RTIC Ultra-Light 52.
RTIC Ultra-Light 52 — 21 lb empty (30% lighter than comparable rotomolded coolers), sub-40°F for 8 days in GearJunkie testing — roughly half the price of a Tundra 65.
The Verdict.
Gavler Meta-Score
“Yeti performance at half the price, with honest trade-offs. Lighter, ice-retention math close to Tundra, and the right pick for budget-conscious buyers who don't need decade-long abuse resistance.”
The Gavler Verdict
Where to Buy.
Prices checked regularly
90-day price history
Price History
Steady at $260 for the entire 90-day tracking window — no increases, no discounts, across 21 tracked days.
Tracked daily across retailers. Vote Want itabove and we’ll alert you the moment the price drops.
Some links are affiliate links — Gavler may earn a commission. This never affects rankings or scores. Learn more.
Precision Engineering
Injection-Molded Body
Injection-molded construction replaces heavier rotomolding to cut weight while keeping a rigid, durable outer shell.
Closed-Cell Insulation
Up to three inches of closed-cell foam insulation help the cooler hold ice for roughly a week in testing.
Sealed O-Ring Lid
An O-ring gasket lines the lid to create a tight seal that limits cold-air loss and meltwater leakage.
Technical Specifications
The Scoreboard
Testers like the strong week-long retention and notably low weight for the size, though the injection-molded shell is less rugged than true rotomolded competitors.
Cast Your Vote
Do you think RTIC Ultra-Light 52 deserves the #4 spot in Best Coolers?
Global Critique
“It's nearly 10 pounds lighter than similar-sized coolers.”
More from Best Coolers.
See how other top picks compare in this category.
