Best Compact Refrigerator Freezer Combo

What is the Best Compact Refrigerator Freezer Combo?

We’ll explore the best compact refrigerator and freezer combinations on the market right now. Then, we’ll help you narrow down your choices with a comprehensive buyer’s guide.

Danby DCR032C1BSLD Compact Refrigerator

Danby DCR032C1BSLD Compact Refrigerator SPECIFICATIONS

• Product Width: 47.47 cm 18.6875″
• Product Depth: 43.18 cm 17 5/8″
• Product Height: 83.03 cm 32.6875″
• Weight: 24.00kg 52.91lb
• 3.2 cu. ft. (L) capacity compact refrigerator
• Energy Star compliant
• Environmentally friendly R600a refrigerant
• Manual defrost system
• 1 full and 1 half width wire shelves in fridge
• Integrated door shelving with tall bottle storage
• CanStor® beverage dispenser
• Mechanical thermostat
• Integrated door handle
• Reversible door hinge
• Smooth back design
• WARRANTY: 18 months parts and labor coverage with in-home service. Installation and/or yearly maintenance (cleaning) are not covered under warranty

This refrigerator-and-freezer combination from Danby has 3.2 cubic feet of space. This particular model is available in stainless steel. Danby has other appliance models available with a variety of colors and amounts of space.

This appliance is compliant with Energy Star ratings. The spotless steel finish on the door prevents smudging, making it ideal for professional areas. The freezer is full-width and has a total loading capacity of ninety-two liters. Integrated door shelving has the capability for tall bottle storage. There’s a user guide available for people who are just learning about the options and features of the appliance.

Pros

• Significant amount of freezer space
• Slide-out removable shelving
• Stands on its own
• Stainless steel avoids smudging
• Included user guide to help people navigate the different features
• Tall bottle storage capabilities
• Energy-star model

Cons

• Lacks adjustable temperature settings
• Not as much refrigerator space as some others on this list
• This particular model is only available in stainless steel

Midea WHD-113FSS1

Midea WHD-113FSS1 SPECIFICATIONS

• Capacity: 3.1 Cu Ft
• Defrost Type: Partial Automatic
• Control Type: Mechanical
• Interior Light
• 2-Liter Bottle Storage
• Can Storage
• Crisper Drawer
• Energy Star Rated
• Energy Certification: UL
• Reversible Door
• Leveling Legs: 2, Front
• Never Clean Condenser
• Door Handle Design: Recessed
• Door Finish: Smooth
• Door Hinge Covers
• Product Dimensions (in) W*D*H: 18.50 in x 19.37 in x 32.95 in
• Product Weight (approx.) (lbs.): 52.20 lbs
• Fresh Food Shelves: 1 Glass, Slide-out
• Fresh Food Door Shelves: 3, 1/2 Width
• Warranty: 1 Year Limited

This model of appliance, made by Midea, is a refrigerator and freezer with a double reversible door. It comes in three colors: white, black, and stainless steel. The fruit and vegetable drawers have been separated. The main compartment does have walls that taper slightly toward the back.

It is Energy Star rated for efficiency and it has a separate freezer compartment. The refrigerator features adjustable temperature ranges. You can change the refrigerator compartment from 32F to 50F. The freezer compartment can be adjusted from 11.2F to 5F. Also featured are adjustable legs, an interior light, and partially automatic defrosting.

Pros

• Adjustable temperature ranges for both the freezer and refrigerator
• Separated fruit and vegetable drawers for easier sorting
• Adjustable legs and reversible door can open on either side
• Partially automatic defrost
• Energy-star model

Cons

• Must be manually defrosted every two to four months
• Size may not be ideal for large kitchens
• Will not run water without a water line

RCA-IGLOO 4.5 Cubic Feet

RCA 4.5 Cubic Feet SPECIFICATIONS

• Stainless steel door
• Low energy consumption
• ENERGY STAR compliant
• Drip tray
• Chiller compartment
• 2 tempered shelves
• 2 horizontal door storage shelves
• 1 vertical door storage bin
• Door gasket
• Reversible door can be fastened on the right or left for optimal placement
• Adjustable thermostat
• Adjustable leveling legs
• CFC-free
• 1-year parts & labor warranty
• Warranty: ONE YEAR
• Item Dimensions (in): 22.75 x 34.75 x 24.25
• Item Weight: 50.70 lbs

This refrigerator comes with a compact capacity of 4.5 cubic feet. Even when the temperature outside is more than 100 degrees Fahrenheit, this compressor manages to cool. It’s an environmentally friendly refrigerator. The freezer is capable of holding two trays of ice cubes with room to spare in the back.

