Why You Should Get A 12V Fridge/Freezer Instead Of A 12V Cooler
Welcome to our deep dive into 12V refrigerator freezers! After years on the road, I can tell you there’s a big difference between regular 12V coolers and true 12V refrigerators – and it’s not just the price tag.
Here’s the thing about those budget-friendly 12V coolers: while they might seem like a great deal, they can only cool about 32 degrees below the outside temperature. That means on an 80-degree day, your cooler is sitting at 48 degrees – nowhere near cold enough for safe food storage.
True 12V refrigerators, on the other hand, are built tough and maintain safe temperatures no matter how hot it gets outside. Most can even double as freezers!
They’re perfect for van life, car camping, or just having extra cold storage in your RV. Best of all? You can say goodbye to soggy sandwiches and daily ice runs.
Whether you’re kitting out a new van build or just need more fridge space for your next adventure, I’ll walk you through the best portable 12V refrigerator freezers on the market.
Let’s find the perfect cooling companion for your camping lifestyle!
- Best On A Budget: BougeRV CR22 | #3_BougeRV_CR22 | Offers quick cooling to freezing temperatures in a compact, power-efficient package that’s perfect for solo travelers and weekend warriors. | View on Amazon
- My Choice: BougeRV CRD45 | #9_BougeRV_CRD45 | Delivers separate fridge/freezer compartments and smart app control at a fraction of premium prices, with helpful wheels and handle for easy transport. | View on Amazon
- Best For Rough Roads: Iceco VL35 | #10_Iceco_VL35 | Features bombproof steel construction and a premium SECOP compressor that keeps working at extreme angles, ideal for overlanding and off-road adventures. | View on Amazon
- Best Overall: Dometic CFX3 | #11_Dometic_CFX3 | Combines massive dual-zone capacity with WiFi/Bluetooth control and rugged construction, making it the ultimate choice for serious off-grid adventures. | View on Amazon
Best 12 Volt Refrigerator Freezers Info
| Model | Power Options | Lowest Temperature | Power Usage | Fridge/Freezer | Dual Zone | App Controls | Size Options | Weight | Link | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Vevor NL15 Fridge/Freezer | DC, AC | -4°F (-20°C) | 35W | Yes | No | Yes | 16, 21, 39, 47.6 QT | 19.2 lb/8.7 kg | Amazon |
 | Euhomy CFZ-30 12V Fridge/Freezer | DC, AC | -4°F (-20°C) | 45W | Yes | No | Yes | 22, 32 QT | 29.4 lb/13.4 kg | Amazon |
 | BougeRV CR22 12V Fridge/Freezer | DC, AC | -7°F (-22°C) | 36W (eco) | Yes | No | No | 23, 30 QT | 22.3 lb/10.1 kg | Amazon |
 | Alpicool C20 12V Fridge/Freezer | DC, AC | -4°F (-20°C) | 45W | Yes | No | Yes | 16, 17, 20 QT | 18.9 lb/8.6 kg | Amazon |
 | Domende HC-50 12V Fridge/Freezer | DC, AC | -4°F (-20°C) | No info | Yes | No | Yes | 54 QT | 40 lbs/18.2 kg | Amazon |
 | Bodegacooler T50 12V Fridge/Freezer | DC, AC | -4°F (-20°C) | 60W | Yes | Yes | Yes | 38, 53, 64 QT | 38.6 lb/17.5 kg | Amazon |
 | BougeRV CRPRO30 VIP 12V Fridge/Freezer | DC, AC | -8°F (-22.2°C) | 36W (eco) | Yes | No | No | 21, 30 QT | 27.6 lb/12.5 kg | Amazon |
 | Setpower PT35 12V Fridge/Freezer | DC, AC | -0°F (-17.8°C) | 35W (eco) | Yes | Yes | No | 37, 48, 58 QT | 38 lbs/17.2 kg | Amazon |
 | BougeRV CRD45 12V Fridge/Freezer | DC, AC | -4°F (-20°C) | 45W (eco) | Yes | Yes | Yes | 37, 48, 59 QT | 40.5 lbs/18.4 kg | Amazon |
 | Iceco VL35 12V Fridge/Freezer | DC, AC | -0°F (-17.8°C) | 55W | Yes | No | No | 35, 45, 60, 75, 90 L | 48.6 lbs/22 kg | Amazon |
 | Dometic CFX3 12V Fridge/Freezer | DC, AC | -7°F (-22°C) | 50W | Yes | Yes | Yes | 25, 35, 45, 55, 75, 95, 100 L | 65.7 lbs/29.8 kg | Amazon |
Reviews
1. Vevor NL15
My Thoughts
Looking for a budget-friendly 12V fridge that doesn’t skimp on features? The Vevor NL15 has caught my attention as a solid compact option. With its 15L capacity (enough for about 17 cans), it’s perfect for weekend warriors and small camping setups who don’t need massive storage.
