The 10 Best Electric Coolers of 2024

In the ever-evolving world of outdoor adventures, having a reliable cooler is a game-changer. An electric cooler is often the lifeline to keep food and drinks from spoiling during a camping holiday or day trip.

The new generation of electric coolers not only keeps your beverages and perishables chilled but does so with a sustainable edge. They are designed to function seamlessly with the power outlets of your vehicle or even solar panels, making them a boon for both avid travelers and eco-conscious consumers.

In this guide, we’re going review the top 10 best electric coolers of 2024, each boasting its own unique set of features and benefits. Whether you’re an off-road enthusiast, a camper, or a weekend warrior, there’s a cooler on this list that’s adapted to your specific needs.

Best Electric Coolers of 2024

Our favorite electric cooler is Mobicool MM24. It is slim and designed for 1.5-liter bottles. This model ensures high cooling performance with a wide range of temperature settings.

Comparison table of the 10 best electric coolers in 2024…

Best Overall – Mobicool Mm24 Dc Cool Box (Blue)

Best Portable Electric Cooler – Wagan EL6206 12V Personal

Best Value for the Money – Mobicool W40 Thermoelectric Cooler

1. Mobicool Mm24 Dc Cool Box (New Version)

Mobicool MM24 DC is one of the most compact 12 V electric coolers on the market. Thanks to two different connections, it can be operated both in the car and with a regular power supply. If you opt for the mains connection, you can regulate the temperature individually. This idea doesn’t work for cars.

Its extra narrow design fits behind the driver or passenger seat of cars, making it the ideal companion for road trips and days out. If there is no electricity for a few hours, the box continues to cool thanks to the thick insulation. If you add ice packs, it keeps the temperature low very well.

It has three programs: Eco, Min and Max, which allow power consumption to be regulated. The detachable lid is completely removed for easy loading. Overall, if you’re in search of a versatile and compact electric cooler, this model is an excellent choice.

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2. Mobicool W40 Electric Cool Box

Mobicool W40 cooler box keeps your food fresh at up to 18 degrees Celsius below ambient temperature. With its wheels and extendable handle, transporting this cooler is a breeze. The box has a divided lid so that not too much cold escapes.

It has two removable separating grids, which ensure order inside. For high flexibility, the cooler box has 12-volt and 230-volt connections. However, we didn’t find any power consumption information.

The W40 thermoelectric cooler is quiet compared to the Mobicool Mm24 DC Cool Box. It doesn’t have moving parts, which can generate more noise. It has a cable compartment in the lid. After use, the cable is placed in the compartment provided.

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3. Dometic BordBar AS 25

BordBar AS 25 cooler box is a compact and portable cooling solution, making it popular among travelers, campers, and people who spend vacation time on the road. You can store small items or food, that do not need to be refrigerated, in storage pockets mounted on the outside. Although it is small, two liters of bottles fit in perfectly.

It operates on both 12V DC and 230V AC power sources. This means you can plug it into your car’s cigarette lighter socket while driving, and then switch it to a regular electrical outlet when you’re at home or a campsite. The existing automatic switching between the two power connections is also practical.

Overall, if you’re seeking a small electric cooler with shoulder straps for easy carrying, this model is worth considering. However, it’s important to note that the BordBar AS 25 model lacks adjustable programs.

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4. Dometic TropiCool TC35

If you are looking for an energy-saving cooler box, we recommend the Dometic TropiCool TC35 electric cooler. It can not only be cool but also warm. To facilitate this, it offers fourteen setting options, all conveniently displayed on the LED screen. Moreover, the last setting is automatically saved for added convenience.

It is equipped with four connections, so you’re ready for use in every situation. Therefore, this cooler can also be used in a boat or truck. Despite its good cooling and heating performance, it has the energy efficiency class A++.

It has 33 liters capacity, which is enough to store a good amount of food and drinks for a day out or a short trip. When warming up, it reaches temperatures between 50 and 65 degrees Celsius. When cooling, temperatures between 1 and 15 degrees Celsius can be set. It also has foldable side handles for easy transport.

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5. Zorn® Z32 I Electric Cooler Box

If you’re looking for a medium-sized cooling box for versatile use, the Zorn® Z32 I electric cooler is an excellent choice. With two connections available, this cooler can be used both in the car and in a holiday home or at the campsite, offering flexibility in its usage.

The box has a good energy efficiency class and still impresses with a high cooling capacity. Then 2-liter bottles fit the upright position. The slim design ensures that the box fits behind a car seat. The lid can be fixed for easy loading. 

The Z32 I is known for its quiet operation, making it suitable for use in confined spaces like a car. It comes with an adjustable thermostat that allows you to set the desired temperature within a certain range. When the cooler box is not in use, you can conveniently hide the cables in the included compartment.

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6. Wagan EL6206 (Cooler with Warmer)

The Wagan EL6206 electric cooler utilizes a compressor, enabling you to set the desired temperature as needed. This is achieved through the integrated control panel, with the settings displayed on a small screen. To ensure versatility in various situations, the cooler is equipped with a 12V connection.

