Let’s embark on a thrilling journey of comparing the Yeti 45 and 35 Coolers, two top-notch companions for all your outdoor adventures. Whether you’re planning a weekend camping trip or a day at the beach, these coolers have got you covered. In this article, we’ll explore their similarities, differences, and the features that make each one a standout option. So grab a seat, sit back, and let’s discover which cooler is perfect for your needs!
Size
Exterior Dimensions
The size of a cooler is an important aspect to consider when choosing the right one for your needs. The exterior dimensions of a cooler determine its overall footprint and how much space it will take up in your car, boat, or campsite. The Yeti 45 and 35 coolers are both known for their spacious interiors, but there are some differences in their exterior dimensions.
The Yeti 45 has exterior dimensions of 25 7/8″ × 16 1/8″ × 15 3/8″, making it slightly larger than the Yeti 35. With its extra width and height, the Yeti 45 offers a total capacity of 37.6 liters or 45 quarts. This extra size can come in handy when you need to store larger items or if you’re planning a longer trip that requires more supplies.
On the other hand, the Yeti 35 has exterior dimensions of 21 3/8″ × 16″ × 15 3/8″. This makes it more compact and easier to transport compared to the Yeti 45. With a total capacity of 28.2 liters or 35 quarts, the Yeti 35 is a great option for shorter trips or when you have limited space available.
Interior Dimensions
When it comes to the interior dimensions, the Yeti 45 and 35 coolers offer similar space in terms of length and width. However, the differences lie in their depth or height, which can affect the types of items you can store inside.
The interior dimensions of the Yeti 45 are approximately 19 3/8″ × 10 5/8″ × 10 3/4″. This generous height allows you to easily stack cans, bottles, and food containers without any issues. You can comfortably fit up to 28 cans plus ice in the Yeti 45, making it a great choice for larger gatherings or extended trips.
On the other hand, the interior dimensions of the Yeti 35 are approximately 19″ × 10 1/2″ × 10 3/8″. While slightly smaller in height compared to the Yeti 45, the Yeti 35 can still accommodate up to 20 cans plus ice. This makes it a suitable option for smaller groups or day trips where you don’t require as much storage space.
Capacity
Ice Retention
One of the key factors to consider when choosing a cooler is its ability to retain ice and keep your contents cold for an extended period. Both the Yeti 45 and 35 coolers are renowned for their excellent insulation and ice retention capabilities.
The Yeti 45 cooler is designed with 2 inches of PermaFrost Insulation, which provides exceptional thermal resistance. This insulation, combined with a sturdy gasket seal and T-Rex lid latches, ensures that your ice stays frozen for days, even in hot weather conditions. You can expect the Yeti 45 to keep ice for up to 5-7 days, making it a reliable choice for longer trips or adventures.
The Yeti 35 cooler also boasts 2 inches of PermaFrost Insulation, guaranteeing superior ice retention. With a similar gasket seal and T-Rex lid latches, the Yeti 35 can keep your ice frozen for up to 3-5 days. This makes it a suitable option for weekend getaways or shorter excursions where you don’t require as much ice storage.
Storage Capacity
Storage capacity is another crucial aspect to consider when selecting a cooler. The Yeti 45 and 35 coolers offer ample space for keeping your food, drinks, and other perishables cold and fresh.
The Yeti 45 cooler has a total storage capacity of 37.6 liters or 45 quarts. With this size, you can comfortably fit approximately 28 cans plus ice, or a combination of food containers and beverages for extended trips. The spacious interior allows for easy organization and ensures that you have enough room for all your essentials.
On the other hand, the Yeti 35 cooler has a total storage capacity of 28.2 liters or 35 quarts. While slightly smaller than the Yeti 45, it can still accommodate up to 20 cans plus ice, making it perfect for shorter outings or when you have limited space available. The compact size of the Yeti 35 doesn’t compromise on functionality, allowing you to store your items efficiently.
Construction
Material
The construction and materials used in a cooler play a vital role in its performance and durability. Both the Yeti 45 and 35 coolers are built to withstand the toughest conditions and are constructed using high-quality materials.
The Yeti 45 cooler is made from sturdy rotomolded polyethylene, providing exceptional durability. This material is known for its resistance to impacts, UV rays, and corrosion, making the Yeti 45 a reliable choice for outdoor adventures. The robust construction ensures that the cooler can withstand rough handling during transportation and usage.
Likewise, the Yeti 35 cooler also features the same rotomolded polyethylene construction, offering the same level of durability. The high-quality material ensures that the cooler remains intact even in harsh environments, making it suitable for camping trips, fishing excursions, and other outdoor activities.
Insulation
Insulation is a crucial factor in determining a cooler’s ability to maintain low temperatures and keep your contents cold. Both the Yeti 45 and 35 coolers are engineered with top-notch insulation to ensure optimal insulation performance.
