Rating of the best car refrigerators 2021

A car refrigerator is an indispensable assistant for travelers and motorists. This compact unit keeps food fresh for a long time, so it is convenient to take on trips. Such a device will come in handy when hunting, fishing, or just in nature when you want to enjoy a cool drink.

The modern product market offers a wide range of car refrigerators; the models presented differ in purpose, operating principle and functionality.

According to the cooling method, the following types are distinguished:

• Thermoelectric.
• Compressor.
• Absorption.

What to look for when choosing:

• Size.
  There are units on sale, the height of which varies from 22 to 150 cm. The tallest models can accommodate water bottles and large-sized products.
• Volume.
  The average refrigerator for a passenger car has a volume of 20-30 liters, but in stores you can find units with a capacity of 50 liters or more.
• Temperature.
  Compressor models are considered the best option; they cool food faster, regardless of the air temperature in the car.
• Power.
  On average, this figure is 50 W, however, there are devices with a power of 100 W, in which products are cooled faster.
• Freeze function.
  Some models are capable of freezing food and storing it for a long time. They are more expensive, but the price difference is well justified.
• Type of transportation.
  Car refrigerators may have a carrying handle, strap, or wheels.

We present the rating of car refrigerators 2021. The best 16 models that were selected by our experts based on user reviews and ratings.

Which brand of car refrigerator is better to choose?

Every year the range is replenished with updated models from different suppliers, which differ from each other not only in quality, but also in price.

The list of the best manufacturers includes the following brands:

• Tesler is a company that produces household appliances aimed at Russian consumers. The products successfully compete with products from global brands. Products are presented in retail chains and online stores.
• Mobicool - the company offers a large selection of compressor coolers, freezers, and portable car refrigerators. The company was established in 1991, over the years it has managed to successfully conquer the market of Asia and the Far East.
• AVS is a Russian company that sells automotive electronics and accessories for cars. Its assortment includes more than 1000 items of goods. The equipment manufacturer is China.
• Starwind is a Russian trademark registered in 2008 that sells small household appliances. The products are aimed at the low and medium price segment, all products are completely Russified.
• Ezetil - the history of the German company dates back to 1953. It was then that the first cooler bag was invented. Today the company sells car refrigerators, portable freezers and cold storage batteries.
• Indel B - the products of the Italian company are known and are in great demand in all European countries. The main emphasis is on the quality of the products sold.
• Dometic is a Swedish company that produces air conditioners and refrigerators for cars, yachts, and boats. Since 1968, the company has been providing comfort to travelers. Vacuum cleaners and car refrigerators are made in China.
• Colku – the Chinese company’s assortment includes products for comfort while driving in trucks, cars and maritime transport. Products have been exported worldwide since 2006. The manufacturer also services and repairs its own products.
• Alpicool is a company from China that specializes in the production of mid-price compressor refrigerators. The company was founded in 1996, and literally two or three years later its products began to be sold all over the world. Car refrigerators of this brand are capable of operating with shaking and tilting up to 40 degrees.
• Camping is a Russian company that offers products for travel and outdoor recreation. Buyers are offered camping furniture, tents, picnic supplies, as well as car refrigerators.

FAQ

How does a car refrigerator work? This device is designed to operate from the car's network; usually it can be connected to the cigarette lighter. Of course, this takes a lot of energy, and therefore some models have the ability to connect to a regular household power supply.

What is the difference between a car cooler and an insulated bag? The latter does not have a cooling device. Instead, cold accumulators are used, and therefore the efficiency is much lower: the bag does not lower the air temperature, but only maintains it.

Rating of car refrigerators

The TOP 16 included the best car refrigerators that received positive reviews from users based on the testing results of each model. Before adding a device to the 2021 rating, experts paid attention to the following indicators:

• Volume. Small, medium and large car refrigerators are available for sale;
• Size. The high chamber accommodates large containers with liquid;
• Nutrition. Electric, gas and universal appliances available;
• Power. The degree of cooling and power consumption depend on the power;
• Temperature. The minimum cooling temperature of the refrigerator and freezer compartments is indicated;
• Material. The body is made of plastic or metal;
• Refrigerant. Freon and ammonia are used for cooling.
• Type of transportation. Refrigeration units come in manual, belt and wheeled types.

