12V Isotherm Refrigerator Review – Worth It Or Not?

I imagine you’re probably here because you’re in the market for a new 12v fridge and have seen the 5-star Isotherm refrigerator reviews.

But, you’ve also seen the price and you’re wondering if an Isotherm fridge is worth the cost.

I had the same questions six years ago… wondering whether an Isotherm 12v fridge was actually that much better.

I decided it was, and six years later I’m even more convinced it was the right choice. This fridge is indestructible, it barely uses any power, is whisper quiet and hasn’t needed a single repair or second of maintenance. Ever.

There’s a reason Isotherm refrigerator reviews rave about this 12v refrigerator. Spoiler… my review is also glowing (but there are a few things I’d change) and yet, I would not buy another Isotherm refrigerator for my camper van… I’ll explain, and give you a better option.

In this article:

• My honest Isotherm refrigerator review (good, bad and ugly semi-unattractive)
• Features you’ll definitely want in a 12v fridge, and what I’d change
• Better Isotherm alternative and best places to buy

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Isotherm 12v Fridge Models

There are a few model variations available for Isotherm 12v fridge and freezers.

Their original model, Isotherm Cruise Classic, dominated for decades before being improved with an updated line-up, Isotherm Cruise Elegance.

Isotherm Cruise Elegance models are their next-generation line, with increased energy efficiency, largely due to improvements in insulation, ventilation and a redesigned door latch.

I have the Isotherm Cruise Elegance 65L in black. This is my exact model.

While a majority of Isotherm refrigerators are upright (front-loading), there are a handful of drawer models available as well.

Isotherm’s Combi line is essentially two Isotherm refrigerators stacked on top of each other.

This allows you to have a fully dedicated fridge and freezer for independent temperature control and increased food storage.

And finally, Isotherm has recently launched a new line. The Isotherm Freeline refrigerators were designed for the RV market and are fairly similar to the Cruise Elegance models, but with a larger integrated freezer.

Isotherm Freeline freezers span the entire width of the refrigerator interior, allowing you to store a wider variety of frozen foods (including pizza!)

The chart below is a quick comparison of popular Isotherm refrigerator models.

12v Isotherm Refrigerator Review

Overall, I’m extremely happy with my Isotherm 12v fridge. It was incredibly easy to install, works reliably without consuming much power, and is extremely quiet.

While it’s a significant initial investment, long-term I think this refrigerator has been a great investment. It hasn’t cost a dime in maintenance or repairs in over 6 years, and the only time I’ve spent on keeping it running is a bi-monthly defrost and wipe down.

Pro: Incredibly Energy Efficient

Isotherm refrigerators are some of the most energy efficient 12v refrigerators available. This is the primary reason I chose Isotherm over other brands, like Dometic.

Highly efficient appliances means you can get away with a smaller battery bank. With Lithium Ion batteries starting around $1,000 for 100Ah, inefficient appliances can actually end up costing you more in a beefy battery bank.

While actively cooling, the 65L Isotherm fridge uses 2.5 amps on a 12 volt system. Even in the hottest, most humid environments my Isotherm 12v fridge pulled less than 30Ah a day.

Isotherm refrigerators feature an intelligent fan that distributes cool air evenly throughout the fridge. This maintains a consistent temperature throughout, while decreasing how frequently the compressor has to run.

Of course, your mileage may vary depending on the climate you’re in. Hotter climates mean the compressor has to run more often to keep the refrigerator cool, so more energy is used.

On a semi-related note, I also like that Isotherm refrigerators can run on AC or DC power (115/230V AC; 12/24V DC). Everything you need to easily swap between power supplies is included.

Pro: Isotherm Refrigerator Noise Level

This wasn’t a category I weighed heavily when deciding which 12v fridge to buy, but it should have been.

Living in a tiny space means you’re sleeping 3 feet away from your refrigerator. If it’s noisy every time the compressor kicks on, you’re going to be irritated all night long.

Luckily, Isotherm refrigerators are super quiet. They have a built-in compressor that is vibration-free, so they produce only 38 dB while running (the lack of harsh vibration also extends their lifespan.)

If it was completely silent, and I was focused on it, I could hear when the compressor kicked on… barely. But it never kept me awake or woke me up.

Pro: Long Warranty

I love to see a long warranty. It signals to me that the manufacturer is confident in the durability of their product.

Isotherm refrigerators come with a 2-year parts warranty and a 5-year compressor warranty.

The compressor is an expensive repair, so knowing Isotherm backs theirs for 5-years is a very positive sign.

SECOP compressors (previously Danfoss) are used exclusively in Isotherm refrigerators. These are widely regarded as top-of-the-line compressors in the marine and overlanding markets.

Not only are they extremely efficient and very durable, but they’re also one of the quietest compressors you can find.

Ultimately, I never had to use the warranty on my Isotherm fridge. It’s worked flawlessly since day one.

Pro: Adjustable Storage Makes Organizing Easy

It may seem like a small feature, but when you’re working with such a small space the ability to customize the layout can dramatically increase its usability.

Another simple, yet extremely handy feature are the adjustable tabs for the door storage.

Pro: A Freezer That Actually Freezes

Additionally, the Isotherm refrigerator has a built-in freezer compartment that is perfect for storing ice or frozen food items.

I’m even able to fit a pint of ice cream (on it’s side) in the freezer!

Unlike most small RV refrigerators, the freezer in the Isotherm fridge actually keeps food frozen.

