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We've tested over 40 coolers since 2016 in search of the best, most well-insulated models. For this review, we purchased 19 of the best coolers available today. We started in the lab with rigorous insulation testing and continued assessments through a wide range of real-world uses. From picnics in the park to beach BBQs, we carted these models everywhere we went to learn which models were most portable and enjoyable to use. We also went through hundreds of pounds of ice and frosty cans in our rigorous insulation tests. Whether you're setting out on a road trip or a hunting trip, we can help you choose your perfect icebox.
For a more packable cooler, check out our comparison of the best soft coolers. We've also tested the top powered coolers for those who have access to a power source and prefer an iceless approach. Whether you're planning on a relaxing beach day or a weekend camping trip at your favorite spot, we've done the hard work to help you find the best camping gear. We've got your outdoor needs covered, from the best camping chairs and the best fire pits for your backyard to the best flip flops for relaxing at camp and the best camping tents for when it's time to hit the hay.
Editor's Note: We updated our cooler review on April 24, 2024, to include more coolers (and ditch two that no longer made the cut), as well as more information on how we tested and how to select the right cooler for your needs.
Days of Cold Beverages (Measured Days Below 50º F)
7.3
Shelf Life of Food (Measured Days Below 40ºF)
6.7
Measured Weight
30.5 Ibs
Measured Capacity in Cans
82
Measured Capacity
56 qt
The Orca 58 Quart is one of the most impressive coolers we've come across to date. It outlasts almost all of the other coolers in our insulation tests, with the rest a few hours behind. The rotomolded cooler is extremely durable and gave us no concerns when we jumped, sat, and yanked on it. Its lid opens up beyond a 90-degree angle, so you won't need to worry about it closing on your hands while loading it up with goodies. We appreciate how simple and straightforward this cooler is to use. In addition, it's available in nine colors, though we recommend sticking with a lighter color to hold onto that impressive insulation.
What we especially loved about this cooler was its attention to detail and delightful features. It includes a handy exterior net pocket that runs along the length of the cooler, which is perfect for holding onto non-perishables or cutlery. And, unlike many pockets on coolers, this one is actually usable. We specifically used this pocket to hold our sandals as we carried the cooler across the beach.
For someone who is in the market for an all-around great cooler to have on hand for all purposes, this is a solid option. Plus, it comes in different colors, so you have fun options from which to choose. It's easy to pack and easy to drain, and it has tons of space inside to fit drinks and meals aplenty. Whether you're going fishing, picnicking, camping, or on a road trip, this cooler is an all-around ideal option to have on the ready.
That said, there are some slight drawbacks. The Orca has a unique take on the classic t-shaped latch design, as the "t" portion of the grip is a whale's tail. The latches are easy to grip but pose a challenge to open. We found opening and closing require two hands. The shape also makes it awkward to carry for long distances. Although you could carry it alone, it's best to get the help of a second pair of hands. If you're looking for an excellent and highly portable cooler, we recommend the Yeti Roadie 48. It has the best insulation of any model in our lineup, and its extendable handle and wheels make it super easy to move across all surfaces for long distances. That said, it comes at a steeper price, and we only recommend it to those willing to pay a premium.
Days of Cold Beverages (Measured Days Below 50º F)
7.5
Shelf Life of Food (Measured Days Below 40ºF)
6.8
Measured Weight
26.6 Ibs
Measured Capacity in Cans
77
Measured Capacity
45 qt
The Yeti Roadie 48 is our top choice for the best cooler on wheels. It is super stable to roll, and we even managed to stack other items on top of the square cooler to more easily transport our gear. It's easy to do since this cooler pulls like a suitcase. While Yeti coolers are on the pricier side, the excellent ice retention makes this cooler worth it.
What we liked most about this cooler was its outstanding ability to keep our food and drinks cold for a long time. Our food lasted 6.8 days and our cold beverages kept cold for 7.5 days. This knocks it out of the park compared to all of the other coolers. And with so much space inside, you have the opportunity to keep meals and beverages fresh for the whole family.
We really recommend this cooler for anyone who is packing a lot of gear with them, wherever you're headed. Be it the beach or the forest, this cooler makes lugging your food and beverages super easy. Thanks to its square shape, you can stack your stuff right on top of it, like you'd toss your hand luggage on your rolling suitcase at the airport.
The Yeti Roadie 48 also locks to protect your food and drinks, especially if you're camping and don't want animals finding their way inside. Just be aware that you do have to install a separate part in order to lock this cooler. It's also worth noting that while Yeti advertises a capacity of 48 quarts, we only measured 45 quarts. That said, this cooler is still among the tallest on our list (and can fit 77 cans, as well as a bottle of wine or a two-liter bottle standing up). But if you don't feel like spending several hundreds of dollars on a cooler, the much cheaper Ultralight RTIC 52 and Coleman Portable Rolling 50 qt aren't far behind in terms of portability. But they don't compare in other metrics.
Days of Cold Beverages (Measured Days Below 50º F)
6.7
Shelf Life of Food (Measured Days Below 40ºF)
6.1
Measured Weight
30.3 Ibs
Measured Capacity in Cans
90
Measured Capacity
57 qt
The Xspec 60qt is our favorite value cooler for a variety of reasons. It doesn't have any stand-out features that are super special, but it does provide solid insulation and a whole host of fun features at a much more accessible price point than other coolers we tested. Despite the lower number on the price tag, this cooler doesn't sacrifice on performance. In our insulation tests, this cooler kept our food and beverages cold for nearly a week, lasting 6.1 days below 40 degrees and 6.7 days below 50 degrees. For the price, you can't beat it.
