14 Best Portable Refrigerators Reviews and Guide
Table of Contents
Why You Need a Portable Refrigerator?
The portable refrigerator is exactly what it looks like – a compact gadget that is simple to transport and uses either AC or DC energy to preserve its contents at a cold temperature. These items have very specialized purposes, and their use may benefit certain contexts. A portable refrigerator is a must if you like going on vacations, road trips, or even just spending time outside. However, these are not the only factors why thinking about them is a smart move.
There is no substitute for having a portable fridge inside your vehicle or at your campground if you want to carry the conveniences of the house with you when you go on the road. It frees you from the hassle of dealing with a container filled with ice and food that has become soggy. And even though the finest portable refrigerators aren’t exactly inexpensive, owning one means you can save money (and eat better) by preparing your meals at home.
On the other hand, this implies that you will need to choose the appropriate product from literally hundreds of different models. That is not a simple undertaking in today’s world. On the other hand, it is feasible if sufficient investigation, testing, and analysis are conducted. And our article today brings you exactly what is needed on this subject, a thoroughly prepared list that can assist you in choosing the best portable refrigerator for yourself.
Quick Summary
1. Best overall Refrigerator: Alpicool C15 Portable Refrigerator 16 Quart
2. Highest Value Refrigerator: ICECO JP40 Portable Refrigerator Fridge Freezer
3. Best Refrigerator for outdoor camping: AstroAI Portable Car Refrigerator 16 Quart
4. Most Efficient Mini Refrigerator: CROWNFUL Mini Fridge
5. Highest Capacity refrigerator: ICECO VL65 68 Quart
6. Best Refrigerator for one person: Euhomy 12 Volt Refrigerator
7. Lowest Power Drawing Refrigerator: F40C4TMP Portable Refrigerator 20 Quart
9. Economical warranty offer: AstroAI 12 Volt Refrigerator 58 Quart
10. Smart App Control refrigerator: BODEGA Car Fridge Dual Zone APP Control
11. Best Car Protection Refrigerator: SetPower FC12 13.5 Quarts
12. Most Efficient Energy Saving Refrigerator: JoyTutus 12 Volt Refrigerator, 42 Quart
13. Lowest Temperature Refrigerator: Setpower TC35 37 Quarts Portable Freezer
14. Strongest Quiet technology Refrigerator: KEED BING 42 Quart Car Refrigerator
Top Rated Portable Refrigerators
1. Alpicool C15 Portable Refrigerator 16 Quart
According to the thorough testing we did at home, the Alpicool’s versatility and efficiency are unrivaled. The Alpicool CF45 distinguishes from the other products on the market due to the very affordable pricing. It results in cost savings but does not achieve the promised lowest temperature. It comes with an “Eco” mode that lowers the energy used when you need to unplug. The cooler’s capacity stays constant more than it is expanded, making it a moderate food storage option. This is because the cooler has large cables and needless circular cuts.
Product Specs:
- Voltage: 12V
- Capacity: 15L
Pros:
- The storage and capacity are more than enough for a portable refrigerator.
- Reliable refrigeration and the temperatures are maintained.
- The LCD Panel gives a sleek modernistic look.
- Shockproof and Anti-shake features withstand jerks and tosses.
Cons:
- Not durable, it takes time to cool.
- The internal shape can be challenging to use.
2. ICECO VL65 68 Quart Dual Zone Portable Refrigerator
Each of the two compartments in this chest-style fridge can be opened independently and has a combined capacity of 65 liters. In other words, you keep food in one of the containers and not have to worry about the other leaking chilly air.
In addition, the fridge seems to have an Lcd screen that allows you to regulate the temperature. After you turn it on, it takes less than an hour to cool down entirely. Due to its wide temperature range of 0 to 50 degrees F may also be used as a freezer. Two wires are included with the fridge, which can run on either AC or DC. It’s a wonderful choice for campers and family picnics because of its adaptability. Additionally, the anti-fingerprint texture makes cleaning a breeze.
The Iceco is an excellent choice if you’re especially seeking a refrigerator of this sort. However, if unsure, you should first look at a few different refrigerators. The Iceco refrigerator is exceedingly well-built and runs quite well. However, the premium price point may be off-putting to many individuals. Despite this, the compressor includes a 5-year guarantee, and the remaining components have a 1-year warranty.
