Best Electric Cooler [2019]

The Knox Electric Cooler and Warmer is the perfect choice for anyone needing to keep food and drinks cold or warm at get-togethers, for long trips, or for large family outings. You get plenty of room, the ability to use both AC and DC power sources, and wheels that make transporting this cooler much more accessible.

The Black & Decker TC212B is a smaller, lighter version of the electric cooler/warmer. Small enough to fit between your front seats, the Black & Decker holds just enough to satisfy a few people on long car rides or during shorter outings, and its low price but dependable construction makes it perfect for those who do not need a larger cooler.

While the high price tag of the Dometic CFX 40W may be hard to swallow for the occasional traveler, those living off-grid and avid outdoors people will appreciate the ability of this cooler to maintain extremely low temperatures consistently. The compressor drive of this electric cooler is exceptionally efficient, and the bonus features make it a dream to use.

How We Picked

Electric coolers are insulated boxes, similar to a traditional cooler. Instead of using ice to cool your food, though, electric coolers use a thermoelectric device whose purpose is to move heat out of the cooler. Electricity is used to transfer heat from one side of a semiconductor Peltier pad to the other. In most cases, the same pad can be reversed using current to create a warming effect inside of the cooler.

Electric coolers allow you to keep foods and beverages cool without the need for ice. It can feel a little overwhelming when you start to look at the options and features available today, which is why we have tried to simplify your selection process by narrowing the field down to only the best. When selecting our top ten best electric coolers, we considered storage capacity, the versatility of the power source, how cool the interior temperature stayed, the size and weight of the cooler, and any available features it might have to make it more appealing.

What we came up with was a diverse list of coolers to meet just about everyone’s needs and budget. We have professional-grade coolers for the rugged outdoors people, small and lightweight coolers for the occasional traveler, and something for everyone in between. Whether you need to store dozens of cans, vials of medicine, lunch on the go, or weeks’ worth of camping provisions, there is an electric cooler to suit your mood.

We combed through online reviews, customer ratings, industry tests, and product specifications to create our list, which we feel confident represents the best of the best for your electric cooler needs. Next, we present the list of the Top Ten Best Electric Coolers for 2019.

Knox Electric Cooler and Warmer

Specs:

• Capable of keeping food hot or cold
• Equipped with both AC and DC power cords
• Holds 48 quarts

The Knox Electric Cooler and Warmer earned our top spot because it was the best all-around cooler that is also offered at a reasonable price.

For a mid-level budget, you get a large capacity electric cooler that not only keeps food and drinks cold down to 40°F but can even warm your food to 130°F. The large capacity makes it perfect for families, extended camping trips, or large outdoor gatherings.

This cooler comes standard with two built-in power cords. One fits your standard home outlet while the other uses your car’s DC battery power. Both are easily tucked away in a storage compartment when not in use. That means you can use this electric cooler and warmer wherever you are. The Knox Electric Cooler and Warmer is reasonably priced, performs well in all capacities, and makes a great addition to any function.

What We Like

While this cooler is enormous, holding up to 60 cans of soda or six 2-liter bottles, the removable divider makes it easy to keep things organized inside. Because you do not need to leave room for ice or cold packs, you can fit a lot into this cooler! While the large size does mean this cooler can get heavy when fully loaded, you won’t need to worry about the weight. It also comes with wheels and a convenient folding handle you can use to maneuver it wherever you need to go.

The warmer function is also very helpful. If you are attending a potluck dinner, hosting an outdoor event, or tailgating for hours before the big game, you will appreciate being able to keep your food warm without burners, Sterno, or hotplates. It is great for cold-weather functions or for serving warm drinks.

Overall

If you are looking for a big cooler with the ability to warm and cool, then Knox is the clear winner. You can fit a lot into this electric cooler, making it great for larger get-togethers. It will even keep your food warm, which is a bonus during colder temps. The Knox Electric Cooler and Warmer is offered at an excellent price for a reliable product.

