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10 Best Electric Ice Coolers 2026 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0  score

Dometic CFX3 35 Portable Refrigerator and Freezer - 36L - Powered by AC/DC or Solar Portable Refrigerator, Smokey Gray

Capacity: 36 Liters
Power Source: AC, DC, or solar
Cooling Performance: Refrigerates to –7 °F
Portability: 37 Pounds
Energy Efficiency: Quite efficient for cooling power
Durability: Rugged ExoFrame and aluminum handles

Chosen by 1293 this week

Dometic CFX5 35 Liter Portable Refrigerator and Freezer, Powered by AC/DC

Capacity: 35 Liters
Power Source: AC and DC power
Cooling Performance: VMSO 3.5 compressor, insulated panels
Portability: 17.2 Kg, weatherproof, durable design
Energy Efficiency: decent compressor fridge efficiency
Durability: weatherproof, durable exoframe design
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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Dometic CFX3 35 Portable Refrigerator and Freezer - 36L - Powered by AC/DC or Solar Portable Refrigerator, Smokey Gray

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,293
Cooling Performance
Portability
Durability

Most important from
665 reviews

Cooling Performance
Maintains temperature settings reliably, with one compartment effectively used as a freezer keeping food frozen throughout.
Portability
The cooler fits well in tight spaces, such as an RV slide tray, demonstrating thoughtful design for various outdoor applications.
Durability
Robust and well-made construction that justifies the higher price, delivering solid durability and quality.

The Dometic CFX3 35 is a solid choice if you need a portable electric cooler with a 36-liter capacity, suitable for camping, fishing, or picnics. Its cooling system is impressive, capable of refrigeration and deep freezing down to –7 °F without needing ice, thanks to an advanced compressor. It offers dual-zone compartments with independent temperature controls, which is handy if you want to keep different items chilled or frozen at the same time.

You can power it through AC, DC, or solar, making it flexible for outdoor use, and it includes a smart battery protection system to avoid draining your vehicle’s battery. The cooler’s rugged ExoFrame build and aluminum handles make it durable and able to handle rough conditions, though it weighs 37 pounds, so while portable, it’s not super lightweight for solo carrying over long distances. Energy-wise, it’s quite efficient given the cooling power, and you can control and monitor it easily via a smartphone app or the built-in display.

The price is higher compared to simpler coolers, and its plastic outer material means it needs careful handling to avoid scratches or damage. If you want a reliable, tech-savvy cooler with strong performance and versatile power options, this model fits well, especially if you value smart features and durability for outdoor adventures.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,293
Cooling Performance
Portability
Durability

Most important from
665 reviews

Cooling Performance
Maintains temperature settings reliably, with one compartment effectively used as a freezer keeping food frozen throughout.
Portability
The cooler fits well in tight spaces, such as an RV slide tray, demonstrating thoughtful design for various outdoor applications.
Durability
Robust and well-made construction that justifies the higher price, delivering solid durability and quality.
#2

BougeRV 12 Volt Refrigerator 12V Car Fridge 30 Quart Portable Freezer Compressor Cooler Compressor Freezer, 12/24V DC 110~240V AC, -8℉~50℉ for Truck RV SUV (Black)

Rating
8.2
Capacity
Power Source
Cooling Performance

Most important from
2963 reviews

Capacity
Creating a cooler/freezer combo using the center divider works effectively, keeping beer cold and frozen items solid.
Power Source
Using the 12V car outlet is seamless, and the fridge’s energy efficiency ensures it doesn’t drain the car battery, even on long trips.
Cooling Performance
Switching from a cooler with ice to the BougeRV 12 Volt Refrigerator has been a game-changer; it cools quickly and maintains a consistent temperature without the need for ice.
Portability
The BougeRV fridge’s lightweight and portability make it easy to move in and out of vehicles, ideal for road trips and camping.
Energy Efficiency
Its low power consumption in ECO mode is impressive, drawing only 36 watts while keeping food at the set temperature and hardly cycling.
Durability
It's a durable and reliable investment for anyone needing extra cooling space for camping or road trips.

The BougeRV 12 Volt Refrigerator is a portable cooler with a 30-quart capacity, making it suitable for storing a decent amount of food and beverages. Its compressor refrigeration technology ensures fast cooling, capable of dropping temperatures from 77℉ to 32℉ in just 15 minutes and down to -5℉ in 50 minutes, which is excellent for keeping your food fresh without needing ice. It operates on both 12/24V DC and 110~240V AC, making it versatile for use in various vehicles like trucks, RVs, and SUVs.

The low power consumption (45W on MAX mode) and ECO energy-saving mode make it energy-efficient, consuming less than 1kWh/day, which is great for extended trips without worrying about draining too much power. It also features a quiet operation (45dB) and a shock-proof design, adding to its convenience for long drives and off-road adventures. The 3-level voltage battery protection ensures your vehicle's battery doesn't get drained, which is a thoughtful feature. However, it does require manual defrosting.

