The best electric coolers in the UK 2023

To enhance the atmosphere of trips to the sea or camping with others, the use of an electric cooler is a must. However, it is difficult to choose the most suitable model given the profusion of brands. With this in mind, we highly recommend the Mobicool B40 Hybrid. It stands out from the competition because of its capacity, its cooling time, its power, and its maneuverability. Read this guide to learn more.

Mobicool B40 Hybride 1
8/10

Best value for money

Mobicool B40 Hybride

The best electric cooler in 2021

The Mobicool B40 Hybrid electric compression cooler works like a mini fridge. It tops our ranking thanks to its remarkable value for money, its power and its ability to keep food and drinks cool.

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The Mobicool brand does not do things by halves. And it proves it once again by offering its B40 Hybrid model. Remarkable in many ways, this electric cooler stands out for its mixed technologies. It's as rugged as it is compact, making it more comfortable to use.

With its impressive features, you'll be amazed. Keep your food and drinks in the best conditions. Apart from the compression technology, the Mobicool B40 Hybrid also has a thermoelectric technology. Its refrigeration temperature can reach -15°C, which is highly appreciable.

Campingaz 2000024957 2
8/10

Best value for money

Campingaz 2000024957

The best entry-level electric cooler

Easy to use, the Campingaz 2000024957 is equipped with a long cord measuring 150 cm. The interior consists of a good amount of polyurethane foam (+30% compared to the old model), offering at the same time a better insulation.

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Both the lid and the base of the Campingaz 2000024957 have a relatively thick insulation system. The latter is reduced on the sides to minimize the size. This does not affect its cooling performance or capacity. The interior is lined with an anti-microbial material to prevent mold, germs and bad odors.

The reinforced lid of the Campingaz 2000024957 fits easily inside the tank, ensuring an optimal seal. The Click & Lock system ensures that the device is watertight. Note that the filling of the electric cooler is very easy thanks to the large opening of the lid on the top.

Dometic CFX50 Wifi 3
7/10

Best value for money

Dometic CFX50 Wifi

The best high-end electric cooler

The Dometic CFX50 Wifi electric cooler offers outstanding cooling performance, large storage capacity and robustness. If you have 1,000 euros to spend on a cooler, you won't regret it.

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The Dometic CFX50 Wifi displays with an exceptional capacity and supports intensive use. In addition to its refrigeration function, the device also offers a freezing option, very rare on a cooler. Its cooling power is remarkable, even in high outdoor temperatures. By installing the appropriate app and connecting via Wi-Fi, you will have full control of the cooler from a mobile device like your smartphone.

In addition, the Dometic CFX50 Wifi offers the ability to charge smartphones, MP3 players or others using its USB port. This model has reinforced corners, which gives it an admirable resistance. Also, its hinges are designed with stainless steel.

Mobicool Q40 4
7/10

Aluminum

Mobicool Q40

A particularly rugged electric cooler

With an aluminum finish, the Mobicool Q40 electric cooler has nothing to envy to models of the same capacity. Considered as a mini portable fridge, it impresses with its innovative design and its increased performance.

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The Mobicool Q40 stands out from all 39 L electric coolers by its cooling power and its price. We also like its great robustness, as well as its modern and innovative design. Its metal finish and its aluminum shell ensure a better resistance in time. In compliance with French standards, this model has an energy class of A++.

The Q40 electric cooler is one of Mobicool's most successful models. And for good reason, this portable mini fridge is equipped with a premium insulation system, a double-ventilation device and a folding lid and handles. Within a few hours, the unit easily reaches its optimal cooling temperature.

Severin KB 2923 5
8/10

Alternative

Severin KB 2923

The entry-level alternative

Ideal for camping, hiking or picnics, the Severin KB 2923 efficiently keeps food and drinks at the right temperature (hot or cold). It comes with a 220 - 240 V outlet, a 12 V cable for the cigarette lighter and a USB plug.

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The Severin KB 2923 dual-function electric cooler can be cooled down to -20 °C above the ambient temperature. Its keep-warm function reaches a temperature of 50 °C. It is battery operated via USB and has a 4.5 hour run time. It is equipped with an indicator light to show that it is working properly.

Its removable and lockable cover is perfectly combined with its large carrying handle. A cable compartment is available for better storage. The silicone mat also acts as a battery holder. A practical separating system allows you to fill it individually.

Buying guide • November 2023

Best electric cooler

Any specific needs?

