For a studio flat or second kitchen, first measure the space, the delivery route and how far the door can open. Then choose a size based on what you need to store. A tabletop model can suit occasional use, while a one-door fridge prioritises chilled storage. If you regularly store frozen food, consider a separate freezer compartment. A built-in appliance also requires a compatible housing unit and door fixing. Finally, compare the internal layout, energy label and installation instructions for each model.
If this will be your main fridge, check that you can get it into the kitchen and open its door before comparing capacities. The French retailer BUT, for example, recommends tabletop models for studio flats and small kitchens.
You’re looking for extra chilled storage for drinks or everyday food, without necessarily installing a large appliance. The usable capacity you need will depend on what you plan to store.
If you’re replacing an appliance fitted into a unit, measure the housing and check how the cupboard door is fixed. Bosch Home Appliances recommends consulting the installation instructions for the specific model you choose.
First decide where the appliance can go and how much room you need for fresh or frozen food. Then compare installation requirements, noise levels and stated energy consumption for models that meet your needs.
| Consideration | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Access and door opening | Appliance and access-point dimensions; door swing and opening direction; clearances specified in the instructions. | In a narrow studio flat, I need to get the fridge in and open its door without blocking the way. Around 33% of consumers prioritise this placement requirement. |
| Chilled storage | Fridge compartment capacity, shelf layout and space for the containers you usually use. | If I keep my everyday groceries in one small appliance, I mainly need practical chilled storage, not just a large total capacity on paper. This is the top priority for around 27% of consumers. |
| Frozen food storage | Whether there is a freezer compartment, its capacity and stated features, and how much room it leaves for fresh food. | I regularly store frozen food, so I need to distinguish a small compartment from one that suits this purpose. Around 20% of consumers put freezer space first. |
| Fitting and everyday use | For a built-in appliance, check the housing and fixing requirements in the instructions. For the models you compare, check annual energy consumption and the noise information on the energy label. | I want to keep my kitchen units or choose between appliances that will run in my living space. Around 20% of consumers prioritise installation compatibility or noise and energy information. |
Two appliances with similar stated capacities may divide their space differently between the fridge and freezer compartments. Shelves and drawers also affect how easily you can store your containers.
Compare the capacity of each compartment and look at the internal layout. A separate freezer compartment is only useful if it suits the way you store frozen food.
A small size doesn’t guarantee that an appliance will fit a housing unit, work with a cupboard door or meet ventilation requirements. For example, the Beko B1904N product details specify built-in installation with a sliding hinge. This feature applies to that model.
Compare the unit’s measurements and door system with the product details and instructions for the model, rather than relying on its width alone.
If the appliance isn’t compatible, you may need to modify the unit.
A fridge runs continuously. In a single-room home, its stated noise level may also influence your decision, and you can’t tell how noisy it is just from its size.
When comparing models that meet the same needs, check their annual energy consumption and noise information on the energy label. ADEME recommends using this label when choosing a household appliance.
A fridge may fit in its final position but be difficult to get through the doors, along the corridor or into the lift. Once it’s in place, you’ll also need enough room to open the door.
Measure the access points from the entrance and check the delivery dimensions, door swing and whether the door can be reversed for the model you’re considering.
Beko’s range includes built-in tabletop models with or without a freezer compartment, depending on the model.
Bosch Home Appliances offers freestanding and built-in one-door fridges, with configurations that vary by model.
Whirlpool France offers built-in fridges for kitchens with compatible units.
These models cater for occasional use, compact chilled storage and installation in a fitted kitchen. First choose the installation type and storage space that suit you, then check the dimensions and instructions for the model you’re considering.
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Consider this if you prioritise chilled storage in a small space. Check its dimensions and how far the door opens before deciding where to put it.
Capacity stated in the product name: 82 L. Stated energy rating: E.
If you store frozen food, check that this model’s configuration meets your needs.
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Worth considering for occasional use if a tabletop model fits the available space.
Stated capacity: 45 L. The product name lists a toughened glass shelf, adjustable feet and an E energy rating.
Before placing it under a worktop, check the dimensions, door opening and clearances specified in the instructions.
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Consider this if you want chilled storage and a compact freezer compartment for a small kitchen.
Capacity stated in the product name: 92 L. Stated energy rating: E.
Check the full dimensions and freezer compartment specifications if you plan to store frozen food regularly.
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Worth considering for a fitted kitchen if you want a built-in appliance with both fridge and freezer compartments.
The product name states a capacity of 188 L, one door, a top-mounted freezer and an E energy rating.
Compare the housing and door fixing with the model’s instructions, and confirm what comes with the appliance.
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Worth considering if you want to fit a one-door appliance in a fitted kitchen and your existing unit can accommodate it.
The product name states an E energy rating.
Check the exact capacity of this model and make sure the housing and cupboard door are compatible before choosing.
As well as capacity and installation requirements, compare the annual energy consumption and noise information for models suited to the same use. ADEME describes the energy label as a guide to choosing household appliances, but it doesn’t replace checking their dimensions or internal layout.
No. A tabletop size alone doesn’t mean an appliance is suitable for built-in installation. Check the installation type, dimensions and ventilation requirements, as well as the fixing method if you plan to attach a cupboard door. The Beko B1904N product details specify a sliding hinge for that model. Bosch Home Appliances recommends following the installation instructions for the model you choose.
Measure the final space and the whole route to it, including doors, corridors, stairs, the lift and landings. Compare these measurements with the relevant delivery dimensions, then check the door opening and the handling and installation instructions for the model you choose.
Keep a note of the appliance’s exact model number and use it to search for parts that fit. Whirlpool France says you can search its parts shop by appliance or part reference. Then check that the part you need is available.