Serial boat owner Drew Maglio picks out 7 of the best portable refrigerators available right now and explains what features to look out for…

As opposed to passive coolers which rely on dry ice blocks, chemical cooling agents, or old fashioned ice cubes and a well insulated container to keep things cold, portable refrigerators use 12/24DC and/or 115/220V AC electricity to preserve contents.

There are two basic variations of portable refrigerators, which include thermoelectric coolers using the Peltier Cooling Method (i.e. a cold plate to remove heat and decrease ambient temperatures), and compressor-driven systems that are more properly called portable refrigerators.

If you missed the recent guide to the best boat coolers, it’s worth reading that piece first, as there are a lot of impressive options to consider before you consider buying one of the best portable refrigerators.

The Dometic CFX range includes some of the most feature-rich portable refrigerators on the market right now

Compared to thermoelectric coolers, compressor-driven systems are vastly superior at both cooling efficiency and capacity — albeit at a far greater cost of entry.

While compressor-driven systems can typically maintain temperatures set via thermostatic control, thermoelectric coolers can typically only maintain temperatures of 40-50 degrees F below ambient air temperature.

For this reason thermoelectric coolers are only advisable in temperate climates where daytime temperatures do not exceed 75-80F (24-26C)

With the limitations inherent in thermoelectric cooling, it is not advisable to invest too large a sum into a thermoelectric cooler.

Similarly, you should temper your expectations and realize that a thermoelectric cooler only works as a “refrigerator” with daytime ambient temperatures of 75 degrees or below.

Furthermore, a good practice when using a thermoelectric cooler is to place a large block of ice in the cooler before running the unit, as thermoelectric coolers do not cool down as quickly as compressor-driven systems.

With these limitations in mind, the following are some product recommendations.

This thermoelectric cooler by Halfords is a relatively inexpensive and compact option for usage as an active cooler in a temperate and moderate climate.

Being able to run off DC and AC power with a pull-out handle and integrated wheels, this cooler is a great option for those that need a cheap, compact, and no-frills cooling solution.

Capacity: 40L Power: 12V/24V/Mains Dimensions: 435 x 550 x 370mm Weight: 8.4kg

Buy it now from Halfords

This thermoelectric cooler by Coleman is a versatile and affordable option for those looking for a multi-faceted portable refrigerator.

Suitable for use either horizontally or vertically, this unit could even be permanently utilized or mounted as a mini-fridge if ambient air temperatures are moderate enough.

This portable refrigerator is popular with truckers, RVers, and boaters alike.

Capacity: 40L Power: 12V Dimensions: 450 x 410 x 610mm Weight: 8.16kg

Buy it now from Amazon

As opposed to the thermoelectric coolers above, compressor-driven systems are superior portable refrigerators in nearly every way—albeit at a substantially greater cost of entry.

There is one particular downside however that shoppers should know about: because compressor-driven portable refrigerators rely on a relatively large and heavy compressor to evacuate heat, they tend to be substantially larger in terms of dimensions, as well as heavier for a given capacity, when compared to thermoelectric coolers.

With that in mind, here are our recommendations for compressor-driven portable refrigerators.

This portable refrigerator by Norcold has been a staple among boaters and sailors alike for years due to its affordable price, cooling efficiency, compact footprint, and brand recognition.

While other options on this list have likely passed it by in terms of both quality and value, this unit remains a good buy.

Capacity: 45L Power: 12V/24V/120V Dimensions: 430 x 400 x 648mm Weight: 20kg

Buy it now from West Marine

This portable refrigerator by Bodega is a true wild card on this list as it is the most dynamic and portable option—all at an incredibly affordable price of entry.

Featuring wheels and a robust handle, this unit is truly meant to be transported during use and is therefore suitable for weekend boaters.

Things like an integrated cutting board, dual cooling zones, and the ability to be controlled via a smartphone app, make this unit the most functional and ergonomic portable refrigerator on this list.

Capacity: 36L Power: 12V Dimensions: 368 x 360 x 724mm Weight: 17kg

Buy it now on Amazon (US)

Buy it now on Amazon (UK)

For the budget-conscious, this unit by Kohree cannot be beaten, which is why it is an Amazon best-seller.

Being compact and compatible with both AC and DC power, this unit is a quality all-rounder without the big name brand tax.

Capacity: 25L Power: 12V Dimensions: 350 x 320 x 570mm Weight: 12.4kg

Buy it now on Amazon

This portable refrigerator by Dometic is the highest of the high-end solutions on this list—albeit with a price to match the renowned Dometic name.

Compared to previous generations of Dometic portable refrigerators, the new CFX line is stylish with a rugged appearance, which means it can double as a seat.

With marine-rated components and integrated battery-saving features, this portable refrigerator is likely to be the best performing and longest lived option in the corrosive marine environment.

Cruising boaters without built-in refrigeration systems often find ways to permanently install Dometic units like the one pictured above onto their vessels, which speaks volumes to the trust they have in the brand.]

Capacity: 32L Power: 24V Dimensions: 398 x 407 x 694mm Weight: 16.78kg

Buy it now on Amazon (32L)

Buy it now on West Marine (45QT)

Buy it now on West Marine (55QT)

Best portable refrigerator for fishing

One more bonus option for the fisherman among us, there is a portable livewell/cooler offered by Engel that is well worth a closer look…

Capacity: 18L Power: 12V Dimensions: 422 x 297 x 343mm Weight: 3.29kg

Buy it now from Amazon

Didn’t find what you’re looking for? Head to Amazon’s dedicated boating page for more marine products.