12v Compressor Fridge Comparison - ICECO, Alpicool, Engel, Ausranvik, and more!

Where you can buy the fridges in the video:
Engel MT45: engelcoolers.com
Outsunny Alpicool BD60 60L: aosom.com
Zokop 60L: ebay.com
ICECO VL45: collabs.shop/spqp9f
ICECO JP42C: collabs.shop/tszdiw
Ausranvik APR 50B: amzn.to/33q4hFf
SMETA: amzn.to/2Dlq71Z
Indel-B TB41A: www.truckfridge.com/portable-...)
Indel-B TB31: www.truckfridge.com/portable-...)
Vevor Alpicool B22: amzn.to/37rTrzH
ICECO GO20: collabs.shop/3q0tej
Learn more on my website article "Beginner's Guide to 12v Fridges"
jasonoid.com/fridge-buyers-gu...
In this video we go over 11 different models of 12v compressor fridges that are currently available. It takes time to talk about all these fridges so I hope you stick around! These fridges are budget friendly and work well. Enjoy the video and maybe we can convince you that you need one too!
You can buy the fridge thermometer mentioned in the video here (Amazon Affiliate link):
amzn.to/33ign3a
You can buy the higher quality 12 volt extension cable mentioned in the video here (Amazon Affiliate link):
Sccke 14awg long cable (cut in half and have two adapters)
amzn.to/2EREnA7
Sccke 14awg short cable (cut off one of the ends and solder fridge connector)
amzn.to/2DBhsIw
The use of Amazon affiliate links provide a small commission for me when you use them. Thanks for supporting my channel!
TimeStamps
Introduction: (0:00)
Engel MT45: (2:20)
Zokop 60L: (4:00)
Outsunny Alpicool BD60 60L: (4:30)
ICECO VL45: (5:37)
ICECO JP42C: (7:24)
Ausranvik APR 50B: (8:26)
SMETA: (9:05)
Voltage Drop/Batter Protection Tips: (11:07)
Fridge Temperature Tips: (13:27)
Both Styles of Lids: (14:21)
Indel-B TB41A: (15:08)
Indel-B TB31: (15:36)
What Does Your Money Buy?: (17:07)
Vevor Alpicool B22: (17:53)
Running a Fridge Overnight, Will Your Battery Die?: (18:41)
ICECO GO20 : (19:14)
Downsides of the 12v Socket: (22:16)
Custom Cables - Anderson Powerpole: (23:41)
Running off a Portable Battery: (24:18)
Fridge Connector Plugs: (25:13)
Powering Your Fridge in Your Vehicle: (27:00)
Jeff's Top Picks: (28:40)
No more ICE!: (31:30)
Power Usage, Specs, Pricing: (32:33)

[@Jasonoid]

Where you can buy the fridges in the video: Engel MT45: engelcoolers.com Outsunny Alpicool BD60 60L: aosom.com Zokop 60L: search on ebay.com ICECO VL45: collabs.shop/spqp9f ICECO JP42C: collabs.shop/tszdiw Ausranvik APR 50B: amzn.to/33q4hFf SMETA: amzn.to/2Dlq71Z Indel-B TB41A: www.truckfridge.com/portable-refrigerator-freezers/) Indel-B TB31: www.truckfridge.com/portable-refrigerator-freezers/) Vevor Alpicool B22: amzn.to/37rTrzH ICECO GO20: collabs.shop/3q0tej

[@MattLaVoie1]

Thank you, I'm so sick of all the useless sponsored "reviews" of 12V fridges coming out, it's so hard to find someone who had used many kinds and can honestly compare them. I really appreciate your videos on this!

[@davidgodley521]

Paleeze read my 2 comments just above.

[@matthoward1174]

@tillallareoneluv Check out Will Prowse's channel. Good info there !

[@GHE2005]

@tillallareoneluv I agree u can never tell from Sponcers who gets kick back that's why I real other reviews from consumer buyers. I think is a lot of work to shoot & edit when affiliate do shoot on products. The two pros I watch KZbin about products is Will & Hobotech guys. They both do excellent testing and extremely knowledgeable.

[@herniedog4641]

Rik on gone again is also another great way to make a decision on the product.

[@DeanTheDoctor]

For sure. These guys are extremely helpful. 😊🌎✨

[@HolmesProspecting]

Holy Smokes. I found the holy grail of reviews.

[@tcrossfranco]

Guess you could say this guy has a COOL hobby...😁

[@RevCurtis]

His code just saved me $230. $468 delivered for a iceco TR60. Thanx! Videos are great 👍

[@madnecter]

This guy is an absolute legend! This is a Passionate man here. Grateful for our unique-ness in this world

[@trentcantu2031]

loyalty to innovation is admirable. always forward

[@LoveYourself-1970]

I love wisdom that older people have... Very smart man

[@_FaTMaRV_]

My wife has the same hobby…..owning more shoes than any human could possibly need. Thanks for your reviews!

[@MaryOKC]

LOL! 😆

[@Bob61944]

Are we married to the same woman?

