The compressor is a critical part, but only one part. I use a Unique fridge (name brand - they are available at Costco from time to time and Home Depot). It's a fantastic fridge that uses the same Danfoss compressor common in the Engels/ARBs/SnoMasters. It's Bluetooth controlled so it's easy to adjust temperatures and such, and can go from fridge temps to -30 C if I ask it to. It's a bit heavy on the power - about 30 Amp Hours for 24 hours in 25 degree weather - but it's a nice, big, dual-zone unit and it came at the right price (under $800).
However, the best compressor in the world is irrelevant if the electronics that control the compressor go on the fritz. In my case, I had a voltage spike (man-made - I flipped my master disconnect on, then off, too quickly) and as a result I caused some kind of an issue in the fridge's control board. The folks at Unique were great - they sent out a replacement right away and even rushed the shipping - and it wasn't too expensive at $140.00 for the repair. The tough thing about this electronic failure is that the fridge didn't stop working - it just wouldn't stay on its set temperature. I'd set it at 4 degrees, and wake up to it being -25. I'd set it for -25, and wake up to it being +10. The compressor cycled on an off as it should, but it became impossible to set the temp reliably.
But, I suspect that a lot of the stories you are hearing about these fridges that have lasted 20 or 30 years may not be the norm now, as so many manufactures are introducing things like bluetooth and fancier control modules, and I suspect that is a likely common failure area. So, another consideration for you beyond compressor: Who stocks the control boards? You will have better luck with an ARB or Engel, just because of the volume they sell means parts are more accessible, than you will with a more niche brand.
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