Chilled Perfection: Unveiling the Best Coolers for BBQs in 2023

Are you tired of serving up meat that's unevenly cooked, tough, or lacking in flavor? Look no further! We have the ultimate solution to elevate your barbecue game to new heights. Introducing the best cooler for BBQs in 2023 – a game-changer that guarantees succulent, juicy meat every time. In this article, we'll guide you through the top coolers for resting meat, providing detailed reviews and a comprehensive buyer's guide. Get ready to discover the secret weapon that will take your barbecue master skills to the next level!

Coolers for Resting Meat Buyer's Guide

Choosing the perfect cooler for resting meat can be a challenging task. There are several factors you need to consider, including the following.

Material Quality and Durability

Most people want a cooler that will last a long time. The durability of a cooler depends on the quality of its materials. The best coolers for resting meat are designed to withstand heavy weight and stress. Therefore, they should be made with high-quality and durable materials.

Heat Retention

It is important to choose a cooler with good insulation to keep your meat heated for as long as possible. This will allow you to rest your meat for an extended period if needed.

Reviews of the Top Coolers for Resting Meat

1. YETI Tundra 45 Cooler

The YETI Tundra 45 Cooler is a heavy-duty cooler featuring a three-inch thick interior made of durable commercial-grade polyurethane foam insulation. This cooler measures 25.5in. x 16in. x 15.5in. and weighs approximately 10.9lbs. It can hold 45 quarts of your smoked meat and keep the temperature for up to 7 hours. Its portable design allows you to take it wherever you go. The cooler's Rotomolded Construction ensures both full armor and nearly indestructibility.

Pros:

- Portable and lightweight

- Suitable size

- Comes with an additional basket

- Rotomolded Construction for durability

Cons:

- No release valve or metal hasps

- Can't hold ice for more than two days

2. Igloo 52 Qt BMX Cooler

The Igloo 52 Qt BMX Cooler is lightweight yet more spacious (26.2in. x 16.41in. x 16.06in.) than the Coleman 24-can cooler option. It can hold 51 quarts of smoked meat and provides efficient output with higher ice retention for about five days. This cooler is built with a durable, blow-molded construction and high-quality polypropylene material. It is rust-resistant and won't degrade with use. The reinforced base enhances strength and maximum protection. Rubber latches ensure the safety of the lids and your resting meat. If you're looking for a cost-effective cooler with a solid lifespan, Igloo is a great choice.

Pros:

- Very strong and durable

- Features rubber-made latches

- Offers efficient output and longer ice retention

- Includes UV inhibitors for safety

Cons:

- No gasket between the cooler and cover

- Not ideal for travel purposes

3. Coleman 24-Can Party Stacker Portable Cooler

The Coleman 24-can cooler is not only portable but also lightweight (0.04 kg) with smaller dimensions (13.41in. x 22.05in. x 8.35in.). It features a durable, non-toxic, environmentally-friendly insulation material that emits less CO2. This cooler has a small chamber width of 9 inches, capable of accommodating about 12 to 14 quarts of brisket chunks. To rest your meat, simply place it inside the chamber and cover it with a towel or aluminum foil before closing the lid.

Pros:

- Made with environmentally-friendly materials

- Can keep your meat warm for hours

Cons:

- Cold air can escape quickly from this cooler

- Lower temperature retention compared to more expensive coolers

Best Coolers of 2023

According to testing, the Cabela's Polar Cap option used to hold the title for the best large cooler, but it has been replaced by a Magellan Outdoors model. However, if you want unparalleled cold retention, you cannot go wrong with Cabela's Polar Cap. It maintained the lowest internal temperature for 20% longer than its closest competitor.

The prices for these coolers range from $300 to $400 for the 60-, 80-, and 100-quart models. What you are paying for is exceptional performance. While these coolers do not have many fancy features, they do have built-in bottle openers, a pressure relief valve, and rubber padded feet to reduce heat transfer. They are also certified bear-resistant.

The performance of Magellan's large coolers is comparable to Cabela's Polar Cap Equalizer. The temperature difference between the two is less than one degree Fahrenheit. If your main concern is keeping things cold, it may not be worth paying an extra hundred bucks for a slightly lower temperature.

Yeti coolers are known for their top-notch performance, and the Tundra Haul is no exception. Although it was not the coldest overall, it maintained its lowest temperature for a longer duration than its competitors. The Tundra Haul features rugged wheels, making it suitable for rough terrain. It is also easily transportable and provides maximum cooling duration.

Magellan coolers continue to impress with their performance. The data clearly shows that they outperform their competitors. Magellan's coolers are more affordable, but they still offer plenty of extras such as dual-side latches that double as hinges, wheels, and metal bottle opener inserts.

RTIC coolers offer impressive cooling capabilities at a great price. They have the lowest temperatures in the midsize cooler category and are competitive with larger coolers. Currently priced at $220, the RTIC cooler provides excellent performance at a more affordable price point compared to its competitors.

The performance of the ice chest newcomer is nearly identical to the Yeti Tundra 45 Cooler. Yeti gets slightly colder, but Magellan holds its temperature for a longer period. The deciding factor between the two is the price. The Magellan Outdoors unit costs less than half of the Yeti cooler.

Please note that the opinions expressed above are based on testing and data analysis. For more in-depth reviews, refer to our Magellan Outdoors Dual Open 20qt Cooler review.

In conclusion, having a reliable and efficient cooler for resting meat is an essential part of any successful BBQ experience. With our buyer's guide and reviews of the top coolers for resting meat, you can confidently choose the best cooler that suits your needs. Whether you're a seasoned pitmaster or just starting out, these coolers are sure to keep your meat chilled and fresh until it's time to serve. So, go ahead and invest in one of these top coolers for resting meat in 2023, and take your BBQ game to the next level. Happy grilling!