YETI Vs. Ozark Trail Challenge—Which Tumbler Wins?!
We’re testing the quality between high-end YETI tumblers vs. the very affordable Ozark Trail brand from Walmart.
Curious how YETI brand tumblers compare to the much less expensive Ozark Trail brand?
Double-wall insulated tumblers are all the rage and for good reason! They can keep drinks cold or hot for hours, which can truly be a lifesaver whether you’re on the road, in the car, at the office, or at home.
We seem to have a growing supply of tumblers at home and I often wonder if there’s a difference between the higher-end brands like YETI and Walmart’s more affordable brand Ozark Trail.
The YETI brand costs 4 times as much! 😱
I compared two 30-32 oz. tumblers, one from YETI and one from Ozark Trail, to test if there’s a difference that would make me want to spend 4x as much money for the YETI.
My YETI tumbler is currently priced at $34.99, while the Ozark Trail tumbler is currently just $8.94 on Walmart.com.
Similar qualities of both of these tumblers:
- Stainless steel
- BPA-free
- Sweat-free and rust-proof
- Same style lid and overall shape
- Hold 30 to 32 oz. of liquid
- Keep drinks HOT or COLD for hours
Are they dishwasher safe?
One difference I noticed is that the YETI brand specifically states dishwasher safe and Ozark Trail says to NOT place in the dishwasher. However, we have personally washed the Ozark brand water bottles and tumblers in the dishwasher at my house without issue for years.
These tumblers look SO similar, but will they perform the same?
Let’s put these tumblers to the test with an ice challenge!
I was wondering how long they could keep ice frozen and how they compared in performance to each other, so the following are the results of my very casual and unscientific YETI Vs. Ozark Trail Challenge!
I started by filling each cup with 15 ice cubes, set them in my kitchen with the lids on, and started the clock.
- 4-Hour Results: There was no noticeable difference or any results to give.
- 8-Hour Results: I was able to pour about the same amount of liquid out of both cups, just under 1/4 cup each. Both still had lots of ice.
- 24-Hour Results: Ice seemed to be melting the same and water levels were pretty much the same at 3/4 cup each.
- 31-Hour Results: The water was still cold! Also, kinda surprising, but the ice in the YETI tumbler completely melted, while the Ozark Trail had a teeny tiny bit of ice left.
We have a winner!!! 🎉 (Although it was so close!)
The less expensive Ozark Trail Tumbler was declared the winner of my very casual unscientific YETI vs. Ozark Trail Tumbler challenge! And they both really did seem pretty similar in performance and are both fantastic tumblers to consider.
Final thoughts
If you’re not concerned about the brand name that’s on the outside of the cup, most can agree that Ozark Trail is a MUCH better value for your money.
I can’t live without these double-walled tumblers now!
Living in extremely hot weather in Arizona, it’s a wonderful thing to fill up an insulated cup, run errands in and out of the car, and still have an ice-cold drink to enjoy. It’s especially crucial in the summer!
At under $10, this Ozark Trail tumbler is a great choice, especially since it does the same job as YETI!
Hip Tip: I used my Cricut cutting machine & permanent vinyl to create a personalized decal for my Ozark tumbler, which is a fun gift to make friends and family, too!
Ozark Trail tumblers can be found on Walmart.com or in-store near the camping section. At that price, we can afford to buy the whole family a cup each! 😊
Ozark Trail tumblers also make great gift ideas for so many occasions! 😍
The cup itself is a nice gift for friends, teachers, moms, dads, and anyone who would enjoy a quality tumbler. You can read about how I made fun little gift baskets using Ozark tumblers here!
I have the built brand mug from Wal-Mart and it changes the flavor of my coffee so I tried the Ozark trail my brother in laws have and it does as well. My husband yeti does not. I find that really odd.
It’s more than likely just in your mind.
Thanks for the info. It’s really hard for me to find a tumbler that does not change the flavor of my coffee. I used stanley ceramivac, but the ceramic coating does not last. I think I should give Yeti a try.
What about long term? Does the ozark trail one rust?
