Portacool APEX 4000
For warehouses, loading docks and outdoor events where one big cooler has to cover a wide area.
Amazon $3,500$3,500
The Portacool APEX 4000 is the better evaporative cooler overall, rated 4.2 to 4.1. The Portacool APEX 4000 leads on value. The Portacool APEX 4000 costs $199 less ($3,500 vs $3,699).
Big Ass Fans Cool-Space 400
For factories, warehouses and gyms that want commercial build quality and a long warranty in a cooler that plugs into a regular outlet.
Amazon $3,699$3,699
Prices were last checked October 31, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
Which should you buy?
- Choose the Portacool APEX 4000 for value ($262.17 per 1,000 CFM ($3,500, 13,350 CFM) vs $369.90 per 1,000 CFM ($3,699, 10,000 CFM)).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every 2,000 CFM and up evaporative cooler; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Portacool APEX 4000 | Big Ass Fans Cool-Space 400 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 4.2/5 | 4.1/5 |
| Value 30% | 48 $262.17 per 1,000 CFM ($3,500, 13,350 CFM) | 35 $369.90 per 1,000 CFM ($3,699, 10,000 CFM) |
| Airflow 25% | 100 13,350 CFM | 100 10,000 CFM |
| Tank 10% | 100 55 gal tank | 100 46 gal tank |
| Features 15% | 50 rigid cooling pads, hose hookup | 50 rigid cooling pads, hose hookup |
| Warranty 20% | 100 3-year warranty | 100 5-year warranty |
Specifications
| Portacool APEX 4000 | Big Ass Fans Cool-Space 400 | |
|---|---|---|
| Cooling | ||
| Airflow | 13,350 CFM | 10,000 CFM |
| Cooling area | 6,000 sq ft | 3,600 sq ft |
| Cooling pads | Rigid cellulose | Rigid cellulose |
| Pad thickness | - | 8 in |
| Tank | 55 gal | 46 gal |
| Hose hookup | Yes | Yes |
| Controls and build | ||
| Fan speeds | 5 | - |
| Oscillation | No | - |
| Remote | No | No |
| Weight | 220 lb | 220 lb |
| Warranty | 3 years | 5 years |
| Released | 2023-10 | - |