The best electric cooler in 2021

The best entry-level electric cooler

The best high-end electric cooler

A particularly rugged electric cooler

The entry-level alternative

Your guide : Samuel

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Comparison table of the best electric coolers

TOP OF THE TOP CHEAP HIGH END
Mobicool B40 Hybride 6
8/10
Campingaz 2000024957 7
8/10
Dometic CFX50 Wifi 8
7/10
Mobicool Q40 9
7/10
Severin KB 2923 10
8/10
OUR SELECTION
Mobicool B40 Hybride
Campingaz 2000024957
Dometic CFX50 Wifi
Mobicool Q40
Severin KB 2923
The Mobicool B40 Hybrid electric compression cooler works like a mini fridge. It tops our ranking thanks to its remarkable value for money, its power and its ability to keep food and drinks cool.
Easy to use, the Campingaz 2000024957 is equipped with a long cord measuring 150 cm. The interior consists of a good amount of polyurethane foam (+30% compared to the old model), offering at the same time a better insulation.
The Dometic CFX50 Wifi electric cooler offers outstanding cooling performance, large storage capacity and robustness. If you have 1,000 euros to spend on a cooler, you won't regret it.
With an aluminum finish, the Mobicool Q40 electric cooler has nothing to envy to models of the same capacity. Considered as a mini portable fridge, it impresses with its innovative design and its increased performance.
Ideal for camping, hiking or picnics, the Severin KB 2923 efficiently keeps food and drinks at the right temperature (hot or cold). It comes with a 220 - 240 V outlet, a 12 V cable for the cigarette lighter and a USB plug.
Capacity
38 L
36 L
46 L
Temperature
Up to 20°C below ambient temperature
Up to 22°C below ambient temperature
+10 to -22 °C
Energy class
A+
A+
A++
Weight
22 kg
4.8 kg
20.4 kg
Refrigeration technology
Thermoelectric and compression
At compression
Compression

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Buying guide - electric cooler

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How to choose your electric cooler

Camping, picnics, outdoor weekends, family vacations... There are so many occasions where you will inevitably need a cooler. If you've always made do with an ice chest, it's time to buy a cooler worthy of the name! In order to get the right model without breaking the bank, here are the criteria that should be a priority...

#1 - The technology

Before embarking on an endless hunt for the best electric cooler, we strongly recommend that you start by defining your needs and uses. This first step will allow you to choose the electric cooler technology that best suits your needs. Indeed, although they all work through electricity, the models that are generally found on the market differ in their operating mode orrefrigeration mode. There are therefore three kinds of mechanisms, namely:

  • Absorption technology, which consists of heating an ammonia solution and then releasing it in the form of steam. For travel and long journeys where there is no electrical outlet, this alternative is the most suitable.
  • The thermoelectric technology that necessarily needs to be plugged in to absorb heat via electricity to release coolness once the cooler is unplugged. It is designed for short term needs (picnics and short trips) and is normally used in small coolers.
  • Compression technology that rapidly chills or even freezes food while the cooler is plugged in. It is usually used in large electric coolers.

#2 - Storage capacity

Choosing the storage capacity of an electric cooler allows you to define the amount of food and beverages you can fit in it. Usually, the capacity of the models that exist on the market varies between5 and 100 L, which is :

  • 5 to 30 L for thermoelectric coolers
  • Between 30 and 40 L for absorption coolers
  • Up to 100 L for compression coolers

To determine the volume of your electric cooler, base yourself on the quantity of food and drinks you plan to store in it, as well as the number of people who will be refueling. Also, don't minimize the practicality and portability of your equipment, because the larger the cooler, the more space it will take up and the heavier it will be.

#3 - Power consumption

We have to admit that the more electric appliances you have, the higher your monthly bill will be. To reduce your expenses, choose an electric cooler that doesn't have to consume a lot of energy and can be powered from a variety of sources (mains, car battery or cigarette lighter). In terms of power, coolers generally offer between 10 and 100 W. The more powerful they are, the more efficient they are in terms of preservation and autonomy in order to consume less. In terms of their refrigeration mode, absorption technology coolers are the most economical, as they operate either on 12 or 230 V alternating current or on gas. Similarly, thermoelectric coolers are less energy consuming. Indeed, they are easily supplied with a voltage of about 12, 24 or 230 V. Finally, coolers with compression technology can be operated with a voltage of 12, 24 or 110 to 230 V. Performance and energy class are also important parameters, as they determine the level of consumption of the appliance. Thus, models with an A class or higher consume very little energy, as opposed to those with a class below A.