None of our ozark Trail tumblers or bottles have rusted over the last couple years. Hope that helps.
I have used two Ozark Trail cups daily for 5 years and neither have shown any signs of wear.
My mom has had some for years and has well water where she lives, which causes things to rust more quickly generally, but no issues with hers!
I have both a Yeti and Ozark Trail in all sizes and they all work the same. Yeti just us a cult following. Your pictures are a bit deceiving because when Ozark first came out with their tumblers they were identical I look and weight. Yeti sued them and Ozark had to change the mugs slightly. The cap is now transparent grey not clear white like Yeti, the curve is a bit differently but they still work the same. Also, Yeti has a mag slider lid and Yeti does not, they both fit each other’s mug. I would say that Yeti has better customer support and more attention to detail to quality. You will have to look at each mug when picking one out at Walmart if you want it to be perfect. If you don’t care get an Ozark, if you want people to see you spent a bit more on a cult brand get a Yeti. Functionally both work the same. I own the 10 oz, 20 oz, 30 oz. and the 40 oz Ozark.
I have to OT mugs and neither have rusted. I made a leather cookie for mine just for giggles.
My concern is keeping coffee hot. Have you done this test?
No but thanks for the suggestion – I know we use the smaller 20 oz tumblers for coffee drinks, and they do stay warm for a long time too. Hope that helps!
I drink the same cup of coffee over a 2 hour period. It is nearly too hot to drink when I start, but is still quite hot when I am finishing it. As the volume of coffee goes down in the cup it starts to cool more quickly so I wouldn’t suggest walking away from 1/4 cup full for a long time and expecting it to still be hot.
I live in Boston and take the commuter rail to work everyday. I brew my coffee every morning and used to use my trusty Contigo…and my coffee was lukewarm by the time I got to the office. Yuck. I bit the bullet, used the 25% Black Friday coupon from Dicks, and bought myself the 18oz Rambler with the Hot Shot cap separately. Total came to $32 or so. BEST $32 I HAVE EVER SPENT. LOL. My coffee is still steaming by the time I get to the office…and this is December in Boston, so it’s in the 20’s most mornings. I usually don’t by name brands – but Yeti has won me over.
Oh that’s so great you found something that works! Thanks for sharing 🙂
I have it worked great
Yes, I was thinking of that: we need a hot test.
I have the Ozark trail rambler (I think that’s what it is called…the coffee cup one 😆) anyway, my coffee stays hot for hours! Best $6 I’ve ever spent. I no longer have to reheat my coffee; It’s so great. This is with lid ON. Without the lid it’ll cool as quickly as a regular mug in my opinion. I’ve also watched reviews on the Yeti in the same style cup and it needs the lid as well to keep your beverage hot. I’d never even consider paying for a Yeti now. Hope this helps!!
Thanks for adding your thoughts ❤️
I highly recommend “zojirushi “for hot drink! I want you to add this brand for the hot and cold test.
They are the best !
Keep drink hot for a long time .
https://www.amazon.com/Zojirushi-SM-KHE48AG-Stainless-Steel-16-Ounce/dp/B005PO9T44/ref=pd_aw_fbt_img_1/134-7889093-0931038?pd_rd_w=Jl4wn&pf_rd_p=0ac31943-e5c4-4aef-ab7b-6ab45d3ad9aa&pf_rd_r=K5X63NRH6690S11ZEVDN&pd_rd_r=a4ae7b86-f449-4367-94e7-0e34efa1a7af&pd_rd_wg=Gqssj&pd_rd_i=B005PO9T44&psc=1
https://www.amazon.com/Zojirushi-SM-SD48RC-Stainless-Steel-16-Ounce/dp/B079R8PQQL?ref_=ast_sto_dp&th=1&psc=1
I have both and find them pretty equal in quality. The good part about Yeti is the locking lid that prevents spills. The Ozark handle does fit the Yeti and is a better price.
I have a yeti. I really appreciate HOT coffee. It stays hot for 8 + hours.
That’s great – thanks for chiming in!
