Studio flat or small-kitchen dweller
If space is tight, check the depth, delivery route and clearance needed to open the door too. Even if an appliance fits into the alcove, it could still obstruct the way through.
Which style is right for you?
Fresh-food and leftovers fan
If you prepare meals in advance, focus on the fridge capacity and shelf layout rather than the total capacity alone. You’ll need enough room to store your containers without overcrowding the appliance.
Small household that buys frozen food
If frozen food is a regular part of your shopping, compare the fridge and freezer capacities separately. A small built-in compartment may not meet the same needs as a separate freezer.
Which features should you prioritise?
Que Choisir compares fridge styles based on factors such as available space, how often you shop and whether you need a freezer. These three questions can help narrow down your options before you look at the features of individual models.
Under-counter fridge
Consider this if: space under the worktop or in a studio flat is your main constraint, and you don’t buy much food at a time.
Bear in mind: capacity is limited and, depending on the model, there may be no freezer compartment.
Single-door fridge
Consider this if: fresh food and prepared meals make up most of what you need to store.
Bear in mind: a model without a freezer won’t replace a separate freezer space.
Fridge freezer
Consider this if: you regularly buy frozen food and need a separate freezer compartment.
Bear in mind: some of the appliance’s capacity is given over to frozen food rather than fresh food.
| Factor | What to check | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Space needed for installation | Measure the height, width and depth, as well as the door clearance. Check the required clearances in the model’s manual. | In a kitchen where every bit of space matters, I want to install and open the appliance without blocking access. Around 36% of consumers put this first. |
| Capacity and storage | Compare fridge and freezer capacities separately, then check whether there’s room for the containers you usually use. | When shopping and leftover containers start to pile up, I need enough room to store them without crowding the shelves. This is a priority for around 29% of consumers. |
| Temperature control | Check the temperature setting or display and, depending on your needs, the type of air circulation. | If I often store home-cooked food, I want to monitor the temperature and organise food properly. Around 21% of consumers prioritise this. |
| Noise and energy use | Compare the dB(A) ratings and energy-label information of appliances with a similar style and capacity. | In a studio flat or open-plan kitchen, I consider how noticeable the noise will be in the room. I may also prioritise energy use. Around 14% of consumers put one of these two factors first. |
Mistakes to avoid
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Checking only the width at the front
The depth, door clearance or ventilation requirements could prevent installation, particularly under a worktop or in an alcove.
Measure the space and delivery route, then compare them with the dimensions and installation instructions for the model you’ve chosen.
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Assuming a small freezer compartment is the same as a separate freezer
A built-in compartment takes up space that could otherwise be used for fresh food, and may not meet your needs if you regularly buy frozen food.
Compare the capacity of both compartments, and consider a fridge freezer if frozen food makes up a significant part of your shopping.
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Assuming the decibel rating guarantees quiet operation
Que Choisir points out that the stated noise level alone isn’t enough to predict how disruptive an appliance will be: the type of sound and any vibrations matter too.
Use the dB(A) rating to compare models, then look for reviews or test results that discuss noise if the appliance will be near your living space.
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Relying on air circulation alone
A feature designed to distribute cold air doesn’t replace temperature control or storage that allows air to circulate.
According to Anses, check the coldest part regularly and keep it between 0 and +4 °C. Avoid overcrowding the shelves.
Brands to consider
Bosch
Two built-in models offer different configurations to compare if you have a suitable alcove.
- According to Bosch, the KIR21NSE0 offers 136 l of fridge capacity and has a noise level of 35 dB(A). The KUL22VFD0 combines 93 l of fridge capacity with a built-in freezer compartment.
- For either model, check the alcove dimensions, hinges and ventilation requirements in the manual before choosing.
Liebherr
Under-counter models to consider when you need a compact appliance, without overlooking its depth.
- Liebherr lists the KTe550 as measuring 85 × 55 × 60,7 cm, with a total capacity of 125 l and a noise level of 35 dB. The Rdi 1620 Plus is listed at 85 × 60 × 60,7 cm, 141 l and 34 dB.
- Check the listed depth of 60,7 cm against the space available and the installation instructions for your chosen model.
Beko
The TSE1504FN is an example of a freestanding under-counter fridge for those who mainly need fridge space.
- Beko describes this model as having static cooling, no freezer and a reversible door.
- If you regularly store frozen food, this model without a freezer won’t meet your needs.
Fridges to compare on Joybuy
These models include three fridge freezers for storing fresh and frozen food, as well as a compact single-door fridge with a small freezer compartment. Compare their capacity with your usual shopping, then check that the model you’re interested in will fit.
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CHiQ JR227LSE, 227 l silver fridge freezer
Worth considering if you need space for fresh and frozen food in a narrow kitchen.
The product title lists 153 l for the fridge and 74 l for the freezer, a width of 54 cm and a reversible door. Its Low Frost function doesn’t mean it’s completely frost-free.
Check the height, depth, door clearance and ventilation gaps before deciding where to put it.
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Comfee' RCB169WH2(E), 174 l white fridge freezer
This freestanding fridge freezer is aimed at shoppers who also want to store frozen food without choosing a particularly tall appliance.
The title lists a height of 150 cm, a reversible door, an adjustable thermostat and a Low Frost system. You may still need to defrost the appliance.
Check the door clearance and ventilation gaps in the manual before installation.
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Hisense RB3K330SAFC, 330 l fridge freezer
Worth comparing if your kitchen can accommodate a larger-capacity fridge freezer for your shopping and frozen food.
The title describes a freestanding, frost-free fridge freezer with fan-assisted cooling and a noise level of 35 dB. Its 330 l capacity alone won’t tell you whether it will fit in your kitchen.
Measure the space and delivery route, then check the ventilation clearances specified for this model.
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CHiQ JR92DSE, 92 l single-door fridge
Consider this when space is limited and you only store a small amount of shopping or leftovers at a time.
The title mentions a small freezer compartment. Check its capacity and temperature before relying on it for frozen food. The stated 92 l capacity could feel limiting if you don’t shop often.
Also check the model’s height, depth and installation requirements.
Frequently asked questions
What temperature should leftovers be kept at in the fridge?
According to Anses, the coldest part of the fridge should be kept between 0 and +4 °C, and its temperature should be checked regularly. Store the most perishable foods there, especially homemade dishes containing animal products, and avoid overcrowding the shelves.
How can I tell if a fridge will really fit in my kitchen?
Compare its overall dimensions with the space you’ve measured, allowing for the delivery route, door clearance and the gaps specified in its manual. For a built-in model, also check the alcove dimensions and hinge system for the exact model.
Is fan-assisted or ventilated cooling enough to keep leftovers fresh?
No. More even air circulation doesn’t replace setting and checking the temperature. Que Choisir describes these cooling systems as ways to distribute air more evenly. Anses also stresses the importance of not overloading the fridge.