Finding the right solar fridge for your extended camping trip can be a bit tricky. That’s why we trust brands like ICECO, Whynter, and COSTWAY.
The right solar refrigerator all comes down to the overall storage capacity you may need, what items you are thinking of storing, and your budget.
Whether it’s a 16-quart solar fridge for a quick trip, or an 85-quart solar refrigerator to feed the whole family, we’ve found the perfect solar fridge options for you!
We tested the best solar refrigerators of 2022 to compile our top 6 ones with a few honorable mentions.
Not sure about solar energy? View this article for more information: What is Solar Energy? Everything You Need to Know!
Our Top Picks
| Product | Details | ||
|---|---|---|---|
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Best Overall: ICECO VL60 Dual Zone Portable Refrigerator | The ICECO is rechargeable, has fridge and freezer capabilities, and is portable. The best portable solar refrigerator. | Check Price |
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Runner-Up: Whynter FM-45G 45 Quart Portable Refrigerator | This solar fridge and freezer has an excellent 45-quart storage capacity. Also has ac or dc power consumption. | Check Price |
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Most Versatile: SMETA Propane Refrigerator With Freezer | This solar refrigerator and freezer has a 12-volt battery and propane compatibility. Perfect for RVs and campers. | Check Price |
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Best For Traveling: F40C4TMP Portable Refrigerator And Freezer | This portable solar fridge is 20 quarts of pure outdoor awesomeness. Its 3-battery design prevents your car battery from draining. | Check Price |
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Best For Budget: COSTWAY Car Refrigerator | The best bang for your buck. 55-quart storage capacity. It has a dual compartment design, and all of the battery features you could want. | Check Price |
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Best Fridge And Freezer Combo: Dometic CFX75DZW 12v Electric Powered Cooler | This combo appliance features separate compartments for cooling and freezing. It includes WiFi, and wire baskets making it easy to organize. | Check Price |
How We Chose the Best 6 Solar Refrigerators
To find our list of the best 6 solar refrigerators, we had to consider a few aspects.
When camping, traveling, or having a backyard family cookout it is important to understand your cooling and freezing needs.
For our list of the best portable solar refrigerator options, many of them included fridge freezer capabilities, either with a wide temperature range or dual compartments with separate temperature settings.
We took a look at size and portability. Our list ranges anywhere from 16 to 85-quart capacity.
You can choose what best fit is for your length of travel or size of party you are feeding.
We looked at what consumers and outdoor enthusiasts were already saying about these solar refrigerators to determine what the best options were in order to test them out for ourselves!
Complete your solar camping kit with the 4 Best Solar Ovens TESTED (Cook With The Sun)!
Best Solar Refrigerators Reviewed
1. Best Overall: ICECO VL60 Dual Zone Portable Refrigerator
Product Ratings
| Affordability | 3/5 |
| Size | 5/5 |
| Effectiveness | 5/5 |
| Temp Range | 4/5 |
| Quality | 5/5 |
Sizes: 63 quarts | Temp Range: 0-50 degrees Fahrenheit | Brand: ICECO | Dimensions: 31.2 x 19.4 x 18.8” | Weight: 65.7 lbs | Compact: Yes
What We Liked
- Dual compartments with independent controls
- SECOP compressor
- 2 removable wire baskets
- ECO mode to decrease power consumptionespan
What We Didn’t Like
- Temperature range stops at 0 degrees Fahrenheit
- Heavy
- On the more expensive side
Size
ICECO offers a variety of sizes and dual or single cooler options. The 63-quart dual-zone cooler made our list due to its efficiency compared to its overall size.
This cooler can fit in almost any type of vehicle and is a portable option for those who wish to keep items frozen.
It comes with 2 wire baskets which allow easy stocking and restocking of refrigerator items. It provides ample storage for long weekends.
Ease of Use
This solar refrigerator is user-friendly and comes with a 5-year warranty on the compressor. Along with a 1-year warranty on all of the other components.
We like this about ICECO’s 60-liter solar refrigerators because it enables customers to have a piece of mind when making a big purchase.
We find it is easy to use with its independent controls for either side of the solar refrigerator and is great for car or home usage.
The convenient interior LED lights allow you to have a well-lit environment while operating this solar refrigerator.
See Price on Amazon2. Runner-Up: Whynter FM-45G 45 Quart Portable Refrigerator
Product Ratings
| Affordability | 5/5 |
| Size | 5/5 |
| Effectiveness | 5/5 |
| Temp Range | 5/5 |
| Quality | 5/5 |
Size: 45 quart | Temp Range: -8 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit | Brand: Whynter | Dimensions: 16.5 x 23.5 x 20.5” | Weight: 45 lbs | Compact: Yes
What We Liked
- “Fast freeze” mode
- 65 watts
- 8 ft AC power cord and 10 ft DC power cord
- 2 removable wire baskets
What We Didn’t Like
- One compartment only
- Not many color options
Size
We find the Whynter 45 quart solar refrigerator to be a great purchase if you are on a budget. It is a functional size for its overall price and is lighter than our overall top pick.