Most of the cheaper 12v fridge options are unable to freeze food. At best, they can keep it frozen. However, it can be a challenge to get unfrozen food to become frozen (which is a problem if you want to make ice.) Isotherm refrigerators don’t have this issue.

The Isotherm Cruise Elegance line features a magnetic freezer door. This helps seal the door closed and prevent air leaks, and it’s also handy for propping the door up for hands-free access.

And finally, I was very pleasantly surprised by minimal frost build-up inside the freezer. Even in humid summer months, the freezer stayed relatively ice-free, which means less maintenance and more space for food storage.

Naturally, your mileage with frost build-up will vary. The more humid your environment, the more often you’ll have to thaw it out. More on that later.

Pro: Incredibly Easy Installation

Installing my Isotherm refrigerator was one of the easiest projects in my DIY van build.

The fridge came with a 12v quick-disconnect pigtail, which easily plugs into the vehicles electrical system.

There are two options for mounting the Isotherm fridge; flanges or the internal anchoring system.

The flange system consists of 3 metal pieces that trim the top, right and left sides. They’re fixed to the fridge frame and screwed into the front face of the adjacent cabinets.

While the flanges gives a sleeker, more integrated look they require 1.5 inches more width to install.

TIP: The Isotherm Cruise Elegance door is 2 inches thick. If you’re using the flanges, you cannot push the fridge back far enough to make the door flush with the cabinets, it will protrude out. A flush fit can only be done with the anchoring system.

The internal anchoring system (the method I used), allows you to screw through the sidewalls of the fridge into the cabinet frame.

Installation is easy; simply pop out the internal plugs for access to the mounting points. You can use whatever screws you want, then replace the plugs for an airtight seal.

In total, installation took me about 30 minutes.

Pro: Quick And Easy To Clean

In addition to the other great features outlined in this Isotherm refrigerator review, the Cruise Elegance line offers rounded interior corners.

It’s a simple design feature, but it makes cleaning so much easier. I don’t have to scrub at corners trying to loosen sticky spills.

On average, I have to defrost my Isotherm fridge every other month. More in the summers, less in colder weather.

This is also a relatively easy task. Once the contents are emptied, I turn off the fridge, crack the door open and shove a bath towel in it to catch the melted ice. Easy peasy.

Con: Door Latch Issues

There is only one design flaw I’ve had to date. The door latch doesn’t always lock closed.

While the door may look closed, unless I hear it click the latch isn’t fully engaged. The result is my door flying open when food shifts while I’m driving.

After making that mistake a handful of times I’ve adjusted my habits and no longer have this problem… but it’d be nice if the latch mechanism was stronger and more reliable at engaging the door lock.

Con: Freezer Is Not Removable

My second, and final gripe about my Isotherm refrigerator is that the freezer cannot be removed to create more usable fridge space.

I’ve seen other brands do this, and I think it’s a great idea. However, it’s not incorporated into Isotherm refrigerators (likely because to do so would sacrifice the functionality that allows the freezers to actually freeze.)

Isotherm Refrigerator Sizes

My 65 liter Isotherm refrigerator holds about a weeks worth of food for one or two people. While I like that the fridge dimensions are very compact and work well in my van layout, I would likely size up to the 85 liter or 130 liter fridge if I were to do it over again.

I figure that it’s easier to oversize a fridge than undersize. If needed, I can store non-perishable food in my fridge if space is tight in my cabinets. However, I cannot store perishable food in my cabinets.

If you’re traveling solo, the 65 liter fridge is an option. However, I would not recommend it for more than one person, or if you want to be off-grid for longer than a week.

Overall, the 130 liter Isotherm fridge is the best seller. If you have the space to install it, I would recommend it over the smaller models.

Isotherm Refrigerator Review: Would I Buy It Again?

I have been extremely pleased with my Isotherm refrigerator. It’s delivered on everything it promised and exceeded my expectations.

However, I would only buy another Isotherm if I were living on a boat. Isotherm refrigerators are compatible with additional energy-saving components that are particularly important on live-aboard ships, but not very relevant to overlanding needs.

If I were looking for the best campervan fridge, I’d strongly consider the Indel B Elite line instead.

See Indel B Elite 12v Refrigerators At Heatso.com Here

Why? Indel B is owned owned by the same company. They use almost identical components (including the same compressor.) And they retail for at least $500 less than an Isotherm refrigerator.

In fact, nearly everything I like about this Isotherm review applies to Indel B refrigerators.

The only exceptions are the installation method (Indel B does not have an option for flange installation), Indel B refrigerators operate on 12v/24v only (no DC option), and while they also have a 2 year warranty, they do not include a 5-year compressor warranty like Isotherm refrigerators.

If you want all the nitty gritty details, check out my Isotherm vs Indel B comparison here.

If I were buying a 12v refrigerator for boat life, I’d choose the Isotherm Cruise Elegance 85L or consider the new Isotherm Freeline 115L for it’s larger freezer capacity.

However, for a camper van I would choose the Indel B Elite 85L refrigerator with all the same great energy-efficiency and top-quality products but for nearly $600 less than the comparable Isotherm model.

TIP: The best place to buy Isotherm refrigerators is West Marine. If you’re looking for Indel B Elite models I recommend Heatso. For Indel B Cruise models, check out Nomadic Supply for the best selection.

You can save 5% with my Heatso discount code EVERYWHEREWITHCLAIRE.