[@paulsteven4551]

Engel - My father bought one in new 1985 & I bought one 2nd hand in 2000 (1986) for $400 (Aus), both still going strong.

[@lonelyocean9503]

If I could find one used for $400 I’d be real happy. AUD or USD wouldn’t even matter

[@galacticwarlock2271]

I'm looking at the iceco. This comparison was a little confusing. I assume all these fridges are pretty good.

[@bc_usa]

@@galacticwarlock2271 That's what I brought. It had good reviews on KZbin.

[@michaelwright1602]

I have the identical ICECO unit, the 45 he has in the video, it is built like a tank. I have had it a year now in my semi, I pulled the front passenger seat and bolted it to the floor. No issues to date, it holds 38* and it is never shut off. I was parked for around a week, away from the truck, my 1/2 gallon of milk was still ice cold and fresh when I got into it today. I have solar on the truck, and it draws very little energy on the 12 volt side. I did purchase the ABR 12 volt plug as it stays put in the outlet. I would buy this unit again.

[@justinyates5917]

I drive semi aswell and am debating getting an ICECO dual zone instead of a mini fridge/freezer so I can use it outside the truck if I want.

[@wendybarker5118]

I really enjoyed this video. The presenters were knowledgable and humble. Excellent job.

[@voltron5128]

This video had me smiling throughout the whole video. I thought I was the only one who viewed fridges this way. Great stuff and thanks for sharing

[@visamedic]

It’s a lot of fridges. I have to admit I geek out on other stuff, in some cases, bordering on obsession 🤓

[@voltron5128]

@@visamedic I feel ya!

[@matthoward1174]

I appreciate Jeff's commitment to the research. I recently got an Alpicool CF55 single zone, and am pretty happy with it so far.

[@one-of-us9939]

Wow, I feel blessed to gain knowledge from you two... Thank you both!

[@larrybell4599]

This is the best comparison of 12 volt refrigeration that I have found.

[@foxforpeace7351]

This really helps with my research on a frig for my RV! Thank you for the excellent spreadsheet.

[@Jasonoid]

You're welcome

[@jeffpv.]

Well presented! Next spring / summer I'll be looking at picking up a smaller one, and now I have some good info to help decide.

[@tommykimble2405]

I love my 12v engel. If I wanted to it would freeze a box of ice cream solid! Been using it constantly in my semi truck since 2017 with 0 issues.

[@justinyates5917]

I drive semi as well and am thinking of getting dual zone setup over a mini fridge so I can have more freezer space for extended time on the road.

[@michaelhatcher873]

Where do you store it?

[@tommykimble2405]

@@michaelhatcher873 I have mine sitting on my passenger seat with 2 1000lb straps holding it safely to the seat frame(dot has never had an issue with it).it does have some weight to it and without being strapped down it could be really bad in case of an accident.

[@priusdwelling504]

It has a one piece swing compressor and lasts longer then all of them. CHEAPEST lifetime cost!!it uses 1/3 the power!!!!

[@IAmWoody]

I was looking at a different, less expensive, model of the chest freezer (as well as larger), but after watching this I have decided on the VL 45 and have now ordered it. Thank you for doing this. I think it is going to help a lot of folks going forward.

[@Jasonoid]

Glad I could help!

[@debbiewollard9056]

wow!! That was awesome - thanks for taking the time to put all of this in one place and for the spreadsheet at the end of the video.

[@Jasonoid]

I recently wrote up a 12v fridge buyers guide. Check out my website for more details! Thanks for watching!

[@gaylewilliams9938]

The fact that I, an almost 60-yo grandma, watched, and LIKED, a 30-minute video about technology means a lot! lol. I'm looking forward to getting and equipping a "Mini Van Camper" with solar power, fridge, and A/C, in the next year or two. I just found your page, hoping to find information comparing COOLING / Air-conditioning using Solar Power.

[@Jasonoid]

These fridges are perfect for van campers! You'll find lots of info online 😊Air conditioners require quite a bit of power, running them off solar is possible but you'll want to have a large battery bank and 1000 watts of solar. Evaporative cooling works in dry climates and uses much less power!

[@madisonb6570]

Thanks so much, Jeff and Jason! Just purchased the ICECO VL45 and got 15% off! It was also fantastic to get free shipping and $0 in tax. Great purchase, can't wait to use it on our camping trip to Cape Lookout, NC! - Madison

[@Jasonoid]

How did it work for you?! Did your trip go well?

[@azmax623]

I swapped all the accessory outlets for Blue Sea locking outlets. The fridge outlet has a 10ga wire to an always on fuse block I added. It solved the low voltage issue.

[@Shamustodd1]

I love that this video was based on personal experience of an enthusiast not on who's sponsoring the vid. Super helpful and made me a sub.

[@videopipeline6419]

As you've pointed out, larger coolers consume very little additional energy than their smaller counterparts. That's fundamentally due to the square-cube factor (volume goes up by the cube, but exterior surface area goes up by the square; e.g.: a one cubic foot cube has an external surface area of 864 sq. in., while a 2 cubic foot cube has an external surface area of 1,371 sq. in., less than 59% more exterior surface than the 1CF cube.) But that's true only if the lid stays closed. Since the EPA ratings take into account some lid opening/closing cycles, that's why tall deep chest freezers use less energy than short wide ones, and a lot less than upright freezers.

