ICECO APL35 37 Quart 12V Portable Fridge Freezer
$429
Key Specs
| capacity | 35L (37 quart) |
| zones | Single |
| compressor | SECOP |
| power | 12V/24V DC, 110-240V AC |
| temperature-range | -4°F to 50°F |
| weight | 33 lbs |
Pros
- ✓ 37-quart capacity handles three to four days of food for two
- ✓ SECOP compressor with proven long-term reliability
- ✓ Lightweight at 33 lbs for its capacity class
- ✓ Swing-up lid with dual side hinges for flexible access
Cons
- ✗ Single zone — choose fridge or freezer mode, not both simultaneously
- ✗ No integrated Bluetooth on base model
Detailed Review
Overview
The ICECO APL35 occupies the practical sweet spot for solo travelers and couples who need more than a weekend’s worth of storage but want to keep weight and footprint manageable. At 37 quarts, it holds enough food for three to four days without restocking, and its 33-pound weight makes it easy to move in and out of a vehicle.
ICECO built the APL35 around a SECOP compressor, which is the same technology that powers commercial refrigeration equipment. The cabinet is insulated with high-density foam, and the exterior handles a reasonable amount of trail abuse without showing wear.
Cooling Performance
The APL35 operates as either a refrigerator (down to 32°F) or a full freezer (down to -4°F), set via the front panel controls. Switching between modes is straightforward, and the SECOP compressor reaches target temperature quickly — typically within 15-20 minutes from ambient.
In sustained hot conditions, the SECOP compressor maintains setpoints reliably. This matters most when you are parked in full sun in the desert or a hot campground and the exterior ambient climbs above 95°F — conditions where cheaper compressors cycle excessively or fail to hold temperature.
Power Efficiency
Running as a refrigerator at 38°F in a 75°F ambient environment, the APL35 draws approximately 28-32Ah per day. In freezer mode, expect slightly higher consumption around 35-40Ah per day. These figures are competitive for a SECOP-equipped unit and mean a 200Ah battery bank provides 5-7 days of operation without solar.
The compressor’s variable-speed operation reduces power draw during stable conditions, helping extend battery life during overnight use when ambient temperatures drop.
Who It’s For
The APL35 is a strong choice for van lifers, overlanders, and RV users who want SECOP reliability in a medium-size format without paying for dual-zone functionality they may not need. If you primarily use your portable fridge as either a refrigerator or freezer — not both simultaneously — the APL35 delivers excellent value and ICECO’s premium build quality at a mid-tier price.
