Joybuy Insights

2026 Buyer's Guide: How to Choose a Compact Upright Freezer?

With living spaces becoming increasingly compact, the need for a secondary freezer is often felt—whether you're a student in a studio, a couple in an apartment, or a family needing extra storage. A compact upright freezer is a practical solution for preserving food without sacrificing precious floor space. As Head of Product Recommendations at Joybuy, my role is to provide you with clear benchmarks to help you make an informed choice, away from sometimes confusing marketing claims.

The Essential Criteria for Choosing Your Secondary Freezer

Before making a decision, it's helpful to consider a few technical specifications that will make all the difference in your daily life. Here are three key points to consider based on current standards.

1. Noise Level: A Crucial Comfort Factor

If your appliance is intended for an open-plan kitchen, a studio, or a laundry room near living areas, the noise it generates is a primary factor. A quiet upright freezer is one with a noise level below 40 decibels (dB). For comparison, a quiet conversation is around 30-40 dB. A model rated at 38 dB, for example, will remain unobtrusive and won't disturb your peace. Remember to check this information on the product label.

2. Decoding the New EU Energy Label

Since 2021, the European Union has implemented a new energy rating system, ranging from A (very efficient) to G (inefficient). Don't be surprised to no longer see models rated A+, A++, or A+++. The scale has been revised to be more demanding and clearer. An appliance now rated D or E often corresponds to an old A++ model. Choosing an energy-efficient freezer with a good rating on this new scale ensures you can control your energy costs in the long run.

3. Freezing Performance: The Importance of the 4-Star Rating

The number of stars indicates the appliance's freezing capability. A 4-star freezer is the only type capable of freezing fresh food and storing it at a temperature of -18°C or lower for an extended period (up to 12 months). Models with 1, 2, or 3 stars are "freezer" compartments that can only store already-frozen products for a limited time and cannot freeze fresh food. For versatile use, the 4-star certification is therefore a must-have.

Our Top Pick for Optimized Storage

Taking these performance, quietness, and efficiency criteria into account, one model caught our attention for its excellent balance.

CHiQ JR63DSD 63L Upright Freezer

Congélateur armoire CHiQ JR63DSD 63L

Why we recommend it

The CHiQ JR63DSD freezer precisely meets the needs of users looking for an additional storage solution that is powerful and discreet. Its upright design and slim 47 cm width allow it to fit easily into a kitchen, pantry, or even an office without taking up too much space. It combines the three essential qualities : 4-star performance for safe freezing, very quiet operation at 38 dB, and a D energy class compliant with the new standards.

Advantages

  • Compact, space-saving design : At 47 cm wide and 44.7 cm deep, it's designed for tight spaces.
  • Quiet operation : Its 38 dB rating makes it suitable for installation in living areas.
  • 4-star freezing performance : Ideal for freezing fresh food and long-term storage.
  • Flexible installation : The reversible door allows for left or right-hand opening to suit your room's layout.
  • Organized storage : Equipped with three transparent drawers, this freezer with drawers allows you to easily see and access its contents, unlike a chest freezer.

Who is this product for?

This model is particularly suitable for people living in apartments or studios, students, or families who need a reliable and discreet secondary freezer to store excess groceries, batch-cooked meals, or garden harvests.

See details for the CHiQ JR63DSD

Optimize Every Corner of Your Home

Space optimization isn't just for the kitchen. Once your food storage is under control, the same logic can be applied to other areas of the home, like your wardrobe. A well-organized closet not only saves space but also helps better preserve your clothes.

A simple solution is to use accessories designed to maximize space, like ultra-slim hangers.

Set of 20 Slim, Non-Slip Velvet Hangers

Lot de 20 cintres fins en velours antidérapant

Their ultra-slim profile can free up to 50% more space compared to traditional wood or plastic hangers. The velvet coating prevents clothes from slipping, which is ideal for silk blouses, suits, or dresses. It's a practical solution for preserving the shape of your clothes, including your finest designer dresses.

Discover these space-saving hangers

Frequently Asked Questions About Small Upright Freezers

What is the energy consumption of a small freezer?

Consumption depends on its energy class (on the new A-G scale), its volume, and how it's used. A 60-70 litre model rated D, like the one featured, typically consumes around 150 kWh per year. For a precise estimate, always refer to the annual kWh consumption indicated on the product's energy label.

What is the difference between an upright freezer and a chest freezer?

The upright freezer is vertical and opens like a refrigerator. It's equipped with drawers or shelves, which makes organizing and accessing food much easier. It's ideal for narrow spaces. The chest freezer, on the other hand, is horizontal and often offers a larger storage volume for a similar footprint, but it's less convenient for finding a specific item, which can end up at the very bottom.

Where can you install a secondary freezer?

A small upright freezer can be installed in many places: a kitchen, pantry, laundry room, or garage. For installation in an unheated room like a garage, check the appliance's "climate class," which indicates the ambient temperature range in which it operates optimally. Thanks to their low noise level, the quietest models can even find a place in an office or an open-plan utility room.