The 5 Best Electric Coolers of 2025

Our Picks of Electric Coolers

Best Overall Electric Cooler

Dometic CFX5 45

Average Difference Between Display / Actual Temp (F) i	0.6 F
Hours to Cool i	0.5 Hours
Weight i	36.2 lbs
Capacity (volume)	39.6L 40 quarts
Capacity (cans)	69

The Dometic CFX5 45 is a seriously impressive powered cooler that's convenient to use, durable enough for any adventure, and designed to keep things cool and fresh under nearly any circumstance. It's one of the quietest models we tested, and its smooth, rectangular shape will fit beautifully in most rigs. “I love this cooler's interface. Its screen is bright and incredibly crisp,” said our lead tester. It features a streamlined app to complement its easy-to-use interface, but you don't need the app to change most settings. With two internal baskets and a removable divider, it has the organizational capacity and convenient dimensions to fit all the items you might want to bring — from a bottle of wine to omelette supplies for the morning. The internal light faces backward, a drain allows for easy cleaning, and a single USB port on the front ensures you'll always know where to plug your phone. “This cooler impressed me with its sturdy, sleek design. The elegant matte plastic, aluminum handles, and fender frame-protected edges feel bombproof and didn't receive any damage during testing,” our lead tester stated. There's a lot to love about this powered cooler, and it comes with a 5-year warranty, which is the longest of any powered cooler we tested.

The CFX5 doesn't have a power-saving “Eco” mode, unlike many other fridges. However, it draws less than average watts while cooling (even to subzero temperatures), so it doesn't seem to need a power-saving mode. It also features three battery protection levels that adjust the cooling cycle duration, effectively mimicking a power-saving mode. Furthermore, it is one of the most expensive models in our lineup. If you're looking for a slightly cheaper model with lower energy consumption, check out the Anker Everfrost 40, which costs less than the CFX5 and includes a small rechargeable battery to keep you powered anywhere. Overall, the CFX5's impressive performance, rugged durability, and hard-to-understate convenience make it the best we've tested. “I think this is worth the investment for serious camping and van living,” our lead tester declared, and the rest of us agree.

Read more: Dometic CFX5 45 review

Best Value for a Small Powered Cooler

BougeRV 23 Quart

Average Difference Between Display / Actual Temp (F) i	3.0 F
Hours to Cool i	1.3 Hours
Weight i	19.8 lbs
Capacity (volume)	21.7L 22.9 quarts
Capacity (cans)	23

The BougeRV 23 Quart electric cooler is compact, lightweight, and easy on your wallet. “It's not the best at anything, but it has a convenient size and shape that make it a breeze to carry, and a price tag under $200,” our lead tester stated. “I never strained while transporting this little guy, even when it's packed to the brim, ” our tester continued. This cooler features excellent temperature control, allowing it to reach sufficiently cold temperatures to freeze its contents. It features two power modes and battery protection, which automatically shuts off when the voltage drops low enough to drain your battery. The screen is easy to read, and all the buttons automatically lock after a few seconds to prevent accidental changes in settings.

While the BougeRV is a stellar choice for a small capacity cooler, we did find a few drawbacks. Our biggest complaint is condensation, which accumulates along the upper walls after the device has been powered on for a few hours. For those who want more capacity at a comparable price, consider the Euhomy 59 Quart, which also eliminates condensation issues. We also didn't love the lid closure. The lid mostly stays shut with a magnetic latch, but you don't feel the latch catch in place, like you would with a physical latch mechanism. Overall, this is an excellent option for individuals seeking a compact, powered fridge that can fit in a car packed with camping gear.

