The noise emission of a cooler is not much of an issue while travelling in a car, boat or truck. It’s a different story when it is kept in the room you are staying or even sleeping in.
If you – like most camping enthusiasts – wish to place your cooler under the awning, you are best advised to choose an absorber unit. This type of cooler is almost quiet. If the occasional start of the compressor does not really bother you though, you will be just as happy with a compressor box.
Absorption technology: Absolutely silent
Thermoelectric technology: Continuous fan noise
Compressor technology: Occasional, quiet running noise of the compressor