What’s really impressive is how quickly this little fridge gets cold – the compressor cooling system can hit -4°F in about an hour. And unlike those basic 12V coolers, it maintains that temperature regardless of the weather outside.
I particularly like that it runs quietly at under 45dB, so you won’t have to listen to it humming all night in your van or camper.
The fridge comes with some nice modern touches, like Bluetooth app control for adjusting temperatures from your phone and an LED touchscreen.
It’s also pretty versatile with power – you can run it on 12V/24V DC or standard 100-240V AC. If you are on the move a lot, I recommend powering it with a portable power station.
Even better, it keeps cooling at up to a 45-degree tilt, which is great news for those rough forest service roads.
We recently reviewed the larger Vevor T60, which is a great option if you want something larger with wheels and dual-zone.
My Verdict
For weekend camping trips and small rigs, the Vevor NL15 delivers impressive cooling in a compact package.
While the 15L capacity might be tight for longer trips and the build quality isn’t luxury-grade, its quick cooling and smart features make it a solid choice for anyone testing the waters of 12V fridges.
Pros
- Fast cooling
- Quiet operation
- Smart app control
- Flexible power options
- Works on uneven terrain
- Budget-friendly price
Cons
- Limited 15L capacity
- Basic build materials
- No separate freezer compartment
- Might be too small for longer trips
2. Euhomy CFZ-30
My Thoughts
Need more space than a tiny fridge, but don’t want a power-hungry beast? The Euhomy 30L hits that sweet spot perfectly.
What really caught my eye with this unit is its impressive cooling speed – it can drop from room temperature to fridge-cold in just 15 minutes. That’s seriously quick when you’re trying to keep your road trip groceries fresh!
Inside, you get 30L of flexible storage space with removable dividers, which is perfect for organizing your food and drinks without playing Tetris every time you need a snack.
The compressor cools all the way down to -4°F, and you can switch between Eco mode for saving power and Max mode when you need quick cooling. Even better, it only draws 45W, so it won’t kill your vehicle battery – especially with its three-level battery protection system.
At night, the built-in LED light helps you find what you’re looking for without waking up your camping buddies, and the fridge stays whisper-quiet at 45dB.
You can power it with either 12V/24V DC or regular household AC power, making it super versatile for any camping setup.
Compared to the Vevor NL15 above, this model by Euhomy has twice the fridge capacity, but uses more power.
My Verdict
For longer trips or small families, the Euhomy 30L delivers the perfect mix of space and efficiency. While it’s heavier than compact models and lacks fancy Bluetooth features, its quick cooling and smart power management make it a reliable companion for serious campers.
Pros
- Fast cooling
- Flexible storage with dividers
- Smart battery protection
- Smart app control
- Built-in LED light
- Efficient power usage
- Plenty of space
Cons
- Could use a stronger lid
- Takes up more storage space than smaller models
3. BougeRV CR22
My Thoughts
For solo adventurers and weekend warriors, the BougeRV CR22 packs some impressive features into a compact package. With its 23-quart capacity, it’s the perfect size for keeping your drinks and snacks cold without hogging all your cargo space.
It cools down fast to freezing in just 15 minutes, yet it sips power so gently that it only uses about 360Wh per day in Eco-mode. When you’re living off your vehicle’s battery, that kind of efficiency really matters.
