Head to head
Coleman 316 120 Qt vs Igloo MaxCold 100 Qt (2027)
Head-to-head: Coleman 316 Series 120 Qt versus Igloo MaxCold 100 Qt, the two budget big coolers compared.
Coleman 316 Series 120 Qt
Enormous capacity for parties, tailgates, and basecamps.
- Capacity: 120 qt (holds 204 cans)
- Empty weight: 16 lb (7.3 kg)
Igloo MaxCold 100 Qt
The mid-size value pick with 5-day ice retention claims.
- Capacity: 100 qt (holds 160 cans)
- Empty weight: 23 lb (10.4 kg)
Our recommendation
Buy the Coleman 316 Series 120 for maximum capacity: 204 cans for the biggest crowds. Buy the Igloo MaxCold 100 for better ice retention in a still-generous 100 quarts. Capacity versus cooling is the entire decision.
Capacity
Coleman 120 quarts and 204 cans versus Igloo 100 quarts and 160 cans. For the largest gatherings the Coleman's extra 20 quarts matter; for families the Igloo's 100 is plenty.
Ice retention
Igloo's 5-day rating beats Coleman's 4-day rating at 90 degrees, reflecting the MaxCold's Ultratherm insulation in lid and body. For multi-day trips the Igloo holds an edge; for single-day events it is moot.
Features and weight
The Coleman's hinged lid with cup holders suits tailgating; the Igloo's threaded drain plug suits campsite cleanup. At 16 lb versus 23 lb empty, the Coleman is notably easier to handle.
Choose Coleman 316 Series 120 Qt if…
- You serve the largest crowds
- Tailgating features like cup holders matter
- Lighter empty weight for handling matters
Choose Igloo MaxCold 100 Qt if…
- Multi-day ice retention is the priority
- 100 quarts is enough capacity
- You value the threaded drain for cleanup
Questions, answered
Which is better for a family camping trip?
The Igloo MaxCold 100: better ice retention and 100 quarts is ample for families, with easier handling than the bigger Coleman.
Which is better for tailgating?
The Coleman 316 Series 120: maximum capacity and lid cup holders are purpose-built for parties.
Do I need either if I have a premium cooler?
Many owners run both: a rotomolded cooler for food and a big budget cooler for drinks, since drinks get opened constantly and do not need premium retention.