First, measure the space, allowing for ventilation, the door swing and room to remove the drawers. Then choose how much space you need for fresh and frozen food based on how often you shop. A table-top fridge is a good choice if a low height is your priority and you rarely freeze food. A compact fridge freezer is better if you need a separate freezer compartment, provided its height and depth fit your kitchen. In a studio or open-plan kitchen, check the stated noise level too, but always follow the installation instructions for your specific model rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all clearance.
If you’re looking for a low or narrow appliance to keep everyday food fresh, consider a table-top fridge. Que Choisir highlights these as a good option for studio flats. Check the depth too, and make sure there’s enough space around the appliance.
A single-door fridge with a small freezer compartment may suit occasional use for frozen food or ice cubes. Check the capacity and features of the compartment before relying on it for regular storage.
If you store more food and regularly use frozen products, look at the separate capacities of a compact fridge freezer. Its height, depth and door swing must still fit your kitchen.
First, choose the balance of fridge and freezer space that suits your shopping habits. Then check that the format you’ve chosen will fit in the space you can actually use.
Consider it if: you have limited height and mainly store fresh food.
Bear in mind: storage capacity is more limited, and some models don’t have a freezer compartment.
Consider it if: you want a separate freezer for regular frozen food storage while keeping the width in check.
Bear in mind: the appliance is taller, and its depth and door swing must also fit.
| Feature | What to check before buying | Who is it for? |
|---|---|---|
| Size and room to move | Measure the height, width and depth, allowing for the clearances specified in the manual. Check the door swing and that the drawers can be removed. | In a narrow kitchen, I want to be able to open the fridge without blocking the way or getting in the way of a cupboard. Around 36% of consumers would make this their top priority. |
| Fridge and freezer capacity | Compare the capacities of the two compartments separately, and check the freezing performance for your needs. | If I shop less often or regularly keep frozen food, freezer space matters just as much as fridge space; around 29% of consumers would put this storage at the top of their list. |
| Noise | Compare the stated noise levels in dB(A) on the product specifications and labels of the models you’re considering. | When my kitchen opens onto my living or sleeping area, I want to consider the everyday noise. This comfort would be the main concern for around 21% of consumers. |
| Setting up and everyday use | Check the instructions for your model after transport, as well as the energy-use information on its label. | On moving day, I need to plan how to store food before switching the appliance on, and make an informed choice for everyday use; around 14% of consumers would prioritise these points. |
An appliance might fit into the space but still not have enough room for ventilation, opening the door or removing the drawers.
Mark out the appliance’s full dimensions on your kitchen plan and allow for the clearances specified in its manual. Beko’s recommended 5 cm on each side and at the back isn’t a rule that applies to every model.
Beko’s specifications list 13 L of freezer capacity for the TSE1234FSN and 87 L for the RCSA270K40SN fridge freezer. These models offer very different amounts of storage.
Work out how much space you need for frozen food, then compare the usable capacities and freezing features of the models you’re considering separately.
You should follow the manufacturer’s instructions when setting up the appliance. This may mean making alternative arrangements for storing food on moving day.
Check your model’s manual. In its installation advice, Beko recommends leaving the appliance upright and unplugged for 4 hours after installation. Don’t apply this waiting time to another brand without checking its instructions.
The label helps you compare energy use and noise, but it doesn’t tell you by itself whether the compartments or dimensions will suit your needs.
Read it alongside the separate usable capacities, stated noise level, dimensions and installation requirements for the model.
Beko’s French range includes table-top fridges and 54 cm-wide fridge freezers to consider if you have limited width.
The KTR15NWEB is an example of a table-top fridge to consider if you want fresh food storage without an integrated freezer.
The KTe550 gives you an example of the dimensions and stated noise level of a table-top fridge.
These models offer several ways to equip a small kitchen: fridge freezers with a separate freezer, single-door fridges and compact table-top models. First, choose according to your storage needs, then check the installation dimensions of each model.
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Worth considering if you want to keep frozen food separate from fresh food in a kitchen with limited width.
Stated width of 54 cm; 153 L for the fridge and 74 L for the freezer. The model name specifies a reversible door and Low Frost system.
Check the model’s documentation for its height, depth, clearances and door swing.
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Worth considering if you want a separate freezer and have enough height for a fridge freezer.
Stated height of 150 cm, reversible door, Low Frost system and stated noise level of 39 dB.
Also measure the width and depth, and check the ventilation clearances and door-opening space required for this model. The stated noise level doesn’t guarantee that it will be inaudible.
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Worth considering if you need more storage and have room for a tall fridge freezer in your kitchen.
Energy rating D is specified in the product name. Check the total capacity on the product page before choosing this model.
Also check the height, depth, space in front of the appliance and the clearances specified in its manual.
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Worth considering if you mainly store fresh food and have a narrow space to fill.
The product name specifies a freezer compartment, a footprint of 0,22 m² and an energy rating of E.
If you buy frozen food, check the capacity and features of the freezer compartment. Also measure the height and depth, and allow space to open the door.
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Worth considering if space is tight and you only need to store small amounts of food.
The product name specifies a table-top format and an energy rating of E.
If you plan to store frozen food in it, check the features of the freezer compartment. Also read the instructions for defrosting, ventilation and opening the door.
Measure the available height, width and depth, then check the clearances required in the model’s manual, the space in front of the appliance, the door swing and room to remove the drawers. The 5 cm on each side and at the back mentioned in Beko’s advice doesn’t replace the instructions for the fridge you choose.
Follow the instructions for the model that has been transported. Beko advises leaving its appliances upright and unplugged for 4 hours after installation. Make temporary arrangements for storing food if your appliance’s instructions say to wait before switching it on.
Compare their stated noise levels in dB(A) on the product specifications and labels, taking into account where the appliance will be in relation to your living space. ADEME describes the energy label as a tool for comparing appliances, including information on energy use and noise. A compact size alone doesn’t mean a fridge will be quiet.
Keep the exact model reference, proof of purchase and manual. They’ll help you find the care instructions and identify the appliance if you need to request a service. Check with the retailer and manufacturer for the terms that apply to the model you choose.