The unit handles bumpy forest roads like a champ, working fine even at a 30-degree tilt. It keeps quiet too, running at just 45dB – about as loud as a whisper.
The three-level battery protection is a lifesaver for boondockers, making sure you don’t wake up to a dead vehicle battery.
I consider this the best option for people on a small budget. Sure, it doesn’t have any smart features, but it’s a good size for camping, efficient, has battery protection, and gets colder than the two above. It’s a basic 12V fridge that does the job, and if you want something larger, there is also a 30 Qt option.
If you would like to have smartphone controls, the Vevor and Euhomy fridges above are also great fridges.
My Verdict
Perfect for weekend adventures and solo travelers, the BougeRV CR22 delivers quick cooling and reliable performance in a compact package.
While you won’t fit a week’s worth of groceries in it, and it needs some shade to perform its best, it’s an excellent choice for those who want efficient cooling without taking up too much space.
Pros
- Fast cooling
- Impressively low power draw
- Magnetic lid
- Handles rough roads well
- Quiet operation
- Smart battery protection
- Compact size for easy storage
Cons
- Limited 23-quart capacity
- No smart features
- Needs shade to work best
- Might be too small for families
4. Alpicool C20
My Thoughts
If you’re looking for a compact fridge that won’t break the bank, the Alpicool C20 might be just what you need. With a 20L capacity (think enough space for about 20 sodas), it’s perfect for weekend warriors and solo travelers who don’t need to haul around a massive fridge.
Don’t let its small size fool you – this little powerhouse can cool down to -4°F with no ice needed. The thick foam insulation keeps everything cold even when unplugged for a bit, and I really appreciate that it weighs less than some other models thanks to its sturdy plastic construction.
One feature I particularly like is its three-level battery protection system – super important when you’re running off your vehicle’s power.
You can use it with both 12/24V DC and regular household AC power, so it’s ready for everything from car camping to boat trips.
My Verdict
Write your verdict here.
Pros
- Fast cooling
- Easy to move around
- Efficient power use
- Good battery protection
- Versatile power options
- Budget-friendly price
Cons
- Limited 20L capacity
- Basic feature set
- Simple plastic construction
- Might be too small for families
5. Domende HC-50
My Thoughts
When you need serious storage capacity in your RV or van, the Domende 54Qt steps up to the plate. This hefty fridge combines the convenience of both AC and DC power with some smart features that make it great for extended trips.
The compressor cooling system can drop temps all the way down to -4°F, making it work as both a fridge and freezer.
I like the three-level battery protection system – you can set it to H1, H2, or H3 depending on how much juice your vehicle can spare. For most car and RV setups, the H2 (medium) setting hits the sweet spot.
What makes this unit stand out is its blend of size and smarts. The LCD display lets you dial in exact temperatures from -4°F to 68°F, and you can control everything through the “Car Fridge Freezer” app on your phone.
The included divider helps keep your food organized, and there’s even a USB port for charging your devices.
My Verdict
The Domende 54Qt is a solid choice for families or full-timers who need plenty of cooling space.
While it’s bigger than your weekend warrior might need, its combination of capacity and features makes it perfect for serious RV and van life setups.
Pros
- Fast cooling
- Large 54-quart capacity
- Smart battery protection
- App control capability
- Built-in USB charging
- ECO and MAX cooling modes
- Adjustable divider included
Cons
- Large footprint
- Heavier than compact units
- Uses more power than smaller fridges
- Might be too big for small rigs
6. Bodegacooler T50
My Thoughts
Want the ultimate in portable cooling? The Bodegacooler T50 (53 qt) is like having two fridges in one! With its dual-zone design (30Qt + 23Qt), you can keep your drinks cold in one compartment while freezing ice cream in the other.
Even better, the larger zone can hit 32°F in just 15 minutes – perfect when you’re loading up fresh groceries for a long trip.
One of my favorite features is the built-in wheels and retractable handle. Anyone who’s lugged around a loaded portable fridge knows what a back-saver that can be!
The Bluetooth app control is pretty sweet too – you can check temps without getting out of your sleeping bag on those chilly mornings.
