7 BEST Beer Coolers To Keep Beers Frosty [Buyers Guide]

As bartenders, we know just how crucial it is to serve a perfectly chilled beer to our discerning customers.

But when it’s hot outside and even the coldest of storage seems to fail, what’s our best defense to keep those brews at optimum frostiness?

Enter the beer cooler.

We’re thrilled to bring you the crème de la crème of beer coolers, a selection of seven stand-out models that guarantee optimum chill for your cherished brews.

These coolers are designed to keep your beers cold, crisp, and at peak refreshing quality, no matter the environment.

Be it in the middle of busy service at your bar, during an outdoor catering gig, or on a fun-filled day at the beach, these coolers have got your back.

So without further ado, let’s take a look at the best beer coolers on the market.

10/15/2023 02:29 pm GMT

1. AmazonCommercial Rotomolded Cooler

As an experienced bartender who knows a thing or two about the importance of temperature in beer, I can tell you this: finding a cooler that performs well, looks good, and doesn’t break the bank isn’t easy.

However, AmazonCommercial’s 45 Qt. Rotomolded Cooler checks off all these boxes and more.

When I filled it up with my favorite brews, it showed an impressive capacity, easily accommodating a solid mix of 40 cans with ample room for ice.

This high-performing cooler is all about keeping things chill for longer. Thanks to its incredible insulation, it keeps your beers frosty, even in the scorching summer heat, which is a feat not many coolers can match.

As you know when purchasing products, durability matters. This cooler boasts a rotomolded construction – and it’s as sturdy as they come.

It’s definitely built to withstand a rough day at the beach or a heavy-duty tailgate party. But despite its robust build, it still managed to impress me with its portability. Moving it around was a breeze, even when loaded to the brim.

Now, let’s talk about some areas for improvement. While this cooler does its job very well, I found the lid slightly harder to open than some of its counterparts.

And though the cooler keeps beer chilled for an extended period, it does require a good amount of ice to do so, which may be a minor inconvenience for some.

But don’t let these small drawbacks deter you. For its price point, this cooler’s performance is phenomenal. In fact, compared to some of the pricier models I’ve tried, the AmazonCommercial Rotomolded Cooler held its own which is why it’s our top pick for this post.

Pros:

• High capacity
• Excellent insulation
• Sturdy and durable
• Good value for money

Cons:

• Lid can be slightly hard to open
• Requires substantial ice to maintain low temperatures

2. YETI Tundra 45 Cooler

As an avid beer lover who’s seen and used a fair share of coolers, YETI’s Tundra 45 Cooler has a special place in my heart as I’ve owned this product for a couple of years and used it religiously.

At first glance, you’ll notice that it’s not just another cooler. Available in a variety of stunning shades – from seafoam to desert tan, from white to navy – there’s a color for everyone.

Trust me, it’s more than just a style statement; each color reflects a unique personality and appeal that adds a fun twist to any event.

Packing in around 28 cans with a 2:1 ice-to-beer ratio, it might not boast the highest capacity, but where it shines is its unparalleled insulation.

Using it during a busy shift if the fridge goes down or a sunny beach party, I found my beers remained ice-cold for an impressively long time.

It’s virtually indestructible with its rotomolded construction and offers a level of ruggedness that few can match. Its bear-resistant certification means it can survive anything thrown at it – or by it!

Despite all its amazing features, it’s only fair to point out a few things I found slightly less favorable. Its weight, for one, is considerable.

Once filled with beers and ice, it can be quite the workout to move around. Also, for the price point, some might find the capacity a bit on the lower side.

Pros:

• Superior insulation
• Extremely durable and bear-resistant
• Available in a variety of colors

Cons:

• Quite heavy
• Lower capacity relative to its size and price

3. Kanga Insulated Cooler Bag

Having spent numerous years behind the bar and on the go, I’ve discovered that not all coolers are created equal. But when I stumbled upon the Kanga Kase Mate Insulated Cooler Bag, it quickly became a staple in my beer-chilling arsenal.

It’s not your typical cooler – it’s a soft cooler bag that cleverly wraps around your favorite 12-pack of cans.