Coleman 40-Quart Powerchill Thermoelectric Cooler

Specs:

• Capable of keeping food hot or cold
• Works on 12V DC power
• Holds 40 quarts

The Coleman 40-quart Powerchill cooler and warmer will keep your beverages and food at optimal temperatures no matter where you are.

This electric cooler runs solely off 12-volt DC power, which makes it a fantastic addition to your next camping, boating, or hunting trip. It has sufficient capacity to store up to 44 cans, making it the perfect size for families or small groups spending time outdoors.

The Coleman Powerchill, like most thermoelectric coolers, can only cool to about 40°F cooler than the ambient temperature. That means that what’s inside will be a nice 35°F on a mild day but may only cool to around 60°F on a hot one. Keeping this cooler in the shade helps a lot, as does ensure that there is plenty of ventilation space around the fan.

 

If you are taking a road trip or traveling on your boat or in your RV, the Coleman 40-quart Powerchill makes an excellent addition to your provisions. Frozen foods placed in this cooler will stay so for several days, and when you start with colder items inside and are careful not to open the lid too much, your refreshments will stay plenty cold for your outing.

What We Like

The Powerchill can be situated so that it opens either horizontally, like a traditional cooler, or vertically, like a refrigerator. It also can be opened from either the right or left side! This makes placing it in the car or truck a little easier because you have more options. The cooler comes with a removable dividing shelf, which allows you to keep everything organized and separated, too.

This cooler comes with an 8-foot power cord, which is great for keeping it plugged in during travel. Empty, this cooler only weighs 18 pounds, so it is lightweight enough to be moved easily by one person (unless it is packed with heavy bottles or cans). The carrying handles make it easy to move.

Overall

Coleman is a trusted maker of ice chests and coolers, and the 40-Quart Powerchill is an excellent addition to their line. This electric cooler is great for family outings, long trips, or RV vacations, and you get plenty of room to keep your snacks and drinks cool. The easy-to-use reversible door makes it simple to set up in just about any space, too.

Dometic CFX 40W Cooler, Fridge Freezer

Specs:

• Capable of keeping food cold or frozen up to -7°F
• Can be powered by either AC or DC sources
• Holds 40 quarts

Unlike the above thermoelectric coolers, Dometic’s line of electric coolers uses a compressor-driven system, which can reach lower temperatures and maintain a consistent level inside the unit.

The Dometic CFX 40W is like a mini-refrigerator in the shape of a cooler. Many excellent features will justify its premium price, not the least of which is that the Dometic line can keep frozen foods solid for extended periods, unlike most thermoelectric models.

It is easy to keep the interior of your Dometic cooler organized with the included removable wire baskets. You even get an interior LED light to help you find what you need quickly at night. For those who need to chill food quickly, like hunters and fishermen, the Dometic CFX 40W has a deep-freeze function, which quickly drops the temperature to its lowest setting, allowing you to freeze food fast.

What We Like

The CFX line of Dometic coolers comes equipped with several awesome features. First, you can control and adjust the temperature of your electric cooler via mobile app or using the digital display. This lets you maintain a constant temperature to +- 2°F, which is unprecedented control for an electric cooler.

The CFX 40W also includes a 3-stage battery protection system that prevents your cooler from draining your car, boat, or RV battery. This system also improves your car’s battery performance. And because the compressor has extremely low power consumption, you can safely use this cooler in off-grid situations for extended periods, including where solar panels are used to charge batteries.

Overall

Dometic has been making off-grid refrigeration products for 100 years, and they construct products that are built to last. While the high price of this cooler may cause some to shy away, those who will use this type of product regularly will appreciate its durability and quality materials. This large cooler offers plenty of room and can keep foods frozen for extended periods, making it a winner for those with specific needs.

Wagan EL6224 Electric Car Cooler and Warmer

Specs:

• Capable of keeping food hot or cold
• Can be powered by either AC or DC sources
• Holds 25 quarts

The Wagan EL6224 is a perfect mid-range electric cooler to meet most needs.

