List of the Top-Rated Electrical Coolers Coming Out in 2022

Over the past few years, the best portable refrigerators and electric coolers have revolutionized outdoor living. They'll genuinely alter how you pack and put together your camp meals. To assist you in selecting the ideal electric cooler for you, we tested some of the best products currently available.

Say goodbye to bags of ice that are rock-hard and the foul water that collects at the bottom of coolers. It's time to add an electric cooler to your kit if you're ready for a significant upgrade to your camp kitchen.

These portable refrigerators can be powered by a car battery, portable power units, solar panels, and other sources. You can fill your iceless cooler to the brim with food and beverages to keep the temperature constant indefinitely.

Even some of the electric coolers we suggest have dual zones, so you can keep beverages and frozen foods separate and at the right temperatures.

This thorough buyer's guide will assist you in locating the ideal electric cooler for your unique requirements. You can navigate through the recommendations using the links below, or you can scroll down to see all the excellent choices we chose for this list.

If you're having trouble deciding, read our buying guide and FAQs at the bottom of the article. These will assist you in learning how to compare the numerous features of electric coolers to choose the one that will work the best in your specific situation.

Check out our article on the seven things to understand before purchasing an electric cooler for more information.

Dometic CFX3 55 IM Powered Cooler, best overall

Dometic's CFX3 55 IM Powered Cooler; (image courtesy of Drew Martin)

It is not surprising that Dometic is highly ranked on this list. The company is a favorite of campers, RVers, and other experts on living a mobile lifestyle. It also appears in everything from RVs to megayachts as a global brand. If you decided to stop reading right here and purchase a Dometic Powered Cooler, we wouldn't hold it against you.

The best electric cooler is the CFX3 55 IM ($1,200), which strikes a good balance between capacity, cost, and portability. It has strong handles and a durable construction, just like all Dometic products. Considering its large capacity, which can hold 50 soda cans, this cooler is surprisingly lightweight.

However, the primary factor that makes people adore Dometic is its energy efficiency. To keep things cool and use as little energy as possible, the cooler has a powerful compressor that can freeze down to -7 degrees Fahrenheit and a powerful insulation factor.

Seiji Ishii, a GearJunkie reviewer, explained that the electric cooler can produce ice. Read his complete CFX3 review.

The fact that the Dometic product line has made a significant entry into the 21st century is another major benefit. In addition to having a stylish, high-resolution display, the electric cooler is Bluetooth-enabled and app-compatible.

You can manage the cooler's temperature and track its historical power usage by downloading the Dometic app to your phone. However, all these great features come with a hefty price tag, so if you're looking for something more reasonably priced, you might want to scroll down.

Specs:

• Size: 27 3″ x 16″ x 15 7″
• 36 L are allowed.
• Weight: 37 pounds
• Minimum temperature is -7 degrees Fahrenheit.

Pros:

• Lightweight
• Handles that are practical and comfortable
• Decent insulation
• App-enabled controls

Cons:

Price comparisons at REI and Amazon

The National Luna 50L Dual Control Legacy Fridge/Freezer is the best refrigerator/freezer cooler.

The National Luna 50L Dual Control Legacy Fridge/Freezer is shown in the photo below.

Bryon Dorr, editor of overland and motoring, has used a variety of 12V fridges while traveling overland. His most effective setup to date is from National Luna.

The 50L National Luna Legacy Dual Control ($1,295) is attractive, small for its capacity, dependable (it has been in operation for over 30 years), and incredibly efficient. The three organizer baskets that come with this refrigerator/freezer are Dorr's favorite feature. They make loading the fridge before and after a trip simple and make it incredibly easy to find food at the bottom of the refrigerator.

The National Luna's dimpled aluminum skin feels, looks, and is premium. The onboard proprietary compressor not only quickly and efficiently cools the refrigerator/freezer, but it also has an eight-year warranty.

Additionally, this dual control cooler has an automatic AC/DC power switch. That means it functions equally well when plugged in on your patio for your upcoming barbecue and when used in your car.

Specs:

• 28" by 15" by 20"
• 38 - capacity 11 L (right zone), 3 L (left zone).
• Weight: 54 7 lbs
• 68 degrees to -1 degrees Fahrenheit in the left zone and 68 degrees to -11 degrees F in the right zone.

