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XTM Fridge Review (45/75/100) – Is It Worth It?

Thinking of purchasing an XTM fridge for your next trip but wondering whether it’s a good investment or not?

In this XTM fridge review, we’re going to take a deep dive into the pros and cons of the three available different models, which ones would be best suited to certain situations, and ultimately, if they are worth purchasing and will keep working for you reliably for years to come.

First and foremost, let’s take a look at what advantages and disadvantages these models have, so that you can make a more informed decision for your next trip.

 

XTM45 Fridge Freezer 40L

XTM75 Dual Zone Fridge Freezer

XTM100 Dual Zone Fridge Freezer


XTM45 Fridge Freezer 40L
XTM75 Dual Zone Fridge Freezer
XTM100 Dual Zone Fridge Freezer

Single

Dual

Dual

18.5 kg

30 kg

38 kg

600L x 370W x 470H

820L x 470W x 515H

800L x 470W x 620H

40L

74L

100L

10°C to -20°C

10°C to -18°C

10°C to -20°C

Powder coated steel

Powder coated steel

Powder coated steel

2 years

2 years

2 years

12/24V DC or 230V AC

12/24V DC or 230V AC

12/24V DC or 230V AC

Pros & Cons

Pros
  • Temperature changes to desired level quickly, is stable
  • Larger models can be used as single or dual zone
  • Sturdy, can sit on it
  • Good battery life
  • Durable steel handles double as tie-down points
  • Runs quietly
Cons
  • Doesn't have in built Bluetooth for mobile monitoring
  • Some users have noted that use of an extension cord can cause voltage to drop
  • Some customers have reported that the XTM100 compressor leaked oil and gas shortly after purchase
  • The temperature display screen can be difficult to read
  • No wheels

Design

The XTM fridges come in three different sizes - the XTM45 (40L), XTM75 (74L) and XTM100 (100L).

One of the big differences with the XTM75 and XTM100 fridges compared to the smaller XTM45, is that they come with two separate compartments - one for deep freezing, and the other for simple refrigeration. Alternatively, you can remove the barrier inside and use the entire unit just for either freezing or refrigeration.

You’ll also find that one of the compartments comes with a single removable basket, while the other side has two removable baskets. It’s a very handy way to keep everything organized and avoid any of your items sticking together or getting mixed up.

The compartments are also deep enough to be able to comfortably fit wine bottles and other beverages in an upright position. Each compartment has separate lids. Should you find yourself needing to grab something late at night, in the dark, the internal LED lights make it easy to locate what you’re looking for, instead of having to sift around and hope you pull out the right item!

XTM Fridge Freezer Design

On the other hand, however, the XTM45 model is smaller, and therefore only has one compartment.

Additional design features that make the XTM range of fridge freezers stand out from similar items on the market, is that they’re crafted from high quality materials, all the way from the black powder-coated steel body, to the strong seals and latches that lock the lid in place.

The steel handles on the sides allow you to tie your fridge down securely to your vehicle while you’re on the move as well.

Finally, as any well-made freezing or fridge unit should, it includes insulation on the base, lids, and sides, in order to run more efficiently and preserve the internal temperature as much as possible.

Overall, these units are built to high-quality specifications, which allow it to function effectively, and also be easily transported.

Temperature Specs

The XTM45 and XTM100 fridge freezers have a temperature range of 10°C to -20°C, and the XTM 70L has a temperature range of only 10°C to -18°C which is considered standard for portable fridge units.

XTM Fridge Freezer Temperature Spec

Customers have noted that the unit keeps the temperature constant in both zones. Even with numerous uses, the temperature returns rapidly to the desired level once turned on.

It has also been mentioned that some units may not cool as efficiently if just drawing on 12 volts, so if it’s connected to your vehicle, it must be running.

Power Specs

The power specs for each model differ slightly. The XTM75 runs on a powerful Evakool DL22DC compressor, while the XTM100 uses a SECOP compressor. In any case, all three models run on 12/24V dual input voltage, or 230V AC, which is standard for these fridge / freezers.

XTM Fridge Freezer Power Spec

It also features a three-stage, low-voltage battery protection system. A system like this really comes in handy because it’ll stop your fridge from completely draining your vehicle’s battery, should it still be connected when your vehicle is off.

The XTM100 model also includes an electronic temperature control with usb input.

The XTM fridge freezers can also draw upon solar panels as an alternative source of power.

Extras

XTM100DZ Protective Fridge Freezer Cover

An insulating cover can be purchased with either the XTM75 or XTM100 models, with the cover coming with the XTM45 as a default.

Not only does the cover protect from cosmetic damage, but it also lowers energy consumption, while making the battery last longer. In addition, it’ll reduce the amount of surrounding heat that the fridge will normally absorb while it’s being used.

Known Issues & Warranty

Known Issues

Some users report that the lid doesn’t stay on tightly when driving.

In rare cases, some people have reported that their XTM freezer leaked oil or refrigerant. Other users have commented that some seals may be faulty and slightly crooked.

Warranty

The warranty offered by the manufacturer (BCF) is good for two years.

Based on customer reports, the warranty is almost always honored. As soon as an issue is reported, many have been able to either exchange their defective product for an equivalent unit, or have been given store credit.

Price

Based on a number of positive reviews, all three models of the XTM dual zone fridge freezer are very reasonably priced, in comparison to similar products on the market.

XTM Fridge FAQ

What sizes do the XTM fridges come in?

The XTM fridges are available with the following capacities: 40L, 70L, and 100L.

Are XTM fridges any good?

