12v refrigerators are a convenient and necessary addition to any camper or RV. These refrigerators run on the same type of battery that powers the vehicle, making them a perfect choice for those who are on the go and don’t have access to external power.

One of the main benefits of a 12-volt refrigerator is that it allows you to store and keep your food cold and fresh while you are traveling. This is especially important for those who like to go on long road trips or who enjoy camping in remote areas.

Shopping considerations

When shopping for a 12-volt refrigerator, consider the size of the unit and how much storage space you need. Larger refrigerators will obviously have more storage space, but they will also use more power and may not be as efficient. Smaller units may be more efficient, but they may not have enough space to meet your storage needs.

Another important factor to consider is the energy efficiency of the unit. Look for a refrigerator that has a high energy-efficient rating, as this will help you save on your power usage. If you are using a deep-cycle battery bank as a power source, it will naturally last longer before recharging is necessary.

12-volt refrigerators are a great choice for those who like to hit the road and explore new places. They provide a convenient way to keep your fresh food cool and give you the peace of mind that comes with knowing your food is safe to eat. Whether you’re an avid camper or a full-time RVer, a 12-volt refrigerator is a must-have for any adventure.

Best Top Loading 12v Refrigerators

Our Top Pick

ICECO VL60 Dual Zone Portable Refrigerator with SECOP Compressor, 60 Liters

The Iceco VL60 is a portable compressor refrigerator that is designed for use in RVs, campers, and other small spaces. It has a storage capacity of 60 liters, which is plenty of space to store food and drinks for a small group.

These portable fridges come with both a DC cord and an AC cable, making them ideal for car and home use. An independent 12V/24V DC and 110-240V AC output port eliminates the mess of cables and provides a cleaner, safer experience.

A dual zone system allows freezing and refrigeration to be operated independently (freezer & refrigerator, both freezers, and both refrigerators). Moreover, you can turn off one zone to save energy.

A SECOP compressor offers cooling ranges from 0°F to 50°F (-18°C to 10°C) to meet all your freezing or refrigeration requirements. You can choose between MAX mode for faster cooling or ECO mode for more energy-efficient cooling. Even under 40° tilt, SECOP Compressor maintains the refrigerator’s performance.

In addition to its metal shell and thickened inner wall, the lock also folds down for easy storage. In the dark, you’ll have easy access to the interior thanks to convenient interior lights. The fridge is equipped with two wire baskets that can be removed for easy emptying and restocking. The compressor is covered by a 5-year warranty and all other parts are covered by a 1-year warranty.

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The Runner-Up

DOMETIC CFX3 55-Liter Portable Refrigerator and Freezer with ICE MAKER, Powered by AC/DC or Solar Panels

The Dometic CFX is a portable compressor refrigerator that offers a large storage capacity of 55 liters. It is designed to run quietly and efficiently, making it a great choice for those who are looking for a reliable fridge for their RV or camper.

One of the standout features of the Dometic CFX3 55IM is its built-in WiFi app, which allows you to control and monitor the temperature from your smartphone. This can be especially useful if you are on a long road trip and need to make sure that your food stays fresh.

In terms of storage, the Dometic 12v fridge has a removable basket and a divider, which can help you keep your food organized and easy to access. It also has a durable design, with reinforced corners and a robust lid that can withstand rough conditions.

With VMSO3 compressor cooling technology, you can chill or freeze down to –7 °F

Constructed from heavy-duty, lightweight ExoFrame and aluminum alloy handles for maximum durability

A 3-stage dynamic battery protection system prevents dead batteries when powered by AC, DC, or solar power

With CFX3 App, you can control the temperature on your Dometic Fridges via WiFi or Bluetooth and see historical performance data

The high-resolution color display and soft touch buttons allow seamless control and monitoring of the cooler’s performance.

The Dometic CFX3 55IM is an exceptional 12-volt fridge, providing a dependable and convenient method to keep your food fresh while traveling.

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Honorable Mention

Whynter FM-65G 65 Quart Portable Refrigerator, AC 110V/ 12 Volt DC

The Whynter FM-65G is a portable compressor refrigerator that offers a large storage capacity of 65 gallons. It is designed to run quietly and efficiently, making it a great choice for those who are looking for a reliable fridge for their RV or camper.

One of the standout features of the Whynter FM-65G is its ability to operate as either a fridge or a freezer. This can be especially useful if you need to store a mix of perishable and frozen items, as you can simply adjust the temperature to suit your needs.

In terms of design, the Whynter FM-65G has a compact and lightweight build that makes it easy to transport and store. It also has a built-in digital display, which allows you to easily monitor and control the temperature.

The Whynter FM-65G also has a number of convenient features that make it a great choice for travelers. It has a lockable door for added security, as well as a built-in handle and wheels for easy transport.

Overall, the Whynter FM-65G is a reliable and efficient 12-volt refrigerator that is well-suited for use in RVs, campers, and other small spaces. It offers a convenient and cost-effective way to keep your food and drinks fresh while you are on the go.

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Best Front Loading 12v Refrigerators

There are several good front-loading 12-volt refrigerators on the market. Although they are less efficient than top-access refrigerators, there are some cases where cabinets or storage require front access.

Our picks for the top front-loading refrigerators are:

Our Top Pick

RecPro RV Refrigerator Stainless Steel | 10.7 Cubic Feet | 12V | 2 Door Fridge

The RecPro RP-2013 is a 12-volt refrigerator designed for use in RVs, boats, and other off-grid locations. It’s a compressor-based fridge, meaning it uses a compressor and refrigerant to cool the interior. With a capacity of about 20 liters, it’s a relatively small fridge, but it can still hold a decent amount of food and drinks.