Depending on the principle of operation, a good auto-refrigerator can be compressor, absorption, thermoelectric, or isothermal. Some cool and freeze food in a short time, while others produce cold over a longer period.

The best mirror DVRs

Types of auto-refrigerators by operating principle

Thermoelectric car refrigerators

Cold accumulators.
Added to a portable refrigerator. Due to their relatively low price, compactness and light weight, thermoelectric auto-refrigerators are quite common and enjoy some popularity. The principle of their operation is based on the Peltier effect - when an electric current passes through a thermal battery consisting of two metal plates, one of the plates is heated while the second is cooled. In other words, cooling is carried out due to the release of heat, which is then dissipated using a fan. Also, the design of a thermoelectric auto-refrigerator may provide the possibility of an inverted or reverse mode - that is, heating the contents of the refrigerator chamber, which is sometimes very useful, for example, in the cold season.

The disadvantages of thermoelectric type auto-refrigerators are rather slow cooling along with the dependence of cooling on external temperature, the difference with which cannot be more than 30°C. This creates certain inconveniences; for example, it is recommended to cool food at home in advance, as well as use additional cold accumulators, say, dry ice.

Compressor car refrigerators

The compressor of car refrigerators, unlike compact refrigerators of other types, provides cooling and even freezing regardless of the external temperature.
In essence, compressor auto-refrigerators are a more mobile version of conventional household refrigerators. Their work is based on the use of a cycle of evaporation and condensation of a refrigerant maintained by a compressor, which is usually freon.

The cooling speed of compressor-type refrigerators is quite high, they are quite economical and can provide a wide temperature range that does not depend on the ambient temperature; deep freezing is also possible.

The model range includes both portable and built-in, single- and double-chamber varieties. As disadvantages, we can note a somewhat high price, which is compensated, however, by fairly economical energy consumption, and a slightly greater weight in comparison with other types of car refrigerators.

The best thermoelectric car refrigerators

Such models have a simple design. Under the base of the case there is a built-in fan, which is powered by a battery, due to which warm air does not leak into the chamber and the products remain chilled for a long time. You should not expect low temperatures from such refrigerators, since they no longer serve the purpose of cooling, but rather of preserving the cold. But to keep drinks chilled and food fresh, such parameters are sufficient.

Ezetil E28

The thermoelectric car refrigerator with a volume of 29 liters is capable of operating from the car’s on-board 12 V network. The lid has a special compartment where the power cord and plug are stored. In a vertical position, the chamber can accommodate bottles up to 1.5 liters. During transportation, the lid is securely locked with a special transport handle. In addition to the fan, the camera uses an additional cooling system, which allows you to maintain the temperature within 20 degrees. The dimensions of the refrigerator are 36.5 x 28.5 x 44.5 cm.

Advantages

• Effectively maintains temperature;
• Spacious capacity;
• High quality construction;
• Compressor missing.

Flaws

• Bulky design;
• Short wire;
• It is noticeably noisy.

This simple, convenient device allows you to store food and drinks for a long time. Since it does not cool, but only maintains the temperature, it is recommended to place pre-frozen food in the chamber. Additionally, it is worth buying a cold accumulator. The unit should be placed in the shade, away from sunlight.

Avs CC-27WBC

The thermoelectric auto-refrigerator Avs CC 27WBC is suitable for use in cars, boats, trucks, in the countryside and in nature. The installation works both from a 12 or 24 V cigarette lighter, and from a 220 V household network. This is a very spacious model with a volume of 27 liters. For convenience, there is an LED display with touch control. Additionally, a USB port was placed on the front side, allowing you to charge gadgets. The chamber cools down to -2 degrees, and can also heat food up to +65. External and internal fans allow you to quickly reduce the temperature.

Advantages

• Large capacity;
• Convenient to carry;
• Universal nutrition;
• Fast cooling.

Flaws

• Inconvenient buckle on the carrying belt;
• Design vulnerability.

This is the most spacious refrigerator among similar models. The dimensions of the device are 48x38.5x35 cm. Thanks to its efficient operation, this model is in demand.

