Milwaukee Compact Cooler

The Milwaukee Compact Cooler, model 48-22-8460, has quickly become an essential part of my daily toolkit, whether I'm on a job site or heading out for a day at the beach. Its integration with Milwaukee's Packout system is a significant selling point, making it easy to stack and transport alongside my other Packout gear. But beyond just fitting into a modular system, this cooler has several features that make it stand out—though not without its drawbacks.

Build and Design

One of the first things you'll notice about this cooler is its robust construction. Made from impact-resistant polymers, it's clear that durability was a priority in its design. The heavy-duty latches and reinforced hinge add to its rugged feel, ensuring that it can withstand the bumps and knocks of a busy job site or an adventurous weekend trip. The no-sweat exterior is a nice touch, preventing condensation from making a mess in your vehicle or workspace.

The cooler is IP65 rated, offering excellent protection against dust and water ingress. This is particularly useful in harsh environments where job site debris and weather conditions can be unpredictable. The integrated bottle opener is a small but thoughtful addition that I've found surprisingly handy on more than one occasion. Inside, the cooler features an interior storage tray that keeps smaller items like sandwiches or snacks dry and separate from the ice.

Performance

Milwaukee advertises that this cooler can hold ice for over 30 hours, but my experience has been mixed. In moderate temperatures, the cooler does a commendable job of keeping ice for up to 24 hours. However, in hotter conditions, particularly during summer, the ice tends to melt faster, often within 10-12 hours. This is somewhat disappointing, especially when compared to high-end coolers like Yeti, which offer superior insulation. The cooler's weight capacity is 50 lbs, which is more than adequate for a day's worth of food and drinks.

Practicality and Usability

The cooler's dimensions—16.2 inches in length, 13 inches in height, and 9.8 inches in width—make it compact yet spacious enough to hold up to 20 cans. It's lightweight at 7 lbs, making it easy to carry even when fully loaded. However, the handle design can be a bit of a nuisance if you have other Packout boxes stacked on top, as they need to be removed to use the handle.

One feature that some might miss is a drain plug. While the cooler is small enough to tip and drain manually, a drain plug would add convenience, especially when dealing with a lot of melted ice. The interior tray is a great addition, keeping items separate and dry, although it can sometimes shift out of place if the cooler is jostled around too much.

Issues and Concerns

While the build quality is generally excellent, there have been instances where the handle or latches have failed. In my case, the handle has held up well, but it's something to be aware of, especially if you're planning to carry the cooler frequently. Another issue is the cooler's insulation. Unlike other premium coolers that use foam insulation, this one appears to have less effective insulation material, which impacts its ability to keep ice for the advertised 30 hours.

Versatility

Despite its shortcomings in insulation, the cooler is versatile. I use it not only for job sites but also for beach outings, camping trips, and even as an additional storage box when needed. Its ability to integrate with the Packout system makes it incredibly convenient for transporting alongside other tools and gear. The cooler's sturdy design also means it can double as a makeshift seat or table in a pinch, which is a nice bonus.

Final Thoughts

The Milwaukee Compact Cooler is a solid addition to the Packout system, offering durability, portability, and some useful features. However, its insulation performance leaves something to be desired, especially in warmer conditions. If you're already invested in the Packout system, this cooler is a convenient and functional addition that integrates seamlessly with your existing gear.

Would I recommend this cooler? If you're looking for a durable, job site-ready cooler that fits into the Packout system, then yes, this cooler is worth considering. However, if superior ice retention is a top priority for you, you might want to explore other options that offer better insulation. In summary, the Milwaukee Compact Cooler is a reliable and versatile tool that excels in portability and durability but falls short in ice retention.