For upgrading a 6 cu ft absorption cutout to 8 cu ft of compressor fridge at a fair price.
Amazon $1,186.48The Dometic DMC4081 8 cu ft 12V is the better RV refrigerator overall, rated 4.3 to 4.2. The Dometic DMC4081 8 cu ft 12V leads on price. The Dometic DMC4081 8 cu ft 12V costs $212.66 less ($1,186.48 vs $1,399.14).
For replacing a Norcold absorption fridge with the least cabinet work. A safe, well supported choice.
Amazon $1,399.14Prices were last checked November 3, 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 Dometic DMC4081 8 cu ft 12V for price ($1,186.48, $148 per cu ft vs $1,399.14, $171 per cu ft).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every midsize RV refrigerator; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Dometic DMC4081 8 cu ft 12V | Norcold Polar N8DC |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 4.3/5 | 4.2/5 |
| Price 30% | 94 $1,186.48, $148 per cu ft | 80 $1,399.14, $171 per cu ft |
| Capacity 25% | 100 8 cu ft | 100 8.2 cu ft |
| Energy use 10% | 50 energy use not published (neutral score used) | 50 energy use not published (neutral score used) |
| Features 25% | 70 freezer section, digital controls | 70 freezer section, digital controls |
| Warranty 10% | 50 1-year warranty | 50 1-year warranty |
Specifications
| Dometic DMC4081 8 cu ft 12V | Norcold Polar N8DC | |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| Total capacity | 8 cu ft | 8.2 cu ft |
| Freezer | Yes | Yes |
| Doors | Two doors | Two doors |
| Reversible door | - | Yes |
| Power | ||
| Voltage | 12V DC | 12V DC |
| Rated current | 13 A | - |
| Frost free | - | No |
| Digital controls | Yes | Yes |
| Build | ||
| Height | 53.6 in | 52.9 in |
| Width | 23.6 in | 23.3 in |
| Depth | 27.5 in | - |
| Weight | 114 lb | - |
| Warranty | 1 year | 1 year |