Mobicool G30 AC/DC

The Mobicool car refrigerator is very popular due to the combination of good quality, affordable price and unusual design. The bright cover is made in the shape of a car hood. It has two built-in fans that lower the temperature by 20 degrees relative to the environment. The chamber holds 29 liters and weighs only 4.3 kg. The dimensions of the device are 44.5x39.6x29.6 cm. Power is supplied from a 12 V cigarette lighter and a 220 V household network. The kit includes a cord and an AC adapter. There is also a USB connector for charging external devices.

Advantages

• Spacious camera;
• Cools well and maintains temperature;
• Reasonable price;
• Housing made of high quality plastic.

Flaws

• Noisy fan operation.

When operating from a home network, the noise is noticeably reduced. ECO mode allows you to save up to 70% power. This model will be a useful purchase for motorists and travel enthusiasts.

Camping World Unicool

A 25-liter car refrigerator can not only cool by 18-23 degrees relative to the ambient temperature. It also heats up to +60 degrees. There is a small lever to select the mode. If you do not use a cold accumulator, the chamber will fit six 1.5 liter bottles. The lid fits tightly due to the latches. It can only be opened after the handle is completely lowered. If necessary, the cover can be completely removed. There is a hole at the top for storing the cord. The kit includes a convenient partition for separating products. The dimensions of the device are 40.6x30.4x45 cm. The refrigerator weighs 4.36 kg.

Advantages

• Compact device;
• Possibility of cooling and heating;
• A light weight;
• Spacious camera.

Flaws

• Wobbly cord cover.

To ensure the product lasts a long time, it is important not to place anything on top of the refrigerator. Access to the fan must be free. Despite the fact that the device is made in China, it fully copes with its functions.

How to choose a car refrigerator?

For your information! When deciding to purchase a car refrigerator, you should pay attention to such technical parameters as:

• Type of equipment. Manufacturers offer compressor, thermoelectric and absorption models of refrigerators for purchase. All of them do an excellent job of their tasks, but have different costs and mechanisms of action;
• volume. The average volume of devices for passenger cars is 20-25 liters. However, in many specialized stores you can find devices designed for 40-50 liters;
• temperature regime. The temperature inside the unit directly depends on the ambient temperature. Only compressor models are autonomous. In addition, absorption and thermoelectric refrigerators cool much more slowly;
• the presence of a freezing function. Allows you to quickly freeze food and store it for a long period of time. Models with this option are more expensive, but fully justify their price;
• power consumption. The higher this indicator, the faster the food will cool and the fewer interruptions in operation the device will require. The power can reach 100 W, but most often you can find equipment with an indicator of 45-50 W;
• dimensions of the structure. Not every refrigerator model can fit into a small car. That is why before you go to buy the device, you should decide on the dimensions.

The best absorption auto-refrigerators

These car refrigerators use an ammonia-water solution to operate. Power is supplied through the on-board and household network. The main advantage of these models is that they can use gas or liquid fuel instead of electricity, but they cannot be tilted during operation. The devices weigh a lot and are expensive. Another negative factor is the presence of constant consumables.

Camping World Unicool

Compact, portable unit holds 42 liters. The car refrigerator cools by 25 degrees and maintains the desired temperature for a long time. For power use a battery, a 220 V household network or a gas cylinder with butane or propane. One 5-liter cylinder is enough for a week of continuous operation. Additionally, the unit can heat up. This allows you to transport hot food. There are handles on the side for carrying. The cover and body are made of aluminum. Dimensions are 50x49x44.7 cm. The device weighs 21 kg. The compressor can be tilted up to a maximum of 30 degrees.

Advantages

• Spacious camera;
• Economical fuel consumption;
• Battery operation;
• Possibility of heating.

Flaws

• Heavy weight.

This model is often chosen by hunters and fishermen to store their catch and trophies. This is due to the long battery life on gas. The high-quality durable case does not scratch.

Dometic Combicool ACX 35

The most compact absorption refrigerator with good performance. It is capable of cooling up to 30 degrees relative to the environment. This figure is considered very high. Lightweight and durable body made of aluminum. The device weighs only 14 kg. For power supply, a 12 and 220 V network or gas equipment is used. The refrigerator compartment holds 31 liters. The dimensions of the device are 50x44.3x44 cm. This model will easily fit into any trunk.

Advantages

• Light weight;
• Wide temperature range;
• Simple controls.

Flaws

• Small volume;
• High price.

Products are cooled quickly and deeply. If there is a lack of volume, it is recommended to pay attention to a similar older model from this company with a larger capacity.

