Best Portable Mini Fridges – Looking for a small and portable fridge to take on the go? There are many different options on the market, so it can be tough to decide which one is right for you. To help make your decision easier, we’ve compiled a list of the best portable mini fridges currently available.
Whether you need a fridge for your office, dorm room, or home bar, we have you covered! Keep reading to learn more.
Features To Look For in Portable Mini Fridges
When you are looking for the best portable mini fridge, there are some important features to look for. Here is a list of the most important features to consider:
Size
When it comes to portable mini-fridges, size is an important consideration. Some models are designed to be compact and lightweight, making them easy to transport. Others are larger, with more capacity for storing food and drinks.
If you’re planning on using your mini-fridge for extended periods, then size may be a key factor in your decision-making process. However, keep in mind that larger fridges will use more energy and may require a dedicated power source.
For frequent travelers, a smaller and more energy-efficient model may be the best option. Ultimately, the size of the portable mini fridge that you choose should be based on your specific needs and preferences.
Capacity
Capacity is one of the key considerations when purchasing a portable mini-fridge. The capacity of a fridge will determine how much food or drink can be stored inside. Most portable mini fridges have a capacity of around 4 liters, although larger models are available. It is important to choose a fridge with an appropriate capacity for your needs.
If you only need to store a small amount of food or drink, then a smaller fridge will be sufficient. However, if you need to store larger quantities, then you will need to choose a larger model. Portable mini-fridges are an excellent way to keep food and drink cool while on the go.
They are perfect for taking on picnics or long journeys, and their compact size means that they can be stored easily in the car or caravan. With so many different models to choose from, it is easy to find the perfect portable mini fridge for your needs.
Temperature Settings
There are generally two temperature settings for portable mini-fridges, which are “off” and “on.” The “off” setting is usually used to conserve battery power or to prevent the fridge from getting too cold. The “on” setting should be used when you need to actively cool something down.
The specific temperatures will vary depending on the model of the fridge, but they are typically in the range of 40-60 degrees Fahrenheit. Some fridges also have a “warm” setting, which is used to keep food warm instead of cool. In general, it is best to use the lowest possible setting that will still achieve your desired results to save energy.
Power Source
The portable mini fridge is a great way to keep your food and drinks cold when you are on the go. However, you may be wondering what the best power source is for this handy appliance.
The good news is that there are a variety of options available, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs. One popular choice is to use a 12-volt battery, which is often used in cars and RVs. Another option is to use a 110-volt AC adapter, which can be plugged into any standard outlet.
You can also find solar-powered models, though they may not be as reliable in cloudy or shady areas. Ultimately, the best power source for your mini-fridge will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
Best Portable Mini Fridges Reviewed On This Guide
1. BODEGA 12 Volt Rechargeable Fridge
The lithium single-zone rechargeable fridge is the perfect way to keep your food and drinks cool while on the go. This fridge features a single-zone cooling system that allows you to set the temperature to your desired level, making it ideal for storing perishable items.
The fridge also has a built-in rechargeable battery that gives you the freedom to take it with you wherever you go, whether it’s tailgating, camping, or picnicking.
What Our Testers Say
As long as it plugged in, it keeps the temperature where I set it. When unplugged, it changes very fast. I’m a truck driver. Sometimes I need to unplug to run something else. Overall, I love it. And would recommend this to anyone traveling.
The sleek and compact design makes it easy to transport, while the sturdy construction ensures that your food and drinks will stay safe and cold.
What We Like
- Wheels and retractable handle friendly design
- USB Socket
- Anti-shaking for extreme off-road conditions
What We Don’t Like
- Price
2. Dometic Portable Fridge/Freezer
Looking for a top-quality fridge/freezer that you can take with you wherever you go? Look no further than the Dometic Portable fridge/freezer. This unit is perfect for camping, tailgating, or any time you need a compact, reliable fridge/freezer.
