Student with very little space
If the fridge needs to go next to your bed or desk, check its footprint, door clearance and noise level before settling on a capacity.
Which size is right for you?
Student who prepares several meals
If you want to keep fresh ingredients and several meals between classes, look at the usable fridge capacity and the amount of shelf space available.
Student who uses frozen food
A freezer compartment is worth considering if you’ll actually use it for food or ice cubes. Check its capacity separately from the fridge section.
What should you look for first?
Without a freezer compartment
Consider this if: you mainly keep drinks and small amounts of fresh food.
Bear in mind: you’ll need another way to store frozen food.
With a freezer compartment
Consider this if: frozen food or ice cubes are a regular part of your routine.
Bear in mind: a small compartment limits how much you can store, so check its capacity separately.
Larger compact fridge
Consider this if: you prepare several meals or regularly store more fresh food.
Bear in mind: you’ll need enough room for the appliance, its door and clear access around it.
| What to consider | What to check | What matters to consumers |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Measure the space and access route, then check the model’s dimensions and how far its door opens. | When my bed, desk and walkways already take up most of the room, I can’t choose based on the litres alone. Around 36% of consumers prioritise the space available. |
| Capacity for meals | Compare the fridge capacity with the containers you usually use, and check the shelf layout. | If I prepare several meals between classes, I need room for dishes and fresh food, not just an appliance that’s small. Meal storage comes first for around 29% of consumers. |
| Noise and energy consumption | Compare the dB and kWh/year figures for appliances of a similar type and capacity. | In a room where I sleep and study, I want to assess the potential noise without overlooking electricity use. Quiet operation and energy consumption are the priority for around 21% of consumers. |
| Freezing | Check whether there’s a freezer compartment and how much it holds, as well as the model’s defrosting instructions. | If I buy frozen food or want to keep ice cubes, I need to know what the compartment can hold. Around 14% of consumers put this need for freezer space first. |
Mistakes to avoid
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Choosing by capacity without measuring your room
Capacity doesn’t tell you the outside dimensions. The models listed by Boulanger show how much sizes can vary: from a minibar measuring 38 × 47,5 × 37 cm to a top-mount model measuring 55 × 89,5 × 57,5 cm.
Measure the space, access route and clearance needed to open the door, then check the dimensions of the exact model.
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Opting for a freezer compartment by default
If you only store fresh food and drinks, this feature won’t meet your main need. Don’t confuse the stated freezer capacity with the space available for fresh food.
Make a list of the frozen food you usually buy before comparing the capacity of the two compartments.
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Relying on the thermostat setting alone
For storing the relevant foods, Anses recommends a temperature between 0 and +4 °C in the coldest part of the fridge.
Once the fridge is installed, check the temperature regularly with a thermometer and adjust the appliance according to its manual.
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Ordering before checking your accommodation’s rules
Installation requirements can vary depending on your residence, landlord and accommodation. Don’t assume that you’re allowed to have an appliance in your room.
Ask for confirmation and check any installation requirements before ordering.
Without prior approval, you may have to put the appliance somewhere else or not use it in your room.
Brands to consider
Frigelux
Frigelux’s range includes compact fridges in different sizes, which you can compare based on the space available and what you want to store.
- Models with different capacities let you compare minibars, cube fridges and top-mount models.
- Check the noise level and energy consumption of each model individually; they won’t be the same across the whole range.
Electrolux
Worth considering if you’re looking for an under-counter fridge rather than a very small minibar.
- Electrolux offers a range designed to fit beneath an 85 cm worktop.
- If your room calls for a shorter or easy-to-move appliance, check the dimensions and installation requirements of the model you choose.
Dometic
The HiPro Alpha N30S is a 30 L thermoelectric minibar, originally designed for hotel use.
- Dometic describes this model as quiet and says it has an adjustable shelf.
- Before choosing it for a student room, check its stated noise level, dimensions and suitability for your needs.
Fridges to consider on Joybuy
Both of these models have a freezer section. The 45 L TCL is worth considering if you’re looking for a small fridge; the 92 L CHiQ is a better fit if you need more capacity and have room for it.
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TCL RF60DWE0FR, 45 L mini fridge
Worth considering for a small amount of food in a bedroom, if its freezer compartment meets your needs.
Stated capacity of 45 L, energy rating E, adjustable feet and a tempered glass shelf.
Check the clearance needed to open the door and the annual energy consumption. For perishable food, check the temperature the fridge actually maintains once installed.
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CHiQ JR92DSE, 92 L fridge with freezer section
Worth considering if you store several meals and have space for a 92 L appliance.
Stated capacity of 92 L, freezer section and energy rating E.
Check the full dimensions, freezer section capacity, noise level and annual energy consumption. Also check the temperature it actually maintains before storing perishable food inside.
Frequently asked questions
Is a mini fridge suitable for keeping meals fresh?
Yes, provided it has enough room for your meals and maintains the temperature required for the food you’re storing. Anses recommends a temperature of 0 to +4 °C in the coldest part of the fridge. Check it regularly and avoid overfilling the appliance.
How can I compare the energy consumption of two models?
Compare their annual energy consumption in kWh/year, choosing appliances of a similar type and capacity. Then look at their capacities and energy ratings. ADEME describes the energy label as a way to help you choose household appliances; the model’s product information may include the details you need to compare them.
Do I need a freezer compartment?
Choose one if you really plan to store frozen food or ice cubes in it. If you mainly keep drinks and fresh meals, compare models without a freezer compartment too. In either case, check the freezer capacity separately.
Can I put a mini fridge in my student room?
It depends on the rules for your accommodation. Check the house rules and ask your residence or landlord to confirm the installation requirements before you buy.