The 13 Best Coolers of 2025

Best Overall Wheeled Cooler

Xspec 45 Towable

The Xspec 45 Towable offers a strong balance of value and performance at half the cost of premium coolers. Its 3-inch-thick, 8-inch-tall wheels ensure smooth towing over sand or uneven terrain with minimal effort. Our lead tester, Gene Bradshaw, noted, “Few coolers felt as good on big bumps, roots, and curbs on our way from the car to the beach.” During our insulation test, it kept contents under 40°F for 5.9 days and under 50°F for 6.4 days — slightly less than the Yeti Roadie 48 and Rovr RollR 60, but still impressive, especially for the price.

Despite its lower cost, the Xspec 45 Towable feels well-designed and durable. It's a value cooler, not a cheap cooler. A unique snap-tight latch opens and closes easily with one hand, and its size is actually larger than advertised — 48.7 quarts versus the claimed 45 quarts. It's easy to move around with molded-in handles, dangling straps, and a telescopic handle. Every part we tested felt sturdy and comfortable. Our tester praised the soft-close lid, noting, “The slow-close hinge is super handy when packing quickly, to prevent unexpected closings.”

Days of Cold Beverages (Measured Days Below 50º F)	6.4
Shelf Life of Food (Measured Days Below 40ºF)	5.9
Measured Weight	34.9 lbs
Volume-to-Weight	1.4 qt per lb
Measured Capacity in Cans	69

The Xspec 45 offers great value for its cost, but its 34.9-pound weight may be a drawback if you can't use its wheels for transport. As our tester notes, “Remember, that is the weight empty — Load this up with 50 cans and ice, and it is a big effort to get this in and out of your car.” Consider the Canyon Outfitter 55 V2 if you don't need wheels. It will save you around 7.5 pounds and has a smart, easy-to-carry design that will last for years, although its high-quality build will cost you a bit more out of pocket. If durability isn't a priority, check out the RTIC Ultralight 52, another non-wheeled option with a similar insulation score to the Xspec, but 13 pounds lighter and even less expensive. Or, if a lower degree of insulation will work for you, the Coleman Portable 50 weighs nearly two-thirds less than the Xspec 45 and sells for a third of the price.

Read more: Xspec 45 Towable review

Best Overall for Everyday Use

Canyon Outfitter 55 V2

The Canyon Outfitter 55 V2 does it all and does it all well. It is uniquely constructed from rotomolded kayak plastic that feels grippy and rugged to the touch. It balances a high-quality build and performance well, weighing in at 27.4 lbs and keeping temperatures below 40°F for an impressive 5.2 days in our insulation performance testing. The Outfitter is also IGBC certified as bear-resistant for those who use coolers in the wilderness with curious animals around.

The latches on the Canyon Outfitter 55 V2 are unlike any others we've encountered on a cooler before. Canyon calls the style the FAT CAM Family Friendly Latch. Our tester remarked, “It feels sturdy, and I didn't find it involved any effort to use.” So, we have to agree: children and adults of varying ages will have no problem successfully using it. Durable materials, sturdy design strategies, and user-friendly features are evident throughout this cooler. We especially loved the length-appropriate strap handles that many cooler manufacturers seem to miss. Our tester Gena remarked, “The straps are long enough that I didn't bang my hands when carrying the cooler — this is so important!” The lid features a squishy black gasket that kept things nice and dry in our water slosh test. Canyon is so confident in the Outfitter 55 V2 cooler that they offer it with a lifetime warranty and free replacement parts. We love Canyon's commitment to making everyone's experience with this cooler a good time.

Days of Cold Beverages (Measured Days Below 50º F)	5.7
Shelf Life of Food (Measured Days Below 40ºF)	5.2
Measured Weight	27.4 lbs
Volume-to-Weight	1.6 qt per lb
Measured Capacity in Cans	89

The Outfitter 55 V2 features ample insulated storage space for most, though its name can be deceiving. Our testing revealed the internal capacity to be only 45 quarts, a full 10 quarts less than advertised. If storage space is what you're after, the Xspec 60qt measured up true to its claimed size at 57 quarts in our testing. Weighing in at 30.3 lbs, the Xspec 60 is less than three pounds heavier than the Canyon with the additional 12 quarts of space. Moving up in that size range, coolers get heavy quickly. At that size, you may want to consider a wheeled cooler like the Yeti Roadie 60, which delivers high-performance insulation, burly construction, and great portability, but also comes at a higher price.

Read more Canyon Outfitter 55 V2 Review

Best Traditional Cooler on a Budget

Xspec 60qt

The Xspec 60qt is our favorite value cooler without wheels. One tester notes, “It's the balance — solid insulation, fun features, and a lower price than most we tested — that works.” Despite its affordability, it performs well, keeping contents below 40°F for 6.1 days and below 50°F for 6.7 days in our tests. This is unmatched value for the price.

We love the Xspec 60qt's fun features: a molded ruler, built-in compass, bottle openers, tie-down slots, and an air-release button. It shines with details like nonslip feet and a drain chain (you won't lose the drain plug). Its rectangular shape also makes lifting easier than some square options.

Days of Cold Beverages (Measured Days Below 50º F)	6.7
Shelf Life of Food (Measured Days Below 40ºF)	6.2
Measured Weight	30.3 lbs
Volume-to-Weight	1.4 qt per lb
Measured Capacity in Cans	90

The Xspec 60qt lacks an IGBC bear rating, making it less appropriate for bear-heavy destinations. But for non-wilderness users, it's an excellent budget-friendly, large-capacity option. It offers superior insulation and impressive scores across all other metrics. If you are heading into bear country, opt for the IGBC-approved Yeti Tundra 65 instead.

While Xspec 60qt offers a lot of bang for your buck, it isn't without a few finicky features, such as its leaky drain plugs. Depending on your needs, other higher-scoring products, like the Canyon Outfitter 55 V2 or the wheeled Rovr RollR 60, may serve you better, even if sold at a higher price. If you're looking for another versatile option that scores similarly to the Xspect 60qt for each metric and sells within the same price range, the RTIC 65 is the jack of all trades we'd point you toward.