Rating of the TOP 13 best car refrigerators

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Which car refrigerator is better to buy?

Before you buy a refrigerator for your car, you need to decide what the purpose of its use will be. For a small number of people, a simple cooler bag that can hold sandwiches and soft drinks will do. When traveling with the whole family, it is better to use a spacious compressor refrigerator. If long-term cooling is required in autonomous mode, absorption-type models are chosen, but it should be remembered that they should absolutely not be tilted.

It is also important to consider travel time. The dimensions of the device depend on the size of the trunk or interior. Motorists most often choose thermoelectric models. They can be powered by a cigarette lighter, maintain a low temperature for a long time and do not contain refrigerants.

Based on the results of assessing the characteristics, experts identify several of the best auto-refrigerators:

• Among the budget models, the Starwind CB-112 comes out on top. The bag is convenient for carrying and storing food;
• The Alpicool ACS-40 compressor auto-refrigerator can easily be called the best in its category: convenient, spacious, multifunctional;
• Among thermoelectric refrigerators, Mobicool G30 AC/DC is in great demand. The model has a bright design and weighs little;
• Among the absorption models, Dometic Combicool ACX performed well. It cools food quickly and fits into any machine.

The rating presented the best car refrigerators of various types. Each model is convenient in its own way, so deciding which car refrigerator is best to buy is based on price, size, chamber volume, operating time and cooling depth, and additional functions for heating food will be a pleasant bonus. Consideration of the main characteristics of each model will allow you to make the right choice and buy a durable device for storing food.

Popular models

To choose the best device, experts advise you to familiarize yourself with the rating of popular car refrigerator models.

It contains the best-selling devices from trusted brands specializing in the development of functional electronics.

Compressor type

Compressor-type devices operate on the principle of traditional refrigerator models.

You should know! They have low thermal inertia, due to which loaded products do not require pre-cooling.

The maintained temperature is stable and lasts a long time, so you don’t have to worry about the safety of your food.

TOP-3 rating of the best models in this category in terms of price and quality ratio.

Indel B TB41A

A compact device from an Italian manufacturer, designed to become a faithful companion on long trips.

A spacious portable refrigerator with two chambers, which will give the user the opportunity to enjoy their favorite drinks and foods in any climate and at any time of the day.

The unit is equipped with a convenient retractable basket, ultra-ergonomic handles for comfortable transportation, as well as a power cable of optimal length.

Specifications:

• volume – 41 l;
• number of cameras – 2;
• freezing function – yes;
• minimum temperature – -18 °C;
• maximum temperature – 5 °C;
• power consumption – 45 W.

Advantages

• presence of a digital thermostat;
• intuitive controls;
• convenient storage of bottles in a vertical position;
• automatic maintenance of user-specified temperature;
• bright interior lighting.

Flaws

• there is no cold accumulation system;
• The kit does not include a mount for fixed installation;
• lack of an additional cup holder.

Mobicool B40 AC/DC Hybrid

An easy-to-use car refrigerator, recognized as one of the best on the domestic market.

Hybrid single-chamber equipment with a compressor cooling method, ideal for a small car.

The design attracts attention with its compactness, laconic design and spaciousness.

There are convenient carrying handles and a lid with a special rubber seal and a reliable magnetic clasp.

Specifications:

• volume – 40 l;
• number of cameras – 1;
• freezing function – yes;
• minimum temperature – -15 °C;
• maximum temperature – 5 °C;
• power consumption – 40 W.

Advantages

• simple design;
• compact wire storage;
• the ability to place bottles in a vertical position;
• optimal equipment power indicator;
• high quality materials and workmanship.

Flaws

• only one compartment;
• lack of a drain plug to eliminate condensation;
• increased level of sound.

Indel B TB2001

A well-designed device that combines innovative technology and attractive design.

A miniature car refrigerator that will be an excellent assistant on a long journey for people who prefer to travel in comfort.

The ergonomic gadget can operate in freezing mode and features low power consumption.

A distinctive feature of the device is its versatility - it is suitable not only for installation in passenger cars, but also for placement in cargo and water vehicles.

Specifications:

• volume – 26 l;
• number of cameras – 1;
• freezing function – yes;
• minimum temperature – -12 °C;
• maximum temperature – 5 °C;
• power consumption – 42 W.

