BougeRV CRD2 v2 Review: A Quiet, Efficient Dual Zone Fridge With Solar Charging

Introduction

BougeRV has released an updated version of its dual zone camping fridge, the CRD2 v2. The new model promises quieter operation, improved efficiency, and a battery option that supports direct solar charging while the fridge is in use. The battery uses lithium iron phosphate chemistry, which offers thousands of recharge cycles. This review looks at whether the CRD2 v2 delivers on those claims.

Who This Product Is For

The CRD2 v2 is aimed at campers, overlanders, and anyone who needs a reliable portable fridge for road trips or off-grid use. It is especially relevant for people who want the flexibility of a battery-powered fridge that can also be charged from solar panels. The fixed dual zone design makes it a good fit for those who want separate fridge and freezer compartments without the need to convert between them.

Design and Build Quality

The CRD2 v2 comes in three sizes: 40, 50, and 60 liters, which translate to 43, 52, and 61 quarts. The smallest 43-quart version measures approximately 29 by 18 by 7 inches and weighs around 46 pounds. This is the most efficient of the three because there is less space to cool.

Unlike many other dual zone fridges, the CRD2 v2 has two separate compartments with no removable divider. The zones are fixed and permanent. However, each side can be disabled independently through the app to save power. Both doors are reversible, so they can be set to open from either the left or the right.

The build quality is notably solid. The body is made from metal or ABS plastic, and the latches feel strong. The doors are heavy and well constructed. The pull bar is metal and extends so the fridge can be rolled on its wheels. Spring-loaded handles are also metal. Both compartments include interior lights and drain plugs, which are features that many competing fridges omit. The freezer side also has a light and a small removable basket. A metal bottle opener is included, which is a practical touch for camping.

Performance Testing

The CRD2 v2 was tested in a controlled environment to measure cooling speed, power consumption, and temperature stability. The fridge was set to 32 degrees Fahrenheit on both sides, with the compressor running in max mode to test how quickly it could cool down from room temperature.

The fridge reached 32 degrees in just under 30 minutes, using 23 watt-hours of power. The internal temperature sensor showed a reading of 29 degrees at the very bottom of the compartment, which means the actual temperature a few inches up was likely right around the 32-degree set point. This is within the expected range of plus or minus 3 to 4 degrees.

For the 24-hour efficiency test, the fridge was set to 32 degrees in eco mode. Over a full day, it used 184 watt-hours of power. This is very efficient for a portable fridge. Temperature stability over that period was strong, with the internal temperature staying within plus or minus 2 degrees of the set point. The minimum recorded was 28 degrees and the maximum was 32 degrees.

Noise levels were measured from one meter away and came in at about 45 dB. The fridge is quiet for a budget model. There are occasional popping or clicking sounds when the compressor kicks on, and the fridge shakes briefly at startup, which is normal behavior. For the price point, the noise output is very acceptable.

Battery and Solar Charging

The optional 240-watt-hour battery is one of the standout features of the CRD2 v2. It uses lithium iron phosphate chemistry, which is rare in this price range. This battery chemistry is safer than lithium cobalt because it is less likely to overheat or catch fire, which matters when charging inside a hot vehicle. It also lasts for thousands of recharge cycles, compared to roughly a thousand cycles for cobalt-based batteries.

The battery can be charged with up to 200 watts of solar input through an XT60 port, or with up to 100 watts of USB-C power. The USB-C port is bidirectional, meaning it can both charge and discharge the battery. There is also an XT60 output at 13 volts and 10 amps for powering 12-volt appliances directly, plus a USB-A output at 18 watts. The fridge can be charged while it is running, which effectively extends its usefulness when paired with a solar panel or a power station.

In real-world testing, the fridge ran for 21 hours on the battery while maintaining 32 degrees in eco mode, with two of five battery indicator lights still remaining. The manufacturer claims up to 25 hours for the smallest model, and the test results support that estimate. The larger models are rated for 25 and 20 hours respectively, since they have more space to cool with the same compressor.

App Control

The companion app allows users to turn off either side of the fridge independently, adjust temperatures on both sides, and switch between eco and max modes. It also provides control over the beep sound and the screen settings. Battery protection levels can only be adjusted through the app, not on the fridge itself. The app automatically adapts to 12-volt or 24-volt systems depending on the input voltage.

Build Quality and Durability

The CRD2 v2 feels robust and well made for its price. The metal handles and latches are strong, and the tie-down points allow the fridge to be secured during off-road travel. The reversible doors add flexibility for different vehicle layouts.

The overall construction inspires confidence for camping use. The combination of metal components and sturdy ABS plastic means the fridge should hold up well to the bumps and knocks of outdoor life.

Buying Advice

The CRD2 v2 is available in three sizes, with or without the 240-watt-hour battery. The 43-quart model without the battery is priced at $289. The 52-quart version is $328, and the 61-quart version is $356. With the battery bundle, the 43-quart model costs $441, the 52-quart version is $496, and the 61-quart version is $524.

The smallest model is the recommended choice for anyone who wants the longest battery runtime, since it has less space to cool. The battery bundle is the better value compared to buying the battery separately later.

Conclusion

The BougeRV CRD2 v2 delivers on its key promises. It is quiet, efficient, and well built for the price. The optional lithium iron phosphate battery with solar charging support is a genuinely useful feature that sets it apart from many competitors. For campers and overlanders who want a reliable dual zone fridge with battery flexibility, the CRD2 v2 is a strong option worth considering.