[@pavel9652]

Thanks! I was aware of the surface area and volume powers, but I didn't realized the shape of fridge matters so much. I guess we can always optimize for the biggest volume and the smallest surface. Is it better to open a chest fridge multiple times for a short amount of time or once but longer when removing many items from the fridge? ;)

[@michelepaine8480]

So informative! Thank you gentlemen :) Definitely looking into getting one of these (and also the option of going solar with it). Also great information re: the 12 volt fuse switch in the vehicle. So far as I know, mine only runs whilst running or on accessory mode. I was not aware that my battery would be fine overnight with some of the smaller models if that switch was made. I have a Hyundai SUV. The thought of letting anything run overnight has always made me nervous even if the vehicle did it. I would hate to wake up to a dead battery (still learning) Well Done!

[@mikestirewalt5193]

Get a "booster" type battery pack that comes with leads for car batteries. It will start the car whenever necessary. Costco sometimes has them. Harbor Freight for cheap ones - $80 or less. I got a Caterpillar at Costco and haven't needed to use it but it's very good quality. Well worth the money to have one of these in the trunk or back seat floor. Also has AC outlet and 12 volt outlet.

[@tonyengland9744]

Super video, great job. I enjoyed all of the info. Thank you.

[@Ohsage1111]

Dammmmnnnn. I am amazed at the thoroughness of this vid. I am officially educated to the hilt. THANK YOU!

[@kerrismindset]

Thank you so much. I'm a truck driver and I need a portable fridge. You saved my life with this video. Now I know what to get and what can fit in my volvo. Thank your Dad for me. He's the best

[@leedaht]

I have a Volvo 780. Which fridge did you get that fits your Volvo?

[@kerrismindset]

I have a Volvo also. I got the smallest iceco size 45. It's still big. I kinda underestimated it. But that fridge works so good with the 12v. Perfect.

[@marcireale]

Well, that was pretty amazing. I’m searching for a fridge for my cargo trailer conversion, and I like that Iceco 45. Your video was just what I needed. Thank you.

[@bennyhill6161]

ICECO is a Great Company. I purchased the ICECO 65 dual zone with the Danfoss compressor @ my time of purchase(late 2018) I believe ICECO no longer uses the Danfoss.

[@12vLife]

Something you said that is so true: 11:00 wiring matters a lot. A good gauge wire and staying close to your battery if you can , will help a lot. I've got an Alpicool c15 and it's has performed very well. I originally paid $199 2 years ago on amazon. I use mine in my van to keep raw and cooked meats and leftovers at around 25F for up to 4 days in Florida in the summer. While the compressor is running on 12v it reads about 2.3amps. At night when it's around 75F ambient it barely turns on. I've spent a month in the van. It's small, but seems to fit my need perfectly as I drink my water at room temp and don't drink beer or soda. I keep my lettuce , tomatoes, bread, spices, canned goods and powdered creamer outside of the fridge in a ventilated part of my van and they seem to do fine without refrigeration.

[@Nini51963]

Thanks for the review , I owned a Colman that I lent to a family member and never got back and wanted to see what is new on the market before I go out and buy . You really got me thinking about what I actually want and need and how much I want to spend also the weight would have never thought of that. Thanks so much ,it helped me from just doing a impulse buy.

[@Jasonoid]

You can save some money using my discount code on an ICECO fridge. They hold a good place in the market because they have a secop compressor with a 5 year warranty. They are a bit cheaper than a Dometic but not cheap garbage like some brands on Amazon. You can check out my website for more info about them!

[@betzaidavazquez5579]

Thank you so much for this Great review your friend was so helpful, and Jason for sharing this guys knowledge. Really needed this 😍👍

[@visamedic]

Been going over options for a trailer I’m building, or at least am gonna start to build after the lumber prices come down, but anyway, this is definitely the most comprehensive review I’ve seen on these. I’m positive I can set up fully for boon-docking, and will only have to worry about feeding the water supply and the fridge itself. I’ve been an RV’er for years, and have always been happy with the AC-DC-propane fridges. But you take two of these, stick them on full slide outs and you just gained more countertop space, or a pantry space. On top of that, other videos have shown how well they do with solar/Jackery-type setups. No propane. Stick a little wood stove in the trailer and your done. You have a little mobile, fully off grid, cabin. Thank you for your obsession 😁🤪🤓

[@bennyhill6161]

Up up up as them Flames burn higher, down down down, they're all liars, they're all liars, liars

[@eto2352]

I also have a Engel 45. I had no idea it was so expensive now! It's all metal, so it's been indestructible offroading. Great fridge, just heavy! Thanks for the fantastic information

[@eto2352]

@James Young $580 ARB was the exact same fridge, with a temp gauge added. ARB was a lot more $, so I got the Engel. Seems they all went to plastic now.

[@SD_Alias]

As far as I know, the tariffs for products from Germany have been increased by uncle Donald significantly.

