Families doing one big weekly shop
If you store several days’ worth of fresh and frozen food at a time, compare the space allocated to each rather than relying on the total capacity alone.
Who is this choice for?
Households that regularly buy frozen food
Check the freezer’s usable capacity in litres and the layout of its drawers, especially if you buy bulky packs.
Households with a small kitchen or narrow access
Your appliance needs to make it to its final position. Before choosing a large model, measure the doors, hallways and, if applicable, the lift too.
What should you check first?
To choose between a fridge-freezer and a multi-door model, start with your usual shopping, then rule out any models that can’t be delivered and installed in your home.
| Priority | What to check | What I need |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity split | Check the usable capacity in litres of the fridge and freezer separately. Look at the size and layout of the drawers to see whether they’ll fit the packs you buy. | I want enough room for fresh food and my usual amount of frozen food after one big shop, without finding that one compartment is too small. |
| Access to food | Check the layout of the shelves, drawers and doors on the exact model. Make sure large containers and food stored at the back are still easy to reach. | When I’ve put away several days’ worth of shopping, I want to be able to find what I need easily. |
| Energy and maintenance | Compare the capacities and annual energy consumption in kWh/year shown on the model’s label. Check its defrosting system and how much usable space there is inside. | I’m interested in a large capacity, but I also want to take the stated energy consumption and freezer maintenance into account. |
| Delivery and installation | Measure the appliance, its intended position and the clearances it needs. Check the package dimensions, and measure doors, hallways and the lift along the delivery route. | I need to be able to get the fridge into my kitchen and use it without obstructing the walkway or stopping doors from opening. |
What pitfalls should you avoid?
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Choosing based on total capacity alone
Two appliances can divide their capacity between fridge and freezer very differently. For example, Bosch lists 400 L of fridge capacity and 108 L of freezer capacity for the KGN56XLEB, compared with 377 L and 126 L for the KGV58VLEAS.
Make a note of what you buy on a typical shop, then compare it with the separate capacities and drawers of each model.
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Measuring the kitchen but not the route to it
A large appliance might fit in its final position but not through a doorway or into a lift. Samsung specifically advises checking the route for its multi-door RF65DG9H0ESREF, which is listed as 912 mm wide.
Before ordering, check the dimensions of both the appliance and its packaging, as well as every access point on the delivery route.
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Assuming a storage feature guarantees food will keep well
A feature highlighted by a brand doesn’t, by itself, tell you whether the compartments will hold your shopping or whether their layout will suit you.
First, check the capacities, dimensions and layout of the exact model. Then check the terms of use for any features you’re interested in.
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Leaving it until delivery day to arrange collection of your old appliance
If your old fridge is still in the space intended for the new one, you’ll need to coordinate its collection with the new appliance’s arrival.
Ask the seller about their collection service and confirm the location and time slot before delivery.
Which brands and models should you consider?
These models illustrate different capacity splits and dimensions. The specifications listed apply to each individual model, not to the brand as a whole.
Bosch
Bosch’s freestanding fridge-freezer range lets you compare the space allocated to fresh and frozen food.
- According to Bosch Électroménager France, the KGN56XLEB offers 400 L of fridge capacity, 108 L of freezer capacity and No Frost technology.
- If you buy a lot of frozen food, check whether its 108 L freezer capacity and compartment layout will meet your needs.
Samsung
The multi-door RF65DG9H0ESREF is an example of a large-format model to consider if you have the space.
- Samsung France lists this model with a total capacity of 636 L.
- It’s listed as 912 mm wide. Measure the space and access points, then check the separate capacities before choosing it for frozen food.
Haier
The HCR3818DNMM is a freestanding four-door model that’s narrower than the Samsung model mentioned above.
- Haier France lists dimensions of 833 × 650 × 1815 mm and No Frost technology for this model.
- Check the usable capacity of each compartment before deciding whether this format suits your shopping habits.
Fridges available on Joybuy
This selection includes fridge-freezers and multi-door appliances for storing the family shop. For each one, compare the space for fresh and frozen food, then check its dimensions before choosing.
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Candy CFQQ5T817EPS, four-door, 467 L
To divide your shopping between fresh and frozen food, check the space available in each compartment of this four-door model. Its name indicates a total capacity of 467 L, Total No Frost and an E rating. Also measure the delivery route and the clearance needed for installation.
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Samsung RS80F64KEF side-by-side, 640 L
If you’re considering a large-format model for the family shop, check the capacity of each compartment rather than relying on the advertised total of 640 L. Check the access route and required clearances. If you want to use the water and ice dispenser, make sure it can be connected to the mains water supply too.
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Samsung RF50C530EB1, 495 L, E rating
If your shopping includes both fresh and frozen food, compare the separate capacities rather than looking only at the stated 495 L total. Check the RF50C530EB1’s door configuration before deciding whether its layout suits you, then check the package dimensions and required clearances.
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Haier HTW5618ENMG, three-door, 360 L
To store fresh and frozen food separately, check the capacity and accessibility of each compartment in this three-door model. Its name indicates a total capacity of 360 L, Total No Frost and an E rating. Check the package dimensions and the clearance needed for installation.
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Samsung RB34C704DB1, 344 L fridge-freezer
If a fridge-freezer suits your needs for several days’ worth of shopping, check that the split between fresh and frozen food matches what you buy. This model is listed with a total capacity of 344 L and a D rating. Also check the package dimensions and the clearance needed for installation.
Frequently asked questions
Should I choose the largest total capacity for the weekly shop?
No. Choose a model based on the space you need in each compartment. For example, Bosch Électroménager France lists 400 L of fridge capacity and 108 L of freezer capacity for the KGN56XLEB, compared with 377 L and 126 L for the KGV58VLEAS. The internal layout can also help you choose between two models.
How do I compare the energy consumption of two different-sized fridges?
Check the annual energy consumption in kWh/year and the capacity of each compartment for each model, rather than comparing only their energy rating or size. The European EPREL database displays this information for the appliances it covers. It lets you compare the declared figures, but can’t predict your exact energy consumption at home.
Should I measure the access points before ordering a multi-door fridge?
Yes. Measure the space, doors, hallways and any lift, then ask for the package dimensions. Samsung France recommends checking the route for its multi-door RF65DG9H0ESREF, which is listed as 912 mm wide.
When should I arrange for my old fridge to be collected?
Ask the seller about collection when you place your order, before booking delivery of the new appliance. Confirm the arrangements, location and collection time slot so your old fridge doesn’t get in the way of installation.