Product Specs:
- Power Consumption: 80W
- Weight: 52.5 lbs
- Capacity: 88L
Pros:
- Glass Shelves
- Quiet and smooth running
- Excellent insulation and freezing
Cons:
- Big and heavy.
- It may require an electric output.
3. ICECO JP40 Portable Refrigerator Fridge Freezer
ICECO is an up-and-coming competitor providing the best options to users and outdoor enthusiasts. The JP40 provides a 50-liter capacity without the additional weight and weighs in at just 37.5 lbs.
Two wires are included with the fridge, which can run on either AC or DC. It’s a wonderful choice for campers and family picnics because of its adaptability. Additionally, the anti-fingerprint texture makes cleaning a breeze.
The Iceco is an excellent choice if you’re especially seeking a refrigerator of this sort. However, if unsure, you should first look at a few different refrigerators. The Iceco refrigerator is exceedingly well-built and runs quite well. However, the premium price point may be off-putting to many individuals. Despite this, the compressor includes a 5-year guarantee, and the remaining components have a 1-year warranty.
Product Specs:
- Capacity: 50L
- Voltage: 12/24V
- Power Consumption: 80W
Pros:
- It fits the cargo area
- The slide is smooth and locks into place
- Ample storage space
Cons:
- The controls are placed at the rear
- The lid opening position is unconventional
4. F40C4TMP Portable Refrigerator 20 Quart 12 Volt Freezer
The F40C4TMP served its main purpose for people to enjoy going off-grid camping (boondocking). It is a fantastic option because it can operate on either 12- or 24-volts DC. Enhancing the cooling capacity of the gas refrigerator in your RV will enable you to stock up on fresh food without having to make as many visits to the store. Bulk purchases may come in handy when staying in RV parks for an extended period.
There are quite a few RV refrigerators that are just insufficient in size, and the F40C4TMP is not one of them. The product generally lived up to its claim that it could cool to -4 degrees Fahrenheit (-18C). Digital temperature control may be accomplished with the use of a touchpad. During my tests, I found that the power drain was, on average, thirty watts. Tolerable for the off-grid systems of most recreational vehicles (RVs) and the alternator and battery of automobiles when traveling.
Product Specs:
- Capacity: 20 quarts
- Power Consumption: 60W
- Voltage: 12V
Pros:
- Lower Power Draw
- Strong spring-loaded handles
- Shockproof for mobile operation
Cons:
- The lid catch is made of plastic
5. BODEGA 12 Volt Car Refrigerator, Portable Freezer, Car Fridge Dual Zone APP Control
Bodega mobile fridge 12v has a protection system for various levels H, M, and L. The system can correspond to a different voltage during startup and during a shutdown, respectively. A powerful compressor can lower the temperature of an empty portable refrigerator to 0 degrees Fahrenheit in just fifteen minutes when set to the maximum setting. RV freezer design of wireless control whenever you shut off the electricity during your trip, be sure to keep items at a very cool temperature. If you need to keep more frozen meals, we suggest you pre-cool your refrigerator before going on your trip. This will keep the food from spoiling.
it includes two zones, each of which can have its temperature independently regulated, and it also includes two zones. each zone comes equipped with 18l (19 quart) = 36l (38 quart).
You may remove the middle plate if you just want one zone to exist if you do.
This spacious RV refrigerator can store 41 cans of cola, 21 bottles of water, or 13 bottles of red wine. You are the only one who can decide whether you want to use the refrigerator or the freezer first. App or manual control are both options for our car’s portable refrigerator. The Bodega is an amazing option for outdoor enthusiasts as it is a smart refrigerator that allows easy control.
Product Specs:
- Capacity: 36L
- Voltage: 12V
- Wattage: 60W
Pros:
- Energy-saving and low consumption
- Dual Zone and App control
- Anti-shaking and Shockproof
Cons:
- It needs pre-cooling in the summers
- Lower capacity
6. Euhomy 12 Volt Refrigerator
The Euhomy, 12 Volt Refrigerator is an exceptional option for outdoor camping as it is portable and has smart controls. The refrigerator is equipped with a two-zone, which allows the items to be divided into two different compartments. The 10L and 45L compartments both have freezing options and allow more ease of use as it makes the fridge more accessible.
