For a control, we loaded the top-ranked model from our review of the best coolers, the ORCA – 40 Quart Classic, with 20 pounds of ice and checked its temperature at the same time. The coolers were running off of household electrical power for this test, which required the use of adapters not included with most coolers. Adding igloo electric cooler frozen gel packs can help level the playing field between electric and regular coolers, but of course that still requires you to have access to a freezer. For the sizes that we tested, manufacturers rated the cooler performance at 40 degrees lower than the temperature outside the cooler, but that assumes a lot of things.
You will receive a shipping confirmation e-mail once your order has shipped. The e-mail will provide your tracking number and link to the shipping carriers tracking page. The Igloo is the only cooler that we tested which fits comfortably between the front seats of our tester’s minivan, but that’s not enough to make it a good buy.
This thermoelectric cooler can be connected to 12V in your car or truck, which is great for travel. The electric cooler comes with a 12V cigarette lighter socket, without a 220V/230V adapter. For a larger capacity cooler that’s still easy to move, the Igloo Thermoelectric IcelessElectric Plug-in 12V Cooler is our choice. The key to its mobility is a set of igloo electric cooler wheels that allow the unit to be easily pulled from place to place without needing to fully pick it up. Like our other thermoelectric picks, this unit has the power to keep the contents about 30 degrees below outside temperature, and it works best when the contents are pre-chilled. In our review of the best coolers, we detail the nature of these products.
When surrounded with ice, perishables are protected from heat for two or three days. So long as your food is in a waterproof container, even melted ice will typically keep food at safe temperatures for another day or so. The coolers we tested are designed to only use 5 amps of 12-volt power, which is about the same draw as one headlight. That’s low enough that it won’t kill your battery over a short stop. With the smallest internal capacity and the lowest price, the Igloo – Iceless 28 Quart cooler was also able to get our test lunch to the lowest temperature on an overcast summer day. The Igloo was truly freezing cold at 25.9 degrees on a 65-degree afternoon.
If you just want to keep your beverages at a more refreshing temperature without dealing with ice, it’ll do just fine. If you want to pack this with food and take it to a party, make sure you carefully pack the most perishable items next to a frozen water bottle or ice pack. Wagan is aiming at the budget price bracket, but they haven’t skimped on features. With wheels, divider shelves, and a drain, this is one of the better-designed coolers we tested. Its color display and buttons are easy to use, allowing fast adjustments to both zones of the dual-zoned unit.
These numbers are comparable to a light rain or quiet office space. Use the AC or DC cable (both included) to plug in and power up. Our top picks ensure your perishable food items stay perfectly chilled for the long haul. If you’re interested in accessing Newegg API service, please submit a request. If you’re not happy with your purchase for any reason, our flexible 30-day free return policy makes it easy to get a full refund. We offer free expedited shipping on thousands of items within the continental USA (this does not include Alaska and Hawaii).