For large shops, consider a chest freezer if you have room for it and a way to find what you need. If you regularly use portioned meals, an upright freezer with drawers may be more practical. If space is tight, look at an under-counter model or the freezer compartment of a large fridge-freezer. In every case, check the usable capacity, installation requirements and stated storage time in the event of a power cut.
If you buy in bulk or freeze large containers, a chest freezer is worth considering, provided you have enough floor space and room to open it. UFC-Que Choisir describes this format as suitable for storing large quantities.
If you often need to find a particular container or portion, an upright freezer’s drawers make it easier to organise and access your food. Electrolux highlights this layout as an advantage of the upright format.
If you need to fit a freezer under a worktop or place it in an unheated room, your choice depends as much on its dimensions and installation requirements as on the ambient temperature. Beko notes that each appliance is designed to operate within a temperature range determined by its climate class.
Worth considering: for organising portioned meals and accessing them regularly using the drawers.
Bear in mind: the compartments may make it harder to store very large containers.
Worth considering: for large quantities or bulky containers, if you have enough floor space.
Bear in mind: smaller portions can be harder to find without baskets or another organisation system.
Worth considering: for extra storage when the appliance needs to fit under a worktop.
Bear in mind: its smaller capacity makes it less suitable for storing large quantities of shopping or meals.
Worth considering: if you also need to replace your fridge and want both functions in one appliance.
Bear in mind: the total capacity is not the same as the freezer space alone, so check the capacity of the relevant compartment. UFC-Que Choisir distinguishes between fridge-freezers and dedicated freezers for this reason.
| Criterion | What to check | Consumers concerned |
|---|---|---|
| Freezing capacity | Compare the net capacity in litres with the space you need for your shopping and large containers. For a fridge-freezer, check the capacity of the freezer compartment on its own. | When I bring home a large shop, I want to be able to put everything away without having to stack it all up. Around 29% of consumers rank this capacity as their top priority. |
| Meal organisation | Look at the layout of the drawers or baskets and check whether you can reach food stored at the back. | To find my prepared meals easily, I prefer a layout where every container is within reach; this is the top priority for around 29% of consumers. |
| Installation | Measure the space and the clearance needed to open the appliance, then check that the room’s temperatures fall within the range specified for the model. | In a compact kitchen or an unheated room, I first need an appliance I can install in the right conditions. For around 24% of consumers, this compatibility matters more than capacity. |
| Power cuts and everyday use | Check the stated storage time in hours and annual energy consumption in kWh. Check for alarms too, if these matter to you. | With a large stock of meals or shopping, I want to consider both possible power cuts and the appliance’s ongoing use. Around 18% of consumers prioritise these factors. |
A chest freezer can hold large quantities, but it takes up floor space and portions stored at the bottom may be difficult to find.
Measure the space and the clearance needed to open the lid, then plan to organise your food using baskets, boxes or labels.
According to Beko, a climate class defines the ambient temperature range an appliance is designed for. A room outside this range may affect how well it works.
Check the room’s minimum and maximum temperatures, then compare them with the range specified for the exact model.
The total capacity of a fridge-freezer includes the fridge section too, so it doesn’t tell you how much room there is for frozen food.
Compare the freezer compartment’s net capacity with your usual stock and the extra food you want to store.
The stated storage time is particularly important if the appliance holds a lot of food. It can’t be worked out from its capacity.
Check the model’s stated storage time in hours. If you want these features, also check whether it has an open-door or high-temperature alarm.
Beko offers upright, chest and under-counter freezers to suit different storage needs.
Electrolux offers upright, chest and compact formats, each with different storage options.
Bosch offers, among other options, freestanding upright freezers. Its GSN58AWEV specifications state a freezer capacity of 366 L.
Choose a model whose ambient temperature range covers the room’s minimum and maximum temperatures. Beko explains that the climate class indicates this range, and that Freezer Guard, designed for lower temperatures, is only available on certain models. Always check the specifications for the model you’re considering.
Compare the stated times in hours for models that meet your capacity and installation needs; don’t assume that a larger freezer will keep food frozen for longer. UFC-Que Choisir assesses this feature in a simulated power cut. As an example for a specific model, Bosch states 12 h for the GSN58AWEV.
No. On models with this feature, No Frost is designed to eliminate the need for manual defrosting, according to Electrolux. However, you still need to clean the appliance, check that the door closes properly and follow the instructions. Check that the feature is listed in the specifications for your chosen model.
Check the energy class, annual consumption in kWh and net freezer capacity to compare appliances that can hold the amount of food you need to store. Also check the noise level if the appliance will be installed near a living area. Energy class or consumption on its own won’t determine which format or capacity is right for you.
Arrange for it to be taken to an appropriate collection or recycling facility rather than putting it out with household rubbish. In France, ADEME notes that the retailer or delivery driver can take it away when you replace it, or you can take it to a recycling centre. Check the practical arrangements with the retailer before delivery.