The appliance features a low energy consumption design that helps to cut down on your monthly power bill. It also has a built-in can holder in the door, as well as an invisible door handle. The adjustable legs allow you to fit the refrigerator even into tight spaces. You can also remove and slide out the shelves when you need extra room.

Pros

• Environmentally friendly design consumes a small amount of energy
• Sleek black appearance has an aesthetic appeal
• Able to fit into tight spaces using the adjustable legs

Cons

• Not a lot of freezer space
• Too small to be suitable for large kitchens
• Only available in black; doesn’t have multiple color options

EdgeStar CRF321SS Fridge/Freezer 

EdgeStar CRF321SS Fridge/Freezer SPECIFICATIONS

• Item Weight: 52 pounds
• Product Dimensions: 19.75 x 18.75 x 33.5 inches
• External Dimensions: 33 1/2″ H x 18 3/4″ W x 19 3/4″ D
• Freezer Dimensions: 7 7/8″ H x 14″ W x 14 3/4″ D
• Compressor Step Dimensions: 7 1/8″ H x 15 1/2″ W x 4 3/8″ D
• Refrigerator Dimensions: 18 5/8″ H x 15 1/2″ W x 14 1/2″ D
• Storage: 3.1 cubic foot capacity
• Color: Stainless Steel
• Finish: Glossy
• Material: Stainless Steel
• Temperature Control
• Auto Defrost
• Power: 115 V/ 80 W/ 0.64 A
• Item Package Quantity: 207
• Certification: Energy Star
• Warranty: 90 days labor and 1 year parts

This model of appliance, designed and distributed by EdgeStar, has 3.1 cubic feet of space. It’s perfect for use in a dorm room or small apartment. The freezer is truly zero degrees, despite however warm the outside temperature is.

You can engage in a freestanding installation. The stainless steel doors are reversible. The refrigerator section has automatic defrosting capabilities, although the freezer section requires manual defrost. The shelves can be slid out. It’s an energy-efficient model that has been certified with Energy Star.

Pros

• Perfect for use in dorm rooms and small living areas
• Freestanding installation
• Environmentally friendly and energy-efficient design consumes less power
• Automatic defrosting in the refrigerator section
• Shelves slide out to allow more space
• Energy-star model

Cons

• Freezer requires manual defrosting
• Doesn’t have adjustable legs, so maneuvering might be difficult
• Not a huge amount of space in the freezer compartment

RCA-IGLOO Two-Door Refrigerator/Freezer Combo

RCA Two-Door Refrigerator/Freezer Combo SPECIFICATIONS

• Features: Cans Organizer,LED Lighting,Ice Maker,Humidity Controlled Crisper, LED Lighting, Bottle Storage, Cans Organizer, Adjustable, Beverage Compartment, Cans Organizer, Bottle Storage, Adjustable, Mini, beverage compartment, Ice Maker, Humidity Controlled Crisper
• Finish: ABS
• Item Width: Less Than 25 in.
• Weight: 57lbs.
• Width: 19 in.
• Height: 33 in.
• Installation: Freestanding
• Door Opens: Opens Right
• Product Dimensions: 22x20x34in.
• Defrost Type: Manual Defrost
• Part – Category Main: Kitchen
• Item Package Quantity: 2
• Crisper Type: Humidity-Controlled
• Door Type: Reversible
• Packaged Quantity: 1
• Door Attachment: Reversible Door
• Net Total Capacity: 3.20ft.
• Size Type: Regular
• Energy Star: With Ice Maker
• Capacity: 3.2 cu ft.
• Accessory Type: Bottle
• Warranty Information: 1 YEAR

This refrigerator comes with a storage capacity of 3.2 cubic feet. This particular model is white, although stainless steel and black models are also available. The two-door configuration allows you to access the refrigerator and freezer separately.

The combination refrigerator and freezer features an adjustable thermostat along with compressor cooling capabilities, allowing for maximum performance even in hot temperatures. The flush back design saves space with an acrylic construction. There’s a built-in dispenser for cans along with a door basket for two-liter bottles. Also included is a vegetable drawer that has glass shelves, designed to keep vegetables crisp.

