Best Hard Coolers of 2025

Arlen Smith Avatar
Arlen Smith
Last Updated: Jan 17, 2025

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Hard coolers are a must-have for anyone who wants to keep their food and drinks cold while on the go. These coolers are designed to withstand the toughest of conditions and provide excellent insulation to keep your items cold for hours. They come in a range of sizes and styles to suit your needs, from small, portable coolers for a day trip to large, heavy-duty coolers for extended camping trips. Many hard coolers also feature additional features such as built-in cup holders, bottle openers, and even speakers for entertainment. With their durable construction and superior cooling capabilities, hard coolers are a reliable choice for any outdoor excursion.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Coleman 60qt Wheeled Insulated Cooler Cover #TOP 1
Coleman 60qt Wheeled Insulated Cooler
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Coleman 316 Series Wheeled Hard Coolers, 100qt Rock Grey Cover #TOP 2
Coleman 316 Series Wheeled Hard Coolers, 100qt Rock Grey
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Igloo Marine Flip and Tow - White, 90 qt Roller Cover #TOP 3
Igloo Marine Flip and Tow - White, 90 qt Roller
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Hard Coolers

#TOP 1

Coleman 60qt Wheeled Insulated Cooler

2160831
Ocean Blue
60 Quarts
Coleman 60qt Wheeled Insulated Cooler Cover
Coleman Chiller Series 60qt Wheeled Portable Cooler, Insulated Hard Cooler with Ice Retention & Heavy-Duty Wheels & Handle, Great for Camping, Tailgating, Beach, Picnic, Groceries, Boating & More

The Coleman Chiller Series 60qt Wheeled Insulated Portable Cooler is perfect for keeping your drinks ice cold. With TempLock insulation, it can hold up to 47 cans and 30 lbs. of ice. The recessed wheels and retractable handle with comfort grip make it easy to move around. Plus, it's made in the USA with global components.

What We Like
Great size
Keeps ice long time
Good quality
Easy to transport
Affordable price
What We Don't Like
Handle feels flimsy
Short for some users
#TOP 2

Coleman 316 Series Wheeled Hard Coolers, 100qt Rock Grey

3000006494
Rock Grey
100qt
Coleman 316 Series Wheeled Hard Coolers, 100qt Rock Grey Cover
Coleman Classic Series Insulated Portable Wheeled Cooler, Leak-Resistant Outdoor Hard Cooler Keeps Ice up to 5 Days, 62qt/65qt/100qt Options

The Coleman 316 Series Wheeled Hard Cooler is a perfect fit for your camping trip. The hard cooler is fully insulated, keeping the ice up to 5 days in temperatures as high as 90°F. It has heavy-duty wheels and durable tow & swing-up handles designed for easy transport, making it perfect for long hauls. The cup holders are molded into the lid to keep drinks from spilling and it even fits up to a 30-oz. tumbler. The closed lid supports up to 250 lbs. making it perfect for an extra seat. The Coleman 316 Series Wheeled Hard Cooler has a stain-resistant liner, making it easy to clean, and a leakproof channel drain plug.

What We Like
Excellent ice retention
Wheels and pull handle
Spacious interior
Durable construction
What We Don't Like
Plug failed after one year
Top lacks a locking mechanism
#TOP 3

Igloo Marine Flip and Tow - White, 90 qt Roller

00034734
90 QT
90 QT
Igloo Marine Flip and Tow - White, 90 qt Roller Cover
Igloo Marine Ultra Coolers, Insulated Portable Cooler Chest with Heavy Duty Handles, Leak-Proof Outdoor Hard Cooler, 5-day Ice Retention

The Igloo Marine Flip and Tow cooler is a versatile and convenient option for your camping needs. With oversized wheels, it offers all-terrain mobility, allowing you to easily transport your cooler over any surface. The comfort swing-up rear handle makes lifting and loading a breeze, reducing strain on your back. The hybrid latches ensure a secure lid closure, keeping your food and drinks safe and preventing any leaks. The oversize engineer-grade hinges with stay-open detent make accessing the contents of the cooler effortless. Additionally, the fully insulated body and lid provide 5-day performance, keeping your items cold for an extended period of time. With its durable construction and practical features, the Igloo Marine Flip and Tow cooler is a reliable choice for your camping adventures.