The damping design of the portable refrigerator is very user-friendly. With its overall smooth lines and multi-functional non-slip foundation, the lateral movement is greatly reduced. It also plays a role since the total height is not changed. If your car goes uphill at a 30-degree inclination slope, the 12-volt freezer will still work well. It is simple to handle the camping fridge with the ergonomically sound handle design, decreasing the amount of torso tilt necessary and protecting the lumbar spine.
Product Specs:
- Capacity: 35L
- Voltage: 12V
- Wattage: 45W
Pros:
- Dual Storage area and powerful capacity
- Smart battery protection
- LCD touch panel and smart control
Cons:
- Insulation can be improved
- Lower capacity
7. AstroAI 12 Volt Refrigerator 58 Quart
Many portable fridge models are available today, each from a unique manufacturer and design. There is so much to choose from that it’s difficult to decide. After a while, they all start to resemble one other. The great news is that you’re not alone if you’ve been in this position. Customers are often perplexed by the vast array of options while shopping online. During times like these, you need solid and reliable information that will assist you in making your selections. That is our goal for all our readers, young and seasoned alike.
The AstroAI portable fridge joins the extensive range of portable fridges today. It is relatively new. Even though it came late to the party, it’s gained a cult following. To put it another way, it’s a unique blend of practicality, ease, and elegance all in one package. At first look, this portable refrigerator’s characteristics may seem identical to those of others on the market. There are several reasons to believe that AstroAI’s Portable refrigerator has a leg up on its competitors.
It wasn’t until 2016 that even the firm joined in on the action. However, it has found a niche in the household appliance and automobile industries. It’s hard to find a better product from AstroAI than the AstroAI portable fridge.
Product Specs:
- Voltage: 12V
- Capacity: 35L
- Weight: 37 lbs
Pros:
- Efficient energy consumption
- Quiet technology
- 3-year warranty
Cons:
- Needs pre-refrigeration
- The fan in the back needs cleaning
8. AstroAI Portable Freezer 12 Volt Car Refrigerator 16 Quart
Customers are often confused by the plethora of choices accessible to them when making online purchases. You need strong and dependable information to help you make your decisions in these situations. We want to aid all of our readers in this regard, new and old.
The AstroAI 16 Quart has a large capacity of 15L, which makes it suitable to be used as a fridge and a refrigerator depending on the need. This refrigerator is an ideal gift for Christmas as it happens to be of great use in picnics, barbecues, camping, and traveling.
The powerful compressor installed in the 16 Quart allows it to reach the advertised -4 degrees Fahrenheit temperature in under 30 minutes. Its battery protection feature ensures your car battery isn’t drained when powering it. Overall, it is a great refrigerator and an amazing option for outdoor enthusiasts.
Product Specs:
- Voltage: 12V
- Capacity: 15L
- Weight: 22 lbs
Pros:
- Lower Power Draw
- Large Capacity
- Strong spring-loaded handles
- Shockproof for mobile operation
Cons:
- The controls are placed at the rear
9. Setpower TC35 37 Quarts Portable Freezer Fridge
The Set Power Portable Fridge is an excellent, low-cost alternative to a top-of-the-range camping fridge. You can easily move it around thanks to the wheels on its bottom. It’s a tough fridge that can handle off-road driving shocks and turbulence.
Additionally, you may choose one of three power settings to save your car battery from being overworked. You may get an AC cable if you wish to use the fridge at home. A 2-year compressor warranty is included with the Set Power Mobile Fridge to be confident in your purchase.
Product Specs:
- Capacity: 40 liters
- Lowest Temp: -4°F
- Power Source: 12V DC
Pros:
- The cord provided is extra-long.
- Protects car battery
- 2-year compressor warranty.
Cons:
- It doesn’t contain a DC cord.
- The temperature gauge may not always be accurate
- Efficiency drops at cooler temperatures.
10. CROWNFUL Mini Fridge, 4 Liter/6 Can Portable Cooler
Almost all households keep their perishable goods in a single central refrigerator. Additional refrigerators are not uncommon in some households; they may be used to keep specialized products or extra food that doesn’t fit in the main fridge.
Food, beverages, beer, munchies, breast milk, makeup, and skincare may be stored inside the CROWNFUL Compact Fridge Mobile Cooler and Warmer. You may use it as the main refrigerator if you live in a studio, dorm room, bedroom, or office. This can also be utilized in a vehicle and an office setting.
