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Nov 02, 2024

The 11 Best Coolers of 2024 | Tested & Rated

We purchased 23 of the best coolers available today and took them to our lab for rigorous insulation testing. After melting hundreds of pounds of ice and recording the data, we subjected each model to

We purchased 23 of the best coolers available today and took them to our lab for rigorous insulation testing. After melting hundreds of pounds of ice and recording the data, we subjected each model to side-by-side real-world uses, from picnics in the park to beach BBQs.

The clear best option is the Yeti Roadie 48 due to an incredible 6.8 days of staying under 40 degrees as well as exceptional portability. That said, the Xspec 45 Towable is the clear winner for the budget-conscious. It stayed under 40 degrees for 5.9 days, which is more than enough for most people, is even more portable, and is about half the cost.

Check out our comparison of soft coolers for a more packable cooler. We've also tested the top powered coolers for those with access to a power source and who prefer an iceless approach.

What we liked most about this cooler was its outstanding ability to keep our food and drinks cold for a long time. Our food lasted 6.8 days and our cold beverages kept cold for 7.5 days. This knocks it out of the park compared to all of the other coolers. It lasted longer than any other cooler in our lineup, with the Orca 58 being a close second at 6.7 days under 40 degrees. And with so much space inside, you have the opportunity to keep meals and beverages fresh for the whole family.

We really recommend this cooler for anyone who is packing a lot of gear with them, wherever you're headed. Be it the beach or the forest, this cooler makes lugging your food and beverages super easy. Thanks to its square shape, you can stack your stuff right on top of it, like you'd toss your hand luggage on your rolling suitcase at the airport.

The Yeti Roadie 48 also locks to protect your food and drinks, especially if you're camping and don't want animals finding their way inside. Just be aware that you do have to install a separate part in order to lock this cooler. It's also worth noting that while Yeti advertises a capacity of 48 quarts, we only measured 45 quarts. That said, this cooler is still among the tallest on our list (and can fit 77 cans, as well as a bottle of wine or a two-liter bottle standing up). But if you don't feel like spending several hundred dollars on a cooler, the much cheaper Ultralight RTIC 52 and Coleman Portable Rolling 50 qt aren't far behind in terms of portability. However, they don't compare in other metrics.

Read more: Yeti Roadie 48 review

We appreciate that this cooler feels well-designed and that all of the details of its construction feel durable and high-quality. We especially liked the unique snap-tight latch design that's easily opened and closed with one hand. It's actually bigger than the manufacturer advertises, measuring in at 48.7 quarts, surpassing the claim of 45 quarts. Between the molded-in handles, the dangling straps, and the telescopic handle, there always seems to be a convenient way to move this cooler around where you need it. All of the different parts of the cooler that we interacted with during our testing felt comfortable and sturdy. We especially liked the soft-close lid feature. The lid has an integrated slow-close hinge that helps prevent accidental or unexpected lid closing. “This is handy!” Our tester, Gena Bradshaw, exclaimed.

If you are looking for a burly-wheeled cooler that's built tough, this model is an excellent choice. It offers great insulation performance and durability for a reasonable price. We like the value that the Xspec 45 offers users, and although it still isn't a cheap cooler, we feel it does a great job of justifying its cost.

When you consider the cost to value, this cooler is hard to beat. However, our biggest complaint is that it's quite heavy (34.9 pounds to be exact) and it might not be the best cooler for you if you aren't able to take advantage of its wheels for transport. If you're someone who seeks the top-tier of performance in the gear you collect, regardless of the cost, the Yeti Roadie 48 hits that mark. It builds off of what the Xspec 45 excels at but delivers an overall better performance and is also slightly lighter at 26.6 pounds.

Read more: Xspec 45 Towable review

What we especially loved about this cooler was its attention to detail and delightful features. It includes a handy exterior net pocket that runs along the length of the cooler, which is perfect for holding onto non-perishables or cutlery. And, unlike many pockets on coolers, this one is actually usable. We specifically used this pocket to hold our sandals as we carried the cooler across the beach. However, if you're interested in a cooler with lots of add-ons and can even be towed with a bike, the Rovr RollR 60 is one of our favorite feature-packed coolers.

For someone who is in the market for an all-around great cooler to have on hand for all purposes, this is a solid option. Plus, it comes in different colors, so you have fun options from which to choose. It's easy to pack and easy to drain, and it has tons of space inside to fit drinks and meals aplenty. Whether you're going fishing, picnicking, camping, or on a road trip, this cooler is an all-around ideal option to have on the ready.