Read more: BougeRV 23 Quart review

Best Value Large Capacity Powered Cooler

Euhomy 59 Quart

Average Difference Between Display / Actual Temp (F) i	0.6 F
Hours to Cool i	11.2 Hours
Weight i	28.7 lbs
Capacity (volume)	50.9L 53.8 quarts
Capacity (cans)	88

The Euhomy 59 Quart is a quiet, steady performer that offers impressive capacity and features at a great price. “It's not the fastest cooler on the market, but it delivers solid performance across the board with a huge capacity that makes it perfect for extended trips,” our lead tester noted. This model can hold a whopping 88 cans and features two zones, complete with a removable basket. The LCD touch panel, internal light, and Bluetooth compatibility make it incredibly user-friendly. “Despite being large, I can pick it up and carry it on my own - I may waddle a bit when walking since it's so large, but moving this cooler while solo is doable,” our tester continued. All our testers were impressed by the whisper-quiet operation. Sometimes, we could only confirm it was on by checking the screen.

While the Euhomy excels in nearly every category, it isn't great with cooling times. “It takes a maddeningly long time to cool,” our lead tester stated. However, once it has reached the target temperature, it maintains that temperature well. If you're willing to spend a little more money, the Renogy 53 Quart has a similar capacity and much faster cooling times. The BougeRV 23 Quart also cools faster than the Euhomy, but has a smaller capacity. Also, the Euhomy's lid is wobbly and rattles on its hinges when fully open. This durability concern is notable, but it didn't fail during testing either. Overall, if you're looking for an electric cooler with a huge capacity at an affordable price, this is an excellent option.

Read more: Euhomy 59 Quart review

Best for Fast Cooling Time

Engel MT45 Combination Platinum Series

Average Difference Between Display / Actual Temp (F) i	0.7 F
Hours to Cool i	0.3 Hours
Weight i	50.5 lbs
Capacity (volume)	44.7 L 47.2 quarts
Capacity (cans)	69

The Engel MT45 Combination Platinum Series is the best electric cooler when cooling speed and power are your top concerns. This model excels in temperature control and build quality. “It's marvelously quick at cooling!” our lead tester gushed. During testing, it took just 20 minutes to reach 38°F, and it maintains very accurate temperatures that match its LED display readings. The galvanized steel construction kept our drinks safe and cold. “I appreciate the sturdy construction and vibration-resistant compressor for driving remote dirt roads,” our lead tester stated. This cooler is extremely well insulated, too. When we unplugged it at the end of the day, its exceptional insulation kept cans icy cold overnight and well into the next day. It features thoughtful design elements that make it easy to use, including digital temperature control, dual USB ports, removable wire baskets, and a fully removable lid, making it an excellent option for serious adventurers.

Although we love many aspects of the Engel MT45, it comes with some trade-offs. The biggest drawback is that it's pretty energy-hungry. As our lead tester said, “Based on my observations during multiple tests, this cooler uses a bit more energy than most of the other compressor models.” Also, this is one of the loudest coolers we tested. It makes a distinctive, high-pitched, whirring noise when it kicks on. While this noise is noticeable, it's not annoying, and with time, we got used to it. If you're looking for a quieter model, we recommend checking out the EcoFlow Glacier, which is impressively quiet. The EcoFlow also features a built-in icemaker, a unique addition among powered coolers. However, the Engel has significantly faster cooling times and better temperature control than the EcoFlow. If ultra-fast cooling with accurate control is what you're after, this workhorse is the perfect choice.

Read more: Engel MT45 Combination Platinum Series review

Best Dual Zone Powered Cooler

Renogy 53 Quart

Average Difference Between Display / Actual Temp (F) i	0.3 F
Hours to Cool i	0.3 Hours
Weight i	40.6 lbs
Capacity (volume)	46.4L 49 quarts
Capacity (cans)	76

The Renogy 53 Quart electric cooler stands out with its unique dual-zone temperature control and impressive cooling speed. It's also one of the fastest cooling models we tested. The huge 76-can capacity, paired with thoughtful features like built-in wheels, an adjustable lid, helpful app control, and unique touches like an integrated cutting board, makes it incredibly user-friendly. And while this is a big, heavy cooler, the wheels and tow handle make transport surprisingly manageable. It also has a 40° anti-shake mechanism to handle rough roads and long rolls to camp.

