Solar powered refrigerators have become more popular than ever. If you have considered purchasing a solar powered cooler, you have to the right place. In this blog post, we have put together a list of the top 7 best solar powered coolers you can purchase today.
What is a solar powered cooler?
A solar powered cooler, refrigerator, or freezer is an electronic device that maintains the temperature and freshness of food, especially perishable commodities. A solar refrigerator as the name implies uses solar power or a battery.
A solar-powered cooler is a great companion for on-road and off-road adventures, yacht voyages, off-grid living, camping, picnics in the wild, and so on.
Did you know that emergency medical facilities and military operations were the first places where solar coolers/refrigerators were used?
Difference between traditional cooler vs solar powered cooler
The difference is self-explanatory. The major difference is the way they are powered.
Traditional coolers are driven by electricity, typically the AC from the power grid, while solar-powered coolers are powered by solar panels or batteries.
A solar powered cooler is energy efficient and eco-friendly. Purchasing a solar-powered cooler is a one-time investment. It is a cost-effective purchase in the long run.
Benefits of using a solar powered cooler
A solar-powered cooler is designed to offer a plethora of advantages to the users, such as:
- Reduce food wastage
- Eco-friendliness
- Energy-efficiency
- Compact and portable
- Lightweight
- Convenient
- Quiet operations
- Great for remote areas
Key points to keep in mind while purchasing a solar-powered cooler
Choosing the right solar cooler is critical since it is a one-time investment. And make sure you make the right investment.
The following key points can help you make an informed buying decision.
1. Storage capacity
Storage capacity is a very important factor. If you are planning to use the device for heavy-duty use, then go for a cooler with a large storage capacity. While a compact refrigerator should be adequate for a single user.
2. Cost
A high-quality solar refrigerator should cost between $500 and $2000, depending on the manufacturer, storage capacity, size, and accessories. Choose items that give a decent return on your investment.
3. Size and weight
Weight and size are significant considerations. Large, hefty coolers are cumbersome to transport. The thing you’re going to buy needs to be lightweight and small in design. such that it takes up the least amount of space and is easier to move around.
4. Durability
A sturdy product outlives a flimsy one by many years. When buying a solar freezer, make sure it is built of a solid, long-lasting material like stainless steel or resistant plastic. Additionally, the equipment needs to be extremely waterproof.
5. Energy-efficiency
Although it is an underappreciated factor, energy efficiency is crucial since it determines how ecologically and economically friendly a gadget is.
I am sure if you keep in mind the above-mentioned factors, you will make a good buying decision, that you will be proud of.
7 best solar powered coolers you can buy today
Here are the top 7 solar-powered coolers to pick from if you’re in a hurry. To make a well-informed purchase, we strongly advise you to read the comprehensive descriptions of each product.
- Best overall: ACOPOWER LiONCooler 42Qt X40A Portable Refrigerator
- Best solar cooler for family gatherings: GOSUN Chill Solar Cooler + Solar Table 60 and Power Bank
- Best solar-powered cooler for heavy-duty use: ICECO 63.4QT VL60 Portable Refrigerator Fridge with SECOP Compressor
- Best portable refrigerator for truckers and off-grid living: NORCOLD INC 1.1 cu. ft. NRF-30 Portable Refrigerator
- Best solar freezer for off-roaders: ARB ELEMENT 63 Qts Fridge/ Freezer
- Best Solar cooler for RVs: Whynter FM-45G Portable Fridge/Freezer
- Best solar-powered refrigerator for couples: Alpicool C15 Portable Mini Car Refrigerator
To read the detailed review of each product, scroll down.
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1. ACOPOWER LiONCooler 42Qt X40A Portable Refrigerator
Next on the list, we have a durable, affordable, rugged, smart, and powerful solar cooler/refrigerator. LiONCooler X40A is a complete package. In fact, it is one of the best solar-powered coolers on the market.
The powerful compressor of this portable refrigerator helps to achieve 0℃ in just 20 minutes by max mode. Moreover, the machine is extremely energy efficient and on a single charge, the freezer works for 10 hours.
