Start by measuring the space available, then choose the fridge and freezer capacities separately to suit how you shop. A table-top model is ideal when space is very limited; a single-door model prioritises fresh food; a fridge freezer balances capacity between fresh and frozen food; while a multi-door model needs a more spacious kitchen. Whichever you choose, check the installation requirements and door clearance in the manual.
If space is very limited and you tend to shop little and often, consider a table-top model. Que Choisir recommends this format for studio flats. For a practical example, Bosch says the KTL15NWEB is 85 cm tall and 56 cm wide. Check its depth too, as well as the space needed to open the door.
A fridge freezer lets you compare two separate capacities rather than just one overall figure. The Bosch KGN33NWDA, for example, offers 189 L of fridge space and 90 L of freezer space, according to Bosch. Que Choisir recommends taking your shopping habits and use of frozen food into account.
A multi-door model is worth considering if you need several compartments and plenty of capacity, and size is less of a concern. However, allow for its footprint: Haier says the HCW99F18DIMB is 90.5 cm wide and 73.8 cm deep. You’ll also need to check the delivery route and door clearance.
Whether you’re kitting out a kitchen after moving home or replacing an appliance, start by measuring the usable space. Then make sure the balance between fridge and freezer capacity suits your usual shopping habits.
| Factor | What to check | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Kitchen space | Measure the height, width and depth. Check the delivery route, door clearance and the gaps specified in the manual. | In a studio flat, I need to fit the appliance in without blocking the way, even if that means limiting how much I can store. Around 31% of consumers would put a compact footprint first. |
| Fresh food capacity | Compare fridge capacity separately from the total, and check whether you need a separate freezer. | If I mainly buy fresh food or already have a freezer, I’d rather use the available space for a fridge; around 23% of consumers would put this need first. |
| Balance of fridge and freezer space | Check the usable capacity of each compartment and the freezer layout against how you store frozen food. | For weekly shops that include both fresh and frozen food, I need useful capacity in both compartments. Around 31% of consumers would make this balance their priority. |
| Plenty of storage | Compare the capacity of the exact model with its dimensions and the space needed to open all its doors. | If my household’s shopping fills several compartments, I could consider a wider appliance if my kitchen can accommodate it; nearly 15% of consumers would prioritise having plenty of storage. |
Two appliances with a similar overall capacity may divide the space differently between fresh and frozen food. A large fridge compartment alone won’t meet your needs if you regularly freeze food.
Compare the usable capacity of both compartments. If frozen food is part of your usual shop, check the freezer capacity before choosing a single-door model over a fridge freezer.
The height, depth or door swing can make installation difficult, even if the width is right. The Haier HCW99F18DIMB, for example, is 905 mm wide and 738 mm deep, according to Haier.
Measure the space and delivery route, then check the manual for the chosen model’s door clearance and ventilation requirements. Bosch’s “Perfect Fit” feature for the KGN33NWDA doesn’t determine the installation requirements of another model.
Plenty of storage also calls for a suitable kitchen and delivery route. Haier advertises a capacity of up to 700 L for its Horizon collection, but this doesn’t tell you the capacity of each variant.
Check the capacity and dimensions of the exact model you’re considering, as well as the space available when its doors are open.
Old fridges must be taken to a suitable recycling route for electrical and electronic equipment. The Ministry for Ecological Transition notes that this equipment may contain components that need to be treated appropriately.
Before buying, ask the retailer what collection options can be arranged with delivery, and make sure there’s clear access to your old appliance.
Two Bosch models cater for different needs: the KTL15NWEB table-top fridge and the freestanding KGN33NWDA fridge freezer.
The WHMLF 6442 FXP4 is an example of a single-door model designed for storing fresh food.
The Horizon collection includes multi-door models to consider when you need plenty of storage and have room for a wide appliance.
These models include fridge freezers for shopping that includes fresh and frozen food, a single-door model with a freezer compartment, and a multi-door model for storing larger quantities. Compare their capacities with the space you actually have before choosing.
Image unavailable
Worth considering for storing larger quantities if your kitchen can accommodate a four-door model. The product listing states a total capacity of 467 L, Total No Frost technology and an energy rating of E. Check the manual for the dimensions, clearances and door swing.
Image unavailable
Compare this model if your shopping includes both fresh and frozen food. The product listing states a total capacity of 344 L and an energy rating of D. Before buying, check the capacity of each compartment, the depth and the clearances for this model.
Image unavailable
For a mix of fresh and frozen food, the product listing divides its 310 L capacity into 211 L of fridge space and 99 L of freezer space. It also lists a width of 60 cm, a reversible door and an energy rating of E. Check the height, depth and installation requirements too.
Image unavailable
Worth considering if width is limited but you still need two compartments. The product listing states a width of 54 cm, 153 L of fridge space, 74 L of freezer space, Low Frost and an energy rating of E. Check the height, depth and defrosting requirements for this model.
Image unavailable
Consider this model if fresh food makes up most of your shopping and an integrated freezer compartment suits your needs. The product listing states a total capacity of 179 L. Check how the space is divided between compartments, along with the dimensions and clearances in the documentation for this model.
Que Choisir suggests 100 to 150 L for one person, plus an extra 50 L for each additional person. Adjust this to how often you shop, and compare the space for fresh and frozen food separately.
No. Ventilation and door clearance requirements vary by model. Bosch says its KGN33NWDA can be placed against a wall or in an alcove thanks to “Perfect Fit”. For any other model, follow its own installation manual.
It depends on the size of its freezer compartment and how much you want to store. The Whirlpool WHMLF 6442 FXP4, for example, is listed with 365 L of fridge space and no freezer capacity. If you need to stock up on frozen food, compare the freezer capacity of fridge freezers or plan for a separate freezer.
Compare the advertised noise level in dB(A) for the models you’re considering, especially if your kitchen is next to a living area or bedroom. Que Choisir classifies the quietest appliances as those under 40 dB(A). Use this as a guide for comparison, not a guarantee that the appliance will be silent in your home.