The Renogy's biggest weakness is its poor temperature control, which undermines its otherwise impressive performance. During testing, both compartments fluctuated within 5 degrees of the desired temperature range, and they were unable to maintain the same temperature in both compartments despite being set for 24 hours. If precise temperature control is your top priority, we recommend the top-performing Dometic CFX5 45. The Renogy's build is a cheap-seeming plastic, and its smudge-prone screen isn't the best for visibility, whereas the Dometic's crisp interface is tactile and functional. However, the Renogy costs significantly less than the Dometic, and it is one of the few coolers that allows you to set different temperatures within its two compartments. This is an excellent option for anyone who wants to store items like raw meat or frozen foods at a separate temperature from drinks and produce. While it might not look as fancy, it's sturdy enough for long-term use.

Read more: Renogy 53 Quart review

Not Recommended

Igloo Iceless Versatemp 35 Quart

The Igloo Iceless Versatemp 35 Quart is an inexpensive powered cooler that revealed some serious red flags during testing. It only comes with a DC charging cable, has terrible insulation, and no battery protection. During testing, it never reached 40°F, so any food you store in this wouldn't be kept cold enough. Most importantly, though, the charging cable gets hot during use. We're not talking about warm here; we mean the cable gets so hot that it could melt and stop working, or pose a safety hazard.

Read more: Igloo Iceless Versatemp 35 Quart review

How We Tested

Our testing is anchored in a thorough side-by-side testing plan to pit these cooling machines against one another. We filled them to the brim with room-temperature cans, forced them to maintain their coldest temperatures for days, and slept in the same small room with them to gain a full understanding of their noise levels. We loaded them with food, beverages, and delicates that spoil easily, like milk, eggs, and raw meat. From bouncing down unmaintained dirt roads to being carted across parks for picnics, and serving as impromptu step ladders and seats, these coolers have seen it all. During all this rigorous testing, we take note of their insulating properties, ability to maintain temperature control, the amount of energy they consume, ease of transportation, and any included features that enhance or hinder the user experience.

Why Trust GearLab

Our cooler guru for this review is Genaveve Bradshaw. Genaveve graduated with honors from the University of New Mexico with a major in music, where her time as a classical musician taught her the importance of dedicated practice, thorough research, and a meticulous eye for detail — skills that prove invaluable when testing complicated outdoor gear. Whether she's setting routes at the local climbing gym or evaluating how well a cooler maintains its temperature during a burly multi-day adventure in the Sierra Nevada for Gearlab, she brings technical skills, problem-solving, and out-of-the-box thinking to the table. Electric coolers are near and dear to her heart, as she relies on hers every weekend when she hits the road for climbing or skiing trips.

Genaveve is joined by Maggie Nichols, who has been leading the testing of this category for several years now. Maggie has spent months living out of her teardrop trailer and relying on a powered cooler to keep her food refrigerated. Her background in conducting scientific research and her decades of experience living outdoors in remote locations, from the wild savannahs of Western Africa to the scorching beaches of the Galapagos Islands, give her an eagle eye for backcountry comfort. A firm believer that living in the wilderness doesn't mean eating subpar food, Maggie is passionate about bringing her favorite ingredients on every car camping weekend and cross-country road trip. She spends weeks wading through the world of powered coolers before selecting the latest and greatest contenders to be subjected to our rigorous testing.

Also contributing his expertise is Sam Schild. Sam is a long-time outdoor adventurer who has spent thousands of nights sleeping off the grid. He has ridden a bike across the US on multiple occasions, thru-hiked the Triple Crown of long-distance hiking, and lives full-time in a converted campervan, where he uses his electric cooler daily for everything from keeping drinks cold to finding the ideal temperature for half-eaten pints of ice cream.

Analysis and Test Results

Since 2019, we have been testing electric coolers to form a complete picture of each cooler's performance. We implement a wide range of tests over six different, mutually exclusive metrics.

What's the Best Value?