#4 - Noise level

Whether you're

traveling or using them at home in your kitchen or near one of your living rooms and bedrooms, the noise that electric coolers emit can end up disturbing you. For this reason, choose the least noisy models, such as absorption coolers, which do not need to be running at full power to operate effectively. On the other hand

, thermoelectric coolers are the loudest, while compression coolers emit a balanced and tolerable sound.

#5 - Ease of use and maintenance

You don't want to buy an electric cooler that is difficult to handle and requires drastic maintenance. So practicality is a must, not only when using it, but also during transportation and cleaning. Thus, determine the dimensions of your future electric cooler according to the location you have chosen or the space you have in your bus, car, caravan or camper. Also, its weight should not be cumbersome or heavy so that you can move it properly. Coolers weighing less than 20 kg are more suitable for nomads. On the other hand, practicality is based on the techniques of moving (wheels, closing and carrying handles, etc.) and use (multifunctional lid, tray, multiple compartments, etc.). Finally, in terms of maintenance, it will be the material of manufacture that will define the level of insulation, ease of cleaning, strength and durability of the product. Manufacturers frequently opt for plastic or PVC and occasionally for steel. Therefore, choose materials that are resistant, waterproof, scratchproof and shockproof, and that can be easily cleaned with a damp cloth or sponge.

What is the purpose of an electric cooler?

As a true nomad, are you looking for the best way to transport and store perishable food at your fingertips? You'll be happy to know that an electric cooler will be your best ally!

No matter how it works, this device is able to keep your food cold, either for a few hours or for an indefinite period. Indeed, some models are able to keep food cold for 24 hours, and other more efficient models can ensure this conservation for more than 4 days.

First of all, an electric cooler is essential during the trip. In addition, you can also use it once you arrive at your destination. The advantages of an electric cooler are used in many circumstances: pilgrimages, vacations by the sea, camping in the wilderness and trips far from civilization, family picnics, boat trips...

In summer, the use of an electric cooler at home is also appropriate, knowing that those who use a compression technology can make ice cubes. Finally, you will note that the technology of some much more advanced models has made it possible to integrate a heating option in modern electric coolers.

In other words, the electric cooler can serve as a stand-alone mini fridge and sometimes as a mobile microwave. In order to get the most out of them, we advise you to pay particular attention to their characteristics (technology, capacity, size and weight, consumption, autonomy...).

The different types of electric coolers

As the name implies, electric coolers are all powered by electricity. However, depending on how they are made, refrigeration can be done using three different processes. Find out which ones!

The electric absorption cooler

Just like the mechanism of a pressure cooker, an electric absorption cooler heats an ammonia solution

to release it as steam. This steam is then used to produce cold to preserve food and drinks. Of course, this mechanism does not require a motor and does not emit any sound that could disturb after a while.

In addition to their discretion, coolers that use this process are versatile in that they can also be powered by 12 or 230 V AC, or by gas or oil. Absorption technology is frequently used on small appliances and is ideally suited for outdoor temperatures below 32°C.

This is the type of electric cooler that can accompany you on long journeys. Indeed, it does not necessarily have to be powered by an electrical outlet and effectively preserves the food products inside. So, whether it's for road trips by car, for a picnic, for a weekend or a few days of camping, this solution is the most suitable. Nevertheless, be sure to use it exclusively in places where the temperature does not exceed 32°C.

The thermoelectric cooler

Also

called Peltier effect cooler, the thermoelectric cooler is ideally used as a cooler and not a refrigerator. As you may have understood, it adopts the Peltier process, which consists in circulating electric current through two different conductive elements

: one is therefore cold, while the other is hot.

By doing so, the first one removes the heat from the other one to release freshness. Depending on its functionality, the cooler can be reversible and thus allow to reheat meals. This technology requires little energy and works with a voltage of 12, 24 or 230 V. It is mainly used in small coolers and only works at temperatures below 70°C.

The properties of the thermoelectric cooler make it your best ally for picnics and conservation needs of a few hours. It is also a household appliance generally recommended for small families.

The electric compression cooler

Like

a refrigerator, a compression electric cooler consists of a compressor and a refrigerant liquid that allows food products to be refrigerated very efficiently, or even frozen

.

This kind of electric cooler works only with electricity

(on 12 V thanks to a cigarette lighter or 220 V in the case of a domestic use), this technology often equips the big devices. Its consumption and the noise emitted by the motor are in line with its efficiency, as it allows to preserve food for a long time. In addition, the operation of a compression electric cooler does not depend on the outside temperature.