That said, there are some slight drawbacks. The Orca has a unique take on the classic t-shaped latch design, as the “T” portion of the grip is a whale's tail. The latches are easy to grip but pose a challenge to open. We found opening and closing require two hands. The shape also makes it awkward to carry for long distances. Although you could carry it alone, it's best to get the help of a second pair of hands. If you're looking for an excellent and highly portable cooler, we recommend the Yeti Roadie 48. It has the best insulation of any model in our lineup, and its extendable handle and wheels make it super easy to move across all surfaces for long distances. That said, it comes at a steeper price, and we only recommend it to those willing to pay a premium.

Read more: Orca 58 Quart review

One thing we really like about this cooler is its fun little features, like the molded ruler on the lid and built-in compass and bottle openers. It also has molded tie-down slots and an air-release button. It pays attention to detail, too, with nonslip feet, a nonslip surface, and a drain chain (so you don't lose it). Plus, its rectangular shape makes it slightly easier to lift than some square alternatives.

This cooler would have scored even higher if it was Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee (IGBC)-rated for bears. But, for anyone who isn't going deep into the wilderness or worried about grizzlies, the Xspec is a solid option for a fraction of the price of many others on this list. Amongst our test metrics, it did the best with regards to insulation, but it's also durable, easy to use, and portable. But if you're going into bear country, there are plenty of other durable options to choose from. The Yeti Tundra 65 is one such cooler that is IGBC approved.

While Xspec 60qt offers a lot of bang for your buck, it's certainly not the best cooler on the market. There are a few finicky features, like the leaky drain plugs. If you're looking for an alternative that scored within the same range for each metric, the Orca 40qt doesn't insulate nearly as well, but it scored almost the same in regards to durability, just one point behind in portability and even better for ease of use and features.

Read more: Xspec 60qt review

The telescoping handle of this unit raises to a comfortable height that seems appropriate for most people and feels satisfactory to pull. The lid of the Coleman also features four 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 Coleman Portable 50 offers great portability and four days of insulation under 40 degrees Fahrenheit at a very accessible price for those who solely need a cooler to bring on their weekend getaway. For those looking for a cooler with only the essentials but still some convenient features and multiple methods to transport it, you can't really go wrong with this cooler. But, if you need a rugged unit that will last two days longer, we recommend the Yeti Roadie 60.

Because this cooler is so affordable, it does miss some key features that are nice to have and make for a much more user-friendly experience. The lid of this cooler does not feature any sort of seal or gasket, and this is likely a large contributor to its average insulation performance and can pose problems when moving it, as water can slosh around and leak significantly. Still, at this price point, it reigns as king. If you're not sold on the Coleman and willing to raise your budget for a better overall performing wheeled cooler that is still fairly affordable, the Xspec 45 Towable is a superior performing cooler that hits the mark in every measurable metric at a great value.

Read more: Coleman Portable Rolling 50 review

If you're looking for a cooler for daytime picnics, we highly recommend the RTIC due to its versatility alone. You don't need to pack a table to bring with you to the beach or park; you can simply eat right off the top of the cooler. The reason we wouldn't necessarily recommend this cooler for longer-term trips, however, is because of its mediocre insulation performance. Plus, it gets quite heavy when fully loaded (even though the cooler itself is quite light), but a day's worth of snacks and drinks is easier to carry.

The RTIC isn't as durable as other contenders. We should mention that nothing broke during testing, but the latches and hinges are a potential weak point. Also, we noticed it was a little leaky when sloshed around or tilted on its side, indicating the freezer-grade gasket lid doesn't actually seal shut. Lastly, the plastic handles lack cushioning. Though this may seem like a trivial detail, when packed with goodies, grasping onto hard plastic can be slightly painful, even if the cooler is a lighter option. All things considered, we were impressed with the RTIC Ultralight, with its lightweight construction, ease of use, and pleasant price. Another lightweight and inexpensive option is the Coleman 316 Series 52. Though its insulation performance isn't all that strong, it'll last for most overnighters or day trips.

Read more: RTIC Ultralight 52 Review

What is extra great about this model is that it's undeniably durable. We were able to subject it to wear and tear without showing any signs of weakness. We stood on it and even jumped on it, and it withstood the forces. It didn't leak throughout the durability tests despite being rolled around the room. And the nonslip surface of the lid is a noteworthy trait.

If you're in the market for a durable cooler with a thoughtful design, you can't go wrong with this model. Because of its durability, you can be sure to get a lot of use out of this cooler. But, for its high price, you'll want to make sure you actually plan on getting use out of it. We don't recommend this cooler for anyone who needs one for occasional use. It is an investment—and a smart one—but only if you use your cooler frequently.