These big cold boxes come in a staggering array of prices, from two to four digits. Although some of the most expensive models we tested are also top performers, several stand out as high-value options with exceptional performance that matches or outstrips their price tags.

The least expensive compressor coolers we recommend are the BougeRV 23 Quart and Euhomy 59 Quart. If you're looking for a smaller, high-value model, we recommend the BougeRV. If you want something with more capacity, consider the Euhomy. But price isn't the only factor that makes a great value.

You see, neither the BougeRV nor Euhomy performed as well as the Dometic CFX5 45 overall. Although these inexpensive models are a good value, we think Dometic's durability, temperature control, time to cool, and ease of use also make it an excellent value. If you factor in the 5-year warranty that comes with this model, compared to the much shorter warranty periods for the Bouge RV (2 years) and Euhomy (1 year), that larger upfront cost may be a better value purchase in the long run.

The whisper-quiet Cooluli Classic 4L boasts the most substantial value for a Thermoelectric cooler. This tiny model resembles a miniature fridge and is the perfect place to store drinks and a Tupperware on your desk at work. Still, it doesn't compare to the larger compressor models in terms of temperature control, energy consumption, or cooling abilities.

Temperature Control

One of the primary reasons to invest in a powered cooler is to maintain the temperature of your food while you're out exploring. All models advertise their ability to do this and make various claims about how cold they can get — but what are they really capable of? We subjected these coolers to intensive tests to see where each model excels or falls short.

To assess temperature control, we cranked each cooler to its coldest maintainable temperature. In another test, we measured how quickly they chill room temperature beverages to 35°F when filled to half capacity. During three separate trials, we used iButtons (small data-logging thermometers) to measure the accuracy of their display compared to the actual internal temperature.

Overall, the Costway 58 Quart was the best at controlling its temperature. Its minimum temperature achieved was -4.9°F. When set to 35°F, it maintained an actual internal temperature of 34.7°F--the most accurate of any cooler we tested. Its stellar temperature control and wide range of possible temperatures make this cooler a top choice for those who require excellent temperature consistency. We were blown away by how consistently cold this cooler got and feel confident using it to store meat, fish, dairy, and other perishable items.

The Dometic CFX5 45 is also great at controlling temperature. This impressive cooler performed well in every one of our temperature control tests. It reached an impressive minimum temperature of -2.2°F, and when set to 35°F, its actual internal temperature was 35.6°F.

The Engel MT45 Combination Platinum Series isn't far off either, hitting 3.2°F when set to its minimum temperature of 0°F. The difference between its set temperature and actual temperature reading was a mere 0.7°F, too.

The Renogy 53 Quart also performed well, with a minimum temperature of 2.3°F. The difference in temperature from 35°F was small, 34.7°F during this test. However, its average difference was 3.8°F off from the screen display to its internal temperature.

Close behind is the Euhomy 59 Quart, with a minimum temperature of 5.9°F. However, its set temperature was -4°F during this test, and its average temperature difference was 4.1°F.

We wouldn't hesitate to depend on any of these coolers to maintain their contents within 5 degrees of their set temperature.

Because thermoelectric coolers operate relative to ambient temperature, they cannot truly compare to the impressive chilling abilities of compressor-powered coolers, which work on the same principles as your home refrigerator. Many models claim to be able to cool up to 40ºF below ambient temperature. When temperatures are around 75ºF, a thermoelectric cooler with such a rating could cool to 35º, which is within USDA safe food parameters (below 40ºF is considered safe).

We tested this to see which models could reach this advertised temperature. None of the compressor coolers we tested, the Wagan 12V 24L, Igloo Iceless Versatemp 35 Quart, and Cooluli Classic 4L, ever reached 40°F in our 75°F lab.

The Cooluli Classic 4L came closest to reaching 35°F, hitting 37.4°F in our testing. This is technically up to par for keeping food safe, according to the USDA. We trust this little one to be good enough to keep snacks or cold drinks chilled, or food hot without cooking it.