Pros:

• Very effective
• Organizer bins are fantastic.
• Durable
• Good looks

Cons:

• Expensive
• Two latches as opposed to one
• Sometimes difficult to locate in stock

Price check at Equipt

The ARB Zero Portable Fridge & Freezer is the most durable electric cooler.

It's a beast of a cooler, the ARB Zero Portable Fridge Freezer ($1,742). It has roughly the same dimensions, weight, and capacity as the Dometic but costs significantly more. The added versatility is priceless for people who bring a variety of foods.

First off, compared to the Dometic Dual Zone, this cooler is over half a foot taller, providing deeper storage for items like tall wine bottles. Second, the ARB actually comes with three baskets while the Dometic only has two.

The freezer section of the ARB has its own lid inside to keep your food insulated when you open the fridge section, so don't worry about the single-lid design of the ARB.

Last but not least, the various baskets and compartments can be removed to free up more space if you decide to forgo the fridge/freezer combination and only use one temperature zone. This creates a single, larger space with a total capacity of 69 L.

Although this is still a little bit smaller than Dometic's storage capacity, the product's versatility might be a key factor. This ARB Zero will be capable of handling heavy items like your Thanksgiving turkey if you need to store them.

We also adore the touchscreen, built-in cup holders, integrated handles, and incredibly sturdy frame of the device. The steel case has sturdy corner molding to prevent damage to the electric cooler and your treats inside during a jarring ride. The portable fridge's anti-condensation technology prevents food from becoming wet.

The ARB Zero Freezer Fridge Power Pack is the ideal add-on accessory to keep your cooler running when you do not have access to another power source. The Power Pack is integrated into the electric cooler via a connection. Additionally, it can significantly increase the amount of time your cooler can run. Read our complete ARB Zero Freezer Fridge Power Pack review.

The ARB Zero Portable Fridge Freezer might be the right choice for you if you're looking to invest in a reliable electric cooler that will hold up to numerous wild adventures.

Specs:

• Dimensions: 33" x 21" x 25"
• Volume: 69 L
• Weight: 62 9 lbs
• Range of temperatures: -8 to 50 °F

Pros:

• Versatile
• Dual zones
• Tall shelving
• Very robust
• Power supply that matches (not included)

Cons:

Check Amazon for Price

Dometic CFX3 75 Dual Zone Powered Cooler is the best large electric cooler.

Dometic's CFX3 75 Dual Zone Powered Cooler ($1,400) is a powerhouse and the 55's bigger brother. The relatively unassuming Dometic CFX3 55 is considerably bigger, heavier, and more expensive than this electric cooler, but thanks to its added features, it's a favorite among users for more challenging expeditions.

The Dometic CFX3 75 Dual Zone, as its name suggests, has two storage compartments so you can simultaneously cool and freeze. You can customize the cooler to suit your unique needs by adjusting the temperature of either compartment, which can be set to any level. With a 75L capacity, this electric food cooler can hold 113 soda cans.

The cooler's simplicity of use and superior insulation rating are both praised by reviewers. This high-performance travel cooler makes car camping more comfortable and, dare we say, luxurious. However, given its large size and the likelihood that it will live in your trunk, it might not be the most convenient choice for accessing snacks on a road trip.

Dometic coolers have a dependable three-stage dynamic battery protection system that will safeguard your food for the duration of your adventure if you're looking for a cooler that can last.

Specs:

• Size: 35 1″ x 19 5″ x 18 6″
• Dimensions: 75 L
• Size: 61 lbs.
• Minimum temperature is -7 degrees Fahrenheit.

Pros:

• Large storage capacity considering its weight
• Fridge/freezer combo with two zones
• Dependable and robust
• Controls that are compatible with apps

Cons:

Price comparisons at REI and Amazon

Favorite Cheap Cooler on Amazon: Kohree Portable Refrigerator

Amazon is your best option if you're looking for an affordable electric cooler that works well. There, you can purchase functional portable refrigerators for about a third of what name-brand models cost. However, keep in mind that they typically won't have the effectiveness and strength of our top options.

If affordability is your top priority, consider the Kohree Portable Refrigerator ($259). This item still costs more than standard ice coolers. But it will still keep food and beverages cold for a fraction of the cost of refrigerators from name brands.

