Camp Gear Rated

Engel MT45F vs ARB Elements 60L — Side-by-Side Comparison

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The Engel MT45F (~$1,449) and ARB Elements 60L (~$1,599) are two of the options Australian campers consider in the 12v fridges category. The Engel MT45F costs ~$1,449 — that's $150 less than the ARB Elements 60L at ~$1,599. Both are 12V camping fridges popular with Australian campers, but they differ in power efficiency, insulation quality, and long-term reliability. Below we break down the key differences to help you decide.

Quick Stats at a Glance

Engel MT45F

~$1,449

40L · ~21kg

9/10

ARB Elements 60L

~$1,599

60L · ~25kg

8.5/10

Full Specs Compared

Spec Engel MT45F ARB Elements 60L
Price (AUD) ~$1,449 ~$1,599
Capacity 40L 60L
Weight ~21kg ~25kg
Power Draw 0.5–0.9A 0.8–1.3A
Compressor Sawafuji swing motor SECOP variable-speed
Rating 9/10 8.5/10
Warranty 3 years fridge, 5 years compressor 3 years

Engel MT45F — Pros & Cons

What We Like 7
  • Sawafuji swing motor — only one moving part, extremely reliable
  • Lower average power consumption
  • Built like a tank — heavy-gauge steel case
  • Quieter operation once at temperature
  • Proven track record spanning decades
  • Strong resale value
  • Australian company with excellent local warranty support
Watch Out For 6
  • No WiFi, Bluetooth, or app connectivity
  • Heavier than Dometic equivalents
  • Slower initial cool-down
  • Higher price for fewer modern features
  • Smaller capacity at equivalent size
  • Fewer accessories available
Check Price — Engel MT45F

ARB Elements 60L — Pros & Cons

What We Like 5
  • Weatherproof design — rated to IP44
  • Robust build quality from a trusted 4WD brand
  • Large 60L capacity
  • SECOP compressor is reliable and efficient
  • Integrated tie-down points
Watch Out For 4
  • Heavy at 25kg
  • Premium price point
  • No smart connectivity features
  • Bulky for smaller vehicles
Check Price — ARB Elements 60L

Our Verdict: Engel MT45F vs ARB Elements 60L

The Engel MT45F (9/10) is both higher-rated and more affordable at ~$1,449 than the ARB Elements 60L (8.5/10, ~$1,599) — making it the clear winner for most Australian campers. The ARB Elements 60L may suit buyers who specifically need its best weatherproof strengths.

Rated higher overall: Engel MT45F (9/10)

Frequently Asked Questions

+ Which is cheaper — Engel MT45F or ARB Elements 60L?

The Engel MT45F is cheaper at ~$1,449 — that's $150 less than the ARB Elements 60L at ~$1,599.

+ Which has more capacity — Engel MT45F or ARB Elements 60L?

The ARB Elements 60L has more capacity — 60L vs 40L for the Engel MT45F. That's a difference of 20 litres.

+ Which is lighter — Engel MT45F or ARB Elements 60L?

The Engel MT45F is lighter — ~21kg vs ~25kg for the ARB Elements 60L.

+ Which is better overall — Engel MT45F or ARB Elements 60L?

We rate the Engel MT45F higher at 9/10 vs 8.5/10 for the ARB Elements 60L. The buy-it-for-life choice. Legendary reliability with the most efficient compressor on the market.

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