Advantages

• versatility of use;
• light weight and size;
• excellent cooling properties;
• good interior lighting;
• informative operating instructions.

Flaws

• length of electrical wire;
• noisy work;
• the price is a little high.

Inexpensive thermoelectric containers

Budget thermoelectric auto-refrigerators do not have a compressor, heater or refrigerant.

Stay up to date! They are absolutely safe to use, environmentally friendly and operate with a low sound level, which especially attracts buyers.

The device can operate for both cooling and heating - this makes it universal in use and significantly expands its capabilities.

The best inexpensive models according to customer reviews and ratings.

AVS CC-24NB

An improved model with expanded functionality for comfortable use.

Presented in a shock-resistant plastic case, this electric device is from a budget price category, with which it is easy and convenient to go on trips.

The design is modest in size and light in weight, but can accommodate a sufficient amount of provisions.

Reliability, simplicity, convenience - the model will be appreciated by every user.

Specifications:

• volume – 24 l;
• number of cameras – 1;
• freezing function – yes;
• minimum temperature – 5 °C;
• maximum temperature – 10 °C;
• power consumption – 40 W.

Advantages

• acceptable level of sound;
• low cost of the device;
• the presence of handles for carrying;
• no need for special maintenance;
• keep warm function.

Flaws

• short power cable;
• the device must be cleaned periodically;
• easily contaminated housing.

FIRST AUSTRIA FA-5170-1

A multifunctional refrigerator that avid motorists will definitely enjoy.

A portable vehicle device designed for placement in cars, watercraft and cargo vehicles.

The device has a detailed system of protection against moisture accumulation inside.

Therefore, the owner does not have to worry about the quality and freshness of the products.

Specifications:

• volume – 25 l;
• number of cameras – 1;
• freezing function - no;
• minimum temperature – 5 °C;
• maximum temperature – 18 °C;
• power consumption – 58 W.

Advantages

• rapid cooling of products;
• unobtrusive modern design;
• capacity;
• separate compartment for the network cable;
• small handles for easy transportation.

Flaws

• ineffective operation in eco mode;
• high electricity consumption;
• There is no freezing function.

AVS CC-22WA

A high-end gadget with high technical characteristics.

A small but powerful thermoelectric cooling device that can keep food in perfect condition at high ambient temperatures.

The unit does not require special maintenance, is easy to clean from dirt and has a long warranty period, which indicates its reliability and durability.

Specifications:

• volume – 22 l;
• number of cameras – 1;
• freezing function - no;
• minimum temperature – -2 °C;
• maximum temperature – 12 °C;
• power consumption – 80 W.

Advantages

• ergonomic handles;
• attractive appearance;
• automatic saving of the set temperature;
• built-in monitoring of the condition of the car battery;
• presence of a small display.

Flaws

• increased noise level;
• there is no freezing function;
• The cable may not be long enough.

DOMETIC TB 15

A nice unit from the mid-price category, designed for long-term and uninterrupted operation.

Stylish thermoelectric device with heating function, designed specifically for storing drink bottles.

The device receives power from a standard 12-volt cigarette lighter; it is convenient to keep it at hand, placing it on the front passenger seat.

The main thing is not to forget to secure the device with a seat belt.

Specifications:

• volume – 15 l;
• number of cameras – 1;
• freezing function - no;
• minimum temperature – 5 °C;
• maximum temperature – 12 °C;
• power consumption – 45 W.

Advantages

• optimal functionality;
• high quality materials;
• efficient operation in heating mode;
• long warranty period;
• affordable price.

Flaws

• small internal volume;
• specific plastic smell;
• uninformative instruction manual.

Thermoelectric bags

Mobicool MB32 DC

A universal model with a number of convenient additions, made of high quality materials.

A successful electric device with a capacity of 32 liters, equipped with an adjustable shoulder strap and strong handles for transportation.

The bag is perfect for users with an active lifestyle, as it has a highly durable outer layer made of jacquard fabric.

The internal foil layer improves the thermal insulation properties.

Specifications:

• volume – 32 l;
• number of cameras – 1;
• freezing function - no;
• minimum temperature – 5 °C;
• maximum temperature – 15 °C;
• power consumption – 35 W.