One thing we really like about this cooler is its fun little features, like the molded ruler on the lid and built-in compass and bottle openers. It also has molded tie-down slots and an air-release button. It pays attention to detail, too, with nonslip feet, a nonslip surface, and a drain chain (so you don't lose it). Plus, its rectangular shape makes it slightly easier to lift than some square alternatives.
This cooler would have scored even higher if it was IGBC-rated for bears. But, for anyone who isn't going deep into the wilderness or worried about grizzlies, the Xspec is a solid option for a fraction of the price of many others on this list. Amongst our test metrics, it did the best with regards to insulation, but it's also durable, easy to use, and portable.
While Xspec 60qt offers a lot of bang for your buck, it's certainly not the best cooler on the market. There are a few finicky features, like the leaky drain plugs. If you're looking for an alternative that scored within the same range for each metric, the Orca 40qt doesn't insulate nearly as well, but it scored almost the same in regards to durability, just one point behind in portability and even better for ease of use and features.
Unfortunately, RTIC no longer includes the wire basket and freezable dividers with this cooler; they must be purchased separately.
SPECIFICATIONS
Days of Cold Beverages (Measured Days Below 50º F)
6.3
Shelf Life of Food (Measured Days Below 40ºF)
5.8
Measured Weight
21.6 Ibs
Measured Capacity in Cans
61
Measured Capacity
49 qt
The RTIC Ultralight 52 has nearly everything you could want from a cooler. It manages to keep a medium to large internal volume while staying lightweight and portable. While we can't control how much you plan on throwing in the cooler, it was noticeably lighter than the competition when empty. Getting it from point A to B is a breeze. The rope handles lift well above the cooler, so you won't hit your hands during transport. Not only that, it scored well across the board, specifically impressing us with its features and ease of use. This cooler also includes two drain spigots. Draining was no trouble at all, thanks to this double-drain system.
If you're looking for a cooler for daytime picnics, we highly recommend the RTIC due to its versatility alone. You don't need to pack a table to bring with you to the beach or park; you can simply eat right off the top of the cooler. The reason we wouldn't necessarily recommend this cooler for longer-term trips, however, is because of its mediocre insulation performance. Plus, it gets quite heavy when fully loaded (even though the cooler itself is quite light), but a day's worth of snacks and drinks is easier to carry.
The RTIC isn't as durable as other contenders. We should mention that nothing broke during testing, but the latches and hinges are a potential weak point. Also, we noticed it was a little leaky when sloshed around or tilted on its side, indicating the freezer-grade gasket lid doesn't actually seal shut. Lastly, the plastic handles lack cushioning. Though this may seem like a trivial detail, when packed with goodies, grasping onto hard plastic can be slightly painful, even if the cooler is a lighter option. All things considered, we were impressed with the RTIC Ultralight, with its lightweight construction, ease of use, and pleasant price. Another lightweight and inexpensive option is the Coleman 316 Series 52. Though its insulation performance isn't all that strong, it'll last for most overnighters or day trips.
Days of Cold Beverages (Measured Days Below 50º F)
6.9
Shelf Life of Food (Measured Days Below 40ºF)
6.3
Measured Weight
30.7 Ibs
Measured Capacity in Cans
98
Measured Capacity
59 qt
If a cooler on wheels sounds intriguing, the Yeti Roadie 60 is one of the top options on the market. It has two durable wheels and a retractable handle that makes it function much like a nice piece of luggage. It's remarkably easy to roll this cooler around, even on uneven surfaces. It's also one of the top-performing coolers when it comes to insulation performance. Plus, it includes a dry basket and has many additional features for an extra cost, such as a divider that doubles as a cutting board. The Roadie has tie-down slots and is lock-compatible, so you can rest assured this will stay securely in place on your truck or boat.
What is extra great about this model is that it's undeniably durable. We were able to subject it to wear and tear without showing any signs of weakness. We stood on it and even jumped on it, and it withstood the forces. It didn't leak throughout the durability tests despite being rolled around the room. And the nonslip surface of the lid is a noteworthy trait.
If you're in the market for a durable cooler with a thoughtful design, you can't go wrong with this model. Because of its durability, you can be sure to get a lot of use out of this cooler. But, for its high price, you'll want to make sure you actually plan on getting use out of it. We don't recommend this cooler for anyone who needs one for here and there. It is an investment—and a smart one—but only if you use your cooler frequently.
As an all-around great cooler, the Yeti Roadie 60 makes it hard to find anything not to love. But, understandably, it may be beyond the budget of some consumers. Still, if you can shell out the cash, we think you'll be impressed with the Roadie 60. If you're set on a Yeti but don't want the wheels, the Yeti Tundra 65 is a classic worth reading about. Though its insulation isn't nearly as strong as the Roadie 60, it includes many of the same great features (minus the wheels, of course).
Days of Cold Beverages (Measured Days Below 50º F)
6.6
Shelf Life of Food (Measured Days Below 40ºF)
6.0
Measured Weight
39.0 Ibs
Measured Capacity in Cans
78
Measured Capacity
42 qt
The RovR RollR 60 is the only model we tested that has actual pneumatic tires instead of cylindrical plastic chunks labeled as wheels. You can pump them up just like your car or bicycle tires, giving you the freedom to run over the same types of terrain. While other models often have tiny or rigid wheels, low clearance, or narrow, uncomfortable handles, the RovR is what a wheeled chest should be. Its broad handle has functional rubber grips on either end, so it's comfortable to stroll down the sidewalk, through the grass, and across the beach with this box in tow. The RovR also boasts solid, durable construction, hefty latches, and integrated hinges that we expect to last through countless picnics and get-togethers.
