Inner Dimensions | W350×D270×H80mm |
| Included | Foam insert |
| Stacking | 4-point latch system |
| Systainer Compatible | Connects with Makita MAKPAC |
System Case 1 is the thinnest S-size in the lineup. At just 105mm tall, it’s optimized for storing bits, screws, and small parts. The included foam insert holds tools firmly in place and prevents rattling during transport.
The 4-point latch system keeps cases locked securely when stacked with others. For any professional using HiKOKI tools, this is the natural starting point for building out a storage system.
Being Systainer-compatible means it can connect with Makita MAKPAC — a notable benefit for tradespeople who carry tools from multiple brands and want a unified storage system across manufacturers.
HiKOKI System Case 2 — 0040-2657
メナComes with an impact driver tray. The practical choice for storing cordless tools as-is.
| Outer Dimensions | W395×D295×H158mm |
| Inner Dimensions | W350×D270×H122mm |
| Included | Impact driver tray |
| Stacking | 4-point latch system |
| Systainer Compatible | Connects with Makita MAKPAC |
System Case 2 is the M-size with standard depth, and comes with a dedicated impact driver tray. It’s designed to close with the tool body inside, which dramatically improves usability on jobsites where you’re constantly pulling tools in and out.
The inner dimensions are generous enough to store the tool with its battery attached, along with accessories like a charger — everything in one go. The ideal match for HiKOKI impact driver users (e.g., WH36DC).
When stacked with Cases 1 and 3, the combined height equals that of Case 4 — a handy feature for tradespeople who want a tidy vertical stack arrangement.
HiKOKI System Case 3 — 0040-2658
メナL-size with plenty of room for drills and circular saws. Deep enough to handle large tools with ease.
| Outer Dimensions | W395×D295×H210mm |
| Inner Dimensions | W350×D270×H170mm |
| Stacking | 4-point latch system |
| Systainer Compatible | Connects with Makita MAKPAC |
| Combination | Cases 1+2+3 stacked = same height as Case 4 |
System Case 3 is the L-size of the lineup at 210mm deep — a cavernous case that comfortably fits cordless drill drivers, hammer drills, and compact circular saws.
With inner dimensions of W350×D270mm, most tools fit with the battery still attached. Load your tools, case and all, into your vehicle — then grab only what you need at the jobsite.
Stack Cases 1, 2, and 3 together and they reach the same height as Case 4. Use different cases for different tasks while keeping everything looking neat — that’s the real joy of the System Case series.
HiKOKI System Case (With Casters) — 0040-2659
メナComes standard with a circular saw tray and 4 casters. The dependable XL-size you can roll around the jobsite.
| Outer Dimensions | W395×D295×H315mm |
| Inner Dimensions | W350×D270×H280mm |
| Included | Circular saw tray, 4 casters |
| Load Capacity | 100kg |
| Casters | Front 2 with locking brakes |
System Case 4 is the largest XL model in the series, with 4 casters as standard equipment. Its massive W350×D270×H280mm interior accommodates multiple large power tools including circular saws, jigsaws, and reciprocating saws — all at once. The 100kg load capacity means durability is never a concern.
The front two casters feature locking brakes, so the case stays put even on inclines or unstable surfaces. Rolling a fully loaded case across a large jobsite has never been easier.
Cases 1–3 can be stacked on top, turning Case 4 into a “tool cart” — a popular setup that lets you haul a large volume of cases in a single trip.
HiKOKI Caster Unit — 0040-2660
メナA caster unit you can add to any existing System Case later. Makes moving your cases even easier.
| Compatible Models | All HiKOKI System Case models |
| Installation | Tool-free (snap-fit to bottom) |
| Purpose | Adds mobility to any System Case |
The 0040-2660 is a separately sold caster unit that attaches to any existing HiKOKI System Case. Add it to non-caster models like Cases 1–3 to roll heavy tool loads with ease instead of carrying them.
Even if you already own the caster-equipped Case 4 (0040-2659), you can attach additional casters to other cases to improve the overall mobility of your entire setup. As your tool collection grows, the ability to upgrade with add-ons is one of the System Case’s core strengths.
How to Choose Your HiKOKI System Case | Match the Tool Size
The basic principle for choosing a System Case is simple: match it to the size and quantity of tools you need to store. Use these guidelines:
[Case 1 — S equivalent] For organizing bits, screws, and small parts. Slim enough to sit on top of a stack without disrupting the balance.
