Bentgo vs OmieBox Which Bento Box Cooler Wins?

The OmieBox bento box cooler is the clear winner if you need to pack hot lunches and want versatility. You might prefer the Bentgo bento box for its simplicity and lightweight design. It offers a reliably leakproof solution for cold or room-temperature meals. Finding the best leakproof bento box is a top priority for many parents, driving market growth.

The global bento box market shows significant expansion, reflecting its rising popularity in households worldwide.

North America is a key market, following the large Asia-Pacific region.

Key Takeaways

• The OmieBox is best for packing hot and cold foods together, thanks to its special thermos.
• The Bentgo box is great for cold lunches and snacks; it is light and easy for kids to open.
• Both boxes stop leaks well, but the Bentgo is simpler to clean because it has fewer parts.
• The Bentgo box costs less and is good for simple, cold meals, while the OmieBox costs more but offers more ways to pack food.
• Your choice depends on if you need to pack hot food or prefer a simpler, lighter lunch box.

Feature-by-Feature: Bentgo vs. OmieBox

Choosing the right lunch container often comes down to the details. You need to know how each box performs in the real world. Let’s compare the Bentgo and OmieBox on the features that matter most to parents and kids.

Which Keeps Food Hot or Cold?

This is the biggest difference between the two lunch boxes. Your choice here depends entirely on the types of meals your child prefers.

The OmieBox is the only bento box cooler of the two that can handle hot and cold foods simultaneously. It achieves this with a removable, vacuum-insulated thermos. You can pack warm soup, pasta, or chicken nuggets in the thermos, and they will stay warm until lunchtime.

The integrated lunchbox and thermos solution is ideal for young children. The surrounding compartments remain cool for fresh fruits, vegetables, or crackers.

The Bentgo Kids Chill box focuses exclusively on keeping food cold. It does not have a feature for hot foods. Instead, it includes a slim, removable ice pack that nests perfectly underneath the food tray. This design keeps the entire bento box chilled for hours, making it perfect for sandwiches, salads, yogurt, and other perishable items.

Which Prevents Leaks and Spills?

Nothing ruins a lunch bag faster than a spill. Finding the best leakproof bento box is a top priority. Both Bentgo and OmieBox offer excellent protection against messes, but they use different methods.

The OmieBox features a smart leakproof design to manage different types of food.

• Leakproof Seals: The OmieBox uses strong seals around its compartments. This prevents foods from mixing together.
• Side Compartment Leak-Proofing: You can safely pack wet foods like applesauce or yogurt in the side compartments. Each one is leakproof for liquids up to 1 teaspoon.
• Thermos for High-Liquid Foods: For very liquid meals like soup or curry, you should use the integrated thermos. It provides a secure, fully leakproof container.

The Bentgo Kids box is famous for its simple and effective leakproof seal. The lid is lined with silicone that presses down firmly on each compartment divider. This creates a tight seal that prevents wet foods from leaking out of the box or into other compartments. You can pack dips and yogurts with confidence.

Which is Easier for Kids to Open?

A lunch box is only useful if your child can open it independently at school. Both brands designed their latches with little hands in mind.

You will find the Bentgo is a great little lunch box for younger kids. It is super easy for them to open and shut.

• Sturdy and durable
• Multiple food compartments help encourage variety
• Easy to open and close
• Comes in different colors and prints
• Fits in almost any standard flat lunch bag

The OmieBox also features a kid-friendly latch on the front. Some parents worry the thermos lid might be too difficult for a child to twist open. However, many find their kids can manage it without help.

First of all let me just say that after reading all the reviews I decided to indeed buy this lunch box for my son’s bento lunches. I carefully read all the instructions (do’s and don’ts) and I’m pretty convinced I found the perfect lunch box for my little one. I had him open up the lunch box itself and then the warm compartment and he was able to do so perfectly fine with no help. He was very excited to have all his favorites foods and snacks in one box vs one box each item. We are very happy with it.

Ultimately, both boxes are designed for kids to use on their own. The Bentgo’s single-latch system may be slightly simpler, while the OmieBox adds the extra step of the thermos lid.

Which is Simpler for Parents to Clean?

After a long day, the last thing you want is a complicated cleanup. The ease of cleaning is a major factor when choosing a lunch box.

The Bentgo Kids box offers a very straightforward cleaning process. The inner food tray is removable. You can place this tray on the top rack of your dishwasher for a simple, hands-off cleaning. You should hand wash the outer shell to protect the leakproof seal and extend its life.

The OmieBox requires a bit more effort because it has more parts.

• The Main Box: You must hand wash the exterior box. It is not dishwasher safe.
• The Thermos: The insulated thermos and its lid also need to be washed by hand to protect the vacuum seal.
• Seals and Gaskets: You will need to remove the silicone seals for a thorough cleaning to prevent mold buildup.

Cleaning Tip 📝 For the OmieBox, disassembling the parts for cleaning is an important step. Washing each piece separately ensures no food particles get trapped, keeping the bento box hygienic for your child’s next meal.

Which is More Durable and Portable?

You need a lunch box that can survive the daily tumbles of school life. Both the Bentgo and OmieBox are built to last, but they differ in their construction and portability.