One of the most popular options is the CROWNFUL Mini Refrigerator Mobile Cooler, which can be powered by either ordinary home current or direct current (DC) supplied from a car engine. An exceptionally energy-efficient cooling system keeps the freezer at a constant temperature.
Product Specs:
- Capacity: 4 liters
- Lowest Temp: -4°F
- Power Source: 120V
Pros:
- Easy to carry anywhere.
- Ease of use and store.
- Good energy efficiency.
- It generates low noise.
Cons:
- Not functional with a 24V outlet.
11. BODEGA 12 Volt Car Refrigerator 37 Quart
The Bodega mobile car fridge 12v has a level H, M, and L protection system. During startup and shutdown, the system might be set to a different voltage than usual. When turned down, a strong compressor can bring an empty portable refrigerator down to 0 degrees Fahrenheit in about fifteen minutes. The wireless control system for an RV fridge was developed. Keep whatever you’re packing as cold as possible when you’re not using power. Pre-cooling your refrigerator before a vacation is a good idea if you need to store lots of frozen food. Keep the food fresh by storing it in this way.
Additionally, it has two zones, each of which may be individually managed. Each zone has a capacity of 18 liters (19 quarts) = 36 liters (38 quarts). You may remove the center plate if you want one zone to exist.
More than 41 cola cans or 11 water bottles fit comfortably in this roomy RV refrigerator’s storage space. Only you can decide whether to start with the fridge or the freezer for food storage. Our automobile portable refrigerator may be controlled through an app or manually. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the Bodega since it’s a smart refrigerator that’s simple to use.
Product Specs:
- Capacity: 36L
- Voltage: 12V
- Wattage: 60W
Pros:
- Energy-saving and low consumption
- Dual Zone and App control
- Anti-shaking and Shockproof
Cons:
- It needs pre-cooling in the summers
- Lower capacity
12. JoyTutus 12 Volt Refrigerator, 42 Quart
The JoyTutus 42 Quart portable refrigerator is a super quiet, fast, cooling refrigerator which lives up to its name and provides actual Joy to its customers once used at full capacity. The refrigerator can be adjusted anywhere between -4 to 50 Fahrenheit to be used according to your needs.
The two zones in the 42QT enable you to enjoy your chilled drinks while it prevents your meat from rotting in the heat. Furthermore, the 42QT is very light on electricity consumption, using under 1kWh per day and allowing you to adjust the consumption for energy saving. The refrigerator also can lean up to 45 degrees, making it unsusceptible to any bumps and hills that may shake a regular refrigerator.
Product Specs:
- Capacity: 18L
- Voltage: 12V
- Wattage: 60W
Pros:
- Energy-saving and low consumption
- Fast Freeze and battery protection
- Low Noise
Cons:
- It needs pre-cooling in the summers
- The design can be improved
13. SetPower FC12 13.5 Quarts Portable Freezer Fridge 12V Cooler
The Set Power Portable Fridge is an excellent, low-cost alternative to a top-of-the-range camping fridge. You can easily move it around thanks to the wheels on the bottom of it. It’s a tough fridge that can handle off-road driving shocks and turbulence.
Additionally, you may choose one of three power settings to save your car battery from being overworked. You may get an AC cable if you wish to use the fridge at home. A 2-year compressor warranty is included with the Set Power Mobile Fridge to be confident in your purchase.
This Set power camp fridge is an excellent choice if you’re on a tight budget. Keep your food chilled with a 12V DC cord and an AC adaptor with regular connectors when camping. Power is needed for this fridge. However, it may be acquired using your solar energy unit or campsite electrical outlets.
MAX or ECO mode may be used to cool down your vehicle, and the ECO option is great when you’re off the main road. The Set power chiller can withstand shocks and tilted usage, ensuring that your food remains fresh while you’re on the road.
Product Specs:
- Capacity: 12L
- Wattage: 35W
- Power Source: 12V
Pros:
- Large Capacity
- Functional design
- 2-year compressor guarantee (1-year guarantee for other parts)
Cons:
- It doesn’t contain a DC cord.
- The temperature gauge may not always be accurate
- Efficiency drops at cooler temperatures.