We have a couple Ozark Trail tumblers, but the next size down since the others are too large for my hands (unless I want to drink toddler style with 2 hands – probably not a great idea while driving). They’re fabulous. My coffee stays hot for hours AND since I am a space cadet and often leave things /loose things, when I did manage to lose one, it stung a lot less knowing I lost a $7.00 tumbler… Not a $30 something tumbler.
Yes!! I can so relate on the space cadet 😂 So me as well! Lol
I bought a Yeti handle (for $9.99) for my Target Zak! 30oz cup and it’s great. There are a lot of cheaper brand handles on Amazon, too.
And I like my Zak! colors better than my parents’ Yeti colors.
Personal preference
Thanks for sharing 👍
I have both. They both keep ice a long time and are equal in that respect.
AFA coffee is concerned-maybe I dont drink it fast enough. I like my coffee steaming hot and neither one keeps it hot enough for me.
I would have to say Ozark Trails is better because they are equal in quality and Ozark Trails is alot cheaper.
Have you ever looked at ember?they are crazy expensive but they warm your drink so it never dios below 135. You can set the temp lower if u don’t want it to stay that hot!
Try putting boiling hot water in First!! Pour the water out then put in the coffee in!
Thanks for the information, just bought a 20 oz Ozark 🙂
Oh nice! Enjoy!
I love my Yeti mugs and use them every day at home and work. I use them so often I thought I should try the Ozark Trail and Rtic ramblers. Ozark Trail was the worst. It does make coffee and tea taste funny. The Rtic rambler was almost identical to Yeti except it only has a 30 day warranty.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
I have both yeti and Ozark and find them to be same. I bought an handle on Amazon for the the 30oz Ozark and it keeps my coffee hit through 4 and a half hours of teaching. I’ve had mine for over 3 years and it shows little or not signs of wear. I give the Ozarks as gifts regularly with some reusable straws, a handle, and a travel lid.
Awesome Holly! Yes I love them as gifts! I’m giving all my kids’ teachers personalized ones tomorrow!
Love my Ozark cups. Only thing that’s been missing is a well fitting handle, but I just purchased some from Etsy made from parachords that I’m excited to try.
Oh that sound fun!
Ozark Trail also has amazing customer service! We’ve been using ours nearly 5 years and the ring around the lid was making the lid fit funny. I contacted Ozark Trail and they sent me a new one, no questions asked. I was impressed, especially for that price point.
WOW! That is so nice to hear!
Neither lol Rtic brand is best https://www.rticcoolers.com/shop/drinkware/tumblers/RTIC-Tumbler-30-oz Coffee last hot for hours and the ice doesn’t melt for over 24 hours.
Great- thanks for your input!
I love my Ozark! For years it’s kept my coffee hot for a 2 plus hour drive.
That’s so great! Thanks for sharing!
I purchased two of the Ozark Trail brands this summer, after reading your previous post comparison (maybe 2 years ago). The one that I purchase for myself let my sweet tea very cold. I do not have a Yeti to compare.
Thanks for sharing Lisha!
I also have an Ozark tumbler and purchased a handle for it at Walmart. Best thing I did because I have arthritis and have a hard time holding on to things.
That’s a great tip! Thanks Pattie!
Does the lid actually close on these to keep from spilling if they upset?
It’s a pretty tight fit – yep 👍 I’ve had no issues with lids.
I have an Ozark brand from Walmart and its awesome for the summer! Keeps my drinks cold all day in the heat!
Oh nice – thanks Tammy!
Wow! Thank you so much! I would really live for you to do this experiment with Hot water and take the actual temperatures! I have been thinking about getting a yeti for my hubby and would LOVE to see the results. Thank you again! P.s. I wish I was as crafty as you!
I love that idea too! AW thanks 😍
Walmart has 16 oz Ozark tumblers for about 7 that are so good. I bought one for my mom a few years ago bc she’s one of those people who need ice in a drink at all times. She swears by it. Says it’s the best she’s ever tried
Awesome – thanks Amy!
Hmmmmm….I wish this information was available before I bought the Yeti I have. It is quite expensive compared to the Ozark. If they do exactly the same thing, I would have bought the cheaper one – the Ozark! Thank you for this information.
