Yeti 45 vs 50 Compared: Which Is The Better Pick?

When it comes to outdoor coolers, YETI doesn’t need an introduction. YETI coolers have been around on the market for more than 6 decades. This cooler company was started by two brothers and is still going strong as a family business today.

YETI is the leading brand for coolers globally, known especially for its sturdy products and their ice retention. YETI makes coolers in all shapes and sizes, maintaining quality throughout their product line. In this article, we will be reviewing YETI’s two best-selling coolers from the Tundra line, YETI Tundra 45 vs 50. We have also covered other YETI coolers if you want to check them out.

Main Differences Between YETI Tundra 45 vs Tundra 50

The main differences between YETI Tundra 45 and 50 are:

• YETI 45 has a 45-quart capacity and can hold up to 38 cans of beers with a 2:1 ice to can ratio, whereas the YETI 50 has a 50-quart capacity and can hold up to 35 cans of beers with a 2:1 ice to can ratio.
• YETI 45 is readily available at the YETI, whereas the YETI 50 is only available in select online and retail stores.
• YETI 45 can hold ice for 5-6 days, whereas the YETI 50 can hold ice for 8 days.
• YETI 45 is cheaper than YETI 50.

Exploring YETI Tundra 45 and 50 Features

Carrying Capacity

The carrying capacity of a cooler can be defined by the amount of food and drinks you can carry along in the cooler and is measured in quarts. For ease in the camping business, the capacity is compared to the number of beer cans it can hold.

The YETI 45 is smaller than the YETI 50, as the name suggests. It can carry up to 28 cans of beer at once. The ice ratio and the beer come to 2:1 to make sure the beer or drinks stay cold. Almost 24 pounds of pure can be stored in the YETI 45.

The YETI 50 is bigger than the YETI 45 and can store up to 35 cans of beer. The ice ratio and the beer comes to 2:1, that is, 2 pieces of ice per 1 can of beer. It can store up to 45 pounds of pure ice.

Durability

Durability is key to a cooler. YETI is one of the most durable coolers out in the market for camping purposes. YETI has proven to endure all kinds of weather and terrain without incurring extensive damage.

The durability of both the YETI 45 and YETI 50 are the same and can be compared with their competitors.

The YETI Tundra line features the Rotomolded construction, which means that the YETI tundra frames are virtually indestructible to impacts and outdoor construction. The rotomolded construction means that one piece is bent into a box, ensuring equal thickness in all corners without leaving any sharp edges to avoid damage. It is made of a thick plastic polymer with fiberglass covering it on the outside.

It also features strong lid latches and a hinge system. All outdoor coolers weaken out on the latch system, but YETI has made its Tundra line coolers using a patented T-REX Lid latch system accompanied by a Neverfail hinge system. This means that the cooler will be good and ready to move even in the roughest condition without failing to do what it’s made for.

Ice Life

Ice retention is the main purpose of any camping cooler. The ice retention of the cooler compliments the immaculate insulation of the inner compartment. The ice retention in all the Tundra lines has been proven better than the ones available on the market.

The YETI 45 can retain ice for up to 6 days, whereas the YETI 50 can retain the same amount of ice for 8 days. This comparison is available for the best suitable conditions and can vary depending on extreme weather conditions.

YETI Tundra line coolers feature permafrost insulation. It is the most effective insulation material available on the market. It’s a pressure-injected commercial-grade polyurethane foam that is generally known as Permafrost. The inner compartment walls of the YETI Tundra 45 and 50 have permafrost lining all around to ensure maximum insulation.

Another feature YETI has to maximize insulation is the interlock lid system. The interlock lid system eliminates the invisible gap between the cover and the cooler and maximizes the span of ice retention. In addition, the featured interlock lid mechanism creates a barrier between the outside and insides of the cooler, which is not available in its competitors on the market.

The YETI tundra line has another feature known as the Coldlock gasket, which is a component added to only Tundra coolers to completely seal the lid. YETI Tundra 45 and 50 have the gasket lined to the lid’s entire border to keep the cold in and block the heat from entering inside.

