If you’re like me, you love spending time outdoors camping, fishing, or just taking a leisurely drive. But when the day is done and it’s time to head back home, there’s nothing worse than getting in your hot car and feeling all of the heat radiating off of it. A car refrigerator can be a real lifesaver in those situations! Not only can it keep your food cold on long road trips, but it can also help to cool down your car on hot days. Keep reading for our picks for the best car refrigerator on the market today!
Benefits of a Car Refrigerator
If you’re on the fence about whether or not you need a car refrigerator, here are some of the benefits that might convince you:
- Keeps Food Cold on Road Trips
Whether you’re on a long road trip or just going to the grocery store, a car refrigerator can keep your food cold and fresh. This is especially helpful if you have children who like to snack in the car.
- Models of Different Types and Sizes
You can choose the type of refrigerator depending on your needs – quick cooling, freezing, operation without electricity, the ability to keep cold for several hours or more. In addition, models of various sizes are offered, and even with a separate freezer.
- Helps to Cool Down Your Car on Hot Days
If you live in a hot climate, a car refrigerator can help to cool down your car on hot days. This can be really helpful if you have to commute to work or take your kids to school in the morning.
- Saves Money on Groceries
If you have a car refrigerator, you don’t have to waste money on buying cold drinks and snacks from the convenience store. You can just pack them in your fridge and take them with you wherever you go!
Types of Car Refrigerators
All refrigerators that can be put into cars are designed to provide low temperature on the road, a requirement for long-term storage of food and beverages. There are a few different types of car refrigerators on the market. Here’s a breakdown of the different types:
- Compressor automobile refrigerators
The most powerful and productive models can quickly cool down to sub-zero temperatures, and many compressor automobile refrigerators offer cooling down to °C-20 °C. Cooling is provided by the presence of powerful motor-compressor, refrigerant and evaporator.
- Thermoelectric auto-refrigerators
This is easy in the design of the refrigerator, where the current passes through the semiconductor plates on the walls of the container. It can be cooled to 18-20 degrees Celsius below the ambient temperature. As a rule, the size is medium, with a volume of more than 50-60 liters. They usually run on the 12V lights of the ship.
- Automotive (gas) absorption refrigerators
This type of refrigerator maintains the best temperature and is recommended for long trips with long stops in the car, camping, and wilderness. They lower the temperature inside by 30 degrees Celsius. Ammonia is used as a refrigerant in such equipment, and its circulation occurs due to gas or electric heating
Best Car Refrigerator: FAQs
How do I install a car refrigerator?
Such a refrigerator can be easily placed in the trunk of your car, connected to a 12 or 24 volt car socket and cools food and drinks. Some car refrigerators also work from a 220 volt network, this allows you to turn on the car refrigerator in the home outlet and cool the interior to the desired temperature before leaving.
Can I use my car refrigerator while the car is turned off?
Yes, most car refrigerators can be used while the car is turned off. However, some models require that the car be running in order to power the fridge.
My car refrigerator is making a lot of noise. What should I do?
If your car refrigerator is making a lot of noise, it might be defective and you should return it to the store. Make sure to read the reviews before you buy so you know what to expect from the product.
What should I do if my car refrigerator runs out of power?
If your car refrigerator runs out of power, you can either plug it into a power outlet or run it on battery power. Some models come with an AC adapter, while others come with a battery pack.
Can I use my car refrigerator to store food?
Yes, most car refrigerators can be used to store food. However, you should always consult the manufacturer’s instructions to make sure that your particular model is food-safe.
