Essentially part of the YETI Tundra Cooler line, the Roadie 20 is the smallest version out of the 20-350 Quart range.
With its 20 Quart capacity, the Roadie 20 is not really an alternative to a 12V fridge-freezer even on short overland trips, but only due to its size. Otherwise, it is a very capable box to keep your perishables fresh!
We have already compared the YETI 35 vs Yeti 45, but how does the Roadie 20 compare to the YETI Tundra 35?
Review and Comparison: Choose the Yeti 20 or 35?
As we have mentioned in our 35 vs 45 comparison, the Tundra coolers have a sturdy build which can withstand rough handling. First, let’s have a look at the features of the 20 and 35 quart YETI, where there is no difference between the two.
Features common to both coolers:
- Fatwall design and Permafrost insulation for extra long ice retention
- Rotomolded construction for durability
- Patented T-Rex Lid Latches also designed for durability
- ColdLock freezer-quality gasket between the lid and the box
- Easy drain system
Comparison
Now let’s see the differences. Given its smaller size, the YETI 20 is naturally lighter, and sizewise it’s smaller in every dimension. The Roadie is also equipped with a carry handle that makes it a lot more portable, on top of its size and weight. Instead of the carrie handle, the YETI 35 comes with polyester rope handles on two sides.
Please see our comparison table below. As you can see the extra 15 Quart capacity only comes with an extra 5 pounds weight so to a weight/capacity ratio, the YETI 35 is the winner:
What Previous Buyers Said
As you can expect it with YETI products, buyers are overwhelmingly happy with both their YETI 20 or 35. The usual YETI attributes, such as the thick walls, heavy-duty latches and carry handles were the favourite specs mentioned by previous buyers.
The only downside some users have pointed out is its weight and that is emphasized more for the Roadie 20, given that for such a small interior size, the 15 pounds weight doesn’t seem to be in balance.
The 35 is much better in this regard with it’s 20 pounds weight but larger interior. Whichever you end up with, if you pack the YETI Cooler to its full capacity, make sure to lift the box with care and great attention to keeping good posture.
Click images to open the picture gallery on Amazon
Conclusion
Both the YETI 20 and YETI 35 are within the easily portable size range. While the 35 and the 45 can be substitutes to one another, the Roadie 20 can’t really serve the same purpose as the 35, in our opinion. This goes both ways. The 35 is not as appropriate for canoeists, kayakers and day trippers as the Roadie 20. The smaller is perfect to keep fresh snacks and drinks with you while on the road or water in fact, whereas the 35 is more appropriate to keep in your truck or on the tailgate.
Still can’t decide between the two? We would recommend you to buy the 20 and if you really need a bigger one as well, go for the YETI 45 in addition. This way you are covered in every outdoors scenario.
Other cooler guides you may be interested in:
I found the yeti 20 to be nearly as bulky as the yeti 35 so I decided to buy the yeti 35 eventually
Hi Geoff, good choice. I think there is more value in the YETI 35 as well