Are you tired of struggling to keep your drinks and food cool during outdoor adventures? Look no further! In this article, we will compare two top contenders in the world of coolers – the RTIC Hard Cooler and the Ultra Light. Both options boast impressive features and insulation capabilities, but which one reigns supreme? Grab a cold beverage and read on to discover the ultimate cooler for your next excursion.
Design
Overall design
When it comes to design, both the RTIC hard cooler and the Ultra Light cooler are sleek and modern, with a no-frills aesthetic. They are both designed with functionality and practicality in mind, rather than flashy or unnecessary features. The overall design of both coolers is sturdy and robust, ensuring that they can withstand the rigors of outdoor activities and keep your items cool and fresh.
Size and capacity
The RTIC hard cooler and the Ultra Light cooler offer a range of sizes and capacities to cater to different needs. The RTIC cooler comes in various sizes, from 20 quarts to a massive 145 quarts, allowing you to choose the one that suits your specific requirements. On the other hand, the Ultra Light cooler offers a slightly more limited range of sizes, ranging from 25 quarts to 75 quarts. However, both coolers provide ample space to store your food, drinks, and ice, ensuring that you can keep your items cool and fresh for extended periods.
Weight
When it comes to weight, the Ultra Light cooler lives up to its name. It is significantly lighter than the RTIC hard cooler, making it easier to transport and carry. The Ultra Light cooler is constructed using advanced lightweight materials without compromising on durability or insulation capabilities. On the other hand, the RTIC hard cooler, while heavier, offers excellent durability and insulation, ensuring that your items stay cool for a long time. The weight might be a factor to consider if you plan on transporting the cooler over long distances or carrying it for extended periods.
Handles and carrying options
Both the RTIC hard cooler and the Ultra Light cooler come equipped with convenient handles and carrying options, making it easy to transport them from one place to another. The RTIC cooler features sturdy rubberized handles on the sides and a robust handle on top, allowing for comfortable carrying. In contrast, the Ultra Light cooler has molded-in handles on the sides and an ergonomic handle on the lid, ensuring a secure grip while carrying. These handles make it convenient to move the coolers, whether you’re going on a camping trip, tailgating, or simply heading to the beach.
Durability
Durability is a crucial aspect to consider when choosing a cooler, especially for outdoor activities or rugged adventures. Both the RTIC hard cooler and the Ultra Light cooler excel in durability, ensuring that they can withstand the harsh conditions of the outdoors. The RTIC cooler is constructed with heavy-duty rotomolded plastic, providing exceptional strength and resilience against impact. Similarly, the Ultra Light cooler is made with durable materials that are capable of enduring rugged adventures without experiencing any significant wear or tear. Rest assured, both coolers are designed to last, making them reliable companions for your outdoor escapades.
Insulation
Insulation technology
Insulation technology plays a vital role in determining how long your items will stay cool in a cooler. Both the RTIC hard cooler and the Ultra Light cooler feature advanced insulation technology designed to keep your food, drinks, and ice cold for an extended period. The RTIC cooler incorporates commercial-grade insulation, allowing it to retain ice for up to 10 days in optimal conditions. Likewise, the Ultra Light cooler is built with innovative insulation techniques that can also keep ice for an extended duration. With either cooler, you can trust that your items will stay cold and fresh, providing you with peace of mind during your outdoor adventures.
Ice retention duration
Ice retention duration is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a cooler, especially for extended trips or outdoor activities with limited access to ice. The RTIC hard cooler boasts remarkable ice retention capabilities, keeping ice frozen for up to 10 days in ideal conditions. This is a testament to its superior insulation and seal, allowing you to enjoy cold beverages and fresh food throughout your trip without worrying about the ice melting quickly. Similarly, the Ultra Light cooler also excels in ice retention, albeit with a slightly shorter duration. It can keep ice frozen for several days, depending on the surrounding environment and usage. Regardless of which cooler you choose, you can be confident that your items will remain cold for an extended period, allowing you to enjoy your outdoor adventures without any compromise.
