10 Best Plug In Coolers 2026 in the United States

The Igloo Gray Polar 120 Qt cooler is a spacious and practical choice for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly those who enjoy camping. With a generous capacity of 120 quarts, it can hold a substantial amount of food and drinks, making it ideal for larger groups or extended trips. Its cooling performance is enhanced by UV inhibitors in the lid, which help prevent sun damage, ensuring the contents stay cool longer. The stain- and odor-resistant liner is a thoughtful feature that makes cleaning easier, and the threaded drain plug allows for hassle-free emptying with a hose attachment.

Portability is a strong point, thanks to the reinforced, swing-up handles that provide a secure and comfortable grip for carrying. The dual snap-fit latches keep the lid secure, preventing accidental openings and ensuring your items stay safe. However, while the cooler is designed for durability, being made of plastic, some users might be concerned about its long-term resilience compared to metal alternatives.

On the downside, the cooler weighs approximately 12 ounces, which is quite light, but given its size, it can still be cumbersome when fully loaded. Noise level isn't typically a concern with cooler products, but it’s worth noting that some users may experience clanging if items inside shift around. Additionally, while it ranks well in the camping cooler category, the competition is fierce, and there are other models on the market that may offer better insulation or features at a similar price point.

The Setpower DT35 Electric Cooler is a smart choice if you want a portable cooler with plenty of space and flexible temperature control. It offers 35 liters of capacity split into two zones, so you can chill drinks in one side and freeze food in the other—great for road trips or camping. The cooling is fast and reliable thanks to its Smartele compressor, and it uses only 38 to 50 watts of power, which helps save energy. You can adjust and monitor temperatures easily through the smartphone app, adding convenience especially when you’re on the move.

It also features helpful touches like an LED light, removable basket for organization, and a drainage hole for easy cleaning. The cooler weighs nearly 40 pounds, so it’s not the lightest option if you plan to carry it around frequently. Its size is fairly large, which might be a tight fit in smaller cars. Noise levels are low, making it suitable for quiet environments. The durability is supported by anti-shake design and metal fixing points to secure it during travel.

For those seeking a versatile and efficient car refrigerator and who don’t mind the weight, the Setpower DT35 delivers strong features and user-friendly controls, making it a valuable option.

The Engel UC19 is a compact, 19-quart hard shell cooler designed to keep ice for up to two days, making it great for outdoor activities like fishing, camping, and picnics. With a capacity to hold up to 30 cans and a recommended 2:1 ice-to-cans ratio, it offers decent storage for its size. Its insulation uses high-grade molded polystyrene foam combined with a hard plastic outer shell, providing solid cooling performance without any electrical power source, so it’s energy efficient by default.

This cooler stands out for its durability. The stainless steel latches and industrial-strength hinges make it tough enough to withstand rough handling and harsh environments. It is also water-resistant and airtight thanks to its EVA gasket seal, which prevents leaks and keeps dust or contaminants out. This feature doubles the cooler as a dry box, handy for protecting sensitive items like electronics or camera gear. Portability is well thought-out—an included heavy-duty adjustable shoulder strap and a hanging accessory tray add convenience for carrying and organizing smaller items. Weighing 3.5 pounds, it strikes a balance between sturdy build and ease of transport. Noise level isn’t an issue here since it’s a passive cooler without any mechanical parts.

One limitation is that the Engel UC19 doesn’t plug in or offer active cooling, which means ice retention depends entirely on insulation quality and external conditions. Also, with a 19-quart capacity, it may be too small for larger groups or extended trips. While easy to clean and tough, its hard plastic exterior might add some bulk compared to soft coolers. The Engel UC19 is best suited for users needing reliable ice retention and robust protection in a portable, leak-proof design, rather than active cooling or very large capacity.