If all of that is not enough, this cooler also comes standard with some of the most useful features we've seen, including a large, removable dry bin and a giant dry storage box that attaches to the lid and doubles the amount of stuff you can haul. You can put everything you need for the barbecue on this cooler and wheel it to the park with one hand.
If you're someone who bikes a lot, this may be the cooler for you. You can pick up the handy bike attachment and tow the RovR behind your bicycle. It costs extra, but we bought it, tried it, and now we can't imagine life without it. Even if you're not an avid biker, this cooler's pneumatic tires are ideal for anyone taking it to traverse tough terrain on foot or on two wheels.
The most crucial aspect of any wheeled cooler is how easily it gets you there, which the RovR does spectacularly. That said, we did find the latches a little stiff to manipulate but easy to learn with practice. After using it for years now, this rolling icebox is like nothing we've ever experienced before and is the only cooler our friends request to cart around. On the contrary, if you're not interested in towing a cooler behind your bike, we recommend checking out the Xspec 60qt. This impressive ice-box has almost the exact same insulation performance as the RollR, along with some fun extra features.
We've tested soft coolers for many years, and the Engel HD30 continues to impress us. This is one of the best overall in our review of the best soft coolers. It offers some of the best insulation of any soft cooler, keeping its contents below 40º F for just over three days in our insulation testing. While many similar coolers have thick zippers that are a struggle to operate or very narrow openings that are difficult to navigate, this soft cooler is impressively easy to use. The corners unclip, allowing the top to open quite far for swift loading and locating items. And with a large (for a soft cooler) capacity of 48 cans, the Engel HD30 just might be enough to get you through a weekend of camping. Despite this oversized stature, it's more portable than we expected, with comfortable handles on each end that make carrying it that much easier. After years of regular use, this durably constructed soft-sided model looks and works just about the same as the day we first bought it.
Carrying the Engel HD30 can feel rather heavy when this cooler is packed to the brim, though we appreciate the padded shoulder strap. After a rainstorm, we also noticed the external pocket felt a little damp, although this complaint is minor. During our soak test, this cooler upheld well with minimal dampness in the interior compartments despite being submerged in water for hours. Even with these minimal gripes, this big cooler bag is our favorite thanks to the primo insulation, large capacity, and terrific features like a removable bottle opener and rounded handles. If you're not into all the bells and whistles, the AO Coolers is another excellent option that won't cost a fortune.
Lowest Temperature Achieved: -7.6º F | Power draw while cooling: 50.7 Watts
REASONS TO BUY
Outstanding temperature control and range
Top insulation for powered coolers
Sturdy and well-built
Great app
Easy to use
REASONS TO AVOID
No power saving mode
Cords shorter than average
Expensive
If you spend enough time car or van camping, you might consider upgrading from the old ice chest to a powered cooler that uses the energy from your vehicle or camper to keep things cold exactly like your fridge at home might. The best powered cooler we have tested is the seriously impressive Dometic CFX3 45. It won our Editors' Choice award in our review of the best powered coolers. It offers some of the coldest achievable temperatures and above-average insulation. It's built rugged and tough enough to withstand those questionably maintained roads you may find yourself driving down. And it is practically bursting at the seams with ridiculously convenient features and well-thought-out usability. Two internal baskets make loading and locating things that much easier, as you can lift out the basket to find what you need. An internal light assists in finding that last beer in the dark, and a tall interior easily accommodates your celebratory champagne. A free app on your phone lets you easily control and monitor your powered cooler without having to get out of your sleeping bag or camping chair.
Despite the lack of an energy-saving mode seen with many other powered coolers, the Dometic CFX3 does feature different levels of battery conservation that ensure it won't prevent you from starting your car in the morning. Even when cooling, it draws just 50.7 watts, which lands on the low end of the powered coolers we tested. Our main gripe, however, is that its cords are hardly over six feet long, so you can't get very far from an outlet. Furthermore, the price is very steep. That said, if you're ready to take the plunge into the iceless world of powered coolers, the Dometic is consistently the best-performing model we've tested. If you value energy efficiency over longevity and cooling power, the Costway 54 is a budget-friendly cooler worthy of consideration.
With a powered cooler, like the Dometic CFX3 45, bring items camping that you'd otherwise have to leave behind if you were using a soggy, meltwater-filled regular cooler.
Credit: Maggie Nichols
Compare Products
We put each cooler through a series of back to back tests to see which ones were the best of the best.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
How We Tested Coolers
This review represents over 600 combined hours spent using, abusing, and meticulously testing over 40 different ice chests since 2016 — not including the time spent researching hundreds of new and promising models to find the ones worthy of inclusion. We ran and re-ran insulation tests under controlled but harsh laboratory conditions. We dragged our test subjects through the gravel, sand, mud, and grass while road-tripping, tailgating, camping, and hanging out on the beach. We asked our friends and family, who span three generations, to help us dive into these coolers (sometimes literally) and identify the top performers. From being thrown into vehicles, dropped onto concrete from waist height, jumped on by a 200 lb tester, submerged in water, dragged across hot surfaces, yanked on, jerked around, and otherwise abused, these chests have seen it all.