Read more: Xspec 60qt review

Best Value for Large Capacity

Igloo Marine Ultra 70

The Igloo Marine Ultra 70 delivers high capacity storage at an approachable price with surprisingly solid insulation performance to boot. Our in-house measurements put the Igloo at a roomy 76 quarts, six more than the manufacturer advertises, and in our insulation assessment, we found it able to maintain temperatures below 40 degrees for 4.2 days. This cooler is a featherweight compared to almost every other model we've reviewed, especially considering its capacity, weighing in at just 13.6 pounds. We also note Igloo has taken steps to address potential durability concerns by upgrading its hardware to stainless steel on the hinges and lid latch for a longer lifespan.

The Marine Ultra 70 is part of Igloo's Marine Collection and features the best handles we've ever seen on an Igloo cooler. Our tester Gena reports, “These handles are great, built with super textured grips that are very easy to grab and hold onto, and built in a 'swing away' style so you don't hit your hands against the cooler's body when in use.” Unfortunately, that's the only part of the design that's grippy. This cooler does not feature nonslip feet or any textured plastic on the body of the cooler, which we feel would be a critical feature for coolers used in marine environments. If you're looking for a cooler more suited for slippery situations, we suggest checking out the Canyon Outfitter 55 V2's multiple tie-down options, nonslip feet, and grippy kayak plastic construction.

Days of Cold Beverages (Measured Days Below 50º F)	4.6
Shelf Life of Food (Measured Days Below 40ºF)	4.2
Measured Weight	13.6 lbs
Volume-to-Weight	5.6 qt per lb
Measured Capacity in Cans	114

The Igloo Marine Ultra 70 has some shortcomings you should consider before purchasing. The lid does not feature any sort of gasket and leaks profusely when tilted at an angle or carried while walking. Our tester also mentioned, “I worry that the handles feel strained when I lift it fully loaded up with ice and cans.” This poses some concern about the handles' usable lifespan. This Igloo delivers a lot of value but isn't right for everyone. If you're looking for a cooler with a more robust build, the Xspec 60qt costs significantly more for a similar capacity, but it does a great job justifying that price. The Xspec 60qt kept temperatures below 40 degrees for 6.2 days, two days longer than the Igloo. It also features nonslip feet, a much better sealing lid, and will likely last much longer than the less durable Igloo.

Read more Igloo Marine Ultra 70 Review

Best Cooler for the Tightest Budgets

Coleman Portable Rolling 50

The Coleman Portable Rolling 50 is a budget-friendly cooler that shines among the competition, with greater capacity and easy portability and surprisingly capable wheels at just 12.5 pounds — a fraction of the 30.3-pound Xspec 60qt. One lab tester noted, “Even though the wheels don't seem that burly, I was able to roll it over most terrain types.” The telescoping handle of this unit raises to a comfortable height that seems appropriate for most people and feels satisfactory to pull. The Portable 50's lid also features four shallow cup holders, one in each corner. Although we'd recommend pulling this cooler, it also includes molded-in handles for carrying or lifting it.

The Portable Rolling 50 offers four days of insulation under 40°F. That's good, but ice melts about 1.6 times as fast as in the top-rated coolers. For an average day at the beach, this is plenty of insulation. But if you are camping over multiple days or on an outing in temps over 100°F, you will notice how much more ice you have to buy with this Coleman than you would with a premium cooler. For example, the Yeti Roadie 48 is of a similar size and can hold temperatures under 40 degrees for almost seven days.

Days of Cold Beverages (Measured Days Below 50º F)	4.6
Shelf Life of Food (Measured Days Below 40ºF)	4.1
Measured Weight	12.5 lbs
Volume-to-Weight	4.2 qt per lb
Measured Capacity in Cans	90

The lid of the Coleman Portable Rolling 50 cooler does not feature any seal or gasket. This is likely a large contributor to its average insulation performance. It can also pose problems when moving the cooler, as water can slosh around and leak significantly. Still, this Coleman is the pinnacle of value if you're just shopping for day trip use and working with a limited budget.

Read more: Coleman Portable Rolling 50 review

Best Premium Wheeled Cooler

Yeti Roadie 48

The Yeti Roadie 48 blew other coolers out of the water across all test metrics, proving it merits its top-of-the-line reputation and the hefty price tag that comes along with it. No other cooler matched its insulation performance. Our food lasted 6.8 days, and our cold beverages kept cold for 7.5 days. The Xspec 60qt was a close second at 6.2 days under 40 degrees, but it doesn't have wheels. This is the best of the best for a wheeled option, if you can afford it.

It's as easy to maneuver the Roadie 48 cooler as you would your rolling luggage, and its shape allows you to stack items on top to carry easily. It doesn't replace a beach wagon, but is still super helpful. Our lead tester, Gena Bradshaw, noted, “This cooler is perfect for anyone hauling lots of gear, whether to the beach or forest — I just stack things on top and roll.”

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 lbs
Volume-to-Weight	1.7 qt per lb
Measured Capacity in Cans	77

The Roadie 48 locks to safeguard your food and drinks from animals while camping, but requires a lock installation kit (purchased separately). While we measured this cooler at only 45 quarts (not the claimed 48), it still fits a lot: 77 cans, plus a bottle of wine or a two-liter bottle standing up.

The main question is whether this cooler is worth the high cost. The Xspec 45 Towable is about half the cost and keeps food and drinks cold for 6 days, only one day shorter than the Yeti. But it is 8 pounds heavier and just feels bulky.

If you are just using your cooler for the day, the Coleman Portable Rolling 50 qt is much easier to move around than the Roadie 48. Sure, it has about half the insulation performance, but it also gives you about 20% more usable space and is only 12.5 pounds empty, less than half the weight of this Yeti. Our test team reaches for the Coleman for most beach days, but the sturdy Yeti is unquestionably the ultimate cooler for any camping trip or situation where you want premium insulation.

Read more: Yeti Roadie 48 review

Most Portable Large Capacity Cooler

Yeti Roadie 60

If a large 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, making it function like a large piece of wheeled luggage. Rolling this cooler around is remarkably easy, even on uneven surfaces. It's also one of the top-performing coolers in our lineup when it comes to insulation performance. Plus, it includes a dry basket and has many additional features for purchase (at extra cost), such as a divider that doubles as a cutting board. The Roadie 60 is lock-compatible and has tie-down slots, so you can rest assured this will stay securely in place on your truck or boat.

What is extra great about the Roadie 60 is that it's undeniably durable. We stood on it and even jumped on it to reveal vulnerabilities, yet it withstood the force and never leaked at any point. The nonslip surface of the lid also proved a noteworthy trait for keeping items in place when placed on top (or your feet, if you are stepping on it). After enduring extensive durability tests, our lead tester was happy to report: “I subjected the Roadie 60 to heavy wear and tear over weeks of testing, and it never showed any signs of weakness.”