The Yeti 45 cooler is equipped with 2 inches of PermaFrost Insulation, which provides superior thermal resistance. This insulation is designed to keep your ice frozen and your perishables cold for an extended period. The thick insulation combined with the freezer-grade gasket seal ensures minimal heat transfer, resulting in excellent ice retention and temperature control.
Similarly, the Yeti 35 cooler features 2 inches of PermaFrost Insulation that delivers exceptional temperature retention. The insulation works in conjunction with the gasket seal and T-Rex lid latches to create a tight seal, preventing warm air from entering and cold air from escaping. This ensures that your contents stay cold and fresh for an extended period.
Durability
Durability is a significant consideration when investing in a cooler, especially if you plan on using it frequently or in rugged outdoor environments. The Yeti 45 and 35 coolers are renowned for their durability and are built to withstand rough handling and extreme conditions.
The Yeti 45 cooler is designed to handle whatever is thrown at it. Its rotomolded construction, combined with heavy-duty latches and hinge system, ensures that the cooler can withstand impacts, drops, and vibrations without compromising its integrity. Whether you’re using it for camping, boating, or tailgating, the Yeti 45 guarantees long-lasting performance and durability.
Similarly, the Yeti 35 cooler is built to last and withstand rigorous usage. Its rotomolded construction and robust hardware, such as the latches and hinge system, ensure that the cooler can handle the demands of outdoor adventures. The Yeti 35 is designed to be a reliable companion for your day trips, fishing outings, or any activity where you need a durable and trustworthy cooler.
Portability
Weight
Portability is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a cooler, especially if you often find yourself on the go or need to transport it frequently. The weight of a cooler can make a significant difference in terms of ease of carrying and maneuverability.
The Yeti 45 cooler weighs approximately 23 pounds when empty. While not the lightest cooler on the market, it still offers a reasonable weight for its size and storage capacity. The sturdy construction and materials used in the Yeti 45 contribute to its weight, ensuring that it can withstand heavy loads and rough handling.
On the other hand, the Yeti 35 cooler is slightly lighter, weighing around 20 pounds when empty. This makes it a more compact and manageable option for individuals who prioritize portability. The lighter weight of the Yeti 35 doesn’t compromise its durability or performance, making it an excellent choice for those who need a more portable cooler.
Carrying Options
When it comes to carrying options, the Yeti 45 and 35 coolers offer versatile solutions to meet your needs. Both coolers are designed with integrated handles that make transportation easier and more comfortable.
The Yeti 45 cooler features two molded-in handles on either side, allowing for easy two-person carrying. The handles are ergonomically designed and provide a secure grip, making it easier to lift and maneuver, even when the cooler is fully loaded. This dual-handle design ensures that the weight is evenly distributed, reducing strain on your back and shoulders.
Similarly, the Yeti 35 cooler also features two integrated handles on the sides for easy carrying. These handles are designed to provide a comfortable grip and ensure that you can transport the cooler with ease. Whether you’re alone or with a companion, the dual-handle design makes carrying the Yeti 35 a breeze, even when it’s filled to capacity.
Features
Latches
The latches on a cooler are essential for maintaining a tight seal and locking in the cold air. Both the Yeti 45 and 35 coolers come with heavy-duty latches that ensure a secure closure and prevent any heat transfer.
The Yeti 45 cooler is equipped with robust T-Rex lid latches that are built to last. These durable latches ensure a tight seal, keeping the cold air in and the warm air out. The T-Rex lid latches are also designed to be easy to use, allowing for quick and hassle-free access to your contents.
Similarly, the Yeti 35 cooler features the same reliable T-Rex lid latches that provide a secure closure. These latches ensure that your contents stay cold and fresh, even in rugged outdoor environments. The user-friendly design of the T-Rex lid latches ensures that you can effortlessly open and close the cooler whenever needed.
Drainage System
A proper drainage system is essential for easy cleaning and removing excess water from your cooler. Both the Yeti 45 and 35 coolers are designed with a reliable drainage system that allows for hassle-free draining.
The Yeti 45 cooler features a Vortex Drain System that enables efficient and quick draining. This system allows you to easily drain the melted ice and water from your cooler without hassle. The Vortex Drain Plug ensures a leak-proof seal, preventing any water from seeping out during transportation.
Similarly, the Yeti 35 cooler also incorporates the Vortex Drain System. This user-friendly drainage system allows for effortless draining, making clean-up a breeze. Whether you’re emptying the melted ice or cleaning the cooler after use, the Vortex Drain System ensures efficient water removal, preventing any mess.
Bear Resistance
For outdoor enthusiasts who venture into bear country, having a bear-resistant cooler is essential for keeping your food and supplies safe. Both the Yeti 45 and 35 coolers are certified bear-resistant, providing an added layer of security.
