Studio flat renter with limited space
Measure the height, depth and door opening before choosing a capacity. Que Choisir recommends a table-top fridge for studio flats; the clearance needed around the appliance will depend on its instruction manual.
Who these options suit
Anyone who sleeps or works in the same room
If your fridge shares your sleeping or working space, compare its stated noise level. Que Choisir considers appliances rated below 40 dBA to be among the quietest, although this figure alone can’t tell you how noisy the fridge will seem in your room.
Small household that regularly keeps frozen food
A small compartment may be enough for occasional use, but Que Choisir advises against relying on a basic freezer compartment if frozen food makes up a significant part of your shopping. Compare the capacity set aside for freezing and the features of the compartment you’re considering.
Key factors to weigh up
Table-top fridge without a freezer
Choose this if: you have limited height and mainly shop for fresh food.
Bear in mind: this format won’t let you store a supply of frozen food.
Single-door fridge with a freezer compartment
Choose this if: you keep a few frozen items but don’t want a taller appliance.
Bear in mind: the compartment takes up space that could be used for fresh food, so make sure its capacity suits your habits.
Compact fridge-freezer
Choose this if: you need a separate freezer compartment for regular shopping.
Bear in mind: check that its height and fresh-food capacity also suit your room and shopping habits.
Integrated fridge
Choose this if: your kitchenette already has a cabinet with a housing, fixing system and ventilation that are compatible with the model.
Bear in mind: an integrated appliance isn’t a direct replacement for a freestanding model.
Once you’ve chosen a format, match your main needs to the actual space and the exact appliance specifications.
| Factor | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Space and installation | Overall dimensions, door opening and clearances specified in the instruction manual; check the climate class if the room experiences significant temperature changes. | In a narrow kitchenette, I need to be able to open the door and let air circulate around the appliance. Around 29% of consumers put this compatibility first. |
| Fresh-food storage | Usable capacity in litres for the fridge section and the layout of the shelves, rather than just the total capacity. | If I shop less often or prepare meals in advance, I need room for fresh food and its containers; around 29% of consumers prioritise this. |
| Noise | Stated noise level in dB(A); Que Choisir considers models rated below 40 dBA to be among the quietest. | If I sleep or work near the fridge, its operating cycles matter when I’m choosing a model. For around 24% of consumers, quiet operation comes ahead of other factors. |
| Freezing | Type of compartment and capacity for frozen food; the model’s defrosting requirements. | If I keep frozen food every week, a small freezer compartment may limit what I can buy; around 18% of consumers make freezing their top priority. |
Mistakes to avoid
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Measuring only the available width
A fridge may fit between two cabinets but still leave too little room to open the door or allow air to circulate.
Measure the height, width and depth of the space, then check the model’s instruction manual for door clearance and ventilation requirements. For an integrated model, also check the housing and fixing system.
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Expecting a small freezer compartment to store all your frozen food
Que Choisir says that a basic freezer compartment won’t be enough if frozen food makes up a significant part of your diet.
Think about what you usually keep in the freezer, then compare the compartment and its capacity with those of a compact fridge-freezer.
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Confusing total capacity with fresh-food storage space
Total capacity includes any freezer compartment, so it isn’t the same as the space available for fresh food.
Compare the capacity of each section separately and check whether the shelves and storage compartments will fit the containers you usually use.
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Overlooking energy use and maintenance
When comparing two appliances, capacity and noise level shouldn’t take the place of checking their annual energy consumption. Placement and airflow also matter in everyday use.
Check the energy label for the exact model, follow the clearances in its instruction manual, and stick to its defrosting and maintenance guidance.
Brands to compare
Bosch
The range includes table-top and integrated fridges. For its KTL15NWEB, Bosch lists 106 l of fridge capacity, a freezer compartment and a noise level of 39 dB.
- The KTL15NWEB specification sheet also gives its dimensions: 85 × 56 × 58 cm, making it easy to check against a measured space.
- Check the climate class and installation guidance for the model you choose. Don’t assume the KTL15NWEB’s specifications apply to other appliances.
Beko
Beko describes the TSE1264FMGN as a 54 cm-wide freestanding table-top fridge with a 4-star freezer compartment.
- This model is worth comparing if you want to store frozen food in a table-top format.
- Width alone isn’t enough to determine whether it will fit: check the depth, clearances and other specifications for the exact model.
Liebherr
Liebherr lists the table-top KTe550 with a total capacity of 125 l and a noise level of 35 dB.
- Its stated dimensions of 85 × 55 × 60,7 cm make it easier to check exactly how much space you’ll need.
- Its depth of 60,7 cm needs particular attention if your walkway or worktop is narrow; these specifications apply to the KTe550.
Electrolux
Electrolux describes the KFF6DD18S4 as a single-door integrated fridge designed for a 1 780 × 560 × 550 mm housing.
- The published housing dimensions make it easier to check whether this model will fit an existing kitchenette.
- Check the fixing system and ventilation instructions too: the appliance dimensions alone don’t confirm whether it’s compatible with your cabinet.
Fridges to consider on Joybuy
These two models suit different needs: one is a fridge-freezer with a separate freezer section, while the other is a single-door fridge with a small freezer compartment. Compare their capacity with your shopping needs, then check the installation dimensions before choosing.
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CHiQ JR227LSE, 227 l silver fridge-freezer
Worth considering if you regularly store frozen food and have enough height for a fridge-freezer.
Stated capacity: 153 l for refrigeration and 74 l for freezing; 54 cm wide, with 4-star freezing, Low Frost technology and a reversible door.
Before buying, check the height, depth and clearances in the instruction manual against your available space. Also check the energy label and climate class for the exact model.
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CHiQ JR92DSE, 92 l single-door fridge
Worth considering if you shop frequently in small quantities and want a freezer compartment in a single-door format.
The stated 92 l is the total capacity; the model is listed with a freezer compartment and an E energy rating.
If you regularly store frozen food, check the compartment’s capacity and rating. Also compare the space for fresh food, noise level and installation dimensions with your needs.
Frequently asked questions
What capacity should one person allow for in a studio flat?
Que Choisir recommends allowing an average of 100 to 150 litres of usable capacity for one person. Focus on the fridge capacity if you cook or shop less often: the total capacity may also include a freezer compartment.
What noise level should I look for if I sleep in the same room?
Que Choisir considers fridges rated below 40 dBA to be among the quietest. Compare the stated noise levels of the models you’re considering and follow their installation guidance. The layout of your room will also affect how much noise you notice.
Can I put a fridge for a studio flat in an unheated room?
Only if the room’s temperature stays within the range specified for the model. Check its climate class and the ambient temperatures listed in its documentation before considering installing it in a garage, conservatory or poorly heated holiday home.
How much space should I leave around the fridge?
Always follow the clearances specified in the instruction manual for your chosen model, and don’t block its air vents. As a general guide, Que Choisir recommends leaving at least 10 cm above and behind the appliance. For an integrated installation, follow the instructions for the specific model and cabinet.