Discover why the Dometic NRX series is revolutionising mobile refrigeration for campervans, motorhomes, caravans, and marine vessels. From unbeatable energy efficiency to innovative modular design, find out which NRX model is perfect for your adventures.
For anyone living or travelling in a campervan, motorhome, caravan, or boat, the refrigerator is arguably the most critical appliance on board. It's the unsung hero that stands between a perfectly chilled drink at sunset and a carton of spoiled milk in the middle of nowhere. When you're miles from the nearest power source, you need a fridge that doesn't just cool—you need one that works smarter, not harder.
Enter the Dometic NRX series: Dometic's latest and most advanced line of compressor refrigerators, designed specifically for people on the move. Replacing the popular CRX series, the NRX represents a significant leap forward in mobile refrigeration technology, combining industry-leading energy efficiency with innovative features that solve the real-world challenges of off-grid living.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about the Dometic NRX series—from the different model variants and their unique features to the technical specifications that matter most. Whether you're fitting out a new build or upgrading an existing setup, this guide will help you choose the perfect Dometic NRX refrigerator for your adventures.
What makes the NRX series stand out from other mobile refrigerators? Here are eight compelling reasons why this new range is setting the standard for off-grid refrigeration:
The single most impactful improvement in the NRX series is its exceptional energy efficiency. These refrigerators consume up to 25% less energy than comparable models—and approximately 9% better than even the successful CRX predecessor series. While that number might sound modest on paper, its real-world impact is massive for anyone relying on a limited battery supply.
This isn't just an abstract percentage; it's another day of solitude by the lake, an extra night stargazing in the desert, or the confidence to push deeper into the backcountry without a generator shattering the peace. With energy consumption as low as 0.22kWh per 24 hours on some models, the NRX series directly extends your ability to stay off-grid longer.
In a compact mobile space, every inch counts. The Dometic NRX series introduces a brilliant modular design feature: the entire freezer compartment can be completely removed. This patented Dometic invention gives you unprecedented control over your cold storage.
The practical benefit is immediate. Heading out for a weekend and need more space for fresh produce than frozen goods? Just pull the freezer out and instantly transform the entire unit into a larger-capacity refrigerator. Going on a longer trip requiring frozen food storage? Simply reinsert the freezer compartment. This 3-in-1 cooling solution—refrigerator, freezer, or both—moves beyond the one-size-fits-all approach, empowering you to configure your appliance to match the specific needs of each journey.
The NRX series features a premium smart compressor with three distinct operating modes, all controlled via an intuitive touch control panel:
This flexibility allows you to tailor the refrigerator's operation to your specific situation, whether you're prioritising battery life, cooling speed, or a peaceful night's sleep.
One often-overlooked challenge with mobile refrigerators is what happens when they're not in use. The NRX series includes a thoughtful dual-function lock system that also acts as a ventilation mechanism. When the fridge isn't in use—during winter storage or between trips—you can engage the vent function to prop the door slightly ajar, promoting air circulation and preventing moisture build-up, mould growth, and unpleasant odours.
This small detail demonstrates Dometic's understanding of real-world mobile living, where appliances need to work well not just when running, but also during the off-season.
Appliances built for the road need to be tough, but the NRX series proves that rugged performance and environmental responsibility don't have to be mutually exclusive. The series uses eco-friendly refrigerant to deliver high-performance cooling while meeting the latest environmental regulations.
This feature highlights a welcome shift in the industry, allowing you to explore the outdoors with a lighter conscience. The newer models use R1234YF refrigerant combined with vacuum insulation panels (VIP) for improved performance—technology that benefits both efficiency and environmental impact.
Through intelligent design and smarter use of materials, Dometic has reduced the overall weight of the NRX refrigerators. This makes them easier on your vehicle while still being built to withstand the vibrations and demands of travel. The bevelled rear side design also ensures optimal utilisation of space on board, maximising storage potential in tight installations.
Every gram matters in mobile applications, especially for smaller campervans where payload limits are a constant consideration. The lighter construction of the NRX series helps you carry more of what matters—whether that's water, gear, or simply keeping your vehicle within legal weight limits.
The NRX series is designed for straightforward installation with features that adapt to virtually any layout:
From the elegant frameless door with full-width handle to the LED-lit interior with IR sensor, the NRX series exudes quality. The rearrangeable shelves, dual crisper drawers, bottle holders, and door trays make organisation effortless. A new secure locking mechanism clicks firmly into place, giving you peace of mind that the door will remain shut while you're bouncing down rough tracks.
The touch control panel with integrated LED light bar provides intuitive operation and visual feedback on compressor status, making it easy to monitor and adjust your fridge at a glance.
