A low-cost fridge for occasional camping, where price matters more than warranty or published data.
Amazon $289.99 Alpicool $251.99The Alpicool NCF45 is the better 12V fridge overall, rated 3.6 to 3.5. The Alpicool NCF45 leads on warranty. The Alpicool NCF45 costs $48 less ($251.99 vs $299.99).
A low-cost fridge for occasional use, with a 1-year warranty.
Costway $299.99Prices were last checked October 21, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
Which should you buy?
- Choose the Alpicool NCF45 for warranty (1-year unit, 2-year compressor vs 1-year unit).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every mid-size 12V fridge; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Alpicool NCF45 | Costway EP24942 42QT Dual Zone |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.6/5 | 3.5/5 |
| Value 35% | 99 $6.30 per liter | 94 $7.50 per liter |
| Efficiency 20% | 50 no daily energy figure published (neutral score used) | 50 no daily energy figure published (neutral score used) |
| Warranty 20% | 15 1-year unit, 2-year compressor | 0 1-year unit |
| Build 15% | 50 compressor maker not stated (neutral score used) | 50 compressor maker not stated (neutral score used) |
| Portability 10% | 50 weight not published (neutral score used) | 70 0.90 lb per liter |
Specifications
| Alpicool NCF45 | Costway EP24942 42QT Dual Zone | |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | ||
| Capacity | 40 L (42 qt) | 40 L (42 qt) |
| Zones | Single zone | Dual zone |
| Temperature range | −4 to 68 °F | −4 to 50 °F |
| Price per liter | $6.30 | $7.50 |
| Power | ||
| Rated input | - | 55 W |
| Battery | None | None |
| AC adapter included | Yes | No |
| Build | ||
| Weight (empty) | - | 36 lb |
| Noise (maker) | - | 45 dB |
| Warranty | 1 yr, 2 yr compressor | 1 yr |