14. KEED BING Portable Refrigerator, 42 Quart Car Refrigerator freezer
The KEED BING Refrigerator is the most efficient energy-saving refrigerator on the market, given its capacity of 40 liters. The refrigerator can almost be branded as a smart device due to its futuristic design and advanced LCD display, allowing you to set your desired temperature from anywhere between easily -4°F to 68°F with its electronic control panel aptly depicts the internal temperature. The BING 42QT also comes with two modes that can be operated, the MAX and ECO modes which differ in terms of cooling degrees and energy consumption.
The KEED BING 42 Quart refrigerator is an amazing device that can aid you in your outdoor adventures and indoor activities as the fridge owns two power cords, a 12/24 DC one and a 110 V AC cord that can be used to power it indoors. The car refrigerator freezes well and lasts for a long time thanks to the embossed aluminum inside and the sturdy metal embossing outside. Two heavy-duty retractable handles assist you in effortlessly operating the mobile fridge. A wire basket and a temperature probe may be removed from the RV refrigerator for easy cleaning.
Product Specs:
- Capacity: 40L
- Wattage: 35W
- Power Source: 12V
Pros:
- Efficient energy consumption
- Quiet technology
Cons:
- Needs pre-refrigeration
- The fan in the back needs cleaning
What Is a Portable Refrigerator?
A portable refrigerator is a small mobile cooling system used to ice drinks. Most portable fridges come with 12V plugins that run on an electrical system. With a portable refrigerator, you can also ice your food to keep them fresh, and preserve ice cubes and other perishable items. Portable refrigerators are more expensive than coolers of the same size because they lack more power.
This is because they consume less power and can be used indoors and outdoors. You can use yours for camping trips or host friends and families at picnics. Even if you don’t have a direct connection to the power grid, you can comfortably power the fridge with a solar inverter or a generator set. Using generators will require a 12V plugin adapter. Once you have one, you are good to go. Also, note that portable refrigerators come in different shapes and sizes, with some able to hold as many as 100 cans.
How Does a Portable Refrigerator Work?
A portable refrigerator works with a combination of different components. Three vital components are the compressor, tubing, and refrigerants, also called Freon. The refrigerant is a special gas that makes freezing possible. When at room temperature, the refrigerant is nothing but gas, but when the temperature drops, it becomes liquid. Besides the effect changes in temperature have on the gas, pressure also affects it.
The compressor is what pressurizes the refrigerant and causes it to turn to gas before it heats up. Immediately as the gas heats up, it transforms into liquid form. This is why sometimes, when you put your hands inside a fridge, you feel some warm spots. This phenomenon is nothing strange; it is simply the freon being transformed into gas.
After the gas turns into the liquid, it moves through a set of tunes and pipes that run on the refrigerator’s walls, but it doesn’t remain liquid for too long. Passage through the tubing cools into ambient temperature, which causes a change back into a gas state, leading to sucking out of warmth. So while it may seem that the refrigerator is cooling down, the fact is that it is extinguishing heat. This is what happens with refrigeration systems and air conditioners that also use the same freon gas.
Although it requires a lot of energy to do this, the good news is that portable versions use less energy, especially if it is energy-star rated. However, you cannot power it with a car battery, only a direct power grid, a solar inverter, or a generator.
What Are the Benefits of Portable Refrigerators?
Buying a portable refrigerator for indoor and outdoor use has certain benefits you should be aware of. Here they are.
Power Consumption
You should first know that portable refrigerators do not consume too much power. While it is true that the average refrigerator consumes significant power to freeze your food and drinks, you should expect less power consumption if you use a portable refrigerator. Portable units will not raise your energy bills because they are power efficient.
You may even find one that uses even less than 100 watts which is white low compared to what other systems use. Some models hold temperature in and remain cold for 24 hours after power is cut out. So you don’t have to keep it on for 24 hours since you can still access cold food and drinks for a significant period.
Portability and Convenience
Another benefit of a portable refrigerator is in the area of convenience. An average portable fridge can fit into your car trunk for long trips. They do not consume too much space but can hold a significant volume of drinks. Furthermore, you can use them in outdoor environments like camping trips, BBQ parties, and picnics. The portability also makes it a worthy device for extremely tight interior spaces.
Durable
Durability is synonymous with portable refrigerators. They may appear delicate at first glance, but they are not. Rather, they are made of hard plastic but use foams to insulate temperature. Portable refrigerators are built to last from the architectural build to the component parts.