Advantages

• External pockets for organized storage;
• easy access to the refrigerator compartment;
• well thought out execution;
• shoulder strap for comfortable wearing;
• optimal power level.

Flaws

• quite heavy weight;
• the fabric gets dirty quickly;
• noise during operation.

Mystery MTH-21B

Presentable thermoelectric car refrigerator with wide functionality at an affordable price.

Electric device made of dense high-quality polyethylene foam, carrying handles and a removable, adjustable shoulder strap.

The equipment operates in cooling mode, has modest dimensions and a simple design.

Buyers cite the cost of the design as a pleasant feature.

Specifications:

• volume – 21 l;
• number of cameras – 1;
• freezing function - no;
• minimum temperature – 5 °C;
• maximum temperature – 14 °C;
• power consumption – 65 W.

Advantages

• fast cooling process of drinks and food;
• durable materials;
• reasonable cost of the device;
• ease of transportation;
• high performance.

Flaws

• the camera is not equipped with backlight;
• the device does not operate in freezing mode;
• short time of maintaining temperature in offline mode.

DOMETIC TF 14

A top-end device, characterized by its compact size and ultra-ergonomics.

Car thermoelectric bag with a capacity of 14 liters, equipped with external pockets in which you can store cutlery and paper napkins.

The model stands out with its laconic design, so it will harmoniously fit into the interior of absolutely any car.

Specifications:

• volume – 14 l;
• number of cameras – 1;
• freezing function - no;
• minimum temperature – 5 °C;
• maximum temperature – 14 °C;
• power consumption – 12 W.

Advantages

• shoulder strap included;
• simple design;
• power supply from standard cigarette lighter;
• versatility of use;
• the cable is of sufficient length.

Flaws

• easily contaminated material;
• work with high noise levels;
• the price is a little high.

Absorption type

Note! Absorption-type devices are considered the most economical among car refrigerators.

Such units are more expensive than simplified models, but they do not have strict requirements for the power source, do not create unnecessary noise during operation and are able to maintain a temperature 30 degrees lower than the ambient temperature.

Colku XC-42G (42l) 12/220V gas

A modern device with which you don’t need to think about how best to store food.

A trendy model housed in a high-strength aluminum case.

The spacious device is suitable for long trips into nature, fishing, and will also become an indispensable assistant when transporting perishable products.

Experts say that a feature of the device is its long battery life on gas – 6-8 days, which is especially important for long stays far from civilization.

Specifications:

• volume – 42 l;
• number of cameras – 1;
• freezing function – yes;
• minimum temperature – -12 °C;
• maximum temperature – 5 °C;
• power consumption – 90 W.

Advantages

• instant cooling of loaded products;
• intuitive controls;
• ergonomic design;
• spacious chamber;
• Convenient storage of bottles in a vertical position.

Flaws

• high cost of equipment;
• work with an increased level of sound;
• Small scratches appear on the body.

Dometic RM 8500

An elegant device with all the necessary options for comfortable use.

Absorption device with a spacious, easily removable freezer compartment, equipped with bright internal lighting.

The model is complemented by a convenient electronic control panel, so working with the equipment will be easier than ever.

The unit combines compactness, ease of operation and pleasant appearance, becoming one of the best-selling units on the modern market.

Specifications:

• volume – 106 l;
• number of cameras – 2;
• freezing function – yes;
• minimum temperature – -12 °C;
• maximum temperature – 7 °C;
• power consumption – 135 W.

Advantages

• safety of use;
• opening with light pressure;
• absolutely silent operation;
• high strength stainless steel housing;
• thoughtful system of adjustable shelves.

Flaws

• The cable length may not be enough;
• the cost of the gadget is slightly higher than other models;
• The device must be cleaned regularly.

CAMPING WORLD Unicool DeLuxe 42L

An electrogas device capable of quickly cooling large quantities of loaded products.

Absorption container-refrigerator, equipped with a long power cord, horizon level indicator and electricity consumption.

Additional options include battery monitoring.

In offline mode, the equipment can operate continuously for 7-9 days.

Specifications:

• volume – 42 l;
• number of cameras – 1;
• freezing function - no;
• minimum temperature – 5 °C;
• maximum temperature – 18 °C;
• power consumption – 70 W.

Advantages

• ease of transportation;
• pleasant appearance;
• almost silent operation;
• the device does not require special care;
• long electrical wire.

