Monoprice Pure Outdoor Emperor 25 Portable Fridge Review
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In the world of outdoor recreation, the transition from traditional ice filled coolers to portable electric and battery-operated coolers has grown larger over the last couple of years. This shift reflects not just an advancement in technology but also a growing demand for convenience, efficiency, and sustainability in our outdoor adventures. The Pure Outdoor Emperor 25, a portable electric cooler from Monoprice, embodies this shift. It offers a fresh take on how we preserve our food and beverages while exploring the great outdoors. This review will delve into the specifics of this innovative product, examining its design, features, and real-world performance.
Unboxing the Pure Outdoor Emperor 25
Includes Wall Plug and Car Plug
The Pure Outdoor Emperor 25 arrived in a sturdy box. After unpacking, the first thing that struck me was its utilitarian design. It didn’t have a flashy exterior, but it was clear that the emphasis was on practical functionality rather than aesthetics.
A Closer Look at the Design
Two Compartments
The fridge is a grey color and has a large metal logo attached to the front. It’s around 23 inches wide, 14 inches deep, and 13 inches tall. The compact size means it can easily fit in my car’s trunk or on the back of my UTV.
Shallow Handles
The sides of the fridge have hidden handles which are a bit shallow, making it somewhat difficult to carry when filled to the brim. However, I found it much easier to carry from the bottom. The lid locks securely, ensuring that the cold air stays inside.
Locking Latch and Door Seal
Built-in USB Port
LCD screen is hard to read in bright conditions
One feature I found particularly useful was the built-in USB port. This allows you to charge your devices on the go. However, the Emperor 25 only includes a USB-A port, which feels a bit outdated in 2023. I would have appreciated a USB-C port or at least both types for versatility.
Ease of Use
The fridge’s controls are located on the top, along with an LCD display. Adjusting the temperature is straightforward. You press the gear button and then the ‘+’ or ‘-‘ buttons to increase or decrease the internal target temperature.
The LCD display was easily visible when it is dark, and a bit harder to make out in bright conditions.
Spacious Interior
Fits about 41 soda cans
Inside the fridge is a large main compartment and a smaller side compartment. During one of my weekend camping trips, I was able to fit enough food and drinks for breakfast, lunch, and dinner for two people, with room to spare. The internal light is a nice touch, making it easy to find items in the dark.
Easily fits two gallons of milk.
Performance Evaluation
On average the Emperor pulls around 40 watts when running
The Pure Outdoor Emperor 25 did not disappoint in terms of performance. I was able to set the temperature to just above freezing. After leaving drinks in overnight, they were chilled to perfection, hovering around 34°F.
The fridge’s insulation worked well to keep the contents cold even when not powered. It was nearly silent when running, making it ideal for quiet, peaceful camping nights.
Is the Pure Outdoor Emperor 25 Worth It?
After taking the Pure Outdoor Emperor 25 on quite a few road trips, camping trips and backcountry escapades, I would say that it’s a worthwhile investment for those who frequently go on outdoor adventures. It may not have the high-tech look or the high-contrast TFT display of some premium coolers, but it gets the job done at a fraction of the cost.
Keeps Ice Cream Frozen
Pros and Cons
Here’s a quick rundown of what I liked and didn’t like about the Pure Outdoor Emperor 25:
Pros:
- Lightweight design
- USB port for accessory power
- Can keep ice cream frozen
- Multiple power options
- Nearly silent operation
- Easy to use controls
Cons:
- Hidden handles are a bit shallow
- Outdated USB-A port
Final Thoughts on the Monoprice Pure Outdoor Emperor 25
In conclusion, the Monoprice Pure Outdoor Emperor 25 is a reliable and efficient portable fridge that offers good value for money. Its user-friendly design and efficient cooling performance make it a great addition to any outdoor gear kit. For more info on the Emperor 25, visit www.monoprice.com or www.amazon.com.