Pros

• Available in black, white, and stainless steel colors
• Space-saving design made from acrylic material
• Built-in can dispenser and door basket
• Vegetable drawer designed to keep vegetables crisp and fresh
• Cooling compressor and adjustable thermostat
• Energy-star model

Cons

• Freezer isn’t as spacious as some other models
• Defrosting must be done manually

Compact Refrigerator: Midea WHS-65LB1

Midea WHS-65LB1 SPECIFICATIONS

• Capacity: 1.6 Cu Ft
• Defrost Type: Manual
• Control Type: Mechanical
• 2-Liter Bottle Storage
• Can Storage
• Energy Star Rated
• Energy Certification Agency: CSA
• Electrical Requirements (v/Hz): 115V/60Hz
• Running Amps: 1.1 A
• Noise Level (dBA): 42.0 dBA
• Safety Certification: UL+CSA
• Energy Certification: UL
• Other: CSA
• Refrigerant: R600a
• Reversible Door
• Leveling Legs: 2, Front
• Clean Back
• Never Clean Condenser
• Door Handle Design: Recessed
• Door Finish: Smooth
• Color: Black
• Door Hinge Covers
• Product Dimensions (in) W*D*H: 18.58″ x 17.72″ x 18.19″
• Product Weight (approx.) (lbs.): 37.44 lbs
• Shelves: 1
• Warranty Parts and Labor: 1 Year Limited

This small refrigerator is a bestseller mostly because it is lightweight and easily fits under a desk. This choice is preferred by those who work in an office.

It has a small freezer, but it is too small to even fit standard ice trays into. However, it is perfect for keeping lunches and a few snacks under your desk.

Pros

• Reversible door
• Lightweight
• Runs quiet
• Energy-star model

Cons

• Extremely small freezer

Midea WHS-160RB1

Midea WHS-160RB1 SPECIFICATIONS

• Capacity: 4.4 Cu Ft
• Control Type: Mechanical
• 2-Liter Bottle Storage
• Can Storage
• Defrost Type: Manual
• Energy Star Rated
• Energy and Safety Certification: UL and CSA
• Electrical Requirements: 115V/60Hz
• Running Amps (A): 1.02 A
• Noise Level (dBA): 42dBA
• Reversible Door
• Leveling Legs: 2, Front
• Clean Back
• Never Clean Condenser
• Door Handle Design: Recessed
• Door Finish: Smooth
• Color: White
• Door Hinge Covers
• Product Dimensions (in) W*D*H: 19.72 in x 21.26 in x 33.86 in
• Product Weight (lbs): 52.86 lbs
• Door Shelves: 3, half-width + 1, full-width
• Warranty Parts and Labor: 1 Year Limited

Another beautiful design by Midea, this appliance has a carrying capacity of 4.4 cubic feet. This particular model is black, but white and stainless steel versions are also available. The refrigerator has been rated according to Energy Star guidelines, and the walls of the main compartment taper slightly toward the back of the refrigerator.

This refrigerator features mechanical temperature adjustment capabilities that range from 32F to 35.6F. There’s a chiller compartment that can keep specified items cooler. The large storage areas can chill beverages and produce, although they cannot be used to store frozen foods or make ice cubes. The reversible door can open from both the left and the right. It has a very tiny freezer, but it will fit two ice cube trays comfortably.

Pros

• Large amount of refrigerator space
• Chiller compartment keeps select items cooler
• Helps to keep produce and other items fresh
• Mechanical temperature adjustment capabilities
• Energy-star model

Cons

• Freezer is not capable of making ice or storing frozen foods
• Chiller compartment is too small to function as an overall freezer
• Designed for use in dorm rooms; not ideal for large kitchens

Bossin 3.2 CU. FT Compact Refrigerator 2 Door MIni Fridge

Bossin 3.2 CU. FT Compact Refrigerator SPECIFICATIONS

• Item Weight: 44.1 pounds
• Product Dimensions: 19.09 x 20.08 x 33.46 inches
• Capacity: 3.2 Cubic Feet
• Form Factor: Compact
• Color: Gray stainless steel
• Door Hinges: Reversible
• Shelves: 3, Glass
• Integrated door shelving with tall bottle storage
• Adjustable Temperature: Refrigerator Compartment 32′ to 50′ F / Freezer Compartment 3′ to -1’F. The temperature can be adjusted 7 positions from cold to coldest.
• Quality assurance service for one year

This combination refrigerator and freezer are designed by Bossin. It’s available in stainless steel and has a carrying capacity of 3.2 cubic feet. The two-door design allows you to access the freezer and refrigerator compartments separately.