Now, you might wonder, as I did initially, how well does a soft cooler bag perform? Well, rest assured, the Kanga Kase Mate blew my initial skepticism out of the water.

Being able to just wrap it around my 12-pack and not having to lug around a bulky hard cooler – that’s convenience redefined right there.

Its insulation capabilities are commendable too. After a day out in the scorching sun, it’s amazing to reach into the bag and pull out a perfectly chilled beer.

However, it’s not without its minor imperfections. Although the Kanga Kase Mate can snugly fit a 12-pack, anything more and it’s a no-go.

So, for larger parties or events, you might need to have a couple of these handy, or opt for a larger capacity cooler.

Also, it’s worth mentioning that, despite its robust insulation, it doesn’t quite match the ice retention of a hard cooler.

Pros:

• High convenience and portability
• Good insulation
• Durable and lightweight

Cons:

• Limited capacity
• Doesn’t retain ice as long as hard coolers

4. Coleman 316 Series Insulated Portable Cooler

Coleman’s 316 Series Insulated Portable Cooler found its way into this list due to its claim of maintaining ice for up to five days.

And when I got my hands on it to conduct this roundup, I can tell you this: the cooler lived up to its promise and exceeded my expectations.

Offering a hefty storage capacity, this cooler can handle any gathering, from backyard BBQs to tailgate parties.

One thing I found impressive about this cooler is the heavy-duty latches, a detail that shows Coleman’s commitment to durability.

It’s not just about the toughness, though. These latches create a tight seal, ensuring optimal insulation and enhancing ice retention.

Yet, it’s not without some downsides. While the cooler boasts excellent insulation, it comes at the cost of weight. Once filled, it can be a beast to move around.

Also, its drain plug could be better designed – it does the job, but can be a bit tricky to operate.

Pros:

• Large storage capacity
• Excellent ice retention, up to 5 days
• Heavy-duty and durable latches

Cons:

• Can be heavy when full
• Drain plug design could be better

5. RTIC Soft Cooler Insulated Bag

For a beer enthusiast who loves outdoor adventures as much as I do, the RTIC Soft Cooler is a godsend. It’s a cooler that can go anywhere and do anything, all while keeping your beers icy cold.

As a soft cooler, its biggest selling point is portability. Having lugged many hard coolers around over the years, the comfort and convenience this soft cooler offers is undeniable.

Whether I was on a picnic, a beach day out, or even on duty at the bar, it was always easy to carry and store.

But don’t let its soft exterior fool you. When it comes to keeping things frosty, the RTIC Soft Cooler is up there with the best. Its insulation is top-notch, even in the face of sweltering heat.

One of my favorite features is its leak-proof zipper. I’ve been in situations where a leaky cooler bag could turn a fantastic outing into a messy nightmare. Thanks to this cooler, those days are a thing of the past.

As much as I admire the RTIC Soft Cooler, it does have a couple of aspects I’d like to see improved. Firstly, its capacity isn’t the largest.

If you’re planning for a big gathering, you might need something bigger or an additional cooler. Secondly, while the zipper is fantastic at preventing leaks, it can be a bit stiff and hard to operate at times.

However, at this price – it’s hard to complain about much and I still believe it’s great value for money.

Pros:

• Highly portable
• Excellent insulation
• Leak-proof zipper

Cons:

• Limited capacity
• Zipper can be stiff

6. Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze Cooler Bag

As a seasoned bartender, I’ve learned that the secret to a good beer is all about maintaining the perfect temperature, and that’s where Arctic Zone’s Titan Deep Freeze Cooler doesn’t disappoint.

This cooler is a standout in its category with its unique zipperless lid. Now, this might seem like a small detail, but in the throes of a busy event or a busy shift, the ease of access it provides is game-changing.

Arctic Zone’s deep freeze insulation has won my heart. Whether it was for a busy day behind the bar or an extended outdoor adventure, the beers remained chilled to perfection, all thanks to this cooler’s impressive insulation.

One more feather in its cap is the SmartShelf feature. It allowed me to separate softer stuff from the hard items, ensuring my sandwiches didn’t get squashed under a six-pack – a smart addition indeed!

