Start by measuring the entire space, including door clearance and ventilation, then choose the balance between fridge and freezer capacity based on your usual shopping habits. According to Que Choisir, a table-top model can suit a studio flat, while a fridge freezer is better for storing fresh and frozen food at the same time; an integrated model also requires a compatible housing unit, fixing system and ventilation for the specific model.
A table-top model may be worth considering when saving space is the priority, as Que Choisir points out for studio flats. However, check the usable capacity and whether it has a freezer compartment, depending on your eating habits.
A fridge freezer lets you divide storage between fresh and frozen food in one appliance. Compare the net capacities of the two compartments separately rather than relying on the total capacity alone.
Before buying, check the stated noise level, dimensions, door opening and ventilation. For an integrated model, the housing unit dimensions and door-front fixing system are also crucial.
First measure your kitchen and the delivery route, then compare appliances of the same format based on their usable capacity, stated noise level and installation requirements.
| Priority | What to check | Your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Usable capacity | Compare the fridge and freezer capacities in litres separately. Also look at the drawers, shelves and door storage of the exact model. | I want to store my usual shopping without discovering that the compartment I use most is too small. |
| Installation and doors | Measure the width, height and depth. For an integrated model, check the housing unit, hinges or fixings, ventilation and door clearance. | My kitchen must remain practical once the appliance is installed, including when the doors are open. |
| Noise and energy | Compare the stated noise level in dB and the energy-label information between appliances with similar capacities and functions. Check the label’s QR code when available. | In an open-plan kitchen, I prefer to know the stated noise level and energy consumption before choosing. |
| Frost management | Check the cooling type for each compartment and whether it is described as No Frost or Total No Frost. Consult the manual for defrosting instructions. | I want to know whether maintaining the freezer matches the amount of time I am prepared to spend on it. |
An integrated model must match the housing unit dimensions, door-front fixing system and installation requirements. For example, Electrolux states that its ENV9GB18S requires a 1780 × 560 × 550 mm housing unit: this measurement does not automatically apply to other models.
Measure the housing unit and compare it with the installation diagram for the exact model before ordering.
A fridge freezer divides its capacity between the fridge and freezer. Two appliances with a similar total capacity may therefore be very different if your shopping mainly consists of fresh or frozen food.
Make a list of the food you store each week and compare the net capacities of the fridge and freezer separately.
Air circulation around the appliance and keeping it away from heat sources are part of the installation requirements. The required clearances vary according to the installation type and model.
Follow the instructions for your chosen model and do not apply the clearances intended for an integrated model to a freestanding one, or vice versa.
No Frost, reversible doors, noise levels and hinge types can vary from one reference to another within the same range.
On the exact model’s product page, check the cooling type, stated noise level, net capacities, dimensions, door fixing and installation instructions.
Worth comparing if you are looking for an integrated fridge, particularly an under-counter or single-door model, with detailed information on dimensions, usable capacity, noise and hinges.
A brand worth comparing for tall integrated fridge freezers, with French-market data on housing unit dimensions, net capacities and installation documents.
Worth considering when comparing integrated and freestanding fridge freezers, including models advertised with No Frost features.
These Joybuy options are freestanding fridge freezers designed to store fresh and frozen food in the same appliance.
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For shops containing both fresh and frozen food, the stated capacities of 276 L and 114 L make it easier to assess the available split.
The product page states 35 dB, reversible doors and dimensions of 59.5 × 203 × 65.8 cm.
Check the manual for ventilation clearances, door clearance and defrosting instructions.
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This fridge freezer provides 183 L of fridge space, a 37 L fresh-food compartment and 113 L of freezer space for flexible storage.
The product page states Total No Frost, 34 dB and a 110° door opening that provides access to the drawers when the appliance is near a wall.
A reversible door is not specified; allow for the clearances required in the model’s instructions.
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The stated capacities of 230 L and 114 L, together with three freezer drawers, help you compare the usable storage for weekly shops.
The product page states No Frost, a reversible door, a width of 59.5 cm and a height of 185.3 cm.
For an open-plan kitchen, check the stated noise level, depth, ventilation and door clearance before ordering.
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Measuring 50 × 55 × 150 cm, it combines 115 L of fridge capacity with 59 L of freezer capacity for a compact kitchen.
The product page states 39 dB, Low Frost, a 4-star freezer, a reversible door and adjustable feet.
Low Frost does not necessarily mean that defrosting is not required; consult the manual and ventilation instructions.
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With 153 L for fresh food and 74 L for frozen food, this model lets you compare capacities for mixed storage in a compact kitchen.
The product page states a width of 54 cm, a depth of 55 cm, 39 dB, Low Frost, a reversible door and adjustable feet.
Check the model documentation for the height, required clearances and defrosting procedure.
Measure the available width, height and depth, then check the delivery route and the space needed to open the doors. For an integrated model, pay particular attention to the housing unit, door fixing and model-specific requirements; for a freestanding model, check the ventilation clearances specified in its manual.
Whirlpool recommends 5 cm above and 10 cm behind its freestanding fridges to help heat escape. This recommendation applies to its appliances: always prioritise the clearances stated in the manual for the exact model.
At a minimum, compare the energy-efficiency class, energy consumption, capacity and noise emissions when these are shown on the label. European regulations require relevant refrigeration appliances to carry an energy label, and the QR code may provide access to additional information about the model.
In France, the Ministry for Ecological Transition states that the “one-for-one” take-back scheme applies when equipment of the same type is purchased. Confirm the practical collection or removal arrangements with the retailer before delivery.