When it comes to high-quality coolers, two brands stand out from the rest: Pelican and Yeti. Both brands have gained a loyal following among outdoor enthusiasts, and for good reason. They offer top-notch products that can keep your drinks and food cold for hours on end, even in the most extreme conditions. But which one is better? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Pelican and Yeti coolers, comparing their features, performance, and prices to help you make an informed decision.
History of Pelican and Yeti
Before we dive into the comparison, let’s take a brief look at the history of both brands.
Pelican Products, Inc. was founded in 1976 by Dave Parker and his wife, Arline. The company started out as a small manufacturer of dive lights and cases, but soon expanded its product line to include coolers, luggage, and other outdoor gear. Today, Pelican is a leading manufacturer of high-performance coolers, known for their durability and ice retention.
Yeti, on the other hand, was founded in 2006 by Roy and Ryan Seiders. The brothers were frustrated with the poor performance of traditional coolers and set out to create a better product. They introduced the first Yeti cooler, the Tundra, which quickly gained popularity among outdoor enthusiasts. Today, Yeti is a household name, synonymous with high-quality coolers and drinkware.
Features and Performance
Now that we’ve covered the history of both brands, let’s take a closer look at their features and performance.
Insulation and Ice Retention
Both Pelican and Yeti coolers are known for their excellent insulation and ice retention. They use high-quality foam insulation that keeps the cold air in and the warm air out. However, there are some differences in their insulation technology.
Pelican coolers use a proprietary insulation technology called “Polyurethane Foam Insulation.” This type of insulation is known for its high R-value, which measures its ability to resist heat flow. Pelican coolers also feature a unique “Ice Retention System” that helps to keep ice for extended periods.
Yeti coolers, on the other hand, use a technology called “PermaFrost Insulation.” This type of insulation is also high-quality, but it’s not quite as effective as Pelican’s insulation. However, Yeti coolers make up for this with their unique “Vortex Drain System,” which allows for easy draining of melted ice.
Durability and Construction
Both Pelican and Yeti coolers are built to last, with durable construction and high-quality materials. However, there are some differences in their design.
Pelican coolers feature a rugged, roto-molded design that’s resistant to scratches and cracks. They also have a unique “Press & Pull Latch System” that makes it easy to open and close the lid.
Yeti coolers, on the other hand, feature a more streamlined design that’s both functional and stylish. They also have a unique “T-Rex Lid Latch” that’s secure and easy to use.
Portability and Mobility
Both Pelican and Yeti coolers are designed to be portable, but there are some differences in their mobility.
Pelican coolers feature a unique “Molded-In Handle System” that makes it easy to carry them around. They also have a more compact design that’s easier to store in small spaces.
Yeti coolers, on the other hand, feature a more ergonomic design that’s comfortable to carry. They also have a unique “LipGrip Handle” that makes it easy to lift and move the cooler.
Price Comparison
Now that we’ve covered the features and performance of both brands, let’s take a look at their prices.
| Cooler Model | Pelican Price | Yeti Price |
|---|---|---|
| Pelican 20QT Elite Cooler | $150 | $200 (Yeti Tundra 20) |
| Pelican 30QT Elite Cooler | $200 | $250 (Yeti Tundra 35) |
| Pelican 40QT Elite Cooler | $250 | $300 (Yeti Tundra 45) |
As you can see, Pelican coolers are generally cheaper than Yeti coolers. However, it’s worth noting that both brands offer high-quality products that are worth the investment.
Conclusion
So, which is better: Pelican or Yeti? The answer ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences.
If you’re looking for a high-quality cooler with excellent insulation and ice retention, Pelican may be the better choice. Their coolers are generally cheaper than Yeti’s, but they still offer top-notch performance.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a cooler with a more stylish design and a wider range of features, Yeti may be the better choice. Their coolers are more expensive than Pelican’s, but they offer a unique combination of form and function.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to you. We recommend doing your research, reading reviews, and comparing prices before making a decision.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, both Pelican and Yeti offer high-quality coolers that are worth considering. While there are some differences in their features and performance, both brands offer excellent insulation, durability, and portability.
Whether you choose Pelican or Yeti, you can’t go wrong. Both brands offer a wide range of coolers that are designed to meet your specific needs. So, go ahead and make a decision – your next outdoor adventure awaits!
Recommendation
Based on our research and comparison, we recommend the Pelican 20QT Elite Cooler for those on a budget. This cooler offers excellent insulation and ice retention, and it’s generally cheaper than Yeti’s equivalent model.
For those who are willing to invest in a higher-end cooler, we recommend the Yeti Tundra 45. This cooler offers a unique combination of form and function, with a stylish design and a wide range of features.
Disclaimer
The prices listed in this article are subject to change and may not reflect the current market price. We recommend checking the prices at your local retailer or online marketplace before making a purchase.
What are the key differences between Pelican and Yeti coolers?