The electric cooler can be powered by any power from a solar panel or power plant, as well as 12 V (in a car), 24 V (in a truck), 110/240 V (in a wall socket). This adaptability makes it simple to maintain cold temperatures throughout your entire trip, from packing to driving to snacking outside.

This electric cooler can reduce the interior temperature from 77 to -4 degrees F in just 60 minutes using an aluminum evaporator. Reviewers adore how quiet the electric cooler is, and if you have more time to prepare, the cooler also has an "eco" mode that consumes less energy.

On the portable fridge, Kohree includes a touchscreen control panel and battery protection. The unit has a recessed area for the included carrying handle. Its compact and uniform design may be especially useful if you have a small car or want to fit the cooler between seats in order to keep your kids content while driving.

Specs:

• Size: 22 4″ x 12 6″ x 13 8″
• Dimensions: 25 L
• Weight: 27 3 lbs
• Range of temperatures: -7 6 to 50 degrees F.

Pros:

• Compact
• Lightweight
• Environmental mode
• Integrated handle

Cons:

• Limited capacity
• Possibly too short for tall bottles
• Unstable or inaccurate temperature controls

Check Amazon for Price

Among the Best

MT35F-P Engel Platinum

The Engel Platinum Electric Cooler ($1,150) might be what you need if you're looking for a more compact and energy-efficient appliance. According to the manufacturer, this small cooler is well known for its low power draw, which uses about 40% less energy than a conventional compressor.

The auto-switching system between AC or DC power sources is another fantastic feature of all Engel power systems. You don't need to manually adjust the power input because the cooler can automatically detect the difference.

When compared to other electric coolers with comparable capacities, the unit is surprisingly heavy. This is primarily because it is made of sturdy stainless steel. Due to its heavy frame and lack of wheels, some people may find it difficult to use.

This cooler's thin metal handles that protrude far from its sides are another potential drawback. These handles make it more difficult to pack the electric cooler effectively into a small space and make it more uncomfortable to carry.

The temperature range that the Engel Platinum is capable of reaching is a final potential drawback. If you're looking for a sub-zero freezer, look elsewhere because the minimum temperature is the highest on this list by multiple degrees. Still, this effective electric cooler is a great option for those who are concerned about their energy consumption.

Specs:

• Size: 25 5″ x 14 3″ x 16″
• Volume: 32 L
• 48 lbs. in weight
• Temperature range: 5 degrees minimum 0 °F

Pros:

• Minimal power draw
• Auto-switching mechanism
• a three-year warranty
• Curable

Cons:

• For its small capacity, it is quite heavy.
• Does not provide minimum temperatures below zero
• Slender handles
• Quite expensive

Verify Cost at Engel Coolers

The electric cooler GoSun Chill

None of these gadgets is more environmentally friendly than the GoSun Chill Electric Cooler (9), even though any of them could be powered by a sustainable source like a solar panel and battery bank. For those who desire modern luxury but also want to live sustainably, this is the ideal product.

The battery in your car, an AC adapter, or another power source can all be used to recharge this electric cooler. It can also be plugged into the PowerBank of the electric cooler, which in an emergency can revive a flat phone battery.

The PowerBank is powerful enough to keep the internal temperature of the electric cooler at 40 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 hours or 10 degrees Fahrenheit for 6 hours on an 80 degree day.

The GoSun Chill Electric Cooler can be purchased in a bundle with either the Flexible Solar Panels or the Solar Table, which is a table that doubles as a solar panel. With these extras, you can keep your food and beverages cold wherever you are without having to worry about running down your car's battery.

This electric cooler's stylish, entertaining design, practical wheels, and telescoping handle are just a few more outstanding features. Check out the GoSun Chillest "Solar" Cooler for people who like what GoSun has to offer but prefer a dual-zone option. It has 45 L of storage space split between two fridge or freezer areas.

Specs:

• Size: 23 5″ x 19″ x 16″
• Volume: 40 L
• Weight: 30 2 lbs
• Range of temperatures: -4 to 68 F

Pros:

• Excellent integration with solar table (not included)
• Eco-friendly
• Thanks to the handle and wheels, this is the most portable cooler here.

