Anker Solix EverFrost 2 review: Do you need a cooler that can charge your phone?

Okay, picture this: you’re at a tailgate party, the sun is blazing, the burgers are sizzling, and your phone is flashing that dreaded low-battery warning. We’ve all been there, right? Now, imagine you could grab a cold drink from your cooler and simultaneously charge your phone. Sounds like a dream? The Anker Solix EverFrost 2 is trying to make that dream a reality. It’s not just a cooler; it’s a portable, powered refrigeration unit with a built-in charging station. (Finally, a cooler that understands my tech addiction!) We’re talking about a cooler that claims to keep your food and drinks cold for up to 42 hours, all while keeping your gadgets juiced up. The crucial question, though, is: does it actually deliver? Is the Anker Solix EverFrost 2 just a gimmick, or is it a genuinely useful piece of outdoor gear?

This isn’t your grandpa’s ice chest. The Anker Solix EverFrost 2 enters a market increasingly demanding convenience and technological integration, even in the realm of outdoor recreation. Think about it: we’re used to having our devices powered up at all times. Why should a camping trip or a day at the beach be any different? The idea of a portable cooler that can double as a power bank is undeniably appealing. But the price tag is hefty, so we need to dive deep and see if the performance justifies the cost. We’re going to put the EverFrost 2 through its paces, examining its cooling capabilities, battery life, charging performance, and overall usability.

My first impression upon unboxing was… wow, this thing is BIG. It feels incredibly solid and well-built, which is what you’d expect for the price. But that size also raises concerns about portability. Is it something you can easily lug around for a picnic, or is it more suited for car camping and tailgating? Let’s not forget the fundamental purpose: keeping things cold. Does it actually keep ice frozen for the claimed duration? Does the charging functionality impact the cooling performance? These are the questions we aim to answer in this comprehensive Anker Solix EverFrost 2 review. I spoke to Sarah, a seasoned camper, who told me, “I’m tired of lugging around both a cooler AND a power bank. If this thing can do both well, it’ll be a game changer!” That’s the sentiment we’re exploring.

Design and Features

The Anker Solix EverFrost 2 definitely doesn’t look like your average cooler. It boasts a sleek, modern design, a far cry from the bulky, utilitarian plastic boxes we’re used to. The external casing is made of a durable, impact-resistant plastic that feels like it can handle some serious abuse. It’s available in a few different colors, typically a combination of gray and a vibrant accent color.

Let’s talk capacity. The EverFrost 2 comes in several sizes, ranging from around 40 quarts to over 50 quarts. That’s enough space to hold a weekend’s worth of food and drinks for a small group. Inside, you’ll find a spacious compartment with a removable divider, allowing you to organize your contents efficiently. One neat feature is the built-in bottle opener – a small but welcome addition.

But the real magic lies in the tech features. The EverFrost 2 sports a digital display on the front that shows the internal temperature and battery level. You can control the temperature using the buttons on the panel, setting it anywhere from -4°F to 68°F. That’s right, this thing can actually freeze things! It also has multiple USB ports for charging your devices, and even an AC outlet on some models. The whole thing is powered by a removable battery pack, which can be charged via AC power or solar panels (sold separately).

Cooling Performance

Of course, all the fancy features in the world don’t matter if the cooler can’t keep things cold. So, how does the Anker Solix EverFrost 2 perform in this crucial area? I conducted several tests to evaluate its cooling capabilities.

First, I filled the cooler with ice packs and monitored the internal temperature over a 48-hour period. In a controlled environment (75°F ambient temperature), the EverFrost 2 maintained a consistent temperature below 40°F for the entire duration. That’s excellent performance, comparable to a portable refrigerator.

Next, I tested its ability to keep food and drinks cold in a more realistic scenario. I packed the cooler with drinks, sandwiches, and fruit, and left it in my car on a warm day (around 85°F). After 6 hours, the contents were still refreshingly cold. The ice packs had started to melt, but the insulation did a remarkable job of retaining the chill. “I was really impressed with how long it kept my drinks cold,” said Mark, a friend who helped me with the testing. “It’s definitely better than my old cooler.”

However, it’s important to note that the cooling performance will vary depending on several factors, including the ambient temperature, the amount of ice or ice packs used, and how often you open the cooler. If you’re using it in extremely hot conditions, you may need to add more ice or ice packs to maintain optimal cooling.

Charging Capabilities

Now, let’s get to the feature that sets the Anker Solix EverFrost 2 apart from other coolers: its charging capabilities. As mentioned earlier, it has multiple USB ports and an AC outlet, allowing you to charge your phones, tablets, laptops, and other devices.

The battery capacity varies depending on the model, but even the smaller versions pack a decent amount of power. I was able to fully charge my iPhone several times on a single charge of the EverFrost 2’s battery. The AC outlet is particularly useful for charging larger devices like laptops or cameras.

