Which households are these options suited to?

Households with compact kitchens

If space is tight, measure it before comparing a table-top fridge, an under-counter model or a slimline fridge-freezer. The fridge capacity should also suit how often you shop.

Households that shop weekly for a mix of foods

If you store fresh and frozen food for several days, compare the usable capacity of each compartment separately. The total capacity doesn’t show you how the space is divided.

Households that buy in bulk

Large containers and big shops may call for more interior space, as long as the appliance can be brought in on delivery and fits in your kitchen.

Which criteria should you consider first?

Start by measuring the available space, then choose the balance of fridge and freezer capacity that suits your shopping habits. Next, compare appliances that meet both requirements.

Criteria What to check Who it’s for
Space and installation Measure the height, width and depth, and check the delivery route. Make sure the doors can open and follow the clearance requirements in the model’s manual. In a small kitchen, I need to be able to install the appliance without blocking a door or compromising ventilation; around 31% of consumers put these space requirements first.
Balance of fridge and freezer space Compare the usable litres of fridge and freezer space separately, as well as the type of freezer compartment. For weekly shops that include fresh and frozen food, I need space for both; around 38% of consumers prioritise this balance.
Big shops Check the usable capacity, compartment width and overall dimensions. Also compare the annual energy consumption shown on the label. When I bring home large dishes or lots of food in one go, having room to store them is crucial; around 23% of consumers prioritise this capacity.
More space for fresh food Check the fridge capacity and the type of ice box or freezer compartment, especially if you want to freeze fresh food. If I don’t use much frozen food, I’d rather have more room for fresh food; around 8% of consumers put this need first.

Which mistakes should you avoid?

  • Choosing based on total capacity alone

    Two appliances with the same total capacity can divide the space differently between fridge and freezer compartments. An ice box may not suit the same needs as a compartment designed for freezing fresh food.

    Compare the usable litres in each compartment with the amount of fresh and frozen food you usually buy.

  • Measuring the space, but not the whole installation

    An appliance may fit into its space without leaving enough room to open the doors or follow the ventilation instructions. You’ll also need to check that it can be brought through to the kitchen.

    Measure the appliance, the delivery route and the space needed to open the doors. Follow the clearances listed in the manual for the model you choose.

  • Choosing a multi-door fridge just for its convenience features

    A large appliance takes up a lot of space, even if your household doesn’t use all its capacity. Check the energy label for the specific model rather than judging its energy consumption by its size alone.

    Make sure your shopping habits really call for its compartments, and compare usable capacity, annual energy consumption, noise levels and dimensions.

  • Leaving your old appliance until delivery day

    Your old fridge will take up space while the new one is being installed.

    Before you order, ask the retailer how collection will be arranged and check that the delivery route allows both appliances to be moved.

Brands to compare

Bosch

A brand worth considering when comparing single-door, fridge-freezer and multi-door models by their dimensions and capacities.

  • Bosch’s product information for the KFN96VPEA multi-door model lists 405 L of fridge capacity and 200 L of freezer capacity.
  • This model measures 1,830 × 905 × 731 mm. Check the delivery route, door clearance and installation requirements before choosing an appliance of this size.

Liebherr

A brand to compare if you’re looking for a particularly wide fridge-freezer.

  • Liebherr lists a total capacity of 522 L and a noise level of 42 dB for the CBNste 8872.
  • Its listed dimensions of 202.7 × 91 × 62.5 cm mean you’ll need to check the available space. The specifications for this model don’t necessarily apply to other models.

Samsung

A brand to consider for multi-door models if you need to store large containers.

  • Samsung offers multi-door models that are 90 cm wide, with space for wide dishes.
  • Check the dimensions of the model you choose, the delivery route and the capacity listed for each compartment.

Beko

A brand to compare for both compact under-counter models and fridge-freezers.

  • Beko offers under-counter models that are 54 cm wide, which may be worth considering when space is limited.
  • Check the door-opening direction, usable capacities and freezer compartment layout for the model you choose.

Joybuy products related to this topic

Related products coming soon.

Frequently asked questions

What fridge capacity should I allow for my household?

Use Que Choisir’s recommendation as a starting point: 100 to 150 L of usable capacity for one person, then 50 L for each additional person. Adjust this to how often you shop and how much frozen food you store, comparing the capacity of each compartment separately.

Is a space around 90 cm wide enough for a multi-door fridge?

Width alone isn’t enough to confirm that a multi-door fridge will fit. Some models are close to 90 cm wide, but you’ll also need to check their depth and height, the delivery route, whether the doors can open and the clearances specified in the manual.

What should I compare on the energy label?

Compare the stated annual energy consumption, usable capacities and noise levels of fridges suited to similar needs. ADEME describes the energy label as a comparison tool; the energy rating alone doesn’t replace checking that the appliance has the capacity you need.

How can I arrange for my old fridge to be taken away?

Ask the retailer about collection arrangements before ordering your new appliance. Explain any access restrictions at your home and coordinate the removal of the old fridge with delivery of the new one.