The combination cooler/heater can reach temperatures down to 36°F (30°F below ambient temperature) and as warm as 140°F. While not the biggest cooler on the market, the EL6224 still holds about 27 cans or four 2-liter bottles, which is plenty of room for most outings or needs. This cooler is perfect for road trips with the family or a day at the beach or lake.

You can easily switch between heating and cooling with this model, and the indicator light clearly shows which mode is in use. Weighing just under 10 pounds, this electric cooler is easy to carry with its molded plastic handle.

The small size makes it easy to transport in your car, and you will love that it can ride comfortably in the seat or on the floor next to you for easy access.

What We Like

The Wagan EL6224 comes with an AC power adapter, which means you can use this cooler at home or in the office, too. Nursing mothers and anyone taking medications that require refrigeration will appreciate this feature. The long power cord makes it easy to plug in while in the back seat, even if your only 12V outlet is in the front.

The small but useful space inside this electric cooler is perfect for shorter trips with the family, longer drives for one, and transporting food home from the grocery. This cooler is easy to use, carry, and keep clean. Wagan offers a 2-year warranty to protect your investment, too.

Overall

The Wagan EL6224 is an affordable and powerful option in a small package. You get plenty of cooling and warming power in just enough space for most needs, making this compact cooler the perfect size for most people. It is easy to carry and is made from quality materials.

Black & Decker TC212B Portable Travel Cooler/Warmer

Specs:

• Capable of keeping food hot or cold
• Works on 12V DC power
• Holds 9 quarts

The Black & Decker TC212B is a compact mini cooler that fits perfectly between your seats, keeping your food and drinks warm or cold for the duration of your trip.

This small but mighty electric cooler earned our best budget pick for a variety of reasons beyond its lower price tag.

This model holds up to 12 cans and is the perfect accompaniment to a road trip, a tailgate party, or a day on your boat.

You can switch from cooling up to 40°F below ambient temperature to warming your food to 120°F with the flip of a switch, and the DC power cord makes this model best for use in your car, boat, or RV.

What We Like

Because of its small size, the Black & Decker TC212B cools down or heats up very quickly. And its modest price tag makes it more appealing than other models for those who only plan to use their electric cooler occasionally. One excellent feature of the TC212B is that it automatically shuts off when it detects low voltage from your battery, which can help reduce the likelihood of a drained battery.

The top of the Black & Decker cooler has dual cup holders, and it is easy to carry with the included shoulder strap. You can carry non-perishable items in the zippered side pouch, and it is so small, it rests comfortably just about anywhere you want to use it, including on the seat, between seats, on the tailgate or hatch, or in the floorboard.

Overall

Black & Decker is a known brand which many people trust. This small, compact electric cooler is perfect when you only have a few things to keep cool or warm, and with battery protection, you will not end up stranded. For a small but reliable electric cooler/warmer, you can’t go wrong with the TC212B.

Cooluli Mini Fridge Electric Cooler and Warmer

Specs:

• Capable of keeping food hot or cold
• Can be powered by either AC or DC plus USB sources
• Holds 4 quarts

Unlike other models, which open from the top like a conventional cooler, this is a real mini fridge that opens from the front.

The compact and stylish design makes it perfect for many uses, including in your dorm, bedroom, office, or vehicle. You can use it to store food or drinks, but it is also excellent for keeping medications, skincare products, breastmilk, insulin, and other sensitive products at the right temperature.

You get the most from the small space with the included shelf divider, and you can fit up to 6 cans or 4 bottles inside. The motor is highly energy-efficient and quiet, so you will not even notice it running. The Cooluli fridge uses the same thermoelectric design as other models to heat and warm items effectively and efficiently.

What We Like

The Cooluli mini fridge comes with both AC and DC power cords so that you can use it on the go or from a standard electrical outlet. It also comes with a USB cord, giving you more options for keeping your cooler going. The compact size makes it ultra-portable, and the handle on top makes it easy to take just about anywhere.

The Cooluli is perhaps the most stylish of all the electric coolers we have featured. It would look at home on your boat or desk, and it is available in 7 color options, so you can find the right one for your décor.