[@jimijamma6106]

HOLY SMOKES. exactly what i was lookin for. thank you. best luck in your future endeavors!

[@allthingsnu4673]

Thanks for the video! It makes a world of difference to hear from someone who actually uses several models.

[@Jasonoid]

We have lots of other videos on the channel about batteries solar panels and 12v fridges! Hope you check out the other content!

[@jgtaylor2201]

OH. MY. DEAR. SWEET. LORD!!!! I hit the mother-load with finding this video. Fantastic content. Very well done and informative.

[@Jasonoid]

Thanks! I have lots of other great videos about 12v fridges, solar panels and powering them with portable batteries, hope to see you back again sometime!

[@OIII-IOOO]

i’m a full time nomad and i’ve been running an Alpicool C30 (42 qrt) for the last three months on a 100 a/h agm battery. i bought 2 wire baskets and 2 plastic containers on amazon to help organize the inside. i can’t recommend it highly enough.

[@Jasonoid]

I have tested a couple Alpicool, been happy with them!

[@wallywal6139]

I really enjoyed this video...so many fridges all in one place! Many thanks to your father-in-law for bringing his collection and sharing his expertise. Here's one more to add. I recently purchased the Engel 45 quart but the "combi" model that's a split fridge and freezer in one 45 quart unit. What I like; it's a fridge and freezer (or just a fridge) and you can very the size of the compartments, it's a good usable size, low power usage, unsurpassed reliability and durability record, now has a digital temp readout, proven proprietary compressor and built like a tank being all metal. What I don't like is the price but you truly get what you pay for. I take this remote camping and it gets banged around on really bad roads so I wanted a durable fridge and I needed low power consumption. I expect this to last me many years with no issues and never having to wonder if it will be reliable in the long run (or have to replace it in a few years) is worth the price to me. I also have the Engel 35 quart and it has been equally impressive for the last few years but I needed a separate freezer compartment to extend off-grid trips.

[@Jasonoid]

Thanks for sharing your experience with us, appreciate you watching the video! Those Engel fridges are sure nice!

[@fuckyoutube70]

Saving people alot of money with a video like this. Trial and error is expensive. Thank you for this!!

[@Jasonoid]

Ever since this video Ive really loved my ICECO VL45, it's a great balance between price and quality. Not expensive like Dometic or Engel but it performs very good. Going with a cheaper option also is good but they won't last as long.

[@michaeltichonuk2176]

I was pretty much committed to Engels when he said 12 plus yrs of use. No other manufacturer can claim that. No regrets yet. Buy once, cry once. And this freezer/fridge has been the best improvement I made camping. Ice no longer dictates my menu or trips to town. That's huge to me. Thanks, again. I viewed this year ago when it was first posted .

[@DutchK75]

There's people that have had Engels for 40+ years in Australia. They were imported here by Norcold and ARB back in the day. A friend has two Norcold Tek2's that are 25+ years old. Rebranded Engels.

[@runawaysailing2032]

@@DutchK75 absolutely, I have a 40lt engel that's nearly 30 years old.. its also passed around the family on a regular basis and it would be fair to say it has more dents & rust than a 1970's Datsun.. But has never missed a beat..

[@DutchK75]

@@runawaysailing2032 Yeah I bought two of the MT45's. They are great. My problem was running two 12v systems in my Peterbilt and having two fridges sliding around. I am keeping them though. I bought a dual zone Snomaster Expedition 85L. And am very pleased with it thus far. I don't know if it'll last as long as a Engel. But the Engel Combi's didn't do it for me. So I'm hoping this gives me good service. It cools down way faster than any 12v fridge I've seen.

[@karincorbin2355]

My 17 liter Engel is one of the ones that were imported by Norcold. I bought it second hand. 25+years of age and still going strong. I have had it running full time for the last 3 years in daily use as a fridge. Set the dial to number 1 and it stays the perfect food safe temp. But as a freezer it gets down to medical safe rated for well below freezing temperatures. Engels are purchased by emergency services exactly for that purpose and their rock solid reliability. So if you are full time on the road the Engel is an excellent value over time even though the initial purchase price is higher it will outlast all the others and end up costing less over time.

[@rvingtheusa]

Im full time RV'er and love my little Ausranvik fridge. It my main fridge as removed the old albatross that came with the 20 yr old motorhome. Mine has the door open the opposite way (long wise). I love the fact it plugs and vents in the front and can place it right up to the wall and the door opens easy. I use it in eco mode live 75% of my time in the desert and it maintains between 32 and 40 all the time. When it's pluged back in it remembers the previous setting. I use a Jackery 500 power station with the 100 watt portable panal to recharge when off grid. I plug it into the jackery when traveling using the cigarette lighter plug in that comes with jackery and have no problem with it. The only thing I dont like is there is no cover over the controls and if you have a cat or sit something on top of it it may change settings. It will also work as a freezer so for under $400 you can buy 2 and have a fridge and a freezer as it does not do both at once. With 2- you would need at least a 1000 watt power station with at least a 200 solar panel. Pricey but worth it. I also run my washing machine, fan, and crockpot with the same power station but not all at the same time. I love solar as need not carry gas on board. Get a power station you can use and charge at the same time if your someone who boondocks a lot.