Wagan electric cooler is intentionally designed for short trips or personal use. The lid with integrated cup holders is practical. The Included adjustable nylon carrying strap ensures easy transport when loaded.

Additionally, the integrated USB port functions as a power bank when the cooler is connected to a power supply. It is a practical cooling/heating box with a lightweight design and an optional AC power adapter. It has a power consumption of 48 watts.

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7. AEG Thermoelectric Cooler for Car

The AEG electric cooler box stands out with its exceptionally long cable and low power consumption, making it a practical choice. It is versatile, suitable for use both in vehicles and with a regular power connection. The noise level is acceptable while driving.

Furthermore, the cooler is highly robust and well-constructed. When the cooler is not connected to the power supply, the cables can be neatly stowed away in the designated compartment, maintaining a tidy appearance. The cable itself measures 220 cm.

It has a 14-liter food capacity, making it suitable for 2-liter bottles as well. It is effortless to use with a 230-volt connection. For added effectiveness, it’s recommended to include 2 ice packs during the initial use to enhance cooling performance. For keeping food warm during travel, the cooler can heat up to 65°C.

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8. VEVOR T53 Cooler with Warming Function

Severin cooling box offers good cooling performance and a warming function. Food at up to 60 degrees Celsius stays warm. A small display shows which function is currently active.

It is well-made and robust, cools very well, and offers plenty of space. The placeholder in the lid is very nice so that a 1-liter bottle fits perfectly. The eco function, with which we operate the box at night, is great. Although the electric cooler generally consumes little power, the power consumption is further reduced in Eco mode.

It has a 12 Volt and a 230 Volt connection so you can use it everywhere. Both cables neatly fit into the cable compartment when the box is not in use.

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9. Alpicool K25 Mini Freezer

If you are looking for a powerful and functional electric cooler for your next camping, you can choose the Alpicool K25. Thanks to its very high cooling capacity, it can be used as a mini fridge.

The manufacturer equipped the box with two power connections. It is built with a temperature memory function and 3 different levels for battery protection: Low, Medium and High. If the cooler is used in the car, the battery monitor prevents the car battery from being drained.

If desired, you can charge your smartphone via the integrated USB port. The desired temperature can be easily set, and the box automatically switches off once it reaches the set temperature. The lid stays open automatically for quick filling, while two handles on the side facilitate easy carrying.

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10. Mobicool T08 Thermoelectric Cooler

Finally, we come to our last but certainly not least contender on this top 10 list. This is a portable electric cooler from Mobicool. The box can be connected to the cigarette lighter in the car so that the food and drinks stay cool until you reach your camping destination. Thanks to the shoulder strap, it is perfect for outings.

Mobicool T08 Thermoelectric Cooler Box is neatly finished with a chic design. The two cup holders, which can also be used when the lid is closed, are practical. The lid can be opened with the cans inserted. Apart from good cooling performance, this model can keep hot food warm.

It is very quiet. The power consumption of around 3 amps is lower than with the larger cooler boxes. However, it doesn’t have a voltage monitor, so you have to look out for your car battery. You can also use the box as a mini refrigerator, although it may not perform as efficiently as your domestic fridge.

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What Needs to be Considered When Buying Electric Coolers?

When buying an electric cooler, consider the following factors:

Size

Size is only indirectly related to volume. Small dimensions ensure that the electric cooler box fits behind the front car seats or can be stored between the luggage in the trunk. The height of the box is important. 1.5 or 2 liters bottles can only be stored upright if the height is sufficient.

Electric cooler usually protrudes quite far into the box, which is why there are often considerable differences between the outer and inner dimensions. For this reason, the internal dimensions should always be prioritized.

Volume

Make a list of the items you typically store in a cooler, such as beverages, perishable foods, snacks, and ice packs. Consider the quantity of each item you typically need for a day or a specific trip.

A volume of 10 or 20 liters is sufficient for single people. Families should opt for at least 30 liters.  Electric camping coolers with partitions enable organized storage of food and drinks.

Cooling capacity

The cooling capacity depends on the type of cooling. Electric cooler boxes are divided into two categories:

• Thermoelectric cooler boxes: These devices can only achieve a certain cooling capacity depending on the ambient temperature. Some models can cool up to 20 degrees and others only be up to 10 degrees below the ambient temperature. For spring and autumn, this power is enough, but not for summer.
• Devices with compressor: Devices with a compressor reach the desired temperature you will set. High-quality cooler boxes achieve temperatures of up to -20 degrees Celsius. If the devices have a heating function, food can be kept warm at up to 60 degrees. Electric coolers with compressors are the first choice when the outside temperatures are very high.