Speaking of power, this unit comes with a three-level battery protection system to keep your vehicle’s battery healthy. There’s even a USB port for charging your phone and an LED light inside for those midnight snack runs.
Whether you’re running it off your car’s 12V, your RV’s 12V/24V, or regular household power, it’s ready to go.
You can read our full review of the T50 model here.
My Verdict
For longer trips where you need both fridge and freezer space, the Bodegacooler T50 is hard to beat. While it’s bigger and heavier than single-zone units, those wheels and smart features make it a joy to use. Just remember to power it on before trying to connect the app!
Pros
- Separate fridge and freezer zones
- Fast cooling
- Built-in wheels for easy moving
- Smart app control
- USB charging port
- Interior LED light
Cons
- Heavier to lift
- Might be too big for small vans
7. BougeRV CRPRO30 VIP
My Thoughts
Now here’s a fridge that’s built for serious off-grid adventures! The BougeRV CRPRO30 VIP really caught my attention with its impressive VIP insulation technology – it can keep your food frozen for up to 37 hours after unplugging. That’s a game-changer when you’re deep in the backcountry or trying to conserve power during extended boondocking.
The 30-quart capacity hits that sweet spot between storage and efficiency, using only 36W in Eco-mode. That’s a big deal when you’re running off solar or trying to stretch your battery life.
I love that they included four tie-down points – anyone who’s heard their fridge sliding around on a forest service road knows how important that is!
This unit stays whisper-quiet at 45dB and handles rough terrain like a champ, working fine even at a 30-degree tilt.
The built-in LED light is super handy for those midnight snack runs, and there’s even a dedicated storage box that can hold the optional power station for extended runtime.
My Verdict
For overlanders and serious boondockers, the BougeRV CRPRO30’s incredible insulation and low power draw make it a standout choice.
While it lacks fancy app controls and weighs a bit more than similar-sized units, its ability to keep food frozen for over a day without power is worth its weight in gold.
Pros
- Fast cooling
- Amazing 37-hour unplugged cooling
- Efficient power use
- Built-in tie-down points
- Handles rough roads well
- Useful storage box option
- Quiet operation
Cons
- No smart features
- Heavier than competitors
- Basic control interface
8. Setpower PT35
My Thoughts
When you want the best of both worlds, the Setpower PT35’s dual-zone design really delivers!
With its dual zone temp control, you can keep your ice cream frozen while your drinks stay perfectly chilled. This thing gets cold fast too – we’re talking fridge temps in 15 minutes and proper freezing in under an hour.
It’s up to you which compartment you want to be a fridge or freezer. You could also use both for either.
What really impresses me about this unit is how efficient it runs. In Eco mode, it sips just 35W of power, bumping up to 52W when you need max cooling. That’s pretty remarkable for a dual-zone setup!
It’s also one of the quietest options out there at just 42dB – about as loud as a library whisper.
If you’re into overlanding or rough roads, you’ll love that this fridge keeps working at up to a 40-degree tilt.
The three-stage battery protection means you won’t wake up to a dead vehicle battery, and the built-in LED lights make midnight snack raids a breeze.
We haven’t tested the PT35, but here is a review we did on the Setpower RV45D.
My Verdict
For campers who want both fridge and freezer space without hauling two separate units, the Setpower PT35 is a fantastic choice.
While it takes up more space than single-zone models, its efficient operation and reliable performance make it perfect for extended trips.
Pros
- Separate fridge and freezer zones
- Fast cooling
- Ultra-quiet operation
- Great for rough terrain
- Smart power management
- Built-in LED lighting
Cons
- Bulky for small spaces
- No app control
- Doesn’t get as cold as the others
9. BougeRV CRD45
My Thoughts
Looking for the Swiss Army knife of portable fridges? The BougeRV CRD45 might be your answer! With 45L of dual-zone storage and some seriously clever features, this unit is built for those who want it all.
I love that you can roll it around on built-in wheels – no more breaking your back moving a loaded fridge!
The cooling performance is impressive, hitting fridge temps in just 15 minutes and freezing in an hour. What’s really smart is how efficient it runs – just 45W in Eco mode and 60W when you need max cooling.