All the directions for thermoelectric coolers state that it's essential to load these coolers with contents that are already at their desired temperature, as they are not capable of cooling room-temperature items.

Time to Cool

We packed the coolers to half capacity with room temperature cans and timed how long it took them to reach 40°F. We performed this test in one room set to 75F.

The Engel MT45 Combination Platinum Series and Dometic CFX5 45 score the best in this metric. The Engel took only 20 minutes to reach 38F, while the Dometic took 30 minutes to reach 37F. Both of these models are lightning fast when it comes to chilling their contents.

The Renogy 53 Quart took a mere 20 minutes to reach 38°F and only 30 minutes to drop to 35°F. Our main tester stated, “Wow, I'm impressed!” when timing the cooling capacity of this model. Also, this model can be set to two different temperatures. If you want to cool some items quickly and aren't concerned with others, you can take advantage of its dual-zone design.

The Anker Everfrost 40 was just behind, chilling to 39 degrees in 30 minutes. We trust this cooler to hit cold temperatures very quickly and reliably.

The BougeRV 23 Quart took longer to reach 40°F, but it still dipped below 40°F in 80 minutes. It took this smaller model between 130 and 150 minutes to reach 35F degrees. This cooler performed well for a budget-tiered model, cooling to the desired temperature range in just over an hour.

Energy Consumption

Controlling your food temperature is great, but not if it leaves you stranded with a drained car battery. Powered cooler manufacturers make various energy use claims, and we test them. We cycle through each setting on every model to measure the actual amount of power they pull. Compressor models operate similarly to your home fridge, cycling through cooling and steady phases. We measure power usage during all stages of this cycle, for both cooling and heating, of dual-temperature thermoelectric models. Additionally, several compressor coolers we tested feature low power or eco-energy modes, advertised to save you precious watts — so naturally, we test those too.

To test energy consumption, we monitored the DC power output of each model while it was plugged into identical batteries using energy meters. After running for 6 hours, we recorded the amount of watt-hours each cooler used. A lower total power draw resulted in a higher score.

The Anker Everfrost 40 is the clear winner in this category, with the lowest power draw of any model (compressor or thermoelectric) we tested. It only draws an average of 5.8 watts per hour. This model also comes with a built-in, detachable 299Wh battery, which can power the cooler /without/ being plugged in for 48 hours. It has three modes: Max (fastest cooling), Smart (balances cooling performance with battery efficiency based on internal/external temperatures, as well as battery level), and Eco (most energy-efficient and quietest operation).

The EcoFlow Glacier was almost as energy efficient as the Anker. It consistently drew 6.5 watts per hour, so you'll only need 312 watt-hours in 48 hours. It has low, medium, and high battery protection models. It also has “Eco” and “Max” modes, which prioritize conserving battery power or maximum cooling. You can also change these settings using the app. This cooler also accepts a removable 298-watt-hour battery, but it isn't included for the standard retail price, unlike the Anker.

The Costway 58 Quart is almost as energy efficient as the leading models. The Costway consumes an average of 6.7 watts per hour. So, it only requires 320 watt hours in 48 hours. It features “Eco” and “Max” power modes, along with a 3-level battery monitor. During testing, we noticed it often powers off whenever its at the set temperature, which saves power.

The Dometic CFX5 45 used only 6.8 watts per hour, which translates to 320 watt-hours in 48 hours. It also features a 3-stage dynamic battery protection system to prevent battery drainage, which can be set to low, medium, or high. You can conveniently change these battery protection settings on the cooler itself without needing an app. While this model doesn't have different power options, we never felt it needed them to conserve power.

The BougeRV 23 Quart draws an average of 8.3 watts per hour and requires 400 watt-hours of power for a weekend. It automatically turns off if the battery voltage drops low enough to drain your car battery, and doesn't draw any power when it's within the set temperature range. It has two energy modes: “Eco” and “Max.”

The thermoelectric models we tested were much less energy efficient than the compressor models mentioned above. All thermoelectric coolers continuously draw power while in operation. We don't recommend plugging any of these coolers into your car battery for long periods.