The OmieBox is constructed with sturdy materials and a thoughtful design. It holds up meal after meal, even with the daily demands of school lunches. This robust construction contributes significantly to its durability. OmieBox uses high-quality materials to ensure its products are tough.

• 18/8 304 grade stainless steel
• Food grade plastic
• Silicone

The Bentgo Kids box is also very durable, made from strong, BPA-free plastics that can handle drops and bumps. Its secure latches are designed for repeated use without breaking.

When it comes to portability, the Bentgo has a clear advantage. It is slimmer, more compact, and lighter. This makes it easy to slide into a backpack. The OmieBox is bulkier and heavier, mainly because of its insulated thermos. This trade-off gives you the unique ability to pack hot food, but it takes up more space in a lunch bag. The OmieBox is a bento box cooler with a very secure, leakproof design, but its size is something you must consider.

Which Offers Better Value for the Price?

Your budget plays a big role in your decision. The Bentgo and OmieBox have a noticeable price difference, which reflects their different features.

Here is a quick look at their typical retail prices.

The Bentgo bento box comes in at a lower price point. This makes it an excellent value if your main goal is to pack cold or room-temperature lunches in a reliable, leakproof container. You get a high-quality, easy-to-use product for a very reasonable price.

The OmieBox costs more, but you are paying for its unique versatility. It functions as both a bento box and a food thermos. If you were to buy a separate high-quality bento box and a separate thermos, the total cost could be similar to or even more than the price of one OmieBox. If you plan to pack hot lunches regularly, the OmieBox provides excellent value by combining two products into one convenient, leakproof package.

At a Glance: Quick Comparison Table

Sometimes you just need a quick summary. Here is a simple breakdown of each bento box to help you decide which one fits your family’s needs. This quick guide highlights the main pros and cons of each option.

Bentgo Kids Chill Box

This bento box is a fantastic choice if you primarily pack cold lunches. Its design focuses on simplicity and reliability for meals that need to stay cool.

• Primary Use: Best for cold and room-temperature foods like sandwiches, salads, fruits, and yogurt.
• Cooling Method: It includes a slim, removable ice pack that fits perfectly under the food tray.
• Leak-Proofing: The design features a very strong seal that prevents wet foods from leaking between compartments or out of the box.
• Ease of Use: A single, kid-friendly latch makes it easy for young children to open and close independently.
• Cleaning: The inner tray is top-rack dishwasher safe, making cleanup quick and simple. You should hand wash the outer shell.
• Portability: It has a slim, lightweight, and compact design that fits easily into most lunch bags and backpacks.

OmieBox Insulated Bento Box

The OmieBox is a unique bento box cooler designed for ultimate meal versatility. You can pack hot and cold foods together in one container.

• Primary Use: Ideal for packing hot meals like soup or pasta alongside cold sides like fruit or crackers.
• Cooling/Heating Method: It features a removable, vacuum-insulated stainless steel thermos for hot foods. The surrounding compartments stay cool.
• Leak-Proofing: The thermos is fully leak-proof for liquids. The side compartments are leak-proof for wet foods like applesauce.
• Ease of Use: It has a single latch for the main box and a twist-off lid for the thermos.
• Cleaning: This box requires more effort. You must hand wash all parts, including the outer box, thermos, and silicone seals.

Pro Tip 💡 To maximize heat retention in the OmieBox thermos, you can preheat it. Just fill it with boiling water for a few minutes, then empty it before adding your hot food.

Deep Dive: The Bentgo Bento Box

The Bentgo bento box shines with its focus on simplicity and reliability. You will find its design is thoughtful and user-friendly, making it a favorite for parents who pack cold lunches. It removes complexity so you can pack a healthy meal quickly.

Design and Key Features

Bentgo builds its lunch boxes with durability and ease of use in mind. The design prioritizes a secure and straightforward experience for both you and your child. The brand uses high-quality, food-safe materials, including durable options like stackable 18/8 stainless steel in some product lines.

Key features make this bento box stand out:

• Kid-Friendly Latch: A single, sturdy latch makes the box easy for small hands to open and close without help.
• Removable Tray: The inner compartment tray lifts out for easy cleaning and meal prep.
• Superior Seal: The lid has a silicone overlay that lines up perfectly with the compartment walls. This creates a tight, leakproof seal to keep foods separate.

This excellent leakproof design means you can pack yogurt or applesauce next to crackers without worrying about soggy messes.

Best For: Cold Lunches and Snacks

You should choose the Bentgo if your child prefers sandwiches, salads, and other chilled foods. The compartmentalized layout encourages you to pack a balanced meal. Its reliable leakproof nature makes it perfect for a wide variety of items.

Lunch Packing Inspiration 💡 The compartments are perfect for creating a colorful and nutritious meal. You can easily fill them with:

• Proteins: Cubed cheese, hard-boiled eggs, or a scoop of hummus.
• Fruits & Veggies: Berries, carrot sticks, snap peas, and orange segments.
• Grains: Crackers, pretzels, a small sandwich, or leftover pasta salad.
• Dips: The sealed sections are ideal for ranch, guacamole, or yogurt dip.