Main Features While Choosing the Best Car Refrigerator
There are a few main features to look for while choosing the best car refrigerator:
| 1. Type | The first thing you need to decide is what type of refrigerator you want. Chest freezer, compact refrigerator, or 12-volt refrigerator? |
| 2. Size and Capacity | Next, you need to decide how much storage space you need. Car refrigerators come in different sizes, so make sure to pick one that’s right for your needs. |
| 3. Power Supply | Another thing to consider is the power supply. Some car refrigerators plug into the car’s cigarette lighter, while others run on battery power. Make sure to pick one that fits your needs. |
| 4. Ease of Use | Finally, you need to consider how easy the refrigerator is to use. Some models have complicated controls, while others are very user-friendly. Choose the one that’s best for you. |
| 5. Compartments | When choosing a car refrigerator, you also need to decide which type of compartments you need. Most models have either a single or double compartment. Some models even have a built-in freezer. Choose the model that’s best for your needs. |
| 6. Temperature Range | Another important thing to consider is the temperature range. All car refrigerators have a minimum and maximum temperature, so make sure to choose one that’s right for your needs. |
| 7. Energy Efficiency and Compressor | One of the most important things to consider when choosing a car refrigerator is its energy efficiency. You don’t want to end up with a refrigerator that uses a lot of energy and costs a lot of money to run. The compressor is also an important factor to consider. Some compressors are louder than others, so make sure to choose one that’s right for you. |
| 8. Weight and Portability | You need to consider the weight and portability of the refrigerator. Some models are very heavy and difficult to move, while others are lightweight and easy to transport. Choose the model that’s best for you. |
| 9. Cover Opening Direction | You also need to decide which direction the cover opens. Most car refrigerators open from the top, but a few models open from the side. Make sure to choose the one that’s best for you. |
| 10. Extra Features | Finally, you might want to consider some of the extra features offered by different models. Some models come with a built-in battery, while others come with an AC adapter. Some models even have a USB port for charging devices. Choose the model that’s best for you. By considering these factors, you can choose the best car refrigerator for your needs. |
Best Car Refrigerator: Comparison Table & Main Options
Last update on 2022-02-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
1. Alpicool C20 Portable Refrigerator – Car Battery Protection
- ❄ STORAGE SPACE:21 Quart(20 Liter) capacity ,fits 25 cans of Cola.
- ❄ FREEZES WITHOUT ICE: -4°F(-20°C) deep chilling down performance ,can be a fridge or freezer. Run great...
- ❄ CAR BATTERY PROTECTION:With temperature memory function and 3 different levels for battery protection:...
Last update on 2022-02-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Alpicool C20 Specifications
| Product Dimensions | 23.54 x 12.6 x 12.6 inches |
| Item Weight | 19.8 pounds |
| Capacity | 21 Quart(20 Liter) capacity, fits 25 cans of Cola |
| Wattage | 45 watts |
| Cooling Method | Compressor |
| Inverter Type | Has Inverter |
| Lock Type | Key |
| Temperature Range | -4°F(-20°C) deep chilling down performance ,can be a fridge or freezer |
| Car Battery Protection | Temperature memory function and 3 different levels for battery protection: Low, Med and High to protect your vehicle battery without run down |
Car Battery Protection
Keep your food and drinks cold on the go with the Alpicool C20 Portable Refrigerator! This fridge has a temperature memory function and three different levels of battery protection to keep your vehicle battery from running down. Plus, it’s compact and easy to transport, so you can take your cold treats wherever you go!
Reliable Sealing Property
The Alpicool C20 Portable Refrigerator provides reliable cooling performance during your journey. The thick and high-density foam insulation ensures that your food remains cold, while the reliable sealing property construction prevents any unwanted temperature fluctuations.
Overall
the Alpicool C20 Portable Refrigerator is a great choice for anyone who wants a durable, reliable, and portable fridge! Check price at Walmart.com, Sears.com.
Video: Alpicool C20 Portable Refrigerator Mini Fridge-Review
2. ICECO JP40 Portable Refrigerator Fridge Freezer – Easy-to-Operate
- ※ 【FREE PARTS】- Insulated Protective Cover & 12 Feet-Long Extend DC Power Cable.
- ※ 【MAX & ECO MODE】- This function allows the compressor speed to be slowed down to increase operational...
- ※ 【NO ICE NEEDED】- Adjustable Temperature From -7℉～50℉(-22℃～+10℃). How Danfoss compressor...
Last update on 2022-02-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
ICECO JP40 Specifications
| Product Dimensions | 17.5 x 13.8 x 23 inches |
| Item Weight | 38.8 pounds |
| Capacity | 40 Liters |
| Noise Level | 43 dB |
| Voltage | 12 Volts |
| Certification | ETL |
| Lock Type | Key |
| Temperature Range | Adjustable Temperature From -7℉～50℉(-22℃～+10℃) |
| Cooling Method | Compressor |
| Inverter Type | Has Inverter |
| Refrigerant | R-513A |
| Warranty | 5 Years warranty on the compressor and 1 Year warranty on all other parts. Local after-sales service. |
High Quality
This high-quality ICECO JP40 Portable Refrigerator Fridge Freezer is perfect for keeping your food and drinks cold on the go. Its German SECOP compressor ensures efficient cooling, while the ETL Certificate guarantees its safety. And with Global Product Insurance, you can rest assured that your investment is protected.
Max and ECO Mode
The ICECO JP40 refrigerator freezer is the perfect solution for keeping your food and drinks cold on the go. This handy fridge freezer has both ECO and MAX modes to optimize performance, and it comes with a smart LCD display that makes it easy to use.
Overall
the ICECO JP40 Portable Refrigerator Fridge Freezer is a great choice for anyone who wants a reliable and portable fridge freezer! Check price at Walmart.com, Appliancesconnection.com.