Rating
8.2
Capacity
Power Source
Cooling Performance

Most important from
2963 reviews

Capacity
Creating a cooler/freezer combo using the center divider works effectively, keeping beer cold and frozen items solid.
Power Source
Using the 12V car outlet is seamless, and the fridge’s energy efficiency ensures it doesn’t drain the car battery, even on long trips.
Cooling Performance
Switching from a cooler with ice to the BougeRV 12 Volt Refrigerator has been a game-changer; it cools quickly and maintains a consistent temperature without the need for ice.
Portability
The BougeRV fridge’s lightweight and portability make it easy to move in and out of vehicles, ideal for road trips and camping.
Energy Efficiency
Its low power consumption in ECO mode is impressive, drawing only 36 watts while keeping food at the set temperature and hardly cycling.
Durability
It's a durable and reliable investment for anyone needing extra cooling space for camping or road trips.
#3

EUHOMY 12 Volt Refrigerator, 37QT(35L) Electric Cooler, Portable Freezer 12V/24V DC 100-240V AC, 12V Fridge -4℉~68℉, 12V Cooler with Wheels & 2 Baskets for Travel, Truck, Boat, Camping

Rating
7.6
Power Source
Cooling Performance
Portability

Most important from
508 reviews

Power Source
A longer 12V power cord would improve convenience since vehicle outlets are often positioned far from where the cooler is placed.
Cooling Performance
The cooler chills quickly and maintains accurate temperatures, reliably keeping drinks cold even when external conditions vary.
Portability
Portability features like wheels and handles help with transport, but the unit is still heavy when fully loaded and requires some lifting effort.
Energy Efficiency
Its quiet operation and low power consumption make it efficient for extended use on trips, with an estimated 15-30 watts per hour depending on conditions.
Durability
The compressor is robust and quiet under normal conditions, though a faulty unit can be noticeably loud and requires replacement.

The EUHOMY 12 Volt Refrigerator is a solid choice for those needing a portable electric cooler with a decent-sized capacity of 35 liters (37 quarts), making it suitable for road trips, camping, or boating. It is powered by 12/24V DC or 110-240V AC, allowing use in vehicles or at home, which adds flexibility. Its cooling performance is strong, thanks to a powerful compressor that can chill down to -4°F and warm up to 68°F, offering both freezer and fridge functions. The dual-zone design with two baskets and a divider helps keep food organized and reduces odor mixing.

Portability is well thought out with dual handles and rugged wheels, making it easier to move even when fully loaded. It also operates quietly and is designed to handle rough terrain with an anti-shock system. In terms of energy efficiency, it is UL energy certified and offers an ECO mode to save power, plus battery protection features to avoid draining your vehicle’s battery. Durability is enhanced with wear-resistant materials and frost-free operation, so you don’t have to worry about ice buildup.

One drawback is its weight—at over 30 pounds, it’s not the lightest cooler, which might be a consideration if you need something ultra-light. While the capacity is good for medium-sized trips, larger groups or longer trips might require a bigger unit. Its user-friendly LCD panel and silent operation add convenience, making it a reliable option for those who want a versatile, efficient portable fridge/freezer without complicated setup.

Rating
7.6
Power Source
Cooling Performance
Portability

Most important from
508 reviews

Power Source
A longer 12V power cord would improve convenience since vehicle outlets are often positioned far from where the cooler is placed.
Cooling Performance
The cooler chills quickly and maintains accurate temperatures, reliably keeping drinks cold even when external conditions vary.
Portability
Portability features like wheels and handles help with transport, but the unit is still heavy when fully loaded and requires some lifting effort.
Energy Efficiency
Its quiet operation and low power consumption make it efficient for extended use on trips, with an estimated 15-30 watts per hour depending on conditions.
Durability
The compressor is robust and quiet under normal conditions, though a faulty unit can be noticeably loud and requires replacement.

Buying Guide for the Best Electric Ice Coolers

Choosing the right electric ice cooler can make a big difference in your outdoor adventures, road trips, or even just keeping your groceries cool on the way home. Electric ice coolers are a convenient way to keep your food and drinks cold without the need for ice. To find the best fit for you, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they align with your needs. Here are some important specs to consider when selecting an electric ice cooler.
CapacityCapacity refers to the amount of space inside the cooler, usually measured in quarts or liters. This spec is important because it determines how much you can store inside the cooler. Small coolers (up to 20 quarts) are great for personal use or short trips. Medium coolers (20-40 quarts) are suitable for small families or day trips. Large coolers (40+ quarts) are ideal for extended trips or larger groups. Consider how much you typically need to store and choose a capacity that fits your needs.
Power SourceElectric ice coolers can be powered in different ways, such as through a car's 12V DC outlet, a standard 110V AC outlet, or even solar power. This spec is important because it affects where and how you can use the cooler. If you plan to use the cooler primarily in your vehicle, a 12V DC option is essential. For home use or places with electrical outlets, a 110V AC option is convenient. Some coolers offer dual power options for versatility. Choose a power source that matches your intended use.
Cooling PerformanceCooling performance indicates how well the cooler can maintain a low temperature. This is usually measured in terms of how many degrees below ambient temperature the cooler can achieve. High-performance coolers can cool down to 40°F or more below ambient temperature, which is important for keeping perishable items safe. Moderate performance coolers might cool 20-30°F below ambient temperature, suitable for drinks and snacks. Consider what you need to keep cool and choose a cooler with the appropriate cooling performance.
PortabilityPortability refers to how easy it is to transport the cooler. This includes factors like weight, handles, wheels, and overall design. This spec is important if you plan to move the cooler frequently or over long distances. Lightweight coolers with comfortable handles or wheels are easier to carry. If you need to transport the cooler over rough terrain, look for durable wheels and sturdy construction. Consider how and where you will be using the cooler to determine the level of portability you need.
Energy EfficiencyEnergy efficiency measures how much power the cooler uses to maintain its temperature. This spec is important because it affects how long you can run the cooler on a given power source, such as a car battery or portable generator. More energy-efficient coolers will use less power, which is beneficial for extended use. Look for coolers with energy-saving features like eco modes or better insulation. Consider how long you need the cooler to run and choose one with the appropriate energy efficiency.
DurabilityDurability refers to how well the cooler can withstand wear and tear. This spec is important if you plan to use the cooler in rugged environments or for extended periods. Durable coolers are made from high-quality materials and have features like reinforced corners, strong latches, and robust handles. If you need a cooler for camping, off-roading, or other demanding activities, choose one with high durability. Consider the conditions in which you will use the cooler and select one that can handle those challenges.

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