Our testing of coolers is divided across five rating metrics:
Insulation (50% of total score weighting)
Durability (20% weighting)
Ease of Use (15% weighting)
Portability (10% weighting)
Additional Features (5% weighting)
Learn more about our detailed side-by-side testing in our how we test article.
Transporting bags of ice to our testing facility.
Loading up ice bags for insulation testing.
Cutting open ice bags to pour into coolers.
We purchased, hauled, and poured gallons of ice into each cooler in order to test each unit's insulation performance.
Why You Should Trust Us
This review is led by Senior Review Editors Maggie Nichols and Genaveve Bradshaw. Maggie has been playing and guiding in the outdoors for over fifteen years, from backpacking the Tahoe Rim Trail to kayaking the Caribbean. She is an avid camper and even lived in her teardrop trailer for several seasons. She spent eight years at Iowa State University, completing two science degrees and teaching numerous college science courses — so she has a comprehensive understanding of the importance of rigorous and scientific testing processes. Genaveve is an avid climber who spends day after day in the hot desert sun chasing the next pitch. In harsh conditions, a campsite cooler that actually keeps things cold is a must. She's lived out of multiple vehicles over the years during her adventures and has a keen understanding of the role a top-performing cooler has in making road life go well. Lastly, our team includes Rebecca Glades, review editor and research analyst. Throughout her time earning multiple science degrees, she has been trained in taking a non-biased approach to research. This, along with her never-ending love for the outdoors, gives her the necessary skills to create honest and trustworthy gear reviews. This team of dedicated testers and reviewers understands the power of a great cooler's value, whether for off-grid living, celebratory summit beers, road trips, or backyard barbecues.
All of the devices we use to measure each aspect of every cooler.
We bought hundreds of cans to test each cooler's beverage-holding capacity.
We put iButtons in jars, placed each one inside of a cooler, and logged the temperature over a period of nine days.
The supplies we used during our cooler testing.
How to Choose the Best Cooler For You
Cooler designs have changed quite a bit over the years, and they've also become quite a bit more expensive with the introduction of rotomolded designs. There are several types to choose from (soft coolers, powered coolers, etc), which we outline in greater detail in our cooler buying advice guide. Our review generally focuses on hard-sided ice chests, designed to keep your perishables cold for longer periods.
Cooler Construction
Many hard-sided coolers are constructed from plastic that sandwiches a layer of insulating foam. Rotomolded coolers, like the types the Yeti brand is famed for, use a heat-softened plastic that molds to the hard foam interior, creating a single fused piece of plastic that boosts insulating properties, effectively sealing cool air in and warm air out. The type of seal and locking mechanism also inform how well a cooler keeps your perishables at a safe temperature. Rubber gaskets, similar to what your refrigerator uses, help seal in the cold. For longer trips, you'll want a cooler that holds a steady, cool temperature for longer. See our buying advice article for advice on maximizing your insulation efficiency.
User-Friendliness, Portability, and Features
Ideally, your cooler should be easy to use. Are there latches, and are they easy to operate? Does the cooler stay closed when overstuffed, or when driving down a bumpy road? We like coolers with well-placed drains with tethered plugs that can't fall off or be lost. Portability is another important factor — is the cooler easy to transport? Some models have wheels, and most have handles on either side. Some are quite heavy, and easier for two people to lift when fully loaded. We also appreciate models with extra features, like an interior basket so that certain food items stay dry and don't get buried in the ice. Some models have additional dry storage on the outside, cupholders on top, and even attached bottle openers. Decide what features are important to you when making your selection.
Wheels can help, but can still be difficult over sand, gravel, or rough paths. Usually, having a friend help you tote your cooler will be the easiest way to move it.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Analysis and Test Results
The market for ice chests continues to grow, resulting in some extremely close competition and hard-fought rivalries. To help you find the right model, we tease apart performance differences between contenders, implementing specific tests spanning five exhaustive, mutually exclusive metrics. We test the insulation performance, durability, ease of use, portability, and features of every single model. As some performance aspects are more important than others, we weigh each metric accordingly. Below, we discuss our test results and which models stand out in each area.
The Yeti 45 has a handle dry goods basket that sits along the rim of the cooler.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Value
Though our scoring system of each contender's performance does not include the cost of the unit, we recognize that this is a crucial aspect influencing the decision of which one to purchase. This particular market includes a huge range of prices that make one wonder how a plastic ice box could be worth that much money. In some cases, that extra cash does bring excellent insulation performance, greater utility, and convenience. In other cases, you can spend far less without a substantial drop in overall performance. It's also helpful to consider how often you find yourself needing the cooling and insulating services these ice chests provide and how burly and rugged you need your gear to be.
When it comes to high durability, strong insulation, and usability, the Xspec 60qt is a fantastic example of a high-value item. For under $300, this model offers great features and scored well across the board. The biggest drawback we had with this cooler was a finicky drain plug, but that didn't take a toll on us being able to load it up and carry it with ease or on its insulation—which are more important to most cooler users. The Ultralight 52 is another good example. This lower-priced (yet over-performing) model has been handily getting the job done for weekends full of summer fun, all while being kind to the wallet. If you don't need such a beefy box or a lengthy time frame for storing delicate food items like raw meat, the Coleman 316 is another good choice, saving you both money and weight. On the other hand, if you're the type of explorer heading off the grid for extended periods and pushing your gear to the limits, the extra cash you'll drop on the Orca 58 is well worth the investment. This bear-resistant box provides top-notch insulation and superb usability, making it our team's go-to companion for longer trips.