The refrigerator features an interior light to allow you to easily find what you’re looking for. The appliance is rated by Bossin and includes an adjustable thermostat control. The door hinges are reversible, so the fridge can be opened from both the left and the right. Overall, the item weighs 44.1 pounds.

Pros

• Separate refrigerator and freezer compartments
• Adjustable temperature controls allow you to maintain your ideal temperature
• Interior light in the refrigerator
• Reversible doors

Cons

• Not a huge amount of freezer space
• Smaller amount of refrigerator space than some other models

Cool CCR26W

Commercial Cool CCR26W Compact Refrigerator and Freezer SPECIFICATIONS

• Product DSimensions: 25” H x 17.5” W x 19.31” D
• Overall Product Weight: 41.9 lb.
• Capacity: 2.6 Cubic Feet
• Door Material: Stainless Steel
• Panel Ready: Yes
• Cooling System: Compressor based
• Installation Type: Freestanding
• Defrost Type: Manual
• Freezer Type: Internal Freezer
• Estimated Yearly Electricity Use (kWh): 238
• Adjustable Temperature: Yes
• Temperature Control Type: Dial
• Adjustable Shelves: 2, Glass
• Door Storage: 2-Liter Bottle Storage; 12 oz. Can Storage
• Handle Type: Recessed
• Plug-In: Yes
• Estimated Yearly Operating Cost: 29
• Supplier Intended and Approved Use: Residential Use
• Country of Origin: China
• Manufacturer Warranty (Parts&Labor): 1 Year

This appliance has only one door rather than two. It’s one of the smallest refrigerator and freezer combinations on this list, with only 2.6 cubic feet of space. This mini-fridge is available in white coloring, though there are similar models in stainless steel finishes.

The fridge features two full-width glass shelves that can be slid out. Also included is a full-width and half-width storage shelf for the door. The can storage area can store up to five aluminum cans. The freezer compartment is half the width of the refrigerator and comes with an ice cube tray. Also featured is a recessed door handle and a flat-back space-saving design.

Pros

• Built-in can storage in the door
• Slide-out shelves in the main compartment
• Built-in shelves in the door
• Freezer compartment includes an ice cube tray
• Compact size makes it perfect for dorms and other small living areas
• Energy-star model

Cons

• Too small to support a large or medium-sized kitchen
• Only one door to access both the refrigerator and freezer compartments
• Freezer is very small, only half the width of the refrigerator

Costway 2-Door Compact Refrigerator

Costway 2-Door Compact Refrigerator SPECIFICATIONS

• Color: Black/Gray/White
• Net weight: 52 lbs
• Overall dimension: 20″ x 17.5″ x 34″ (L x D x H)
• Voltage: AC 120 V/60 Hz
• Power: 65 W
• Capacity: 3.2 cu ft
• Fresh Food Capacity: 2.2 cu. ft.
• Freezer Capacity: 1 cu. ft.
• Refrigerating chamber: 32℉-50℉
• Refrigerant: R600a
• Freezing chamber: ＞5℉
• Door Hinges: Reversible
• 2 Removable Shelves
• Shelf Type: Glass
• Mechanical Control
• Storage Drawer
• Can Dispensers
• Built in Lamp
• Adjustable Thermostat

This compact refrigerator comes with 3.2 cubic feet of space. The small freezer is positioned on top. There are two doors, allowing you to access the refrigerator and freezer separately. 2.2 cubic feet are allocated to the refrigerator, while 1 cubic foot is allocated to the freezer.

The appliance comes with fast cooling technology, which will cool all food evenly and quickly. Ice will be kept frozen while foods are perfectly chilled. There is a crisper drawer included that has the capability to keep both fruits and vegetables fresh. The one glass shelf can be removed or adjusted for easier cleaning and storage of taller items when need be.