Manufacturers know they will likely be moved around from place to place, so they ensure that all the parts are perfectly fitted and in order. Moreover, they don’t defrost and lead to flooding of your space which is great news if you choose to use yours indoors. If you use it well, your portable refrigerator can last for as long as 5-7 years.
Versatile
You can find multiple uses for your portable refrigerator. It is valuable for indoor and outdoor uses. From camping to road trips, mobile shops to market stalls, or even a kitchen or bedside fridge, you can use it for different purposes but still enjoy real-time value. Its compact size and quick freeze make it the ideal cooling device for emergencies and small spaces.
Freshness
Enjoy fresh foods for as long as possible with a portable refrigerator anywhere, anytime. You can freeze your soup by increasing the output or keep your baby food fresh by toning down the output using the regulator. And the advantage of this is the temperature will remain cool for several hours even if the power goes out as long as you don’t open it too often. Rather than head to the convenience store or restaurant to get fresh food items or raise your energy bill by using a larger fridge, you can make do with a portable refrigerator.
How to Choose a Portable Refrigerator?
So you have decided to buy a portable refrigerator for your road trips but don’t know what to look out for? This section will highlight what you need to consider before making a final purchase decision.
Identify The Type Of Fridge You Need?
The first thing you need to do is decide on the type of fridge you need. Questions to ask yourself include
- What type of fridge do you need?
- How long will you be on the road for (Outdoor trips)
- How much food items or drinks do you want to store at a time?
These are vital questions to ask yourself. Note that portable fridges are sized based on liters while others are sized in cans. A small unit can accommodate between 14-35 liters, enough to keep a small amount of food and drinks for one person. You should expect to keep between 36-50 liters of food and drinks for two people for medium sizes.
50 liter models are great for family picnics during the weekend for a family of 5. Then we have the extra large portable fridges that can accommodate between 51-80 liters if you are big on space because you take long trips for several days; this is the version you should be looking to buy.
Do You Need A Freezer Or A Fridge?
The next question is whether you need a freezer or a fridge? If you want your drinks frozen for a few hours so they stay cold for a long time, you need a freezer, but if freshness is all you are after, a fridge will suffice. However, some models can do both effectively since they are freezers and fridges. They mostly have two compartments, one operating as a fridge and the other ad a freezer. Having a dual cooling zone gives you better cooling options.
Decide On a 2-Way or 3-Way option
Another thing to consider is whether you want a 2-way or 3-way fridge. A two-way portable fridge uses a compressor whole a three way version uses absorption. Both refer to the two types of energy required to function, but Two-way versions use compressor technology with minimal power.
Three-way versions use electric power, including gas, for a more streamlined cooling. If you are going to be outdoors for several days at a time, this is the one to go for. Moreover, they make less noise and stay cool for a significant period.
Consider Space
Before you pay for the fridge, consider where you wish to install it. If you want to install it in your kitchen or bedroom, make sure you have the space for it before you buy it. Even if you need one for outdoor trips, remember that you still have to store it somewhere when not in use. So do well to plan for the space ahead of time. Ensure you measure the height, depth, and width. If the model has drawers, ensure enough space to open them comfortably.
Style and Configuration
The style and configuration also matter as this will determine how you organize and store your food. Do you want a sleek side fringe or a French door version? There are classic too-to-bottom options and a specialized under-counter model so feel free to make your choice.
Weather Resistant
The best portable refrigerators have weather-resistant features that can withstand dust, moisture, and mud. If you will be using the fridge outside more often than not, this is a feature you should take seriously. Weather resistance means that the environment will not impact performance, and it will not suffer from wear and tear. Very good models have corrosive-resistant exteriors.
Durability
Not only would you want a portable refrigerator that will last, but you also want one that is resistant to shocks and bumps. We had to highlight this point separately because portable fridges designed for outdoor use have a certain feature that indoor models do not have. The model you buy should have strong hinges, casings, and durable construction.
Mounting Hardware
The portable fridge you intend to buy should come with mounting hardware. The hardware will ensure that the fridge stands properly, is easy to move, and prevents accidents. Furthermore, the hardware will ensure that the fridge will run at peak performance.
Battery Protection
Some portable refrigerators have battery technology that allows them to run on car and boat batteries. You should consider a model with this feature for long road trips to prevent a voltage surge from damaging it.