Flaws

• large weight and size;
• inconvenient storage of the network cable;
• overpriced.

Criterias of choice

Depending on the device, it is customary to divide car refrigerators into the following four types:

1. Cooler bags.
2. Thermoelectric.
3. Compression (compressor).
4. Absorption.

Cooler bags and thermal boxes. Cooler bags are the technically simplest type of portable refrigerator, designed to maintain temperature conditions for a certain time. Typically, a bag is made of two layers of dense synthetic fabric, between which there is thermal insulation material. A type of cooler bag is a thermobox (thermal container). It is an insulated container with double plastic walls and thermal insulation material between them. Since bags and thermal boxes are designed solely to minimize temperature changes, food should be placed in them pre-chilled (frozen, if possible). The effectiveness of storing food in a cooler bag is up to 12 hours (depending on the ambient temperature and the degree of pre-cooling of the food), and in a thermal box – up to a day. The fact is that special frozen briquettes of saline solution can be placed in additional compartments in the thermal container, which extend the storage time at low temperatures. It should be noted that both bags and insulated containers are capable of maintaining not only low, but also high temperatures. In this case, the thermal briquettes immersed inside are preheated.

Thermoelectric auto-refrigerators. This is perhaps the most popular type of car refrigerator among motorists. Their operating principle is based on the Peltier effect - a change in temperature in a conductive layer located between two semiconductors with different characteristics under the influence of an electric current. In a simplified way, the operation diagram of a thermoelement looks like this: one of its surfaces (the one that heats up) “takes” thermal energy from the other (the one that cools). If you also forcibly remove heat from the heating surface, the cooling process of the other surface will occur faster. This principle is widely used in thermoelectric auto-refrigerators, one of the surfaces of which is equipped with a fan. The refrigerator itself is made in the form of a plastic container powered by a cigarette lighter. Such auto-refrigerators tolerate vibrations and an inclined position when the vehicle moves over uneven surfaces. In addition, they do not contain refrigerants and are therefore environmentally friendly.

Compression (compressor) auto-refrigerators. The principle of operation of the well-known compression refrigerator is quite simple: a liquid refrigerant (freon) circulates in its system, which, with a sharp decrease in pressure, begins to boil (cooling to -23 ° C and absorbing heat), and at high pressure it condenses into liquid, giving off heat to environment. The first cycle occurs in the evaporator, and the second in the condenser. To ensure a continuous process, freon vapor is sucked in, compressed and supplied to the condenser by a mechanical compressor. And in order to maintain the pressure difference in the evaporator and condenser, a control valve is installed between them. The efficiency of a compression refrigerator in terms of creating and maintaining temperature conditions is extremely high: it can ensure freezing of food down to a temperature of -18°C.

Absorption auto-refrigerators. The principle of operation of an absorption refrigerator is the same as a compression refrigerator. Only the role of a compressor in it is played by the so-called heat pump: a set of containers containing refrigerant (ammonia) and another gas (hydrogen). A continuous cooling cycle is provided by heating an aqueous ammonia solution. Heating can be carried out either from the mains (from a 12V car cigarette lighter or a 220V household outlet), or autonomously - from a small gas cylinder. An additional advantage of an absorption auto-refrigerator over a compression one is the absence of moving mechanical parts. But tilting when operating this type of refrigerator is practically unacceptable and for this reason they are used mainly on large long-distance trucks operating on well-paved roads.

Device volume. There is a simple rule: you need 5 liters per person. Therefore, calculating the minimum volume is usually very simple. But not always: the nature of the trips also makes adjustments. If you often travel long distances from populated areas with shops and cafes, then you can choose a larger model, at the rate of 7-10 liters per person. If long trips are not expected, then you can not take a car refrigerator at all, but buy an insulated bag.

Case material. The main criteria for choosing are ease of washing and scratch resistance. Most often you have to choose between plastic, aluminum, steel and fiberglass. Steel is the most resistant to damage, but modern plastic also shows sufficient resistance - although not from every manufacturer.

Power cord length. Manufacturers often save on the length of the power cord - and the benefits are small, but the inconvenience due to a short cord can be considerable. Of course, it all depends on the circumstances, and for some this is not critical, but in most cases it is better to select models with a cord of 2 meters or longer.