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10 Best 12 Volt Coolers 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

9.7 score

Dometic CFX3 75-Liter Dual Zone Portable Refrigerator and Freezer, Powered by AC/DC or Solar…

The Dometic CFX3 75-Liter Dual Zone Portable Refrigerator and Freezer is an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a reliable and powerful cooling solution. With a generous 75-liter capacity, it can hold a significant amount of food and drinks, making it suitable for activities like camping, fishing, or picnics. One of its standout features is its ability to refrigerate or deep freeze items down to -7°F, thanks to its efficient VMSO3 compressor cooling technology, which ensures that your perishables stay fresh even in warm conditions.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Capacity
Generous capacity is ideal for long journeys, capable of holding a significant amount of food and drinks.
Cooling Performance
Effective cooling and freezing even in harsh environments, thanks to VMSO3 technology.
Power Consumption
Reliable and efficient with power, making it a top choice for those who want the best.
Durability
Exceptional cooler and freezer that blends durability with superior functionality.
Additional Features
Bluetooth app control enables remote temperature monitoring and adjustment, which is handy while on the move.
#2
9.4 score

BougeRV 12 Volt Refrigerator 12V Car Fridge 23 Quart Portable Freezer Compressor Cooler 12/24V DC 110~240 Volt AC for Truck Van RV Camper SUV Travel Camping Road Trips Tailgating -7℉~50℉

The BougeRV 12 Volt Refrigerator is a solid choice for those seeking a portable cooling solution. With a generous capacity of 23 quarts, it offers ample space for food and drinks during road trips or camping. One of its standout features is the fast cooling capability, which allows it to reach temperatures as low as -5℉ in under an hour. This is particularly beneficial for keeping perishable items fresh without the hassle of ice. The unit is also designed with low power consumption in mind, consuming less than 45 watts, which is great for energy efficiency, making it suitable for various vehicles like RVs, trucks, and boats.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Capacity
The absence of ice means more usable space and no worries about food getting wet from melting ice.
Cooling Performance
The BougeRV 12V refrigerator reaches 32 degrees in less than 20 minutes and maintains even cooling throughout the compartment.
Power Consumption
Low power consumption is a standout feature, drawing only 36 watts in ECO mode and 45 watts in regular mode.
Portability
It's lightweight and compact, making it easy to place in a small camper or the rear seat of a truck.
Durability
Ideal for road trips and camping, the fridge is durable, reliable, and does an excellent job of keeping food and drinks cold.
#3
9.1 score

ENGEL MT35 34 Quart Platinum Series Portable Top Opening 12/24V DC - 110/120V AC Fridge-Freezer

The ENGEL MT35 34 Quart Platinum Series Portable Fridge-Freezer is a solid choice for those who need a reliable 12-volt cooler for outdoor activities like camping, fishing, and picnics. One of its standout features is its dual power compatibility, allowing it to operate on both 12/24V DC and 110/120V AC, which makes it versatile for use in vehicles or at home. The digital temperature control with an LED display is user-friendly and ensures that your items remain at the desired temperature.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Cooling Performance
Extremely versatile, reliable and the temperature never varies more than one degree.
Power Consumption
This fridge is very efficient, especially when off-grid and relying on batteries for power.
Durability
My Engel has been operating perfectly for 21 years, even in extreme temperatures over 110 degrees.

Top 10 Best 12 Volt Coolers 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

9.7 score

Dometic CFX3 75-Liter Dual Zone Portable Refrigerator and Freezer, Powered by AC/DC or Solar…

Capacity: 75 Liters
Cooling Performance: Deep freeze to -7°F
Power Consumption: VMSO3 compressor cooling
Portability: Lightweight ExoFrame, alloy handles
Durability: Impact-resistant plastic
Additional Features: WiFi, Bluetooth control, battery protection

Chosen by 1314 this week

ENGEL MT35 34 Quart Platinum Series Portable Top Opening 12/24V DC - 110/120V AC Fridge-Freezer

Capacity: 34 Quarts
Cooling Performance: Digital temp control, LED display
Power Consumption: 12/24V DC, 110/120V AC
Portability: Portable
Durability: Vibration-resistant compressor, Impact Resistance
Additional Features: Incline operation up to 30°

Igloo Thermoelectric Iceless 28-40 Qt Electric Plug-in 12V Coolers, 40 Qt Iceless Gray

Capacity: 40 Liters
Cooling Performance: Cools up to 38°F below ambient
Power Consumption: 12V DC auto plug adapter
Portability: 18.8 Pounds
Durability: Polypropylene material
Additional Features: Adjustable food shelf or divider
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Buying Guide for the Best 12 Volt Coolers

Choosing the right 12-volt cooler can make a significant difference in your travel, camping, or road trip experience. These coolers are designed to be powered by your vehicle's 12-volt outlet, making them convenient for keeping your food and drinks cold on the go. To find the best fit for your needs, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they impact performance and usability. Here are the main specs to consider when selecting a 12-volt cooler.
CapacityCapacity refers to the amount of space inside the cooler, usually measured in quarts or liters. This spec is important because it determines how much food and drink you can store. Small coolers (up to 20 quarts) are suitable for solo travelers or short trips, medium coolers (20-40 quarts) are ideal for small families or weekend getaways, and large coolers (over 40 quarts) are best for extended trips or larger groups. Consider how much you typically need to store and choose a capacity that meets your needs without being too bulky.
Cooling PerformanceCooling performance indicates how well the cooler can maintain a low temperature. This is crucial for keeping your items fresh and safe to consume. Some coolers can cool to a specific temperature below ambient, while others can maintain a set temperature. Look for coolers that can cool to at least 40°F below ambient temperature for general use. If you need to store perishable items, consider models with more precise temperature control. Your choice should depend on the type of items you plan to store and the environmental conditions you'll be in.
Power ConsumptionPower consumption measures how much energy the cooler uses, typically in watts. This is important because it affects how long you can run the cooler on your vehicle's battery without draining it. Lower power consumption is better for longer trips or if you plan to use the cooler frequently. Coolers with power consumption under 50 watts are generally more efficient, while those over 50 watts may offer better cooling performance but at the cost of higher energy use. Consider your vehicle's battery capacity and how long you need the cooler to run when choosing.
PortabilityPortability refers to how easy it is to move and transport the cooler. This includes factors like weight, handles, and wheels. Lightweight coolers (under 20 pounds) are easier to carry but may have less capacity or insulation. Heavier coolers (over 20 pounds) often have better insulation and capacity but can be cumbersome to move. Look for features like sturdy handles or wheels if you need to move the cooler frequently. Your choice should balance ease of transport with the cooler's capacity and performance.
DurabilityDurability indicates how well the cooler can withstand rough use and harsh conditions. This is important for ensuring the cooler lasts through multiple trips and adventures. Coolers made from high-quality materials like heavy-duty plastic or metal are more durable but can be heavier. Look for features like reinforced corners, strong latches, and weather-resistant seals. If you plan to use the cooler in rugged environments or for extended periods, prioritize durability. For occasional use, a less rugged but lighter model may suffice.
Additional FeaturesAdditional features can enhance the usability and convenience of the cooler. These might include things like digital temperature displays, USB ports for charging devices, or dual-zone compartments for separate cooling and freezing. While not essential, these features can make your experience more enjoyable and versatile. Consider which features are important to you based on how you plan to use the cooler. For example, a digital display can help you monitor the temperature more easily, while dual-zone compartments are useful if you need to store different types of items at different temperatures.

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