Exterior Shell

The exterior shell should be durable, resistant to impact, and capable of withstanding outdoor conditions. Common materials for the exterior shell include:

• High-density polyethylene (HDPE): Lightweight, durable, and resistant to impact. It’s commonly used in portable coolers.
  Metal (such as stainless steel or aluminum): Provides durability and a premium look but may add weight to the cooler.
  ABS plastic: Offers a balance of durability and cost-effectiveness. It’s commonly used in mid-range coolers.

Weight

If you want to use your electric cooler for a day trip, make sure that the box weighs very little. Takeaway food and drinks also have a very high weight. In this way, total weight is reached very quickly that is no longer comfortable to carry during transport.

Keep in mind, compressor coolers always weigh more than thermoelectric models.

Power sources

Determine how you’ll power the electric cooler. Most models can be powered by a standard AC outlet or a 12-volt DC outlet (such as a car’s cigarette lighter socket). If you plan to use the cooler in your vehicle, ensure it’s compatible with your vehicle’s power supply and consider whether it has energy-saving features to prevent draining your vehicle’s battery.

Power consumption

Power consumption affects operating costs. The better the energy efficiency class, the lower the cost of the cooler box during your camping holiday. Some manufacturers indicate the energy efficiency class, while others list the consumption in watts. With devices featuring the Eco program, individuals have the flexibility to determine the power consumption based on their specific situations.

Handling

Depending on the model, electric coolers offer different handling methods:

• Simple electric coolers: These require no special handling. Simply open the lid and fill the box. To prolong the cooling of food and drinks, it’s advisable to pre-chill them. Ice packs can also extend the cooling time and lower the temperature.
• Electric coolers with compressors: These models offer various setting options, which can be conveniently adjusted via a control panel. A display often indicates the settings, allowing for quick recognition of whether the device includes a warming function and whether it’s activated.
• Small electric coolers: Many small electric coolers feature exterior pockets for storing small items, such as non-perishable food items that don’t require refrigeration.
• Coolers with split lids: Coolers equipped with split lids are preferable. The smaller opening helps to retain cold air more effectively, thereby increasing cooling efficiency.

Security

Safety features are generally found in compressor coolers:

• Battery monitor: This feature ensures that the battery doesn’t discharge excessively, preserving its lifespan.
• Automatic switch-off: Compressor coolers often include an automatic switch-off function, shutting down the cooler once the set temperature is reached to prevent overcooling.
• Automatic switching: Many devices are designed to switch automatically when a different power source is used, ensuring seamless operation.
• Power bank function: Some models are equipped with a USB port, functioning as a power bank to charge smartphones or other electronic devices, adding to their convenience.

Noise level

When planning to use the cooler in quiet environments, it’s essential to consider the noise level. Thermoelectric coolers generally produce less noise compared to compressor-based models.

Area of ​​application

The original concept behind electric coolers was to provide a solution for trips or camping holidays. However, these devices have found their way into homes as well, serving as supplementary refrigeration units or providing extra cooling space.

Moreover, electric coolers can also serve as storage for medicines. These compact devices are suitable for hand luggage during travel. They can also be indispensable on outdoor trips where constant access to medication is essential.

FAQs:

How cold does an electric cooler get?

The cooling capacity of an electric cooler can vary depending on factors such as the model, size, and ambient temperature. On average, electric coolers can achieve temperatures ranging from approximately 40°F (4°C) below the ambient temperature to as low as 0°F (-18°C) in some high-performance models.

However, thermoelectric coolers have limited cooling capabilities compared to compressor-based models, and their cooling efficiency may be affected by factors such as the insulation quality and power source.

How long does an electric cooler take to get cold?

Generally, electric coolers can begin to cool within 30 minutes to an hour after being powered on. However, it may take several hours to reach the desired temperature, especially if the cooler is filled with warm items or if operating in high ambient temperatures.

How long can you run an electric cooler?

The manufacturers specify a maximum running time for the electric cool box. This should not be exceeded, otherwise, the box will heat up and a defect cannot be ruled out. Electric coolers are usually not suitable for continuous operation.

Can electric coolers also heat food or beverages?

As you have seen in our ranking, some electric coolers have a heating function, which allows users to warm food or beverages. This is particularly useful for keeping dishes warm during transportation.

Do electric coolers have adjustable temperature settings?

Many electric coolers offer adjustable temperature settings, allowing you to set the desired cooling or heating level based on your needs.

How much does a good electric cooler cost?

Good electric coolers can be purchased cheaply for less than 100 dollars. There are no upper limits. High-quality electric cool boxes can also be bought at a low price as part of offers.

Conclusion

A high-quality electric cooler performs its function reliably, ensuring that stored food remains fresh and safe to consume. It’s crucial to match the cooler’s capacity with your intended usage and ensure that the power source meets your requirements.

Our comprehensive comparison analysis of the best electric coolers for 2024 aims to assist you in finding your preferred model. Additionally, be sure to follow our buying guide to narrow down the options and choose the most suitable cooler for your needs.

If you have any questions or require further assistance, please feel free to leave a comment below. We’re here to help!