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 lbs
Volume-to-Weight	4.7 qt per lb
Measured Capacity in Cans	98

You can't go wrong with this model if you're in the market for a durable cooler with a thoughtful, highly functional design that's sure to offer years of reliable use. But, because of its high price tag, you'll also want to make sure you plan to get equal amounts of use out of it. We don't recommend the Roadie 60 for anyone who only needs a cooler once in a blue moon. It is an investment. Although it is smart for frequent users, it is likely overkill for anyone who only needs light or short use. If you only need a cooler occasionally and are on a tight budget, we recommend the Coleman Portable Rolling 50. Keep in mind, you get what you pay for.

The Yeti Roadie 60 is an all-around great cooler and makes it hard to find anything not to love. But, understandably, it may be beyond the budget of some consumers. Still, we think you'll be impressed if you can shell out the cash. 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).

Read more: Yeti Roadie 60 review

Best for Towing

RovR RollR 60

The RovR RollR 60 is the only model we tested with 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 them over the same types of varied 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 RollR 60 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, the RollR 60 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. GearLab tester Gena Bradshaw emphasizes, “I can put everything we need for a barbecue on this cooler and still wheel it to the park with one hand.”

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 lbs
Volume-to-Weight	1.8 qt per lb
Measured Capacity in Cans	78

If you bike a lot, the RovR RollR 60 may be the cooler for you. You can pick up the handy bike attachment and tow the RollR 60 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 two wheels. Another great option with capable wheeled performance is the Yeti Roadie 60, which weighs almost ten pounds less than the RovR.

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 chest has almost the same insulation performance as the RollR and some fun extra features.

Read more: RovR RollR 60 review

Best Lightweight Cooler

RTIC Ultralight 52

The RTIC Ultralight 52 has nearly everything you could want from a cooler. It offers a medium-large internal volume while remaining lightweight and portable. While we can't control how much you plan on throwing into the cooler, it was noticeably lighter than the competition when empty. That means 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 extra 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 Ultralight 52 due to its versatility alone. Several testers pointed out its multi-purpose shape, with one saying, “I found 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 is quite light), but a day's worth of snacks and drinks is easier to carry. If the 21.6-pound RTIC still seems heavy and you don't need to maximize your long-term insulation, consider checking out the Igloo Marine Ultra 70, which weighs only 13.6 pounds.

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 lbs
Volume-to-Weight	1.8 qt per lb
Measured Capacity in Cans	61

The RTIC Ultralight 52 isn't as durable as other contenders, but the latches and hinges are a potential weak point, even if nothing specifically broke during testing. Also, we noticed it was a little leaky when sloshed around or tilted on its side, indicating the freezer-grade gasket lid doesn't fully seal shut. Lastly, the plastic handles lack cushioning. Though this may seem trivial when empty, it's a different story once packed with goodies. Grasping onto hard plastic can become slightly painful on the hand, even if the cooler is a lighter option.

All things considered, we were impressed with the RTIC Ultralight's 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.

Read more: RTIC Ultralight 52 Review

Top Lunchbox Cooler

RTIC Ultra-Light 22

The RTIC Ultra-Light 22 is the perfect size for use as a lunch box or for solo travelers and is available in a variety of vibrant colors. The 2-in-1 shoulder strap/handle is made of durable webbing and features a neoprene comfort handle-grip. Although there are no additional handles rotomolded on the RTIC, our tester confirms an alternative option, saying, “I found there is enough of a lip molded into the cooler's body to make it grabbable, if not using the strap, although it does require some effort.”

The Ultra-Light 22 could hold temperatures below 40 degrees for 3.4 days and below 50 degrees for an additional nine hours. Not an ideal performance for a longer excursion, but as a lunch box, the RTIC's performance is more than adequate. A handy silicone pocket hidden on the underside of the lid is nifty for storing small snacks or eating utensils. If you're ever concerned about the security of the contents of your cooler, the Ultra-Light is lockable. RTIC also has a large selection of accessories available for purchase that are compatible with this cooler, which allow you to customize it to your liking. We really like the slot-in dividers for keeping things organized.

Days of Cold Beverages (Measured Days Below 50º F)	3.8
Shelf Life of Food (Measured Days Below 40ºF)	3.4
Measured Weight	11.6 lbs
Volume-to-Weight	2.4 qt per lb
Measured Capacity in Cans	38

The Ultra-Light 22 is hard to beat when it comes to portability, but if its price is too much for you to stomach, we would point you in the direction of the Igloo BMX 25 and Engel 19 Drybox. Both of these coolers are similar in size to the RTIC and would make great lunchbox-style coolers. They are also available at a more accessible price. That being said, tradeoffs aren't without consequences. The Engel performed worse in our insulation tests, keeping temps below 40 degrees for only 1.9 days. This is still adequate performance for a day-to-day lunch cooler, but well below the RTIC Ultra Light 22. The Igloo BMX 25 actually surpassed the RTIC in our insulation testing, maintaining temps below 40 degrees for four days, but ultimately doesn't feel as durable and comfortable to carry as the RTIC.

Read more: RTIC Ultra-Light 22 Review

A Valuable Tool for Entertaining

East Oak Rotomolded 25

The East Oak Rotomolded 25 departs from the norm in almost every way traditional coolers are designed. It features a striking, cauldron-like shape, along with a lid that can open in either direction or be removed completely for easy, versatile access. We feel this cooler would fit right in at a backyard BBQ, as an accessory for a beach event, or in a picnic photo shoot — with the lid off and invitingly loaded full of ice and drinks. It delivered respectable results in our insulation testing, proving that the East Oak is about more than just good looks, keeping temperatures below 40 degrees for 4.2 days.

The Rotomolded 25 has only one set of handles, and unfortunately, they do not feel well-designed. Our test Gena complained, “The rope handles are way too short for one person to carry comfortably; they are barely 2 inches long, so your knuckles and hands bump against the cooler with every step you take.” We found that the handle straps are also slightly different lengths. The visually interesting shape of this cooler makes it more awkward to carry than standard rectangular forms. We feel it is a deal breaker for anyone who is traveling with a cooler or will have to move it frequently when in use. This model is a great tool for stationary entertaining and creating a compelling aesthetic, but we wouldn't recommend it otherwise.

