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6 Best 16 Quart Coolers 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

9.7 score

Igloo 16 Qt Maxcold Playmate Elite, Gray

Igloo 16 Qt Maxcold Playmate Elite, Gray

Igloo

9.7 score

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The Igloo 16 Qt Maxcold Playmate Elite cooler stands out with its iconic design featuring a push-button lid for easy one-handed operation and a lid that swings open to either side for straightforward access. This makes it particularly user-friendly when you're juggling multiple tasks during activities like camping.

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,317
Insulation
Durability
Portability

Most important from
5803 reviews

Insulation
It's amazing how well it keeps lunches cold for hours.
Durability
The cooler is incredibly handy, durable, and just the right size, making it perfect for daily use.
Portability
Compact and convenient, it works wonders for short trips.
#2
9.4 score

Coleman Chiller 16qt Insulated Portable Cooler with Ice Retention & Large Carry Handle, Made in USA

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Coleman Chiller 16qt Insulated Portable Cooler with Ice Retention & Large Carry Handle, Made in USA

Coleman

9.4 score

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The Coleman Chiller 16qt Insulated Portable Cooler is a handy option for those who need a small to medium-sized cooler for camping or other outdoor activities. With TempLock insulation, the cooler effectively keeps drinks cold, though the ice retention might not compete with high-end models. It holds up to 11 cans along with 8 lbs. of ice, which is suitable for personal or small group use over a day or weekend.

Rating
9.4
Insulation
Durability
Portability

Most important from
5395 reviews

Insulation
Keeps contents cold for up to 36 hours, making it ideal for school trips or road adventures.
Durability
Performs impressively in tough conditions, like thunderstorms, ensuring no water leaks in while keeping everything cool.
Portability
Sturdy and easy to carry, even for a middle schooler, thanks to its lightweight and convenient handle.
Capacity
Perfect size for a day trip or an overnight adventure, easily accommodating food and ice packs without being cumbersome.
Ease of Cleaning
Cleaning is a breeze, with the lid staying closed to maintain the cold, making it a reliable choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
#3
9.1 score

Goplus 16 Quart Cooler, Portable Insulated Ice Chest, 4-Day Ice Retention, 24-Can Capacity Camping Cooler Ice Box for BBQs, Tailgating and Outdoor Activities (Khaki)

Goplus 16 Quart Cooler, Portable Insulated Ice Chest, 4-Day Ice Retention, 24-Can Capacity Camping Cooler Ice Box for BBQs, Tailgating and Outdoor Activities (Khaki)

Goplus

9.1 score

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The Goplus 16 Quart Cooler in khaki is designed for outdoor enthusiasts who need a reliable and portable cooler. It features premium PU insulating materials that provide excellent insulation, keeping ice cold for up to four days. This makes it ideal for camping, BBQs, tailgating, and other outdoor activities. The cooler’s capacity can hold up to 24 cans without ice, which is quite generous for its size.

Rating
9.1
Durability
Portability
Capacity

Most important from
663 reviews

Durability
Durable enough to withstand rough handling and river trips, showing only minor scratches after floating downstream.
Portability
Lightweight and super easy to carry, making it ideal for juggling other gear on outdoor adventures.
Capacity
While the cooler is well-built, its interior is tighter than expected, limiting capacity for longer trips.
Ice Retention
Impressive ice retention – even after three days, drinks remained cold, and ice hadn't fully melted.

Top 6 Best 16 Quart Coolers 2025 in the United States

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Slide 1

Mammoth

Mammoth Coolers Cruiser Series, Insulated Hard Ice Chest with Durable Double-Walled Rotomolded Construction, Great for On-The-Go Recreational Activities (Cruiser 15, Seafoam Green)

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7% OFF
#1

Winner

9.7 score

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Igloo

Igloo 16 Qt Maxcold Playmate Elite, Gray

Insulation: Maxcold branding
Durability: Plastic
Portability: 4.19 pounds, handle
Capacity: 15 Liters
Ice Retention: Maxcold branding
Ease of Cleaning: straightforward design

