First, measure the space, allow for the doors to open and check the clearances specified in the instructions. Then compare the fridge and freezer capacities separately. A table-top fridge suits a very tight space, a single-door fridge prioritises fresh food storage, a fridge-freezer combines both functions, while a multi-door model needs more room to accommodate a larger capacity.
In a studio flat, a table-top fridge can be a good solution when space is limited, as UFC-Que Choisir points out. Make sure to check its dimensions, door clearance, ventilation and the space actually available for your food.
A fridge-freezer combines refrigeration and freezing in one appliance. If you regularly use both compartments, compare their individual capacities rather than looking only at the total capacity.
A multi-door fridge may suit you if you need plenty of storage and your kitchen, delivery route and door clearance allow for it. Also check any requirements specific to the features you want, particularly if the model has a water dispenser.
Start by choosing a format that fits your kitchen and the way you store food. Then narrow down your options by comparing the features of each model.
Consider it: for a studio flat, when the space available determines your choice of format.
Bear in mind: check the capacity carefully, especially if you buy frozen food.
Consider it: if fresh food storage is your priority or you already have a separate freezer.
Bear in mind: the presence and capacity of a freezer compartment vary by model.
Consider it: if you need space for both fresh and frozen food in the same appliance.
Bear in mind: the capacity split between the two compartments may not suit your habits.
Consider it: for a large household’s storage needs, if your space and delivery access allow for it.
Bear in mind: it takes up more space and, depending on the features, may need a water connection.
| Priority | What to check | Consumers concerned |
|---|---|---|
| Available space | Appliance dimensions and any recess dimensions; door clearance and the gaps specified in the instructions. | In a narrow kitchen, I want to be able to install the appliance and open its door without obstruction. This would be a priority for around 31% of consumers. |
| Balance between fresh and frozen food | Usable capacity of each compartment and whether there is a proper freezer compartment. | If I buy as much fresh food as frozen food, I need room for both without compromising either. Around 25% of consumers would put this balance first. |
| Frozen food storage | Usable capacity and the layout of the freezer drawers. | If I shop less often or freeze portions, I need enough room to see me through until my next shop. Around 25% of consumers would put this need first. |
| Large household storage | Capacity of each compartment and the space needed for installation; any water connection required for a dispenser. | In a large household, I want to store a big shop without finding out too late that the appliance won’t fit or its doors won’t open properly. Around 19% of consumers would prioritise this larger capacity. |
A fridge may fit in the space you have set aside but still lack enough room for its depth, open doors or air circulation. It also needs to fit along the delivery route.
Measure the height, width and depth, then check the door-opening diagram and clearances in the instructions for your chosen model. The 5 cm clearance Bosch specifies in its installation guide for a built-in American-style fridge is not a rule for every appliance.
The total capacity doesn’t tell you how much room is available for fresh food or how much is left for frozen food.
Compare the capacity of both compartments with a typical week’s shopping in mind. For example, for the WHK22372X5EA1, Whirlpool lists 252 L of fridge capacity and 118 L of freezer capacity, giving a total of 370 L.
Depending on the model, a water or ice dispenser may need a water supply; a model with a water tank has different connection requirements.
Check the instructions for your chosen model to find out what type of water supply it needs and whether it’s compatible with your intended location.
An appliance that needs a water supply may require installation work before it can be used.
The models below illustrate different configurations; their features don’t apply to every model in each brand’s range.
Worth considering if you prioritise generous fridge capacity without an integrated freezer.
A brand to explore for fridge-freezers with separate capacities listed for fresh and frozen food.
A brand to consider if you’re looking for a large-capacity multi-door fridge.
Worth considering when comparing a built-in fridge with the dimensions of a kitchen recess.
This selection includes four fridge-freezers for storing fresh and frozen food, plus a single-door fridge to consider if fresh food storage is your priority. Compare their stated capacities with the space you have and the freezer capacity you need.
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Worth considering if you want one appliance for both fresh and frozen food. The title lists a total capacity of 390 L and an energy rating of C; also compare the capacity of each compartment. Check the instructions for door clearance and the gaps needed in your chosen location.
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Worth considering if you’re looking for a high-capacity fridge-freezer for a family. The title lists a total capacity of 437 L and an energy rating of E; check how much space is allocated to each compartment. If you want to avoid manual defrosting, check how the freezer defrosts, as well as the delivery route and door clearance.
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Worth considering if you’re looking for a fridge-freezer that keeps fresh and frozen food separate. The title lists a total capacity of 333 L and an energy rating of C; check the capacity of each compartment before you decide. Also check door clearance and the delivery route.
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Worth considering if you’re looking for a fridge-freezer for fresh and frozen food. The title lists a total capacity of 344 L and an energy rating of D; then compare the capacity of each compartment. Before deciding whether it will fit in your kitchen, check its depth, door clearance and the gaps specified in the instructions.
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Worth considering if fresh food storage is your priority but you still want a freezer compartment. The title lists a total capacity of 179 L; check how much space is available for frozen food compared with your usual shopping. Also check the installation type and required dimensions in the instructions.
UFC-Que Choisir suggests starting with 100 to 150 L of usable capacity for one person, plus 50 L for each additional person. Adjust this guide to how often you shop, how much frozen food you buy and whether you have a separate freezer.
Measure the space and the delivery route, then check the appliance’s depth, door clearance and the gaps specified in the instructions for your chosen model. A suitable width isn’t enough if the door can’t open properly or the required ventilation isn’t available.
Compare the energy rating and annual consumption in kWh of specific models, taking their capacities and dimensions into account. ADEME describes the energy label as a tool to help you choose; the European Commission says the EPREL database also lets you check information about registered appliances, including the capacity of each compartment.
Follow the waiting time before switching on specified in the instructions for the appliance you’ve bought. In its installation advice, Electrolux recommends waiting at least 4 hours before plugging it in to allow the oil to flow back into the compressor. Check the instructions for your specific model.