Velit 2000R vs Dometic RTX2000: Best 12V A/C for Sprinter Vans
When I was looking for a AC unit for my Sprinter van, I was stuck between the Velit 2000R vs Dometic RTX2000. This was a very difficult decision because I wanted the best product for my money and these things are not cheap! If you are weighing between these two AC units, continue on to learn everything you need to know to make a confident decision!
Why you should care
A rooftop A/C is one of the most expensive—and livability-boosting—upgrades in any van build. Even the “budget” 12-V models run north of $1000. Choose wrong and you’re stuck with noise, short runtime, or a gaping hole that doesn’t fit the next unit.
The two front-runners for 2025 are the Velit 2000R and the Dometic RTX 2000. This guide compares them spec-by-spec so you can invest with confidence.
What is a BTU?
A British Thermal Unit (BTU) is the heat needed to raise one pound of water by 1 °F. A/C makers quote BTU per hour; more BTU means faster cooling—but usually higher amp draw if the system isn’t efficient.
Velit 2000R vs Dometic RTX2000
| Spec (12 V version) | Velit 2000R | Dometic RTX 2000 |
|---|---|---|
| Cooling capacity | ✅ 8 000 BTU (2.3 kW) | 6 824 BTU |
| Compressor | Twin-cylinder DC rotary, Bluetooth app | ✅ Variable-speed inverter scroll |
| Voltage options | ✅ 12 V, 24 V, 48 V models | 12 V only |
| Exterior profile (H) | ✅ 7.1 in low-profile | 12.1 in |
| Weight | ✅ 66 lbs | 70.6 lbs |
| Cut-out | ✅ Fits standard 14 × 14 in roof opening | RV kit required |
| Power Draw (Eco) | 250–300 W | ✅ 230 W |
| MSRP (2025) | ✅ ≈ $1830 | ≈ $2400 |
| Warranty (US) | 1 yr (Velit) | ✅ 2 yr limited (Dometic) |
Where each unit shines
1. Cooling power & efficiency
- Velit 2000R: ~17 % more BTU but only 20 A in Eco—impressive.
- RTX 2000: industry-low 19 A Eco = ≈ 8 h on a 200 Ah lithium bank (80 % usable).
| Runtime (200 Ah LiFePO₄) | Velit Eco | RTX Eco |
|---|---|---|
| Hours | ~7 h | ~8.3 h |
2. Roof profile & stealth
Velit’s 7-inch height keeps you under most 10-ft bridges even with a rack and solar tilt mounts.
3. Installation friction
- Velit drops into a standard 14 × 14 in fan cut-out—no sheet-metal surgery.
- RTX requires a truck-style aperture or adapter; shops charge 2–3 extra labor hours.
4. Voltage flexibility
Velit ships in 24 V and 48 V versions—no DC-DC losses if you run higher-voltage batteries.
5. Noise & comfort
Both sit mid-40 dB (Eco) / high-50 dB (Boost). Lab tests show RTX is ~2 dB quieter thanks to its inverter scroll compressor.
6. Service & parts
Dometic’s 70 + US service centers stock RTX spares. Velit stocks in WA but fewer RV techs carry parts.
7. Price & total cost
Velit saves ≈ $1 500 up front—enough for two extra 100 Ah lithium batteries.
Final call
- Pick Velit 2000R for the best BTU-per-dollar, stealthy 7-inch profile, and 24/48-V flexibility.
- Pick Dometic RTX 2000 for whisper-quiet nights, proven dealer support, and the longest Eco runtime.
Either unit—paired with the right lithium bank—turns a sweltering Sprinter into an off-grid oasis.
