If your kitchen only has room for a low appliance and you shop frequently, compare under-counter fridges by their fresh-food capacity and whether they have a freezer compartment. If you regularly store more frozen food, a fridge freezer may be a better fit, provided its height and installation requirements work for your space. Before choosing, measure the delivery route, check how the door opens and allow for the clearances specified in the model’s instructions.
If you only have space for a low appliance, compare under-counter models with and without a freezer compartment. Consider the delivery route, how the door opens and the clearances specified in the instructions. Que Choisir recommends taking the layout and size of your kitchen into account.
Compare the usable capacity of the freezer compartment with that of a separate freezer. A small compartment may not be large enough for all your supplies. Que Choisir highlights the importance of considering your freezing needs.
Assess the usable capacity for fresh and frozen food based on how much you bring home each time you shop. The appliance’s external size alone won’t tell you the capacity of each compartment.
First, check that the appliance can be delivered and installed in your kitchen. Then compare the fresh and frozen food capacities, followed by features that affect everyday use.
| What matters | What to check | Consumers concerned |
|---|---|---|
| Size and delivery | Measure the appliance and its packaging along the access route; check the door clearance and the spaces required in the instructions. | If your priority is making sure the appliance fits through and works in its intended position, you’re among the consumers concerned with installation — around 36%. |
| Space for frozen food | Compare the freezer’s usable capacity, its star rating and how much you usually store. | If you regularly keep frozen food, the compartment’s capacity matters more than simply having one; around 29% of consumers prioritise frozen storage. |
| Room for your shopping | Check the usable capacity in litres for the fridge and freezer separately, as well as the shelf layout. | If you shop less often or bring home lots of fresh food, fridge capacity is key; around 21% of consumers prioritise space for their shopping. |
| Energy use and noise | For each model, check the stated kWh/year, energy rating, capacities and noise level in decibels. | In a small home, you may want to keep an eye on energy use or minimise noise near your living area; around 14% of consumers prioritise these everyday-use factors. |
A fridge may appear to fit between two cupboards, but the door might not open properly or the installation clearances may not be met. Ventilation requirements vary by model.
Measure the space and the route to your kitchen, then check the instructions for the exact model. Also check the delivery arrangements, including whether delivery upstairs is included.
If the appliance won’t fit through or the space needs rearranging, you may need to make new delivery or installation arrangements.
The Bosch KTR15NWEB is listed without a freezer compartment, while the Beko TSE1284N has a 13 L four-star compartment. These models show how configurations can differ.
Check the frozen-food capacity, star rating and freezing capacity listed for the model you’re considering.
Fridge and freezer capacity meet different needs. An energy rating doesn’t replace checking the kWh/year, the capacity of each compartment and the stated noise level for each model.
Compare these features across models with capacities and functions that suit your needs, using the product information for the specific models. ADEME notes that the energy label provides information about appliances’ energy efficiency, among other things.
The models mentioned show a choice between an under-counter fridge with a freezer compartment and a taller, two-door appliance.
The KTR15NWEB and KTL15NWEB show two under-counter options: one without a freezer compartment and one with an integrated compartment.
The KTe551 is an example of an under-counter fridge with a freezer compartment.
The FCN255WDE is an example of a slim, tall freestanding fridge freezer with a separate freezer compartment.
This selection includes under-counter fridges, single-door models and fridge freezers, so you can compare your needs for space, fresh-food storage and freezing.
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Its compact size and two compartments could suit you if you want to store fresh food and a small amount of frozen food.
64 L for fresh food and 28 L for the freezer; four-star freezer compartment; stated noise level of 45 dB.
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Worth considering if you need separate capacities for fresh and frozen food and your kitchen can accommodate a freestanding fridge freezer.
238 L for the fridge and 98 L for the freezer; No Frost; stated noise level of 35 dB; energy rating B.
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This model could suit you if you prioritise fresh food and don’t need a freezer compartment.
82 L usable fridge capacity; no freezer; energy rating E.
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Compare this model if you want separate compartments for fresh and frozen food and have enough room for the appliance.
252 L for the fridge and 103 L for the freezer; stated width of 60 cm; reversible doors; energy rating E.
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Its compact size could appeal if you’re looking for a small appliance with an integrated freezer compartment.
42 L for refrigeration and 3 L for the freezer; energy rating E.
Follow the clearances specified in the model’s instructions, as ventilation requirements vary by appliance. Electrolux support recommends allowing the stated distances and not placing the appliance directly against walls. Check the door opening too before deciding it will fit in an alcove.
No, not on its own. The Beko TSE1284N product information lists a reversible door, but you also need to check the clearance needed to open it, access to the drawers and the ventilation clearances for the model you choose.
Ask whether delivery upstairs and positioning the appliance are included, then measure the route to its intended location. The DGCCRF states that the seller must provide a delivery date or timeframe. Also check the delivery arrangements and any stated charges before paying.
Keep chilled food out of the fridge for as little time as possible and put it away promptly, following the storage temperature on the packaging. The DGCCRF recommends using an insulated bag during transport. Also follow the fridge instructions for installation and first use.
In France, claims under the statutory guarantee of conformity must be brought within two years of the goods being delivered, subject to the conditions set out by the DGCCRF. A commercial guarantee is separate and optional. When you buy a new appliance, free take-back of an equivalent used appliance on a “one-for-one” basis is required: ask the seller how this is arranged.