Cons:

Price comparisons at Amazon and GoSun

Portable refrigerator by Whynter FM-45G

The Whynter Portable Refrigerator ($595) is a highly effective cooler with a lot going for it at its relatively low price point. The unit has a very impressive temperature range, sharing the lowest minimum temperature on this list with the much more expensive ARB Zero. Not only is it the lowest we've ever seen, but it's also about as low as an electric cooler can go.

The secondary "Fast Freeze" mode on the Whynter electric cooler increases power and lowers the temperature as quickly as possible. With just one degree of temperature control variation Of all the coolers we reviewed, it has one of the best control ratings at 6 degrees F.

Other outstanding features include its robust design, detachable storage baskets, and practical drain plug for simple cleaning. Although the handles don't appear to be as comfortable as those on many other electric coolers, you could buy the Transit Bag accessory, which has better handles and pockets for more storage. For hunters and others who spend time in the woods, the portable refrigerator is also available in a camouflage pattern.

Specs:

• Size: 16 5″ x 23 5″ x 20 5″
• Dimensions: 42 L
• 45 lbs. in weight
• Range of temperatures: -8 to 50 °F

Pros:

• Affordable
• Has a mode called "Fast Freeze"
• Fantastic temperature control and minimum range

Cons:

• Tiny handles
• Not particularly fashionable

Price comparisons at Walmart and Amazon

Portable refrigerator with two zones, ICECO VL60

You'll enjoy what the ICECO VL60 Dual Zone Portable Refrigerator (9) has to offer if you like the concept of a dual-zone electric cooler but don't want to pay the prices of the Dometic or ARB options. The majority of reviews for all of ICECO's electric coolers are favorable.

Two zones in this roomy cooler each have the capacity to reach any temperature within the cooler's operating range. Additionally, the ICECO features two cooling settings, MAX and ECO, for fast freezing when necessary and energy efficiency when not.

We especially appreciate how well-built ICECO coolers are. For effective insulation, the metal shell has thick walls, good seals, and steel fasteners.

This electric cooler has a 5-year warranty on the compressor, so you can be sure it will be a wise investment. The electric cooler also includes wired baskets for food organization and an interior LED light so you can always find what you're looking for, even in the dark.

This cooler has a few minor potential drawbacks that you should be aware of before purchasing it. The handles, specifically, don't appear to be as wide and comfortable as some of the others on this list. If you intend to carry the cooler for any distance, its heavy weight may present a challenge.

Furthermore, many of our other recommendations achieve sub-zero temperatures, whereas this electric cooler only offers a minimum temperature of zero degrees Fahrenheit. However, given its low price, we felt compelled to highlight the ICECO Dual Zone Portable Refrigerator's durability and functionality.

Specs:

• Size: 31 2″ x 19 4″ x 18 8″
• Dimensions: 60 L
• Weight: 65 7 lbs
• Range of temperatures: 0 to 50 degrees F

Pros:

• LED interior lighting
• Modes of cooling MAX and ECO

Cons:

• Does not provide minimum temperatures below zero.
• A thin handle's potential discomfort

Price comparisons at Walmart and Amazon

Why You Should Believe in Us

We've reviewed quite a few electric coolers as well as standard ice chests, soft and hard shells, and even backpack coolers, as you can see from all the included links. We are experts in outdoor products and strive to give you the most accurate information on the equipment you require.

Over the course of three years, we examined five models for this guide. Additionally, we looked into the top-selling, best-rated, and most favorable electric coolers available. You can read the in-depth product reviews we've already written about some of these items to learn even more about why we endorse each of these electric coolers.

How to Choose the Best Electric Cooler, a Buyer's Guide

Size and Volume

As you can see from our list of suggestions, there are many different sizes of electric coolers. In general, the cooler will have more capacity the larger it is. But bigger doesn't always mean better. Its weight and footprint in your car will increase with its size.

Electric coolers typically weigh one pound per liter of storage capacity. When comparing coolers to determine which offers the best portability to capacity ratio, keep this in mind.

Think about the number of people in your group and your typical trip length when selecting the appropriate size for your electric cooler. You might select a smaller cooler for weekend trips that are brief. Even a short trip could necessitate a larger cooler with plenty of storage space if you have a large family.

