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10 Best Portable Refrigerators 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Dometic CFX3 100-Liter Portable Refrigerator and Freezer, Powered by AC/DC or Solar

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,461
Capacity
Power Source
Temperature Range

Most important from
53 reviews

Capacity
Its generous 100-liter capacity is ideal for long journeys, ensuring effective cooling and freezing even in harsh environments.
Power Source
It works well on 120-volt home current, 12-24 volts with a vehicle's cigarette lighter socket, and various lithium battery power stations.
Temperature Range
There is some temperature variation within the interior, with higher temperatures near the upper shelves.
Energy Efficiency
The quality is outstanding and the unit is very efficient with power.
Portability
The CFX3 100 remains a dependable and adaptable mobile refrigerator for any travel arrangement or emergency scenario.
Durability
The Dometic CFX3 100 is an exceptional cooler and freezer that blends durability with superior functionality.

The Dometic CFX3 100-Liter Portable Refrigerator and Freezer offers a substantial 100-liter capacity, making it suitable for extended trips and large storage needs. It can operate using AC, DC, or solar power, providing flexibility for various environments and situations, including off-grid adventures. The device can refrigerate or deep freeze down to –7 °F, thanks to its powerful VMSO3 compressor cooling technology, which eliminates the need for ice and ensures precise temperature control.

Additionally, the product is designed for durability with heavy-duty ExoFrame construction and aluminum alloy handles, ensuring it can withstand tough conditions while remaining relatively lightweight for transport at 65.3 pounds. Energy efficiency is another strong point, with ultra-low power consumption and a built-in 3-stage dynamic battery protection system to avoid draining batteries.

The CFX3 also features modern technology with the ability to control temperatures through the CFX3 app via WiFi or Bluetooth, and a high-resolution color display with soft-touch buttons for ease of use. Potential buyers should consider the product's weight and size against their specific needs for portability and convenience.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,461
Capacity
Power Source
Temperature Range

Most important from
53 reviews

Capacity
Its generous 100-liter capacity is ideal for long journeys, ensuring effective cooling and freezing even in harsh environments.
Power Source
It works well on 120-volt home current, 12-24 volts with a vehicle's cigarette lighter socket, and various lithium battery power stations.
Temperature Range
There is some temperature variation within the interior, with higher temperatures near the upper shelves.
Energy Efficiency
The quality is outstanding and the unit is very efficient with power.
Portability
The CFX3 100 remains a dependable and adaptable mobile refrigerator for any travel arrangement or emergency scenario.
Durability
The Dometic CFX3 100 is an exceptional cooler and freezer that blends durability with superior functionality.
#2

Dometic CFX3 35 Portable Refrigerator and Freezer - 36L - Powered by AC/DC or Solar Portable Refrigerator, Smokey Gray

Rating
9.7
Power Source
Temperature Range
Energy Efficiency

Most important from
582 reviews

Power Source
Versatile power options allow seamless functioning on both AC and DC power sources, enhancing convenience on the road.
Temperature Range
The cooler maintains a consistent internal temperature, effectively preserving already cold or frozen items without frequent fluctuations.
Energy Efficiency
Energy consumption is impressively low for a compressor cooler, typically running between 15 to 25 watts when maintaining cold temperatures.
Portability
The build quality is outstanding, with robust handles that make carrying a heavy, fully loaded cooler manageable for two people.
Durability
Its rugged construction and reliability make it comparable to a 'Toyota' in the electric cooler category, trusted for long-term continuous use.
Noise Level
Whisper-quiet operation ensures the compressor noise is minimal and unobtrusive during use.

The Dometic CFX3 35 is a well-built portable refrigerator and freezer with a 36-liter capacity, suitable for small groups or families on the go. It cools efficiently down to –7 °F, allowing you to keep things frozen without needing ice. It offers versatile power options, working on AC, DC, or solar power, which makes it convenient for camping trips or road travel. Its smart battery protection system helps avoid dead batteries, making it more reliable in off-grid situations. The cooler features a rugged, lightweight frame with sturdy handles, designed to handle rough outdoor conditions while still being relatively easy to carry at 37 pounds.

Its dual-zone cooling compartments allow you to set different temperatures for each side, giving extra flexibility if you want to keep food and drinks at different temperatures. The high-resolution display and app control via WiFi or Bluetooth make monitoring and adjusting settings straightforward, even remotely. This model also automatically defrosts, reducing maintenance. On the downside, it weighs more than some smaller portable fridges, which could be a factor if you prioritize ultra-lightweight gear. While energy efficient for its class, continuous compressor operation can still drain power faster than simpler coolers, so battery management is important. Noise levels are generally low but can be noticeable in very quiet environments when the compressor is running.

This unit is best suited for those who want a reliable, tech-friendly cooler with solid capacity and rugged durability for outdoor adventures or long road trips.

