Skip to content 
Chances are high that you are familiar with both, YETI and RTIC. They offer similar products across the board, from hard and soft coolers, to drinkware, apparel, outdoor items and even options for best furry pal – your pup! But what are the differences between these two brands, and which is right for you?
YETI was founded in 2006 with the mission of creating the perfect cooler. And they’ve certainly succeeded, as their coolers are now regarded as some of the best on the market! RTIC was founded in 2015 with the goal of providing high-quality products at a more affordable price than what was currently on the market. And they’ve definitely delivered on that promise, as their products are often just as good as (if not better than) their more expensive counterparts. When it comes to coolers, both brands are known for high-quality products that can keep your food and drinks cold for hours on end. But let’s drill down a bit here and toss around a little compare and contrast.
YETI vs. RTIC: Price
One of the biggest differences between YETI and RTIC is price. YETI products are typically more expensive than RTIC products. For example, a YETI tumbler might cost $30 while an RTIC tumbler might cost $20.
Winner: RTIC
YETI vs. RTIC: Quality
When it comes to quality, YETI and RTIC are both top-notch brands. However, some people argue that YETI’s products are slightly better in terms of quality. Argue being the key word here.
Winner: YETI
YETI vs. RTIC: Warranty
Both YETI and RTIC offer a limited warranty on their products. However, YETI’s warranty is slightly more comprehensive than RTIC’s. For example, YETI’s warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship for five years, while RTIC’s only covers them for one year.
Winner: YETI
The Breakdown on Yeti and RTIC Coolers:
- RTIC coolers are overall more budget friendly than YETI’s options.
- Yeti coolers are available in a wider range of sizes and colors.
- Both feature drain plugs on the bottom of the hard coolers for easy draining
So, which brand is better? It really depends on your needs and your budget. Both deliver high quality. If you’re looking for a cooler that will keep your food and drinks cold for hours – sometimes even days on end, then Yeti might be the way to go. However, if you’re looking for quality option, that is a bit more budget friendly, RTIC is absolutely a great option and will still provide you with a great cooler.
The Breakdown on Yeti and RTIC Drinkware:
- Yeti Drinkware is dishwasher safe, while RTIC’s are not. That can be kind of a game changer.
- Yeti is typically better at keeping your hot beverages, hot.
- RTIC is more affordable
- RTIC keeps your cold beverage, cold!
Both offer a wide range of drinkware options, including tumblers, mugs, and bottles. The tumblers, mugs and bottles are available in a variety of colors and sizes. All are double-wall insulated and made with 18/8 stainless steel, along with a sweat-proof design. As we mentioned above, YETI’s drinkware is dishwasher safe, while RTIC’s is not. Both companies offer customizations, so these coveted tumbler’s mugs and more can be personalized for the perfect gift for just about anyone!
The Breakdown from Brostrick:
Our personal thoughts? We own and use both brands. Living in the Northeast, and spending more than our fair amount of time in the cold – whether it’s outdoors in the winter, or indoors in the rink (still freezing by the way), we have found that our hot coffee did stay hotter, longer in our YETI. It was still hot even if we hadn’t finished it yet by the end of a game. But were we mad if our RTIC was the only clean travel mug left in the cabinet? Not at all. We also own both cooler brands and while the YETI cooler truly gets it done for long hot days on the beach, our RTIC backpack cooler is extremely easy and convenient to carry – but also keeps everything we stash at the perfect temperature – at a better price point. In fact, we’ve been the envy of many at our overnight hockey tournaments as we stroll from point A to point B hands free!
At the end of the day, it really depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re willing to pay a bit more for slightly higher quality, then YETI might be the better option for you. However, if you’re looking for a great value, then RTIC is definitely worth purchasing. You almost can’t go wrong.