Thanks to its performance and its large capacity, the electric compression cooler is made for large families as well as for catering professionals. It allows you to transport and preserve many food products for several days, provided you have enough space in your vehicle. It is therefore a device that is more suitable for travel by boat, van, caravan or camper.

Electric or classic cooler?

Electric cooler

If you plan to be away for more than 24 hours (camping, hiking...), it would be wiser to invest in an electric cooler whose performance and autonomy seem more reassuring. A boat, a motor home, a van and a 4×4 go hand in hand with electric models.

There is no need to chill food and drinks before placing them in the electric cooler. It is used in the same way as a conventional model except that it requires an electrical connection to operate. It can also be used as a mini fridge if you want to keep your food cool at home.

The last advantage of the electric coolers compared to the classic ones is the option to reheat the food. Hot dogs, sandwiches, burgers and pizzas can be reheated once you get them out of the cold and eat them right away. This option is a must at night, when you are camping in the woods.

Classic cooler

If you are going on a picnic or camping rarely, it is best to choose a standard cooler. The shelf life of a conventional cooler is limited. However, the cooler can be washed and immersed in water.

You can then say goodbye to the bacteria and microbes that grow in food that has been stored for too long. You'll also find that conventional versions weigh less than those with electric technology, such as compression coolers.

Verdict

Between an electric cooler and a classic cooler, the question inevitably arises knowing that the second option often costs less and remains less cumbersome than the first. Nevertheless, it is important to make your choice according to your real needs.

The electric cooler is undoubtedly suitable for long car journeys. It allows you to store perishable foodstuffs efficiently by simply plugging it into a cigarette lighter socket or a mains outlet. Note, however, that it can be quite bulky and noisy.

On the other hand, a classic cooler is available at a very affordable price. The food can be kept at a low temperature for an average of 7 hours. It is necessary to place ice packs in it for maximum efficiency.

Why buy an electric cooler?

Low noise

Since there are no moving parts in the cooling mechanism, the electric (especially thermoelectric) cooler emits very little noise. This is an interesting option when the space available in your car is often limited.

Optimal efficiency

The electric cooler offers the same performance as a portable refrigerator. Drinks and food can be stored for longer. Some models even offer the option of keeping your food warm.

Excellent portability

Just like portable refrigerators, the electric cooler is most easily transported. Available in different sizes and capacities, this type of model is usually equipped with handles and/or wheels. It works simply by plugging it into the cigarette lighter.

Keep warm mode

Generally speaking, a cooler is primarily used to keep food and drinks cool. However, electric models promise an even more interesting feature, which is keeping warm. Not all electric coolers on the market have this feature, but it can be used for some purposes. The most efficient ones promise to keep your food warm up to 60°C.

Several types of power supply

Usually, an electric cooler has two distinct power systems: 12V and 220V. While 12 V is mainly intended for connection to a car battery using a cigarette lighter socket, 220 V is suitable for a traditional electrical socket. With rare exceptions, 24 V can also be made available if you have a heavy vehicle.

The best brands of electric coolers

In our opinion, the best brands of electric coolers in 2022 are :

Dometic
Mobicool
Coleman
Campingaz
Tristar

Founded in 1960, the Dometic group is known worldwide for its intelligent solutions designed to simplify the lives of both sedentary and nomadic people. The brand offers diversified products in several fields (hygiene, sanitation, food, beverages, energy, home security...). Among its most popular products, we find efficient and innovative electric coolers accompanied by essential accessories.

Closely related to the Dometic group, the Mobicool brand was created in the early 1990s and specializes in the design and manufacture of coolers and refrigeration products. Its objective is to offer simplicity and performance to its customers all over the world. Mobile quickly became a huge success and users were quick to point out the strength, reliability and practicality of its flagship products, including electric coolers.

Back in 1905, the American company Coleman was founded by W.C. Coleman, when it was still focused on lighting and gas lamps. The company quickly specialized in the creation of items for camping and outdoor activities, and coolers soon became part of its product line. Today, there are a variety of Coleman electric coolers on the market with different capacities and features, all of which are innovative and of excellent quality.

Everyone knows Campingaz as the great creator and specialist in coolers and barbecues. This brand is one of the first to have created the first electric coolers really adapted to life in the great outdoors (picnics, camping, outdoor activities and outings...). Nowadays, Campingaz electric coolers are among the most sold in the world for their reliability and resistance.

Tristar is an international player in the home appliance sector. Its goal: to offer high quality appliances and equipment at the best price, and electric coolers are no exception. Those who are looking for basic, everyday essentials and quality products turn to the Tristar brand.

