While Arctic Air and True Refrigeration both manufacture durable refrigeration products constructed of quality materials, they serve different operational needs. Arctic Air delivers a cost-effective line that offers straightforward designs for operators who need dependable performance on a budget, while True Refrigeration focuses on heavy-duty construction and strong warranty coverage for high-volume kitchens. The best choice depends on how the equipment will be used in your operation.
Comparison Snapshot
Arctic Air vs. True Refrigeration
Category
Arctic Air
True
Overview
Cost-effective refrigeration with reliable performance and simple design suited for low- to moderate-volume kitchens
Premium refrigeration with durable, heavy-duty construction designed for high-volume kitchens and long-term performance
Typical Price Range
$$
$$$
Strengths
Reliable performance in low- to moderate-volume kitchens
Heavy-duty durability in high-volume kitchens
Considerations
Suited for lower-volume use rather than continuous, high-demand kitchens
Higher upfront cost compared to value-focused brands, better suited for long-term investments
Best For
Smaller or low-volume kitchens and budget-conscious operators
High-volume kitchens and durability-focused operations
About Arctic Air
Founded in 1995, Arctic Air delivers affordable refrigeration products to American and Canadian markets. Its products are constructed of stainless steel and tested for 13 hours before being shipped. Arctic Air offers reach-in and undercounter units, prep tables, chef bases, and back-bar coolers.
Key Strengths:
Reliable, quality products at budget-friendly prices
Fast temperature recovery time
Ease of maintenance
About True
True's legacy began in 1946, when the Trulaske family manufactured an upright freezer in their home, establishing what is now one of the largest refrigeration companies in the United States. True is known for its high-quality, durable range of products, including refrigerators, merchandisers, bakery and deli cases, and milk coolers. Today, the company is still family owned and widely recognized in kitchens for energy-efficient designs and long-lasting performance.
Key Strengths:
Industry-leading 7-year warranty
Stainless steel construction
Energy efficient, environmentally friendly refrigerants
Key Differences Explained
Both brands deliver reliable performance, but their differences are most evident in how they handle varying kitchen demands. These distinctions help guide which option fits your operation.
Performance and Reliability
Both Arctic Air and True feature dependable products. Arctic Air offers reliable performance with a focus on affordability and efficiency, using high-grade stainless steel in its straightforward designs. True is a highly durable, workhorse option with heavy-duty construction engineered with oversized systems and larger compressors to withstand the demands of a high-volume kitchen.
Design and Ease of Use
True units feature heavy-duty, oversized designs built for demanding kitchens, with stainless steel interiors and exteriors, precise digital controls, and condenser coils offering 20 to 40 percent more surface area to enable cooling efficiency. Arctic Air units provide stainless steel exteriors with epoxy-coated aluminum interiors, simple digital displays, locking casters, rounded interior corners, and bottom-mounted condensers designed for straightforward access and cleaning.
Price and Value
Typically lasting around 10 years, Arctic Air units deliver reliable, cost-effective refrigeration suited for budget-conscious operators. True Refrigeration has a higher upfront cost, which is supported by its durable construction and energy-efficient design; with proper maintenance, its units are known to last as long as 20 years. It also offers strong warranties on parts, labor, and compressors.
Which Brand Is Best For You?
Scenario
Best Choice
Why
High-Volume Operations
True
Durable construction and oversized evaporators and compressors ensure interior temperatures quickly return to safe levels
Small or Startup Businesses
Arctic Air
Dependable refrigeration suited for operations prioritizing lower upfront costs or more limited use
Ease of Maintenance
Arctic Air
Simple designs with bottom-mounted or front-accessible condensers for simple maintenance; rounded interior edges enable efficient cleanup
Long-Term Investment
True
Heavy-duty construction and extended lifespan support long-term reliability and reduced service needs
When deciding between Arctic Air and True Refrigeration, consider kitchen volume, durability needs, maintenance preferences, and budget. Both brands deliver dependable options in small or startup operations and high-volume, continuous kitchens. Choosing between them comes down to operational priorities and how each unit aligns with your specific needs.
Shop Arctic Air & True Refrigeration at KaTom
KaTom carries a wide selection of Arctic Air and True Refrigeration refrigerators and freezers. Shop Arctic Air prep tables, True reach-in refrigerators, or compare similar items to find the right fit for your needs.