Temperature control
Temperature control is an essential feature, especially if you’re using the cooler to store items other than food and drinks. The RTIC hard cooler and the Ultra Light cooler both deliver excellent temperature control, ensuring that your items stay at the desired temperature. Whether you need to keep medications, vaccines, or sensitive equipment cool, these coolers provide a reliable solution. The insulation technology utilized in both coolers helps prevent temperature fluctuations, ensuring that the interior remains consistently cool. With their reliable temperature control, you can confidently store a wide range of items, knowing they will be kept at the right temperature throughout your adventure.
Construction
Materials used
The construction of a cooler greatly influences its durability, insulation capabilities, and overall performance. The RTIC hard cooler is made with heavy-duty rotomolded plastic, which is known for its strength and impact resistance. This construction ensures that the cooler can withstand rough handling, accidental drops, and other impacts without sustaining significant damage. On the other hand, the Ultra Light cooler is crafted using advanced lightweight materials that offer a robust and durable structure while reducing overall weight. The materials used in both coolers are carefully chosen to ensure longevity and reliability, providing you with a high-quality product that can withstand the demands of outdoor activities.
Sealing and locking mechanisms
A reliable sealing and locking mechanism is crucial to maintain the internal temperature of the cooler and prevent any leaks or spills. Both the RTIC hard cooler and the Ultra Light cooler feature secure sealing and locking mechanisms that keep the cold air in and the hot air out. The RTIC cooler is equipped with a heavy-duty rubber gasket seal, ensuring an airtight closure that minimizes air exchange. Additionally, it utilizes T-shaped latches that provide a secure and tight seal, preventing any accidental opening. Similarly, the Ultra Light cooler features a robust gasket and an easy-to-operate latching system that ensures a tight and secure closure. The sealing and locking mechanisms of both coolers are designed to enhance insulation capabilities and prevent any unwanted temperature fluctuations, allowing you to enjoy cold drinks and fresh food throughout your adventures.
Drainage system
An efficient drainage system is essential for easy cleaning and maintenance of your cooler. Both the RTIC hard cooler and the Ultra Light cooler incorporate a well-designed drainage system to remove any excess water or melted ice. The RTIC cooler features a rapid V-drain system that allows for quick and effortless draining, ensuring that you can clean and dry the cooler with ease. Similarly, the Ultra Light cooler has a smartly designed drain plug positioned at the bottom, enabling hassle-free drainage. With these well-designed drainage systems, you can ensure that your cooler remains clean and free from any stagnant water, enhancing hygiene and overall convenience.
Portability
Ease of transport
Transporting a cooler can be a challenging task, especially if it is heavy or cumbersome. Both the RTIC hard cooler and the Ultra Light cooler are designed with ease of transport in mind. The RTIC cooler features heavy-duty rubberized handles on the sides and a durable handle on top, providing multiple options for carrying. These handles are ergonomically designed, ensuring a comfortable grip even when the cooler is fully loaded. Similarly, the Ultra Light cooler is equipped with molded-in handles on the sides and an ergonomic handle on the lid, allowing for easy and secure transport. Regardless of which cooler you choose, you can confidently transport it from one place to another without any hassle or discomfort.
Wheels and telescopic handles
For added convenience, the Ultra Light cooler comes with an optional feature of an integrated wheeled system and a telescopic handle. This feature is especially useful if you have a large cooler or need to transport it over long distances. The integrated wheels make it effortless to roll the cooler across different terrains, while the telescopic handle can be extended to a comfortable height. This feature is particularly beneficial if you’re going on a camping trip, where you may need to navigate uneven surfaces or travel long distances with your cooler. The RTIC hard cooler, while not equipped with wheels, is still relatively easy to transport due to its well-designed handles and compact shape. If portability is a critical factor for you, the Ultra Light cooler’s wheel and telescopic handle option may be the perfect choice.
Features
Built-in accessories
Both the RTIC hard cooler and the Ultra Light cooler offer various built-in accessories that enhance their functionality and convenience. The RTIC cooler features an integrated cutting board on the lid, providing a convenient surface for meal preparation or serving food. Additionally, it incorporates molded-in tie-down slots, allowing you to secure the cooler in place during transportation or outdoor activities. The Ultra Light cooler, on the other hand, offers built-in molded cup holders on the lid, ensuring that your beverages are easily accessible and secure. These built-in accessories in both coolers eliminate the need for extra attachments or accessories, making your outdoor adventures more enjoyable and stress-free.
