Dometic CFX3 35 vs BougeRV CRX3 30QT — Side-by-Side Comparison
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The Dometic CFX3 35 (36L, ~$1,099) and BougeRV CRX3 30QT (28L, ~$450) sit at opposite ends of the budget spectrum. Both cool to 0°C and below, both run on 12V DC and 240V AC, and both will keep your food cold on a camping trip. The question is whether the ~$650 price gap is justified by the differences in capacity, build quality, power efficiency, and expected lifespan. If you want a more detailed Dometic-vs-BougeRV analysis covering all sizes, see our full [BougeRV vs Dometic comparison](/bougerv-vs-dometic/) — that guide goes deeper on the warranty, compressor tech, and 10+ year ownership costs that this head-to-head only touches on.
Quick Stats at a Glance
Full Specs Compared
| Spec | Dometic CFX3 35 | BougeRV CRX3 30QT |
|---|---|---|
| Price (AUD) | ~$1,099 | ~$450 |
| Capacity | 36L | 28L |
| Weight | ~15.5kg | ~11kg |
| Power Draw | 0.6–1.0A | 0.8–1.5A |
| Compressor | VMSO3 variable-speed | Standard rotary |
| Rating | 8.8/10 | 7.8/10 |
| Warranty | 3 years | 2 years |
Dometic CFX3 35 — Pros & Cons
- Compact size fits dual-cab utes and tight spaces
- Lightweight at just 15.5kg
- Same VMSO3 compressor as larger models
- WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity
- Lower power draw than larger models
- Great for solo or couples
- Limited capacity for families
- Premium price for a 36L fridge
- Same electronic complexity concerns as CFX3 range
BougeRV CRX3 30QT — Pros & Cons
- Outstanding value at ~$450 AUD direct from BougeRV
- Lightweight at ~11kg — easy to lift solo
- Decent cooling performance for the price
- Good build quality for a budget fridge
- Low barrier to entry for first-time buyers
- Higher power draw than premium brands
- Thinner insulation means compressor runs more often
- Noisier compressor than Dometic or Engel
- Less proven long-term durability
- Ships direct from BougeRV — no Amazon AU or local store pickup
Our Verdict: Dometic CFX3 35 vs BougeRV CRX3 30QT
For occasional weekend campers doing 5-10 trips per year in mild conditions, the BougeRV CRX3 30QT is a sensible choice — you get a functional compact fridge at a low price. For frequent campers, overlanders, or anyone expecting 10+ years of use, the Dometic CFX3 35 is the clear winner — its better insulation, lower power draw, WiFi features, and proven longevity justify the premium over any 3-5 year ownership period.
Rated higher overall: Dometic CFX3 35 (8.8/10)
Frequently Asked Questions
+ Which is cheaper — Dometic CFX3 35 or BougeRV CRX3 30QT?
The BougeRV CRX3 30QT is cheaper at ~$450 — that's $649 less than the Dometic CFX3 35 at ~$1,099.
+ Which has more capacity — Dometic CFX3 35 or BougeRV CRX3 30QT?
The Dometic CFX3 35 has more capacity — 36L vs 28L for the BougeRV CRX3 30QT. That's a difference of 8 litres.
+ Which is lighter — Dometic CFX3 35 or BougeRV CRX3 30QT?
The BougeRV CRX3 30QT is lighter — ~11kg vs ~15.5kg for the Dometic CFX3 35.
+ Which is better overall — Dometic CFX3 35 or BougeRV CRX3 30QT?
We rate the Dometic CFX3 35 higher at 8.8/10 vs 7.8/10 for the BougeRV CRX3 30QT. The perfect compact fridge for ute trays and tight spaces. Same quality as the CFX3 45 in a smaller package.
+ Which draws less power — the Dometic CFX3 35 or the BougeRV CRX3 30QT?
The Dometic CFX3 35 draws significantly less power in real-world use. Its VMSO3 variable-speed compressor and superior insulation mean the compressor cycles less frequently. The Dometic averages around 0.6-0.8A in typical conditions; the BougeRV averages 0.9-1.2A due to its thinner insulation causing more frequent compressor cycles.
+ Which is lighter — the Dometic CFX3 35 or BougeRV CRX3 30QT?
The BougeRV CRX3 30QT is lighter at about 11kg vs the Dometic CFX3 35 at 15.5kg. The BougeRV's lighter weight is partly because it uses less insulation and a simpler compressor.
+ Can the BougeRV CRX3 30QT reach freezer temperatures?
Yes — the BougeRV CRX3 30QT can reach -20°C in mild ambient conditions. However, in hot Australian summer conditions (35°C+), it works harder to maintain freezer temperatures than the Dometic due to thinner insulation. For occasional freezing, it works. For consistent freezer use in hot weather, the Dometic is more reliable.
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