When kitting out a new home, start by measuring the space and the delivery route, then choose the capacity you need for fresh and frozen food. A fridge freezer combines both if you regularly freeze food; a fridge or under-counter model may suit other space and storage requirements better. Then compare energy labels for appliances with similar sizes and capacities, rather than choosing on total capacity alone.
If your appliance needs to fit into an alcove, under a worktop or in a narrow kitchen, measure the route to its final position too, as well as the clearance needed to open the door. Bosch and Electrolux product pages show why the dimensions of each model matter more than its capacity alone.
Start with the food you usually keep chilled or frozen. Que Choisir’s capacity guidelines can give you a starting point, but your shopping and cooking habits will determine how much space you need in each compartment.
As ADEME points out, a fridge runs continuously. When comparing models that meet the same storage needs, check their energy rating and stated annual energy consumption, but don’t assume this guarantees a particular saving.
Consider this if: you freeze little food or already have a separate freezer, so you can use most of the storage for fresh food.
Bear in mind: on its own, it won’t meet your needs if you regularly store frozen food.
Consider this if: you regularly use both compartments and want them in one appliance.
Bear in mind: a large total capacity doesn’t guarantee that the balance between fridge and freezer space will suit you.
Consider this if: you only have space for a low-level alcove and have modest storage needs.
Bear in mind: check the available capacity against your usual shopping, especially if you don’t have another appliance for extra storage.
Consider this if: you already have a fridge and regularly buy frozen food or batch-cook, creating an ongoing need for extra freezer space.
Bear in mind: you’ll need space for a second appliance, which will also run continuously.
| Consideration | What to check | What matters to shoppers |
|---|---|---|
| Space and access | Appliance dimensions and, if needed, alcove dimensions; the route to the kitchen and door clearance. | In a narrow kitchen, I need to be able to get the appliance in and open the door once it’s in place. Around 33% of shoppers prioritise this fit. |
| Everyday capacity | Usable capacity for fresh and frozen food separately; how often you shop. | If most of my shopping goes in the fridge, a large total capacity isn’t enough to guide my choice. Around 27% of shoppers prioritise a good balance of storage. |
| Energy use | Energy rating and stated annual energy consumption, comparing appliances of similar size and capacity. | I want to manage the energy use of an appliance that will stay plugged in all the time, without compromising on the capacity I need. Around 20% of shoppers share this priority. |
| Freezing and maintenance | Freezer capacity; whether No Frost or Low Frost is available, and which compartments it applies to. | If I regularly freeze meals or store frozen food, the available space and freezer maintenance will influence my choice. Around 20% of shoppers prioritise this. |
Extra litres may be poorly divided between the two compartments or take up unnecessary space in your kitchen. ADEME notes that the size of refrigeration appliances and having more capacity than you need can increase their energy use.
Work out separately how much space you need for fresh and frozen food, then check that the right appliance will fit in your kitchen.
The label helps you compare appliances, but an energy rating doesn’t tell you whether two models offer the same amount of storage.
Also compare the stated annual energy consumption and usable capacities of appliances of a similar size. Don’t treat the rating letter alone as a guarantee of savings.
An appliance that fits its intended space may still be difficult to manoeuvre through a doorway, hallway or lift. An integrated model also needs to fit its alcove.
Measure the whole route, the space where the appliance will go and the door clearance, then check the installation instructions for your chosen model.
No Frost and Low Frost refer to features you’ll need to check for on the model and in the relevant compartments. You should also confirm the arrangements for taking away an old appliance before delivery.
Check the product page and manual for maintenance guidance, then confirm the take-back and access arrangements with the retailer.
Bosch offers freestanding fridge freezers in a range of widths and capacities.
Samsung offers integrated fridge freezers, including the BRB30600EWW and BRB80F30ADS0 models.
Electrolux offers integrated and freestanding fridge freezers, with cooling features that vary by model.
Whirlpool offers integrated and freestanding fridge freezers, some of which are labelled No Frost or Total No Frost.
These fridge freezers combine refrigeration and freezing in one appliance. To choose between them, compare their format, stated capacities and dimensions with the space you have and your storage habits.
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Worth considering if you want fresh and frozen storage in one integrated appliance; check the alcove dimensions and installation instructions before ordering.
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Worth considering if you’re looking for a 344 L fridge freezer; check the space available for each compartment, the route into your kitchen and the door clearance.
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Worth considering if you need separate fridge and freezer compartments; also check the height, depth and clearances required for installation.
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Worth considering if the balance between fridge and freezer space suits your shopping habits; confirm the exact dimensions before deciding where to put it.
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Worth considering if you’re looking for a more compact fridge freezer; check that the balance of fridge and freezer space suits your shopping, and that you can get it through to your kitchen.
Compare the energy rating and stated annual energy consumption on the energy labels of the appliances you’re considering. To make the comparison useful, look at models of a suitable size and capacity for the same needs; ADEME recommends checking the energy label when buying household appliances.
In France, the ministries responsible for the ecological transition state that the ‘one-for-one’ take-back scheme applies when buying an appliance of the same type. Before ordering, ask the retailer how take-back is arranged, particularly if your old appliance needs to be collected from your home and prepared for removal.
Measure the appliance you’re considering, the space where it will go and the entire delivery route, then check the door clearance. For an integrated model, also compare the alcove dimensions and required clearances with the instructions for your chosen model.
In France, the seller is responsible for the legal guarantee of conformity, which can be claimed for up to two years on a new product, according to the DGCCRF. A commercial guarantee or extended warranty is separate: check what it covers and excludes, and don’t confuse it with this legal protection.
No. These terms can refer to different systems and compartments depending on the model. Check the product page and manual to see which feature is listed and what maintenance it involves, rather than assuming it applies to every appliance from a particular brand.