The Ultralight RTIC is a great cooler that performs well and won't break the bank.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Insulation
The most important metric for most of us is how well an ice chest keeps food cold and fresh. This metric is also the source of many extraordinary claims from manufacturers. From models with "5-Day" in the name to stickers boasting up to 16 days of ice retention, it seems that just about every product out there will knock your socks off. That is until you read the fine print, which typically includes a litany of stipulations such as the entire chest has to be pre-chilled (walk-in freezer, anyone?), its contents must also be pre-chilled or even frozen (no more buying drinks straight off the shelf and tossing them in the cooler), you can only open it once a day when it's cool (what about lunch?), or you'll need twice as much ice as food. While all these things will help extend the life of your ice and, therefore, the freshness of your food, it's unlikely that every consumer will follow these stipulations for each use. So we tested these coolers the way that we, and most consumers, would use them. We bought some ice, filled each model half full, and put in a small device that measures ambient temperature. Then we simulated a hot summer trip by sealing them in a temperature controlled room for over a week while tracking and recording each unit's internal temperature.
There are two critical temperature thresholds we made a note of — 40 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Based on FDA regulations, 40 degrees is the maximum acceptable temperature recommended to ensure food safety, as it minimizes the growth of pathogenic bacteria. Put simply, keeping refrigerated food items below 40 degrees greatly reduces the chance of food spoiling and making you sick.
Cooler Insulation Ranking Table
Credit: Genaveve Bradshaw
The 50 degree threshold we highlight represents the average maximum ideal temperature to serve beer. The American Homebrewers Association breaks down the optimal serving temperature range for different types of beer, which we based this threshold on. We chose 50 degrees in part as an average maximum ideal beverage serving temperature and also to easily see the rate at which each cooler gains degrees as its ice melts within by comparing how much time there is between when each model crosses the 40 and 50-degree lines.
This graph tracks ice temperature over nine days for every cooler in our line-up. The top scoring models are located on the bottom of the graph, as they maintained the lowest temperatures for the longest duration.
Credit: Genaveve Bradshaw
The Yeti Roadie 48 takes the lead in our insulation tests with temperatures lasting below 40 degrees for 6.7 days. Additionally, it lasted below 50 degrees for 7.5 days. To put it simply, this cooler knocked all of the others out of the park in regards to insulation.
The results of our large capacity cooler insulation tests.
Credit: Genaveve Bradshaw
Another great performer in this metric is Orca 58, which lasted 6.7 and 7.3 under 40 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit, respectively. The Yeti Roadie 60 also lasted 6.3 and 6.9 days, respectively. Among the small-capacity coolers, the Orca 40 did the best, with temperatures lasting 5 and 5.5 days. Though these won't last you an entire week in the desert (unless you chill the cooler and its contents beforehand then pack it with mostly ice), it is an excellent option for weekend trips or day excursions. Both models are rotomolded with freezer-style gaskets designed to keep cold air in and hot air out.
The results from our midsize cooler insulation tests.
Credit: Genaveve Bradshaw
Of our test subjects with a manufacturer's claim for ice retention attached to them, not a single one lived up to it in our tests. As the market continues to grow, many manufacturers have stopped including specific number-of-day claims or have started adding asterisks to those claims that require limiting conditions. However, while the results from our insulation testing are, in many cases, far below some of the manufacturer's claims, we went out of our way to push these competitors to their limits. There are many tips and tricks that can help you get even more from your ice, such as pre-chilling the cooler, keeping it in the shade, and packing a 2:1 ice to contents ratio.
The results of our small capacity cooler insulation tests.
Credit: Genaveve Bradshaw
Durability
Knowing your investment will last through years and years of adventures is important for any piece of gear you own, and these products are no exception. Though we didn't have ten years to spend testing each model, we spent months subjecting them to prolonged use and a fair amount of abuse to see how they stood up to the pressure. We overextended hinges, jumped on lids, yanked on latches and handles, and dropped full chests from a carrying height. We set accident-prone friends, young children, and hefty humans loose on them to see what they're made of by pushing them in ways more typically spread across many years of use. We filled each model with water to see how well their seals worked (or if they worked at all). Several of our top-performing contestants have been in regular use for several years now, and each season we update their durability and performance information, documenting how they change over time.
Several of the models we tested have IGBC certification, meaning a certification from the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee, which verifies that the product in question has been tested by said committee and meets minimum standards for design and structural standards that are considered "bear-resistant" by a team of grizzly bear experts. The IGBC specifically states that this does not mean the product in question can't be opened or destroyed by a bear, nor does it mean the product is leakproof. That said, even the minimum construction standards required to deter a hungry 10 foot long, 900 lb grizzly lend a lot of credibility to the durability of a product. Models we reviewed that are IGBC certified include the Yeti Tundra 65, Engel 65, and RovR RollR 60. These products proved to be very durable, despite the fact our team was unable to find a grizzly bear willing to test each of them rigorously.
The Tundra's bear-resistant latches and lock.
Credit: Maggie Nichols
This bear resistance is with the assumption that you use bear-resistant locks (sold separately) to secure the closed lid of each model. Don't expect the rubber latches alone to protect your food from bears. And depending on where you find yourself on your adventures, it might not even be a legally accepted way to store your food, so be sure to always check local regulations for your destination before you leave home.
