For one person, Que Choisir Ensemble suggests 100–150 L of usable capacity as a guide, which you can adjust to suit your shopping habits and available space. Measure the space before choosing, then compare the fresh-food capacity, freezer compartment and stated noise level separately. A table-top fridge can also have a freezer, so be sure to check the exact dimensions.
You want an appliance that fits the space available without paying for capacity you won't use. The dimensions published by Darty for the Beko TSE1285NG and by Liebherr France for the Rdi 1620 show that shorter appliances can come in different widths. Check every measurement for the model you choose.
You want to store a few frozen items or freeze portions without sacrificing too much room for fresh food. Check the compartment's capacity and stated specifications rather than relying on the format name alone.
Your fridge will share a room where you relax or work, so noise levels matter. Compare the stated figures for the specific models you're considering, but don't assume that a single number will predict how noisy an appliance will seem in your home.
Start by measuring the space and checking how far the door needs to open. Then choose the balance of fresh and frozen storage to suit your shopping habits. “Table top” describes the format, but it doesn't necessarily mean the appliance has no freezer.
| Priority | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Space and door opening | Measure the width, depth and height, then check the door clearance and installation instructions for the exact model. | In a small kitchen, I want to be able to install and open the appliance without blocking the way; around 25% of consumers prioritise fit. |
| Fresh-food capacity | Compare the fridge capacity with the total capacity. Que Choisir Ensemble suggests 100–150 L of usable capacity for one person: a guide to adjust to your habits, not a mandatory minimum. | If I mostly buy small amounts of fresh food, I want to avoid a large total capacity masking a small fridge compartment; around 20% of consumers prioritise fresh-food storage. |
| Freezing | Check the compartment capacity, its rating and the manufacturer's stated freezing capacity separately. For example, Beko France lists fresh and frozen capacities separately on its model specification sheets. | When I store frozen food or freeze portions, I want to know what the compartment can really do; around 20% of consumers put freezing capacity first. |
| Noise in your living space | Check the stated noise level and, where available, the noise class for the exact model. This information can't replace an assessment in your own home. | If the fridge is near where I relax or work, I want to take its stated noise level into account; around 20% of consumers make this their priority. |
| Running costs and maintenance | Check the annual energy consumption in kWh, the defrosting method and the warranty terms that apply to your purchase. | I want to plan for energy use and the time needed for maintenance, as well as the initial purchase; around 15% of consumers prioritise these practical considerations. |
The stated capacity may include a freezer compartment. For the Beko TSE1285NG, Beko France lists 101 L for the fridge and 13 L for the freezer, giving a total of 114 L.
Compare the capacities separately and check that your usual containers will fit in the fridge section.
Storage capacity, compartment rating and freezing capacity answer different questions. Check the manufacturer's specifications for the exact model and the way you plan to use it.
A compartment that doesn't suit your needs could mean changing what you buy or finding a different way to store your food.
For the CHCS 514EX, Candy France states that the freezer must be defrosted manually, while the fridge defrosts automatically. A technology's marketing name alone doesn't tell you what maintenance it needs.
Check the defrosting method listed for the exact model before choosing.
Manual defrosting takes time and means temporarily rearranging your frozen food storage.
The French models mentioned include a table-top appliance with a small freezer compartment and a narrower two-door model.
The Rdi 1620 is an example of a table-top fridge whose external dimensions need to be checked against the space available.
The CHCS 514EX is an example of a fridge freezer with the freezer at the bottom.
This selection includes table-top fridges, compact one-door and fridge-freezer models, as well as a built-in model. Compare their layout and specifications with your kitchen dimensions and freezer requirements.
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Worth considering if you're looking for a table-top fridge for a compact kitchen.
The product name lists a light, removable shelves, an adjustable thermostat, a reversible door and an E energy rating.
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Consider this if you want separate compartments for fresh and frozen food in a compact appliance.
The product name lists 115 L for the fridge, 59 L for the freezer, a four-star freezer, Low Frost technology and a height of 150 cm.
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Worth considering if you need a separate freezer compartment and a model whose name indicates a compact width.
The product name lists 153 L for the fridge, 74 L for the freezer, a width of 54 cm, a four-star freezer, Low Frost technology and a reversible door.
Place it on a stable surface with adequate ventilation, and check the installation instructions for this model.
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Consider this only if your kitchen can accommodate a built-in appliance with sliding-door installation.
The product name lists a capacity of 249 L, TwinTech No Frost technology and an E energy rating. Check the cabinet dimensions and installation requirements for this model.
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Consider this if you're looking for a one-door format with an integrated freezer compartment.
The product name lists a total capacity of 179 L. Information for this model states that the freezer needs manual defrosting, so factor in this maintenance when making your choice.
Anses advises setting your fridge below 4 °C. The average temperature recorded in its European study is not a recommended temperature.
Check the defrosting method listed for the model you're considering. For the Candy CHCS 514EX, Candy France states that the freezer needs manual defrosting, while the fridge defrosts automatically.
Yes. The household refrigeration appliances covered by the rules must carry an energy label both in shops and online. The DGCCRF identifies Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/2016 as applying to these appliances. Compare models using the relevant scale rather than the old A+ or A+++ ratings.
When a consumer buys from a professional seller, the statutory guarantee of conformity covers defects that appear within two years of delivery, subject to the conditions that apply to the goods. Service Public explains that the same rules do not apply in the same way to a private sale.
The free “one-for-one” take-back scheme covers a used appliance of the same type and quantity as the product sold or replaced. Service Public Entreprendre explains that this can also apply at delivery. If you're furnishing your first home and don't have an old appliance, this service won't apply to you.