Best Electric Cooler

If you’re headed out on a trip and need to take food with you, you’ll need a cooler. But sometimes you’ll be out somewhere ice is unavailable. Or you’re in a position where storage space is incredibly important.

You need an electric cooler! These amazing coolers are powered, and ice-free. They keep your food chilled without the hassle of ice. No need to drain your cooler, no worries about wet, spoiled food.

This article reviews 10 of the best electric coolers available. We also include a buyer’s guide that goes over the details. We’ll start with the best electric cooler, the Dometic Electric Portable Cooler

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Best Electric Cooler

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Our Top Pick: Dometic Electric Powered Portable Cooler

Key Points at a Glance

• Ultra-low power consumption
• No need for ice
• Can be Powered by AC, DC, or Solar
• Rugged Construction
• Energy Efficient
• Several sizes available, item shown is 70l

The Details

The Dometic Electric Powered Portable Cooler is the best electric cooler on this list. But that rating comes with a very high price point. There’s no ice needed! This cooler has a dual-zone cooling compartment to keep food and drink cool.

Users can enjoy 60% more storage capacity with its same exterior space. It’s the perfect cooler for your boat, RV, or car.

Advanced technology is one of the best features of this cooler. Users can monitor and control the cooling temperature via the WiFi app. There are energy-efficient LED light and removable wire baskets that can be used for better organization.

Stay out longer and go further with the Dometic Electric Powered Portable Cooler. As the largest dual-zone powered cooler in its CFX range, its a perfect companion for groups for extended trips away from shore, or for larger groups that are away on the weekend.

This cooler is fitted with high-quality details such as stainless steel hinges, robust lid lining, and reinforced corners. Dometic’s coolers can withstand the toughest loads at once without issue. It’s great for the boat, but try to avoid getting it wet when possible.

There are several size options available, with corresponding changes in price. The one we are looking at here can hold up to 70liters, or 113 cans.

If you’re working under extreme space constraints, you can remove the handles on the Dometic. Once it’s in place, you can unscrew the handles and gain a few inches. Of course, you need to ensure that air flows around the compressor, so you can’t completely block off the fans. But this added flexibility is a nice extra.

No, the Dometic cooler isn’t a necessity. You could use a standard cooler. But it is beautiful, high-tech, powerful, compact, and works flawlessly. It comes at a high price, but the Dometic is the Best Thermoelectric Cooler available.

We love lots of Dometic products, and their AC units are among the best marine air conditioners on the market.

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Our Runner Up: LiONCooler Portable Solar Fridge Freezer

Key Points at a Glance

• Easily switch from Fahrenheit to Celsius
• Quiet and Reliable
• Powered by 120v AC, 12v DC, or Solar
• Several sizes available. Cooler shown is 40 liter/53 cans.
• 4℉ Freezing Temperature

The Details

The LiONCooler Portable Solar Fridge Freezer easily wins the best name contest, and it gets the runner-up spot in terms of quality. This beauty can be powered in three different ways. Users can charge it via AC (home), car (12v), or with the solar panel. On average, it takes 4-5 hours to charge, making it a great, fast-charging cooler. It’s ideal for the next fishing trip.

There are several sizes available in different configurations and price points. The one we’re looking at here is 40 liters, or approximately 53 cans.

One full battery charge gives it enough power to last for 10 hours. With its LCD display, it helps users monitor and controls the temperature settings with ease. With the use of its Smart Technology, users can adjust the temperature to their desired setting.

It’s easily replaceable battery design allows for additional backup batteries. And it has more sizes that you can choose from 0L/32 Qts; 50L/ 52 Qts. Based on both of these features alone, you’ll have a good freeze that can keep everything cooled until its time to eat.

This versatile cooler can be used on most occasions. It can be used for boating, RVing, camping, sports, tailgating, and fishing. If you want a versatile and effective cooler, the LiON is an excellent choice.

This is our runner up choice among the Best Electric Coolers.

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Budget Pick: Ansten Mini Fridge Thermoelectric Cooler

Key Points at a Glance

• Quick Refrigeration
• 2 Power cables
• 15L Storage capacity
• Portable for easy movement
• Foam Insulation

The Details

Next up is the Ansten Mini Fridge Electric Cooler. This cooler acts as a mini-fridge as its able to freeze without using ice. Users can adjust the temperature to -4°F (-20°C). And with its 45W low power consumption, it can act as a fridge or a freezer based on the user’s needs.

This is a 15-liter cooler, giving the user enough space to store 20 cans of soda. Chilling the cooler without any ice bags give it more space. With this amount of storage, users can keep their food cold and can take it anywhere with them. They will be ready for the boat grill when it’s time to cook!

The Ansten Mini Fridge Electric Cooler includes two separate power cables to connect to 110/240 V AC units and 12/24 DC electrical systems. Thus, making it easier to transport the fridge from your home to your vehicle. And it works great with a solar system as well.

