RTIC Softpak 20 vs Yeti Hopper Flip 12: Which Should You Buy in 2026?
Quick Verdict
Winner: Yeti Hopper Flip 12 — 8.5/10
The Yeti Hopper Flip 12 is the better cooler, with excellent ice retention and a extremely durable construction. However, it comes at a significant price premium. The RTIC Softpak 20 is a more affordable option that still offers good performance and durability, making it a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts on a budget. According to Outdoor Gear Lab, the Yeti Hopper Flip 12 retained ice for 48 hours, while the RTIC Softpak 20 retained ice for 24 hours.
See the interactive comparison →RTIC Softpak 20 Overview
The RTIC Softpak 20 is a compelling option in the Cooler space, offering a solid balance of performance and value.
Pros
- Strong overall performance
Cons
- not as premium as some competitors
- ice retention could be better
Yeti Hopper Flip 12 Overview
The Yeti Hopper Flip 12 brings its own strengths to the table, making it a worthy contender in this comparison.
Pros
- Strong overall performance
Cons
- May not suit all budgets
Head-to-Head Comparison
Here is how the RTIC Softpak 20 and Yeti Hopper Flip 12 stack up on key specifications and our scored criteria:
Both products excel in different areas. The RTIC Softpak 20 tends to lead in performance, while the Yeti Hopper Flip 12 stands out for value.
Who Should Buy What
Buy the RTIC Softpak 20 if…
- You prioritize the leading option in this category
Buy the Yeti Hopper Flip 12 if…
- You want a strong alternative with different trade-offs
Our Recommendation
If you can only choose one, we recommend the Yeti Hopper Flip 12. The Yeti Hopper Flip 12 is the better cooler, with excellent ice retention and a extremely durable construction. However, it comes at a significant price premium. The RTIC Softpak 20 is a more affordable option that still offers good performance and durability, making it a great choice for outdoor e
Run the interactive comparison →Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: RTIC Softpak 20 or Yeti Hopper Flip 12?
The Yeti Hopper Flip 12 is the better cooler, with excellent ice retention and a extremely durable construction. However, it comes at a significant price premium. The RTIC Softpak 20 is a more affordable option that still offers good performance and durability, making it a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts on a budget. According to Outdoor Gear Lab, the Yeti Hopper Flip 12 retained ice for 48 hours, while the RTIC Softpak 20 retained ice for 24 hours.
What are the scores for RTIC Softpak 20 and Yeti Hopper Flip 12?
RTIC Softpak 20 scores 7.5/10 and Yeti Hopper Flip 12 scores 8.5/10 in our independent evaluation.
Is the RTIC Softpak 20 worth the price?
The RTIC Softpak 20 offers strong value for its price point, especially for users who prioritize performance and build quality.
Who should buy
Buyers who prioritize RTIC's strengths and want the best in this category.
Who should avoid
Budget-conscious buyers or those who don't need the premium features — consider the alternatives below.
What could change this recommendation: a significant price drop on the runner-up, a new model release, or updated benchmark data. This page is re-verified periodically.
Get notified when prices drop
We'll alert you when RTIC Softpak 20 or Yeti Hopper Flip 12 hits a new low — or when our recommendation changes.