Pelican and Yeti coolers are both high-end coolers designed for outdoor enthusiasts, but they have distinct differences. One of the main differences is the material used in their construction. Pelican coolers are made from a proprietary polypropylene blend that is extremely durable and resistant to impact, while Yeti coolers are made from a rotomolded polyethylene that is also very durable but slightly more prone to scratches.
Another key difference is the insulation technology used in each cooler. Pelican coolers use a proprietary insulation called “Polyurethane Foam” that provides excellent thermal insulation, while Yeti coolers use a technology called “PermaFrost” that also provides excellent insulation but is slightly more expensive. Additionally, Pelican coolers tend to be more affordable than Yeti coolers, making them a more accessible option for those on a budget.
Which cooler is more durable, Pelican or Yeti?
Both Pelican and Yeti coolers are extremely durable and can withstand rough handling, but Pelican coolers have a slight edge in this department. Pelican coolers are made from a proprietary polypropylene blend that is highly resistant to impact, and they have been known to withstand drops and bumps without sustaining significant damage. Additionally, Pelican coolers have a more rugged design that is better suited for heavy use in harsh environments.
Yeti coolers, on the other hand, are also very durable but may be slightly more prone to scratches and dings. However, Yeti coolers are still extremely well-made and can withstand rough handling, and they have a reputation for being able to keep ice for extended periods of time even in extreme temperatures. Ultimately, both coolers are very durable, but Pelican coolers may have a slight edge in this department.
Which cooler is better for keeping ice, Pelican or Yeti?
Both Pelican and Yeti coolers are excellent at keeping ice, but Yeti coolers have a slight edge in this department. Yeti coolers use a technology called “PermaFrost” that provides excellent thermal insulation, and they have been known to keep ice for extended periods of time even in extreme temperatures. Additionally, Yeti coolers have a more advanced lid seal that helps to keep cold air in and warm air out, which also helps to keep ice for longer.
Pelican coolers, on the other hand, also use a proprietary insulation technology that provides excellent thermal insulation, but they may not be quite as effective at keeping ice as Yeti coolers. However, Pelican coolers are still excellent at keeping ice, and they have been known to keep ice for several days even in warm temperatures. Ultimately, both coolers are very effective at keeping ice, but Yeti coolers may have a slight edge in this department.
Which cooler is more affordable, Pelican or Yeti?
Pelican coolers tend to be more affordable than Yeti coolers, making them a more accessible option for those on a budget. Pelican coolers offer a range of sizes and models at different price points, and they often have sales and discounts that can make them even more affordable. Additionally, Pelican coolers are often priced lower than Yeti coolers of similar size and quality, making them a more affordable option for those who want a high-quality cooler without breaking the bank.
Yeti coolers, on the other hand, tend to be more expensive than Pelican coolers, but they are also often considered to be more premium products. Yeti coolers are known for their high-quality construction and advanced features, and they often come with a higher price tag as a result. However, many outdoor enthusiasts feel that the extra cost is worth it for the superior performance and durability of Yeti coolers.
Which cooler is better for camping, Pelican or Yeti?
Both Pelican and Yeti coolers are excellent options for camping, but the best choice will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a cooler that is extremely durable and can withstand rough handling, Pelican may be the better choice. Pelican coolers are made from a proprietary polypropylene blend that is highly resistant to impact, and they have been known to withstand drops and bumps without sustaining significant damage.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a cooler that is excellent at keeping ice and has advanced features like a built-in bottle opener, Yeti may be the better choice. Yeti coolers use a technology called “PermaFrost” that provides excellent thermal insulation, and they have been known to keep ice for extended periods of time even in extreme temperatures. Additionally, Yeti coolers often have more advanced features like built-in cup holders and tie-down points, which can be convenient for camping trips.
Can I use a Pelican or Yeti cooler for commercial purposes?
Both Pelican and Yeti coolers are high-quality coolers that can be used for commercial purposes, but they may not be the best choice for every business. Pelican coolers are often used by commercial fishermen and outdoor guides because of their extreme durability and ability to withstand rough handling. They are also often used by caterers and event planners because of their ability to keep ice for extended periods of time.
Yeti coolers are also often used by commercial businesses, particularly those in the outdoor industry. They are popular among outdoor guides and outfitters because of their advanced features and ability to keep ice in extreme temperatures. However, Yeti coolers may be more expensive than Pelican coolers, which could be a consideration for businesses on a budget. Ultimately, the best cooler for commercial purposes will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
What is the warranty on Pelican and Yeti coolers?
Both Pelican and Yeti coolers come with a warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship. Pelican coolers come with a lifetime guarantee that covers the cooler for as long as you own it, and they also offer a 30-day money-back guarantee if you’re not satisfied with your purchase. Yeti coolers also come with a 5-year warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship, and they also offer a 30-day money-back guarantee.
It’s worth noting that both Pelican and Yeti coolers are extremely well-made and are unlikely to need to be replaced under warranty. However, it’s always nice to have the peace of mind that comes with knowing that your cooler is covered in case something goes wrong. Additionally, both companies have excellent customer service and are known for standing behind their products.