Days of Cold Beverages (Measured Days Below 50º F)	4.6
Shelf Life of Food (Measured Days Below 40ºF)	4.2
Measured Weight	16.7 lbs
Volume-to-Weight	1.9 qt per lb
Measured Capacity in Cans	40

If a chic cooler for entertaining isn't what you're looking for, we'd suggest something more portable, like the Yeti Roadie 24. It has a similar capacity to the East Oak but is designed for on-the-go use, with handles molded into the cooler's body and a carry strap. The Roadie doesn't compromise on insulation performance and is also available in larger sizes. Any options larger than the 24 also feature very capable wheels, as seen on the Yeti Roadie 48 and Yeti Roadie 60.

Read more: East Oak Rotomolded 25 Review

Best Soft Cooler

Engel HD30

Closure Type: Leakproof Zipper | Weight: 5.9 lbs

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 soft coolers. In our insulation testing, it offers some of the best insulation of any tested, keeping its contents below 40ºF for just over three days. While many similar coolers have thick zippers that can be difficult 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 camping. Despite its oversized build, our testers remarked, “It's more portable than I expected, and the comfortable handles on each end make carrying it that much easier.” After years of regular use, this durably constructed soft-sided model looks and works like 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, the external pocket felt slightly damp. However, this complaint is minor, and during our soak test, the HD30 held up well with minimal dampness in its interior compartments despite being submerged in water for hours. Even with these minimal gripes, this big cooler bag is our favorite thanks to its 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 24 Pack Canvas Cooler is another excellent option sold at half the cost.

Read more: Engel HD30 review

Related: The Best Soft Coolers of 2025

Best Powered Cooler

Dometic CFX3 45

Lowest Temperature Achieved: -7.6º F | Power Draw While Cooling: 50.7 Watts

If you spend enough time camping in a car or van, 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 electric coolers and offers some of the coldest achievable temperatures and above-average insulation among all those we tested. One tester who is a big fan commented, “This thing is built rugged and tough enough to withstand those questionably maintained roads I often find myself driving down — that's a win right there.”

The CFX3 45 is practically bursting at the seams with ridiculously convenient features and well-thought-out design when it comes to usability. Two internal baskets make loading and locating things much easier, as you can lift out the basket to find what you need. An internal light can assist you in finding that last beer in the dark, and a tall storage space easily accommodates your celebratory champagne. A free app on your phone also lets you easily control and monitor your powered cooler without having to get out of your sleeping bag or camping chair.

Despite its lack of an energy-saving mode, something seen with many other powered coolers, the Dometic CFX3 does feature different levels of battery conservation to ensure it won't prevent you from starting your car in the morning. Even when cooling, it draws only 50.7 watts, which lands it on the low end of the wattage requirements of all tested powered coolers. Our main gripe, however, is that its cords are hardly over six feet long, so you can't ever get very far from an outlet. Furthermore, the price is very steep, which will cause it to be out of reach for many shoppers. If you're ready to plunge into the iceless world of powered coolers, the Dometic is consistently the best-performing model we've tested.

Read more: Dometic CFX3 45 review

Related: The Best Electric Coolers of 2025

Compare Products

Compare select up to 5 products to compare

	Score	Product	Price
	92	Yeti Roadie 48 Best Premium Wheeled Cooler	$425
	87	Yeti Roadie 60 Most Portable Large Capacity Cooler	$475
	86	Xspec 45 Towable Best Overall Wheeled Cooler	$227
	84	Canyon Outfitter 55 V2 Best Overall for Everyday Use	$300
	83	RovR RollR 60 Best for Towing	$399
	82	Xspec 60qt Best Traditional Cooler on a Budget	$227
	77	RTIC 65	$250
	77	Yeti Tundra 65	$375
	77	Yeti Tundra Haul	$450
	76	RTIC Ultralight 52 Best Lightweight Cooler	$199
	73	RTIC Ultra-Tough 45	$220
	71	Engel 65	$300
	69	Yeti Tundra 45	$325
	65	RTIC Ultra-Light 22 Top Lunchbox Cooler	$130
	64	Yeti Roadie 24	$250
	63	Ninja Frostvault 50	$250
	59	East Oak Rotomolded 25	$126
	57	Igloo Marine Ultra 70 Best Value for Large Capacity	$80
	57	RTIC 20	$149
	54	Igloo BMX 25	$97
	53	Igloo Polar 120	$110
	52	Coleman Portable Rolling 50 Best Cooler for the Tightest Budgets	$65
	51	Coleman 316 Series 52	$50
	45	Engel 19 Drybox	$90
	41	Coleman Chiller 48	$40

How We Tested

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 spanning 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 cooler testing was focused on examining 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.

Why Trust GearLab

Our 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. Senior Review Analyst Genaveve Bradshaw leads testing, an expert at applying the most scientific approach possible to test and rate a diverse array of products. Among the many innovative tests she designed and conducted for this review, Gena rigged up an impressive array of data-logging Thermochrons for a carefully controlled multi-day cooler insulation test to ensure we capture accurate comparative data on how well each cooler maintains its chill over time. She is joined by Senior Review Editors Maggie Nichols and Becca Glades, and Review Editor Kolby Anderson.

Maggie has played and guided outdoors for over fifteen years, and is an avid camper who once lived in a teardrop trailer for several seasons. She spent eight years at Iowa State University, completing two science degrees and teaching related courses, before applying her comprehensive understanding of the scientific processes to testing gear. Becca has also earned multiple science degrees, which have trained her well for a later life as a reviewer. Her non-biased approach to research and testing, combined with a never-ending love for the outdoors, ensures she has all the necessary skills to deliver comprehensive, honest, and trustworthy reviews.

Kolby is the newest review team member, having spent much of his career in the construction industry, often grinding days away in triple-digit heat where a poorly performing cooler can ruin a day. His life and career path have led him to become deeply skilled in various hands-on crafts and professional fields, where his eagerness for knowledge and obsession with product specs, details, and performance results have made him a confident problem solver, and now, an ever-curious and thorough review editor.

Analysis and Test Results

The market for ice chests continues to grow, resulting in 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 every model's insulation performance, durability, ease of use, portability, and features. 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.