What Our Testers Say
Bottom line is this is a great electric cooler/portable refrigerator/freezer. It cools fast. It stays cold. It’s very quiet. I slept next to it in a tent and it was barely noticeable. It has a ton of space, more than enough for 2 people camping for 1 week. It was a treat to be able to open milk and hummus and veggies and deli meat put them back in and never have to worry about forgetting ice and finding them warm and floating in water. Every day you use it you save $10-15 on ice and probably $20 on food that doesn’t go to waste. At the end of my camping trip I put all the left over food, milk, eggs etc right back in my fridge at home. Also the iPhone app is great! It’s easy to set and check the temp and it warns you if you loose power or the temp goes up.
Got this to in our Overlanding built Tacoma. Due to COVID-19 we’ve only used it once out on a trip. But that one trip we did use it was great. No soggy food at the end of the trip, we felt comfortable eating our camping leftovers because we knew the food was kept at a consistent temperature. Really looking forward to using this more and more.
The Dometic Portable fridge/freezer features a durable design that can withstand the rigors of life on the road. It also has a spacious interior that can hold up to 60 cans of your favorite beverage. And with its built-in freezer, you can keep your food fresh and delicious.
What We Like
- CFX3 app allows temperature control via Bluetooth or WiFi
- 3-stage battery protection system prevents dead car battery or allows deep draw on dual batteries
- Powerful VMSO3 compressor cooling technology efficiently refrigerates and deep-freezes to –22°C
What We Don’t Like
- Expensive
3. Engel Portable Fridge-Freezer
The Engel Portable Fridge-Freezer is the perfect way to keep your food and drinks cold when you’re on the go. Whether you’re tailgating, camping, or just need a little extra space in your fridge, this portable fridge is perfect for any occasion. It features a compact design that makes it easy to take with you, while still providing plenty of space for all your food and drinks.
What Our Testers Say
’m not often one to bother with leaving reviews however we have owned an Engel fridge since the 70s and it doesn’t miss a beat. We recently purchased this model also for the extra room, and I could not be happier with it. Thanks to Engel for providing such reliable fridges.
The Engel Portable Fridge-Freezer also comes with a built-in freezer, so you can keep your ice cream and other frozen treats cold and fresh. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the outdoors without having to worry about your food or drinks getting warm.
What We Like
- DC Power Consumption: Variable from 0.5 – 3.6 AMPS
- Power: Built-in 240V AC/12V/24V DC
- On/off reed switch installed for the interior LED light
- Robust corner protectors & handles
- Larger lockable door latch for ease of access
- Stronger reinforced baskets
- Five years Warranty
What We Don’t Like
- Expensive
4. Setpower AJ40 Portable Freezer Fridge
Keep your cold drinks cold and your hot drinks hot with the Setpower AJ40 Portable Freezer Fridge. This durable and reliable unit can hold up to 18 cans of your favorite beverage and features two compartments for chilling or freezing your beverages.
What Our Testers Say
So far so good only had it for about 2 weeks.
I was skeptical on getting this but it’s way cheaper than a dometic.
I am a truck driver so usually ice packs I don’t keep my food very cold so I needed one of these but didn’t want to spend the money on a really nice one so I bought this one and got the three-year warranty just in case anything goes wrong with it I could just take it back so far it’s a good keeps my food and my drinks very cold I am very satisfied so far if you’re thinking about getting it just to make sure you get it with the warranty.
With its handy carrying handle, the TravelMate Fridge/Freezer is perfect for taking on the go, whether you’re headed to the beach, the park, or tailgating before the big game. Don’t be caught without your favorite drink again – pick up a TravelMate Fridge/Freezer today!
What We Like
- Cooling from 0℉-50℉
- Compatible with AC and DC power
- MAX & ECO Mode
- Battery Protection prevent the car battery for running down
- Work normally within 30° bumps
- 3 years warranty on compressor and 1 year for other parts
What We Don’t Like
- Noisy depending on the Surface
5. Kohree Portable Refrigerator Car Fridge Freezer
Looking for a fridge that can keep your food and drinks cold no matter where you go? Then check out the Kohree Portable Refrigerator Car Fridge Freezer. This fridge is perfect for those who love to camp, hike or spend time outdoors. It features a durable design that can withstand the elements, as well as a powerful cooling system that will keep your food and drinks cold for hours.
