enter value/s in increments of 1 between 69 and 629
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Size
We group the coolers into three size categories: medium (41–60L), large (61–80L) and extra large (81L and over). The bigger the cooler, the more ice it can fit and the longer it will keep its cool, but make sure your new cooler will fit in your vehicle before you super size. We haven't included small models (40L and under) as coolers of that size are usually only for short-term use and with their relatively low thermal mass, don't perform very well.
Claimed volume (L)
enter value/s in increments of i between 40 and 157
Weight, empty (kg)
The weight of the cooler when empty. For lab-tested models this is the weight we measure; for the rest it is the manufacturer's claimed weight. Some models do not state their weight.
enter value/s in increments of i between 3 and 18
CHOICE lab tested
Most models are assessed by visual inspection, as our testers can tell through experience how a cooler will perform by looking at how it has been constructed. However, some models undergo rigorous lab testing to verify the visual assessments or to evaluate models whose construction can't be determined by inspection alone.
Wheels
Wheels and a pull handle make moving a heavy, loaded cooler on smooth surfaces much easier than carrying it.
Secure clasps
Clasps, latches and lids should be easy to open and close. One-handed types are easier for general use. Watch out for some hinged type lids that can cause the cooler to tip over when it's empty.
Flat top
A flat top means you can use your cooler as a table without your drinks rolling off, or as an extra seat.
Baskets
Baskets and/or partitions make it easier to sort through the cooler and organise your space.
Padlock space
Padlock loops or holes allow the lid to be locked shut, or for the cooler to be secured in place. This is important if your cooler will be left unattended (in a campground or on a boat for example).
Height (cm)
enter value/s in increments of i between 34 and 63
Length (cm)
enter value/s in increments of i between 45 and 105
Width (cm)
enter value/s in increments of i between 35 and 64
Fits 33cm bottle
Models that can fit a tall bottle upright may be more useful for keeping wine, soft drinks or other large items cool.
Availability
A Similar model is identical in most aspects except for a few. This means that a majority of its test results are identical so you can reasonably expect to get the same results from the model we tested, but for those aspects which aren't identical, we'll note these as "Not Tested" in the Compare tables.
A Tested model refers to a model that is still current and available in the Australian market. You should be able to order this model through your local retailer, or find it online.
These models can't be found in retailers or online or are no longer manufactured. You may still find these models on second hand websites, or in second hand dealers. Test methods may change over time, so criteria which can't be directly compared will contain an N/A.
An Identical model is exactly that. Performance characteristics will be identical and the only difference will be something trivial such as colour, which won't have an impact on performance.
These are models we haven't yet tested but that are available.
Included in this review
- Overall score
- Recommended
- CHOICE lab tested
- Fits 33cm bottle
- Length (cm)
- Width (cm)
- Price
- Brand
- Model
- Availability
- Size
- Wheels
- Drain
- Secure clasps
- Baskets
- Padlock space
- Flat top
- Extra features
- Claimed volume (L)
- Dimensions (cm, H x W x D)
- Height (cm)
- Weight, empty (kg)
- Warranty (yrs)
- Contact