Yeti 35 Vs 45 – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

Yeti 35 & 45 share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, features, and design. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the Yeti 45 rather than the Yeti 35. 

Why Do I Recommend The Yeti 45

  • The Yeti Tundra 45 has a significantly larger capacity holding 28 cans for group outings or longer trips than the Tundra 35’s 20 cans (using a 2:1 ice-to-can ratio).
  • The Tundra 45 can hold more ice (34 lbs) for potentially longer cooling periods compared to the Tundra 35’s 28 lbs.
  • The ice retention of the 45 is about 3.5 days. And the 35 is about 2.5 days. 
  • The Yeti 45 is best for large groups or longer trips, whereas the Tundra 35 is better for individuals or couples on shorter trips.

Maybe the Yeti 35 price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Yeti 45. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

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Side By Side Comparison

FeatureYeti 45Yeti 35
Capacity (Quarts)37.6 quarts28.8 quarts
External Dimensions (L x W x H)25.75″ x 16.12″ x 15.37″21.37″ x 15.75″ x 15.25″
Internal Dimensions (L x W x H)19.25″ x 10.75″ x 10.13″15.75″ x 10.37″ x 10.00″
Weight (Empty)23 lbs20 lbs
Ice Retention CapacityHolds 34 lbs of iceHolds 28 lbs of ice
Can Capacity 28 cans20 cans
Best ForLonger trips, group gatherings, and extended useShorter trips, personal outings, and portability
PortabilityLess portable due to larger size and weightMore portable, compact, and lighter weight
FootprintLarger footprint, requires more storage spaceSmaller footprint, easier to fit in vehicles
PriceCheck Yeti 45 PriceCheck Yeti 35 Price

What Common Both Can Do?

  • Build Quality: Both the Yeti Tundra 45 and 35 are constructed with durable rotomolded polyethylene. This rugged build ensures long-lasting performance, making both models ideal for demanding outdoor environments like camping, fishing, or hunting.
  • Insulation: Both coolers are equipped with PermaFrost™ insulation, which is pressure-injected to provide superior ice retention. This allows them to keep ice solid for days, regardless of their size differences.
  • Bear-Resistant Design: Both models are certified bear-resistant when secured with locks, offering peace of mind during outdoor adventures in bear-prone areas.
  • Non-Slip Feet: Both coolers feature BearFoot™ non-slip feet to ensure stability, even on wet or uneven surfaces, preventing the cooler from sliding during transport or use.
  • Tie-Down Slots: Integrated tie-down slots in both models allow users to secure the cooler to a vehicle, boat, or other surfaces, making them highly versatile and suitable for transport.
  • Drainage System: The Vortex™ drain system in both coolers provides an efficient way to drain melted ice and water without needing to tilt the cooler.
  • T-Rex™ Lid Latches: Heavy-duty rubber lid latches are standard on both models, ensuring a tight seal and the durability to withstand frequent use.
  • Interlock Lid System: The lid design on both models features an InterLock™ system, creating an overlapping barrier to block out heat and maximize ice retention.
  • Gasket Seal: Both models are equipped with ColdLock™ gaskets around the lid, ensuring a secure and tight seal to keep warm air out and cold air in.
  • Handles: Both coolers come with double haul handles, made with military-grade rope for easy carrying and durability, even under heavy loads.
  • Color Options: Yeti offers both models in a range of colors, allowing users to choose their preferred look and style while enjoying the same premium quality.

Common Features

FeatureYeti 45Yeti 35
MaterialRotomolded polyethyleneRotomolded polyethylene
InsulationPermaFrost™ pressure-injected insulationPermaFrost™ pressure-injected insulation
Bear-ResistantCertified bear-resistantCertified bear-resistant
Non-Slip FeetBearFoot™ non-slip feetBearFoot™ non-slip feet
Tie-Down SlotsBuilt-in slotsBuilt-in slots
Drainage SystemVortex™ drain systemVortex™ drain system
Lid LatchesT-Rex™ heavy-duty rubber latchesT-Rex™ heavy-duty rubber latches
Interlock Lid SystemInterLock™ lid systemInterLock™ lid system
Gasket SealColdLock™ gasketColdLock™ gasket
HandlesDouble haul handlesDouble haul handles
Color OptionsAvailable in a range of colorsAvailable in a range of colors
Price Check Yeti 45 Price Check Yeti 35 Price

FAQ

Do the Yeti Tundra 45 and 35 offer the same level of insulation performance?
Yes, both models feature the same PermaFrost™ insulation, providing excellent ice retention for several days. The difference in ice retention duration is minimal and mainly influenced by their size and capacity.

Are both models certified as bear-resistant?
Yes, both the Tundra 45 and Tundra 35 are certified bear-resistant when secured with proper locks. This makes them ideal for outdoor adventures in bear-prone areas.

Are the Yeti Tundra 45 and 35 equally portable?
No, the Tundra 35 is more portable due to its smaller size and lighter weight (20 lbs vs. 23 lbs). The Tundra 45 is bulkier and better suited for larger groups or when more storage capacity is needed.

Do both coolers have the same durability?
Yes, both models are made of rotomolded polyethylene, ensuring the same rugged durability for handling rough outdoor conditions.

Can I tie down both coolers during transport?
Yes, both the Tundra 45 and 35 come with built-in tie-down slots, allowing you to secure them easily during transportation.

Do the Yeti Tundra 45 and 35 come with the same drainage system?
Yes, both models are equipped with the Vortex™ drain system, which ensures quick and easy water drainage without needing to tilt the cooler.

Are there any differences in the lid design between the two models?
No, both the Tundra 45 and 35 have the same InterLock™ lid system and ColdLock™ gasket to create a tight seal, keeping cold air in and warm air out.

What type of handles do the Yeti Tundra 45 and 35 have?
Both coolers feature double haul handles made of military-grade polyester rope, ensuring durability and ease of carrying.

Do both models come in the same color options?
Yes, Yeti offers both the Tundra 45 and 35 in a variety of colors, giving users plenty of options to match their style preferences.

Which cooler is better for shorter trips or personal use?
The Tundra 35 is better suited for shorter trips or personal use due to its smaller size, lighter weight, and easier portability.

Which cooler is better for larger groups or extended trips?
The Tundra 45 is ideal for larger groups or extended trips as it offers more storage capacity for ice, cans, or food.

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