Overall

The Cooluli Mini Fridge Electric Cooler is great for a single person on the go or for use indoors for special needs. Its low price makes it affordable, and its solid construction and helpful features make it a sound investment. You get excellent cooling performance, versatile power options, and efficient power usage from this mini-fridge.

Koolatron P75 36-Quart Kool Kaddy

Specs:

• Capable of keeping food hot or cold
• Works on 12V DC power
• Holds 36 quarts

Koolatron has been making 12-volt products for over 30 years and is a leader in the electric cooler industry. They offer several models and sizes, including the P75.

The Koolatron electric cooler/warmer is made from solid materials and plenty of insulation, and it uses an ultra-quiet thermoelectric device to heat and cool your food effectively. This electric cooler can be powered by your car’s battery using the provided DC cord, and it can sit either horizontally or vertically, depending on your space and needs.

Cool to 40°F or warm to 135°F with this modestly priced but reliable cooler. Weighing 19 pounds, it is a little heavier than other models, but the handle makes it easy to carry wherever you may need it. 36 quarts is enough space for most families or outings, and your food will stay the appropriate temperature for hours. You can purchase a 110 AC adapter from the manufacturer to use this cooler indoors, as well.

What We Like

The versatility of this cooler is appreciated. The removable shelf and ability to use it as a conventional cooler or small refrigerator gives you options depending on your space and needs. When not in use, the DC power cord wraps neatly away, too.

The Koolatron name is well trusted in the industry, and this well-made cooler is among the largest in their line. If you need less capacity, we highly recommend the Koolatron 33-quart model, and the 18-quart captured our #10 spot below.

Overall

The Koolatron P75 is a versatile, affordable electric cooler/warmer that gives you everything you need with nothing you don’t. You get excellent capacity, efficient heating and cooling, and ease of use for a terrific value. From a trusted manufacturer, you can’t go wrong.

ARB Portable Fridge Freezer

Specs:

• Capable of keeping food cold or frozen up to 0°F
• Can be powered by either AC or DC sources
• Holds 50 quarts

Rivaling the Dometic model in our Premium Pick spot is the ARB Portable Fridge Freezer.

This is the second compressor-driven electric cooler on our list. The ARB model can keep foods cold at a constant temperature up to 0°F, which is more than enough to maintain frozen foods for more extended periods. This model is quite large, holding up to 72 cans.

The ARB model includes a battery protection system to avoid unwanted rundowns. You will receive both AC and DC compatible power cables, giving you the flexibility to use this cooler indoors or out. While you can’t warm with this type of electric cooler, some users will appreciate being able to freeze foods with the lower temperatures.

What We Like

Unlike thermoelectric coolers, this compressor-driven model will stay at a constant temperature once it is set. The temperature control settings are easy to use, and you can even adjust the temperature using an exclusive mobile app, as well. The sturdy construction makes it perfect for taking on road trips or using outdoors. You also get a removable wire basket and two compartments, making it easy to keep things organized inside.

This cooler comes with recessed handles that make it easy to carry but also serve as excellent tie-down points for securing to your vehicle. Inside, you have an LED light to make it easy to locate precisely what you need. You can even purchase a slide mechanism from the manufacturer to make it easy to access this large cooler from your vehicle without having to lift it out each time.

Overall

The quality steel construction and heavy-duty compressor system make the ARB Portable Fridge Freezer an excellent option for those who spend a lot of time outdoors. While the high price may not be for everyone, for those needing freezer capability or long-term use, it could be exactly what you need.

Igloo Iceless Thermoelectric Cooler

Specs:

• Capable of keeping food cold without ice
• Works on 12V DC power
• Holds 26 quarts

From Igloo, a leader in coolers since 1947, the Iceless Thermoelectric Cooler is a mid-size, moderately priced option for those in need of a no-frills electric cooler.

Weighing just 9 pounds but capable of holding up to 32 cans, this small cooler packs a punch. You can easily carry this cooler with its comfort-grip handle, and the ergonomic design means you will not tire too quickly.

