For one or two people, start by choosing a fridge that fits the available space and installation requirements, then choose a fresh-food capacity that suits your shopping habits. A table-top model is a good choice if headroom is limited and you mainly store fresh food. If frozen food matters more, compare a model with an integrated compartment with a compact fridge-freezer, checking their capacities separately. An integrated model also needs a suitable housing unit, door fixing and ventilation, in line with the instructions.
In a studio flat or narrow kitchen, measure the available height, width and depth, as well as the space needed to open the door. Bosch and Liebherr table-top models are 85 cm high, but their widths and depths vary.
For one person, UFC-Que Choisir suggests an average usable capacity of 100 to 150 litres. The space you need also depends on how often you shop and how much food you store in advance. If there are two of you, compare the fresh-food capacity with your shared habits.
Having freezer space affects your choice: a small integrated compartment and a separate freezer section do not offer the same storage capacity. Compare their usable capacity with the space for fresh food before choosing a format.
First narrow down the formats based on the space available and whether you need a freezer section, then compare fresh-food capacity. For models that fit your kitchen, the energy label also lets you check the stated energy consumption and noise level.
| Criterion | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Size and installation | Measure the height, width and depth, then check the door swing and the clearances specified in the instructions. For an integrated model, also check the housing unit and door fixing. | When every centimetre counts, I need to be able to install and open the appliance in my kitchen. Around 31% of consumers make this their top priority. |
| Fresh-food capacity | Compare the net fridge capacity with how often you shop, without confusing it with the total capacity, which may include a freezer section. | If I cook regularly, I need space for fresh food without choosing a capacity designed for shopping trips I don't make. Fresh-food capacity comes first for around 31% of consumers. |
| Noise and energy consumption | For appliances in a suitable format, compare the stated noise level in dB and annual energy consumption in kWh on the energy label for the exact model. | In an open-plan kitchen or one close to the living area, I pay attention to noise and everyday energy use. These are the top priorities for around 19% of consumers. |
| Freezer space | Check whether there is a compartment, its rating and capacity, and how much room it leaves for fresh food. | If I regularly store frozen food, I want a compartment that suits the amount I keep, rather than relying on the word ‘compact’ alone. Around 19% of consumers prioritise an integrated freezer section. |
A freezer compartment takes up some of the appliance's space, while a model without one cannot store frozen food.
Compare the net fridge capacity and freezer-section capacity separately, based on what you actually store.
An appliance may fit in a housing unit, but its door fixing or required clearances may not suit your kitchen.
Measure the housing unit and check the installation diagram for the exact model, especially the door panel, ventilation and opening direction.
Installing an integrated model may also require you to check that the door panel and its fixings are compatible before fitting it.
Collection arrangements depend on the order and service selected; you cannot assume they are included just because you are buying a new fridge.
Check the delivery and collection options shown by the retailer, then keep confirmation of your choice.
These figures don't make an appliance suitable for your space, or tell you whether its fresh-food and freezer capacities meet your needs.
Rule out unsuitable formats first, then compare the figures on the energy labels of models designed for the same use.
The KTR15NWEA is an example of a freestanding table-top fridge for households that mainly shop for fresh food, with no integrated freezer compartment.
The Rsdci 1620 Plus is an example of a freestanding table-top fridge to consider if a width of 60 cm suits your kitchen.
Beko's table-top range lets you explore compact configurations when width and freezer space are key considerations.
The ARG94312FR is an example of a compact integrated fridge for a kitchen with a compatible housing unit.
UFC-Que Choisir suggests an average usable capacity of 100 to 150 litres for one person. Adjust this guide to how often you shop, and compare the net fridge capacity if the appliance also has a freezer compartment.
Compare their stated annual energy consumption in kWh and their energy ratings when they meet the same needs for format and capacity. The European Commission says the energy label and the product information accessed via its QR code in EPREL also provide details about noise, dimensions and capacity for the products concerned.
Yes, provided your kitchen and chosen model allow it to be installed in line with the instructions; external dimensions alone aren't enough. Check the housing unit, door-panel fixing, opening direction and the ventilation requirements for the appliance.
Before ordering, check whether your chosen service includes delivery to the room you want and collection of your old appliance, as well as any conditions you need to follow. Keep confirmation of the services you've selected so you can arrange access and handover of the appliance.
Follow the transport and set-up instructions for the model you've received. Electrolux recommends transporting its refrigeration appliances upright; check the instructions for your appliance to see what to do after delivery.