I searched and searched about for a a good portable fridge and found there are many options. I ended up buying an Engel MT45 based solely on price with a group buy and i do like the idea that you can buy a new section to increase its size. If i did not get the MT45 group buy price i was set on getting the Waeco CF-50. Below I list the units i was looking to buy which were all around the 45-50qt range. Some have sizes larger and smaller which you should be able to find within the links below.
1) Cheapo 12v (pleteir type) cooler with no mechanical parts which is found at many stores and online. This is a cheap way to help keep already cooled products stay cooler longer without ice. These will in no way take room temp items and bring then down to fridge (35F) OR freezer (0F) temps. They are also not very good for long trips if you have items such as meat or chicken which can spoil quickly if not maintained at the right temp.
2) Compressor type refrigerator (actual motor compressor and working fluid) which runs just like your fridge at home. This obviously is more expensive, but you can freeze with these. They are very good for longer trips and can work off solar panels if properly sized. There are even more options within this category and many things to consider when purchasing one of these units.
cost
size
weight
power consumption (important on longer trips to preserve battery life or to connect to solar panels)
12v only or AC/DC (nice when getting ready for a trip to plug it into 120 vac).
Here is what my take is on each brand and also links
Edgstar - cheapest, heaviest, most power consumption
http://www.edgestar.com/products/fridgefreeze/fp430.asphttp://www.compactappliance.com/FP430-C ... el_CoolersWhynter (looks to be same as edgestar in cost, weight, and power consumption)
http://whynter.com/RF_Product19.htmhttp://www.sierraexpeditions.com/index. ... ail&p=1048Waeco/Dometic (mid priced, lightest, low power consumption, nicest feature = battery guard which shuts off if batt goes to low, but i have heard some people find it cuts power below the min required to start a car)
http://www.dometic.com/enus/Americas/US ... taid=85492http://www.americanrvcompany.com/Dometi ... _p_84.htmlEngel (Most expensive, mid weight, most proven design, longest warranty, most accessories, lowest power consumption)
http://www.engel-usa.com/http://www.coolerstores.com/12-volt-coo ... 8-prd1.htm
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