The space-saving design of this cooler means it can fit just about anywhere in your vehicle and provide hours of cooling power without the need for ice. The curved side hugs your body, making it less awkward to transport, too.

What We Like

The DC power cord measures 8 feet, making it easy to plug it in anywhere in your car, RV, or boat. It is easy to clean and maintain this thermoelectric cooler, and you will enjoy cool drinks and food wherever you go up to 36°F below the ambient temperature.

Overall

The Igloo Iceless Thermoelectric Cooler is great for a picnic for 4, a day at the beach, or your next family road trip. It has enough room and cooling power to meet your needs at a price you can afford. From a reputable manufacturer, this Igloo model would be a fantastic addition to your travel plans.

Koolatron 18 -Quart Compact Cooler

Specs:

• Capable of keeping food hot or cold
• Works on 12V DC power
• Holds 18 quarts

Like the larger Koolatron model we featured earlier, the 18-quart compact model is made from sturdy, hard-sided plastic construction by a reputable manufacturer with a long history in thermoelectric appliances.

The 18-quart compact is ideal for use in the car on road trips and can even fit between the seats of many cars, SUVs, or minivans. This 12-volt cooler comes with an 8-foot cord that wraps up for easy storage.

 

This Koolatron model holds up to 23 cans in its compact interior, and the handle makes it easy to carry wherever you need to go. We chose this model because of its unique shape that still boasts plenty of storage capacity, giving you options for all sorts of needs.

What We Like

The slim design of the Koolatron 18-quart makes it perfect for small cars. It can rest behind the front seats or just under the glove box with no problems. It is ideal for a few people or a lone traveler, and its durable construction means it is still suitable for outdoor use. This model still warms, like its bigger cousins, which is a nice feature to have when you need it. It is compact, quiet, and efficient, getting the job done in a small package.

Overall

The Koolatron 18-quart Compact Cooler is a great, affordable option for those with limited space or tight vehicles. You will not have enough room for an entire family’s food and drinks, but it is just enough for one or two people or a small meal. The reputation of this manufacturer gives you confidence that you are getting a quality product, as well.

Buyer’s Guide to Finding the Best Electric Cooler

Effectiveness

This is probably at the top of your list when considering an electric cooler. Does it keep your food or drinks cool without the use of ice? Some will work better than others at maintaining colder temperatures, which is mainly due to insulation, the capacity of the thermoelectric plate, and ventilation. Most coolers will struggle to keep up on sweltering days, no matter their quality, though.

Power Source

Depending on how you plan to use your electric cooler, having the option to use either AC (home) or DC (battery) power could be significant. While you can purchase a separate adapter and converter to use any DC plug with a standard wall outlet, it is nice when the adapter or a separate cord is included. How much power your unit uses may also be a consideration if you plan to be off-grid for extended periods, as you do not want to drain your batteries quickly. Some coolers even include USB ports, so you can charge other electronics while your cooler is using your power outlet.

Size

Your cooler needs will vary a lot, depending on how much room you need. While larger coolers may seem like the best choice, you may be looking for something small to fill a specific need, such as fitting between the seats in your car. We all have different size requirements, so you must get a cooler that will meet yours. Every cooler has a different amount of usable space inside compared to the outside dimensions, as well. Pay attention to all these specifications, especially if you are looking to fit your cooler into a specific area in your vehicle, boat, RV, or home.

Temperature Control

Some coolers allow you to control the temperature using a thermostat, which can help you save power when the ambient temperature is cooler. Thermostats maintain a constant set temperature, which may be vital if you are using the cooler to chill medications or keep food frozen.

Features

Your needs may require specific features or options that are not commonly included in all coolers, and some have features that are nice but not crucial to your use of the cooler. Features to consider whether you need include the ability to keep food warm, carrying handles or straps, wheels, ergonomic designs, and many others. Depending on your needs and planned uses for the cooler, some features may be more relevant to you than others.