What Our Testers Say
Fill it with cans and plug it into a power outlet in the house before the trip. Takes about 4 hours to bring it down to 41 F. Left running overnight from a deep cycle battery that is charged by 200w solar and even with 4 hours of sun hardly drains the battery at all overnight in the middle of summer. Perfect for my off-grid cabin. I am super impressed with this unit. Highly recommend. If you place a blanket under it to add insulation will perform even better. Don’t cover vents of course. Would buy again in a heart beat.
Plus, it comes with a convenient carrying handle so you can take it with you wherever you go. So if you’re looking for a fridge that can go where you go, then the Kohree Portable Refrigerator Car Fridge Freezer is the perfect choice for you.
What We Like
- Dual Zone with LCD independent temp control
- Large capacity 53 Quart（50L）
- Powerful compressor 25 min to 32℉(0℃) (empty refrigerator)
- H/M/L Battery Protection
- Max/Eco Cooling Modes Choice
- 45db Low Noise
- 40 Degrees Anti-shake
- Small Nice Design： A drain plug for easy defrosting and cleaning, detachable handles with wrench needed for installation, etc.
- Home & Car Use： Support 12/24V DC and 100-240V AC, Solar Panel, Car Charger, Power Station, Wall Charger.
What We Don’t Like
- Inaccurate Temp at Times
Types of Portable Mini Fridges
Thermoelectric Portable Mini Fridges
Thermoelectric Portable Mini Fridges have become increasingly popular in recent years, as they offer a convenient and compact way to keep food and drinks cold while on the go.
Thermoelectric fridges work by using a heat pump to move heat from one side of the fridge to the other, cooling the contents in the process. This type of fridge is highly energy-efficient, as it does not require any moving parts or compressors.
Portable mini-fridges are available in a variety of sizes and styles, making it easy to find one that suits your needs. Whether you are looking for a small fridge for your office or a larger one for your RV, there is sure to be a portable mini fridge that is perfect for you.
Compressor Portable Mini Fridges
Compressor portable mini-fridges are becoming increasingly popular for several reasons.
- First, they are portable, making them ideal for use in small spaces.
- Second, they are more energy-efficient than traditional refrigerators, which can save money on your electric bill.
- Third, compressor portable mini-fridges come with a variety of features that make them more convenient to use, such as adjustable shelves and automatic defrost.
- Fourth, they are available in a wide range of designs to match any decor. If you are looking for a compact and efficient way to keep your food and drinks cold, a compressor portable mini fridge is a great option.
Absorption Portable Mini Fridges
Absorption portable mini-fridges are a great way to keep your food and drinks cold when you’re on the go. Absorption refrigeration works by using a heat source to vaporize a liquid, which then passes through a cooling element.
This process doesn’t require any moving parts, so absorption portable mini-fridges are extremely quiet. In addition, they’re very efficient, using less electricity than conventional models. If you’re looking for a portable fridge that won’t break the bank, an absorption mini fridge is a great option.
Beverage Coolers
Beverage coolers are small, portable refrigerators that can be used to store and keep beverages cold. They are often used by people who travel frequently or who live in small spaces where there is no room for a full-size fridge.
Beverage coolers come in a variety of sizes and shapes, and they can be powered by either AC or DC power. AC-powered beverage coolers typically have higher capacity than DC-powered coolers, but they are also more expensive.
Beverage coolers can be placed on a countertop or floor, and they typically have one or two shelves for storing cans or bottles. Some models also have wheels for easy transport. Beverage coolers are an ideal way to keep beverages cold without taking up a lot of space.
Common Questions About Portable Mini Fridges
How Does A Portable Refrigerator Work?
A portable refrigerator uses either a compressor or a thermoelectric cooler to keep food and other items cold. A compressor-type portable fridge uses the same technology as a standard kitchen refrigerator, while a thermoelectric cooler does not use refrigerant gases.