This solar-powered cooler is very easy to use. You can choose any mode i.e., cooling, chilling, or freezing depending upon the food/fruits/beverage placed inside. In addition to controlling manually, you may also use your device via a smartphone application.
The wheeled system on this gadget, which makes it incredibly convenient and simple to take anywhere you go without having to lift it, is its finest feature.
This portable refrigerator offers multiple charging options including a solar panel, carport, and AC plug. You may also charge your portable cooler with a Solar generator, etc.
Did you know that more than 10 states/counties governments selected this cooler for vaccine and food transportation? This proves the reliability and trustworthiness of this solar cooler.
You may also read our latest in-depth guide “AcoPower LiONCooler X40A Review: Don’t Buy Before Reading This“
Features:
- Capacity: 40 Liter
- Dimensions: 25 x 15.9 x 20 in.
- Weight: 32.8 Pounds
- App control
- Noise level: 40Db
- Batteries: Replaceable 1 Lithium Polymer battery required (Included)
- Voltage: 12 V
- 173Wh rechargeable battery (takes 4-6 hours to fully charge)
- Luggage-style handle with durable multi-terrain 6-in. wheels
- Built-in LED screen
Pros:
✅ Energy efficient ✅ Powerful ✅ Portable design ✅ Eco-friendly ✅ Elegant and smart design ✅ 1-year warranty ✅ Cost-effective ✅ Easy to charge ✅ Easy to carry ✅ Noiseless operation ✅ Eco-friendly ✅ DurableCons:
- ❌ Bulkier in size but the wheeling system makes it easy to carry around
Ideal for: Car, Van, Truck, camping, home, tailgating, fishing, backyard BBQ, off-grid living, etc.
2. GOSUN Chill Solar Cooler + Solar Table 60 and Power Bank Price: $1,099.00
Gosun Chill Solar Cooler is energy-efficient, portable, and ice-free. It is the perfect choice for those people who are seeking modern luxury.
The cooler doesn’t stop working under clouds or at night, like other low-quality solar coolers. It is designed to give supreme performance throughout the day regardless of the weather conditions.
A multipurpose solar table that can hold solar panels and be used as a lovely dining table is also included in the package. You can adjust your solar table from 19 in. to 27 in.
The cooler, table, and powerbank are three fantastic extras that, despite the product’s seeming high price, make the purchase worthwhile.
Whether you are camping, fishing, BBQ-ing, traveling, or just relaxing in the sun, GOSUN Chill Solar Cooler never leaves you unaccompanied.
Take the powerful Chill Solar Cooler with you wherever you go and keep your food cold, frozen, dry, and organized. Camp in style and ease with GOSUN products.
Features:
- Capacity: 40-Liters
- 60 Watt collapsible table
- Touch screen
- Run time: 14 hours on an 80°F day
- Efficient brushless DC compressor
- Weight: cooler: 28 lbs., Power 144 weight: 2.2 lbs., and SolarTable 60 weight: 24.5 Lbs.
- Chill insulation: R-10, Closed cell polyurethane foam.
- Dimensions: 23.5 x 19 x 16 in.
- Cable length: 7 ft.
- USB Ports: 3X
- Cigarette lighter
- Solar table material: Aluminum Stainless Steel Tempered Glass
- All-terrain wheeling system
Pros:
✅ Fast charging ✅ Energy efficient ✅ No noise ✅ Extremely durable ✅ 1-year warranty ✅ Environmentally friendly ✅ Responsive customer service ✅ Easy-to-carry ✅ Modern and smart design ✅ Water-resistant materialCons:
- ❌ Heavy
Ideal for: Family outings, camping, beach stays, outdoor activities, RV, Off-grid living, road trips, and the list goes on.
3. ICECO 63.4QT VL60 Portable Refrigerator Fridge with SECOP Compressor Price: $849.00
Next on the list, we have a portable, affordable, and rugged solar cooler from ICECO. VL60 is an ideal device for truckers, voyagers, cars, and homes.
VL60 portable refrigerator offers multiple energy modes. You may select MAX mode for fast cooling or ECO mode for energy saving. Moreover, the device works efficiently even under 40° tilt.
