Car Cooler Comparison: How to Choose the Best One

German publication Heise Online tested thermoelectric cool boxes. The Crivit model from Lidl for 60 euros was named the test winner, Brandson for 83 euros the technology winner, and Arebos for 50 euros the best value for money. Such boxes cool contents by a maximum of 18 °C below ambient temperature and are not suitable for freezing food.

IMTEST tested four coolers for camping and travel: EcoFlow Glacier Classic 35, Dometic CFX5 45, Anker Solix Everfrost 2 40L, and Maentum IcecubeX 40L. The winner was the EcoFlow Glacier Classic 35 with a rating of 'good' (2.53), which cools to 7°C in 17 minutes and maintains temperature for over 40 minutes. The best value for money was the Maentum IcecubeX 40L (2.54), though it cools slower (about 51 minutes) and lacks a built-in battery. The Dometic CFX5 45 (2.56) had the fastest cooling (under 10 minutes) and best insulation, but is more expensive and requires an external battery.

Seven compressor coolers for motorhomes and camping were tested. The Anker Solix Everfrost 2 40L was named the best at €650, offering strong cooling performance and long battery life. The Ecoflow Glacier Classic 35L at €584 was the technology leader, with solar charging capability. The Plug-in Festivals Icecube 40 was the best value, starting at €271.