norcold vs. arb?

[Elijah]

Are there any differences at all, besides the cosmetics, between these two fridge/freezers?? I understand that Norcold makes the ARB but did they do anything different to it that isn't on the Norcold?

 

[FirstToy]

I believe the Norcold, ARB and Engel are the exact same fridge w/ different looks.

 

[dogboy2]

Can't vouch for the Norcold, but the ARB and the Engel are manufactured in Japan by the same company. From a technology standpoint, the two are virtually identical, if not outright the same.

Haven't personally seen the Norcold, but it would stand to reason that if it too is made by the same parent company, it probably is very similar if again, not identical, to the other two. But I'm merely speculating at this point -- take it for what it's worth.

-dogboy- '87 FJ60

 

[firetruck41]

Norcold is made by the same manufacturer as ARB/Engel, they are virtually identical, I would just get whichever one was a better deal.

 

[Exiled]

ARB has a digital thermometer read, the Engels imported into the US are not.

 

[Cruiserdrew]

I believe the Norcold, ARB and Engel are the exact same fridge w/ different looks.

I think this is right. They are basically the same, so buy from someone you want to support. I got mine from Mudrak, but there are many other sources.

 

[Montana Cruiser]

I've had both and they were exactly the same besides the paint color and name plate on the lid. The newer ARB's have a little digital thermometer and the Norcold/Engels do not. Find the best price you can from the company you want to support and be done with it. You'll wonder how you got along without one

 

[wesintl]

Keep in mind the Digital thermometer is in C* only. Not that big a deal but should be mentioned.

 

[expeditionswest]

I have owned all three (ARB, Norcold and Engel), and they are exactly the same. As mentioned above, buy from the reseller you want to support.