Temperature Zones: Number

Your cooler becomes more versatile with multiple temperature zones, but they usually come at a price. You'll need an electric cooler with dual zones if you intend to bring both chilled and frozen food. On this list, dual-zone portable refrigerators are available from Dometic, ARB, National Luna, and ICECO.

For those who travel with medications that require refrigeration, dual zones may also be necessary. This enables prescriptions to be kept at the proper temperature regardless of what else is in the cooler. According to your needs, you can use either zone as a fridge or freezer since they both have the same temperature range.

Mobility and weight

Size and portability go hand in hand with many electric coolers. Larger electric coolers would need to be placed in the trunk, whereas smaller units are easier to transport or store (such as between the bucket seats of a van so your kids can access snacks during a road trip).

Remember that the weights listed in these product specifications pertain to the coolers' empty weights as you read them. It is a lot if it seems that way. These tiny portable refrigerators can weigh a lot because they have more moving parts than straightforward ice coolers.

Drinks and food can easily increase the weight listed to a level that makes it difficult to carry. Therefore, think about how you'll load it and whether you need to frequently remove your refrigerator from the car while it's in use.

Shelves and Structure

Some electric coolers have various compartments divided by baskets and shelving. Having your food and beverages organized can help you know where everything is at all times. Baskets and shelves are essential for organizing food, even in an electric cooler without multiple zones.

For instance, our top pick, the smaller Dometic Portable Cooler, has a detachable basket. This makes it simple to reach bulky items kept at the cooler's bottom.

In accordance with the location you choose to keep tall items, the single basket can also be moved back and forth. If this storage system strikes you as a crucial component for your subsequent electric cooler, pay close attention to the offerings from Dometic, ARB, and National Luna.

Temperature regulation

While maintaining your electric cooler at a specific temperature down to the degree may not be necessary, you'll want the accuracy of setting it within a few degrees. Your decision of which electric cooler to buy should take good temperature control for wine, ice cream, and medications into consideration.

Nevertheless, keep in mind that, depending on where the cooling system and thermostat are located, the temperature inside the cooler may vary by a few degrees. The Kohree Portable Refrigerator, for instance, has a standard deviation of just 4 degrees.

Despite receiving four out of five stars from Amazon customers, some reviewers noted that the temperature varied by more than six degrees from the setting. ARB, Dometic, and National Luna coolers, which cost more but are of higher quality, will provide more accurate temperature control.

Cooling System

The cooler's temperature range capability is connected to temperature control. The two most popular types of electric coolers are compressor coolers and thermoelectric coolers. Because they offer a wider range of temperatures, all of the coolers on this list are compressor coolers.

Thermoelectric coolers can provide an average of 40 degrees of cooling capacity in comparison to the outside temperature and depend on the ambient temperature for their cooling mechanism. Contrarily, compressor coolers can maintain sub-freezing temperatures regardless of the surrounding temperature.

Thermoelectric coolers have the advantage of using less power, which reduces costs, but at a significant loss of functionality.

Price

Price ranges for electric coolers are incredibly wide, ranging from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. And in our experience, you get what you pay for.

Prices for similar features and sizes vary between top brands by only a few hundred dollars. A cooler's price will increase if it has features like improved durability and weather resistance.

On the cheap end of the spectrum, a plethora of Amazon products are available for a small portion of the cost of name brands. Although these coolers will work for the occasional weekend camper, they are typically much less durable and have inconsistent cooling capabilities.

It makes sense to spend more money on a cooler if you want something extremely durable that will last through some difficult times. ARB, National Luna, and Dometic are some of our favorite long-term investments.

Our suggestion for an inexpensive and practical cooler is the Kohree Portable Refrigerator if you're searching for a low-cost option without extras or frills.

Durability

Durability is a final feature that you shouldn't ignore. Many different materials, such as ABS plastic, metal composites, and steel casing, are used to make electric coolers. If you're going to spend a lot of money on an electric cooler, make sure it will be a wise purchase.

Depending on where you intend to take the cooler, you will need a certain level of durability. For instance, you'll need something that can withstand some bumps and bruises if it will be kept in the truck bed during an off-road excursion.

The ARB Zero's extreme corner moldings were specifically designed for you in this situation. Additionally, if you live in a rainy area or intend to store it outdoors, ARB's Element is a completely weatherproof electric cooler that might make sense.