People living in a studio flat or with a small kitchen
Your first priority is finding an appliance that fits into a limited space, without overlooking how much room you need for the fresh food you usually buy.
Who is each option best for?
People who want to freeze food
You’ll need to distinguish between a small compartment labelled ‘freezer’ and one suitable for freezing fresh food, then decide how much space to set aside for chilled and frozen items.
People with a space under the worktop
The cabinet dimensions, ventilation and door system determine which built-in models can be installed, before you even start comparing capacity.
What should you look for first?
To store your shopping in a small kitchen, first rule out any sizes that won’t fit the space. Then compare the storage layout, freezing capabilities and features of the remaining models.
| What matters | What to check | Who should consider it? |
|---|---|---|
| Installation | Measure the height, width and depth, then check the door clearance and ventilation requirements in the manual. For a built-in model, also check the cabinet dimensions and door-fitting system. | In a kitchen where every centimetre counts, you need to be able to install the appliance and open the door without obstruction. Around 36% of consumers put this compatibility first. |
| Fridge storage | Compare the usable fridge capacity, separate from the freezer capacity, as well as the layout of the shelves, drawers and door balconies. | If your regular shopping includes bottles and fresh food that need to be stored together, the layout matters just as much as the stated capacity. For around 29% of consumers, fresh food storage is the main priority. |
| Freezing | Check the compartment’s star rating and capacity. If you want to freeze fresh food, look for a 4-star compartment. | If you prepare food for freezing or regularly keep frozen food, it may be worth setting aside some space for a freezer. Freezing is the top priority for around 21% of consumers. |
| Noise and electricity use | Compare the kWh/year and noise level in dB(A) of models that already meet your space and storage needs. | If your kitchen opens onto a living or sleeping area, appliance noise matters more. Its energy use also adds up over time. Around 14% of consumers prioritise one of these two features. |
Mistakes to avoid
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Measuring only the appliance’s width
Insufficient depth, a door blocked by a wall or inadequate ventilation could all prevent installation, even if the fridge fits into the space. Bosch specifies at least 200 cm² of clearance at the back and underneath for the relevant models. Always follow the manual for the model you choose.
Before ordering, measure all the available space, note any obstacles in front of the door and check the required ventilation clearances.
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Assuming every ‘freezer’ compartment can freeze food
The compartment’s name alone doesn’t tell you whether it can freeze fresh food. UFC-Que Choisir distinguishes between an internal compartment labelled ‘freezer’ and a 4-star compartment, which is suitable for this purpose.
Check the star rating and capacity. If you freeze food regularly, also compare fridge-freezers that can accommodate a separate freezer.
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Relying on the total capacity alone
The stated capacity may be split between the fridge and freezer. An interior that doesn’t suit your bottles or containers can also make everyday storage more difficult.
Compare the usable capacities separately and check the interior layout against the food you usually store.
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Assuming a smaller appliance always uses less energy
Size alone doesn’t tell you whether an appliance will use less electricity. ADEME points out that a fridge runs continuously, so the specifications of the exact model matter when you consider its long-term use.
Once you’ve ruled out appliances that won’t fit, compare their kWh/year, noise levels and energy ratings.
Brands to compare
Bosch
A brand worth considering for under-counter built-in appliances and model-specific installation guidance.
- Bosch lists under-counter models with a height of 82 cm.
- Its recommendation of at least 200 cm² of clear ventilation space for the relevant models doesn’t replace the manual for the fridge you choose, and doesn’t apply to all brands.
Liebherr
Its product information lets you compare both a freestanding under-counter fridge and an appliance designed to fit into a cabinet.
- Liebherr gives the external dimensions of its KTe551 under-counter model as 85 × 55 × 60,7 cm.
- The DRe 3900 Pure is designed for different cabinet dimensions, so don’t use the measurements for one model to choose the other.
Electrolux
A brand to explore when comparing under-counter built-in appliances and single-door fridges with a freezer compartment.
- Electrolux specifies a 820 mm cabinet space for its under-counter EXB3AE82R model.
- The cabinet height, ventilation and door-fitting system must be right for the specific model and your existing kitchen unit.
Whirlpool
Its freestanding and built-in fridge-freezers are worth comparing if you need a separate freezer compartment.
- The two installation types let you compare options for different kitchen layouts.
- Whirlpool lists its freestanding W7 831T KS H fridge-freezer as 191,2 cm high. Check the dimensions of each model before considering this format for a small kitchen.
Fridges for different spaces
These Joybuy models show several options for a small kitchen: built-in appliances, a freestanding fridge-freezer, a single-door fridge and a mini fridge. Compare their size and freezing features with your available space and shopping habits.
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Hisense RB3B250SAWC, 252 L built-in fridge-freezer
Worth considering if you have a suitable kitchen unit for a built-in fridge-freezer and want space for both fresh and frozen food. The model name lists a capacity of 252 L, No Frost technology and an energy rating of C. Check the cabinet dimensions, ventilation and door-fitting requirements for your kitchen.
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SMEG S4C122E, 188 L built-in fridge-freezer
This single-door model may suit a fitted kitchen where a smaller integrated freezer compartment is enough. The model name lists a total capacity of 188 L and an energy rating of E, but doesn’t state the compartment’s star rating. Check this if you plan to freeze fresh food. Also confirm the cabinet dimensions, ventilation and door system required.
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CHiQ JR227LSE, 227 L freestanding fridge-freezer
Worth comparing if you want a separate freezer but don’t have much width to spare. The model name lists a width of 54 cm, a 153 L fridge, a 74 L 4-star freezer, a reversible door and an energy rating of E. Also measure the height, depth and required clearances before choosing this fridge-freezer.
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CHiQ JR92DSE, 92 L single-door fridge
This size is worth considering when you only need limited fresh food storage and a fridge-freezer would take up too much room. The model name mentions a freezer compartment and an energy rating of E, but that alone doesn’t tell you whether the compartment can freeze fresh food. Check its star rating and the appliance’s full dimensions.
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TCL RF60DWE0FR, 45 L mini fridge
Worth considering if you have very limited space and only need to store a small amount of food and drink, rather than a large weekly shop. The model name lists a capacity of 45 L, a glass shelf and an energy rating of E. Check the space needed to open the door and the ventilation requirements before installing it.
Frequently asked questions
How can I tell if a built-in fridge will fit under my worktop?
Compare the measurements of your cabinet space with the model’s built-in dimensions, not just its external dimensions. Then check the door fitting, plinth and ventilation requirements in the manual. For example, the 820 mm cabinet height specified by Electrolux for the EXB3AE82R doesn’t define the requirements for another appliance.
Can an integrated freezer compartment freeze fresh food?
Only if it has the right classification. According to UFC-Que Choisir, a 4-star compartment is suitable for freezing food. Check the model’s star rating rather than relying on the word ‘freezer’ alone, then make sure the capacity suits your needs.
Is the energy label rating enough to choose between two fridges?
No. Compare their kWh/year figures too, once you’ve checked that both models suit your space and storage needs. ADEME points out that a fridge runs continuously. If it’s going in a living area, the model’s noise level may also influence your choice.