As an all-around great cooler, the Yeti Roadie 60 makes it hard to find anything not to love. But, understandably, it may be beyond the budget of some consumers. Still, if you can shell out the cash, we think you'll be impressed with the Roadie 60. If you're set on a Yeti but don't want the wheels, the Yeti Tundra 65 is a classic worth reading about. Though its insulation isn't nearly as strong as the Roadie 60, it includes many of the same great features (minus the wheels, of course).

Read more: Yeti Roadie 60 review

If all of that is not enough, this cooler also comes standard with some of the most useful features we've seen, including a large, removable dry bin and a giant dry storage box that attaches to the lid and doubles the amount of stuff you can haul. You can put everything you need for the barbecue on this cooler and wheel it to the park with one hand.

If you're someone who bikes a lot, this may be the cooler for you. You can pick up the handy bike attachment and tow the RovR behind your bicycle. It costs extra, but we bought it, tried it, and now we can't imagine life without it. Even if you're not an avid biker, this cooler's pneumatic tires are ideal for anyone taking it to traverse tough terrain on foot or on two wheels.

The most crucial aspect of any wheeled cooler is how easily it gets you there, which the RovR does spectacularly. That said, we did find the latches a little stiff to manipulate but easy to learn with practice. After using it for years now, this rolling icebox is like nothing we've ever experienced before and is the only cooler our friends request to cart around. On the contrary, if you're not interested in towing a cooler behind your bike, we recommend checking out the Xspec 60qt. This impressive ice-box has almost the exact same insulation performance as the RollR, along with some fun extra features.

Read more: RovR RollR 60 review

Those looking for a sturdy, small form factor cooler that is tough and portable should seriously consider the Igloo BMX 25. It's available at a more accessible price point than most other coolers in the same category and provides solid value for what it costs.

While being comfortably portable and low priced, it does come with some downsides. The insulation performance is mediocre compared to other more costly coolers in the same form factor. Although Igloo added some stainless steel reinforcement to the BMX 25, it's not the most durable cooler we've had hands-on. If your budget allows, consider the Yeti Roadie 24 as it delivers better insulation performance and is even tougher than the Igloo.

Read more: Igloo BMX 25 review

We've tested soft coolers for many years, and the Engel HD30 continues to impress us. This is one of the best overall in our review of the best soft coolers. It offers some of the best insulation of any soft cooler, keeping its contents below 40º F for just over three days in our insulation testing. While many similar coolers have thick zippers that are a struggle to operate or very narrow openings that are difficult to navigate, this soft cooler is impressively easy to use. The corners unclip, allowing the top to open quite far for swift loading and locating items. And with a large (for a soft cooler) capacity of 48 cans, the Engel HD30 just might be enough to get you through a weekend of camping. Despite this oversized stature, it's more portable than we expected, with comfortable handles on each end that make carrying it that much easier. After years of regular use, this durably constructed soft-sided model looks and works just about the same as the day we first bought it.

Carrying the Engel HD30 can feel rather heavy when this cooler is packed to the brim, though we appreciate the padded shoulder strap. After a rainstorm, we also noticed the external pocket felt a little damp, although this complaint is minor. During our soak test, this cooler upheld well with minimal dampness in the interior compartments despite being submerged in water for hours. Even with these minimal gripes, this big cooler bag is our favorite thanks to the primo insulation, large capacity, and terrific features like a removable bottle opener and rounded handles. If you're not into all the bells and whistles, the AO Coolers is another excellent option that won't cost a fortune.

Read more: Engel HD30 review

Related: Best Soft Coolers of 2024

If you spend enough time car or van camping, you might consider upgrading from the old ice chest to a powered cooler that uses the energy from your vehicle or camper to keep things cold exactly like your fridge at home might. The best powered cooler we have tested is the seriously impressive Dometic CFX3 45. It won our Editors' Choice award in our review of the best powered coolers. It offers some of the coldest achievable temperatures and above-average insulation. It's built rugged and tough enough to withstand those questionably maintained roads you may find yourself driving down. And it is practically bursting at the seams with ridiculously convenient features and well-thought-out usability. Two internal baskets make loading and locating things that much easier, as you can lift out the basket to find what you need. An internal light assists in finding that last beer in the dark, and a tall interior easily accommodates your celebratory champagne. A free app on your phone lets you easily control and monitor your powered cooler without having to get out of your sleeping bag or camping chair.