Video: ICECO JP30 Portable Refrigerator Review
3. Whynter FM-85G 85 Quart Portable Fridge – Premium Quality
- 85 Quarts or 120 cans (12FL oz) capacity; Adjustable temperature range: -8°F to 50°F; LED temperature...
- Car, RV and home use; Operates as a refrigerator or freezer; work with 12/24V DC and 110V AC power; Voltage...
- 8-feet AC power cord and 10-feet DC power cord; Two removable wire baskets; Insulated lid and walls; ETL...
Last update on 2022-02-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Whynter FM-85G Specifications
| Product Dimensions | 28.1″ W x 18.25″ L x 23.5″ H |
| Item Weight | 71 pounds |
| Capacity | 2.83 Cubic Feet/71 Liters/85 Quarts/120 Cans Capacity |
| Zone Type | Single – Refrigerator or Freezer |
| Temperature Range | -8°F to 50°F |
| Housing Material | Tough and solid outer casing |
| Accessories / Power Cords | Two removable wire baskets / 8′ AC power cord and 10′ DC power cord |
| Max Power Consumption (AC) | AC (110V/60Hz – 80W / 1.0A) |
| Max Power Consumption (DC) | DC (12V/24V – 5.5A/2.75A Car Lighter Socket) |
| Noise Level | 45.66 dBA |
| Annual Energy Consumption | 700.8 Kilowatt Hours Per Year |
| Special Features | “Fast Freeze” mode. Two separately controlled temperature zones |
The Whynter FM-85G 85 Quart Portable Fridge (official website) is the perfect way to keep your food and drinks cold while on the go! This fridge has a storage capacity of 85 quarts, which is enough to store up to 84 cans of cola. The FM-85G also features a deep-chilling function that can cool items down to -4°F/-20°C.
AC/DC Adapter
The Whynter FM-85G 85 Quart Portable Fridge comes with both an AC adapter and a DC adapter, so you can use it with whatever type of vehicle you have. It also has a USB port for charging devices, so you can keep your phone or laptop powered up while you’re on the road.
Car, RV, and Home Use
The Whynter FM-85G 85 Quart Portable Fridge is the perfect way to keep your food and drinks cold while on the go. This fridge is designed for use in cars, RVs, and homes, so you can use it wherever you need it.
Overall
the Whynter FM-85G 85 Quart Portable Fridge is a great choice for anyone who wants a reliable and versatile fridge! Check price at Walmart.com, Homedepot.com, Sears.com.
Video: Whynter FM 85G 85 Quart Portable Fridge Review
4. F40C4TMP Portable Refrigerator – Superior Reliability
- 【Keep Ice Cream Frozen】With a powerful compressor, the 12 volt refrigerator in an empty can cool down to...
- 【Proven Magnetic Door】 Compared with the lid that needs to be pressed, the magnetic door of the F40C4TMP...
- 【Consumes 1 kWh Per Day】The rated power of the 12V truck refrigerator in MAX mode is 45W, which consumes...
Last update on 2022-03-01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
F40C4TMP Specifications
| Product Dimensions | L22.4” x W12.6” x H11.3” |
| Item Weight | 26.6 pounds |
| Capacity | 20 Quart |
| Power | 45W |
| Temperature Range | -7.6℉~50℉ |
| Connection | 12V/24V DC ~ 100V/240V AC |
| Accessories / Power Cords | Two removable wire baskets / 8′ AC power cord and 10′ DC power cord |
| Max Power Consumption (AC) | AC (110V/60Hz – 80W / 1.0A) |
| Max Power Consumption (DC) | DC (12V/24V – 5.5A/2.75A Car Lighter Socket) |
| Noise Level | 45 dBA |
| Two Cooling Modes | MAX(fast cooling) and ECO(energy saving) |
| Proven Magnetic Door | Helps reduce energy consumption |
Proven Magnetic Door
The F40C4TMP 12-volt portable refrigerator (official website) is perfect for long road trips and camping adventures! The magnetic door ensures a tight seal, preventing any cold air from escaping. Plus, the sleek design makes it a stylish addition to your travel gear.
Good Choice for Camping
This is the perfect fridge for anyone who loves spending time outdoors! Whether you’re camping, road-tripping, or boating, this little fridge can come with you wherever you go. It’s small and lightweight enough to fit in tight spaces, but it’s still got a whopping 20 quarts of space inside. It plugs into your car’s 12V outlet so you don’t have to worry about finding an AC outlet while on the go.
Overall
The F40C4TMP Portable Refrigerator is a great choice for anyone who wants a reliable and portable fridge! Check price at Walmart.com.
