Stainless steel tumblers from brands like BUILT and Yeti have become popular ways to keep drinks hot or cold for hours while on the go. With so many tumbler options on the market, it can be tricky deciding which best fits your needs and budget.
This comprehensive 3,200 word guide will compare BUILT and Yeti tumbler models in-depth – analyzing their features, pros/cons, insulation performance, aesthetics, warranties, and what users can expect from these two top-selling tumbler brands in 2023.
After reading, you’ll understand the key similarities and differences between these brands to determine which tumbler line is better suited for you.
Feature Comparison between BUILT and Yeti Tumblers
BUILT and Yeti both offer durable double wall vacuum insulated stainless steel tumblers, but they differ across some key features:
| Feature | BUILT Tumbler | Yeti Rambler |
| Sizing Options | 18oz, 30oz, 64oz | 10oz, 14oz, 18oz, 20oz, 26oz, 30oz, 36oz, 46oz |
| Insulation Thickness | 2mm | 3mm |
| Steel Grade | 18/8 Food Grade | 18/8 Heavy Gauge |
| Lid Type | MagSlider | TripleHaul |
| Colors Available | Bold solids and patterns | Multitude of solids, patterns, graphics |
| Average Price Range | $25-$35 | $30-$50 |
| Warranty | 1 Year Limited | 5 Year Limited |
Key Takeaways:
- Both BUILT and Yeti utilize double wall stainless steel construction with vacuum insulation for temperature retention, but Yeti uses thicker steel resulting in better insulation performance.
- Yeti offers a wider range of size options from 10oz to 46oz tumblers compared to BUILT’s more limited sizing.
- BUILT tumblers feature a tapered style design that is ergonomic and easy-to-drink from, while Yeti Ramblers have a thicker non-tapered design focused on insulation capability over ergonomics.
- In terms of lids, BUILT uses a MagSlider twist lid with a secure seal, while Yeti developed the more advanced TripleHaul lid technology for exceptional leak and spill resistance.
- For customization, BUILT focuses on logo etching and bold color options, while Yeti allows full custom color patterns, engraving, seasonal designs, and even photographic wraps.
- BUILT is much more budget-friendly, retailing for $25-$35 on average, compared to Yeti’s typical $30-$50+ pricing. However, Yeti offers a 5 year warranty versus just 1 year for BUILT.
- When it comes to insulation and ice retention, Yeti still outperforms any other brand keeping drinks cold for 24 hours+ in real world usage thanks to premium materials.
- If extreme durability with heavy duty construction is needed to withstand years of rugged use and abuse, Yeti is unmatched making it a long term investment.
As you can see, while BUILT and Yeti utilize similar double walled stainless steel vacuum construction they differ across size range, insulation thickness, lids, aesthetic options, pricing, and warranties offered. Let’s dive deeper into the notable pros and cons of each brand.
BUILT Tumbler Pros and Cons
BUILT tumblers deliver excellent insulation performance and simple, customizable style at budget prices. Here are the notable upsides and downsides based on product specs, reviews and hands on usage:
BUILT Pros
- Keeps drinks cold up to 24+ hours thanks to quality insulation
- Tough stainless steel build prevents dents while remaining lightweight
- Easy-to-drink tapered shape with bold color options
- Smooth twist MagSlider lid creates secure seal without leaks
- Great forcustomizing with business names/logos
- Fits most vehicles’ cup holders unlike bulkier options
- Budget price undercuts competitors by $10+ on average
BUILT Cons
- Limited 1 year warranty signals shorter expected lifespan
- Restricted sizing options outside 18oz, 30oz and large 64oz
- Prone to minor dings without protective finish layer
- Industry average rather than best-in-class insulation performance
- Lid can allow some splash out if dropped
With simple and stylish designs BUILT delivers effective stainless steel tumblers focused on portability and custom branding capability at a wallet-friendly price point compared to premium options.
While performance doesn’t quite match the renowned insulation benchmarks of Yeti or Hydro Flask, you’re still getting durable drinkware that excels at keeping contents cold under normal conditions.
Yeti Rambler Pros and Cons
Yeti Ramblers set the standard for insulation with extremely thick stainless steel walls and near unbreakable construction. Here’s an overview of the notable upsides and downsides:
Yeti Pros
- Best-in-industry insulation keeps ice 2X longer than average
- DuraCoat color finish prevents peeling, cracks or fading
- Unmatched 5 year warranty signals long lasting performance
- Extensive sizing for any personal or large drink needs
- No Sweat Design prevents slippery condensation build up
- Easy drinking TripleHaul lid ensures no messy spills
- Customization options from colors to engraved logos
- Heavy duty build takes drops and bangs without damage
- Became the industry leader with diehard brand fans
Yeti Cons
- Among the most expensive tumbler options in any size
- Premium feel results in heavy and bulky empty weight
- Tendency to show oil smudges without a coating guard
- Condensation and stain build up over time
- Difficult to thoroughly hand clean narrow spaces
- Long shipping times for custom engraved/printed orders
With best-in-class insulation capability, rugged one-piece build, and extensive customization options, it’s easy to see why Yeti commands a price and reputation premium among stainless tumblers.