What We Like
Excellent insulation performance
Ample storage capacity
Easy to transport
Sturdy handle and wheels
Good price-to-value ratio
What We Don't Like
One wheel malfunctioned
Poor quality handle design
#TOP 4

RTIC Ultra-Light 52 Qt Hard Cooler

14922
Trailblazer
52 Quart
RTIC Ultra-Light 52 Qt Hard Cooler Cover
RTIC Ultra-Light 52 Quart Hard Cooler Insulated Portable Ice Chest Box for Beach, Drink, Beverage, Camping, Picnic, Fishing, Boat, Barbecue, 30% Lighter Than Rotomolded Coolers, Trailblazer

The RTIC Ultra-Light Hard Cooler 52 qt is a portable and durable insulated cooler designed to keep your food and beverages colder for longer with up to 3 inches of closed-cell foam insulation. With a capacity of 52 quarts, this cooler is 30% lighter than rotomolded coolers of the same capacity. It's perfect for camping, beach, barbecue, fishing, and more. The cooler can be carried by one person and doubles up as a bench, step stool, tabletop, or extra cutting board.

What We Like
Excellent insulation
Lightweight compared to competitors
Functional built-in features
Long-lasting ice retention
Available in fun colors
What We Don't Like
Higher price point
Inside space slightly smaller
#TOP 5

Igloo 25 Qt BMX Ice Chest Cooler

00050537
Rugged Blue
25 Qt
Igloo 25 Qt BMX Ice Chest Cooler Cover
Igloo Heavy-Duty 25 Qt BMX Ice Chest Cooler with Cool Riser Technology

The Igloo BMX Cooler is designed for durability and performance, making it an excellent choice for your outdoor adventures. Its heavy-duty construction ensures that it can withstand rough conditions, providing peace of mind during your trips. The extra-thick foam walls and insulated lid keep your ice intact for up to four days, even in warm temperatures. With secure rubberized lid latches, you can trust that your cooler will stay closed and keep the cold in. The triple-point grab handle, reinforced with stainless steel, offers a comfortable grip, making it easy to transport wherever you go.

What We Like
Durable construction
Excellent ice retention
Lightweight and portable
Affordable price
Secure latches
What We Don't Like
Absence of drain plug
Somewhat heavy
#TOP 6

Coleman Chiller Series 16qt Insulated Portable Cooler

2160833
Ocean
One Size
Coleman Chiller Series 16qt Insulated Portable Cooler Cover
Coleman Cooler—Chiller 16 Quart Portable Cooler

The Coleman Chiller Series 16qt Insulated Portable Cooler is a perfect solution for keeping your drinks ice cold with TempLock insulation. It features a large-grip bail handle that makes the cooler easy to carry with one hand. The smoother surface of the quick-clean top wipes down easily. You can hold up to 11 cans with 8 lbs. of ice. Plus, it is made in the USA.

What We Like
Great size for trips
Effective insulation
Lightweight and durable
Easy to clean
Affordable option
What We Don't Like
Handle could be sturdier
#TOP 7

Igloo Trailmate 25 Qt Cooler

50214
Bone
25 QT
Igloo Trailmate 25 Qt Cooler Cover
Igloo, Trailmate 25 Qt Cooler, Bone

The Igloo Trailmate Cooler is designed to enhance your outdoor experiences. Its extra-wide swing-up bail handle, featuring a diamond-textured grip, ensures a secure and comfortable hold, making it easy to carry. The heavy-duty blow-molded construction adds durability, ensuring it withstands the rigors of camping trips. With 1.5-inch thick foam-insulated walls and lid, this cooler keeps your ice frozen for longer, so you can enjoy cold drinks all day. Additionally, the Cool Riser Technology elevates the cooler away from hot surfaces, improving cooling efficiency and keeping your items fresh.

