First, choose a fridge that fits in your kitchen while allowing for the clearances specified in its manual. Then check that its capacity suits your household’s shopping habits. A table-top fridge is worth considering when space is very limited; a fridge freezer keeps fresh and frozen food separate; and a multi-door model could suit you if you need plenty of space, provided your kitchen and delivery route can accommodate it. Finally, compare the annual energy consumption and noise levels of the models that meet your needs.
The size of your household helps you work out how much capacity you need, but the space available may rule out a style before you even compare capacities.
A table-top fridge is worth considering if space is tight. Que Choisir recommends this style for studio flats, while the CAF advises measuring the space and checking the connections before you buy. Also check that the door can open fully and that you can leave the clearances specified in the manual.
A fridge freezer gives you two separate compartments in one appliance. Compare the fridge and freezer capacities separately, taking into account how often you shop and how much space you need for frozen food, rather than focusing on the total capacity alone.
A multi-door model could suit you if you need plenty of storage and separate compartments. Que Choisir recommends large American-style models for kitchens with enough space. For any model you’re considering, also check the delivery route, how far the doors open and the annual energy consumption.
If space is very limited, consider a table-top fridge. If you prioritise fresh food and don’t need a large freezer compartment, look at single-door models. A fridge freezer is a good option if you need space for both fresh and frozen food, while a multi-door model calls for careful checks on the space available and how much capacity your household will actually use.
| Criteria | What to check | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Space and installation | Measure the height, width and depth, then check the door swing and the clearances specified in the manual. | In a small kitchen, I need to be able to install the appliance without blocking a walkway or stopping the doors from opening. Around 29% of consumers would put compatibility with the available space at the top of their list. |
| Fridge and freezer capacity | Compare the usable capacity of each compartment and check that the freezer space suits your shopping habits. | If I regularly store fresh and frozen food, how the capacity is divided matters more to me than the total capacity alone. Everyday storage would be the main priority for around 29% of consumers. |
| Noise | Compare the noise levels shown in dB(A) and consider how close the appliance will be to a living area. | If my kitchen opens onto the living room or is in a studio flat, I want to take the appliance’s noise level into account. Around 18% of consumers would put quietness ahead of other criteria. |
| Energy consumption and aftercare | Compare the kWh/year for models with similar capacities, as well as delivery and warranty terms and the availability of spare parts. | If I’m replacing an appliance that runs all the time, I want to compare its energy consumption without overlooking delivery and maintenance terms. Around 24% of consumers would prioritise this combination of practical considerations. |
An appliance may fit in its space without leaving enough room to open the doors or meet the clearances specified by the manufacturer. The CAF also advises checking the connections, while Electrolux reminds customers that air needs to circulate around the appliance.
Measure the space, the route into your kitchen and the room needed in front of the appliance. Then check the model’s manual for installation and ventilation requirements.
A delivery route that’s too narrow or a door that can’t open far enough could prevent delivery or make the storage compartments difficult to use.
A large capacity doesn’t tell you how much space the appliance takes up in your kitchen or how its capacity is divided between fresh and frozen food. Que Choisir highlights the width requirements of large American-style models.
Work out how much space you need in each compartment, then compare the multi-door model’s dimensions, kWh/year and noise level with those of a fridge freezer that could also suit you.
The energy rating isn’t enough to compare appliances with different capacities. The European Commission uses an A to G scale for household fridges; you should also consider annual energy consumption alongside the capacity that suits your needs.
Compare the kWh/year of models with similar styles and capacities, then check the usable capacity and noise level separately.
Manufacturer ranges can help you find the style you’re looking for, but dimensions and installation requirements vary from model to model.
Worth considering if you’re looking for a compact model, a single-door fridge or an appliance to fit a specific space.
Worth considering if you’re looking for a freestanding fridge freezer and want to compare different capacities and noise levels.
Worth considering if you’re looking for a multi-door fridge, while still comparing it with other styles in the range.
These Joybuy models include fridge freezers for storing fresh and frozen food in one appliance, as well as multi-door models for households looking for more capacity. Before choosing, check that each model’s dimensions and installation requirements are suitable for your kitchen.
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This fridge freezer is designed for households that want to store fresh and frozen food in one appliance. Check the manual for the depth needed with the door open and the installation clearances, then measure the delivery route.
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This four-door model offers separate storage for fresh and frozen food. Its size means you’ll need to measure the delivery route and the space where it will go; check the ventilation clearances in the manual too.
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This multi-door model suits households looking for plenty of capacity and with enough space to install it. Check the delivery route and, if you plan to use the dispenser, the water supply requirements before buying.
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This fridge freezer is a good option if you want fridge and freezer storage in one upright appliance. If your kitchen is close to a living area, check its noise level on the label. Also check the depth with the door open before deciding where to put it.
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This 54 cm-wide fridge freezer is worth considering if width is limited. It offers 153 L of fridge space and 74 L of freezer space. Before making your choice, also check its height and depth, ventilation clearances and kWh/year.
Compare the usable capacity of the fridge and freezer compartments separately, based on what you buy. If you often buy frozen food, a large total capacity isn’t enough on its own: check how much space is actually available for storing it.
Yes, follow the clearances specified in the manual for your chosen model. Electrolux says to allow air to circulate around the appliance; Bosch’s guidance for its own installations shouldn’t be treated as a rule for all fridges.
Look at the annual energy consumption in kWh, compartment capacities and noise level, as well as the energy rating. The European Commission uses an A to G scale for household fridges; comparing appliances with similar capacities and styles makes this information more useful when choosing.
The French Ministry of Agriculture recommends +4 °C for the fridge and −18 °C for the freezer. You should also follow the food storage instructions on product packaging.
Use an appropriate route for electrical and electronic equipment rather than putting it with ordinary household waste. When replacing your appliance, find out about collection, take-back, repair or reuse options. The ministry responsible for the Ecological Transition describes a dedicated scheme for this type of equipment in France.