Cup holders
Having cup holders built into your cooler can be a convenient feature, as it keeps your beverages within reach and prevents them from tipping over. The Ultra Light cooler is equipped with molded-in cup holders on the lid, allowing you to securely place your drinks while enjoying the outdoors. This eliminates the need for separate cup holders or improvised solutions, providing a neat and organized space for your beverages. While the RTIC hard cooler does not offer built-in cup holders, it can accommodate additional accessories or attachments to hold your drinks in place. Whether you prefer the convenience of built-in cup holders or the flexibility to add your own attachments, both coolers provide options that cater to your needs.
Tie-down options
If you frequently transport your cooler or engage in outdoor activities such as boating or off-roading, having reliable tie-down options is essential. The RTIC cooler incorporates molded-in tie-down slots, allowing you to secure the cooler firmly in place, preventing it from sliding or shifting during transit. These tie-down slots are strategically placed for maximum stability, ensuring that your cooler stays securely fastened to your vehicle or any other surface. Although the Ultra Light cooler does not have built-in tie-down slots, it is compatible with various aftermarket tie-down accessories available in the market, providing you with the flexibility to secure it as needed. Whether you choose the RTIC hard cooler or the Ultra Light cooler, you can trust that your cooler will remain secure and stable during transportation or outdoor activities.
Additional compartments
Having extra compartments in your cooler can be incredibly useful for organizing and separating different items. The RTIC hard cooler offers an optional dry storage tray accessory that fits inside the cooler, providing an additional compartment for non-perishable items or items that need to be kept separated from the ice. This dry storage tray adds versatility to your cooler and allows you to keep your food and drinks organized, preventing any cross-contamination. On the other hand, the Ultra Light cooler does not feature additional compartments. However, its spacious interior provides ample room to organize your items without the need for extra compartments. Depending on your specific needs for organization, you can choose the cooler that best suits your requirements.
Bear-resistant certification
For outdoor enthusiasts who often find themselves in bear country, having a bear-resistant cooler can be crucial for safety. The RTIC hard cooler is certified by the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee (IGBC), ensuring that it meets the rigorous standards for bear-resistant containers. This certification gives you peace of mind knowing that your cooler can withstand the strength and persistence of bears, keeping your food and other scented items secure. On the other hand, the Ultra Light cooler does not have a bear-resistant certification. If you are planning outdoor adventures in bear country, the RTIC hard cooler with its bear-resistant certification may be the ideal choice to ensure the safety of yourself and any nearby wildlife.
Price
Comparative pricing
When comparing the prices of the RTIC hard cooler and the Ultra Light cooler, one should consider the range of sizes and features offered by each. The RTIC cooler, while slightly more expensive than the Ultra Light cooler, provides a wider range of size options and additional accessories such as the dry storage tray. The price difference reflects the added versatility and options available with the RTIC cooler. However, both coolers offer excellent value for money considering their durability, insulation capabilities, and overall performance. Depending on your budget and specific needs, you can choose the cooler that aligns with your preferences without compromising on quality or functionality.
Value for money
Both the RTIC hard cooler and the Ultra Light cooler offer exceptional value for money. Despite the slight price difference, both coolers provide durability, insulation, and convenience that surpasses their respective price points. The RTIC cooler, with its wide range of sizes and additional accessories, offers excellent versatility and value. The Ultra Light cooler, with its lightweight construction and comparable insulation capabilities, provides an affordable yet efficient cooling solution for outdoor enthusiasts. Whichever cooler you choose, be assured that you are investing in a high-quality product that will withstand the test of time and provide reliable performance during your outdoor adventures.
Customer Reviews
Customer satisfaction
Customers who have purchased the RTIC hard cooler and the Ultra Light cooler have expressed high levels of satisfaction with both products. They have praised the durability, insulation capabilities, and user-friendly features of both coolers. Many customers have highlighted the long ice retention duration and overall performance of the coolers, stating that they have exceeded expectations. Furthermore, the built-in accessories such as cup holders and tie-down options have been appreciated for their convenience and practicality. Customers have also commended the customer service provided by both RTIC and Ultra Light, emphasizing their responsiveness and commitment to customer satisfaction. Based on the overwhelmingly positive customer reviews, it is clear that both the RTIC hard cooler and the Ultra Light cooler have been well-received by those who have purchased them.