The size of this cooler makes it super portable and convenient to take on any trip. It ensures your cold items will stay at the desired temperature.
The Whynter 45 quart features two removable wire baskets and is perfect for RVs, campers, trucks, boats, and anywhere else you need efficient cooling and freezing food storage.
Ease of Use
This solar refrigerator is user-friendly, with a single compartment to control.
The LED temperature display lets you view what temp your fridge is cooling at and adjust accordingly.
Its design allows a tight, insulated seal with a single locking mechanism ensuring your food will stay cold as long as you need it to.
See Price on Amazon3. Most Versatile: SMETA Propane Refrigerator with Freezer
Product Ratings
| Affordability | 2/5 |
| Size | 5/5 |
| Effectiveness | 5/5 |
| Temp Range | 5/5 |
| Quality | 5/5 |
Size: 3.4 cubic feet | Weight: 75 lbs| Brand: SMETA | Temp Range: -0.4 to 32 degrees Fahrenheit | Dimension: 20.6 x 23.2 x 32.2” | Compact: No
What We Liked
- Runs on either propane or AC/DC power
- Fridge and freezer duo
- No noise
- Slide-out plastic drawers
- High efficiency
What We Didn’t Like
- Not suited for portability
- Not heavy-duty outer shell
Size
The size of the SMETA Propane Fridge with Freezer is similar to that of a mini-fridge.
If you are on the market for a solar-powered mini-fridge to add to your camper, RV, dorm room, or outdoor patio this is your pick.
It features exceptional storage options like shelves, door racks, and sliding drawers/crispers.
The size of this solar refrigerator takes the cake over most solar refrigerators!
It is a whopping 75 lbs which is not exactly ideal for camping or traveling with but is perfect for an outdoor or long-term setup.
The size of this solar-powered refrigerator covers all of your cold food storage needs.
Ease of Use
Similar to that of a mini-fridge the SMETA is qualified as being ultra user-friendly.
It features a front-facing control panel with the safety valve, temperature control, and battery ignition all in one place.
It is a single-door design making it an easy-to-use solar refrigerator option for your office, RV, or Pago.
Consumers say this solar refrigerator is excellent for off-grid setups due to its propane and electricity capabilities.
Its low power consumption design will have you using minimal propane and runs on 120v and 12v.
See Price on Amazon4. Best for Traveling: F40C4TMP Portable Refrigerator and Freezer
Product Ratings
| Affordability | 5/5 |
| Size | 3/5 |
| Effectiveness | 5/5 |
| Temp Range | 5/5 |
| Quality | 5/5 |
Size: 20 quart | Temp Range: -7.6 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit | Brand: F40C4MP | Dimensions: 22.68 x 12.6 x 11.3” | Weight: 25 lbs | Compact: Yes
What We Liked
- Powerful and highly efficient compressor systems
- Consumes 1kWh per day
- Great for camping with only solar energy for power
- USB phone charging port
What We Didn’t Like
- Not as large in size
- Single compartment
- No storage racks included
Size
This solar refrigerator is exceptional for mobility. Take it on the go when you are camping, traveling for the day, or even for your next backyard bbq.
This solar cooler option is 20 quarts and can fit all of your picnic staples, including the ice cream!
This is one of our favorites due to its compact size, portability, affordability, and efficiency.
Consumers love it because it can fit in the cockpit of their boats, in the passenger or back seat of cars and trucks, and is a great addition to your next adventure!
Ease of Use
This solar refrigerator is particularly easy to use when it comes to working and operation.
It circulates on and off to maintain the internal temperature due to its energy-efficient design.
Choose from Eco mode or Max mode for different energy settings. This solar refrigerator features a top-down LED display screen located next to the lid.
This feature allows users to adjust the temperature accordingly with ease of use.
See Price on Amazon5. Best for Budget: COSTWAY Car Refrigerator
Product Ratings
| Affordability | 5/5 |
| Size | 5/5 |
| Effectiveness | 5/5 |
| Temp Range | 5/5 |
| Quality | 5/5 |
Size: 55 quart | Weight: 38 lbs | Brand: COSTWAY | Dimensions: 13.5 x 27 x 21” | Temp Range: -4 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit | Compact: Yes
What We Liked
- Size to price ratio
- Separate-dual zone design
- Battery protection design
- LED interior lights
- Multi-Voltage system
What We Didn’t Like
- Material of outer shell not recommended for heavy duty
- Only one handle
Size
The COSTWAY solar refrigerator is deemed the best for your budget due to its size-to-cost ratio.
It is 55 quarts and is a larger-sized fridge. It’s more affordable when up against some of its competitors.
The depth is impressive and features storage racks so you have plenty of organization within its compartment.
The COSTWAY features dual compartments so you can utilize either section for refrigeration or for freezing.
At 55 quarts you can fit a total of 55 bottles of wine, or 84 bottles of beer. Great purchase for great storage!
Ease of Use
This solar fridge is easy to use. It features an LED display screen to determine its temperature.
Adjustable temperature buttons are accommodated by a setting button where you can switch between ECO or Max mode.
You can plug this solar fridge into an outlet at home, or via your cigarette lighter inside your vehicle.