Mod Cons
Wireless connectivity and a USB port for charging your phone add more value to the fridge long-term. If it can be operated using a Wifi app, the better.
Energy Star Ratings
Although the average portable refrigerator does not consume too much power, a larger version will still affect your energy bills if you keep it for a long time. That is why looking for a fridge with energy star ratings will be in your best interest. Energy Star-rated fridges are energy efficient and consume less power than models that don’t have this rating. They are eco-friendly and pose no risk to the environment or users.
Warranty
Never buy a portable refrigerator that doesn’t come with a manufacturer’s warranty. This is because should a faulty fridge be delivered to you, there is nothing you can do about it since you can’t demand a replacement or a refund. Notable brands issue warranty cover on their products because they know they are of good quality, and such warranties protect the buyer. So before you buy that fridge, read the fine print. A good portable refrigerator should have at least 6 months to 1-year warranty cover. Anything below this is not good enough. If you discover the fridge is faulty soon after, you can always ship it to the manufacturer and request a new one.
Portable Refrigerator FAQs
Are portable fridges worth it?
Yes, they are. Portable fridges are economical if you have a small budget and want to keep maintenance costs quite low. They don’t consume too much energy and only occupy limited space in your home. Besides, you can take them on camping trips if you want. Despite having a small storage compartment, portable fridges can cool food and drinks and big-sized fridges.
How Long Will A Portable Refrigerator Last?
A good portable refrigerator can last for o to 20 years. The factors that determine shelf life include the quality of the build materials and maintenance. Using more than one energy source is another indicator that it is a durable cooling device.
What Type Of Portable Fridge Is Best For Camping?
The best type of portable fridge for camping is a 12-volt refrigerator. 12-volt models don’t draw as much power as higher-volt refrigerators, and they can withstand harsh climates. If you spend several days or weeks outside your home, a 12v fridge will come in handy. Once the interior is frozen, it can maintain a cold temperature for several hours even if the power is disconnected.
Can a 12V Fridge Drain The Battery Of My Car?
Yes, it will but not immediately. A full car battery can power a 12v fridge for 40 minutes to 3 hours before the power drains. That is enough time to cool your food and drinks if the fridge works perfectly.
Can a Car Battery Run a Portable Fridge?
Yes, a car battery can run a Portable fridge but not for very long. It is not advisable to power a portable fridge with a car battery, especially when you are out on the road, lest it drains the power out and you have no means to start your vehicle. Powering a portable fridge with a car battery should only be done if you have no other choice because of the risks involved.
The battery may end up frying the fridge’s compressor or causing a total discharge of the battery and spoiling it. It is best to only use it as a last resort and not a viable option.
Can I Use a Portable Fridge at Home?
Yes, you can use a portable fridge at home. Many homeowners prefer to use them in their bedrooms or mini bars to store drinks and snacks. Here are some of the benefits of using a portable fridge at home.
Low power consumption: A portable fridge will not increase your energy bill much, even if you leave it on round the clock. Unlike bigger models, it is power efficient, and most portable fridges consume only 100 watts or less. Moreover, they can hold their temperature for 24 more hours even when there is a power outage, so you don’t have to keep them on all the time to save energy.
Compact and convenient
Portable refrigerators are compact. They don’t take up too much space in the house, and you can store various items inside. You can even ice cones on them to cool your drinks if you don’t want to overload the compartment with cans and bottles. This is the ideal option for homes with minimal space.
Durable
A portable fridge is more durable than you think. Despite the small size, they are known to last for years, especially when handled properly. Unlike portable coolers, which develop molds and deteriorate, a portable fridge will maintain its shape and appearance as long as you clean the decks regularly.
You should also know that portable fridges are less likely to flood your floors with water from melted ice. To extend the shelflife, consider maintaining the right temperature every time with the regulator settings.
Versatile
You can store food and drink items of all kinds. And they are as good outdoors as they are good indoors. Even though you bought it for your home, you can still take it out for road trips. If you have an RV, a portable fridge will fit right into it. This cooling device can work any day, any time, and anywhere.
What’s the Difference Between a Portable Cooler And a Portable Fridge?
Many people confuse portable coolers with portable fridges. Although they are both cooling devices, they are different in how they work.
A portable cooler is a cooking box, container, or device that keeps its content cool. It has an insulated compartment for cooling drinks. The idea behind its design is to keep content cool and nothing more. This is why they are often called drink coolers.
