For a studio flat or open-plan kitchen, measure the space first and work out how much fresh and frozen food you need to store. A table-top fridge may be enough if you shop regularly, while a compact fridge-freezer is a better choice if you use the freezer often. UFC-Que Choisir highlights how important noise can be in a living space. Compare the stated noise levels, but don’t treat them as a guarantee of a peaceful night’s sleep. Check the installation instructions for your chosen model, too.
If your bed or workspace is close to the fridge, compare its stated noise level, but bear in mind that the type of sound matters, too. UFC-Que Choisir highlights how the sound’s frequency and vibrations can affect how noisy an appliance seems.
You need to fit the appliance into a compact space and still be able to open the door, without sacrificing the storage space you need for your shopping. UFC-Que Choisir recommends considering the appliance’s size and usable capacity in relation to your home and the number of people living there.
If you buy frozen food, decide whether a small built-in freezer compartment will meet your needs or whether you need a separate freezer space.
If your fridge will be close to a living space, weigh up its stated noise level, the space you actually have, freezer capacity and energy use. UFC-Que Choisir highlights how important noise levels are in a studio flat or open-plan kitchen. ADEME points out that fridges run continuously, and that an appliance that’s too large or has more features than you need can push up your bills.
| What matters | What to check | Who is most concerned? |
|---|---|---|
| Noise in your living or sleeping space | Compare the stated dB(A) level for the exact model. If there’s a relevant independent listening test, look it up. | If the appliance is near my bed or workspace, I compare noise levels without assuming a number guarantees quiet. Noise is the top priority for around 36% of consumers concerned. |
| Size and fresh-food storage | Compare the height, width and depth with the space available and how far the door can open. Check the fridge compartment’s capacity. | When every centimetre counts, I want the appliance to fit while still leaving enough room for my shopping. Space and fresh-food storage come first for around 29% of consumers concerned. |
| Freezer capacity | Check the freezer compartment’s capacity and features separately; don’t assume its capacity from the total volume. | If I regularly store frozen food, I check that the compartment is more than just a small extra. Freezing capacity is the top priority for around 21% of consumers concerned. |
| Electricity use | Compare the kWh/year on the energy label or product specifications for models whose volume and layout suit your needs. | As a fridge runs continuously, I compare the kWh/year without choosing a capacity that’s larger than I need. Energy use is the priority for around 14% of consumers concerned. |
A built-in freezer compartment takes up some of the total capacity. The Beko TSE1284N specifications list 101 l for fresh food and 13 l for the four-star compartment.
Compare the capacity of each compartment with what you actually store, rather than relying on the total capacity alone.
UFC-Que Choisir points out that sound frequency and vibrations affect how noise is perceived. A dB figure alone can’t predict how comfortable the appliance will be in your room.
Use dB as a starting point for comparison and, if possible, look for an independent listening test of the exact model.
The built-in compartment in the Beko TSE1284N has a capacity of 13 l. This may not be enough if you regularly store frozen food.
Think about what you keep in the freezer before choosing between a table-top fridge and a separate fridge-freezer. If the compartment is too small for your needs, you may need a second appliance.
Worth considering if you’re looking for a table-top fridge with a small built-in freezer compartment.
The models mentioned show two different options: a table-top fridge without a freezer and a taller fridge-freezer.
The models mentioned let you compare a table-top fridge without a freezer compartment with one that has a built-in compartment.
This selection includes table-top fridges with and without small freezer compartments, as well as compact fridge-freezers. Check that each model’s size and capacity suit your space and food storage habits.
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Worth considering if you prioritise fresh-food storage in a table-top size, without a built-in freezer compartment.
Stated capacity: 82 l. Energy class E.
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Its table-top size is worth considering if you need a compact appliance with limited storage space.
Stated capacity: 45 l. The listed freezer compartment is 3 l. The product title mentions an adjustable glass shelf and energy class E.
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Worth considering if you’d like fresh and frozen food storage in one compact appliance.
The product title lists 115 l for the fridge and 59 l for the freezer, Low Frost technology, 39 dB and energy class E. Low Frost reduces frost build-up but doesn’t mean the appliance is frost-free.
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Worth considering if you’re looking for a small appliance with a built-in freezer compartment. Check that it has enough capacity for your frozen food.
Stated total capacity: 76 l. The product title mentions a 6 l compartment.
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Worth considering if you need two separate storage compartments and have enough room for a taller appliance.
The product title lists 153 l for the fridge, 74 l for the freezer, a width of 54 cm, Low Frost technology and energy class E. Low Frost reduces frost build-up but doesn’t mean the appliance is frost-free.
No, this figure doesn’t guarantee a particular level of acoustic comfort. UFC-Que Choisir points out that sound frequency and vibrations affect how noise is perceived. Use dB as a comparison guide, not as a promise of silence.
Not without checking the manual for your model. Check the installation and ventilation instructions, as well as the space needed to open the door. Bosch notes that its general guidance doesn’t replace the appliance manual.
Compare the kWh/year shown on the energy label for models with a capacity that meets your needs. ADEME points out that a fridge runs continuously and that a larger size or unnecessary features can push up your bills. The stated kWh figure alone can’t predict your personal energy use.
The French Ministry of the Economy states that an energy label is required for fridges sold online and in shops. If a business sells an appliance to an individual, the legal guarantee of conformity applies to new, second-hand and refurbished goods. Check the official terms that apply. If you’re replacing an old appliance, ask the retailer about the ‘one-for-one’ take-back arrangements described by the ministry responsible for the environment.