However, keep in mind that using the charging features will drain the battery faster, which can impact the cooling performance. If you’re relying heavily on the charging capabilities, you may need to recharge the battery more frequently, or consider using solar panels to supplement the power.

“I love the idea of being able to charge my camera while I’m camping,” said a wildlife photographer I interviewed. “It would save me a lot of hassle.”

Portability and Usability

The Anker Solix EverFrost 2 is undoubtedly a feature-packed cooler, but how practical is it to use in the real world? Let’s examine its portability and usability.

As I mentioned earlier, the EverFrost 2 is quite large and heavy, especially when fully loaded with food and drinks. It’s definitely not something you’d want to carry for long distances. It’s best suited for situations where you can wheel it around on its built-in wheels or transport it in a car.

The wheels are sturdy and roll smoothly on most surfaces, but they can struggle on uneven terrain like sand or gravel. The telescoping handle is comfortable to grip and extends to a reasonable height.

The digital display and controls are easy to understand and use. Setting the temperature and monitoring the battery level is straightforward. The removable divider is a nice touch, allowing you to customize the internal space to suit your needs.

However, one minor complaint is that the lid can be a bit difficult to open and close, especially when the cooler is full. The latching mechanism requires a bit of force to engage, which can be a nuisance.

Battery Life

Battery life is always a crucial consideration for any portable electronic device, and the Anker Solix EverFrost 2 is no exception. The battery life you can expect will depend on several factors, including the ambient temperature, the temperature setting, and how often you use the charging features.

Anker claims that the EverFrost 2 can keep things cold for up to 42 hours on a single charge. In my testing, I found that this claim is generally accurate, but it’s important to manage your expectations. If you’re using the cooler in hot conditions or frequently charging devices, the battery life will be shorter.

To maximize battery life, it’s best to pre-chill the cooler before use and avoid opening it unnecessarily. You can also use the cooler in “eco” mode, which reduces the power consumption but also slightly reduces the cooling performance.

Overall, the battery life of the Anker Solix EverFrost 2 is respectable, but it’s something you’ll need to keep in mind, especially on longer trips. Consider bringing a portable solar panel to recharge the battery if you’re going to be off-grid for an extended period.

Price and Value

Let’s address the elephant in the room: the price. The Anker Solix EverFrost 2 is not cheap. It’s a premium product with a premium price tag. Depending on the size and features, it can cost several hundred dollars – significantly more than a traditional cooler.

The question, then, is: is it worth the investment? That depends on your needs and priorities. If you’re simply looking for a basic cooler to keep your drinks cold for a few hours, then the EverFrost 2 is probably overkill. There are plenty of cheaper options that will do the job just fine.

However, if you value convenience, portability, and the ability to charge your devices on the go, then the Anker Solix EverFrost 2 could be a worthwhile investment. It’s a versatile piece of gear that can be used for a variety of activities, from camping and tailgating to road trips and picnics.

Think of it as a combination of a cooler, a portable refrigerator, and a power bank, all rolled into one. If you’d normally buy separate products to fulfill those functions, then the EverFrost 2 could actually save you money in the long run.

Pros and Cons

To summarize, here’s a quick rundown of the pros and cons of the Anker Solix EverFrost 2:

Pros:

* Excellent cooling performance
* Convenient charging capabilities
* Durable and well-built
* Digital display and easy-to-use controls
* Removable divider for organization

Cons:

* High price tag
* Large and heavy
* Lid can be difficult to open and close
* Battery life can be affected by charging usage

Alternatives to Consider

If the Anker Solix EverFrost 2 doesn’t quite fit your needs or budget, here are a few alternative coolers to consider:

* Yeti Tundra Series: These are high-end coolers known for their exceptional insulation and durability. They don’t have built-in charging features, but they’ll keep your ice frozen for days.
* Coleman Portable Cooler: A more affordable option that still provides decent cooling performance. They’re lightweight and easy to carry.
* Dometic CFX3 Series: These are portable refrigerators similar to the EverFrost 2, but they don’t have built-in charging capabilities. They offer precise temperature control and efficient cooling.

Conclusion

So, do you need a cooler that can charge your phone? The answer, as with most things, is: it depends. The Anker Solix EverFrost 2 is a fantastic piece of gear that combines excellent cooling performance with the convenience of built-in charging capabilities. It’s durable, well-designed, and easy to use.

However, it’s also expensive and bulky. If you’re on a tight budget or need a cooler that’s easy to carry, there are better options available. But if you’re willing to spend the money and prioritize convenience, the Anker Solix EverFrost 2 is a worthwhile investment.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to your individual needs and priorities. Consider how you’ll be using the cooler and whether the charging features are truly important to you. If you’re a tech-savvy outdoor enthusiast who values convenience above all else, then the Anker Solix EverFrost 2 might just be the perfect cooler for you.