When you open the refrigerator, the LED light turns on for easy access in the dark and then automatically turns off, when the lid is closed, thus saving energy.
The fridge has two removable wired baskets that allow quick emptying and restocking. Further, with a double-zone design, you can use this device as a freezer and refrigerator at the same time.
VL60 portable refrigerator is large enough to keep all of your food and portable enough to carry it around without any difficulty.
ICECO VL60 is a heavy-duty cooler that is built to last for a long time. You won’t regret purchasing this device.
Features:
- Capacity: 63.4 Quarts / 60 Liters
- Finish type: Glossy
- SECOP Compressor
- LED light
- 3-level battery protection
- Elastic iron handle
- Tight lock latch
- Weatherproof thermovent
- Weight: 65.7 pounds
- Dimensions: 31.2 x 19.4 x 18.8 in.
- Color: gray
Pros:
✅ Wide cooling range: -18℃~10℃ ✅ User friendly design ✅ 5-year compressor warranty and 1-year other parts warranty ✅ Quiet operations ✅ Easy to use ✅ Keep the temperature for 6 hours ✅ Modern design ✅ Portable ✅ Dual zone (allow you to use freezing and refrigeration at the same time) ✅ Eco-friendly design ✅ 40 degrees’ operationCons:
- ❌ Heavy
Ideal for: Heavy-duty use, off-grid living, RV living, camping, home, trucks, cars, etc.
4. NORCOLD INC 1.1 cu. ft. NRF-30 Portable Refrigerator Price: $732.82
NORCOLD INC 1.1 Cu. ft. is a heavy-duty portable refrigerator/freezer. It keeps your meals and drinks cold for an extended period of time.
The gadget combines both endurance and attractiveness thanks to its corrosion-proof plastic shell. Additionally, the stainless steel inside enhances cooling and avoids stains. As a result, the item is built to work superbly for a long period.
Moreover, the device is extremely energy efficient. It helps you save money in the long run. With all the features and benefits, this portable cooler is the best choice for big families and long trips.
If you want a cooler that offers good value for money, this is the way to go.
Features:
- Finish type: Stainless steel
- Color: grey
- Capacity: 1.06 cubic feet
- Installation: freestanding
- Hermetically sealed compressor
- Weight: 39.6 pounds
- Dimensions: 22 x 15.7 x 15.6 in.
- Cigarette lighter plug
- An electronic control display panel
- Interior light for improved visibility
- Color: Gray
Pros:
✅ Rugged design ✅ Portable ✅ Versatile applications ✅ 2-in-1 refrigerator and freezer ✅ Durable and corrosion proof ✅ Easy-to-clean removable wire basket ✅ Safe to use ✅ Convenient ✅ Easy-to-carry designCons:
- ❌ A little bit heavy for its size
Ideal for: RV, Trucks, boats, cars, camping, home, and so on.
5. ARB ELEMENT 63 Qts Fridge/ Freezer
If you are looking for a rugged, heavy-duty, weatherproof, and efficient solar portable cooler, look no further. ARB Element is the one for you.
The rugged and weatherproof design of ARB Element allows the device to withstand harsh conditions. It works seamlessly year after year without a slight drop in its performance.
The compact design allows you to keep it anywhere, in the back of the SUV, jeep, in the kitchen, under a dual cab canopy, or anywhere you have a small space for the cooler to fit in.
The biggest downside of this refrigerator is its price, otherwise, it would have been ranked higher on this list.
However, if cost is not a constraint then ARB Element is the best bar fridge for parties and large gatherings. Buy this solar fridge and forget to worry about keeping food fresh and cold.
Features:
- Capacity: 63 Quarts
- Dimensions: 24 x 37 x 22 in.
- Finish type: Glossy
- Weight: 70 pounds
- 4-digit PIN code electronic locking system
- 3-stage battery protection
- Infinite-position gas spring-assisted lid
- Tamper-proof bolts for permanent mounting
- Backlit LED screen with dimming function
Pros:
✅ Weatherproof control panel and exterior ✅ Compact design ✅ Reliable ✅ Powerful ✅ Large storage capacity ✅ Rugged design ✅ Pleasing design ✅ Quieter operations ✅ Energy-saving model ✅ 3-year warrantyCons:
- ❌ Very heavy
- ❌ Expensive
- ❌ Non-removable lid
Ideal for: Camping, Fishing, RV, off-roading, off-grid living, family gatherings, etc.