Common complaints
While the majority of customers are highly satisfied with the RTIC hard cooler and the Ultra Light cooler, there have been a few common complaints. Some customers have mentioned that the cooler lids can be challenging to open or close, especially when the cooler is fully loaded. However, this issue is typically resolved with a little bit of extra effort or by allowing the cooler to equalize the pressure before opening. Additionally, a small number of customers have reported issues with the drain plug, stating that it may leak or become loose over time. It is important to note that these complaints represent a minority of customers, and the overall satisfaction with both coolers remains very high.
Versatility
Suitable for outdoor activities
Both the RTIC hard cooler and the Ultra Light cooler are highly versatile and suitable for a wide range of outdoor activities. Whether you’re going camping, fishing, tailgating, or even on a beach trip, these coolers provide the perfect solution to keep your food and drinks cool and fresh. The durable construction of both coolers ensures that they can withstand the demands of outdoor activities, while their insulation capabilities guarantee that your items will stay cold for an extended period. Whether you’re enjoying a weekend camping trip or hosting a backyard barbecue, these coolers will be your reliable companions, ensuring that you have access to refreshing drinks and delicious food throughout your outdoor adventures.
Compatibility with various situations
Both the RTIC hard cooler and the Ultra Light cooler are compatible with various situations and environments. Whether you’re in a hot and humid climate or a cooler mountain region, these coolers can maintain the desired temperature and keep your items fresh. Additionally, their robust construction makes them suitable for rugged adventures, ensuring that they can withstand rough handling and extreme conditions. The versatility of these coolers extends beyond outdoor activities, as they can also be used for picnics, road trips, or even for storing groceries during transportation. Regardless of the situation, you can count on the RTIC hard cooler and the Ultra Light cooler to meet your cooling needs and provide a reliable solution.
Brand Reputation
RTIC
RTIC is a well-established brand known for its high-quality coolers and outdoor gear. With a reputation for durability, insulation, and customer satisfaction, RTIC has gained a dedicated following of outdoor enthusiasts worldwide. The brand’s commitment to providing reliable products, excellent customer service, and competitive pricing has contributed to its strong brand reputation. RTIC coolers have been tested and proven in various outdoor adventures, showcasing their ability to withstand rugged conditions and deliver outstanding performance. This brand reputation has made RTIC a trusted choice for those seeking reliable cooling solutions for their outdoor activities.
Ultra Light
While relatively new in the market, Ultra Light has quickly gained recognition for its lightweight and high-performance coolers. The brand’s emphasis on advanced materials and efficient insulation has appealed to outdoor enthusiasts looking for portable and reliable cooling options. Ultra Light coolers have received positive feedback from customers, with praises for their durability, insulation capabilities, and overall value for money. The brand’s dedication to customer satisfaction and continuous innovation has contributed to its growing brand reputation, establishing Ultra Light as a reputable choice for those seeking lightweight and efficient coolers.
Conclusion
Choosing between the RTIC hard cooler and the Ultra Light cooler ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. Both coolers offer exceptional durability, insulation capabilities, and practical features that make them ideal companions for your outdoor adventures. The RTIC cooler provides a wider range of size options, additional accessories, and bear-resistant certification, making it a versatile choice for those seeking customization and reliability in bear country. On the other hand, the Ultra Light cooler offers lightweight construction and comparable insulation capabilities, catering to outdoor enthusiasts looking for portability and practicality. Whether it’s a camping trip, fishing excursion, or a backyard barbecue, these coolers will keep your food and drinks cold and fresh, ensuring that you can fully enjoy your outdoor experiences. With RTIC and Ultra Light, you can trust in their reputable brand names to provide you with high-quality coolers that deliver on performance, durability, and customer satisfaction. Choose the cooler that best suits your needs, and embark on your next outdoor adventure with confidence.