[@Jasonoid]

Thanks so much for sharing your experience!

[@henryhurtz8542]

What do you mean by power station?...

[@rvingtheusa]

@@henryhurtz8542 Jackery is a lithium battery pack that can be recharged 3 ways solar, cigarette lighter or house current different wattage on Amazon. Old school mechanics call them battery packs.

[@henryhurtz8542]

@@rvingtheusa awesome, thanks for the feedback

[@imaudm]

Love my Ausranvik.

[@GXOverland]

Thanks for the help! You’re a big reason why I picked up a ICECO TR60 today! Just put up a first look video on my channel!

[@Jasonoid]

It's funny because I just watched your TR60 video today. These fridges sure make camping more enjoyable, no more ice!

[@krisg3984]

This video just came out in time for my hunt for a camp fridge. Best lineup and quick review I can find yet. Wish I had better eyes to see the last page you put up - you did well, giving us time to look at it. Just too small for me to see. I appreciate this video ! I need to find your wiring for your 4Runner now, ! 😎

[@Jasonoid]

I don't have a video on how I did my wiring on my 4Runner, but there are a bunch of forums about running power from the front battery to the back. Just google it. I used 8 AWG wire for the least voltage drop for just the positive connection (fused at the battery) and then connected all the negatives to the metal chassis right by the jack. 4Runners have negative chassis so you can just ground it out. Then you won't have to run two cables (one positive and one negative the whole length of the truck). Let me know if you have any questions, happy to help. Also for the last page specs, just watch on a desktop in full screen, should help with the sizing.

[@thewayibuiltit6083]

Engel is huge in Australia here. But the toughest fridge for our conditions is a trailblazer. All custom made here. Has 125mm (5inches) of insulation

[@yuk-erkmckirk9277]

Well i've had a 90L fridgemate for 13yrs and never a problem in the NT,FNQ or any tropical zone, BD50 danfoss ,won't rust and duel or single zone. it holds shit loads and trailblazer weren't around then so i'm pretty happy with it. Plus on 240v it gets used as a beer fridge at home 24/7. Best $1000 investment i ever made. Used with my 2x80w panels on a solar tracker and never a flat battery ever.

[@OneFlewOver1776]

Wow Jeff reminds me of me except I was collecting matchbox cars...lol

[@Vandrade89]

Nice collection, great overall explanation. Worth watching!

[@sherrifultz3800]

Thank you for this! A bit odd of a hobby to have but what incredible advice! Thank him for me! I've watched this video now at least 3 times while looking for my fridge (hopefully deciding today!)

[@Jasonoid]

If you want any additional guidance let me know. Thanks for watching!

[@thewonderingbuddhist6123]

Weman!!! 😂😂

[@bn0235743]

Awesome video guys. I was looking at the iceco 45 and after this video I honestly think that will be the one I go with.

[@Jasonoid]

You cant go wrong with that one. It's my favorite as well! My next channel video will be my review of the VL45. I don't know why I waited to do it last lol, thanks for watching!

[@Fix_It_Again_Tony]

I second this comment. I was on the fence, but after seeing this the VL45 is the fridge for me.

[@adamjones2025]

Engel is a Australia owned product Since 1962. The reason why you pay more for them is because they are hard to kill and very robust. I had my father inlaws repaired this year cost about $890 , it's 15 years old done countless trips all accross Australia and never once failed apart from this year when the compressor failed to due age. Another thing you can fully rebuild the things right from the handles to seals to the inside baskets, You name it they have spares. The repairer said to me the bigger models are easy to repair unlike the new ones that are fully sealed with zero access, plus other brands put more electronics in them so failure rate is increased. The thing is you do get what you pay for. And i have seen countless fridge/freezers at the crap heap because it's cheaper to buy a new one than try and repair them or they are non serviceable. I WILL POINT OUT THAT with the engel being 15 years old it was hardly ever turned off, it was when i turned it off for a month it crapped it'self

[@Jasonoid]

Great info! Thanks for sharing your experience with Engel! They are indestructible!

[@vantelontheroad1750]

Thank you. We have had a whynter slim 45 qt for several years for our camper van. We just purchased a smaller one we are planning on using the the smaller one as a refrigerator and the larger one as a freezer.

[@killahjeep]

I run an iceco vl60dz, and I love it for my camping trips.. I run a odyssey 27f 85Ah AGM in my tacoma, and ran a 4Ga. Cable from the battery 25ft back to a 4 circuit fuse block, and then to a cig lighter socket... have run 38 on fridge and 3 on freezer without issue on eco mode.

[@KiwiMark67]

I've had problems with a cigarette lighter plug backing out of the socket and losing power, they suck! I'd put an Anderson plug or similar under the dash (tucked away discretely when not in use) and just plug a lead from that to the fridge (buy a spare 12V lead for your fridge, cut off the cigarette lighter plug and put on a suitable reliable plug to match the one tucked under your dash). There are plenty of good plug types that have low resistance and low chance of disconnecting when you don't want them to.