The NRX series comes in four distinct model variants, each designed for specific applications and user requirements. Understanding these differences will help you choose the perfect model for your needs.
| Model | Best For | Front Panel | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| NRX-E | Budget-conscious buyers | Black | Entry-level, DC only |
| NRX-C | RVs, campervans, caravans | Dark Silver/Grey | Most popular, full features |
| NRX-S | Marine/boat installations | Stainless Steel 316 | Premium marine-grade finish |
| NRX-T | Commercial/truck installs | Dark Grey VCM | Extra-rugged, bare wire DC |
The NRX-E is the entry-level model in the range, featuring a sleek black front panel with a plastic handle. While it shares the core energy-efficient compressor technology with its siblings, the E series is DC-only (12/24V) with bare wire connection for direct battery wiring. It's an excellent choice for buyers who want Dometic quality at a more accessible price point, though it doesn't include the freezer functionality found in the C and S models.
The NRX-C represents the sweet spot in the range and is Dometic's most popular model. Featuring an elegant dark silver/grey front panel, the C series includes the full 3-in-1 cooling solution with removable freezer compartment. It operates on 12/24V DC with bare wire connection, and optional AC adapters are available for hookup use. This is the model most campervan, motorhome, and caravan owners will choose—models like the Dometic NRX 50C and Dometic NRX 60C are particularly popular choices.
Designed specifically for marine applications, the NRX-S features a premium stainless steel 316 fully-flush front panel—the marine-grade stainless that resists corrosion in saltwater environments. This series is built to withstand the unique demands of life on the water while delivering the same exceptional efficiency and features as the C series. Available in both DC and AC/DC configurations, the S series is the go-to choice for boat owners who demand premium quality and durability.
The NRX-T is engineered for professional and commercial vehicle installations where durability is paramount. Featuring a dark grey VCM door panel with a PP outer case, the T series is DC-only with bare wire connection designed for direct wiring to the battery. This extra-rugged build handles the constant vibrations and demanding conditions of commercial transport while maintaining the energy efficiency that makes the NRX series stand out.
The NRX series is available in six different sizes to fit a wide range of vehicles, from small campervans to large motorhomes and yachts. Here's a breakdown of the available capacities:
| Model | Total Capacity | Fridge | Freezer |
|---|---|---|---|
| NRX 35 | 32 litres | ~28L | ~4L |
| NRX 50 | 44-46 litres | ~40L | ~4.4L |
| NRX 60 | 55-58 litres | ~49L | ~6.4L |
| NRX 80 | 75-78 litres | ~69L | ~6-8L |
| NRX 115 | 113-116 litres | ~105L | ~8-9L |
| NRX 130 | 126 litres | ~118L | ~8.2L |
Remember, when the freezer compartment is removed, the entire capacity becomes available for refrigeration or can be used as a full-sized freezer unit, giving you even more flexibility depending on your needs.
For those who want to dive into the technical details, here are the key specifications that matter:
If you currently have a Dometic CRX fridge (such as the Dometic CRX80 or Dometic CRX110), you might be wondering whether upgrading to the NRX series is worthwhile. Here's what's changed:
| Feature | CRX Series | NRX Series |
|---|---|---|
| Energy Efficiency | Good | 9-25% better |
| Removable Freezer | No | Yes (3-in-1 cooling) |
| Operating Modes | Basic | Eco/Performance/Silent |
| Touch Controls | Basic panel | Integrated touch panel with LED |
| Interior Lighting | Standard | LED with IR sensor |
| Design | Grey finish | Modern frameless door |
| Compatibility | - | Fits most CRX cutouts |
The good news is that NRX fridges are largely backwards compatible with CRX installations, though there may be minor dimensional differences. If you're replacing an existing CRX, measure carefully and check the specifications before ordering.
The NRX series is ideal for:
The Dometic NRX series represents more than just an incremental upgrade—it's a fundamental rethinking of what a mobile refrigerator can be. By focusing on real-world problems faced by travellers, Dometic has created a range that enhances the entire off-grid experience.
The true innovation isn't any single feature but a holistic approach where efficiency, flexibility, and sustainability work together toward a single goal: greater independence. Whether you choose the economical E series, the popular C series, the marine-ready S series, or the commercial-grade T series, you're getting refrigeration technology that's been thoughtfully designed for life on the move.
As one Dometic engineer put it, the goal was to create a product with "everything you need and nothing you don't." In a world where mobile living is becoming increasingly popular, that minimalist philosophy is exactly what adventurers are looking for.
Ready to upgrade your mobile refrigeration? Browse our range of Dometic NRX refrigerators and find the perfect model for your next adventure.
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