6. Whynter FM-45G Portable Fridge/Freezer
Are you a full-time traveler and looking for a reliable solar power cooler? You are not alone, there are so many out there. We have got what you are looking for.
Whynter FM-45G Portable Fridge/ Freezer is the perfect choice for off-grid camping, RV, and off-road trips. You may also use this unit as a secondary fridge at your home.
A slow cooling rate can be frustrating, right? That’s why FM-45G has a special fast freeze mode to achieve faster cooling.
The device is durable and portable. You can take it anywhere without having to worry about weather conditions.
Keep your food cold and fresh with Whynter FM-45G Portable Fridge/Freezer
Features:
- Capacity: 1.41 Cubic feet / 45 Quarts
- Adjustable temperature range: -8°F to 50°F
- Color: Gray
- Special feature: Fast freeze mode
- Dimensions: 16.5 x 23.5 x 20.5 in.
- Weight: 45 lbs.
- AC Power cord: 8 ft.
- Two removable wire baskets
- Wattage: 65 Watts
- Noise level: 40dB
- Three cooling modes: Fast freeze, normal, and low power mode
- LED temperature display
Pros:
✅ Innovative design ✅ Functions even when tilted 30° ✅ Dual-function (refrigerator and freezer) ✅ Cost-effective ✅ Fast freezing ✅ Eco-friendly ✅ AffordableCons:
- ❌ No interior lights
Ideal for: Home, camping, car, RV, boat, fishing, off-grid living, road trips, etc.
7. Alpicool C15 Portable Mini Car Refrigerator
AlpiCool C15 portable refrigerator is a cool mini fridge for your adventures.
The freezer has a capacity of 15 Liters which is enough to store up to 20 cans of cola. You can save perishable foods and fruits to keep them fresh for a long time.
If you are planning on going on a romantic trip with your partner, you should purchase C15. This portable mini fridge will make your vacation memorable and luxurious.
The device is very portable and easy to carry. Grab this mini device and go wherever you want to go, without having to worry about anything.
Features:
- Capacity: 15 liters (20 cans of cola)
- Dimensions: 10.2 x 23.25 x 12.6 in.
- Finish type: Glossy
- Material: Plastic
- Temperature: -20 degrees Celsius
- Weight: 18.92 pounds
- Wattage: 45 Watts
- Voltage: 12 V
- Battery type: Alkaline
- Color: Gray
Pros:
✅ Portable ✅ Lightweight ✅ Durable ✅ Compact and modern design ✅ Energy efficient ✅ High efficiency ✅ Quickly cooling ✅ App control ✅ Affordable ✅ Multiple charging optionsCons:
- ❌ Not suitable for heavy use
Ideal for: Two people, Off-road trips, RVs, long haul truckers, voyages, camping, travelers, etc.
Closing remarks
Buying a solar powered cooler will be the best decision you make this year. You are doing a favor for yourself, your loved ones, and the environment.
Next time you go on a trip, take any food or drink with you without having to worry about its perishable nature since you have got a solar cooler that keeps everything frosty cold, and fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a solar powered cooler?
A solar powered cooler is an electric device that keeps food and drink items cold and dry. Solar coolers come in different sizes and shapes.
How does a solar cooler work?
A solar-powered weather cooler works like a typical electricity-driven cooler, except the fact that it is powered by solar panels or batteries.
The energy produced from solar panels is in DC form, which is converted into AC power. AC power is consumed while extra power is stored in the inbuilt battery to be used for later application. However, some compressors also work on DC power.
How long does a solar cooler last?
A high-quality solar powered cooler can last for many years. Even for more than 20 years, depending on how well the user takes care of the device.
Who needs a solar powered freezer?
Solar powered freezer is the need of every person, who wants to keep their food fresh and cold. It is an essential device for RVs, trucks, cars, off-grid living, homes, and other related applications.