Despite the lack of an energy-saving mode seen with many other powered coolers, the Dometic CFX3 does feature different levels of battery conservation that ensure it won't prevent you from starting your car in the morning. Even when cooling, it draws just 50.7 watts, which lands on the low end of the powered coolers we tested. Our main gripe, however, is that its cords are hardly over six feet long, so you can't get very far from an outlet. Furthermore, the price is very steep. That said, if you're ready to take the plunge into the iceless world of powered coolers, the Dometic is consistently the best-performing model we've tested. If you value energy efficiency over longevity and cooling power, the Costway 54 is a budget-friendly cooler worthy of consideration.

Read more: Dometic CFX3 45 review

This review represents over 600 combined hours spent using, abusing, and meticulously testing over 40 different ice chests since 2016 — not including the time spent researching hundreds of new and promising models to find the ones worthy of inclusion. We ran and re-ran insulation tests under controlled but harsh laboratory conditions. We dragged our test subjects through the gravel, sand, mud, and grass while road-tripping, tailgating, camping, and hanging out on the beach. We asked our friends and family, who span three generations, to help us dive into these coolers (sometimes literally) and identify the top performers. From being thrown into vehicles, dropped onto concrete from waist height, jumped on by a 200 lb tester, submerged in water, dragged across hot surfaces, yanked on, jerked around, and otherwise abused, these chests have seen it all.

Learn more about our detailed side-by-side testing in our how we test article.

This review was led by Senior Review Editor Maggie Nichols. Maggie has been playing and guiding in the outdoors for over fifteen years, from backpacking the Tahoe Rim Trail to kayaking the Caribbean. She is an avid camper and even lived in her teardrop trailer for several seasons. She spent eight years at Iowa State University, completing two science degrees and teaching numerous college science courses — so she has a comprehensive understanding of the importance of rigorous and scientific testing processes. Testing was led by Senior Research Analyst Genaveve Bradshaw. Genaveve is an expert at applying the most scientific approach possible to test and rate products. Among other tests she designed and conducted for this review, Gena rigged up an impressive array of data-logging Thermochrons for our carefully controlled multi-day cooler insulation testing.

Our team includes also includes Senior Review Editor Rebecca Glades. Throughout her time earning multiple science degrees, she has been trained in taking a non-biased approach to research. This, along with her never-ending love for the outdoors, gives her the necessary skills to create honest and trustworthy gear reviews.

The last member of our team on this review is Kolby Anderson. Kolby has spent much of his career in the construction industry, often grinding days away in triple-digit heat where a poor-performing cooler can really ruin your day. His life and career path has involved becoming skilled in various fields, where his eagerness for knowledge and obsession with details have made him a confident problem solver and an ever-curious, thorough review editor.

This team of dedicated testers and reviewers understands the power of a great cooler's value, whether for off-grid living, celebratory summit beers, road trips, or backyard barbecues.

The market for ice chests continues to grow, resulting in some extremely close competition and hard-fought rivalries. To help you find the right model, we tease apart performance differences between contenders, implementing specific tests spanning five exhaustive, mutually exclusive metrics. We test the insulation performance, durability, ease of use, portability, and features of every single model. As some performance aspects are more important than others, we weigh each metric accordingly. Below, we discuss our test results and which models stand out in each area.

Though our scoring system of each contender's performance does not include the cost of the unit, we recognize that this is a crucial aspect influencing the decision of which one to purchase. This particular market includes a huge range of prices that make one wonder how a plastic ice box could be worth that much money. In some cases, that extra cash does bring excellent insulation performance, greater utility, and convenience. In other cases, you can spend far less without a substantial drop in overall performance. It's also helpful to consider how often you find yourself needing the cooling and insulating services these ice chests provide and how burly and rugged you need your gear to be.

When it comes to high durability, strong insulation, and usability, the Xspec 60qt is a fantastic example of a high-value item. For under $300, this model offers great features and scored well across the board. The biggest drawback we had with this cooler was a finicky drain plug, but that didn't take a toll on us being able to load it up and carry it with ease or on its insulation—which are more important to most cooler users.

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 45qt 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 portable.

The Ultralight 52 is another good example — this lower-priced (yet over-performing) model has been handily getting the job done for weekends full of summer fun, all while being kind to the wallet. If you don't need such a beefy box or a lengthy time frame for storing delicate food items like raw meat, the Coleman 316 is another good choice, saving you both money and weight. On the other hand, if you're the type of explorer heading off the grid for extended periods and pushing your gear to the limits, the extra cash you'll drop on the Orca 58 is well worth the investment. This bear-resistant box provides top-notch insulation and superb usability, making it our team's go-to companion for longer trips.