One of the main advantages of the RP-2013 is its versatility. It has a temperature range of 23 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit, allowing you to use it as a fridge and a freezer. It also has a built-in thermostat, allowing you to easily adjust the temperature to suit your needs. The fridge is also relatively energy efficient, using a low amount of power to run.

Another key feature of the RP-2013 is its durability. It’s built to withstand rugged conditions and has a sturdy construction. It’s also very easy to clean, with a removable shelf and a smooth interior surface.

Overall, the RecPro RP-2013 is a reliable and versatile 12-volt refrigerator that’s well-suited for use in RVs, boats, and other off-grid locations. If you need a compact and energy-efficient fridge that can handle rough conditions, the RP-2013 is definitely worth considering.

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The Runner Up

It’s a compact fridge designed for RV, boat, or off-grid use, running on both 120 V AC and 12/24 V DC power.
Capacity is about 47.5 quarts (≈ 45 liters) total, with a small freezer compartment.
It features a “smart electronic control” for the compressor’s speed, which claims to increase efficiency by up to 25 %.

Physical dimensions (with flange) are approximately 22″ H × 17.875″ W × 19.75″ D.
It draws ~40 W (≈ 5.5 amps at 12 V) when operating.

Strengths & Pros

Good size for small living spaces (campers, boats) without being too large or heavy.

Dual-power capability (AC + DC) gives flexibility for different power sources (shore power, generator, battery).

The variable compressor control is a useful feature for minimizing power draw when less cooling is needed.

What Are The Different Types Of 12v Refrigerators?

Compressor Type

First up, we have the traditional compressor-based 12v fridges. These units work just like your kitchen refrigerator, using a compressor and refrigerant to cool the interior. The advantage of this type of mini fridge is that it can get very cold, as low as 0 degrees Fahrenheit in some cases. This makes it ideal for storing perishable items like meat and dairy products. The downside is that compressor-based refrigerators tend to be heavier and more expensive than other options. They also consume more power, making them less energy efficient.

Thermoelectric Type

Next, we have thermoelectric 12-volt fridges. These units use the Peltier effect to cool the interior, making them a more lightweight and affordable option. The main advantage of thermoelectric fridges is that they’re relatively quiet and don’t vibrate as much as compressor-based models. They’re also more energy efficient, using less power to run.

However, thermoelectric fridges have a limited temperature range and are not as effective at keeping things as cold as compressor-based models. Thermoelectric coolers are also not suitable for storing perishable items, as they can’t get cold enough to prevent spoilage. They can only cool 40 degrees lower than the ambient temperature outside.

Absorption Type

Finally, we have absorption 12-volt fridges. These units work by using heat to power a small generator, which in turn powers the fridge. Absorption fridges are very quiet and don’t vibrate, making them a good choice for use in RVs and boats. They’re also relatively lightweight and affordable. The main downside of absorption fridges is that they’re not as energy efficient as other options, and they tend to be slower at cooling down. They also have a limited temperature range, making them less suitable for storing perishable items, especially with warmer outside ambient temperatures.

In conclusion, the type of 12-volt refrigerator that’s right for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you need to store perishable items and want the coldest temperature possible, a compressor-based fridge may be the way to go. If you’re looking for something lightweight, quiet, and energy-efficient, a thermoelectric fridge might be a better choice. And if you need a fridge for use in an RV or boat, an absorption fridge could be the perfect fit. No matter which type you choose, make sure to consider the pros and cons of each before making your decision.

How long will a 120AH battery run a 12v refrigerator?

It is difficult to accurately determine how long a 120AH battery will run a 12V fridge, as it depends on various factors such as the size and power consumption of the fridge, as well as the ambient temperature and how often the fridge is opened.

12V refrigerators can be powered by a battery, and the size of the battery and the power draw of the fridge will determine how long the fridge will run on a single charge.

The power draw of a 12V fridge is usually measured in amps. For example, a fridge that has a power draw of 3 amps will use about 36 watts of power per hour (12V x 3A = 36W). If you are using a 120AH battery to power this fridge, you can estimate the runtime by dividing the capacity of the battery (120AH) by the power draw of the fridge (36W). In this case, the fridge would be able to run for about 3.33 hours (120AH / 36W = 3.33 hours).

1. You have a 75 Watt Refrigerator
2. You have a 100Ah battery. It has a capacity of 1,200Wh. (12 Volts X 100ah )

When will the battery run out? Here’s how you calculate that:

100Ah Battery Run Time = Battery Capacity / Fridge Wattage

In our case, this is:

100Ah Battery Run Time = 1,200Wh / 75W = 16 Hours

Add the 20% Safety Margin: 16 Hours – 20% (3.2 Hours) = 12.8 Hours

Watts to Amps Calculator

Battery Run Time Calculator

Remember that this estimate is based on the fridge cranking away the whole time…which it won’t. When it reaches the desired temperature, it runs only occasionally to maintain the set point.

Some 12V fridges have a built-in power cord that can be plugged into a cigarette lighter outlet, which allows them to be powered by a vehicle’s battery while the engine is running. This can be a convenient way to extend the runtime of the fridge, especially if you are using it on the go. However, it’s important to note that these are just estimates and the actual runtime may vary depending on the conditions and the age and condition of the battery.