You’re welcome Jerry! Thanks for stopping by today 👍
Great info! Can you guys do a comparison of the super expensive Hydroflask and equivalents? I’m curious about that, too!
Oh boy! Stay tuned as that may be coming next 💕
Yes! I’d love a comparison to the Hydroflask. I just can’t bring myself to pay THAT much for a water bottle! Is the hype just for show?
I want to know also. I was at Dicks Sporting Goods and people were grabbing them like crazy. I got the Yeti brand because they have that handle you can add to carry it and remove it to fit in the car cup holder. Does the Ozark brand have a removable handle available?
I have multiple Ozark trail tumblers. I love them. However, I will say that the stainless steel color stays cooler a lot longer than the ones that are colored on the outside.
Oh that’s so interesting – thanks for sharing!
My Ozark Trail started to chip the paint. My Yeti has not. I use my Yeti more often and it holds up better – in paint alone.
Thanks for sharing Carol!
We LOVE our RTIC tumblers and bottles of all kinds! We also have a couple Ozark Trail and they’re good, but the lid quality seems better on RTIC. But either way, I don’t think I can live without double wall stainless steel coffee cups again!
Yes I agree! They are all so handy !
My neighbor gifted me a Yeti cup and it is totally worth the money if I was to buy one. I work out of a truck and sometimes dont finish my coffee right away. If it’s hot it will still be warm after a few hours of sitting or if its cold the ice doesnt melt all the way.
That’s a nice gift- thanks for sharing your experience!
Hi Lina, I love the decals you’ve made or the tumblers. I do not know much about Cricuts but seeing your projects make me want to buy one. I searched online and the cheapest is a Cricut Express Mini. Will this machine work to make decals like the once you’ve made? Which basic machine would you recommend for a newbie and a non crafty person? Thanks!
Hi Gavi, I think the one you referred to will only iron on vinyl. I have a Cricut Explorer.
Here’s more projects I’ve done and the latest deal on those machines!
https://hip2save.com/2017/10/24/oh-cricut-thanks-for-making-awesome-personalized-teacher-gifts-signs-more/
deal here-> https://hip2save.com/tips/cricut-explore-air-2/
My Costco tumblers have always had the coloring peel off. The hot cups have always had the kids break, leak, or mold.
My Yetis go in the dishwasher and never peel or have any issues.
We have had our ozark tumblers and bottles for 4 years now and no rusting and when challenged with the Hydroflask in summer heat camping, the Ozark had more ice longer than the Hydroflask! It was proof to my son you don’t need a name brand to have a great product!
I have had to replace Ozark lids and never had to replace Yeti. I throw them all in the dishwasher. Noticed a friend had her Yeti lid on an Ozark cup; she had the same problem
I have found the Ozark indeed keeps cold colder….but Yeti keeps hot hotter. ??? Go figure.
Oh that’s interesting! Thanks so much for sharing 👍
I currently have RTIC and love it, even though they stopped making the 40oz one. I had an Ozark trail and Targets knock-off both lose the vacuum seal which makes them useless to keep things cold. I washed in dishwasher so that might be the culprit but I very rarely put in dishwasher, just rinse out before refilling mostly.
My husband and I both own Ozark coffee mugs. Love them!! They keep our coffee hot and our drinks cold for hours. We’ve had them for a couple years now, still look brand new!
That’s so great to hear! Thanks Betsy!
Your results are the same as I have seen over and over from different people. For those who want to keep hot drinks hot I would like to suggest that you remember to prep your container before filling it with a hot drink. Do this by filling it with boiling water and letting it sit for ten minutes. Then pour the water out and fill with your drink of choice. If you pour a hot drink into a cold cup it will suck heat right out of it. You want to do this with hot food containers like thermos too if you are sending a hot meal to school for your kids’ lunch.