What's the Best 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 market includes a broad range of prices that make one wonder how a plastic ice box could be worth so much. In some cases, that extra cash does bring excellent insulation performance, greater utility, and convenience. In other cases, you can spend far less without substantially dropping overall performance. It's also helpful to consider how often you need your ice chest's cooling and insulating services and how burly and rugged your activities require 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 scores well across the board. The biggest drawback with this cooler was a finicky drain plug, but that didn't take much of a toll. We had no problem loading it up and rolling it easily, and its reliable insulation kept our perishables cool — all far more important factors to most cooler users.

If 60 quarts seems like more space than you need, Xspec also makes a smaller wheeled version that is a great cooler for a great price. The Xspec 45 Towable features the same high durability and high-performance insulation and also includes beefy 8-inch tall 2.5-inch thick wheels, making it very capable and similarly portable.

The Ultralight 52 is another good example where cost and performance meet in a sweet spot. This lower-priced (yet top-performing) model can handily get the job done over many weekends of summer fun, all without punishing the wallet. For simple use, like a backyard barbeque or days at the park that don't involve storing perishable food items, like raw meat, for a very long time, the Coleman 316 is another good choice. It will save you money and weight if you are ready to sacrifice performance in other areas.

On the other hand, if you're the type of explorer who heads off-grid for extended periods and pushes your gear to the limits, the extra cash you'll drop on the Canyon Outfitter 55 V2 is well worth the investment. This IGBC-certified bear-resistant cooler provides top-notch insulation and a rugged, user-friendly design, making it our team's go-to companion for a wide variety of outdoor adventures.

Insulation

The most important metric for most of us is how well an ice chest keeps food cold and fresh. Many factors will profoundly impact the results you see once you put it to use: the thickness of the insulation, the way the insulation is housed, and the material design and execution of its seals and latches.

This metric is also the source of many extraordinary claims from manufacturers. We've seen it all. From models promising “5-Day” (cooling) in their names to product stickers boasting “Up to 16 days of Ice Retention,” it seems that just about every cooler out there has insulation that will knock your socks off. That is, until you read the fine print, which typically includes a litany of stipulations, like: 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 such manufacturer guidelines may help extend the life of your ice and, therefore, the freshness of your food, it's unlikely that every consumer will follow all such stipulations when the product is put to use.

To come to a comparatively objective assessment of this metric, we tested how we — and we believe most consumers — would use these coolers in real-life use scenarios. We bought some ice, filled each model half full, and inserted 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.

We flagged two critical temperature thresholds: 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. Simply put, keeping refrigerated food below 40 degrees reduces the chance of camping food spoiling and making you sick.

The 50-degree threshold represents the average maximum ideal temperature to serve beer. We set this threshold to track based on the optimal temperature range for serving different types of beer, as established by the American Homebrewers Association. This 50-degree standard also allows us to easily monitor the rate at which each cooler heats as the ice melts within, allowing us to compare how much time passes between reaching the 40 and 50-degree marks.

The mid-sized Yeti Roadie 48 leads our insulation tests with temperatures lasting below 40 degrees for 6.7 days. Additionally, it lasted below 50 degrees for 7.5 days. This capable cooler knocked all of the others out of the park for insulation.

The large Yeti Roadie 60 also lasted 6.3 and 6.9 days, respectively. Trailing slightly behind the high-performing Yetis, another large cooler, the Xspec 60qt, kept temps below 40°F for 6.3 days and below 50°F for 12 more hours. Though these won't last you an entire week in the desert (unless you chill the cooler and its contents beforehand and then pack it with mostly ice), they are an excellent option for weekend trips or day excursions. All three top models are rotomolded with freezer-style gaskets designed to keep cold air in and hot air out.

While none of the smallest-sized coolers were in the running for top insulation performance, the Yeti Roadie 24 proved this model dominates in all sizes, holding to 40°F degrees the longest (at this size) at 4.3 days, and reaching 50°F degrees just a few hours later at 4.7 days. We also feel the midsize Xspec 45 qt Towable deserves an honorable mention, because although it didn't top our charts in insulation performance, it still performed remarkably well and is much more affordable than the top performers. This unit lasted 5.9 days below 40°F and 6.4 days below 50°F.

Not a single cooler lived up to the lofty claims made by their manufacturers during our tests. However, it's worth noting that our test team intentionally ignored all manufacturer recommendations for optimal performance. Instead, we went out of our way to push these coolers to their limits, but still designed our test plans based on expectations for average-user behavior, which meant starting with room temperature coolers that we filled halfway with ice to start the test. So, while our insulation testing results may be, in many cases, far below some of the manufacturer's claims, 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. However, many users will not have the time or bandwidth to take such proactive steps to prepare their coolers for optimal use. And, as the cooler market grows, we note many manufacturers have stopped including specific number-of-day claims or have started adding asterisks to those claims, restricting them to limited conditions.

Overall Insulation

The final insulation score combines the results from our granular data gathered by the iButton sensors used in our testing. It summarizes it with an easily understandable visual representation of how effectively each cooler is insulated. Coolers with higher ranking better sequestered the cooler's contents from the surrounding environment. Those that quickly surpassed safe and desirable temperatures scored lower. Coolers with lower insulation scores still have relevant use cases and often include specific accessories or features that might be more important than pure insulation performance.

Durability

Knowing your investment will last through years and years of adventures is important for any gear you own; 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 rotation for several years now, and each season, we update their durability and performance information, documenting how they change over time.

Durability

Product	Sit, Yank, Pull Score	Water Slosh Test	Longevity Score
Canyon Outfitter 55 V2	9	9.5	9.5
Xspec 45 Towable	9	8	9
Engel 65	9	10	7
Yeti Tundra 65	9	8	9
RTIC 45 Ultra-Tough	7.5	10	6
RTIC Ultra-Light 22	6	9	8
Yeti Roadie 48	9	6	8
Xspec 60qt	8	8	7
Yeti Roadie 60	7	7	8
Rovr RollR 60	7	7	8
RTIC 65	8	5	9
Yeti Tundra 45	8	5	8
East Oak Rotomolded 25	7	7	7
Yeti Tundra Haul	8	5	8
Yeti Roadie 24	3	8	7
RTIC 20	5	5	8
Ultralight RTIC 52	7	5	5
Engel 19 Drybox	5	8	4
Ninja Frostvault 50	6	2	7
Igloo Marine Ultra 70	5	2	7
Coleman 316 Series 52qt	3	3	4
Igloo BMX 25	3	1	5
Igloo Polar 120	4	1	2
Coleman Portable Rolling 50	3	1	3
Coleman Chiller 48	3	1	2

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 Canyon Outfitter 55 V2, Yeti Tundra 65, Engel 65, and RovR RollR 60. These products proved very durable despite our team not finding a grizzly bear willing to test each of them rigorously.