The most important metric for most of us is how well an ice chest keeps food cold and fresh. This metric is also the source of many extraordinary claims from manufacturers. From models with “5-Day” in the name to stickers boasting up to 16 days of ice retention, it seems that just about every product out there will knock your socks off. That is until you read the fine print, which typically includes a litany of stipulations such as the entire chest has to be pre-chilled (walk-in freezer, anyone?), its contents must also be pre-chilled or even frozen (no more buying drinks straight off the shelf and tossing them in the cooler), you can only open it once a day when it's cool (what about lunch?), or you'll need twice as much ice as food. While all these things will help extend the life of your ice and, therefore, the freshness of your food, it's unlikely that every consumer will follow these stipulations for each use. So we tested these coolers the way that we, and most consumers, would use them. We bought some ice, filled each model half full, and put in a small device that measures ambient temperature. Then we simulated a hot summer trip by sealing them in a temperature-controlled room for over a week while tracking and recording each unit's internal temperature.

There are two critical temperature thresholds we made a note of — 40 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Based on FDA regulations, 40 degrees is the maximum acceptable temperature recommended to ensure food safety, as it minimizes the growth of pathogenic bacteria. Put simply, keeping refrigerated food items below 40 degrees greatly reduces the chance of food spoiling and making you sick.

The 50-degree threshold we highlight represents the average maximum ideal temperature to serve beer. The American Homebrewers Association breaks down the optimal serving temperature range for different types of beer, which we based this threshold on. We chose 50 degrees in part as an average maximum ideal beverage serving temperature and also to easily see the rate at which each cooler gains degrees as its ice melts within by comparing how much time there is between when each model crosses the 40 and 50-degree lines.

The Yeti Roadie 48 takes the lead in our insulation tests with temperatures lasting below 40 degrees for 6.7 days. Additionally, it lasted below 50 degrees for 7.5 days. To put it simply, this cooler knocked all of the others out of the park in regard to insulation.

Another great performer in this metric is Orca 58, which lasted 6.7 and 7.3 under 40 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit, respectively. The Yeti Roadie 60 also lasted 6.3 and 6.9 days, respectively. Among the small-capacity coolers, the Orca 40 did the best, with temperatures lasting 5 and 5.5 days. Though these won't last you an entire week in the desert (unless you chill the cooler and its contents beforehand then pack it with mostly ice), it is an excellent option for weekend trips or day excursions. Both models are rotomolded with freezer-style gaskets designed to keep cold air in and hot air out.

We also feel the 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 degrees and 6.4 days below 50 degrees.

Of our test subjects with a manufacturer's claim for ice retention attached to them, not a single one lived up to it in our tests. As the market continues to grow, many manufacturers have stopped including specific number-of-day claims or have started adding asterisks to those claims that require limiting conditions. However, while the results from our insulation testing are, in many cases, far below some of the manufacturer's claims, we went out of our way to push these competitors to their limits. There are many tips and tricks that can help you get even more from your ice, such as pre-chilling the cooler, keeping it in the shade, and packing a 2:1 ice to contents ratio.

The final insulation score combines the results from our granular data gathered by the iButton sensors used in our testing and 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 often still have relevant use cases in our world and oftentimes include specific accessories or features that might be more important than just pure insulation performance.

Knowing your investment will last through years and years of adventures is important for any piece of gear you own, and these products are no exception. Though we didn't have ten years to spend testing each model, we spent months subjecting them to prolonged use and a fair amount of abuse to see how they stood up to the pressure. We overextended hinges, jumped on lids, yanked on latches and handles, and dropped full chests from a carrying height. We set accident-prone friends, young children, and hefty humans loose on them to see what they're made of by pushing them in ways more typically spread across many years of use. We filled each model with water to see how well their seals worked (or if they worked at all). Several of our top-performing contestants have been in regular use for several years now, and each season we update their durability and performance information, documenting how they change over time.

Several of the models we tested have IGBC certification, meaning a certification from the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee, which verifies that the product in question has been tested by said committee and meets minimum standards for design and structural standards that are considered “bear-resistant” by a team of grizzly bear experts. The IGBC specifically states that this does not mean the product in question can't be opened or destroyed by a bear, nor does it mean the product is leakproof. That said, even the minimum construction standards required to deter a hungry 10 foot long, 900 lb grizzly lend a lot of credibility to the durability of a product. Models we reviewed that are IGBC certified include the Yeti Tundra 65, Engel 65, and RovR RollR 60. These products proved to be very durable, despite the fact our team was unable to find a grizzly bear willing to test each of them rigorously.