Despite all its fantastic features, there are a couple of things to keep in mind. Although the zipperless lid offers quick access, it could potentially compromise the cooling efficiency in extremely hot conditions.

And while it’s sturdy overall, the plastic handle feels a bit flimsy and could use some reinforcement.

Pros:

• Zipperless lid for easy access
• Excellent insulation
• SmartShelf to separate soft and hard items

Cons:

• Zipperless design could affect cooling in extreme heat
• Handle could be more durable

7. SPARTER Backpack Cooler Insulated Leak Proof Bag

For any beer drinker who appreciates convenience as much as I do, the SPARTER Backpack Cooler is a revelation.

When I first tried it, I was struck by its dual insulated compartments. These two sections let me separate my beers from food or other drinks, ensuring everything stayed at its optimal temperature. A truly smart solution that many larger brands haven’t yet adopted.

Given its generous capacity – it can accommodate up to 45 cans – I’ve found it ideal for parties or outdoor events. Despite being packed to capacity, the backpack remained comfortable to carry, thanks to its ergonomic design and padded straps.

That said, there are a couple of things worth noting. While the insulation is generally good, in extremely hot conditions, the cooling efficiency can dip a bit, especially if the cooler is opened frequently.

Secondly, although the material is leak-proof, it can show signs of wear and tear over time, especially if exposed to harsh conditions frequently.

All in all, it’s a solid beer cooler that does exactly what it says on the tin, and for it’s price, it’s a real bargain.

Pros:

• Backpack design for hands-free convenience
• Dual insulated compartments for versatility
• Large capacity

Cons:

• Cooling can be affected in extreme heat
• Material durability could be improved

What To Look For In A Beer Cooler

Selecting the perfect beer cooler can be a daunting task with so many options available in the market. However, with the right guidelines, you can find a cooler that caters specifically to your needs.

Here’s a list of factors you should consider when shopping for a beer cooler:

Capacity

Depending on whether you’re using the cooler for personal use, a small gathering, or a large party, you’ll need to consider how many beers it can hold. The capacity of the cooler will dictate how suitable it is for your specific use.

>> Read more: 6 BEST Glass Washers For Bars

Insulation

This is arguably the most critical aspect to consider. The better the insulation, the longer your beers stay cold.

Look for coolers that use high-quality insulation materials and boast prolonged ice retention times.

>> Read more: 8 BEST Beer Glasses On The Market

Durability

A good beer cooler should be able to withstand the elements. If you’re planning on taking it outdoors, consider a rugged, robust cooler that can handle a bit of rough and tumble.

Materials like rotomolded plastic and metal often provide longevity.

>> Read more: 7 BEST Bottle Openers For Bartenders

Portability

If you intend to carry your beer cooler to picnics, beach outings, or camping trips, portability is a key factor. Look for lightweight coolers or those that come with wheels or comfortable handles.

>> Read more: 6 BEST Wine Racks For Bottle Collections

Ease of Use

A beer cooler with a user-friendly design makes your life easier. Features like easy-open lids, anti-leak drain plugs, and in-built bottle openers can greatly enhance the user experience.

>> Read more: 8 BEST Ice Buckets To Keep Beverages Cool

Price

Last but not least, the cost of the beer cooler is a deciding factor. It’s important to balance all the above features with your budget.

However, remember, a good quality cooler can be a long-term investment, often worth the initial cost.

FAQs

Wrapping Up

I truly hope this post has provided you with value and helped guide you in your search to find the best beer cooler to keep your beers nice and cool.

As we’ve explored, each cooler has its own unique set of strengths, but all are designed with one goal in mind – to keep your beers perfectly chilled.

Whether you’re hosting a big gathering, heading out for a picnic, or just kicking back at home, these coolers ensure every sip is as refreshing as the last.

Remember that a good beer cooler isn’t just an investment in a product; it’s an investment in perfecting your beer-drinking experience. So here’s to ice-cold beers, memorable times, and the coolers that help make it all possible.

Stay frosty folks and I’ll catch you in the next one!