Additionally, several other design aspects add to each IGBC-certified cooler'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 long-lasting use. 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, not even giving way to the incessant yanking of a bored four-year-old. After several years of use, the Tundra 65's latches are still virtually identical to the first day we bought the cooler. Canyon takes an uncommon approach to latches with the Fat Cam Family Friendly Latches found on the Outfitter 55 V2. Our tester, Gena, found them really interesting and easy to use, saying, "I haven't seen anything like this on any class of cooler; a black plastic latch from the body snaps to a metal bar on the lid — you just fold it shut, and it easily snaps and locks into place. Rad!"

The RTIC models all have rubber latches that are very flexible and are easy to use, lacking the stiff stubbornness of many other style latches. Still, more flexible rubber might have a shorter lifespan than denser rubber, though we haven't had an issue, even after extensive use of these products. The Igloo BMX also has T-grip latches with a slightly different shape and thickness from others we see. Both do the job just fine.

The Xspec 60qt, Xspec 45 Towable, 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 models mix 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 that the Xspec rubber sections have tightened over time. This makes them as secure as ever, but requires slightly more force to operate. The Roadie 24 has plastic and rubber latches similar to the Xspec models, but both are exceptionally easy to use, requiring less finagling and feeling much stronger overall.

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 65, Tundra 65, Xspec 60, and the RTIC all follow this model. The Xspec 45 Towable takes it a step further by including molded-in handles, slung handles, and a telescoping handle for rolling the cooler on its burly wheels.

The RTIC 45 Ultra-Tough has a padded rope handle that's a notably good distance 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, which isn't adjustable, or the slippery plastic handles on the Igloo Polar 120.

There's something satisfying about an icebox that's well-designed, durably built, and clearly shows attention to detail at every turn. The Canyon Outfitter 55 V2 lives up to that claim. 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. As we examined the clean appearance of the Canyon cooler, it was evident that the design was well thought out, with each feature serving a purpose well and executed with quality in mind. From a durability standpoint, these details may not matter in the long run, but they go a long way toward making your expensive cooler look as impressive as its price tag and performance suggest.

Overall Durability

Our final chart shows a summarized comparison of all aspects of our durability testing and research. Everything from standing on them, yanking on the handles, and tossing them around full of water is considered in this overall ranking. The coolers with the highest scores showed evidence of long-lasting components and high-quality construction. Those that score lower are more prone to failure and won't hold up as long as others. As with most products, it's important to understand the warranty and if replacement parts are readily available in case of a component failure. Our data suggests that more money seems to buy more durable coolers.

Ease of Use

Ease of use is critical to 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 stayed open while we packed it, if the lid fully shut after closing, latch maneuverability, ease of loading, capacity, and if it included any convenient features like dry bins.

Ease of Use

Product	Handles & Straps	Lid & Latches	Drain
Canyon Outfitter 55 V2	8	10	8.7
Yeti Roadie 48	8.5	9	8.6
Xspec 45qt Towable	8.5	8.5	8.6
Yeti Roadie 60	7.5	9.5	8.4
Yeti Tundra 45	9	8	8.2
Yeti Tundra 65	9	8	8.2
RTIC 65	8	8	8.3
RTIC 45 Ultra-Tough	8	8	8.2
Rovr RollR 60	7.5	8	8
Xspec 60qt	7	8.5	7.2
Yeti Tundra Haul	7	8	7.4
RTIC Ultra-Light 22	7	8	7.2
Ultralight RTIC 52	7	7	7.4
Igloo Marine Ultra 70	6	7	6.2
Ninja Frostvault 50qt	6	6.5	6.2
Yeti Roadie 24	5	8	5.4
RTIC 20	6	6	6.4
Engel 65	5	7	6.2
Igloo BMX 25	5	7	5
East Oak Rotomolded 25	4.5	6	5.8
Engel 19qt Drybox	5	5	4.2
Igloo Polar 120	4.5	5	4.2
Coleman Portable Rolling 50 qt	5	4	4.2
Coleman 316 Series 52qt	4	4	4
Coleman Chiller 48qt	4.5	2	2.8

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 did on its own and if the cooler needed to be shaken out afterward. We also looked at how easy it was to insert and remove the plug. And for wheeled models, we considered how that pair of spinning discs affects the chest's usage when you're not actively pulling it around.

The Xspec, Roadie, and Canyon models are notable for innovative and fairly effortless latch experiences. The Xspec and Roadie 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 Canyon takes a different approach entirely with a hard black plastic latch coated with rubberized material that effortlessly snaps onto a metal bar molded into the cooler for a very secure feel. The Yeti Tundra Haul has two T-shaped latches, similar to the latches on the standard Yeti Tundra 45 and Tundra 65 coolers, which require two hands for most people.

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 removing 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 larger RTIC models (Ultralight 52, 65, and 45 Ultra-Tough), Engel 65, Canyon Outfitter 55 V2, Xspec 45 Towable, Xspec 60 qt, and RovR RollR 60 all have this handy dual drain hole feature. It is not too common in the smaller models, but the RTIC 20, RTIC Ultra-Light 22, and East Oak Rotomolded 25 include drain plugs, so you won't need to shake them out every time.

The drain plug isn't the only factor that makes emptying water easy or annoying. Most 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 included the RTIC Ultra-Tough 45, RTIC Ultralight 52, Xspec 45 Towable, RTIC 65, Rovr RollR 60, and both Yeti Roadie(s), which all feature either a tiny or sloped lip to make emptying your meltwater a breeze. The East Oak 25 takes a unique approach we haven't seen on most other coolers and has the drain plug at an angle to help drainage.

We also considered each competitor's overall shape and size 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. Small rectangular chests like the Engel 19 Drybox, RTIC 20, and Yeti Roadie 24 will fit even behind a car seat and stash easily in a closet. Large yet streamlined models, like the Canyon Outfitter 55 V2 or Ultralight RTIC 52, can be easily slid into a trunk, tethered to a truck bed, or stacked easily in the garage for storage. On the other hand, products with awkward shapes or protruding handles like the Ninja Frostvault 50qt can be difficult to Tetris into the back of the minivan.