Additionally, several other aspects add to each one's overall durability beyond just a sturdy hinge and a set of bearproof locks. The latches and handles don't factor into an IGBC rating, as they are irrelevant to bear safety but pertinent to any model's longevity. Rubber T-grip latches are popular as a durable, easy-to-use solution for keeping your ice chest closed. The Yeti Tundra 65's latches performed the best in our durability testing, with a combination of thickness and sturdiness mixed with the right amount of flexibility to stay tightly in place when needed and not give away to the incessant yanking of a bored four-year-old. Even after several years of use, the Tundra 65's latches are virtually the same as the first day we bought the cooler. If you prefer thicker, sturdier latches and don't mind the extra muscling required to operate, the Orca 58 and 40 both have brawny rubber T-grips (in the shape of Orca tails) that practically exude security and confidence.

The RTIC models have visually similar rubber latches that are much more flexible. As such, they are easy to use, lacking the stiff stubbornness of many other latches. Still, more flexible rubber might have a shorter lifespan than denser rubber, though we haven't had an issue after using these products. The Igloo BMX also has T-grip latches with slightly different shapes and thicknesses that both get the job done just fine.

The 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 the Xspec rubber sections have tightened up over time. This makes them just as secure as ever but requires slightly more force to operate. The Roadie 24 has plastic and rubber latches similar to the Xspec 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, Tundra 65, Xspec 60, Orca 58 and 40, and the RTIC all follow this model. The Xspec 45qt Towable takes it a step further by including molded-in handles and slung handles, as well as 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 away from the cooler, so your hands don't hit the cooler body when carrying it. The Yeti Tundra Haul also has comfortable handles with functional and sturdy built-in handles on the body. By contrast, we weren't thrilled with the Coleman Portable Rolling 50 qt, which isn't adjustable, or the slippery plastic handles on the Igloo Polar 120.

There's something agreeable about an ice box that's not only well-designed and durably built but also clearly shows attention to detail at every turn. The Orca 58 and 40 are those coolers. Many competitors have visible screws holding on the latches or hinges, rope ends and knots visible, or even tiny plastic ridges left over on edges from the manufacturing process. Yet, every unit we've tested from Orca appears clean and polished. These details perhaps don't matter in the long run from a durability standpoint but go a long way toward making your expensive cooler look as impressive as its price tag and performance suggest.

Our final chart shows a summarized comparison of all of the different aspects of our durability testing and research. Everything from standing on them, yanking on the handles, and tossing them around full of water is taken into consideration 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 is a critical factor in your overall happiness with any given product. We tested each model's ease of use by, well, using them. A lot. We gauged how easy each cooler was to open and close — whether or not the lid fully shut after closing, latch maneuverability, ease of loading, capacity, and if it included any convenient features like dry bins.

We gauged the ease of grabbing the handles without looking and noted whether they required extra steps to slide them out into place or push them back down out of the way. We evaluated each drain (if there was one) to see how thorough a job it does on its own and if the cooler needed to be shaken out afterward. We also looked at how easy it was to insert and remove the plug. And for wheeled models, of course, we considered how that pair of spinning discs affects the chest's usage when you're not actively pulling it around.

The Xspec and Roadie models are notable for innovative and fairly effortless latch experiences. They combine a rubber latch for tightness and security with a plastic locking mechanism that makes them a breeze to use and requires much less brute strength than any of the 100% rubber latches demand. Meanwhile, the Yeti Roadie 48 boasts two “smart design” latches so you can open it with one hand (and we can confirm that it's doable!). The Yeti Tundra Haul two T-shaped latches; however, they are similar to the latches on the standard Yeti Tundra cooler and will require two hands for most people.

As far as drains go, several products have dual-function drains, meaning there's a hole through the shaft of the drain plug that lets water run out without having to remove the entire drain cap. Of course, if you want a faster flow, a total plug removal is advised, but don't misplace that cap, as most models we tested don't come with a tether to keep it attached to the body of the box. The RTIC models, Engel, Orca, Xspec's, and RovR all have this handy dual drain hole feature. It is not too common in the smaller models, but the RTIC 20 and RTIC 45 Ultra-Tough both 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 of the contenders we tested also have a sloping channel behind the drain to help gravity pull water out. Still, several have unfortunately paired this with a large lip or other obstruction that then stops your drainage progress before it's 100% complete. Models that we found the easiest and most thorough to drain include the RTIC 48 Ultra-Tough, RTIC Ultralight, Xspec, Orca(s), and Tundra(s), which all feature either a tiny or sloped lip to make emptying your meltwater a breeze.

We also considered the overall shape and size of each competitor as part of its usability score. Models featuring a compact, packable shape and handles that hide away easily are easier to pack into a vehicle for your next adventure. On the other hand, those products with large handles and awkward shapes can be difficult to Tetris into the back of the minivan. Of course, the internal dimensions and capacity also make a big difference in what you can bring with you in your icebox and how many extra bags and boxes you'll need to bring along. And the proportion of these dimensions to one another also makes a big difference. A low and long model is easy to find things in but harder for one person to carry.

