When fitting out a new kitchen, first choose a fridge that fits the space and meets the installation requirements in its manual. A table-top fridge suits a very tight space, a single-door model prioritises fridge capacity, a fridge-freezer combines fresh and frozen storage, while a multi-door model needs more room. Then compare compatible models by the capacity of each compartment and their annual energy consumption, without assuming that the same ventilation clearance works for every model.
A table-top fridge can fit into a compact space, particularly beneath a compatible worktop. However, check its capacity and whether it has a freezer compartment: some models, such as the Beko TSE1504FN featured by Beko France, do not.
A fridge-freezer brings both into one appliance. Compare the capacity of each compartment based on how much fresh and frozen food you buy; for example, the Whirlpool WHC18T132FR product details list 182 L of fridge space and 68 L of freezer space.
A multi-door fridge-freezer may suit larger shops, provided your kitchen and delivery access can accommodate its size. Check the layout of the compartments and the model’s annual energy consumption too, rather than choosing on capacity alone.
Consider it: when space is very limited and your storage needs are modest.
Bear in mind: capacity is limited and, depending on the model, freezer space may be small or unavailable.
Consider it: when fridge space matters more than having a built-in freezer.
Bear in mind: this style may not suit regular frozen-food shopping; check the compartment on the model you choose.
Consider it: when you need to keep fresh and frozen food in one appliance.
Bear in mind: the total capacity is split between two compartments, and the proportions vary by model.
Consider it: when you need plenty of storage and have a suitable space in your kitchen.
Bear in mind: its larger size needs to be checked against your access routes, room dimensions and the model’s energy consumption.
| Consideration | What to check | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Installation and ventilation | Measure the space and check how far the doors open. For a built-in model, compare the housing, hinges and air vents with the exact model’s manual. | If my kitchen is already fitted, I need to be able to install the appliance without altering the unit or restricting ventilation; around 33% of shoppers prioritise this compatibility. |
| Space for frozen food | Compare the fridge and freezer capacities in litres separately, and check whether the appliance actually has a freezer compartment. | I regularly buy frozen food and want to store it in the same appliance as fresh food; this split in capacity comes first for around 27% of shoppers. |
| Compact size | Compare the external dimensions with the usable capacity, and check whether the style you choose includes a freezer. | In a very small kitchen, I prioritise the space the appliance leaves free, even if that means less storage; around 20% of shoppers prioritise compactness. |
| Everyday use | When comparing appliances that meet the same capacity needs, check each model’s stated annual energy consumption in kWh and noise level. | If my kitchen opens onto the living area, I want to compare compatible appliances by their noise and energy consumption; these everyday-use factors come first for around 20% of shoppers. |
The housing, hinges, door panel and air circulation can all prevent installation, even if the width looks right. For the installation it describes, a Liebherr manual specifies a rear air channel of at least 38 mm and ventilation openings of at least 200 cm²; these measurements do not apply to every model.
Read the installation manual for the model you have chosen and check every requirement against your actual kitchen unit before ordering.
A table-top fridge may not have a freezer, while a fridge-freezer’s total capacity is split between the two compartments. The total number of litres therefore does not tell you how much frozen food you can store.
Check the fridge and freezer capacities separately, then compare them with your usual shopping.
An appliance might fit in its final position but be difficult to get through the doors, hallway or lift. The advertised capacity also does not replace comparing annual energy consumption.
Measure the delivery route and installation space, then compare energy consumption across models with similar storage capacity.
An energy rating does not tell you everything about capacity, annual energy consumption or noise. ADEME describes the energy label as a guide to help you choose, to be considered alongside the model’s specifications.
Check annual kWh consumption, the capacity of each compartment and the noise level before comparing appliances of a similar style.
A brand to consider for freestanding table-top fridges, with or without a freezer compartment depending on the model.
A brand to consider for a built-in single-door fridge when compatibility with your kitchen unit is crucial.
A brand to consider for fridge-freezers, particularly when the split between compartments matters more than the total capacity.
A brand to consider for multi-door models if your kitchen can accommodate a larger appliance.
These multi-door and fridge-freezer models combine fridge and freezer storage. Once you have checked the available space, compare the capacity of each compartment and the features that matter in your kitchen before choosing between them.
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Worth considering if you are looking for plenty of storage with a built-in freezer and have enough room for a multi-door appliance.
Four doors, advertised total capacity of 467 L, E energy rating and a feature called Total No Frost. Check the dimensions, delivery route and clearances specified in the manual.
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Worth considering if you want to keep fresh and frozen food in one fridge-freezer.
Advertised total capacity of 333 L, A energy rating and a feature called No Frost. Compare the capacity of each compartment with your shopping needs, and check the installation space against the model’s manual.
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Worth considering if you want a fridge-freezer with a bottom-mounted freezer for your fresh and frozen food shopping.
Advertised total capacity of 282 L and E energy rating. Check the capacity of each compartment, the dimensions and the model’s ventilation requirements.
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Worth considering if you are looking for a relatively narrow fridge-freezer without giving up freezer space.
Advertised width of 54 cm, with 153 L of fridge space and 74 L of freezer space; E energy rating, reversible door and a feature called Low Frost. Before deciding, also check the model’s height, clearances and annual energy consumption.
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Worth considering if you need less storage but still want space for both fresh and frozen food.
Advertised total capacity of 174 L, reversible door and a feature called Low Frost. Check the dimensions and installation clearances, then consult the energy label to compare annual energy consumption and noise levels.
No: the clearances and air vents depend on the model and kitchen unit. For the installation it describes, a Liebherr manual specifies a rear air channel of at least 38 mm and ventilation openings of at least 200 cm²; check the manual for your own model rather than using these measurements.
Compare annual energy consumption in kWh and the noise level, then check that the capacity of each compartment meets your needs. ADEME describes the energy label as a guide to help you choose; you should still check the installation dimensions in the model’s specifications and manual.
Only if the model has a freezer compartment with enough capacity for your needs. For example, Beko France describes its TSE1504FN as a table-top fridge without a freezer, so the style name alone is not enough to decide.
No. Even when a manufacturer describes a model as No Frost, this does not replace its installation, cleaning and maintenance instructions. Check the guidance for the specific model you are considering.