Both types of portable fridges are designed to be energy efficient and will cool items quickly. Most portable fridges will reach their optimal cooling temperature within an hour or two. Additionally, many portable fridges come with built-in thermostats so that you can set the fridge to your desired temperature.
How Long Does It Take For A Portable Fridge To Cool?
It can take up to 24 hours for a portable fridge to cool down to the desired temperature. If you need the fridge to cool faster, there are a few things you can do to help speed up the process:
- Make sure the fridge is in a cool, shaded area
- Plug it into an outlet that has been cooled by a power strip or extension cord with built-in fans
- Place a frozen water bottle or two inside the fridge
How Do You Power A Portable Refrigerator?
There are a few different ways that you can power a portable refrigerator. The most common way is to use a standard AC outlet. You can also use a car battery or solar panels if you’re going off the grid.
The best way to power a portable refrigerator is to use a standard AC outlet. You’ll need to make sure that the outlet is rated for the proper voltage and amperage, and that it’s properly grounded. If you’re not sure about any of this, it’s always best to consult with an electrician before plugging anything in.
You can also power a portable fridge using a car battery. This is ideal if you’re going to be using your fridge while traveling.
Can You Leave A Portable Fridge On All The Time?
Yes, you can leave a portable fridge on all the time. However, it’s important to note that doing so will increase the likelihood of your fridge malfunctioning. Portable fridges are not meant to be left on for extended periods, and doing so may shorten the lifespan of your fridge.
What Temperature Should My Portable Fridge Be?
In most cases, your portable fridge should be between 0°C and 4°C. This will help to keep your food fresh and prevent bacteria from growing. If you’re storing perishable items, such as meat or dairy, it’s best to keep them closer to 0°C. Non-perishable items can be stored at 4°C.
Which Portable Fridge Is Best?
There are a few things to consider when looking for the best portable fridge. The most important factors are size and power consumption.
Some portable fridge models are small and only suitable for cooling a single can of beer or soda. Other models are larger and can keep food cold for several days. It’s important to choose a model that is the right size for your needs.
Another important factor is power consumption. Some portable fridge models consume a lot of power, while others use very little power. It’s important to choose a model that doesn’t use too much energy, especially if you plan to use it while camping or boating.
What Is The Best Travel Fridge?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best travel fridge for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. However, we can narrow down the options to a few of the most popular travel fridges on the market.
One popular option is the Dometic CFX3 35 Fridge/Freezer. This fridge/freezer combo is a great option for those who need both refrigerated and frozen storage space while on the road. It features a compact design that makes it easy to store in your RV, car, or truck, and it comes with built-in handles and wheels for easy portability. The CFX3 also has an LCD panel that makes
How Does A Portable Fridge Work?
A portable fridge works by using a compressor to pump refrigerant gas around the fridge. This chills a set of coils inside the fridge, which in turn cools the contents.
The compressor is powered by either an AC adapter or batteries, depending on the model of the fridge. Some models also have a heating element to warm food or drinks.
How Much Electricity Does A Portable Refrigerator Use?
It depends on the size of the refrigerator and its power rating. A small, two-door refrigerator might use around 300 watts, while a larger model might use closer to 600 watts.
To save energy, it’s important to unplug a portable refrigerator when it’s not in use. And if you’re using a solar panel to power your refrigerator, make sure the panel is big enough to handle the appliance’s wattage rating.
Is A Camping Fridge Worth It?
Camping fridges are worth it for the convenience they offer. Not only do they keep food cold, but many models also have a freezer compartment that can be used to store ice or frozen food. This is a great feature to have when camping, as it allows you to cook meals and prepare snacks without having to worry about them going bad in the heat.
Another great thing about camping fridges is that they come in a variety of sizes, so you can choose one that’s best suited for your needs.
Final Thoughts on Portable Mini Fridges
So, there you have it! Our list of the best portable mini-fridges. Whether you’re looking for a small fridge to take on your next camping trip or need a compact model to keep in your office, we’ve got you covered. We hope this article has helped you find the perfect mini fridge for your needs. If not, be sure to check out our other refrigerator reviews for more options.