The Bluetooth app lets you control both zones from your phone, perfect for those lazy mornings when you don’t want to leave your sleeping bag.
Some thoughtful touches really make this fridge stand out. There’s a built-in chopping board, USB charging for your devices, and even a removable door for flexible access. The three-level battery protection keeps your vehicle’s battery safe, and it stays whisper-quiet at 45dB.
We previously reviewed the predecessor to the CRD45, the CR45.
If you’re choosing between the BougeRV CRD45 and the Setpower PT35, the CRD45 offers app control, more storage and wheels, while the PT35 is slightly more compact and budget-friendly.
I view this as the best option for somebody like myself that wants a dual-zone fridge/freezer with wheels, a lot of space, separate removable lids, smartphone controls, and fast cooling. The Bodegacooler T50 is also a good contender, but it does not have separate lids for the two zones.
My Verdict
For extended trips where you need serious cooling capacity, the CRD45 delivers the goods.
While it’s bigger and heavier than single-zone units, those wheels and smart features make it a joy to use. Just remember to power it on before trying to connect the app!
Pros
- Fast cooling
- Dual-zone capacity
- Built-in wheels for easy moving
- Smart app control
- Efficient power use
- Clever built-in features
- Removable door design
Cons
- Takes up more space
- Might be overkill for weekenders
10. Iceco VL35
My Thoughts
If you’re serious about off-road adventures, the Iceco VL35 is built to handle whatever you throw at it. What sets this fridge apart is its SECOP compressor – that’s the Mercedes of portable fridge compressors, folks! The steel construction and corner protectors mean this thing can take a beating on those rough forest service roads.
One feature I really love is the multi-directional lid. Anyone who’s tried to access their fridge in a tight van setup knows what a game-changer this is. No more awkward reaching or rearranging your whole layout just to grab a cold drink.
Another thing that makes organizing easier is the included removable basket.
The dual 12/24V DC ports make installation flexible too.
For cooling performance, this unit hits 0°F when you need serious freezing power, but you can also run it in Eco mode to save juice.
The built-in drain plug makes cleaning a breeze (trust me, you’ll appreciate this after a long trip), and it keeps working even at a 40-degree tilt.
Having dual USB ports for charging your devices (only works in 12V mode) is just icing on the cake.
If you want a fridge that can handle rough roads, the Iceco VL35 and Dometic CFX3 are both excellent, but the Dometic has dual zones and app control, making it more versatile for long trips.
My Verdict
Write your verdict here.
Pros
- Fast cooling
- Top-tier SECOP compressor
- Built like a tank
- Flexible lid access
- Easy-clean drain plug
- Removable basket
- Dual power ports
- Handles extreme angles
Cons
- Premium price tag
- No Wi-Fi/Bluetooth control
- Overkill for casual use
11. Dometic CFX3
My Thoughts
If you’re looking for the absolute king of portable fridges, meet the Dometic CFX3 95DZ. With a massive 95L capacity split into two zones, this is the fridge that full-time RVers dream about.
The VMSO3 compressor is a beast, hitting temperatures as low as -7°F while somehow still sipping power like it’s on a diet. If you would like to learn more about how much power a Dometic fridge uses, check out this article where I compare all of their models to Alpicool fridges.
What really makes this unit special is how smart it is. The CFX3 app lets you control everything from your phone using either WiFi or Bluetooth – perfect for checking temps from your camping chair. It also has a USB port for charging smaller devices.
And that ExoFrame construction? It’s built like a tank with reinforced corners and aluminum handles that can take a beating on rough roads.
Whether you’re running on AC, DC, or solar, the three-stage battery protection keeps your battery safe.
The high-resolution display makes it easy to check settings at a glance, though you’ll probably end up using the app most of the time.
Between the BougeRV CRD45 and the Dometic CFX3, the Dometic offers the most advanced features and extreme cooling performance, but the BougeRV is a solid value for those wanting dual-zone functionality without the premium price.
My Verdict
For serious overlanders and full-time RVers who need maximum capacity and cutting-edge features, the Dometic CFX3 95DZ is the cream of the crop.
Yes, it’s a big investment and takes up serious space, but for extended off-grid adventures, nothing else comes close.