What is the price for an electric cooler

The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).

However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.

We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.

Entry-level
30 £ to 150 £
Mid-range
150 £ to 400 £
High-end
more than 400 £
Price range diagram

Tips

Freeze water balloons in your electric cooler

The thicker the ice in the unit, the longer it will keep your food items fresh and the longer it will take to melt. Increase the range of your electric cooler by freezing water balloons and arranging them to form a nest for your beverages or foods you want to keep cool.

Pre-cool your food and cooler

It

's important to refrigerate everything you plan to carry in your cooler ahead of time to make sure the products are fresh beforehand. Similarly, don't hesitate to pre-cool the cooler: a few hours before use, fill it with bags of ice cubes to chill it. It will be all the more efficient.

Transport your eggs easily in your cooler

If

you're going camping and want to make an omelet for breakfast when you get there, this tip is for you! Clean out a water bottle or other plastic container and then use a funnel to pour your eggs into it. You can then transport them more easily and carefully in your cooler.

Get a thermometer to monitor the temperature of your food

Make

room for a mini thermometer inside your cooler, so you can gauge the temperature of your food and see if it needs to be eaten at all or if it can still be stored for a while

.

One cooler for your food, another for your drinks

Because

the cooler where you keep your drink will be opened frequently on the trip, consider a second cooler for your food. While this will involve an additional investment, the return will only be good. The food will be safe and won't lose any of its value because the lid is opened too often.

FAQ

What is the best electric cooler?

The best electric cooler depends on your needs and budget. Read our buying guide for the best products available.

How does an electric cooler work?

The way an electric cooler works depends entirely on the technology it is equipped with. That said, all electric coolers are based on the principle of cold storage, which keeps food and drinks cool for a while. Unlike a conventional cooler, which must be systematically charged with ice blocks, an electric cooler produces cold from the electricity that powers it.

Which electric cooler for intensive use?

In terms of sturdiness and resistance, we advise you to choose only electric absorption coolers. On the other hand, if you need to carry a large amount of food and drinks and are often on the move, it would be best to choose a compression electric cooler whose performance is perfectly aligned with intensive use. Nevertheless, we cannot advise you enough to take precautions when using this type of coolers, as their manufacturing material sometimes seems too fragile.

Where to buy a cheap electric cooler?

You can buy your electric cooler from distributors who specialize in refrigeration and freezing appliances. However, thousands of retailers also offer electric coolers of all kinds and at various prices. Finally, for your convenience, you can also find the best electric coolers from the top brands on e-commerce sites, at prices that defy those of physical stores.

What is the autonomy of an electric cooler?

The autonomy of an electric cooler depends mainly on its refrigeration mode. A thermoelectric cooler will last only a few hours and will only cool food and drinks. On the other hand, coolers with other technologies can last from 7 to 13 hours, or even 4 days for the most efficient models. The latter are responsible for refrigerating and even freezing food as well as cooling it.

Sources

Note: Below are some of the sources we have consulted in writing this article. Links to other sites are not continuously updated. It is therefore possible that a link may not be found. Please use a search engine to find the desired information.
  1. , dometic.com
  2. , rakuten.com
  3. , wikihow.com
  4. , energuide.be
  5. , maison-travaux.fr
  6. , bestreviews.com
  7. , improb.com
  8. , thegearhunt.com
  9. , gearhungry.com
  10. , darty.com
  11. , decathlon.fr
  12. , amazon.co.uk
  13. , boulanger.com
  14. , dometic.com
  15. , h2r-equipements.com
  16. , intersport.fr
  17. , amazon.co.uk
  18. , livraison.gifi.fr
  19. , feuvert.fr
  20. , mobicool.com
  21. , decathlon.fr
  22. , lejustechoix.fr
  23. , maisonae.fr
  24. , upme.fr
  25. , glaciere-electrique.org
  26. , camping-avis.com
  27. , h2r-equipements.com
  28. , lesdelicesdalexandre.fr
  29. , canadiantire.ca
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Updates

March 2022 : Translation of this buying guide from our partner meilleurtest.fr

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Our selection
Mobicool B40 Hybride 11
Mobicool B40 Hybride
Campingaz 2000024957 12
Campingaz 2000024957
Dometic CFX50 Wifi 13
Dometic CFX50 Wifi
Mobicool Q40 14
Mobicool Q40
Severin KB 2923 15
Severin KB 2923

Lecteurs

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