[@bingsballyhoo711]

Lol, that shiny Iceco is sold out. They must love you guys!

[@Jasonoid]

The GO20 has been sold out for months, not sure they are making it anymore. Wasn't as popular as other models like the VL and JP series

[@mendicantsdelirium]

This is a perfect dad video. Excellent explanations. Learned a lot. Thanks!

[@Jasonoid]

Glad it was helpful!

[@BlueWonderLady]

Great!!! The BEST explanation and review of 12v minfridges

[@kellyname5733]

Super great video. The best ever. I finally feel like I could make an informed choice. I would really want to know more about that battery box, please! I have been looking at Jackery, but they are expensive. Between the frig. and a descent Jackery I will be spending $1500, way too much for me. 12V is downright silly these days, so outdated and not dependable.

[@Jasonoid]

If you purchase an ICECO VL45 on sale you can get a good price under $500. Jackery 500 for another $500 or so, should work pretty well. So only $1000 ;) haha

[@kellyname5733]

@@Jasonoid Of course ya' know I want the new Jackery 1000, right? lol, Im a solo so want overkill power. I want to power my frig., phone, laptop and an Electro warmth electric blanket pad. And yes I want the ICECO VL45, will buy it thru your link, thanks. Gosh, I have many wants dont I?

[@russellhawks3935]

I appreciate both your efforts in giving the review of 11 coolers. The last cooler "chiller" I bought was in 2000 and it did not last the trip as we had hoped and have not looked for a replacement till now. The comparison chart you included is very helpful. Could you show which units have the SECOP compressors that Jeff indicated was his choice of compressor in your comparison chart? Thanks again for doing a good review.

[@Jasonoid]

IndelB and Iceco units have the secop compressors. Dometic used to have them on now they made their own compressor. I have other fridge reviews on the channel, feel free to check out those other videos.

[@danielkramer8586]

Thanks for your time making this comparison. Would be nice to have some practical information about what situation each fridge would be best for and the benefits and drawbacks to each. Keep up the good work!

[@Greg-tj8rg]

I love that he specified that the test was done in his basement, consistent environment for all of them. It's nice to hear, I was thinking about getting an iceco (honestly they look to be better quality than dometic and cheaper) and that was the first one he looked at when you asked if he could only keep 3. I think I'd fancy the VL60 Iceco. It's only about $50 more and it gives 15 more liters of storage. Probably only an extra watt or so power draw.

[@Jasonoid]

Thanks for watching! Power draw is very similar since they use the same compressor on the VL45/VL60. You can't go wrong with either one. If you decide to go with ICECO you can check out my other videos for more details. You can also save a bit of money using the discount code JASONOID at checkout on their website.

[@avelinomiseray6349]

Way to go JEFF!!!!!!!! Fuck yea dude.. Nothing beats hands on experience making it easy for us newbies ! Really appreciate the review guys !

[@Jasonoid]

I hope you jump into the life of 12v fridges, it's pretty fun! haha

[@avelinomiseray6349]

@@Jasonoid based off Jeff’s insights I bought two iceco models! Very satisfied! I wish more fellas with extensive non biased info posted reviews

[@Jasonoid]

@@avelinomiseray6349 thanks for your comments! Appreciate you watching!

[@spcsalas138]

This man is to RV fridges what Hank Hill is to propane

[@markkitaoka8783]

Thanks for these comparisons. I just purchased a 52q Lion Freezer/Fridge from AcoPower. I've done my own testing and am very happy with the unit. Battery powered/solar rechargeable/AC rechargeable/12v rechargeable. I am using it as a backup freezer for my home and for multi day camping. Got tired of buying ice for 10 days of camping.

[@Jasonoid]

Sounds like an awesome setup, thanks for watching!

[@qhughes4555]

now i have a checklist and have started looking for my backseat fridge, very helpful video thank you two!

[@Jasonoid]

Lots more of these types videos on the channel, I hope you enjoy! Let me know if you have any questions.

[@mb-tz2ys]

From a the bottom of a Trucker's ❤️! Thank y'all so much for this review

[@Jasonoid]

Thanks for watching!

[@gailjohnson6670]

Good review..That's a lot of Fridges..Thank you for the video..Have a blessed day..

[@Jasonoid]

Thank you! You too!

[@CineStoryMedia]

Jeff is the hero we didn't know we needed

[@blairwilliams136]

This review was so insightful, thank you !

[@treasurethetime2463]

Been camping for 30 years. The problem with depending on ice is that it often is sold out exactly when you really need it in the heart of the summer in a busy area. And if you find it, you get little bags for 5 dollars. I love coolers too, but I limit my coolers for the beach and use a fridge for camping.

[@pouglwaw5932]

The last time I bought ice it was a buck a bag. The inconvenience and price are now a problem, but my real complaint was that ice bags always leaked and food floated in meltwater

[@macdaddy9344]

My wife would leave me after the third one I purchased... lol ... wait, hhmmm... I might need to test this theory... LOL

[@Jasonoid]

LOL, did the theory work out or not?

[@agentbey]

Great review. I'm interested in that portable battery kit.