This bento box is the ideal tool for packing diverse, fresh lunches that stay neat and appetizing until it’s time to eat.

Deep Dive: The OmieBox Bento Box Cooler

The OmieBox stands apart from other lunch containers because of its unique approach to meal packing. You get the power to pack hot and cold foods together. This makes it a game-changer for kids who love warm leftovers or comforting soups.

The Insulated Thermos Advantage

The core of the OmieBox’s power is its removable, vacuum-insulated thermos. This feature is what transforms a standard bento box into a dynamic meal system. You can place hot foods like chicken nuggets or pasta directly into the thermos. The rest of the bento box stays cool for fresh fruits, vegetables, and other snacks. This separation prevents your child’s crunchy crackers from getting warm and soggy.

Thermos Capacity Note 📝 The insulated thermos insert holds a generous 12 ounces. This provides plenty of room for a satisfying portion of soup, chili, or macaroni and cheese.

This design gives you incredible freedom. You are no longer limited to only cold or room-temperature meals. The thermos empowers you to send warm, home-cooked food to school, expanding your lunch-packing possibilities.

Best For: Hot Lunches and Versatility

You should choose the OmieBox if you need maximum meal versatility. This bento box cooler is perfect for parents who want to pack a wider variety of foods. It is the ideal solution for picky eaters or for children who enjoy warm leftovers from the previous night’s dinner. The ability to combine different temperatures in one container opens up a world of creative and comforting lunch options.

You can easily create balanced and exciting meals. Here are a few ideas:

• Hot chicken noodle pasta with a side of cold clementine and cheese.
• Warm teriyaki salmon and rice next to cool strawberries and broccoli.
• A hot egg omelet served with cold avocado and a banana.

If your goal is to send diverse meals that include both hot and cold elements, this bento box is an excellent investment.

Exploring Other Bento Box Options

While Bentgo and OmieBox are top contenders, other brands offer unique features. Exploring these alternatives can help you find the best lunch boxes for your specific needs.

Yumbox: The Compartment Specialist

You might prefer Yumbox if your main goal is portion control and variety. Yumbox designs its containers with multiple sealed compartments, making it easy to pack a balanced meal without foods touching. The number of compartments varies by model, so you can choose the layout that works best for you.

This focus on compartments helps you pack diverse and appealing lunches.

KUER: The Rugged Outdoor Option

If you need a bento box that can withstand serious wear and tear, you should look at KUER. This brand builds its products for extreme durability, making them ideal for outdoor adventures or just rough-and-tumble school days. Its construction is incredibly robust.

• Advanced Rotomolded Shell: This seamless design makes the box extremely tough.
• Thick PU Foam Insulation: It provides excellent cold retention for long days.
• Durable Materials: KUER uses food-grade materials and stainless steel locks.
• Proven Strength: The design resists cracks and impacts from drops and bumps.

Did You Know? ⚙️ KUER’s research and development team holds over 50 patents for its products, reflecting a deep expertise in creating durable rotationally molded goods.

PlanetBox: The Stainless Steel Choice

You may want a plastic-free option for your child’s lunch. PlanetBox offers high-quality stainless steel lunch systems that are built to last for years. These containers are a favorite among parents who prioritize durability and non-toxic materials. PlanetBox offers several sizes, including the Rover, Launch, and Shuttle, to fit different appetites. The Rover model, for instance, holds about 4.5 cups of food across five compartments.

The benefits of stainless steel are clear:

• It is extremely durable and long-lasting.
• No plastic ever touches your child’s food.
• The material does not hold onto smells or stains.
• Cleaning is simple, as most parts are dishwasher safe.

Deciding between these two excellent lunch boxes comes down to your daily needs. Your final choice depends on the types of meals your child enjoys most.

• You should choose the Bentgo Kids box if your priority is a slim, easy-to-clean container. It offers a reliably leakproof solution for cold lunches and snacks.
• Select the OmieBox if you need the flexibility to pack hot meals like soup or pasta. This option works well if you do not mind the extra cleaning and bulk. For warm leftovers, OmieBox is worth it; for sandwiches and fruit, stick with Bentgo’s simple, leakproof design.

FAQ

Which box is better for a toddler?

You may find the Bentgo box is easier for toddlers. It has one simple latch. This design helps small hands open it without assistance. The OmieBox is also kid-friendly but has the extra step of a twist-off thermos lid.

Will these bento boxes fit in a standard lunch bag?

The Bentgo Kids box has a slim profile. It fits easily into most standard lunch bags. You should check the dimensions for the OmieBox. Its bulkier size and square shape may require a deeper lunch bag to fit properly.

How can I prevent mold in the seals?

You can prevent mold with proper care. Always dry all parts completely after washing. For the OmieBox, you should remove the silicone gasket for a thorough cleaning. This simple step ensures no moisture gets trapped inside the seals.

Can you use the OmieBox without the thermos?

Yes, you can use the OmieBox without the thermos. The insulated container is removable. This creates a large compartment perfect for a sandwich or a big salad. This feature gives you more flexibility for packing different cold lunches.