Weight

A heavy cooler is always a hassle if it means you need to carry it. However, it is almost impossible to add high-quality material in a top-quality cooler without it being heavy. But carrying an extra 20 pounds to keep your refreshments fresh throughout your hike or camping trip can be a bargain if you ask us.

The YETI Tundra 45 weighs around 23 pounds, while the YETI Tundra 50 weighs around 26 pounds. So yes, it’s added weight, but a couple of extra pounds can’t undermine the perks of such a cooler.

Cooler Drain

Ice in the cooler starts to melt after days of carrying it around. Toppling it over becomes a nuisance if done alone and in the wrong way.

The YETI tundra 45 and 50 both feature a drain system to help empty the box’s contents. It also helps in cleaning the box thoroughly when needed.

Handles

YETI tundra 45 and 50 both feature the DoubleHaul handles. The handles are placed on either side and are made of a highly durable polyester rope which is military grade. Having the LipGrip handles makes it easy to carry heavier loads reducing fatigue on the hands.

The positioning of the handles on either side indicates that it is a two-person job to carry the load. The handles can withstand heavy loads.

Tie-Down Slots

The YETI Tundra 45 and 50 both feature tie-down slots to tie the coolers to your car or truck carefully without causing trouble. The arch point tie-down slots make the mounting job easier.

Appearance

Both the YETI Tundra 45 and 50 look similar. The only difference between them would be their size. The YETI Tundra 45 is available in different color schemes, while the YETI 50 has only one color available, probably because it usually remains out of stock.

For the most part, these coolers look extremely similar. If you get them in the same color, you’d probably only be able to tell them apart by comparing their sizes. They have a simple, no-bells, no-whistled appearance.

Accessories

The YETI Tundra 45 and 50 are compatible to use the same accessories. The accessories can enhance the user experience and make up for any slight discomfort in their application.

The Tundra line also provides spare parts if they need replacement in the long run. Below mentioned is a list of accessories that can be bought separately.

• Seat Cushion
• Seadek
• Dividers
• Tie-Down Kit
• Beverage holder rack
• Rod Holster
• YETI Ice packs
• Locking bracket
• Corner chock set
• YETI Tundra baskets
• YETI Tundra Sliding Feet

Looking for a cooler that’s just made for camping? We have ranked the best camping coolers in 2021!

Comparing YETI Tundra 45 and 50 pricing

The YETI Tundra 45 sells for around $350, while the YETI Tundra 50 is slightly more expensive. The price of the YETI Tundra 50 can vary depending on other third part dealers, and you might just break a deal with them on stock clearances.

The price difference amongst the coolers is minor, but it depends on the user’s budget if he is willing to pay that little bit extra for more cargo space.

In our view, the price difference is negligible for the amount of extra space the YETI Tundra 50 offers compared to the YETI Tundra 45. A cooler will sort all your beverage needs, but what about food? Check out our guide on the best mess kit options you can buy for a perfect camping experience!

Pros and Cons

YETI 45

Pros of the YETI Tundra 45

• High-quality build
• Well-insulated
• Military-grade handles on both sides
• Cheaper than the YETI Tundra 50
• No chances of leakage
• Strong Hinges
• Coldlock gasket for extra insulation

Cons of the YETI Tundra 45

• Less ice retention capability than the YETI Tundra 50
• Less space than the YETI Tundra 50
• One person cannot carry it
• Expensive

YETI 50

Pros of YETI Tundra 50

• Can hold up to 35 cans
• Longer ice retention capability
• Rotomolded construction
• Coldlock gasket for extra insulation
• Strong hinges
• Thick insulation
• Military-grade handle on both sides

Cons of the YETI Tundra 50

• Slightly more expensive than the YETI Tundra 45
• Not available easily on the market
• Has only one color scheme
• Heavier than the YETI Tundra 45

Can’t decide between Otterbox and YETI coolers? Check out our Otterbox vs YETI comparison to make an informed choice on your next cooler purchase!

Are There Any Alternatives?