Pros

• 2-door capability allows you to access the refrigerator and freezer separately
• 1 cubic foot of space for the freezer, 2.2 cubic feet of space for the refrigerator
• Separate crisping drawer for fruits and vegetables
• Can storage in the door
• One removable glass shelf
• Powerful and quiet energy-efficient performance

Cons

• Potentially small amount of freezer space if you have a large number of frozen goods

Best Compact Refrigerator Without Freezer

Danby DARO17A2BDD Compact Refrigerator Without Freezer

Danby DARO17A2BDD Compact Refrigerator SPECIFICATIONS

• Product Width: 43.18 cm 17-11/16″
• Product Depth: 50.80 cm 20-1/16″
• Product Height: 50.80 cm 20-1/16″
• Weight: 19.50kg 42.99lb
• Loading Capacity: 1.7 cu. ft. 49 Liters
• Compact counter-top all fridge
• Energy Star® compliant
• Environmentally friendly R600a refrigerant
• Automatic defrost
• 1 full width and 1 – 1/2 width removable wire shelves for maximum storage versatility
• Tall bottle storage – great for large soda bottles
• CanStor® beverage dispensing system
• Mechanical thermostat
• Scratch resistent worktop
• Integrated door handle
• Reversible door hinge
• Smooth back design
• WARRANTY: 18 months parts and labour coverage. Installation and/or Yearly Maintenance (cleaning) are not covered under warranty.

This unit was the one we picked as our editor’s choice because it has only one job and it does it well. Danby fridge is only 1.7 cu ft, but space is designed well. It fits easily on a countertop or under a desk.

Also, it has a manual thermostat and a reversible door. It runs quietly, and the best part is that it is Energy Star rated, so it will not run up your electric bill. Even though this one does not have a lot of bells and whistles, we like the way space was designed on the inside.

Pros

• Runs quietly
• Reversible door that opens for left-handed or right-handed entry
• Energy-star model
• Well-designed space

Cons

• A little larger than other compacts with the same internal capacity
• Door designed specifically for pop cans, not useful if you do not consume pop

Whynter BR-091WS Beverage Refrigerator with Lock

Whynter BR-091WS Beverage Refrigerator SPECIFICATIONS

● Capacity: 90 standard 12 oz. can
● Stainless steel trimmed glass door with sleek white cabinet
● Recessed handle provides a flush finish with the door
● Mechanical temperature control with temperature range from high 30ºF – mid 60ºF
● Soft interior LED lighting with on/off switch
● Reversible door (recessed handle is not applicable upon door swing reversal)
● Freestanding setup
● Powerful compressor cooling
● Internal fan-forced circulation for even temperature distribution throughout the cabinet
● Cylinder lock and two keys
● 3 slide-out wire shelves
● Top shelf: 15 can capacity
● Second shelf: 25 can capacity
● Third shelf: 25 can capacity
● Bottom gate: 25 can capacity
● Voltage: 115V /60Hz
● Power: 85 watts / 1.3 Amps
● ETL listed
● Product dimensions: 25″ H x 17″ W x 18.5″ D
● Package dimensions: 28″ H x 21″ W x 23″ D
● Net weight: 48.5 lbs
● Gross weight: 57.5 lbs
*This unit comes with one year limited warranty

This refrigerator can hold 90 standard soda cans and has shelving specifically designed for that purpose. Also, it has a temperature control with a minimum range that is perfect for keeping pop and other drinks at the right temperature. Whynter BR-091WS has an interior light to help you see what you are grabbing at night.

As far as refrigerators designed specifically to hold pop, it had consistent cooling throughout, even with loaded to full capacity. It comes with a cylinder lock that has two keys. We think the glass door makes a nice display.

Pros

• Holds 90-12 ounce soda cans
• Recessed handle provides flush front
• Cylinder like with two keys
• LED light
• Energy-star model

Cons

• Not suitable for anything but soda cans

EdgeStar CRF150SS-1 1.1 Cu Ft Convertible Refrigerator or Freezer

EdgeStar CRF150SS-1 1.1 Cu Ft SPECIFICATIONS

• Voltage/Frequency: AC 115V~60Hz
• Amperage: 1.1 A
• Color: Black Cabinet; Stainless Steel Door
• Installation Type: Free Standing
• Door Hinges: Reversible
• Certification: UL
• Storage Capacity: 1.1 Cu. Ft.
• Refrigerant: R600a, 0.92 oz.
• Freezer Temperature Range: 5° F ~ -11.2° F
• Refrigerator Temperature Range: 32° F ~ 50° F
• Dimensions(Height x Width x Depth): 19 5/16” x 18 11/16” x 17 1/8”
• Net Weight: 37 lbs.
• Warranty: One (1)Year Parts & Ninety (90) Days Labor

This model is extremely compact and will fit literally anywhere. This one was designed to have an adjustable temperature that allows it to use it as either a refrigerator or a freezer. As a freezer, it tended to build up frost a little bit of frost quickly than other compact models. It is locking and has two keys, making it perfect for storing medications or other things that need to be secure.