What We Like
Excellent ice retention
Sturdy and well-made
Perfect size for various needs
Versatile use beyond cooling
Cost-effective compared to competitors
What We Don't Like
Smaller than some expected
Perceived as somewhat expensive
#TOP 8

Titan Deep Freeze Cooler

5-97091-50-0E
Sharkskin Gray
9 Can
Titan Deep Freeze Cooler Cover
Titan Deep Freeze Cooler - 9 Can Zipperless Hardbody Cooler - Deep Freeze Insulation, HardBody Liner, and SmartShelf - Sharkskin Gray

The Titan Zipperless Cooler is designed for quick access and maximum convenience. Its innovative zipperless lid allows you to grab your food and drinks without fumbling with zippers, making it perfect for outdoor activities like tailgating or picnics. With Deep Freeze Performance Insulation, it keeps your items cold for up to two days, ensuring your beverages stay refreshing. The removable HardBody liner features a SmartShelf that separates hard and soft items, preventing your sandwiches from getting squished. Plus, the adjustable shoulder strap offers comfortable carrying, making it easy to transport wherever you go.

What We Like
Great insulation and cooling
Easy access and storage
Durable and high-quality materials
Versatile for various activities
Affordable price point
What We Don't Like
Side zipper quality issues
Limited color options
#TOP 9

RTIC Ultra-Light 32 Quart Cooler

Dark Grey/Cool Grey
32 Quart
RTIC Ultra-Light 32 Quart Cooler Cover
RTIC Ultra-Light 32 Quart Hard Cooler Insulated Portable Ice Chest Box for Drink, Beverage, Beach, Camping, Picnic, Fishing, Boat, Barbecue, 30% Lighter Than Rotomolded Coolers, Dark Grey/Cool Grey

The RTIC Ultra-Light Cooler is designed to be 30% lighter than traditional coolers, making it easier for you to carry on your outdoor adventures. With 2.5 inches of insulation, this cooler ensures your drinks stay cold for a long time. Its durability and portability make it perfect for camping, picnics, beach trips, and more. The 32-quart capacity allows you to carry up to 48 cans or 30lbs of ice. Whether you need a cooler for drinks, beer, or food, the RTIC Ultra-Light Cooler is versatile and convenient for all your needs.

What We Like
Effective insulation
Durable build quality
Good for long trips
Affordable compared to competitors
Convenient size for storage
What We Don't Like
Handles may pinch fingers
#TOP 10

Coleman 48qt Insulated Portable Cooler

2164932
Ocean Blue
One Size
Coleman 48qt Insulated Portable Cooler Cover
Coleman Cooler—Chiller 48 Quart Cooler

The Coleman Chiller Series 48qt Insulated Portable Cooler is perfect for camping and outdoor activities. With TempLock insulation, it keeps your drinks ice cold for a long time. The 2-way handles make it easy to lift and move around, and they fold down to save space. The cooler is tall enough to fit 2-liter bottles upright, preventing spills. It holds up to 31 cans and 24 lbs. of ice, so there's enough space for everyone. Plus, it's made in the USA.

What We Like
Excellent ice retention
Durable construction
Affordable price
Spacious interior
Easy to clean
What We Don't Like
No drain plug
Can be heavy
Buying Guide Image

Factors to Consider when Choosing a Hard Cooler

Capacity

Consider the size and capacity of the cooler based on your specific needs. Determine how much food and drinks you typically need to store and choose a cooler that can accommodate that volume. Keep in mind that larger coolers may be heavier and more challenging to transport.