Portability

The general level of powered cooler portability depends significantly on its size. Because compressors are significantly heavier, these models tend to come in larger sizes and are intended primarily for stationary use, similar to refrigerators. Thermoelectric models are typically lighter and are often manufactured in smaller sizes, which facilitates their mobility. And, of course, anything is harder to move when it's tethered to an electrical outlet.

We considered the overall size, shape, and weight of each model to assess portability. We also examined other factors that make transportation easier or more challenging, such as handle design, wheel inclusion, and others. Unsurprisingly, the thermoelectric coolers score much higher in this metric; however, some larger compressor models proved more portable than we anticipated.

The most portable compressor cooler is the Euhomy 59 Quart. While it's not the smallest or lightest compressor model, its reasonable weight for the size and comfortable, practical handles make it easy to carry on your own. It weighs 28.7 pounds when empty.

The BougeRV 23 Quart only weighs 19.8 pounds. Its small size and light weight make it easy to move around, which we love. The handles feel a bit slippery, so it's not the most comfortable for carrying. However, most people could lift this on their own, even when it's loaded with goodies. We never felt strained while transporting this little one.

The Dometic CFX5 45 weighs 36.2 pounds. This is significantly heavier than the BougeRV but not much heavier than the Euhomy. This model's moderate weight and approachable dimensions give us confidence that most average-strength adults can lift and carry this cooler. However, when it's packed full of heavy items, it might take two people to haul it across the campground.

While the Renogy 53 Quart is one of the largest and most unwieldy coolers we lugged around, its wheels and tow handle make it easier to move on the ground. It weighs 40.6 pounds when empty, making it difficult to get in and out of your car. Once it's on the ground, the wheels and tow handle allow you to roll it easily.

The Anker Everfrost 40 also has wheels. However, these wheels feel necessary for moving this beast. It weighs a whopping 56.1 pounds, which is significantly heavier than the Renogy's 40.6 pounds. With the tow handle, moving this cooler on your own is possible, but it isn't as comfortable as the Renogy. If you remove the Anker's battery when moving it around, you'll save weight, but that's one more thing you'll have to come back for.

The lightest cooler is the Cooluli Classic 4L, which has a 4L body that weighs just 4 pounds. This tiny thermoelectric model is super light, so just about anyone (even a child) could lift and carry this cooler. It was the only model we could regularly carry with one hand. Besides a hollowed-out indentation on the top portion, it doesn't have designated handles. It also lacks any closure latches or locks, except for a magnet on the door, so it could potentially swing open in your car on a bumpy road. While this model scores highly in portability, it's not really designed to be frequently moved.

The Wagan 12V 24L, which also functions as a thermoelectric cooler, is highly portable. It only weighs 9.5 pounds, and it reminds us of carrying a pail because the handle swings up and over the top of the cooler. However, when you aren't holding the handle, it rests against the side of the cooler, which makes it less space efficient since it doesn't fit into a tightly packed trunk.

Ease of Use

We look at the interface, internal layout, quality of construction, and any included features that will make your life easier. We also examine how easily the lid opens and how well it organizes your food and drink inside.

The EcoFlow Glacier is the easiest to use overall. This cutting-edge cooler is as fancy as it gets. It features an incredibly clear interface with a large, bright, and clean display, as well as responsive buttons. It features an excellent phone app that is very easy to use, has a great range, and allows full control of the cooler from a distance. Additionally, it features a separate compartment on the lid for making ice.

EcoFlow offers a variety of nifty accessories, including detachable wheels, battery packs, and a solar panel, to pair with this cooler. However, you'll need to purchase them separately. And like this cooler, they aren't cheap. But if you have deep enough pockets, this cooler and any of its offered accessories will make keeping your goodies chilled a total breeze.

The Dometic CFX5 45 also stands out in this category for its incredible user-friendliness. It has an excellent interface with a bright, crisp screen. The tactile, functional buttons make it simple to adjust, and the “OK” button ensures straightforward settings confirmation. It has clearly labeled charging ports, a bright internal light, and a zippered charging cord pouch for staying organized. It also has an internal drain plug and an integrated bottle opener.