Video: F40C4TMP Portable Refrigerator 20 Quart 12 Volt Freezer Review
5. Euhomy 12 Volt Refrigerator – Powerful Capacity
- DUAL STORAGE AREA&POWERFUL CAPACITY - Euhomy car refrigerator is equipped with two zone. Portable refrigerator...
- HIGH EFFICIENCY&LOW ENERGY CONSUMPTION - Euhomy 12 volt freezer adopts advanced 3D refrigeration technology...
- SMART BATTERY PROTECTION&HOME/CAR DUAL-USE - Euhomy car fridge 12v is equipped with 120/240V AC and 12/24V DC...
Last update on 2022-03-01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Euhomy 12 Volt Refrigerator Specifications
| Product Dimensions | 27.3 x 13.6 x 18 inches |
| Item Weight | 33.9 pounds |
| Capacity | 45L |
| Power | 45 watts |
| Temperature Range | -4℉-68℉(-20℃-20℃) |
| Connection | Is equipped with 120/240V AC and 12/24V DC adapters |
| Certification | UL energy-saving certification |
| Bluetooth Connection | Has a Bluetooth mode, with a mobile app |
| LCD Panel | Yes |
| Noise Level | 40 dBA |
| Two Cooling Modes | MAX(fast cooling) and ECO(energy saving) |
| Warranty | 1-year quality assurance |
High Efficiency and Low Energy Consumption
Keep your food and drinks cold on the go with the Euhomy 12 Volt Refrigerator. This high-efficiency refrigerator features low energy consumption and comes equipped with a powerful compressor for fast cooling. The UL energy-saving certification means that this fridge consumes very low energy, so you can save money on your power bill. Choose between ECO mode for energy-saving or MAX mode for fast cooling.
Smart Battery Protection
Looking for a fridge that can travel with you? Look no further than the Euhomy 12 Volt Refrigerator! This handy little fridge comes equipped with both 120/240V AC and 12/24V DC adapters, so it can be used at home or in the car. The RV refrigerator also provides three battery protection functions, so you don’t have to worry about running out of power while on the road.
Overall
the Euhomy 12 Volt Refrigerator is a great choice for anyone who wants a reliable and versatile fridge! Check price at Walmart.com.
Video: Euhomy Car Refrigerator Review
6. AstroAI Portable Freezer – Functional Design
- LARGE CAPACITY: With 15L large capacity, interior dimension 13.8"(L)x 9.6"(W) x 7.1"(H), it could be a fridge...
- FAST COOLING: With a powerful compressor, the car freezer in an empty can cool up the maximum 95℉within 30...
- BATTERY PROTECTION: With three-levels of battery protection mechanism- Low, Medium, and High, the car fridge...
Last update on 2022-03-01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
AstroAI Specifications
| Product Dimensions | 22.2 x 12.6 x 9.8 inches |
| Item Weight | 22 pounds |
| Capacity | 16 Quarts |
| Freezer Capacity | 15L |
| Annual Energy Consumption | 300 Kilowatt Hours |
| Voltage | 120 Volts |
| Defrost | Automatic |
| Inverter Type | No Inverter |
| Fast Cooling | Can cool up the maximum 95℉ within 30 minutes, and reach the lowest -4℉（-20°C）about an hour |
| Power Supply | 12/24V DC 100/240V AC |
| Features | LED Display, Battery Protection, ECO Mode, Powerful Compressor, Large Capacity, Safety Handle |
Fast Cooling
The AstroAI Portable Freezer is perfect for people on the go! This car freezer can quickly cool down to 95℉within 30 minutes, and reach the lowest temperature of -4℉（-20°C）within an hour. Whether you need to cool down food or drinks fast or want to keep items frozen while traveling, this freezer is up for the challenge! Plus, it features ECO mode for energy saving, so you can use it worry-free.
Functional Design
This nifty little freezer is perfect for keeping your food cold on the go, or for extra storage when you’re short on space! The LED display panel makes it easy to set and check the temperature, while the USB charging port means you can always keep your phone charged up. And with the UL Listed car cigarette lighter extension cord, you can take this freezer anywhere!
Overall
the AstroAI Portable Freezer is a great choice for anyone who wants a reliable and versatile freezer! Check price at Walmart.com.
Video: AstroAI Portable Freezer 12 Volt Car Refrigerator 15L Review
In Conclusion
Having a reliable and functional fridge is a must for anyone who loves spending time outdoors. Whether you’re camping, road-tripping, or boating, make sure to bring one of these great fridges with you! They’ll keep your food and drinks cold and let you enjoy your time outdoors worry-free.
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