First, choose a size that fits the space you actually have, taking account of the open door, ventilation and delivery route. Then compare the fridge and freezer capacities separately against your shopping habits. A tabletop fridge may suit you if you only need modest storage; a fridge-freezer gives you separate fresh and frozen food sections, while a built-in model depends on the dimensions of the housing unit. For a refurbished appliance, check its condition and what services are included.
Check the appliance dimensions, door swing, access to storage and ventilation. Beko France and Bosch Electroménager France provide details about the opening or installation requirements of specific models. The stated width alone isn’t enough to confirm that an appliance will fit every kitchen.
Compare the capacities for fresh and frozen food separately, rather than relying on the total capacity or height. The product details from Bosch Electroménager France and the EU energy label provide useful information about the compartments on the models concerned.
Weigh up the space required, noise and electricity consumption. For a refurbished appliance, also check the condition of the specific item, the warranty and the delivery service. ADEME points out that fridges run continuously; the DGCCRF also explains what to check when buying a refurbished product.
Consider this if: you have limited height available and the model’s fridge and freezer capacities meet your needs.
Check: an integrated freezer compartment may not offer the same capacity as a fridge-freezer.
Consider this if: you want separate sections for fresh and frozen food and have enough height for this format.
Check: the width alone won’t confirm that the door can open or that the depth will suit your kitchen.
Consider this if: you already have a housing unit whose dimensions and fittings match the model’s instructions.
Check: ventilation, mounting and your freezer requirements, as these vary between appliances.
Consider this if: the specific appliance meets your size and storage needs and its condition is clearly described.
Check: the delivery terms and any commercial warranty, which is separate from the statutory warranty.
The percentages below show the main priority for consumers choosing a fridge for a small kitchen after moving in; each row represents a different purchasing need.
| Concern | What to check | Who is it most relevant to? |
|---|---|---|
| Size and door opening | Measure the width, depth and height, as well as the delivery route. Check the manual for the door swing and ventilation clearances. | If space is tight, I want to be able to install the appliance and open its door without blocking the way. Around 31 % of consumers prioritise the space it takes up. |
| Fridge capacity and freezing | Compare the capacity in litres of each compartment and the capacities listed for the model, based on your shopping and freezing habits. | When I cook or keep frozen food, I want to know how much space is actually available for each use. Around 25 % of consumers prioritise storage for groceries and frozen food. |
| Noise | For the appliances you’re considering, compare the noise level in dB(A) and the acoustic class shown on the EU label. | In a studio flat or open-plan kitchen, I want to keep noise down near my living or sleeping area. Around 19 % of consumers prioritise quiet operation. |
| Electricity consumption | Compare the kWh/year shown on the energy label, taking into account the capacity and features you actually need. | If I’m comparing models that suit my space and storage needs, I also want to check their stated annual consumption. Around 13 % of consumers put this criterion first. |
| Refurbished appliances and delivery | Check the description of the specific appliance, the seller, where it will be delivered, whether installation is included and the written warranty terms. | When buying a refurbished appliance, I want to know which one will be delivered and how far the delivery service will take it. Around 12 % of consumers prioritise condition and related services. |
The depth, door opening or ventilation clearances could prevent installation, even if the width seems suitable.
Compare the measurements of the space and delivery route with the exact model’s manual, allowing for the door when it’s open.
A tabletop fridge with an integrated compartment and a fridge-freezer may not suit the same freezing habits.
Compare the capacity and features of each compartment for the model you’re considering, rather than choosing based only on the presence of a freezer.
Delivery to the entrance of a block of flats doesn’t necessarily include taking the appliance into your kitchen.
Check which service you’ve selected and ask for a description of the condition of the specific appliance that will be delivered.
The EU label also shows annual consumption, capacity and noise. The rating alone doesn’t tell you whether the appliance will suit your space and needs.
First rule out models that aren’t suitable for your installation or storage needs, then compare their stated annual consumption.
The KTL15NWEB and KUR21VFE0 illustrate two different configurations: a freestanding tabletop fridge with a freezer compartment, and an under-counter integrated fridge without a freezer.
The RCSA300K40WN is an example of a narrow fridge-freezer, if you have enough height for this format.
The KTe551 and KTe550 are examples of tabletop fridges with different freezer compartment configurations.
The HBW5519E is an example of a built-in fridge-freezer for a compatible housing unit, rather than a tabletop fridge.
This selection includes countertop fridges and built-in models for small kitchens, with a range of storage configurations.
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Worth considering if you have a suitable housing unit and want a built-in appliance with both fridge and freezer functions.
Stated capacity: 252 L. No Frost, energy class C and an Inverter compressor are listed in the product name.
A suitable housing unit and installation are required.
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Worth considering if you’re looking for a countertop fridge and its features suit your planned layout.
The product name lists interior lighting, removable shelves, an adjustable thermostat, a reversible door, a white finish and energy class E.
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Worth considering if your housing unit is suitable for a built-in model designed to store fresh food.
Stated capacity: 188 L. Energy class E is listed in the product name.
The product details describe it as being for fresh food storage; don’t choose it if you need an integrated freezer compartment.
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Worth considering if you have a compatible housing unit and want a built-in model with fridge and freezer functions.
The product name describes a built-in appliance with a top freezer and a total capacity of 188 L.
The freezer compartment is listed as 14 L and requires manual defrosting. The furniture door is not included.
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Worth considering if you’re looking for a compact single-door fridge with a freezer compartment listed in the product name.
The product name lists a capacity of 92 L and energy class E.
Measure the space in width, depth and height, as well as the delivery route. Check the model’s manual for ventilation, door opening and access to storage: the requirements for a built-in model can’t be inferred from those of a freestanding appliance.
Not necessarily: the presence of a compartment alone doesn’t tell you how much it can freeze. Compare its capacity and the specifications given for the exact model. Liebherr France describes the KTe551’s 4-star compartment as suitable for freezing fresh food.
When you buy from a professional seller, the statutory guarantee of conformity also applies to refurbished goods for two years from delivery. The French Ministry of the Economy and Finance states that, for second-hand goods, the presumption that a fault existed at the time of delivery lasts for one year. Any commercial warranty is separate.
No, these services depend on the offer you choose. Before buying, check where the appliance will be delivered and whether taking it into the room or installing it is included. The French Ministry of the Economy and Finance states that the delivery price must be provided in writing before purchase.
In principle, consumers have at least 14 days to exercise their right to withdraw from a distance purchase made from a professional seller. The French Ministry of the Economy and Finance states that this right may also apply to second-hand goods. Check which exceptions apply and the terms provided before placing your order.