In our opinion, it would be a great idea to get two of these and stacked one on top of the other. It ran quietly and did not seem to produce much heat. Because you do not have the space taken up by an internal freezer, this gives you a lot more space on the inside.

Pros

• Can work as refrigerator or freezer
• Reversible door
• Has a door lock
• Efficient use of space
• Energy-star model

Cons

• Has a manual defrost when used as a freezer

Compact Refrigerator (With or Without Freezer) Buying Guide

When you’re buying a compact refrigerator and freezer, it’s easy to become overwhelmed. There are so many different options available on the market. Though it might be tempting to pick the one with the lowest price tag and move on, it’s helpful to make your selection process more refined. You’ll want to understand your needs and find an appliance that meets those needs.

Compact Fridges Types

Compact refrigerators come in five basic types, allowing you to choose one that best suits your needs. The following summarizes the five major types of refrigerators and their most suitable use.

Cube Minis

This type of compact fridge is perfect for small spaces. They can easily fit on a countertop, or under a desk. They are generally between 1.5 to 2.1 cu ft on the inside and weigh between 25 and 30 pounds. However, many of them have poor insulation and cannot be expected to do more than cool a few drinks and snacks. Some are not efficient enough to keep meat to the proper temperature and they will not replace a standard refrigerator.

Mid-sized Refrigerator

These units can store a little more than the cube, but they are also a bit more expensive. They range in size from 2.7-4.7 cu ft. They have more shelving and sometimes a freezer compartment. The cooling efficiencies of these refrigerators differ significantly from model to model.

Counter Refrigerator

You will sometimes see these in stores sitting on top of countertops. They are typically over 5 cu ft in size, have more freezer and shelf space, and some contained crispers. These are popular for people in condos and work as well as standard refrigerators at keeping food at the correct temperature, including meat.

2-Door Compact Fridge

These are simply a smaller version of standard refrigerators. They have a separate freezer can department, has auto-defrost, removable shelves, and precise temperature controls. These can hold considerably more items than smaller compacts.

Travel Fridge

Travel refrigerators are small refrigerators that use an alternative power source such as batteries, or the ability to be plugged into a car cigarette lighter. These are only meant for short distances and will place a strain on your vehicle’s engine.

Additional Features to Look For

These are the main types of small fridges, but you need to look around because some of them have additional features that may make them more suitable for your needs.

• Separate Freezer CompartmentThe two main types of freezers in mini-fridges are those that are within the interior space of the refrigerator and those that have a separate freezer like a full-sized refrigerator. Those that are within the interior of the refrigerator can cause unevenness in temperature, with colder areas next to the freezer compartment. They are often okay for making ice but may not keep food frozen adequately. Those with a separate freezer work just like a standard refrigerator and often keep food colder, as well as promote even cooling throughout the rest of the refrigerator compartment.
• Compressed Power Today’s refrigerators work by circulating pressurized coolant around the compartment, rather than by drawing air across coils. The coolant is pressurized and sent through tubes in the walls, absorbing heat as it moves through them. Those that have a compressor may not be as energy-efficient as other types of cooling systems.
• Reversible Door Some of them have hinges that allow the door to be opened from either the left or right. This can be an excellent option for small spaces, or if the refrigerator is in a situation where it will be moved frequently, such as in a dorm room or office.
• Locking Door Some people use this type of fridges to store medication, sensitive, or dangerous materials. Therefore, some of these models come with a locking door to keep these items out of the wrong hands.

Amount of Space

The amount of space available will be one of the first and primary concerns that you’ll need to consider when buying a compact refrigerator. Generally, the amount of space available will be measured in cubic feet. A fridge with less than three cubic feet of space could be considered a mini-fridge. Meanwhile, fridges with more than four cubic feet of space are larger.

You should take the storage capacity and the dimensions of the appliance into account. Measure the space that you’re going to put down the refrigerator so that you know the exact dimensions you’re working with. There’s nothing more frustrating than buying the perfect fridge–only to discover it doesn’t fit in your living space.

