RTIC 52-Quart Ultra-Light Cooler vs Pelican Products, Inc. Pelican Elite 50QT

Durability is crucial for campers who need a cooler that can withstand rough handling and outdoor conditions. A more durable cooler ensures longevity and reliability, especially in rugged environments. The Pelican Elite 50QT excels in this category with its thick-walled construction, heavy-duty latches, and a lifetime warranty. It is certified grizzly bear resistant and built to last, making it a reliable choice for rugged outdoor use. The RTIC 52-Quart Ultra-Light Cooler, while durable, has some reports of minor scuffs or cracks over time, making it less robust compared to the Pelican. For campers who need a cooler that can handle extreme conditions, the Pelican Elite 50QT is the clear winner.

Ice retention is a key factor for campers who need their food and drinks to stay cold for extended periods. Better ice retention means longer trips without worrying about spoilage. The RTIC 52-Quart Ultra-Light Cooler outperforms the Pelican Elite 50QT in this category, with excellent insulation and a tight seal that keeps ice frozen for days. The RTIC's thicker lid and well-insulated design give it an edge, making it ideal for extended camping trips. While the Pelican also offers strong cooling performance, the RTIC's superior ice retention makes it the better choice for those who prioritize keeping their contents cold.

Portability is essential for campers who need to transport their cooler easily to and from their campsite. A more portable cooler is easier to carry and maneuver, especially when fully loaded. The RTIC 52-Quart Ultra-Light Cooler is the clear winner in this category, being lightweight and equipped with smooth-rolling wheels and comfortable handles. It is designed to be ultra-portable, making it easier to transport compared to the heavier and bulkier Pelican Elite 50QT. The Pelican's weight and bulk can make it difficult to move, especially when full, making the RTIC the better choice for those who prioritize ease of transport.

Ease of use is important for campers who want a cooler that is simple to open, close, and transport. A cooler that is easier to use enhances the overall camping experience. The RTIC 52-Quart Ultra-Light Cooler excels in this category with features like soft-close latches and easy-to-grip handles, making it simple to open, close, and transport, even for kids. The Pelican Elite 50QT, while easy to operate with its press-and-pull latches and sloped downspout, is not as user-friendly as the RTIC. For campers who value convenience and ease of use, the RTIC is the better choice.

Build quality is crucial for ensuring the cooler can withstand the rigors of outdoor use and last for many trips. A cooler with better build quality offers long-term durability and performance. Both the RTIC 52-Quart Ultra-Light Cooler and the Pelican Elite 50QT are well-built, with solid construction and high-quality materials. The RTIC features rotomolded plastic and reinforced seams, while the Pelican boasts thick-walled construction and heavy-duty latches. Given the similar build quality of both coolers, this category is a tie.

Convenience features enhance the overall camping experience by adding functionality and versatility to the cooler. More convenience features mean added benefits for campers. Both the RTIC 52-Quart Ultra-Light Cooler and the Pelican Elite 50QT are packed with thoughtful extras. The RTIC includes a mesh pocket, bottle opener, and drain plug, while the Pelican offers built-in cup holders, a bottle opener, and a ruler. With both coolers offering a range of convenient features, this category is a tie.