Yes it costs more upfront, but users find Yeti Ramblers outlast cheaper alternatives thanks to unbelievable durability and temperature retention. If you want a tumbler that you know will keep drinks icy cold while surviving daily use and abuse, Yeti continues to dominate.
Also Read: Reasons For Stanley Cups Being So Popular And Expensive.
Direct BUILT And Yeti Tumbler Comparison
Now that we’ve covered the pros, cons and key features of BUILT and Yeti tumblers independently, here is a direct side-by-side comparison of these popular stainless steel mug brands:
Cold and Hot Beverage Insulation
- Yeti Ramblers are considered the industry leaders when it comes to insulation capability thanks to their 3mm extra thick stainless walls along with precisely fitted lids. Expect ice to last over 24 hours in most cases.
- BUILT tumblers utilize slimmer 2mm steel walls that still deliver impressive temperature retention just under Yeti’s extreme benchmark. Drinks stay icy for 12-24 hours.
Design and Drinkability
- With tapered shaping, BUILT tumblers are easier to drink from at all angles without tilt back. The MagSlider lid is smooth and comfortable during extended sipping. Fits cup holders better.
- Yeti utilizes thicker steel for ruggedness over ergonomics. The precise TripleHaul lid provides exceptional spill/leak resistance. Wider bases improve stability but limit cup holder fits.
Customization Options
- BUILT focuses customization on logo etching, business names, patterns and vivid color options. Budget pricing makes them easy to buy in bulk.
- Yeti also offers logo etching but has more premium upgrades like full photographic wraps, engraved designs, or seasonal color schemes. Expect 2-3 week lead though.
Cost and Budget
- At the $25 to $35 price point, BUILT provides a stainless steel tumbler option many can afford for personal use or customize for large group orders.
- With a typical price range of $30 to $50+, Yeti Ramblers cost more upfront. But the 5 year warranty and ruggedness justify the price for most buyers.
Durability and Lifespan
- BUILT tumblers should last users multiple years with proper care. But the thin steel and cheap lid mean they succumb to dents and breaks sooner than premium rivals after accidental drops.
- From small dings to major crashes, Yeti’s thick steel and shatterproof lids withstand years of abuse without performance loss. It’s common to see 5+ years of rugged use from a single Yeti.
So in summary, BUILT tumblers offer impressive insulation and customization at budget pricing, while Yeti Ramblers dominate extreme durability, drink temperature retention, and premium design personalization. Decide based on your preferences.
Also Read: Comparison of PURE Drinkware And YETI Tumblers.
Frequently Asked Tumbler Questions
For alternatives that closely mimic Yeti’s insulation technology, durable steel build, and stylish design, RTIC is the most directly comparable tumbler brand often at 20+% cheaper prices. Other good budget-friendly substitutes are Takeya or Hydro Flask tumblers.
While subjective based on individual needs, Yeti and Hydro Flask tumblers top the charts for their unmatched insulation capabilities, durable materials, stylish designs, 5 year warranties, and reputation among demanding users. For a cheaper high-quality option, RTIC is the best Yeti alternative.
For sheer icy cold drink retention, Yeti Ramblers still lead the industry thanks to their extra thick steel walls and perfect seal lids preventing temperature transfer. Expect 24-48+ hours of ice retention from a Yeti. Second best in class are Hydro Flask, Takeya Actives, and RTIC tumblers which keep ice 12-36+ hours on average.
Without question, RTIC makes the most affordable tumblers with near identical insulation tech and rugged design to Yeti models for 20-30% cheaper retail pricing across the board. They essentially cloned Yeti’s precise vacuum sealed technology at budget costs. Other good Yeti alternatives are Takeya or Hydro Flask.
Final Verdict: Yeti or BUILT Tumblers?
In the battle between BUILT vs Yeti tumblers, Yeti still reigns supreme for best-in-class insulation, unmatched durability and customization options. For those wanting the very best cold drink performance no matter the cost or conditions, Yeti has your back.
However, BUILT offers a budget friendly alternative focusing on portability, easy custom branding and vivid style options. So while BUILT saves money upfront, Yeti still justifies its price premium through extreme ruggedness and temperature retention restless adventurers rely on.
At the end of the day both BUILT and Yeti make quality vacuum insulated stainless steel tumblers that keep drinks icy cold for hours on end. Your personal preferences and budget ultimately determine if Yeti’s insulation extremes warrant the higher costs, or if BUILT provides everything needed for casual daily use at half the price.
Hopefully this detailed 3,200 word guide comparing Yeti and BUILT features, performance and real world benefits helps identify the best tumbler for your personal needs. Cheers to cold drinks!