[@senordockman1138]

Very timely video for us. Thanks

[@Jasonoid]

If you have any questions about any of the models, let me know!

[@garykvintus6943]

great video i run a85 qt domestic @ 29 ° food at 34 ` and bottles of water frozen indefinitely on one end and a whynter 65 qt dualzone as freezer in Phoenix AZ. all on 12 volt solar bank in my van now on 5 years

[@consaka1]

I advise folks that do a lot of camping to just get a separate battery for auxillary devices.

[@Jasonoid]

That works best, I have a couple battery boxes I have built and I am happy with them. Thanks for the tip!

[@craigwest9490]

Engel 40 years old and still going

[@Jasonoid]

They sure are great!

[@joaniet9914]

Loved your review so informative.

[@chicagochris1988]

nice collection sir! enjoyed the video!

[@paulshamblin6260]

I step up on my aplicool every day. I weigh 240-250.

[@Jasonoid]

Thanks for sharing I'm sure this will be helpful to someone who is watching!

[@supjay3945]

Hm..just because you can doesnt mean you should?

[@bakerbk3696]

You are missing out the best out of them all SnowMaster 😉

[@bakerbk3696]

Flying spagetti monster I’m yet to try the 92L

[@tommybronze3451]

Guys, thanks for the vid ! I came to check out what is available over the pond and see the take on different models and features, but the cigarette socket was a very valid point. I'm now prepping few things up for the summer season, so this and possibly LiFePo fallback might be a nice DIY thing to look into. (ps sorry for crap spelling :/)

[@Jasonoid]

Lifepo4 batteries have dropped significantly in price, it's totally worth the Investment now.

[@esqueue]

This is so crazy. Back in 2017 when I researched this, there were only two companies that offered something in the sizes and form factor that I wanted and they were fairly expensive. They were Engel and Dometic. I purchased my Dometic CF 18 (18 quart) as it was the only one within the price range and looked like a regular lunch box (form factor) that I wanted. I decided to look today to see that the market is now flooded with these and for lower than the $350 that I paid. The only thing I wish my model had was a digital gauge as there is only a few degrees of the knob to go from very cold to freezing. I purchased a few cheap digital thermometers and they all died from condensation. You'd think that they would design them to factor condensation in the mix. Well, now for me to watch this video. I'm sure that I'll enjoy it.

[@Jasonoid]

I recommend using a small fridge thermometer, they work well and dont care if they are wet or not. Check out my other fridge review videos, there are many great models that are available now!

[@farmboy5129]

What about Dometic, ARB, Snomaster?

[@Jasonoid]

Ain't no body got cash for that! Haha this video is more focused on budget fridges. I haven't caught the eye of sponsors for those premium fridges yet, maybe someday! Thanks for watching! (Only two of these fridges were sponsored: ICECO GO20, SMETA. All the others were purchased at cost)

[@aaroncherman7629]

Exactly. They are easily the most popular brands out there, and aren't included here? "Hey, I'll only compare stuff if someone gives it to me for free". Well then it's a terrible comparison.

[@Jasonoid]

​@@aaroncherman7629 Only 2 of these fridges were given for review (Smeta and ICECO GO20). All the other fridges were purchased at cost. Let's stick to the facts please.

[@aaroncherman7629]

@@Jasonoid Then your comment above "I haven't caught the eye of sponsors for those premium fridges yet" is misleading.

[@Jasonoid]

@@aaroncherman7629 Am I going to spend $1000+ on a fridge to make pennies on KZbin? No way! Those fridges are way too expensive for the average person. This video is showing 'budget' fridges that most people would be willing to purchase.

[@patrickmckenney2437]

Can you say Danfoss compressor? Thats all ya need to know.

[@Jasonoid]

#ICECO #INDELB

[@6226superhurricane]

sawafugi swing motor, one moving part lasts for decades, efficient, runs on angles, handles abuse theres really only one fridge / freezer in this comparison. Engel

[@93jummy]

Danfross if you love spoiled food, dead battery's and error modes. Good reason government in Australia puts engel in ambulances ect And climate ratings for Engel is the highest. Danfros is only rated sub tropical 38°c engel is 43. Big difference in the long run

[@Jasonoid]

@@93jummy your opinion is a bit extreme, sure Engel has a better compressor but it's not the only one in the world that works lol.... Way better than a cheap Chinese compressor

[@WalterPidgeonsForge]

Thank you for this.. it helped me be confident buying an ICECO VL60D 😊

[@XodiakTheMystic]

Great honest reviews. I'm converting a minivan and this was quite helpful.

[@Jasonoid]

I got lots of great videos on solar panels and batteries you also might find helpful, even a 12volt shower that works excellent for portable needs! Thanks for watching!

[@XodiakTheMystic]

@@Jasonoid I'll be sure to check them out!

[@davemi00]

Cheap Plugs are a Clue of Product Care and Quality.

[@3jhe]

This info is super useful! Thank you!!! I just placed an order using your code!

[@Jasonoid]

Thanks for watching, glad it was helpful!