Rating
9.7
Power Source
Temperature Range
Energy Efficiency

Most important from
582 reviews

Power Source
Versatile power options allow seamless functioning on both AC and DC power sources, enhancing convenience on the road.
Temperature Range
The cooler maintains a consistent internal temperature, effectively preserving already cold or frozen items without frequent fluctuations.
Energy Efficiency
Energy consumption is impressively low for a compressor cooler, typically running between 15 to 25 watts when maintaining cold temperatures.
Portability
The build quality is outstanding, with robust handles that make carrying a heavy, fully loaded cooler manageable for two people.
Durability
Its rugged construction and reliability make it comparable to a 'Toyota' in the electric cooler category, trusted for long-term continuous use.
Noise Level
Whisper-quiet operation ensures the compressor noise is minimal and unobtrusive during use.
#3

Dometic CFX3 25-Liter Portable Refrigerator and Freezer, Powered by AC/DC or Solar

Rating
9.4
Temperature Range
Energy Efficiency
Portability

Most important from
582 reviews

Temperature Range
The temperature control is stable and precise, maintaining consistent internal conditions even with some natural variation near the shelves.
Energy Efficiency
Low power consumption makes it ideal for extended use, whether running on AC, DC, or solar power during outdoor adventures.
Portability
Its size and sturdy construction make it a perfect fit for camper vans, doubling as a workspace or seat when needed.
Durability
This unit delivers reliable performance consistently, working as dependably as a trusted, well-built appliance.
Noise Level
The quiet operation is impressive—noticeably quieter than typical fridges, so it won’t disturb your environment unless you’re standing very close.

The Dometic CFX3 25-Liter Portable Refrigerator and Freezer is a solid choice for those needing a compact and efficient cooling solution on the go. Its 25-liter capacity is suitable for small groups or short trips such as picnics, fishing, or camping. One of its standout features is the ability to cool or freeze down to -7 °F without ice, thanks to a powerful compressor. This makes it versatile for both refrigeration and deep freezing needs. The fridge can be powered via AC, DC, or solar energy, offering flexibility for different outdoor scenarios. It also includes a built-in battery protection system, which helps prevent battery drain during use.

Portability is enhanced by its relatively lightweight design at 28 pounds and sturdy aluminum alloy handles, along with rugged ExoFrame construction for durability in tough environments. Energy efficiency is a strong point due to its advanced cooling technology and low power consumption, which is important for extended use when relying on limited power sources. The user-friendly high-resolution color display and app connectivity via WiFi or Bluetooth allow easy temperature control and monitoring from your phone, adding convenience.

A potential consideration is the noise level, which is not explicitly mentioned but typical compressor units can produce some sound—this might be a factor for very quiet environments. The Dometic CFX3 is well suited for outdoor enthusiasts who want reliable portable refrigeration with smart features, a durable build, and flexible power options, though it may be slightly heavier than some ultra-compact models.

Rating
9.4
Temperature Range
Energy Efficiency
Portability

Most important from
582 reviews

Temperature Range
The temperature control is stable and precise, maintaining consistent internal conditions even with some natural variation near the shelves.
Energy Efficiency
Low power consumption makes it ideal for extended use, whether running on AC, DC, or solar power during outdoor adventures.
Portability
Its size and sturdy construction make it a perfect fit for camper vans, doubling as a workspace or seat when needed.
Durability
This unit delivers reliable performance consistently, working as dependably as a trusted, well-built appliance.
Noise Level
The quiet operation is impressive—noticeably quieter than typical fridges, so it won’t disturb your environment unless you’re standing very close.

Buying Guide for the Best Portable Refrigerators

Choosing the right portable refrigerator can make a big difference in your outdoor adventures, road trips, or even just for extra cooling space at home. The key is to understand your needs and how different specifications can meet those needs. Here are some important specs to consider when selecting a portable refrigerator and how to navigate them.
CapacityCapacity refers to the amount of space inside the refrigerator, usually measured in liters or quarts. This is important because it determines how much food and drink you can store. Smaller capacities (around 20-30 liters) are suitable for short trips or single-person use, while larger capacities (50 liters and above) are better for longer trips or family use. Consider how much you need to store and choose a capacity that fits your requirements.
Power SourcePortable refrigerators can be powered in different ways, including 12V car outlets, 110V home outlets, and sometimes even solar panels. This spec is crucial because it affects where and how you can use the refrigerator. If you plan to use it mainly in your car, a 12V option is essential. For home use, ensure it has a 110V plug. Some models offer dual power options, providing more flexibility. Choose based on where you will most frequently use the refrigerator.
Temperature RangeThe temperature range indicates how cold the refrigerator can get. This is important for keeping different types of food and drinks at the right temperature. Some portable refrigerators can go as low as -20°C (-4°F), which is suitable for freezing items, while others may only cool to around 0°C (32°F). If you need to store frozen goods, opt for a model with a lower temperature range. For general cooling, a higher range will suffice.
Energy EfficiencyEnergy efficiency refers to how much power the refrigerator uses to maintain its temperature. This is important for conserving battery life when using a car outlet or reducing electricity costs at home. Look for models with energy-saving features like eco modes or good insulation. If you plan to use the refrigerator for extended periods without access to power, prioritize energy-efficient models to ensure longer operation.
PortabilityPortability includes factors like weight, size, and the presence of handles or wheels. This is crucial for ease of transport, especially if you plan to move the refrigerator frequently. Lighter models (under 20 kg) are easier to carry, while heavier models may come with wheels for easier movement. Consider how often and how far you will need to move the refrigerator and choose a model that offers the right balance of portability and capacity.
DurabilityDurability refers to how well the refrigerator can withstand rough handling and various environmental conditions. This is important for ensuring the longevity of the product, especially if you plan to use it outdoors. Look for models with sturdy construction, reinforced corners, and weather-resistant materials. If you expect to use the refrigerator in rugged conditions, prioritize durability to avoid frequent replacements or repairs.
Noise LevelNoise level indicates how loud the refrigerator is when operating. This is important for maintaining a quiet environment, especially if you plan to use it in a confined space like a car or a small room. Quieter models are generally more pleasant to be around. If noise is a concern for you, look for models that specify low noise levels or have user reviews mentioning quiet operation.

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