On the flip side, a taller and narrower cooler is easier to carry but makes it harder to reach items that have wormed their way to the bottom. Both Xspec models 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. The Xspec 60qt is for those seeking a traditional cooler with ample space, and the Xspec 45qt 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 and RovR RollR are two more of our favorites among the crowd for their ease of use. The RovR has a sizable dry bin and tall interior with nearly vertical walls. We found this cooler easy to pack and keep organized. This feat is made even more impressive by all the bouncing you'll be doing with the enormous wheels over debris on your way to the party. It also boasts one of the tallest internal heights of any cooler we tested, so you can rest assured that your chilled Pinot Grigio will stay frosty all day. (However, the tallest coolers we tested were the Yeti Roadie 60 and Yeti Roadie 48.) The RTIC offers a similarly simple interior that's spacious enough to bring a ton of food with you on your hunting trip or camping adventure. Its dual drains make cleaning it a breeze, and the flexibility of this model's rubber latches means it's easier to open and close with a single hand than other rubber-latched models.

The Ninja FrostVault 50 is quite 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 weren't able to 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.

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. How many cans fit inside, how comfortable the different carry handles are, and how convenient they are to load and store are all taken into consideration. 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 seems to correlate with greater ease of use, reinforcing the adage “you get what you pay for.”

At first glance, the matter of portability seems obvious: wheels? Portable. Small size? Portable. Large capacity? Not so portable. And while in general this is true, it's not the whole story. We considered these self-evident factors in our testing and looked at them in more detail. We challenged every pair of wheels to roll not only over smooth, paved driveways but also the soft sand at the beach, chunky construction debris, uneven forest floors, and lumpy uncut grass. We scrutinized every handle's design, shape, location, and comfort while carrying a full load. And we considered not just the sheer weight of each chest, but what that weight gets you in terms of capacity — as in how worth it are the extra pounds? We filled them up and loaded them in and out of cars, slogged across beaches, and traipsed through neighborhoods to see which models bashed against our knees, nipped at the backs of our heels, or formed blisters on our palms.

The Yeti Roadie 48 was the easiest cooler to transport, as it rolls like a luxury suitcase, and you can securely stack other items on top of it. The Xspec 45qt Towable and the Yeti Roadie 60 also impressed us, nipping at the heels of the Yeti 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 Yeti Roadie 48. The Xspec 45 delivers a comfortable rolling experience. Although it doesn't create a tsunami like the Coleman, our tester noted, “It couldn't be considered leakproof, but I would feel ok wheeling it around with water in it without causing a huge mess.”

Much to no one's surprise, personal cool-boxes like RTIC 20, Yeti Roadie, Engel Drybox, and Igloo BMX are much more portable than larger models. A combination of low weight, small size, and functional carrying handles help make this possible. However, small size isn't the only aspect that affects portability performance. Among these smaller coolers, the Igloo BMX has a much broader and more comfortable handle and a smoother overall design, which makes carrying this product full of heavy glass bottles a much more pleasant experience. It also weighs less by a significant margin, which adds to its portability. The Roadie 24 has a flexible webbing strap that more comfortably facilitates an over-the-forearm carry. It also has a pair of indented handles hiding underneath both sides of the top for two-handed carry. The Engel 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 has found the perfect balance between size and weight. Its rope straps extend far above the cooler, making it possible to carry it without slamming your hands against the frame. Built into the frame are an extra set of handles. These were particularly useful for loading onto the counter or into the car. The Coleman Portable Rolling 50 qt, however, takes the cake as it is super light at 12.5 pounds (at the lower end of the list) with great capacity (at the higher end of the list).

Wheeled coolers may appear astoundingly portable, but we found that their actual usefulness in this metric is wildly dependent on their wheel design and clearance. We've tested several rolling models over the years. While the Yeti Roadie 48 is our top-recommended wheeled cooler, the RovR is the only one with actual rubber tires filled with air (aka pneumatic tires), the same as a vehicle or bicycle. While competitors may point to this as a downside (more maintenance, the potential for flats, etc.), it makes for a vastly better pulling system. The juddering of pulling hard-wheeled models over smooth surfaces, like city sidewalks, can quickly leave blisters on your hands from the vibration of the plastic wheels (this really happened to a tester). But pulling the RovR with its air-filled wheels lets you glide over imperfections in the ground and keeps your hands happy.

