Someone living in a studio with limited space
If the appliance needs to fit in a kitchenette or under a worktop, measure the space before choosing its capacity. Conforama offers small fridges for studios and student rooms.
Who is this choice for?
Someone who keeps a few frozen foods
A small freezer compartment may suit your needs, but its capacity is separate from the space available for fresh food. Compare the two capacities separately: Beko France and Bosch Électroménager France list them for the relevant models.
Someone who works or sleeps near the appliance
In a living space or quiet office, check the model’s stated noise level as well as its dimensions and annual energy consumption. The dB(A) figure helps you compare product specifications, but doesn’t guarantee how loud it will seem where you place it.
What should you check?
First make sure the appliance will fit in the space you have available. Then check that the balance between fridge and freezer space suits what you want to store.
| Criterion | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Footprint and fridge capacity | Measure the available width, height and depth, then compare them with the appliance’s external dimensions and fridge capacity. | In a small kitchenette, I want the appliance to fit without compromising on the space I need for fresh food. Around 42% of consumers rank footprint and fresh-food capacity as their top priorities. |
| Freezer compartment | Check whether it has one, its capacity in litres and how much space remains for refrigeration. | If I keep a few frozen foods, I need a suitable compartment rather than an appealing total capacity that doesn’t tell the whole story. For around 33% of consumers, having a freezer is the top priority. |
| Noise and energy consumption | Compare the stated noise level in dB(A) and the kWh/year figures for models with similar features and capacities. | When the appliance is near my bed or desk, I consider both its noise and its annual energy consumption. Around 25% of consumers prioritise these two factors. |
Mistakes to avoid
-
Assuming the total capacity is all fridge space
According to Beko France, the TSE1284N has a total capacity of 114 L: 101 L for refrigeration and 13 L for freezing. So the total figure doesn’t represent the space available for fresh food.
Compare the capacity of each compartment, and only choose a freezer if you plan to use it.
-
Measuring the width only
A cube and a table-top fridge can differ considerably in height and depth. For example, Bosch Électroménager France lists dimensions of 850 × 560 × 580 mm for the KTL15NWEB table-top model.
Measure all three dimensions of the space, then check the external dimensions of the exact model you’re considering.
-
Relying on the word “quiet” alone
In a room you spend time in, a marketing description is no substitute for the stated noise level. Even that figure can’t guarantee how loud the appliance will sound once installed.
Compare the dB(A) figures, airborne acoustical noise emission class and annual energy consumption of the models you’re considering.
-
Assuming delivery services are the same everywhere
Access to your home, your address and the seller all affect how delivery, installation and possible collection of an old appliance are arranged.
Before ordering, enter your address and check the arrangements available for each of these services.
Brands to consider for these formats
Beko
Beko France’s table-top range includes models with a freezer compartment, worth comparing if you’ll be using the fridge regularly in a studio.
- According to Beko France, the TSE1284N offers 101 L of fridge capacity and 13 L of freezer capacity, with a reversible door.
- Its total capacity of 114 L isn’t all available for fresh food. Its figures of 36 dB and 137 kWh/year apply to this model only.
Bosch
The KTL15NWEB table-top fridge is an option to consider if you want an integrated freezer compartment and an open-door alarm.
- Bosch Électroménager France lists 106 L of fridge capacity, a noise level of 39 dB and dimensions of 850 × 560 × 580 mm.
- Its width of 56 cm needs to be checked against your available space; check the freezer compartment capacity separately.
Candy
Candy is one of the table-top options to look at if you’re comparing layouts with a freezer compartment.
- For the COT1S45EW, Darty lists automatic defrosting for the fridge and manual defrosting for the freezer.
- Darty lists energy consumption of 141 kWh/year for this model. Compare this figure with those for specific models offering similar features and capacities.
FAR
Conforama’s FAR range includes a cube fridge designed for refrigeration in a small space.
- Conforama lists a capacity of 43 L for the RKUB26 G cube fridge, with no freezer compartment.
- This capacity suits a limited amount of drinks and fresh food. Check how much space you’ll need if you want to store several days’ worth of shopping.
Small fridges on Joybuy
These compact models meet refrigeration needs in a studio, bedroom or office. Two have a freezer section; the Sonlu model is for those who prioritise fresh food.
Image unavailable
TCL RF60DWE0FR, 45 L mini fridge
For keeping drinks and a few food items in a small space, with a freezer compartment to consider depending on how you’ll use it. The product name indicates an E energy rating, a toughened glass shelf and adjustable feet. Check the freezer capacity and performance, as well as the annual energy consumption, on the listing for the model being sold.
Image unavailable
Sonlu CS-100L, 82 L single-door fridge
Worth considering if you want to use the space for fresh food rather than frozen items. The product name indicates a capacity of 82 L and an E energy rating. Check the external dimensions before setting aside a space for it.
Image unavailable
CHiQ JR92DSE, 92 L fridge with freezer
Worth a look if you want a freezer section in a compact single-door fridge. The product name indicates a capacity of 92 L and an E energy rating. Check the capacity of each compartment, the external dimensions and the stated noise level before choosing where to put it.
Frequently asked questions
How do you compare the capacity of a cube and a table-top fridge?
First compare their external dimensions, then check the capacity actually set aside for refrigeration. Conforama lists a capacity of 43 L with no freezer for the FAR RKUB26 G cube fridge, while Beko France lists 101 L of fridge capacity and 13 L of freezer capacity for the TSE1284N table-top model.
Do you need a freezer in a studio?
A freezer is useful if you want to keep ice cubes or frozen food. If fresh food is your priority, compare the fridge capacity of models with and without a freezer, and check the capacity of each compartment.
Does the dB(A) noise level tell me what I’ll hear at home?
No. It’s a stated figure that’s useful for comparing models, but it can’t accurately predict how loud the appliance will sound in your room. Beko France lists 36 dB for the TSE1284N, and Bosch Électroménager France lists 39 dB for the KTL15NWEB. Also consider how close it will be to your bed or desk.
What should I look for on the energy label?
When choosing a small fridge, compare the energy rating, annual consumption in kWh/year, capacity by compartment and noise information. The European Commission regulates energy labelling for refrigeration appliances. Compare figures for models with similar features and capacities.
How can I arrange for my old fridge to be taken away in France?
Before ordering, ask the seller what collection arrangements apply to your purchase and address, particularly if your new appliance is being delivered to your home. Check the delivery and installation terms separately. The DGCCRF has reported cases of online retailers failing to meet their obligation to take back old appliances.