Since the heatwave hit, like everyone else, I’ve suddenly become interested in all things refrigeration – namely portable air con units and cool boxes. Who wants to feel like a sticky mess at home or drink a warm Coke on the beach, when tech offers us alternatives? Igloo’s Playmate KoolTunes cooler, $140/£234, piqued my interest because it doesn’t just keep your food and drinks cool, but it also brings the party, doubling up as a Bluetooth speaker.
What’s the story with the Igloo Playmate KoolTunes cooler?
Quite simply, it’s a 13-litre cool box and a boombox – two boxes in one. Albeit in different colourways (as well as the pink and teal combo, it also comes in a slightly more subtle lilac and blue) it looks just like the 1989 KoolTunes Playmate and I can’t get enough of it – it’s the most fun looking cooler I’ve ever seen.
It’s not just a retro remake though, Igloo have brought it up-to-date with wireless Bluetooth connectivity, ten hours of audio playtime and KoolSync true wireless stereo pairing – which enables you to pump up the volume if you have two. I also love that it has a weather-resistant exterior with IP56 rating.
Delightful design
This is one cooler you won’t mind carrying around – as well as being eye-catching for the right reasons, it’s comfortable to carry one-hand, thanks to its moulded-in handle. For me, the 13-litre capacity strikes a good balance between being roomy enough to fit in drinks and snacks for a day out, without being a chore to lift. If you’re thinking of it as a party drink vessel, it holds 26 cans.
The retro tent-top design features the OG side button for easy opening and a tight close – I didn’t experience any leakage during testing, even when I tried it filled with ice. The lid swivels to either side, allowing for easy access, which adds to its appeal.
On the back of the KoolTunes is a simple control panel with buttons for power, pairing and volume – it couldn’t get much simpler. There’s also a USB-C charging port, which is behind a rubberised seal (a USB-C charging cord is included).
Using the Igloo Playmate KoolTunes cooler
For a 2026 release, I was surprised to see the Igloo Playmate KoolTunes cooler is using Bluetooth 5.0, which is now a decade old. That said, I had no problems whatsoever connecting pairing to my iPhone – it took under 30 seconds, so in the real world it actually isn’t an issue. Better still, assuming you haven’t upgraded to a new phone, it automatically re-pairs whenever you power your KoolTunes on – perfect.
Another thing I was surprised by is how good the sound quality is and how loud it can go! It has two 5 watt speakers on the front, sized like side plates and it delivers balanced, clear, crisp sound that isn’t at all muffled. If I’m being picky, my one complaint would be that it doesn’t deliver as much bass as the best portable Bluetooth speakers.
Cooler-wise, the Igloo Playmate KoolTunes doesn’t disappoint either. It’s kept food and drinks cool for entire days out and impressively (without ice) kept ice creams cold enough for them to still be enjoyed after 90 minutes, in 26°C.
Should I buy the Igloo Playmate KoolTunes cooler?
I test a lot of gear and this is genuinely one of the best lifestyle products I’ve tested in a few years. I haven’t felt the need to touch my portable bluetooth speaker since I started testing the KoolTunes and I haven’t had to buy a beverage at my local beach once either. I have taken it everywhere with me, so while expensive, I do feel it’s worth the outlay.
While I’m happy the product warrants the price, I am slightly disappointed with the warranty. The electronic components in the KoolTunes Playmate cooler are only covered for 90 days and everything else for a year. Would I still buy it? Yes, I love it – it’s genuinely helping me have a great summer. However, I would check it over very carefully after taking delivery and during the 90 days, in case of any defects. Cold can, anyone?
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