The Yeti 45 cooler is certified as bear-resistant by the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee (IGBC) when used with two padlocks. This certification means that the Yeti 45 meets the necessary requirements to withstand a bear encounter and prevent bears from accessing its contents. If you’re planning a camping or hiking trip in bear country, the Yeti 45 offers peace of mind and ensures the safety of your supplies.
Similarly, the Yeti 35 cooler is also IGBC-certified as bear-resistant when used with two padlocks. This means that the Yeti 35 meets the necessary standards for bear resistance, allowing you to confidently store your food and prevent bear access. The bear-resistant certification of the Yeti 35 makes it a reliable choice for outdoor adventures in bear country.
Price
Retail Price
Price is always an important factor to consider when making a purchase decision. It’s crucial to find a cooler that offers good value for money without compromising on quality and performance.
The Yeti 45 cooler has a higher retail price compared to the Yeti 35, given its larger size and storage capacity. Due to its increased functionality and ability to accommodate more items, the Yeti 45 is priced higher to reflect its added value. However, the higher price is justified by the superior insulation, durability, and features that the Yeti 45 offers.
On the other hand, the Yeti 35 cooler is available at a relatively lower retail price compared to the Yeti 45. This makes it an attractive option for individuals who prioritize affordability without sacrificing quality. The Yeti 35 provides excellent value for money, considering its insulation performance, durability, and overall functionality.
Value for Money
When considering the value for money, it’s essential to evaluate the overall durability, performance, and features that a cooler offers. Both the Yeti 45 and 35 coolers are known for their exceptional quality and long-lasting performance, making them worth the investment.
The Yeti 45 cooler provides excellent value for money, especially for those who require more storage space and longer ice retention. Its durable construction, superior insulation, and various features justify its higher price point. If you plan on embarking on extended trips or needing a larger cooler for gatherings or events, the Yeti 45 offers great value for the functionality it provides.
Similarly, the Yeti 35 cooler offers exceptional value for money, particularly for individuals who prioritize portability and affordability. Despite its smaller capacity, the Yeti 35 still delivers excellent ice retention, durability, and features. If you’re looking for a versatile cooler that can accommodate your weekend adventures or day trips, the Yeti 35 offers excellent value for its price.
Customer Reviews
Positive Feedback
Customers who have purchased and used the Yeti 45 and 35 coolers have provided positive feedback, highlighting their exceptional performance and durability.
Users appreciate the superior insulation of both the Yeti 45 and 35 coolers, noting their impressive ice retention and ability to keep contents cold for extended periods. Many customers have commended the coolers’ ability to maintain ice for several days, even in hot weather conditions. This is particularly beneficial for those planning longer trips or outdoor adventures without access to regular ice replenishment.
The durability of the Yeti coolers is another aspect that receives high praise from customers. Many reviewers have mentioned the sturdy construction and robust materials used, which ensure that the coolers can withstand harsh handling, impacts, and outdoor elements. Users appreciate the peace of mind that comes with owning a cooler that can withstand rough conditions without compromising its integrity.
User-friendliness is also a common positive attribute mentioned in customer reviews. Many customers appreciate the easy-to-use latches, secure closures, and efficient drainage systems of the Yeti 45 and 35 coolers. These features contribute to a hassle-free experience when accessing and managing the contents of the coolers, making them user-friendly for individuals of all ages.
Negative Feedback
While the Yeti 45 and 35 coolers receive overwhelmingly positive reviews, there are some minor areas of improvement mentioned by a few customers.
One common point of feedback is the weight of the coolers when fully loaded. Some users have found the coolers to be heavy, especially when carrying them over longer distances or for prolonged periods. While the weight is necessary for the coolers’ durability and insulation performance, it’s worth considering if portability is a top priority for your specific needs.
Another area that receives minimal negative feedback is the price point of the coolers. While most customers appreciate the value and quality that the Yeti 45 and 35 offer, some individuals find the retail price to be on the higher side compared to other cooler brands. However, it’s important to note that the higher price is often justified by the superior insulation, durability, and features that the Yeti coolers provide.
Recommended Use
Outdoor Adventures
Both the Yeti 45 and 35 coolers are highly recommended for outdoor adventures such as camping, hiking, and backpacking trips. Their durable construction, superior insulation, and ability to retain ice for extended periods make them reliable companions for these activities.
The larger size and storage capacity of the Yeti 45 make it well-suited for extended outdoor adventures. Whether you’re camping with a group of friends or embarking on a multi-day hiking trip, the Yeti 45 provides ample space to store all your perishables and beverages. Its superior insulation ensures that your supplies remain cold and fresh throughout your adventure.