Equally as important, the RovR's handle swings out far enough from the chest's body to avoid painful heel smashing. And with motocross-style rubber handles located on the edges of the sides of the wide trolley handle, it's clear that this product is designed with the user in mind. Lastly, the bike attachment accessory is seriously impressive. Initially skeptical, we now use it all the time. Attachment is easy, and the flexible, pivoting arm allows for freedom of bike movement and no loss of turning radius or steering ability. We are so genuinely impressed by this rolling icebox's portability that we hardly even notice or mind its heavier initial weight.

As for large, non-wheeled models, the Engel and Tundra 65 are both relatively portable — their combined overall shapes and mid-50-quart capacities make finding what you're looking for easier. They're big enough to bring everything you need without being so big that they require two people to lift them out of the car. The slightly larger Xspec has a similar ratio of overall dimensions (shorter length, taller height — but not so much that it's hard to find that last beer under all the ice), and it's reasonably easy for a solo person to carry a short distance.

Mid-sized models offer a middle ground between the many large options that can often be overkill for a simple picnic or road trip but offer more storage space than the small personal chests. The Orca 40 is one of our favorite medium-capacity contenders. It fits a full 40 quarts of contents and whatever you can cram into the large external storage pocket covering the back of the box. Its taller, narrower shape is also more comfortable for a single person to carry from the car to the beach.

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 there are some that are quite lightweight with well-designed handles that are still quite portable in many circumstances.

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

The RovR RollR, Yeti Roadie 60, and Yeti Tundra 65 all come with practical interior dry storage options, which are great for setting aside some clean ice for drinks or keeping sensitive food out of ice water. The Yeti models all feature a simple basket that sits across the top of the opening. The Yeti Roadie 48, for example, comes with one dry goods basket. The 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's dry storage goes above and beyond since it has a large dry bin that extends to the bottom of the interior. It also attaches to the side of the interior with a simple hand screw, which means it won't move during transit like most other baskets.

Meanwhile, the Coleman Portable Rolling 50 has four molded-in cup holders in the lid to keep your drinks sturdy at the beach or campground. The RTIC 45 Ultra-Tough has molded tie-down slots, although the straps are sold separately. The Xspec 45 Towable checks a lot of 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 of the options we tested have this feature, including the Xspec and Igloo Polar 120. Still, others have specific slots to tie them down in your boat, backseat, or truck bed.

The RovR RollR does a bang-up job of living up to its claim as being “the most feature-packed 60-quart cooler ever.” Beyond the ultra-useful internal dry bin, this compact roller features a 60-quart external dry bin that attaches right to the top of the lid, doubling the number of things you can cart. When it's time for storage, the dry bin folds flat and can be easily and securely stored on top of the lid. We found these two features to be very handy in countless situations. And if you are so inclined to make additional purchases, the RovR can be mounted to the back of your bicycle like a tiny, ice-filled wagon.

Some coolers are quite 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 that include some accessories and have a variety of color options available will score higher. Coolers with little to no included or additional purchasable accessories scored lower. In our testing, we found that most of the more well-built coolers included thoughtful accessories and design features, while the budget offerings come with little to no accessories and often have none available for later purchase.

Cooler designs have changed quite a bit over the years, and they've also become quite a bit more expensive with the introduction of rotomolded designs. There are several types to choose from (soft coolers, powered coolers, etc), which we outline in greater detail in our cooler buying advice guide. Our review generally focuses on hard-sided ice chests, designed to keep your perishables cold for longer periods.

Many hard-sided coolers are constructed from plastic that sandwiches a layer of insulating foam. Rotomolded coolers, like the types the Yeti brand is famed for, use a heat-softened plastic that molds to the hard foam interior, creating a single fused piece of plastic that boosts insulating properties, effectively sealing cool air in and warm air out. The type of seal and locking mechanism also inform how well a cooler keeps your perishables at a safe temperature. Rubber gaskets, similar to what your refrigerator uses, help seal in the cold. For longer trips, you'll want a cooler that holds a steady, cool temperature for longer. See our buying advice article for advice on maximizing your insulation efficiency.

Ideally, your cooler should be easy to use. Are there latches, and are they easy to operate? Does the cooler stay closed when overstuffed, or when driving down a bumpy road? We like coolers with well-placed drains with tethered plugs that can't fall off or be lost. Portability is another important factor — is the cooler easy to transport? Some models have wheels, and most have handles on either side. Some are quite heavy, and easier for two people to lift when fully loaded. We also appreciate models with extra features, like an interior basket so that certain food items stay dry and don't get buried in the ice. Some models have additional dry storage on the outside, cupholders on top, and even attached bottle openers. Decide what features are important to you when making your selection.