Additionally, several other aspects add to each one's overall durability beyond just a sturdy hinge and a set of bearproof locks. The latches and handles don't factor into an IGBC rating, as they are irrelevant to bear safety but pertinent to any model's longevity. Rubber T-grip latches are popular as a durable, easy-to-use solution for keeping your ice chest closed. The Yeti Tundra 65's latches performed the best in our durability testing, with a combination of thickness and sturdiness mixed with the right amount of flexibility to stay tightly in place when needed and not give away to the incessant yanking of a bored four-year-old. Even after several years of use, the Tundra 65's latches are virtually the same as the first day we bought the cooler. If you prefer thicker, sturdier latches and don't mind the extra muscling required to operate, the Orca 58 and 40 both have brawny rubber T-grips (in the shape of Orca tails) that practically exude security and confidence.
The Yeti Tundra 65 has convenient rubber latches.
Credit: Gena Bradshaw
The RTIC models have visually similar rubber latches that are much more flexible. As such, they are easy to use, lacking the stiff stubbornness of many other latches. Still, more flexible rubber might have a shorter lifespan than denser rubber, though we haven't had an issue after using these products. The Igloo BMX also has T-grip latches with slightly different shapes and thicknesses that both get the job done just fine.
The RTIC models have flexible T-shaped latches.
Credit: Gena Bradshaw
The Xspec 60qt, Engel, and Yeti Roadie 24 are some that buck the trend of popular T-grip closure mechanisms on high-end coolers. The Engel has part-rubber-part-metal latches, and the Xspec mixes plastic clasps with rubber straps that ditch the brawn for a bit more finesse when securing them. After multiple years of use, we've noticed the Xspec rubber sections have tightened up over time. This makes them just as secure as ever but requires slightly more force to operate. The Roadie 24 has plastic and rubber latches similar to the Xspec, but both are exceptionally easy to use, requiring less finagling and feeling much stronger overall.
The Xspec secures nice and snug with its latches, and when open, the lid stays out of the way.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
When it comes to handles, models with immobile handles have an additional advantage. Many models accomplish this by having two sets of handles—one indented in the sides of the chest for single-person lugging and a second set of mobile handles that extend above the top of the chest for two-person toting. The Engel, Tundra 65, Xspec, Orca 58 and 40, and the RTIC all follow this model. The RTIC 45 Ultra-Tough has a padded rope handle that's a notably good distance away from the cooler, so your hands don't hit the cooler body when carrying it. The Yeti Tundra Haul also has comfortable handles with functional and sturdy built-in handles on the body. By contrast, we weren't thrilled with the Coleman Portable Rolling 50 qt, which isn't adjustable, or the slippery plastic handles on the Igloo Polar 120.
We love that the RTIC includes a drain plug, but you'll want to keep an eye on it since it doesn't have a leash.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
There's something agreeable about an ice box that's not only well-designed and durably built but also clearly shows attention to detail at every turn. The Orca 58 and 40 are those coolers. Many competitors have visible screws holding on the latches or hinges, rope ends and knots visible, or even tiny plastic ridges left over on edges from the manufacturing process. Yet, every unit we've tested from Orca appears clean and polished. These details perhaps don't matter in the long run from a durability standpoint but go a long way toward making your expensive cooler look as impressive as its price tag and performance suggest.
The Orca models we've tested prove to be durable and also look clean and polished.
Credit: Maggie Nichols
Ease of Use
Ease of use is a critical factor in your overall happiness with any given product. We tested each model's ease of use by, well, using them. A lot. We gauged how easy each cooler was to open and close — whether or not the lid fully shut after closing, latch maneuverability, ease of loading, capacity, and if it included any convenient features like dry bins.
We gauged the ease of grabbing the handles without looking and noted whether they required extra steps to slide them out into place or push them back down out of the way. We evaluated each drain (if there was one) to see how thorough a job it does on its own and if the cooler needed to be shaken out afterwards. We also looked at how easy it was to insert and remove the plug. And for wheeled models, of course, we considered how that pair of spinning discs affects the chest's usage when you're not actively pulling it around.
The Xspec and Roadie models are notable for innovative and fairly effortless latch experiences. They combine a rubber latch for tightness and security with a plastic locking mechanism that makes them a breeze to use and requires much less brute strength than any of the 100% rubber latches demand. Meanwhile, the Yeti Roadie 48 boasts two "smart design" latches so you can open it with one hand (and we can confirm that it's doable!). The Yeti Tundra Haul two T-shaped latches; however, they are similar to the latches on the standard Yeti Tundra cooler and will require two hands for most people.
The Roadie's have easy-to-use latches that open with a two-part motion.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
As far as drains go, several products have dual-function drains, meaning there's a hole through the shaft of the drain plug that lets water run out without having to remove the entire drain cap. Of course, if you want a faster flow, a total plug removal is advised, but don't misplace that cap, as most models we tested don't come with a tether to keep it attached to the body of the box. The RTIC models, Engel, Orca(s), Xspec, and RovR all have this handy dual drain hole feature. Not too common in the smaller models, the RTIC 20 and RTIC 45 Ultra-Tough both include drain plugs, so you won't need to shake it out every time.
The RTIC 20 is one of the only small options in our lineup that includes a drain plug.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
The drain plug isn't the only factor that makes emptying water easy or annoying. Most of the contenders we tested also have a sloping channel behind the drain to help gravity pull water out. Still, several have unfortunately paired this with a large lip or other obstruction that then stops your drainage progress before it's 100% complete. Models that we found the easiest and most thorough to drain include the RTIC 48 Ultra-Tough, RTIC Ultralight, Xspec, Orca(s), and Tundra(s), which all feature either a tiny or sloped lip to make emptying your meltwater a breeze.