Price

Price is always a crucial factor in buying something new, and there is an extensive range when it comes to electric coolers. For some, the premium price is justified because you get so much more for your money, including the ability to freeze foods. Depending on your needs, you may need to move to a higher price point to get the features you desire.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are there different types of electric coolers?

A: Yes. There are two primary categories of electric coolers, which include the thermoelectric as well as the compressor-driven coolers we have featured in our list. Compressor models are more powerful and can maintain colder temperatures, but they are also larger, heavier, and less portable. Thermoelectric coolers are standard for most manufacturers because they are lightweight, easy to use and maintain, and usually have more features. But, if you need to freeze foods or keep things frozen for extended periods, then you will need to invest in a compressor-driven model.

Q: What size is best?

A: This is a question that only you can answer for yourself. If you are using it to keep drinks and sandwiches cool on road trips with your family, anything between 7-18 quarts should be fine. Others are looking for a mini size to use in tight spaces or to just keep medicines or a few drinks cool. Larger outings or groups will want something that is at least 40 quarts. If you plan to use your cooler for many purposes, you should opt for the largest size you will need.

Q: What are the optimal temperatures I should look for in an electric cooler?

A: Your electric cooler should be able to reduce the interior temperature by at least 40°F from the outside temperature. Even on the hottest days, this will be enough to keep drinks and food cool enough to enjoy safely. You can also add a sealed container of ice to your cooler to help lower the temperature even further, but using bags of ice is not recommended, as they can leak and damage the electronics of your cooler.

Q: Does the warming function really work?

A: While you can’t cook raw food using the warming function, you can keep already-cooked food warm while you are transporting it or waiting to eat. It is not a portable stovetop, but it offers enough heat to keep food and beverages warm and at a safe temperature.

Q: Is an electric cooler efficient?

A: For its purpose, an electric cooler is the most efficient type of cooler you can buy. These products do have their limitations, though, so it is unfair to compare the efficiency of an electric cooler to a refrigerator, freezer, or portable stove. It does an excellent job of keeping foods and drinks cool or warm until they can be consumed.

Q: Will an electric cooler drain my car, boat, or RV battery?

A: If the vehicle is running, you are safe, as the engine continually recharges the battery. If you are not driving or boating, though, you will need to exercise caution, as the electric cooler can drain your battery over time. Depending on how much power draw your cooler takes and how strong your battery is to start, you can usually run your cooler without the engine running for at least three hours. For an RV, if you are running your cooler off your house battery, you should exercise caution about drawing down too much power.

Q: Will my cooler stay cold without being plugged in?

A: Just like a traditional cooler, your electric cooler is insulated, which means that it can hold in cold air (or warm air on the heat setting) for an extended period. The lid must stay closed, though, as every time it opens, more heat is transferred. Once it is plugged back in, it will take some time to reach its optimal setting, as well. The fuller the cooler, the more insulated it is, and the more likely it will stay cold without being plugged in.

Q: Can I use my electric cooler in an enclosed space?

A: Electric coolers work by drawing heat away from the interior and venting it through an external fan. The harder that fan must work, due to limited space or high external temperatures, the less efficient it is. It is important that your electric cooler has enough ventilation room around the exterior to release the interior heat. If you place your cooler in an enclosed space, like a trunk, it can heat the area quickly, which reduces its ability to keep the items inside cold. While you can use your cooler in enclosed spaces, it is more efficient for it to have more breathing room around its exterior.

Conclusion

Whether you are a camper or boater, love to fish or hunt, or spend a lot of time in your car, an electric cooler is an excellent option for helping to preserve your food without the need for ice. Many electric coolers can also double as a food warmer when transporting hot dishes, too. And because they all work on DC power, you can use them in your car, boat, RV, or anywhere DC power is available.

The models we have listed offer a wide range of sizes, options, and features, and there is something for just about everyone. From ultra-slim models that hold only a few quarts to sub-zero freezers that can keep enough food for weeks, there is an electric cooler out there that can meet your needs.

Product Boxes: Last updated on 2021-03-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API