Of course, the internal dimensions and capacity available to pack food also make a big difference in what you can bring into your icebox and how many extra bags or other boxes you'll need. And the proportion of these dimensions to one another also makes a big difference. A low and long design makes it easy to find things inside, but harder for one person to carry. On the flip side, a taller and narrower cooler is easier to carry but makes it harder to reach items that have wormed their way to the bottom.

The Xspec 45 Towable, Xspec 60qt, and the Canyon Outfitter 55V2 all strike 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. We like that the lid of the Canyon opens to about 95 degrees and confidently stays open while packing. The Xspec 60qt is for those seeking a traditional cooler with ample space, and the 45 Towable is for those looking for a more compact and wheeled cooler. 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.

The RTIC Ultralight 52 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 a tall interior with nearly vertical walls. We found this cooler easy to pack and keep organized. This feat is even more impressive considering all the bouncing you'll do 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. Although the tallest coolers we tested were the Yeti Roadie 60 and Yeti Roadie 48. The RTIC Ultralight 52 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.

The Ninja FrostVault 50 is unique in its design approach, offering traditional cooler storage above with 42.9 quarts and a dry zone drawer on the bottom featuring 28.2 quarts of space. We love the ingenuity of this design, but having two separate storage compartments in a cooler isn't very space-efficient (we couldn't fit a bottle of wine upright in this unit). The locking mechanism of the drawer has a convenient feature that shows a bright orange indicator when locked, so you don't accidentally pick it up without securing the drawer.

Overall Ease of Use

Compiling all of our ease-of-use testing, we created a summary chart to best represent each cooler's overall ease of use based on our testing. We considered how many cans fit inside, how comfortable the different carry handles are, and how convenient each cooler is to load and store. Coolers with multiple convenient handles and easy-to-use latches score higher. Those that are difficult to use or are missing key features to make them user-friendly score lower. Budget correlates with greater ease of use, reinforcing the adage “you get what you pay for.”

Portability

At first glance, the matter of portability seems obvious. Wheels? Portable. Small size? Portable. Lightweight? Portable. Large capacity? Not so portable. While, in general, this is true, any one factor is not the whole story. We assessed each design component on every cooler in its own right before evaluating how the combined packages work together to facilitate movement when your needs include packing up to go.

Weight is important when considering which cooler is right for you. If you've got a heavy icebox before adding a single beverage, getting it to your final destination may not be easy. This is where volume-to-weight ratios can come in handy. How much storage capacity are you getting for each pound of cooler you carry (empty)? You should also carefully consider how much that cooler will weigh once full and if there are any assistive tools, like wheels, to help you move your box of goodies wherever you need it.

When your party's needs are high volume, distances are short, and extra helping hands (or features) are available for transit, it often makes sense to aim large. Among the biggest coolers we tested (those with carrying capacities at 55 quarts or larger), the Igloo Polar 120 and the Igloo Marine Ultra 70 reign supreme, offering a massive 6.6 or 5.6 quarts of capacity, respectively, for every pound of the empty chest. That's space for A LOT of drinks. Whether you're hydrating your kid's soccer team or you and your coworkers are setting up an informal bar for an office Christmas party, you can rest assured that the bulk of your cooler's weight will be generated by the contents chilling inside.

If you're packing for an average small-group adventure, a medium-sized chest (35-54 quarts) is often the way to go. Here, Coleman delivers the best useable space-to-weight ratio, with their Chiller 48, 316 Series 52, and Portable Rolling 50 models providing 2-4.5 times more capacity to store goods than any other option of a similar size. But, keep in mind that without wheels, a fully-packed mid-sized cooler can become a sizeable burden if you have any real distance to cover. And even those with such mobility aids, like the Coleman Portable Rolling 50, come with tradeoffs to achieve these ratios. Lighter-weight cooler options like the Colemans tend to sacrifice other design strengths — like insulating properties — to achieve a high-volume, lightweight final package. This is something to keep in mind as you consider your own performance needs.

When you've got a much smaller picnic to account for (35 quarts or less), a high-volume, low-weight option like the Engel 19 Drybox merits a look since it can reduce the potential demands on your back and hands before you've even walked out the door. However, the tradeoff for the larger capacity in a small-sized box includes extremely poor insulation compared to other choices, making it hard to justify a purchase to maximize the storage space alone.

While size and volume are important, how you will transport your chest is equally critical to decision-making. Are there wheels? How large? Easy to roll? Can they handle varied terrain? Is it easy to control? If carrying your cooler using handles alone, where are they placed, what is their shape, and how much padding do they provide?

We took all these questions to the lab, challenging every cooler to prove its worth. We tested each wheeled — and even unwheeled — model to see if it rolled or dragged well over smooth, paved driveways and on terrain like soft sand, chunky construction debris, uneven forest floors, and lumpy, uncut grass. We scrutinized every handle's design and placement, evaluating its comfort in the hand when carrying a full-capacity load. We filled each cooler up, loaded them into and out of cars, slogged them across beaches, and traipsed with them through neighborhoods to see which models bashed against our knees, nipped at the backs of our heels, or formed blisters on our palms. We learned a lot.

The Yeti Roadie 48 was the easiest cooler to transport, as it rolls like a luxury suitcase, and you can securely stack other items on top of it. The Xspec 45 Towable and the Yeti Roadie 60 also impressed us, nipping at the heels of the Roadie 48, with the Coleman Portable Rolling 50 qt coming in just below thanks to its lightweight design and wheels. Just be careful lifting the Coleman on your own because, even though it's a very light 12.5 pounds, it can leak water out of the top lid. 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 Roadie 48. The Xspec 45 delivers a comfortable rolling experience, although it didn't survive our leak test without some water escaping upon tilting. Fortunately, it doesn't create tsunami-like conditions when jostled as the Coleman did during the same test, so we don't think it will prove a significant problem under most average conditions. One tester noted, “I wouldn't consider the Xspec 45 leakproof, but I would feel just fine wheeling it around knowing there's water inside, since I also know any potential leakage will be minor and won't cause a huge mess.”

To no one's surprise, personal-sized cool-boxes like the RTIC Ultra-Light 22, RTIC 20, Yeti Roadie 24, Engel 19 Drybox, and Igloo BMX 25 are much more portable than larger models. A combination of low weight, small size, and functional carrying handles helps 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. A pair of indented handles is hiding underneath both sides of its top for two-handed carry as well. The Engel 19 Drybox features a minimalist, hard plastic handle on top with a hinge and a shoulder strap. Given its size, we felt these handles were adequate but have a lot of room for improvement compared to others with sturdier and more comfortable carry options.