Dometic also offers a range of additional accessories for this cooler, including a tie-down kit for your truck bed, portable batteries, a fridge slide for your van build, and more. This rugged cooler impressed us with its sturdy, sleek design. The elegant matte plastic, aluminum handles, and fender frame-protected edges are easy on the eyes, but also proved to be as tough as they come, as no damage was incurred during testing. Finally, it comes with a 5-year warranty, which is by far the longest warranty of any electric cooler we've found.

The Anker Everfrost 40 is almost as user-friendly as the top scorers. The screen is bright with crisp text. We did find it hard to read in certain lighting conditions due to screen glare, but it didn't significantly impact our ability to adjust settings. The handy app functions like a remote control, allowing you to fine-tune any settings from afar. This model feels durable and capable. The included battery can be charged in four different ways. The cooler also comes with a bottle opener and wire storage dividers to organize your food. One of our favorite features is the two-handle that also functions as a built-in cutting board.

Also worth noting here is the Igloo Iceless Versatemp 35 Quart, which scored very poorly in this metric. This model is made from slippery plastic that feels cheap and easily shows unsightly stains and scratches. Our version arrived with cosmetic damage before we even unwrapped it from its protective plastic sleeve. We noted that the charging cable got very hot during use, which is a potential safety issue.

Noise

While none of the models we tested were loud enough to drown out the campfire conversation, it's still worth noting which ones were consistently the quietest. We took notes on sound quality, frequency of noise spikes, and general volume levels during critical moments, such as the maximum cooling cycle. We asked whether each would be obnoxious to sleep with in a confined space, such as a van or camper. We spent hours in a small room with every model, noting the general quality of their sound.

The quietest model is the Cooluli Classic 4L. It's so quiet that we regularly had to double-check that it was even powered on. It doesn't get louder when it's in heating mode either. This cooler is ideal for a quiet setting, such as at the office, where you don't want to disturb your cubicle neighbors, or for the nursery, where keeping fresh milk chilled is just as important as not disturbing the baby during naptime.

The Euhomy 59 Quart is also impressively quiet most of the time. We put our heads near the cooler while it was running and could only confirm that it was powered on by looking at the screen. When it's working hard to reach its coldest temperatures, it has a low, grumbly tone that is more subtle than other compressor coolers. If you're a light sleeper, this is an ideal option for your campervan or overlanding rig.

The Dometic CFX5 45 is also very quiet. It was hard to tell if it was even running when it wasn't actively cooling. And when it was cooling, the low, deep, and steady hum wasn't intrusive, even when our lead tester slept in tight quarters like her little van. When the Dometic is running in a room with other coolers, those other ones usually overpower its sound.

The EcoFlow Glacier is nearly as quiet as the Dometic. This impressively quiet

model maintains a consistent, deep, low-pitched tone. This sound is not disruptive and is easy to ignore, similar to a white noise machine.

On the other end of the spectrum, the Engel MT45 Combination Platinum Series is one of the noisiest coolers in the lineup. It creates a distinctive, high-pitched whirring sound whenever it kicks on. It's immediately noticeable, but the sound is not especially annoying. We got used to the noise after a while. That being said, if you're especially sensitive to noise, this powerhouse might not be the best option for you.

Conclusion

With numerous electric-powered coolers available today, it can be overwhelming to make an informed purchasing decision. If you're confused by all the technical jargon and the vast array of temperature and functionality claims, don't feel like you're the only one! Whether you're a vanlifer looking for a kitchen upgrade, a truck driver needing cold snacks for those long work shifts, or your commute to the grocery store takes hours, we hope this review simplifies the decision-making process and helps you find the best powered cooler for your needs and budget.

If you're planning on bringing a powered cooler on your next adventure, then you're going to want a power station and 100-watt solar panel for maximum off-grid power.