XTM fridges are generally regarded as reliable, mid-tier outdoor fridges that are priced very reasonably. Should there be any issues with your unit, the manufacturer offers a warranty of two years.

How long do XTM fridges keep contents cool when not connected to power?

Most customers report that the XTM fridges can keep contents cool for a matter of three to four days when not connected to a source of power (provided you don’t open them).

Final Thoughts - XTM Fridge Review

The XTM fridge freezers are a very solid overall choice for anyone looking to reliably enjoy frozen and refrigerated goods while out in nature or away from home.

While not considered to be the most high-end options available on the market, they still offer a ton of value for the price point they’re listed at.

Also, keep in mind that none of these have wheels on the bottom, so it might be a bit of a ‘drag’ to move them around, especially once they’re full of stuff!

So, whether you’re a more experienced camper or weekend warrior, we recommend grabbing the XTM fridge freezer model that best suits your needs.

The XTM fridge freezer is often praised for its durability and ability to preserve low temperatures for days when not connected to a power source, so you can rest assured that it’ll serve its purpose when needed.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read through our XTM fridge freezer review! We hope you found the information you were looking for, and will now feel more confident in making a decision on which camping fridge to buy.

If the XTM isn't too your liking, consider getting an Engel fridge or a myCOOLMAN fridge, I highly recommend these!

As always, let us know in the comments if there’s anything we missed, anything you’d like to know more about, or to just share your thoughts on the product itself. Until then, all the best!

Review Summary

Reviewer: Louis
Review Date: 2021-12-03
Reviewed Item: XTM Fridges
Author Rating: 4/5
Product Name: XTM Fridges
Price: AUD $549
Product Availability: Available in Stock


This article may contain affiliate links. I will earn a commission if you choose to purchase a product or service after clicking on my link. This helps pay for the cost of running the website. You will not be disadvantaged in any way by using my links.

Note that while every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information on this page, there may sometimes be errors. Check all specifications with the manufacturer before purchasing any product.

Our Testing Process

In creating this article, we have completed a rigorous review process on not just the XTM XTM45 Fridge Freezer 40L, but we have also compared it to out there. We have also read hundreds of reviews from fellow campers to help form our opinions.

The primary goal of this review is to figure whether this product is right for you, the user. We systematically compare the product to all of the available options on the market, to determine which ones are worthy of our list.

To see which products we compared the XTM XTM45 Fridge Freezer 40L to, check out the list below. Please note that we have never accepted free products from manufacturers.

Full List Of Considered Products


This article may contain affiliate links. I will earn a commission if you choose to purchase a product or service after clicking on my link. This helps pay for the cost of running the website. You will not be disadvantaged in any way by using my links.

Note that while every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information on this page, there may sometimes be errors. Check all specifications with the manufacturer before purchasing any product.

Louis

While Louis does most of his trips near his home in south-east Queensland, he has been camping as far afield as South America and Africa. He loves researching, testing and experimenting with camping gear whenever possible.

  • The XTM45 does infact come with a cover, as stated in the cons list , with pockets on the sides to fit cables in.

    I have found however it only goes down to -18 not -20 as they state

  • Heard about these being very good and I agree-great unit. Really good info in the article -especially about the length of time it keeps contents cool as nowhere on the 45 instructions does it say this (or how long to charge) -odd as one would assume this is a main selling point.

    • I’ve been looking this up and wondering does it have its own battery to run for a short time when not plugged in? or does it just stay cool for that long due to a good seal?

      • No battery. And seal on my 100ltr leaks I have had it 14 months from new and also naw it is going in to error error. Its not my batteries I have 4 and a power tech 30am charger and 300wt panels plus a back up 200wt penal for when it’s a rainy day and I use it I have used it 8 months out of the 14

  • A good report, I think this is the one for me mainly due to the warranty, BCF are every where so if something goes wrong I can find one.

  • Hi Louis
    I have a 100 litre model the back plastic hinges have broken. Can you tell me where I can purchase replacement hinges.
    Thank you
    Steve

  • I have had problems with the 75 litre model having leaking seals I was upgraded to the 100 litre model and have not had a problem since (except for the physical size). Going to get the 45 litre model as well for the weekend trips.

  • Just bought 2 xtms 74 litre from Caloundra . Paid 750 each. ( on special), LOL. One has already shit itself first run!

  • I have tried unsuccessfully at 5 different stores (including BCF) to obtain a two pin cord
    My XTM 40 12/24 DC power cord (supplied with fridge) has cig lighter end
    Power pack I’m using to run fridge at campsite has cig lighter port & 2 pin port
    I want to use 2 pin port as it’s more secure whilst driving

  • I have a xtm 100 litre dualzone have found it very good it cools down to -10 in 20 minutes from the time its turned on haven’t had any issues with it great fridge for the price

  • just purchased xtm75lt straight out of the box and plugged in reads err1 on both panels .Cant find any info on this.Is there any info on these error. readings

  • Bought xtm75 dual zone
    Worked one summer then sparkling out side when connected to 240volt taken to bcf for warranty said had to be taken to get fixed. Then called me to tell me to take it to repair shop for the warranty don’t know how long it will be till its replaced or fixed

  • I bought the crm 100l shit it self first month now 12 months on s**t itself again
    Keeps turning off error message lights on motor not turning on
    Very disappointed back in the shop I want a refund not sure if that’s going to happen

  • I paid 1099$ for myn I’m taking it back 18mts down the track when you really need it and its full of meet and groceries it shts it self all your food is off now on a trip out in the middle of nowhere maby the should really test this junk before selling it to people

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