Boasting a lightweight frame but keeping a 49-quart capacity, the RTIC Ultralight 52 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 is an extra set of handles. These were particularly useful for loading onto the counter or into the car. The Coleman Portable Rolling 50, however, still 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).

Wheeled coolers may appear astoundingly portable, but 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 RollR 60 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 RollR 60 with its air-filled wheels lets you glide over imperfections in the ground and keeps your hands happy.

Equally as important, the RollR 60's handle swings out far enough from the chest's body to avoid painful heel smashing. 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 mind its heavier weight (unless we're carrying it up or down stairs).

As for larger, non-wheeled models, the Engel 65, Igloo Marine Ultra 70, and Yeti Tundra 65 are all relatively portable — their combined overall shapes and midsize 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 Marine Ultra 70 is technically a large capacity cooler, but it's so lightweight, weighing only 13.6 pounds, that we still feel it's worth noting how highly portable it is. The slightly larger Xspec 60 has a similar ratio of overall dimensions (approximately one inch taller), and it's reasonably easy for a solo person to carry a short distance.

Mid-sized models offer a nice middle ground between the many large options that can often be overkill for a simple picnic or road trip, and the limited storage space offered by smaller personal-sized chests. Among unwheeled mid-sized models in our lineup, the RTIC Ultralight 52 and its slightly heavier sibling, the RTIC Ultra-Tough 45, stand above the rest for their easy portability. However, the Canyon Outfitter 55 V2 actually ranks among our favorite mid-sized contenders in the lineup, even though it's technically advertised as a large cooler with a capacity of 55 quarts.

In testing, our measurements documented the Canyon Outfitter 55 V2 with a capacity of only 45 quarts (10 less than advertised). And while its measured length of 28.6 inches places it comfortably among the large cooler subgroup, its shorter width and height (15.4 by 16.8 inches) make it more compact than most others (more akin to what we see on the larger side of the mid-sized group). The Outfitter 55's narrower shape proved more comfortable for a single person to carry from the car to the beach. We also found the length of its dangling handles to be perfect to avoid hitting your hands against the cooler's sides or having the cooler's body bounce against you when you walk. Plus, the rounded edges of the molded-in handles provide extra comfort and confidence when carrying it.

Overall Portability

Our summarized portability chart accounts for all of our testing done across a wide range of terrain and circumstances to give an overall perspective of how each cooler performed. Coolers with more handles and options for transport score higher, and those with uncomfortable or inconvenient methods of transport score lower. Wheeled coolers are inherently more portable than most traditional coolers, but some are quite lightweight with well-designed handles that are still quite portable in many circumstances.

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. However, 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 only ranked contenders based on their features and not on all the accessories you could purchase for an additional charge. That said, many manufacturers offer some exceptionally handy add-ons that, should you choose to purchase them, that can easily turn a cooler into your perfect hunting companion, tailgating buddy, or camping friend.

The RovR RollR 60, 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 Ninja FrostVault 50 takes an entirely different approach and partitions part of the cooler storage area into a dry zone drawer, which is nice and can't be misplaced like a dry basket might be.

The RovR RollR 60's dry storage goes above and beyond since it has a large dry bin extending to the interior's bottom. 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 and Igloo Marine Ultra 70 both have four molded-in cup holders in the lid to keep your drinks sturdy at the beach or campground. The Igloo has channels molded into the cup holders to allow drainage, which is a nice detail. The RTIC 45 Ultra-Tough has molded tie-down slots for securing your cooler to a boat or pickup (although the straps are sold separately). The Xspec 45 Towable checks many boxes with tie-down slats, two built-in bottle openers, an integrated ruler, and some models even feature a built-in compass. The Engel 19 Drybox is pretty bare bones when it comes to additional features, but is available in an impressive 12 different colors.

If you're an angler, you might appreciate a model with an integrated ruler across the top to measure your catch. Many options we tested have this feature, including the Xspec 60 and Igloo Polar 120. Still, others have specific slots to tie them down in your boat, backseat, or truck bed.

It would be unjust not to mention the Canyon Outfitter 55 V2 when it comes to additional features. It has multiple slots for options when tying it down, and a wide variety of accessories available for purchase on their website. The 55 V2 is also covered by Canyon's *Sh*t Happens* lifetime warranty which includes free replacement parts, should you ever need them. We love how committed Canyon is to those willing to spend their hard-earned money on one of their capable coolers.

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 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 RollR 60 can be mounted to the back of your bicycle like a tiny, ice-filled wagon.

Overall Additional Features

Some coolers are simple and have limited or no available accessories, while some manufacturers are very creative and offer a wide variety of useful accessories and attachments. Coolers with some accessories and a variety of color options will score higher. Coolers with little to no included or additional purchasable accessories scored lower. Our testing found that most well-built coolers included thoughtful accessories and design features. At the same time, the budget offerings come with few accessories and often have none available for later purchase.

How to Pick 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 (hard coolers, 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 longer.

How Much Insulation Do You Need?

What do you plan to use your cooler for? How long will you need to keep perishables fresh before returning them to a refrigerator or replenishing with ice? If you primarily need a cooler for afternoon barbeques at home or a day at the beach, a lower degree of insulating protection in your cooler may work just fine. If you plan a multi-night trip into the backcountry where fresh ice is unheard of, you need to have confidence in the cooler you will carry your meals in. The material construction of a cooler is a key determinant in how well it will keep your perishables safely cold, and it can also be a significant factor in cost. It's important to consider your real use needs before honing in on a shortlist for consideration.

Many hard-sided coolers are constructed from plastic that sandwiches a layer of insulating foam. Rotomolded coolers, like the ones brands like Yeti are 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 informs 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.

What Design Features and Accessories Will You Need?

Ideally, your cooler should be easy to use. Are there latches, and are they easy to operate? Does the lid stay closed even when packed to the gills or driving down a bumpy road? We like coolers with well-placed drains and tethered plugs that can't fall off or get 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 not get buried in the ice. Some models have additional dry storage outside, cupholders on top, and even attached bottle openers. Decide what features are important to you when making your selection.

Conclusion

We've been researching, testing, and retesting popular coolers for years to bring you the most competitive models, 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. Keep GearLab in mind to help you make smart, informed decisions on all your camping gear needs.