Insulation

Good insulation is crucial in keeping your items cold for an extended period. Look for coolers with thick insulation and a tight sealing lid to minimize heat transfer. The insulation material should be durable and able to maintain low temperatures even in hot weather conditions.

Durability

A high-quality hard cooler should be built to withstand rugged outdoor use. Look for coolers made from durable materials like rotomolded plastic or heavy-duty polyethylene. Consider coolers with reinforced corners, sturdy latches, and hinges that can withstand frequent opening and closing.

Portability

Consider the weight and design of the cooler for ease of transportation. Look for coolers with comfortable, ergonomic handles and options for additional features like wheels or shoulder straps. A portable cooler makes it easier to carry during outdoor activities or when traveling.

Ice Retention

Check the ice retention capabilities of the cooler. Look for coolers that can keep ice frozen for an extended period, as this ensures your items stay cold for longer durations. Insulation thickness and design play a significant role in ice retention, so choose a cooler that excels in this aspect.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are hard-sided coolers better?

Both hard and soft-side coolers have their pros and cons. Hard coolers are more durable, provide better insulation performance, and often come with more features. However, they can be heavier and bulkier compared to soft-side coolers. On the other hand, soft-side coolers are lighter, more compact, and less expensive.

2. What type of cooler keeps ice the longest?

Hard-sided coolers generally have longer ice retention and are more durable. They can keep ice for up to 7 days or more, depending on the quality of the cooler. Soft-sided coolers, on the other hand, are lightweight and easy to carry, making them a convenient choice for shorter trips or outings.

3. How long does ice last in a hard cooler?

Ice can last from 12 hours to 7 days in a cooler, depending on the type of cooler. Premium hard coolers have the longest ice retention, lasting up to 7 days or more. However, some soft and styrofoam coolers may only keep ice for less than 24 hours. In general, most hard coolers can keep ice for 2 to 6 days.

4. Do hard coolers stay cold longer?

Yes, hard coolers tend to stay cold longer compared to soft-side coolers. The extra thickness of the walls and lid in hard-sided coolers offers superior insulation, which helps in keeping the contents cold. While soft-sided coolers can provide insulation for several hours, a good hard-sided cooler can keep ice from melting for a few days.

Editor's Notes

During our hard cooler research, we found 24 hard cooler products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 392,778 customer reviews through our big data system to write the hard coolers list. We found that most customers choose hard coolers with an average price of $70.40.

The hard coolers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of hard coolers, including Coleman, Igloo, RTIC, Titan by Arctic Zone. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Arlen Smith Avatar

Arlen Smith is a writer and a surfer who lives in Los Angeles, he runs a popular blog that focuses on surfing skills and popular surf spots around the world. He enjoys the sun, the beach and the feeling of surfing. His expertise ranges from categories such as climbing, swimming, boating and outdoor sports.

Hard Coolers Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Coleman Coleman Igloo RTIC Igloo Coleman Igloo Titan by Arctic Zone RTIC Coleman
Color Ocean Blue Rock Grey 90 QT Trailblazer Rugged Blue Ocean Bone Sharkskin Gray Dark Grey/Cool Grey Ocean Blue
Material Polyurethane (PU) Plastic Plastic Plastic Plastic Plastic Plastic Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Plastic Plastic
Package Information Box Box Box Box Box Cans Bucket Can Box Box
Capacity 60 Quarts 1E+2 Quarts 90 Quarts 52 Quarts 0.5 Gallons 16 Quarts 25 Quarts 6 Quarts 32 Quarts 48 Quarts
Special Feature Wheeled Wheeled Wheeled Insulated Insulated Insulated,Portable Portable Portable, Insulated Insulated Portable
Recommended Uses For Product Camping Picnic Camping Fishing Camping Camping Outdoor Activities - Camping Camping
Item Weight 11.4 Pounds 20.37 Pounds - 21 Pounds 9.8 Pounds 3.6 Pounds 10.8 Pounds 1.7 Pounds 13 Pounds -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
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