First, choose a fridge that fits the available space, allowing for the door to open and for ventilation. Then decide how much freezer space you need for your shopping. A table-top fridge without a freezer compartment gives you more fresh-food storage in a compact design. If you regularly store frozen food, look for a suitable freezer compartment or a compact fridge-freezer, bearing in mind that you’ll have less fresh-food space or a larger appliance. If you live and sleep in the same room, the stated noise level is useful for comparing models, but it won’t tell you exactly how noticeable the sound will be.
A table-top model could suit a small kitchen, but remember to measure the space needed to open the door and allow air to circulate around the appliance. UFC-Que Choisir describes this style as suitable for studio flats, but installation requirements vary from model to model.
Fridge capacity and shelf layout matter more to you than having a large freezer. UFC-Que Choisir suggests 100 to 150 litres of usable capacity for one person, but you should consider how often you shop and what you buy.
Check the type and capacity of the freezer section before opting for the smallest appliance available. An integrated freezer compartment takes up space in the fridge, while a separate freezer will usually need more room.
For a studio flat, start by measuring the available space, then decide how you want to divide capacity between fresh and frozen food. The Bosch KTR15NWEA and KTL15NWEB illustrate this trade-off in the same stated dimensions of 85 × 56 × 58 cm: Bosch lists 134 l of fridge capacity for the first model and 106 l for the second, which includes a freezer compartment.
| Feature | What to check | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Size and installation | Overall dimensions, door opening and the clearances specified in the model’s manual. | If my kitchenette is narrow, I need to be able to open the fridge and meet its installation requirements. Around 31% of consumers prioritise this fit. |
| Fresh-food capacity and storage | Fridge capacity rather than total capacity, plus the space available on the shelves and in the door. | When I mostly buy fresh food, I want to store bottles, food and leftovers without overcrowding the shelves. Around 25% of consumers put this layout first. |
| Freezer capacity | The type and capacity of the freezer compartment, or whether there is a separate freezer. | If I often keep frozen food or prepare meals in advance, a small freezer may not suit my needs. Around 19% of consumers put freezer space at the top of their list. |
| Noise and energy use | The stated noise level in dB(A) and the energy consumption shown on the model’s energy label. | If I sleep or work near the appliance, noise and energy use matter every day. Around 25% of consumers consider them their top priority. |
An integrated freezer compartment reduces the space available for fresh food and may be too small if you buy a lot of frozen food. UFC-Que Choisir advises against relying on a basic freezer compartment if frozen food makes up a significant part of your shopping.
Think about what you usually store or freeze, then compare the type and capacity of the compartment with those of a model that has a separate freezer.
Even if the appliance’s dimensions mean it will fit, you still need to install it according to the instructions in its manual. Electrolux France highlights the need to allow air to circulate and to keep the appliance away from heat sources.
Before buying, check the clearances, door opening and ambient temperature requirements for the exact model you’re considering.
UFC-Que Choisir points out that the same stated noise level doesn’t necessarily mean the noise will be equally noticeable. The type of sound and any vibrations also matter in a studio flat.
Compare the dB(A) ratings and, if keeping noise to a minimum is important, look for tests or reviews that discuss the noise from the specific model.
In a small home, keeping two fridges while you arrange the replacement can make access and installation more difficult.
Ask the retailer how collection of your old appliance works and make sure there’s enough room to get it out when your new fridge is delivered.
These two table-top fridges have the same overall dimensions, making it easy to compare the fresh-food space with and without a freezer compartment.
The Rdi 1621 is worth comparing if the stated noise level and fresh-food storage are important to you.
Beko’s French range of table-top fridges includes models worth considering when width is limited.
These two compact appliances suit different needs: the CHiQ JR227LSE has separate fresh-food and freezer sections for mixed shopping, while the CHiQ JR92DSE offers a smaller design with a freezer compartment. Check the installation dimensions and make sure there’s enough room for your shopping before choosing.
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Worth considering if your shopping includes both fresh and frozen food and its size suits your kitchen.
Stated capacities: 153 l for the fridge and 74 l for the freezer; stated width of 54 cm, 4-star freezer rating, reversible door, Low Frost and energy rating E.
Before buying, check the height, depth, door opening and clearances specified in the manual. The stated noise level of 39 dB alone won’t tell you how noticeable it will be.
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Worth considering for a small space if its stated capacity of 92 l suits your shopping habits.
The model name indicates that it has a freezer compartment and an energy rating of E. Check the capacity and features of this compartment if you regularly store frozen food.
Also compare the overall dimensions, clearances in the manual and stated noise level before placing it in a living space.
Measure the height, width and depth of the space, then allow room for the door to open and for the clearances specified in the model’s manual. Before making your choice, also check the ventilation requirements and the recommended ambient temperature.
Not necessarily. The stated noise level helps you compare appliances, but it isn’t enough to predict how noticeable the sound will be. UFC-Que Choisir points out that vibrations and the type of sound can affect how noisy an appliance seems, even when its rating is similar to others.
Compare the stated energy consumption, efficiency rating, noise information and compartment capacities, while bearing in mind how much space you need. ADEME describes the energy label as a way to compare the energy use and noise levels of the appliances it covers.
When you order a replacement, ask the retailer what arrangements they offer for collecting your old appliance. If delivery and collection are arranged, check the details and clear a path for both appliances.