It’s robust, and resistant construction is one of the reasons why its a favorite amongst fishermen. It’s designed for voltage protection, which doesn’t affect your normal driving. So you’ll have no issue when keeping the cooler safe.

This is the best thermoelectric cooler for those on a budget.

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KUPPET Portable Refrigerator

Key Points at a Glance

• 30 Watts
• Energy Saving
• Fast Cooling
• 15L Capacity
• Temperature: -20 ° C

The Details

With its 15L capacity, this cooler can hold a significant number of drinks. This gives the user enough space to store food and snacks. You can apply this refrigerator at home, vehicles, or camping fishing tools. Because of its multi-use, your food will retain its quality.

These portable fridges are made to provide excellent cooling performance. It’s a powerful portable option that can be used for traveling or at home. The cooler can keep its temperature as low as -4°F (-20°C) in it, so it can remain cool for hours.

This electric cooler is designed to provide a better solution than ice cubes and cooler boxes. The fridge can literally keep food and beverages cold because of its powerful compressor. Even when fishing in extreme environments, the cooler will work fine.

For on the road use, there is a 12V/24V DC outlet to charge the cooler proper. If you’re at home, there is a 110/240V AC adapter that can be used. Due to its multi-use properties, you won’t have issues getting your food at the right temperature during snack time.

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XtremepowerUS Portable Electric Cooler

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Key Points at a Glance

• Fast cooling
• Bright LCD Screen
• Bluetooth Function
• 26 Quart Capacity (other sizes available)
• Can run on standard 110v or 12v power

The Details

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The XtremepowerUS Portable Electric Cooler is a great electric cooler at a reasonable price. Like most high-end coolers, it’s known for its ease of use. Simply connect the cooler to your power source, select a mode, and find a target temperature.

Thanks to its bright LCD screen, users can see the temperature displayed right in front of them.

This baby is a beautiful, compact electric cooler. It doesn’t take up a lot of space, and is perfect for your boat or RV. Plus, its top-open design won’t distract drivers when you’re planning on taking in food or drinks.

With its compressor cooling technology, the refrigerator is made to achieve fast cooling. It comes with an ECO mode so you can stay energy efficient. If you’re trying to go for full cooling, there is a MAX option available.

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And it’s large capacity is another feature worth talking about. Its 26-quart capacity is excellent for adding freezer or refrigerator space when boats, RVs, fishing, tailgating, and outdoor activities. So you’ll have enough storage to keep your favorite food and equipment using this cooler.

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Electrical Cooler Buyer’s Guide

Who Should Buy an Electric Cooler

Sometimes you’ll be in a place where ice is hard to come by. Or you’re strapped for space and want a cooler that can be packed to the max.

It doesn’t matter if you’re going on a weekend camping, hiking, or fishing trip, you’ll want an electric cooler. Thermoelectric coolers offer an added layer of protection to your favorite food and beverages, as they can regulate the temperature within minutes.

For fishermen, an electric cooler helps with keeping your bait prepared before you start fishing. This can result in better catches as you’ll have fresh bait dropped in the water. Regardless, having an electrical cooler is great if you want to remain comfortable and well-fed during your trip outdoors.

How to Use a Thermoelectric Cooler

If possible, you should bring your cooler to the target temperature at home before you leave, using the standard 110v wall plug. This is the most efficient way to get your cooler to temperature. It’s a lot easier and more effective than waiting until you’re on your trip to start cooling the cooler.

Once you start your trip, plug into a 12v outlet or solar connection, and the power supply will keep the cooler at the desired temperature.

Important Features to Consider

Power Source

Most electrical coolers can be powered in multiple ways. Typically they can be powered through a regular 110v outlet (think a standard wall plug). Many can also be powered through a 12v outlet (a cigarette-lighter plug). And some can be powered by a solar panel, typically included with the cooler.

Construction

If you’re planning on taking your trip overseas or offroad, then you should get a cooler that’s designed for such adventure. These units are made of steel cabinets and can withstand up to years of usage.

Durable handles are also a must. Not only do they serve to help lift and transport the cooler, but they also help keep the cooler tied down when you’re sailing.

Some electric coolers have removable handles, for those times when every inch counts. Just remember you need to allow sufficient airflow around the cooler’s compressor.

Weight

Since electric coolers are portable items, weight must be taken into consideration.Your cooler needs to be light enough for the average person to carry. A good cooler will have steel covering with injection lids to help with weight reduction.

Having a heavy cooler means that two or more people are needed to carry it around. This also increases the chance of damaging the boat when moving it around the vehicle.

Easy to Clean

No matter how careful you are with your cooler, you will accumulate mess inside the cabinet. Your electric cooler needs to be cleaned out. We suggest getting an evaporator in the system so that nothing gets in between the evaporator and the cabinet. There is a drain at the bottom necessary if you need to hose down the cooler in case of a spillage.

This is still much less hassle than cleaning out a standard cooler.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can an electric cooler stand vertically?

