Tired of melted bags of ice, soggy food, and unreliable cool-downs on your boat or camping trip? The Dometic CFX Series electric compressor fridge/freezers redefine portable cooling — with vacuum-insulated panels, remote control, deep-freeze capability and vehicle-ready AC/DC/12-24 V power.

In this comparison blog we’ll break down how the CFX5 line stacks up against traditional ice chests, the real world benefits for boaters, RVers and outdoor adventurers, and why upgrading now makes sense. We’ll highlight key models (25 L, 35 L, 45 L, and the 55/55IM) and show you how to choose the right size for your needs. Then we’ll point you to our collection at Suncoast Marine & Auto where you can shop all our Dometic options and accessories.

The Limitations of Traditional Ice Coolers

• Ice coolers require constant replenishment of ice, lead to soggy food, water-logging and contaminated melt-water.
• They don’t freeze; they simply chill above 32 °F and degrade quickly in warm conditions.
• On boats or RVs, wasted cooler space, poor insulation and high maintenance add up.
• In remote setups, they can’t be powered or managed dynamically — you’re at the mercy of ambient conditions.

What the Dometic CFX5 Series Brings to the Table

• The CFX5 line uses Vacuum Insulated Panels (VIP) for best-in-class insulation and reduced power draw. 
• Variable Motor Speed Optimization (VMSO) compressor for efficient cooling and freezing down to -22 °F (-30 °C) in some models. 
• Multi-power input: AC (110-240 V), DC (12/24 V) and solar compatibility for mobile/off-grid applications. 
• Smart control: high‐resolution TFT display, smartphone app via Bluetooth/WiFi, alerts and monitoring functions. 
• Rugged build designed for marine, van-life, expedition use: ExoFrame construction, reinforced corners, easy-carry handles. 

Real Benefits for Boaters, Anglers & RV-Adventure Seekers

• Better freshness and safety: keep fish, meat and perishables frozen or chilled reliably — not just “cool”.
• Less wasted space: no melting ice means more usable storage and less drainage mess.
• Energy efficiency: the VIP insulation and smart compressor mean lower draw — ideal for boats, RVs or solar setups.
• Convenience & control: monitor temperature remotely, get alerts if lid is open, manage power draw — features you won’t get with an ice chest.
• Versatility: use as fridge, freezer or dual-zone (in DZ models) for mixed uses (drinks + frozen meals).

How to Choose the Right Model from the CFX5 Line

Dometic CFX5 25 L

Shop a compact solution, ideal for day trips, small craft or minimal gear.

Dometic CFX5 35 L

Shop the “sweet spot” - perfect for weekend boating or fishing trips.

Dometic CFX5 45 L

Shop a larger capacity ideal for mid-sized boats or family trips.

Dometic CFX5 55 IM

The 55IM model includes built-in ice maker — perfect for extended adventures or base camp.

Reasons why this Series is a great investment:

• Investing in your devices can deliver far fewer hassles, less waste, better food/drink preservation and longer-term satisfaction.
• Reliability in marine environments — no melting, no leaking water, sealed units vs seasonal ice chest replacements.
• Resale value, brand reputation (Dometic is global outdoor tech leader) and highlight energy savings or extended use in remote environments.
• This fits well for marine customers: fits in boat scuppers, is low-profile, uses 12/24 V so you can integrate with your boat’s battery bank — ideal for boaters and anglers wanting “set it and forget it” cooling.

Bundle with our top accessories like cup holders, converters, and slide-out mounting kits (for boats/RVs), etc.

Also available from Dometic at Suncoast is the CFX Series, NRX Series and CFF Series. Shop the Full Dometic Collection at Suncoast Marine & Auto and upgrade your onboard comfort.

Upgrade now and avoid the ice chest hassles this season.