Even just a small drainage channel allows the opening to be below the floor of the chest, making it easier to effortlessly empty it after an outing.
Credit: Maggie Nichols
We also considered the overall shape and size of each competitor as part of its usability score. Models featuring a compact, packable shape and handles that hide away easily are easier to pack into a vehicle for your next adventure. On the flip side, those products with large handles and awkward shapes that are difficult to Tetris into the back of the minivan, along with everything else you need for the party in the park, don't score as well. Of course, the internal dimensions and capacity also make a big difference in what you can bring with you in your icebox and how many extra bags and boxes you'll need to bring along. And the proportion of these dimensions to one another also makes a big difference. A low and long model is easy to find things in but harder for one person to carry. On the flip side, one that's narrow and tall is easier to carry but harder to locate items that have wormed their way to the bottom. The Xspec strikes a very happy medium, narrow enough for simple solo carrying, tall enough to fit an upright bottle of wine, yet shallow enough to find whatever you're looking for easily. If you're interested in a huge capacity option, we're big fans of the exceptionally spacious 118-quart capacity of the Igloo Polar 120.
With a 118-quartz capacity, the Igloo Polar 120 can fit 186 cans, but it's still relatively light for its size.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
The RTIC Ultralight and RovR RollR are two more of our favorites among the crowd for their ease of use. The RovR has a sizable dry bin and tall interior with nearly vertical walls. We found this cooler easy to pack and keep organized. This feat is made even more impressive by all the bouncing you'll be doing with the enormous wheels over debris on your way to the party. It also boasts one of the tallest internal heights of any cooler we tested, so you can rest assured that your chilled Pinot Grigio will stay frosty all day. (However, the tallest coolers we tested were the Yeti Roadie 60 and Yeti Roadie 48.) The RTIC offers a similarly simple interior that's spacious enough to bring a ton of food with you on your hunting trip or camping adventure. Its dual drains make cleaning it a breeze, and the flexibility of this model's rubber latches means it's easier to open and close with a single hand than other rubber-latched models.
One of the largest dry bins of any cooler we've tested, the RovR's bin is also the only one that hand screws into place.
Credit: Maggie Nichols
Portability
At first glance, the matter of portability seems obvious: wheels? Portable. Small size? Portable. Large capacity? Not so portable. And while in general this is true, it's not the whole story. We considered these self-evident factors in our testing and looked at them in more detail. We challenged every pair of wheels to roll not only over smooth, paved driveways but also the soft sand at the beach, chunky construction debris, uneven forest floors, and lumpy uncut grass. We scrutinized every handle's design, shape, location, and comfort while carrying a full load. And we considered not just the sheer weight of each chest, but what that weight gets you in terms of capacity — as in how worth it are the extra pounds? We filled them up and loaded them in and out of cars, slogged across beaches, and traipsed through neighborhoods to see which models bashed against our knees, nipped at the backs of our heels, or formed blisters on our palms.
The Yeti Roadie 48 was the easiest cooler to transport, as it rolls like a luxury suitcase, and you can securely stack stuff on top of it. The Coleman Portable Rolling 50 qt and the Yeti Roadie 60 also impressed us and didn't score far behind. Just be careful lifting the Coleman on your own because, even though most people would be able to lift it fully loaded, it completely failed our leak test. If turned or rested on its side, or while carrying it in your arms, this cooler rushes water. Meanwhile, the Yeti Roadie 60 also rolls like a suitcase with two wheels and a retractable handle. It has no trouble tackling various types of terrain, including sandy beaches, but it still comes second to the lighter Yeti Roadie 48.
Even with the handle up, you can still easily get into the Yeti Roadie 60.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Much to no one's surprise, personal cool-boxes like RTIC 20, Yeti Roadie, and Igloo BMX are much more portable than larger models. A combination of low weight, small size, and functional carrying handles help make this possible. However, small size isn't the only aspect that affects portability performance. Among these smaller coolers, the Igloo BMX has a much broader and more comfortable handle and a smoother overall design, which makes carrying this product full of heavy glass bottles a much more pleasant experience. It also weighs less by a significant margin, which adds to its portability. The Roadie 24 has a flexible webbing strap that more comfortably facilitates an over-the-forearm carry. It also has a pair of indented handles hiding underneath both sides of the top for two-handed carry.
The over-the-top handle of the Yeti Roadie 24 is made of flexible webbing and is far more comfortable to carry on your forearm than a rigid handle.
Credit: Maggie Nichols
Boasting a lightweight frame but keeping a 49-quart capacity, the RTIC Ultralight has found the perfect balance between size and weight. Its rope straps extend far above the cooler, making it possible to carry it without slamming your hands against the frame. Built into the frame are an extra set of handles. These were particularly useful for loading onto the counter or into the car. The Coleman Portable Rolling 50 qt, however, takes the cake as it is super light at 12.5 pounds (at the lower end of the list) with great capacity (at the higher end of the list).
The Coleman Portable Rolling 50 qt is one of the most lightweight options in our lineup.