You should also judge the amount of space you’ll need to store food. How many frozen foods do you typically have? What about frozen desserts or ice cube trays? How much fresh produce will you be storing in the fridge?

Shelving and Drawers

Similar to the concerns about storage capacity, you should take into account the number of shelves and drawers that the fridge has. Also important is whether or not the shelves can be removed. Not only is this helpful for overall fridge cleaning, but it allows you to customize your fridge space to better suit your needs.

Storage drawers will be a concern if you intend to keep a large amount of fresh produce. If the amount is significant, you might want to invest in a fridge that has two separate drawers for fruits and vegetables.

One often-overlooked aspect of refrigerators and freezers is their door storage capacity. Some doors come with the capability to store multiple soda cans, whereas others have large numbers of additional shelves. You’ll need to assess the types of items you’ll be storing and make a decision based on these factors.

One Door or Two?

Some refrigerators come with one door. When you open this door, you’ll be able to access both the refrigerator and the freezer compartment. In these cases, the freezer tends to be a small compartment built into the overall refrigerator. These types of refrigerators are not ideal if you have a large number of frozen goods to store.

A two-door refrigerator will have separate doors for the refrigerator and freezer compartment. This can help with energy efficiency, and it also helps the freezer to operate independently of the refrigerator.

Many compact refrigerators will come with reversible doors. These doors can be opened from either the right or the left because they feature reversible hinges. They’re ideal when you live in an area with questionable amounts of space.

Cooling Capability of the Freezer

Most fridges will come with some kind of cooling component, which allows them to cool objects efficiently even when external temperatures are high. Depending on the refrigerator’s design, though, the freezer may not have this capacity. Some refrigerators have a chilling compartment that keeps items colder than they would be in the normal fridge compartment, but it’s not sufficient to store frozen goods or ice.

In addition to making sure the freezer is large enough for your goods, you should make sure that it can keep them at an ideal temperature.

Adjustable Thermostats

Some items have a particular temperature requirement for their storage. In these cases, it can be helpful to invest in a refrigerator that has an adjustable thermostat. This allows you to control the internal temperature of your refrigerator and freezer.

You should also see whether there is a manual or automatic defrosting capability. Many refrigerators will come with automatic defrost, while freezers will have to be defrosted manually. If a refrigerator only has partial defrosting capabilities, it will need to be manually defrosted every few months.

Adjustable Legs

Some refrigerators will come with adjustable legs. These can help you control the height of the appliance. They also increase the maneuverability, which is ideal when you’re dealing with tight corners and small living spaces.

Conversely, fridges without these legs can be more easily slid over the ground and into position. The type that’s right for you will vary depending on the floor plan of your living space.

Energy Efficiency

It’s a good idea to search for models that have been certified with Energy Star. An energy-efficient model will save you money on your monthly power bill. In addition, energy-efficient models tend to be quieter than other appliances.

Steps for Choosing the Best Refrigerator

Follow these steps to narrow down the best appliance for you:

• Measure the dimensions of the area that you intend to install the appliance
• Gauge whether you need adjustable legs for easier maneuvering, or whether you’ll have an easier time sliding a flat-bottomed appliance into place
• Give yourself an estimate of the amount of food you’ll be placing in your refrigerator
• Estimate how much of this is fresh produce that will need to be stored in a drawer
• Decide whether you need special features such as can holders in the door
• Gauge the amount of freezer space you need to have
• Decide whether you need to store frozen food and ice, or whether a chiller compartment will be adequate
• Look up the energy efficiency ratings of the appliances you’re considering
• Seek appliances that can accommodate your necessities while fitting into your ideal budget

Conclusion

There you have it, a compact or mini refrigerator can be a great addition to your home, office, dormitory room, or RV. Even though most of them have similar features and appear to be similar, we found that there were vast differences in their performance and ability to do what they are designed to do.

Even though it would seem that having an internal freezer would make it more convenient, we found that in most cases an internal freezer created cold spots and reduced the space significantly. For this reason, we thought that the Danby DARO17A2BDD was the best one on our list. This just feels like a good, sturdy refrigerator and keeps the evenest temperature of those that we examined. We liked that it is well-designed and makes great use of the internal space. The models in this review all make an excellent choice. You just need to decide which one suits your needs the best.