Pros
- Fast cooling
- Huge dual-zone capacity
- Pro-grade cooling power
- Removable lid
- Smart Wi-Fi/Bluetooth control
- USB charging
- Built for rough conditions
- Solar power compatible
- Premium construction
Cons
- Premium price tag
- Takes up lots of space
Conclusion – My Top Picks
After testing many models over years of RV travel, I’ve narrowed down the absolute best 12V fridges for every camping situation.
Whether you’re looking for maximum capacity or budget-friendly cooling, these top picks deliver reliable performance on the road.
- Best Budget Option: BougeRV CR22 – For those looking for an affordable yet capable 12V fridge, the BougeRV CR22 is the best budget pick. It cools quickly, reaching -5°F in under an hour, and runs quietly at 45dB. It has an energy-efficient design with Eco and Max modes, ensuring low power draw. The compact 23-quart size makes it a great option for solo travelers, weekend campers, or anyone needing a small, efficient fridge without spending too much.
- Best Value Dual-Zone: BougeRV CRD45 – For campers who want separate fridge and freezer compartments without the premium price tag, the BougeRV CRD45 hits the sweet spot. With 45L of dual-zone storage, Bluetooth app control, and nifty features like built-in wheels and a retractable handle, it delivers impressive functionality at a more accessible price point. It cools quickly too – hitting freezing temperatures in about an hour. The three-level battery protection and relatively low power consumption (45W in Eco mode) make it perfect for weekend warriors and longer trips alike.
- Best for Rough Roads: Iceco VL35 – For overlanders and off-road enthusiasts, the Iceco VL35 is built to survive where other fridges fail. The premium SECOP compressor delivers reliable cooling even in extreme heat, while the steel construction with reinforced corners can handle serious abuse. I particularly love the multi-directional lid that makes access easy in tight spaces, and the impressive 40-degree tilt capability means it keeps working even on the steepest mountain trails. It’s heavier than plastic models but worth every pound when reliability matters most.
- Best Overall: Dometic CFX3 – The Dometic CFX3 stands head and shoulders above the competition with its premium construction and smart features. This beast offers huge 95L dual-zone capacity, ultra-cold temperatures down to -7°F, and WiFi/Bluetooth control through the CFX3 app. The rugged ExoFrame construction means it can handle rough roads without missing a beat. Yes, it’s the priciest option, but for serious travelers who need the best, nothing else comes close.
What To Look For In A 12 Volt Refrigerator/Freezer
After years on the road with different portable fridges, I’ve learned that choosing the right one comes down to three key factors. Let me break these down to help you find your perfect cooling companion.
Space Considerations
First things first – where will your fridge live?
These portable units come in all shapes and sizes, from tiny 15L models to massive 95L dual-zone beasts.
Make sure to measure your space carefully, especially in tight van builds or truck setups.
Don’t forget about the compressor vents – these need proper airflow to prevent damage and keep cooling efficiently.
For those with limited access, consider one of the sliding mounts that bolt to your floor. These let you easily pull your fridge out from under a bed, bench seat, or countertop.
If you’re mounting in a truck bed, double-check your canopy height – some of the taller units won’t fit under standard truck bed covers.
Power Management
Your electrical setup will heavily influence which fridge works best for your adventures.
While most 12V fridges are relatively efficient (using 35-60W), they’ll draw more power in extreme heat.
Whenever possible, place your fridge in the coolest, most shaded part of your vehicle.
For boondockers and solar users, pay special attention to the fridge’s power consumption ratings and battery protection features.
Many models offer Eco modes that significantly reduce power draw.
Those three-level battery protection systems are absolute lifesavers – they’ll shut down your fridge before draining your vehicle’s battery completely.
Long-Term Reliability
While any decent 12V fridge will work fine for weekends or short trips, full-timers need to think about long-term durability. Premium compressors (like SECOP) and better construction materials make a huge difference after months of continuous use.
Consider investing in a higher-end model if you’ll be using it daily for extended periods. The extra money spent upfront can save you headaches down the road.
Steel construction, reinforced corners, and quality compressors are worth every penny for serious travelers who depend on their fridge day in and day out.