Credit: Genaveve Bradshaw
Wheeled coolers may appear astoundingly portable, but we found that their actual usefulness in this metric is wildly dependent on their wheel design and clearance. We've tested several rolling models over the years. While the Yeti Roadie 48 is our top-recommended wheeled cooler, the RovR is the only one with actual rubber tires filled with air (aka pneumatic tires), the same as a vehicle or bicycle. While competitors may point to this as a downside (more maintenance, the potential for flats, etc.), it makes for a vastly better pulling system. The juddering of pulling hard-wheeled models over smooth surfaces, like city sidewalks, can quickly leave blisters on your hands from the vibration of the plastic wheels (this really happened to a tester). But pulling the RovR with its air-filled wheels lets you glide over imperfections in the ground and keeps your hands happy.
Installation of the bike attachment takes no more than two minutes initially. If you leave the small black piece on your rear hub, adding or removing the cooler takes just a few seconds.
Our testers were thoroughly impressed at how smooth towing the RovR was by bike.
Equally as important, the RovR's handle swings out far enough from the chest's body to avoid painful heel smashing. And with motocross-style rubber handles located on the edges of the sides of the wide trolley handle, it's clear that this product is designed with the user in mind. Lastly, the bike attachment accessory is seriously impressive. Initially skeptical, we now use it all the time. Attachment is easy, and the flexible, pivoting arm allows for freedom of bike movement and no loss of turning radius or steering ability. We are so genuinely impressed by this rolling icebox's portability that we hardly even notice or mind its heavier initial weight.
The Coleman 316 is one of the lightest coolers in our lineup, making it a breeze to get around.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
As for large, non-wheeled models, the Engel and Tundra 65 are both relatively portable — their combined overall shapes and mid-50-quart capacities make finding what you're looking for easier. They're big enough to bring everything you need without being so big that they require two people to lift them out of the car. The slightly larger Xspec has a similar ratio of overall dimensions (shorter length, taller height — but not so much that it's hard to find that last beer under all the ice), and it's reasonably easy for a solo person to carry a short distance.
The thick foam handle on the RTIC 65 is comfortable in hand.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Mid-sized models offer a middle ground between the many large options that can often be overkill for a simple picnic or road trip but offer more storage space than the small personal chests. The Orca 40 is one of our favorite medium-capacity contenders. It fits a full 40 quarts of contents and whatever you can cram into the large external storage pocket covering the back of the box. Its taller, narrower shape is also more comfortable for a single person to carry from the car to the beach.
Both the Orca 40 (pictured) and the Orca 58 have a velcro-sealed mesh pocket on the back to help you more easily get everything you need all in one trip. Over time, we grew to appreciate these handy pockets much more than we anticipated.
Credit: Maggie Nichols
Additonal Features
Your level of enthusiasm for using a product can be affected by small details. Some features make a product easier to use, less burdensome to carry, or more compatible with your lifestyle. But not all features are created equal, and their value may depend on how and where you intend to use your gear. In general, we gave higher scores to more universally useful features, such as a tether for the drain plug (so you don't lose it), internal baskets or dividers to keep your food fresh, and the ability to hold dry ice, which extends the cooling capacity. Other features that are still useful but are more specific to certain styles of use received lower scores. These include things like cup holders, bottle openers, and measurement notches. We also only ranked contenders based on the features they come with and not on all the accessories you could choose to purchase for an additional charge. That said, many manufacturers offer some exceptionally handy add-ons that, should you choose to purchase them, can easily turn a product into your perfect hunting companion, tailgating buddy, or camping friend.
The RovR RollR, Yeti Roadie 60, and Yeti Tundra 65 all come with practical interior dry storage options, which are great for setting aside some clean ice for drinks or keeping sensitive food out of ice water. The Yeti models all feature a simple basket that sits across the top of the opening. The Yeti Roadie 48, for example, comes with one dry goods basket.
The RovR's dry storage goes above and beyond since it has a large dry bin that extends to the bottom of the interior. It also attaches to the side of the interior with a simple hand screw, which means it won't move during transit like most other baskets.
Meanwhile, the Coleman Portable Rolling 50 qt has four molded-in cup holders in the lid to keep your drinks sturdy at the beach or campground. The RTIC 45 Ultra-Tough has molded tie-down slots, although the straps are sold separately.
The Xspec has a built-in compass, though we don't recommend using it as your primary navigation tool
Credit: Abriah Wofford
If you're an angler, you might appreciate a model with an integrated ruler across the top to measure your catch. Many of the options we tested have this feature, including the Xspec and Igloo Polar 120. Still, others have specific slots to tie them down in your boat, backseat, or truck bed.
Bring it all along with your handy dandy Rovr RollR.
Credit: Maggie Nichols
The RovR RollR does a bang-up job of living up to its claim as being "the most feature-packed 60-quart cooler ever." Beyond the ultra-useful internal dry bin, this compact roller features a 60-quart external dry bin that attaches right to the top of the lid, doubling the number of things you can cart. When it's time for storage, the dry bin folds flat and can be easily and securely stored on top of the lid. We found these two features to be very handy in countless situations. And if you are so inclined to make additional purchases, the RovR can be mounted to the back of your bicycle like a tiny, ice-filled wagon.
We tested our coolers side-by-side for direct comparison.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Conclusion
We've been researching, testing, and retesting popular coolers for years to bring you the most competitive models out there, and this most recent round of contenders is no exception. After months of rigorous side-by-side testing and years of analysis conducted by our experts and a veritable crowd of friends and family who also enjoy fresh food and cold drinks, we got to know these models quite literally inside and out.
—
Rebecca Glades, Genaveve Bradshaw, and Maggie Nichols
