Solar-Powered Coolers: The Definitive Buyers Guide

Table of Contents
Solar-Powered Coolers have revolutionized what it means to live and thrive off of the grid sustainably. By using the power of the sun to keep your food cold, you can go for longer periods without having to resupply any ice or perishable items.
Here, we look at the three best solar-powered coolers available right now, discuss the pros and cons of each model, and provide the answers to some frequently asked questions. We hope this guide makes it easy for you to choose the right solar-powered cooler for your needs!
The LionCooler from ACOPower

Overall, the LionCooler from ACOPower is the ultimate choice for anyone looking for a solar-powered cooler. The brand offers many portable models in varying sizes and prices, perfect to match any solar setup or budget.
Key Features
You can charge the cooler at home the night before you leave, in your car on the way to the campsite, or with the sun while you enjoy the great outdoors. The battery is also easily replaceable, so you can bring along as many batteries as you need to maximize your cooler's lifespan.
You can control the temperature settings, setting it as low as -4℉ via the built-in LCD screen or remotely with the free Bluetooth App for Android or iOS. The LionCooler works as a solar-powered cooler and freezer as the unit can cool to 10℉ in as little as 40 minutes.
Available Sizes
- 17 Quart
- 32 Quart
- 42 Quart
- 52 Quart
Click to view the ACOPower Solar-Powered Cooler
ARB Solar-Powered Coolers

ARB is a well-known and highly rated producer of solar-powered coolers. Although they are not portable, ARB coolers may be the best choice if you want a permanent solar-powered cooler setup.
Key Features
Available Sizes
- Check Price on Amazon here - 37 Quart
- Check Price on Amazon here - 50 Quart
- Check Price on Amazon here - 63 Quart
- Check Price on Amazon here - 63 Quart (Weatherproof Version)
- Check Price on Amazon here - 82 Quart
The Dometic CFX

Lastly, we recommend an electric cooler that is both portable and capable of keeping many items cool for an extended period: The Dometic CFX..
Key Features
Available Sizes
Does a Solar-Powered Cooler Work When it is Not Plugged in?
Yes. Although you can plug most solar-powered coolers into solar panels, an AC wall outlet, or a DC car outlet, they do not have to remain plugged in to keep food cold. When the battery is charged, the device continues to monitor and cool the interior. Even after the battery runs out, most high-quality solar-powered coolers are insulated enough to stay cool for even longer.
Can I Use a Solar-Powered Cooler as a Freezer?
Yes. You can program most high-end solar-powered coolers to maintain temperatures far below freezing, even in very hot conditions.
Can I Put Ice in an Electric Cooler?
No. You will not need to stop at the gas station for ice as solar-powered coolers work using electricity. Solar-powered electric coolers can be damaged if the electrical components come in contact with water from ice melt.
Final Words
If you're in the market for a solar-powered cooler, we hope this guide was helpful to you. We’ve tested just about every solar-powered cooler on the market, so we stand by our recommendations. If you have any questions or want to learn more, feel free to contact us today.
Affiliate disclosure: We aim to provide honest information to our readers. That being said, we do not do sponsored or paid posts. In exchange for referring sales, we may receive a small commission through affiliate links. This post contains affiliate links. This comes at no extra cost to you.
- Tags: All Articles, Camping, DIY Solar Lifestyle
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