For a studio flat, first measure the space, required clearances and route to the kitchen, then choose fresh and frozen food capacity to suit your shopping habits. A table-top fridge works well when height is limited and you mainly need space for fresh food; a compact fridge-freezer may suit you if you regularly stock up on frozen food, provided its height and access route are suitable. If the appliance will be near where you sleep, also compare the stated noise levels and annual energy consumption of models that will genuinely fit in your space.
Before settling on a size, check that the fridge will fit, can be ventilated and has room for the door to open. UFC-Que Choisir and Bosch highlight the importance of clearances, which should be adjusted to the instructions for the model you choose.
Compare the net capacity of the fridge and freezer compartments separately to make sure each has enough room for the fresh and frozen food you keep in stock.
The stated noise level can help you compare appliances that already fit your available space. The figures on manufacturers’ specification sheets cannot predict exactly how noisy an appliance will seem in your home.
When choosing a main fridge for a studio flat or small home, first compare the available space with your storage needs.
| Criterion | What to check before buying | Who it matters most to |
|---|---|---|
| Size and installation | Measure the appliance, the space and the route to it; check that the door can open and that the clearances specified in the manual can be met. | I want to make sure the appliance will fit through the access points, open properly and fit in its intended space; around 31 % of consumers prioritise installation. |
| Usable fridge capacity | Compare the net fridge capacity and interior layout with your usual shopping needs. | When I store fresh food for several days, I want enough room without counting the freezer compartment; around 25 % of consumers prioritise fridge capacity. |
| Freezing capacity | Check the net capacity, the compartment’s star rating and, if you freeze fresh food, the capacity stated for the model. | If I keep frozen food or freeze portions between shopping trips, the size and function of the compartment matter; around 19 % of consumers prioritise freezing capacity. |
| Noise | Compare the stated noise levels of models that fit your chosen location. | In a studio flat where I sleep near the kitchen, I want to take the stated noise level into account before choosing; around 13 % of consumers put noise levels first. |
| Energy consumption | Compare the energy label and kWh/year figures for models with similar storage capacity. | If I keep an eye on energy use over time, I compare annual kWh with usable capacity; around 12 % of consumers prioritise energy use. |
The depth once the appliance is installed, the door swing and the route to the kitchen can all affect which models will work for you.
Measure the access points and the space, check the model’s ventilation instructions and confirm the delivery arrangements for getting it to your chosen location.
If the appliance won’t fit or can’t be installed properly, you may need to rearrange the delivery or installation.
Freezing capacity and function vary between appliances; an integrated compartment also reduces the space available for fresh food.
Compare the net freezer capacity and star rating. If you want to freeze fresh food, check the stated capacity for the exact model reference.
The energy rating alone won’t tell you the annual consumption in kWh or how much usable space you’ll have for your shopping.
For models that fit your space, compare the rating, kWh/year and compartment capacities on the energy label.
The KTR15NWEB and KTL15NWEB show two table-top fridges with the same stated external dimensions, one with and one without a freezer compartment.
The TSE1285N is an example of a table-top fridge with a small freezer compartment.
The City Combi CCG3L517EW is an example of a slim, freestanding fridge-freezer with a separate freezer compartment.
The KTe550 is a table-top fridge worth considering if available height is an important factor.
The models featured include table-top fridges, compact freestanding fridge-freezers and an integrated fridge-freezer. Check the dimensions, clearances and installation type before comparing their capacities.
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Its table-top design may be worth considering if height is limited; check the required dimensions and clearances before buying.
The product details list an adjustable thermostat, reversible door, interior light, two removable shelves and a basket.
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A fridge-freezer may suit you if you need separate spaces for fresh and frozen food, provided its height and access route are suitable for your home.
The stated capacities are 115 L for the fridge and 59 L for the freezer. The product details also list Low Frost, three freezer drawers, adjustable shelves and 39 dB.
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Consider this fridge-freezer if you want to keep fresh and frozen food in the same appliance; check that its width and other dimensions suit your space.
The product details state a fridge capacity of 153 L, a freezer capacity of 74 L and a width of 54 cm. They also list Low Frost and a four-star freezer compartment.
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This integrated model is intended for homes already set up for this type of installation; it requires a cabinet niche and a sliding door system.
The stated capacities are 174 L for the fridge and 14 L for the freezer. The product details list 146 kWh/year, 35 dB and manual defrosting for the freezer. The required niche measures 56 × 122,5 × 55 cm; the furniture door is not included.
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This fridge is worth considering if you mainly need space for fresh food and don’t need a freezer compartment.
The product details state a capacity of 82 L, adjustable shelves, a salad drawer and energy consumption of 84 kWh/year.
No. First check the model’s manual, the available height, its depth once installed and the space needed for the door to open. UFC-Que Choisir’s general advice does not replace the appliance’s specific ventilation instructions; Bosch’s guidance applies to its own products.
Compare its net capacity with what you store between shopping trips, then check the star rating and freezing capacity if you freeze fresh food. UFC-Que Choisir explains that a four-star rating means the compartment is suitable for freezing food; it doesn’t tell you how many portions it can hold.
In its guidance published on 11 December 2020, Anses recommends a temperature between 0 and +4 °C at the coldest point. Check it regularly, avoid overfilling the appliance so air can circulate, and follow the care instructions in the manual.
In France, the Ministry of the Economy states that energy labels apply to new fridges sold in shops or online; compare the label for the exact model, particularly its annual consumption and capacity. The DGCCRF reminds retailers that they must provide a delivery date or timeframe. The Ministry of the Economy specifies that the legal guarantee of conformity applies to goods sold by a trader to a private individual. When replacing an equivalent old appliance, take-back on a “one-for-one” basis is free; check separately what delivery or installation services are offered.