Last updated April 29th, 2025
Product Reviews
When you’re RVing, a reliable portable refrigerator is a must-have to keep your food and drinks chilled on the go. To help you pick one for your RV, we’ve compared several options to find the three best portable refrigerators based on key parameters like price, capacity, power, cooling ability, etc.
Portable Refrigerators Comparison Table
Here’s a quick side-by-side look at our three top portable refrigerators:
| Model | ICECO VL60 | Dometic CFX3 45 | SetPower RV45 D |
|---|---|---|---|
| Image | |||
| Price | $849.00 | $849.99 | $399.99 |
| Weight | 67.32 Lbs | 41.23 lbs | 41 Lbs |
| Materials | Metal body, plastic components | 35% plastic, 32% fiber, 21% metal, 12% polyurethane | Durable components (exact materials unspecified) |
| Dimensions | 31.2″x19.5″x18.9″ | 18.74″x15.67″x27.32 | 28.7″x 22.8″ x 18.7“ |
| Warranty | 5 years for the compressor; 1 year for parts | Varies | 3 years compressor |
| Capacity | 63 QT | 46 liters | 45 QT |
| Power | 12/24V DC and 110V to 240V AC | AC, DC, Solar | DC, AC, Power Station, Solar |
| Cooling | Compressor | Compressor | High-efficiency compressor |
1. ICECO VL60 Dual Zone Portable Refrigerator: Best Option for Versatility
Best Option for Versatility
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04/29/2025 07:00 pm GMT
Price: $849.00
Features
- Dual Zone Cooling: The VL60’s standout feature is its dual-zone cooling, letting you set different temperatures for each compartment.
- Fridge and Freezer: Use one side as a fridge and the other as a freezer, or customize both.
- Durability: Durable metal body with high-density foam insulation
- Power Compatibility: It has adual DC (12V/24V) and AC (110V-240V) power compatibility.
- Design and Display: Features a digital display for temperature monitoring and control, a reversible lid to suit different setups, and an insulated cover for extra efficiency.
Pros
- Dual-Zone Flexibility: Independently control each compartment’s temperature for maximum versatility.
- Rugged Construction: Metal body withstands wear and tear better than all plastic models.
- Multiple Power Options: Run it on DC power while driving, then switch to AC at your destination.
Cons
- Weight: At nearly 44 pounds, it’s not the lightest option, especially for solo travelers.
- Noise: Some users have reported that the compressor can be noisy at times.
2. Dometic CFX3 45 Powered Cooler: Our Top Premium Pick
Our Top Premium Pick
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04/29/2025 06:58 pm GMT
Price: $849.99
Features
- Powerful Cooling: Dometic’s CFX3 45 delivers powerful cooling with low power consumption thanks to its VMSO3 variable-speed compressor and optimized software. It can cool down to -7°F while drawing just 0.68 amps per hour.
- Design: It has a heavy-duty yet lightweight ExoFrame construction, a high-resolution color display and soft-touch buttons, and removable wire baskets and dividers for custom organization.
- Capacity: It has a generous 46-liter capacity (fits 67 cans).
- Performance: CFX3 app connectivity via Bluetooth for temperature control and monitoring, and a 3-stage dynamic battery protection to prevent vehicle battery drain.
Pros
- Excellent Efficiency: Maintains frigid temperatures while sipping power — great for off-grid camping.
- Rugged yet Sleek: ExoFrame design balances durability with eye-catching style.
- User-Friendly Controls: Intuitive buttons and display panel, plus handy app control.
Cons
- Pricey: Dometic’s premium quality comes at a corresponding cost.
- Capacity: 46 liters is spacious for couples but might not be enough for families.
3. Setpower RV45D Pro 45Qt 12 Volt Refrigerator Portable Freezer: Best Efficient and Easy-to-Transport Pick
Best Efficient and Easy-to-Transport Pick
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04/29/2025 06:53 pm GMT
Price: $399.99
Features
- Performance: The RV45D Pro offers a 45QT (43L) capacity and a dual-zone design for separate temperature control in the fridge and freezer compartments. It can cool down to -20°C (-4°F) in the freezer and 0°C (32°F) in the fridge.
- Power Compatibility: Versatile power options include 12V, 24V, and 110V-240V, suitable for various setups.
- Faster Cooling: The fast cooling mode chills contents to the set temperature within 15 minutes.
- Design: The sturdy design features detachable wheels and a handle for portability. The LED display and digital controls allow for easy temperature adjustment.
Pros
- Dual-Zone Control: Independent temperature settings for fridge and freezer.
- Multiple Power Options: Compatible with 12V, 24V, and 110V-240V power sources.
- Fast Cooling: Rapidly chills contents without ice.
Cons
- Smaller Capacity: 45QT size may not be sufficient for larger families or extended trips.
- Plastic Construction: May feel less premium compared to metal-bodied competitors.
Factors We Considered When Choosing the Best Portable Refrigerator
When reviewing the top portable refrigerators for RV use, we carefully considered several important factors to help you choose the best one for your needs. Here’s what we looked at:
- Capacity: We evaluated how much food and drink each model could store, ensuring that larger capacity options are available for extended trips or bigger groups. We also recommended some smaller models for solo travellers or weekend getaways.
- Dual vs. Single Zone: We compared dual-zone models, which allow you to refrigerate and freeze separately, with single-zone units that might be sufficient for those who only need refrigeration or have separate freezers.
- Power Consumption: We focused on energy-efficient models with good insulation and compressors that minimize power draw. For off-grid campers, we highlighted units that can run on solar power or feature low-power modes to conserve battery life.
- Durability: Since portability and road resilience are key, we prioritized models with sturdy construction, high-quality insulation, and RV-specific components. Metal exteriors tend to offer better durability, though they may add weight.
- Noise Level: We considered the noise level of each unit, as compressor sounds can be disruptive, especially near sleeping areas. We recommended models with quieter, variable-speed compressors or sound-dampening features.
- Ease of Use: We examined user-friendly features such as digital temperature controls, LED displays, and Bluetooth connectivity for easy monitoring and adjustments while on the road.
- Size and Weight: We took into account the dimensions and weight of each model, ensuring they fit into various RV spaces and are manageable for transport, with some models equipped with wheels for easier movement.
- Warranty: We emphasized the importance of a solid warranty, particularly for the compressor and other critical parts, to ensure long-term reliability and peace of mind.
Choosing the Right Portable Fridge for Your RV Adventures
When it comes to selecting the best portable refrigerator for your RV, it’s all about finding the right balance of capacity, features, and price to suit your specific needs. No matter which model you choose, be sure to properly secure your portable refrigerator during travel and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for optimal use and maintenance.
For more tips on choosing and using RV refrigerators, check out our in-depth guide.