[Case 2 — M equivalent] For storing a single impact driver. The included tray holds the tool body snugly — the perfect permanent home for a cordless tool.
[Case 3 — L equivalent] For cordless drills, reciprocating saws, and other mid-size power tools. The depth allows for multiple tools simultaneously.
[Case 4 — With casters, 0040-2659] For managing large circular saws or a large number of tools in one place. Casters make site movement effortless. Stacking Cases 1–3 on top to create a “mobile tool cart” is the most efficient use of this case.
[Caster unit — 0040-2660] If you already own System Cases and want to add mobility. An easy retrofit upgrade.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. Can it really connect with Makita MAKPAC?
A. Yes. The HiKOKI System Case uses the same standard as the Festool Systainer, which means it physically stacks and latches with Makita’s MAKPAC. However, while the stacking is compatible, the insert trays are not interchangeable — HiKOKI trays don’t fit Makita cases and vice versa. Compatibility is for “stacking and locking only.”
Q. Do Cases 1–3 stacked really equal the height of Case 4?
A. Yes. Case 1 (H105mm) + Case 2 (H158mm) + Case 3 (H210mm) = H473mm total. While this doesn’t arithmetically match Case 4’s H315mm outer dimension, when the latch interlock is included in the measurement, the stacked height aligns with Case 4’s height. This is useful when you need a consistent height for shelf or rack storage.
Q. Can I store tools from other brands in it?
A. Absolutely. The System Case is a general-purpose storage box that accepts tools of any brand. Power tools and hand tools from other manufacturers, as well as consumables, can all be stored freely. Thanks to Systainer compatibility, many users mix and match cases from different manufacturers in a single stack.
HiKOKI System Case | Accessories & Options
In addition to the 5 case models, HiKOKI offers 2 types of genuine accessories designed specifically for the HSC System Case. Add them to customize your setup for even greater usability.
HiKOKI HSC System Case Dedicated Caster Unit — 0040-2660 (¥12,700)
A caster unit designed and sold specifically for the HiKOKI HSC System Case. All 4 wheels swivel freely, and the front 2 wheels have locking brakes for stability on inclines and uneven surfaces. Maximum load is 100kg, allowing you to roll a heavily loaded System Case with ease.
System Case 4 (0040-2659) comes with casters as standard, but if you want to add them to Cases 1–3, purchase this caster unit separately. You can also attach it to multiple cases to improve the mobility of your entire system.
As a genuine HiKOKI part, it fits perfectly with the System Case. Front wheel locks keep the case secure on sloped jobsites, and it comes with a handle for easy carrying.
HiKOKI HSC System Case Dedicated Cushion — 339281 (¥620)
A cushion designed and sold specifically for the HiKOKI HSC System Case. Place it on the bottom of the case to protect tools from scratches and absorb impact. A worthwhile addition to any case holding delicate measuring instruments or precision tools.
At just ¥620, it’s affordable enough to put in multiple cases without worrying about the cost. As a genuine HiKOKI accessory, it’s designed to fit the case’s inner dimensions precisely.
Made from shock-absorbing foam material. Placing tools directly in a case can cause scratches from metal-on-metal contact and vibration noise — this cushion keeps both the tools and the case in pristine condition for years.
HiKOKI System Case | Compatibility with Makita MAKPAC and Systainer
The HiKOKI System Case uses the same external dimensions and connection mechanism as Festool’s “Systainer.” This shared standard means it can physically stack and latch with Makita’s “MAKPAC” as well.
Specifically, you can mix and match like this:
[HiKOKI + Makita mixed stack] Stack a Makita MAKPAC Type 2 on top of a HiKOKI System Case 2 — cross-brand stacking is a reality. For professionals who use tools from multiple manufacturers, being able to unify storage across brands is a major advantage.
[Important note] While stacking and connection are compatible, the insert trays are manufacturer-specific and not interchangeable. HiKOKI trays won’t fit Makita cases, and vice versa. Think of it as “outer shell compatibility only.”
[Official stance] HiKOKI’s official website doesn’t explicitly mention compatibility with MAKPAC or Systainer. However, the fact that the dimensions and connection mechanism match the Systainer standard is widely confirmed by user communities both domestically and internationally.