Yes that’s a great tip! I do that for the lunch containers too and it makes a difference 👍
We have 30 oz Ozark tumblers and love them. We also have 30 ounce Reduce brand from Costco and they are amazing, as well. I noticed some people mentioning the coating peels off after awhile, which it does so since then we have only purchased the plain stainless cups. The coating will eventually all peel off exposing only the stainless steel on the outside. No issues with the lids for either brand. Absolutely love them and use them every day!
Perfect! Thanks so much for sharing Em 👍
My main question between the yeti and ozark I can’t stand the taste of metal in anything I drink. I haven’t spent the outrageous price on a Yeti, yet if it or an ozark doesnt make my mouth taste like metal I’ll buy 1 of the 2 asap
Had a problem with my almost 3 year old Yeti and after getting a run around with their warranty people I went to Wall Mart and got their knockoff for $9.50 and it works identical to Yeti.
How can I get tough coffee stains out of my yeti. I have tried several different cleaners, to no avail.
Hi Bindy! Here is a post that may be helpful! https://hip2save.com/tips/how-to-clean-water-bottles/
I use baking soda and dish soap. It creates a paste and gets rid of them. I use it on Corning ware also to remove scratches from silverware and baked on stuff.
We have a Yeti. A christmas gift. Still sitting in the cupboard. haha.
I have to admit that I am a huge Yeti fan. Two winters ago my mother was walking to her car and slipped on the ice and fell into a lot of snow and slush. She dropped her Yeti (full of hot coffee) into the snow, where it sat for the next hour, while she changed her clothes. When she came back out, she picked it up and went to work. (It landed upright in the snow bank) When she got to work her coffee was still hot and remained so for the next 4 hours. I personally LOVE my 26 oz Yeti Rambler and use it for ice water all summer long.
Same with my Ozark. I also have left it in my car all day in the hot sun and my tea stayed cold. 😎
I have both Yetis (that were gifted to me) and ozark trails… BOTH WORK THE EXACT SAME! I can keep my tea ice cold all day in both. I prefer the OT because I can buy in various colors to match what I wear to work each day without breaking the bank.
I bought Ozark for the camper cuz they were cheap and I wouldn’t care if they got lost etc. They seem compatible to other brand name cups at a fraction of the cost. My son loves the size as they have one that when brewing large size in the Keurig and adding cream to the top it is the perfect ratio.
I have found all double walled tumblers to be the same. I wish they would invent one with filtration or a filtering straw to rid water of chemicals.
All double walled cups loose ability to keep cold or hold heat with time.
Why are some of the comments from as far back as December of 2019? Is this an old post, reposted? Or is there something wrong with the dates?
Hi Kimberly! This post was originally posted in 2019. However, since the information is still relevant, we are able to share it again since it may be new information to some of our readers and these particular tumblers are still available to purchase.
I want to add an additional piece of info without any actual scientific testing, but just from experience. I love the Ozark Trail Tumblers. Note, I use them *almost* exclusively for cold drinks, I like my drinks ice cold. I’ve had several of them over the years.. well technically I still have them, they are still in great shape and still usable.. I just tend to misplace things, and have to go buy a new one occasionally. 😀 But I’ve had some multiple that were used daily for years, with no issue.
Anyway, here’s one thing I have found. One of my oldest ones, came with the clear lid, and no closing mechanism. Just the opening for “sipping or straw” use. At some point, I purchased an additional lid (also ozark trail) but it was smokey grey (I only mention the color, because I saw someone in another comment note that OT had to change it..) that had the flip shut mechanism. Oddly enough, using the original lid, with the ‘always open’ hole, consistently keeps ice in my cup longer than using the lid that latches shut.
I’m assuming it has something to do with the thickness of the lid, or composition of the plastic, or something, as they’re both “plastic” lids. But I’m surprised every time, because I would think the one with the hole in it, would allow the temperature exchange to happen faster.
I have newer ones with lids that are slightly different, including a sliding mechanism, but as I haven’t been able to figure out which cabinet/drawer/couch cushion I last stored my very first/original clear lid in, I have not been able to make any comparisons against the newer lids.
Thanks a ton for taking a moment to share your experience with your favorite brand, Chris! We sure appreciate the helpful review!