A portable fridge, on the other hand, has a cooling system that runs on a 12v electrical engine. It can do all that a portable cooler can and more; portable fridges freeze food and drinks.
So what’s the difference?
A portable cooler needs ice to maintain temperature, but a portable fridge needs electricity to maintain temperature. Portable coolers are lightweight and ideal for short trips like fishing and picnics, but a portable refrigerator is heavier and best suited for camping and road trips that may last for days or weeks.
A portable cooler is far cheaper than portable fridges; some cost about half the price of portable fridges or less.
The ideal one to buy should depend on what you want to use the device for. If you want a device that can freeze your food and drinks and stay cold for a whole day, you should buy a portable refrigerator; however, if you want something just to keep items cool, a portable cooler is what you need.
Portable Refrigerator Vs. Normal Refrigerator
A portable refrigerator and a normal refrigerator are the same; the only difference is their size and pier requirement. Most portable fridges use 12v electrical systems while normal fridges range from 50v and higher. There are even 200v normal fridges.
Secondly, normal fridges are far bigger and can accommodate more items than portable fridges. They can also maintain temperature for days if there is a power outage and you keep it closed. Their size also means that they require significant installation space. Portable fridges only require minimal space because of their petite size.
If you want a fridge, they can keep your food items cold for longer; you should go for a normal fridge if you have space. But we recommend a portable fridge if you don’t have enough space in your home or if you would like a cooling device for your road trips.
Portable Refrigerator vs. Beverage Fridge
Before buying a portable refrigerator or a beverage fridge, you need to know the difference.
Storage capacity: Beverage fridge, or beverage center as commonly called, is designed for one goal alone; to keep drinks cold. It has an internal shelve layout that maximizes space for bottles, boxes, and cans. If you see cooling devices with storage measured in can capacity rather than cubic feet, just know that it is a beverage fridge. On the other hand, a portable refrigerator is designed to freeze food and drinks, not just keep them cold. In terms of storage space, the average beverage fridge has more space than the average portable refrigerator.
Purpose: Portable refrigerators are solely for small spaces like bedrooms, guestrooms, or spaces with limited space. They serve the same purpose as a regular refrigerator, the difference being their small size. Beverage fridges are meant to cool drinks solely, and space maximization is not a goal.
Internal Temperature: The internal temperature of a beverage temperature is different. It can cool drinks with temperatures as low as 4 degrees Celsius, but a portable refrigerator needs to drop a little lower than that to freeze your food and drinks. However, they can also be set at 4 degrees Celsius for cooling alone. But portable refrigerators do a better job of holding temperature for much longer if there is a power cut.
While a portable refrigerator has a freezer compartment, a beverage fridge does not. So decide what you want. If you want to use it for drinks, don’t buy a portable refrigerator; go for a beverage fridge. But for longer cooling and freezing capacity, a portable refrigerator is ideal.
Portable Refrigerator Vs. Wine Fridge
The major difference between the two is their temperature range. A portable refrigerator has a cooling range of 35°-42° Fahrenheit, while a wine fridge has a range of 45° – 65° Fahrenheit. As you can see, the range of a portable refrigerator will likely freeze your wine, not hit cooling it, and no one likes their wines frozen.
If you want a cooling device solely for your wines, buy a wine fridge. It has more space for wine bottles and will keep your wines at a perfect temperature. But a portable refrigerator will suffice for other items and general food storage.
Conclusion
If you like to go camping or boating, chances are you’ve been in a position when having a portable fridge would have been useful. The ice cubes in these portable refrigerator freezers may be used to spice up your beverages and help maintain your food fresh while you’re out in the great outdoors. There are a wide variety of portable fridges and freezers to choose from. Before purchasing a freezer, there are several things to keep in mind. These factors include the number of people who will use it, how long it will be used, and how easily it can be transported.
With the comprehensive and in-depth review, we’ve provided above, choosing the best portable refrigerator should now be an easy decision to make. But if we were to crown the best overall refrigerator available on the market, it would be the Alpicool C15 Portable Refrigerator 16 Quart for its outstanding features. However, the AstroAI Portable Freezer 12 Volt Car Refrigerator 16 Quart is a close second and contains similar features that ensure a perfect all-rounded portable refrigerator for you.
Rate This Article