Tourit Backpack Cooler

The Tourit Backpack Cooler is a backpack cooler that is relatively new in the market, but it has left its mark with quality and durability. The Tourit Backpack cooler is light and extremely durable. In addition, the company offers a lifetime guarantee on the backpack to show off its durability.

The Tourit backpack cooler is made of a leak-proof, durable fabric. The dimensions of the backpack are 18 x 14 x 10 inches. The weight of the Tourit backpack cooler is around 5 pounds and has a volume of 21 quarts. The outer covering of the backpack is made of strong fiber-like fabric, making it resistant to water, punctures, and UV damage. As a result, it is ideal for camping, hiking, and other outdoor camping activities.

The Tourit backpack also has an FDA-approved inner lining to retain ice for up to 36 hours. It also has pockets to store electronic gadgets and other ems to avoid the risk of getting wet in rainy seasons. The Tourit backpack features a shoulder strap and an adjustable chest strap to promote ease in carrying and avoid back fatigue in longer hauls.

Compared to the YETI Tundra 45 and 50, it is a lightweight, soft cooler that does the job for a single person. The Tourit backpack cooler is not as durable as the YETI Tundra 45 or the YETI Tundra 50 and also cannot carry the same load as them nor retain ice as well.

Pros of the Tourit backpack cooler

• Durable fabric immune to puncture and weather
• Lifetime warranty
• Can hold ice up to 36 hours
• Comfortable to carry and can be carried by a single person
• Affordable

Cons of the Tourit backpack cooler

• Small storage compartment
• Zipper can get jammed

RTIC 45 Tan

The RTIC coolers have been a hit among recent camping enthusiasts. It is cheap, affordable, and does a good job. It is a mid-sized cooler with dimensions 15.5 x 27 x 17 inches and weighs around 26 pounds. The RTIC 45 Tan has a great ice retention capacity lasting up to 10 days. The RTIC 45 Tan can hold 45 cans of beer with the ice to can ratio of 1.5:1.

The RTIC Tan 45 is also very durable; the corners are sealed and can take a beating thanks to its rotomolded construction. The insulation in the inner compartment is around 3 inches thick. RTIC 45 Tan can be used to keep foods fresh during camping trips. Every cooler does that. The RTIC can serve as a bench, a stool, a tabletop, and its nonsliding top, and a cutting board.

Compared to the YETI Tundra 45 and YETI Tundra 50, RTIC gives them tough competition. But one major drawback of the RTIC is the water leakage problem which has made them suffer in the camping market.

Pros of the RTIC 45 Tan

• Ice retention up to 10 days
• Rotomolded construction
• Weather-resistant
• Bigger inner compartment

Cons of the RTIC 45 Tan

• Has an issue of water leakage

Igloo Stainless steel cooler, 54 quart

Another great competitor for the YETI Tundra 45 and 50 is the Igloo’s stainless steel, 54-quart cooler. It is a stylish entry into the cooler market. No doubt it is going to turn heads at a party or even at a beach. Its dimensions are 24.45 x 15.87 x 16.5 inches and weigh only 16.55 Pounds with a volume of 50 quarts.

The body lid of the Igloo is made of durable, rust-resistant stainless steel sheets. It gives a shiny finish to the surface. It can also be used as a tabletop or a bench.

The Igloo cooler features Cool Riser technology, which elevates the cooling performance away from hot surfaces. It also has a stainless steel bottle opener for you to enjoy your beer without the need to carry an opener along. It has stainless steel handles on either side to carry the load and share it with two persons.

It features a triple snap, leak-resistant drain plug for ease in draining and cleaning the cooler. The hinges are also made of stainless steel and feature a zinc-plated hatch for increased durability.

Pros of the Igloo Stainless steel cooler

• The whole body is made of steel for durability
• It is lightweight
• Can hold ice up to 10 days
• It has a triple snap leak-resistant drain for ease in cleaning and draining the cooler
• Looks great

Cons of the Igloo Stainless steel cooler

• Hinges and snaps might get faulty
• The metal can get scratched easily

If you are looking for some good backpack coolers, check out our guide on the 5 best backpack coolers in 2021!

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