The compact size of the Yeti 35 makes it an ideal companion for day trips or shorter outdoor excursions. Whether you’re planning a fishing trip or a picnic at the park, the Yeti 35 offers sufficient storage space for your food and drinks. Its excellent ice retention capabilities guarantee that your contents stay cold and refreshing, even during the warmest days.
Camping
Camping enthusiasts will find both the Yeti 45 and 35 coolers to be excellent choices for their outdoor experiences. Whether you’re camping in a tent, RV, or cabin, having a reliable cooler is crucial for keeping your food and drinks chilled throughout your trip.
The Yeti 45 cooler’s spacious interior allows for efficient organization and storage of your camping essentials. You can easily store perishable items, beverages, and snacks, ensuring that you have everything you need for a comfortable camping experience. Its superior insulation ensures that your supplies stay cold, even in hot weather conditions, providing peace of mind during your camping trip.
For individuals who prefer a more compact cooler for their camping needs, the Yeti 35 offers excellent functionality. Its smaller size and weight make it easier to transport and maneuver in camping environments. Whether you’re camping alone or with a small group, the Yeti 35 provides ample space for your perishables and can keep your supplies cold for the duration of your camping adventure.
Fishing
When it comes to fishing trips, having a reliable cooler to store your catches and keep your beverages cold is essential. Both the Yeti 45 and 35 coolers are highly recommended for fishing enthusiasts due to their durability, insulation performance, and storage capacities.
The Yeti 45 cooler’s larger size makes it well-suited for storing your catch of the day, bait, and refreshments. Its spacious interior allows for efficient organization of your fishing supplies, ensuring that you have easy access to everything you need. The superior insulation of the Yeti 45 guarantees that your fish remains fresh, even during long fishing outings.
For individuals who prefer a more compact cooler for their fishing trips, the Yeti 35 offers excellent functionality. Its smaller size allows for easy transportation and maneuverability, making it a convenient companion for fishing excursions. The Yeti 35 is still capable of accommodating your catch and keeping your beverages cold, ensuring a successful and enjoyable fishing trip.
Tailgating
Tailgating is a popular social activity where having a reliable cooler is essential for keeping your food and drinks cold while enjoying the festivities. Both the Yeti 45 and 35 coolers are excellent choices for tailgating events due to their durability, insulation, and storage capacities.
The Yeti 45 cooler’s larger size makes it ideal for tailgating with a group of friends or family. You can store a variety of beverages, snacks, and perishables, ensuring that everyone has enough to enjoy during the event. The superior insulation of the Yeti 45 guarantees that your drinks remain cold and refreshing, even during outdoor gatherings.
For smaller tailgating parties or when you have limited space available, the Yeti 35 cooler provides excellent functionality. Its compact size allows for easy transportation and storage in your vehicle, ensuring that you can enjoy a cold beverage wherever you go. The Yeti 35 can still accommodate a sufficient amount of food and drinks for your tailgating needs, making it a versatile and convenient option.
Alternatives
Other Cooler Brands
While the Yeti 45 and 35 coolers are highly regarded for their quality and performance, there are other cooler brands available on the market that offer similar features and functionality.
One popular alternative is the Pelican cooler brand. Pelican coolers are known for their rugged construction, excellent insulation, and durability. They offer a range of sizes and capacities, making them suitable for various outdoor activities. Pelican coolers also come with features such as secure latches, efficient drainage systems, and bear-resistant certifications, providing peace of mind during your adventures.
Another notable alternative is the RTIC cooler brand. RTIC coolers are known for their affordability without compromising on quality and performance. They offer a range of sizes and capacities, allowing you to choose the right cooler for your specific needs. RTIC coolers also provide excellent insulation, durable construction, and user-friendly features that make them a popular choice among outdoor enthusiasts.
Conclusion
Final Verdict
After considering the various aspects and features of the Yeti 45 and 35 coolers, it’s safe to say that both options are excellent choices depending on your specific needs and preferences.
If you require a larger cooler with ample storage capacity and longer ice retention for extended trips or larger gatherings, the Yeti 45 cooler is the ideal option. Its robust construction, superior insulation, and numerous features make it a reliable companion for outdoor adventures and ensures the freshness of your supplies.
On the other hand, if you prioritize portability and require a more compact cooler for shorter outings or when space is limited, the Yeti 35 cooler offers excellent functionality. It provides sufficient storage space, exceptional ice retention, and reliable features, making it a versatile cooler for various outdoor activities.
Personal Preference
Ultimately, the choice between the Yeti 45 and 35 coolers comes down to personal preference and specific needs. Consider the duration of your trips, the number of people you’re catering to, the space available for transportation and storage, and your budget. Both coolers offer exceptional quality, performance, and durability, ensuring that you can enjoy your outdoor adventures with peace of mind.