With its compressor and functional design, the COSTWAY features a battery protection fail safe so you don’t have to worry about killing your car battery.
See Price on Amazon6. Best Fridge and Freezer Combo: Dometic CFX75DZW 12v Electric Powered Cooler
Product Ratings
| Affordability | 2/5 |
| Size | 5/5 |
| Effectiveness | 5/5 |
| Temp Range | 5/5 |
| Quality | 5/5 |
Size: 90 quarts | Weight: 70 lbs | Brand: Dometic | Dimensions: 34.92 x 19.49 x 18.58” | Temp Range: -7 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit | Compact: Yes
What We Liked
- Robust construction
- Powerful compressor
- Large capacity
- Two separate compartments
- Warranty card
- WiFi connectivity
- Drain plug
What We Didn’t Like
- Not compact
- Not affordable
Size
We like the DOMETIC for its overall size. At 90 quarts, this solar fridge is best for long-trips and large SUVs, RVs, and campers.
Due to its weight, it may not be recommended for its portability. It is excellent if stationary and used as a reliable source of refrigeration.
With its dual compartments, you have the option to use either for fridge or freezer use.
It’s size makes the DOMETIC the leading option for both fridge and freezer combo options when compared to our list of 6 best solar refrigerator.
Ease of Use
This solar fridge comes with one connection cable, and 2 removable wire baskets for each compartment.
The DOMETIC features interior LED lights making it easier to see in dimly lit environments.
And, with its display screen and control panel on the side of the cooler, outdoor refrigeration has never been made easier.
The DOMETIC is leading for its user-friendly, durable, and efficient design.
See Price on AmazonComparison Chart
| Products | Best Overall | Runner-Up | Most Versatile | Best For Traveling | Best For Budget | Best Fridge and Freezer Combo |
| Overall Rating | 4.4/5 | 5/5 | 4.4/5 | 4.6/5 | 5/5 | 4.4/5 |
| Affordability | 3/5 | 5/5 | 2/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 | 2/5 |
| Size | 5/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 | 3/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Effectiveness | 5/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Temp Range | 4/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Quality | 5/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 |
The Winner
Overall, we chose the ICECO VL60 Dual Zone Portable Refrigerator as our winning pick.
The ICECO features a durable exterior design, with exceptional interior storage, and separate cooling options in 63 quarts of space.
How to Choose the Best Solar Refrigerators
Sizing
When choosing the right solar refrigerator that fits your needs, it is important to consider what size you will need.
Are you feeding a family of four? Traveling for an extended period of time? Or are you using it for a quick weekend barbecue?
Sizing is optimal when it comes to finding the right solar-powered fridge for you.
We considered a variety of different sizes of coolers from 20 quarts to 85 quarts and reviewed their efficiency and portability.
We found that the larger the cooler, the heavier it may be. Which makes it ideal if you are using it in one place like a patio or garage, or for an extended period of travel.
Budget
We found that your budget is crucial when it comes to finding the right solar-powered fridge.
You don’t want to acquire a cheap product. This is why we tested out several that we consider to be in-budget and how efficient they are against the leading coolers.
Your budget can determine which fridge could be best for you.
When it comes to cooling and storing your food essentials, you don’t want to break the bank!
Considering how much you’d like to spend, along with a variety of functions you may need for success is where you’ll find the best cooler for your situation.
How Long You’ll Be Using It
Finding the right solar refrigerator and freezer can be dependent upon how long you will be using it, or rather relying on it for food keeping.
If you are gone for a cross-country trip in an RV or camper, you may want a larger size solar fridge to avoid having to frequently restock.
If you want a solar fridge to keep ice cream cool for your next cookout, a smaller, energy-efficient cooler may be the best fit for you.
Anticipating how long you will be using the solar fridge can help determine the best option for you.
The key is to be efficient when purchasing your next solar refrigerator and freezer so you won’t end up with something that is either too big, or too small for your food storage needs.
Read More: 6 Best Solar Water Heater Systems (Tested: See Results). Perfect for at-home or whenever you’re on-the-go, these solar water heater systems have been tested for efficiency!
Honorable Mentions
Here’s a brief look at the 3 options that didn’t make our list.
1. Best for Traveling Runner-Up: Alpicool C15 Portable Refrigerator
This 16 quart solar fridge is runner up when it comes to traveling due to its lightweight and compact design.
With all of the same great features like battery protection, and deep chilling capability it’s a good buy for the overall price.
2. Best Rechargeable: Euhomy 12 Volt Refrigerator
With its high efficiency and low energy consumption, the Euhomy 12 volt refrigerator is the best rechargeable solar fridge.
It features Bluetooth connection to your phone. It has both ECO and Max mode cooling and freezing.
New to solar and energy efficiency? Check out what solar is used for with this article: What is Solar Energy Used For?
3. Best for Families: Whynter FM-85G 85 Quart Portable Fridge
We added another Whynter solar cooler to our list in our honorable mentions section due to its large capacity. It features 85-quart storage for a decent price.
We think it is the best option for families because it can store food for several days.