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Chosen by 1317 this week

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Slide 1

Mammoth

Mammoth Coolers Cruiser Series, Insulated Hard Ice Chest with Durable Double-Walled Rotomolded Construction, Great for On-The-Go Recreational Activities (Cruiser 15, Seafoam Green)

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7% OFF
#2

9.4 score

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Coleman

Coleman Chiller 16qt Insulated Portable Cooler with Ice Retention & Large Carry Handle, Made in USA

Insulation: TempLock insulation
Durability: Durable plastic
Portability: 3.6 pounds, large-grip handle
Capacity: 16 Quarts
Ease of Cleaning: Quick-clean top

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12% OFF
#3

9.1 score

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Goplus

Goplus 16 Quart Cooler, Portable Insulated Ice Chest, 4-Day Ice Retention, 24-Can Capacity Camping Cooler Ice Box for BBQs, Tailgating and Outdoor Activities (Khaki)

Insulation: Polyurethane
Durability: PE and PU materials
Portability: 10 lbs, padded steel handle
Capacity: 16 Quarts
Ice Retention: up to four days
Ease of Cleaning: built-in drain plug

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#4

8.8 score

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Igloo

Igloo 12-16 Qt Profile Hardsided Insulated Lunch Cooler, 16 Qt Blue

Insulation: NEW THERMECOOL foam insulation
Durability: Plastic build durable for light outdoor use
Portability: 4.4 pounds; bail handle folds flat
Capacity: 16 Quarts
Ice Retention: Keeps contents cold for several hours
Ease of Cleaning: Pouring channels drain melted ice

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#5

8.5 score

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Igloo

Igloo 16 Qt Blue/White Ice Chest with Easy-Carry Handle

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#6

8.2 score

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Igloo

Igloo 00032625 Latitude 16 Indigo Blue, White, Meteorite, White

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Buying Guide for the Best 16 Quart Coolers

Choosing the right 16-quart cooler can make a big difference in your outdoor adventures, whether you're planning a day at the beach, a picnic in the park, or a camping trip. A 16-quart cooler is a versatile size that can hold enough food and drinks for a small group without being too bulky to carry. To find the best cooler for your needs, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they impact performance and usability.
InsulationInsulation is what keeps your food and drinks cold. The quality of insulation determines how long the cooler can maintain its internal temperature. Generally, coolers with thicker walls and lids have better insulation. If you need to keep items cold for an extended period, such as for a weekend camping trip, look for a cooler with high-quality insulation. For shorter outings, a cooler with moderate insulation will suffice.
DurabilityDurability refers to how well the cooler can withstand rough handling and outdoor conditions. This is important if you plan to use the cooler frequently or in rugged environments. Coolers made from high-density polyethylene or other tough materials are more durable. If you need a cooler for heavy-duty use, choose one with reinforced corners and sturdy latches. For occasional use, a less rugged model may be adequate.
PortabilityPortability is about how easy it is to carry the cooler. This includes the weight of the cooler when empty, the design of the handles, and whether it has wheels. If you need to carry the cooler over long distances or rough terrain, look for one with comfortable, ergonomic handles or wheels. For short distances or car trips, a simpler design may be fine.
CapacityCapacity is the amount of space inside the cooler, measured in quarts. A 16-quart cooler can typically hold about 20 cans of soda with some ice. Consider what you need to store and how much space you require. If you need to pack a lot of food and drinks for a group, ensure the cooler has enough capacity. For individual use or small outings, a 16-quart cooler should be sufficient.
Ice RetentionIce retention is the length of time the cooler can keep ice frozen. This depends on the quality of insulation and the seal of the lid. If you need to keep items cold for several days, look for a cooler with excellent ice retention. For day trips, a cooler with moderate ice retention will work. Consider how long you need to keep your items cold when choosing a cooler.
Ease of CleaningEase of cleaning refers to how simple it is to clean the cooler after use. This is important for maintaining hygiene and preventing odors. Look for coolers with smooth, easy-to-wipe surfaces and removable drain plugs. If you plan to use the cooler frequently, choose one that is easy to clean. For occasional use, this may be less critical.

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