Check to see where your compressor is located. Based on some models, you can potentially damage the compressor if you stand it up vertically. And you need to be sure to allow airflow around the compressor.

Can this cooler be used without an electric generator?

Yes. Always check how your cooler operates to ensure that it can work without one. All coolers will gradually lose their temperature if unplugged. You usually can use ice if necessary and now power source is available.

Does the cooler come with handles? Or do I have to purchase it separately?

Yes, most electric coolers tend to have handles placed at the end of the unit. Some are removable.

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Other Products We Looked At:

Knox Electric Travel Cooler and Warmer

Sixth on our list is the Knox Thermoelectric Travel Cooler and Warmer. Whether you’ll be sailing, camping, or traveling, this is a great device for food storage. You’ll realize that it acts as a cooler and a refrigerator for your convenience.

However, there are some issues regarding temperature control. Some users were unable to keep the cooler under 55 degrees. This can be difficult for users who want to keep their food cold and not lukewarm, so think about this before buying it.

And it has over 47 quarts of storage, which is enough to store over 12 gallons of beverages, fits 2-liter bottles, and consists of interior dividers for better organization. So you’ll keep all of your food compartments cooled and organized to be used for later.

Key Points at a Glance

• 47 Quart Storage
• Ergonomic and Safe Travel
• 3 Removable Compartment Drivers

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Alpicool CF35 Portable Refrigerator

The Alpicool CF35 Portable Refrigerator is known for its chilling down performance. It allows users to adjust the temperature to -4°F(-20°C) with ease. You’ll have the ability to have cool or freeze without using ice.

This cooler has a 3 level battery protection system, which helps keep your vehicle’s battery charged without running it down. It’s capable of being powered from a 12V or 24V battery, giving it enough power to keep your food cold.

However, it does have issues with its plastic latch. After extensive use, users reported that the plastic latch broke. This can be difficult for users who want to carry the cooler around, as they’ll have to remain careful when handling the latches.

Key Points at a Glance

• 2 Power Cables
• -4°F(-20°C) max temperature level
• 45 Watts of Power

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CIGREEN 34.9 Quart (33 Liter) Portable Refrigerator

The CIGREEN 34.9 Quart (33 Liter) Portable Refrigerator is a solid choice for those wanting fast and precise cooling. It features a -0.4°F to 50°F temperature max that can be controlled easily. Select the TURBO setting for fast cooling and the ECO setting for environmentally friendly cooling.

Once the systems reach the minimum limit, the cooler will automatically shut off the compressor to prevent the battery from being overused. And it includes two handles that can be used for easy transportation.

You might want to be wary about the battery power. Some users stated that the cooler’s battery would deplete faster on TURBO mode. Besides that, it’s a good alternative cooler that can be used for short fishing trips.

Key Points at a Glance

• LCD Display Panel
• Portable handles on each side
• High-Efficiency Compressor

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Igloo Iceless Electric 28 Quart Cooler

The Igloo Iceless Electric 28 Quart Cooler is known for its compact size and performance. Like a home refrigerator, this box is able to cool the surrounding air and its contents. This thermoelectric cooler is designed to cool content up to 35 degrees after 5 minutes of operation.

Another feature lies in its lack of meltwater. Regular coolers have melted ice that can penetrate through the food’s packaging and obscure the contents. In the Igloo Iceless Electric 28 Quart Cooler, these issues don’t exist, making it easier for your food to remain fresh inside the cooler.

On the other hand, the cooler has a limited battery source. This means that you’ll have to keep it around a reliable power source in order for it to last throughout the day. Despite this small issue, it’s still an excellent cooler to have if you’re on a budget and want something that can last throughout the weekend.

Key Points at a Glance

• Quick TemperatureRegulation
• Durable Handles
• Holds 20 cans

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Kalamera Portable Refrigerator Freezer

Last on our list is the Kalamera Portable Refrigerator Freezer. It features a refrigeration range between -1F to 50F for food, drinks, or additional items. The Eco Mode reaches 32F within an hour while the Turbo Mode reaches 32F within two minutes. Thus, making it a great alternative cooler to have on your boat.

We like this cooler’s ability to offer long term support. Once this small thermoelectric cooler reaches the optimal temperature, it will continue to maintain it without wasting energy. It’s well-insulated, meaning that it will keep food frozen for 10 hours without needing to be unplugged.

However, there is a small flaw with this electric cooler. After unboxing, some consumers complained that the portable freezer would stop working. Make sure to check the refrigerator’s temperature before using it, as it can run into issues on occasion.

Key Points at a Glance

• ECO and TURBO mode available
• Modern and Quiet
• Low Voltage Protection

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Conclusion

To conclude this cooler review, we hope you have zoomed in on the right option for your needs and budget. If you want the best electric cooler overall, go for the Dometic Electric Cooler. It’s pricey but fantastic. Another great choice is the LiONCooler. And if you’re on a budget, be sure to check out the Ansten.

No matter what cooler you choose, you’ll have a reliable tool in staying well fed during your future boating adventures!

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