[@johnwilson427]

That Orange tip on the end of the 12volt plug also suppresses the side tension wires. Great video! Will keep an eye out!

[@Jasonoid]

Learn more on my website article "Beginner's Guide to 12v Fridges" jasonoid.com/fridge-buyers-guide/ This video isn’t officially sponsored but I do have a special partnership with ICECO for anyone who uses my DISCOUNT CODE below will get 12% off their order at icecofreezer.com: icecofreezer.com/ Discount Code: JASONOID UPDATE ON POWER CONSUMPTION: There was an error I made in the editing of the video, for example: The VL 45 pulled 0.828 KWhr total over the duration of testing. Converting .828kWh into Amp hours at 12 volts = 69amp hours / 96 hours of total running of the fridge = .71 amp hours per hour at 70 degrees ambient. If the temps are higher you get more power draw, especially at temps about 90 degrees. Sorry for the confusion!

[@Theloss52]

I see the confusion now, you’re looking at a total efficiency, not operating current. 👍🏿 you could include how full the fridge was and how long it took to stabilize too. If it was empty and you just plug it in, there is no telling how that relates when it’s full.

[@Jasonoid]

@@Theloss52 The fridge is actually LESS efficient when empty. The inside temps swing quite a bit and the compressor runs more. 50 to 75 % capacity seems to be about the right balance of items in the fridge. Before I go on a trip, I always precool the fridge on wall power. It takes a couple hours for everything to calm down and get settled.

[@lonelyocean9503]

Thank you, I was about to ask what this “eight watts” meant. 😂

[@casketbier151]

@@joebobdavis1083 Thank you. We need more people like you. Again thank you for the concern and comment.

[@patrickio8084]

@@Jasonoid I live and work in my car so I'm in it for most of the day and all night every night. Unless it's really hot or cold, I don't idle my car overnight for climate-control purposes of using the AC or heater which would also allow me to power the fridge/freezer. I am considering the ICECO GO20 but did not want to wakeup to spoiled food. How many hours would you estimate or perhaps you've tested this, would the fridge stay below 40 degrees and the freezer below 32 degrees (yes I know that your answer(s) would be dependent on the ambient temperature)?

[@BigDukeX]

If I interrupted my Father-in-law as much as you did here, I would have a fat lip every time I saw him. Nice overview Pops.

[@Jasonoid]

Your father in law seems like a nice guy! Taking the video down from over an hour of footage to what it is in this video it seems like I am interrupting a lot. Sorry for the illusion.

[@ladweeb1798]

I could not help but watch the entire video but thanks for the time stamps so I can go back and review a specific unit before I buy. 👍

[@Jasonoid]

I have lots of newer videos about batteries and fridges on my channel to provide more info for running fridges! Thanks for checking it out, hope you enjoy my channel!

[@ladweeb1798]

@@Jasonoid Thank you! Just subscribed.

[@n1uno1965]

Very interesting comparisons! Thanks for sharing!

[@Jasonoid]

You bet!

[@phyllisindallas]

Awesome review. Your dad-in-law is pretty cute. Is he married?

[@Jasonoid]

He's married haha, thanks for watching!

[@phyllisindallas]

@@Jasonoid Oh bummer, erm, I mean, good for him! :-D

[@jadedjay7861]

#thirsty #desperate

[@icanhearyoucanyouhearme9164]

Bob Vance, Vance refrigeration.

[@Jasonoid]

Gotta love the Office! Thanks for watching!

[@henrycolestage7650]

I have a 35L Engle that has been used in some of the toughest off road conditions in the world. It is a Euro spec 12/220v model and I love it. It has been moved through a few different vehicles over time and I have always hard wired it into the vehicle. Engle has a cord just for that. It has never, ever let me down. I'm currently in the process of building an off road expedition trailer to drag around Africa for a year. The plan is to put a large, 60L -ish, dual zone fridge in that and the smaller Engle in the Land Rover Defender. That way I have a cold box in the truck for lunch, cold beers, etc for day trips and weekend getaways. Big box in the trailer for full time living use. Dual zone is important to me as ice is a requirement for gin and tonic sundowners ;-) I'm most likely going to go for the SnoMaster for my trailer. The only downside to using two fridges is that it is much less efficient than one very large fridge. Enjoyed the video. Many thanks!

[@Jasonoid]

Thanks for sharing your experience. I agree that having two separate fridges is much less efficient than one larger one. Have a great expedition and good luck building up your rig, sounds awesome!

[@casianosd]

I'd love to see a video or a DIY on that power box. Great stuff guys!

[@Jasonoid]

Coming soon!

[@Jasonoid]

Video is live on my channel, I also have a budget power box video coming soon

[@drew8642]

Glad I found this because it helps to select the best unit for ones needs especially since they can cost over $1,000.

[@Jasonoid]

Happy to help provide a few options for fellow youtubers!

[@prestigeprestiges8311]

I got a good chuckle at the very beginning. ONE of these is mine😁

[@martyw2199]

Awesome video. Now I need to go figure out which one to buy

[@bernadettetibazi7893]

OMG! For sure your are the fridge Guy! Thanks so much!