In a studio flat, first measure the space and check how far the door can open. A table-top fridge is worth considering if space is very tight, while a separate freezer compartment may be a better option if you regularly use frozen food. Que Choisir recommends 100 to 150 L for one person; adjust this to suit your shopping habits, then check the ventilation requirements in the manual and the stated noise level. This alone won’t tell you how disruptive the sound may be in a living space.
If your appliance needs to fit under a worktop or into a narrow corner, start by checking the dimensions of a table-top fridge. Que Choisir describes this format as suitable for studio flats and recommends 100 to 150 L for one person. If you choose a smaller model, think about your shopping habits.
If you only need to store a few frozen items, a model with an integrated compartment could save space. If you want to freeze food regularly, compare its capacity and features with those of a model with a separate compartment. The word ‘freezer’ alone doesn’t tell you what it can do.
If the room is also where you sleep or work, compare the stated noise levels before you buy. However, Que Choisir points out that the decibel figure alone doesn’t describe how noisy an appliance will seem: vibrations and the type of sound also matter.
First decide what type of compartments you need, then check the model’s dimensions and features against the space available in your home.
Worth considering: if headroom is limited and you shop frequently.
The trade-off: capacity may be below Que Choisir’s recommended 100 to 150 L for one person.
Worth considering: if you want to keep a few frozen items in a compact appliance.
The trade-off: the space available and freezing options depend on the specific compartment.
Worth considering: if you regularly use a separate freezer compartment.
The trade-off: you’ll need to check the height, depth and door clearance carefully.
| Factor | What to check | What I need |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Measure the width, height and depth, then check the delivery route and door clearance. Check the manual for ventilation clearances and see whether the model’s door is reversible. | I need to be able to install the appliance and open its door without blocking the way through the kitchen. |
| Capacity and freezing | Compare the usable capacity of each compartment. Que Choisir recommends 100 to 150 L for one person; for freezing, check the model’s stated capacity, star rating and freezing capacity. | I either shop frequently or want to store frozen food regularly. These habits call for different compartment options. |
| Noise | Check the stated noise level and, if possible, look for tests or reviews that mention vibrations. According to Que Choisir, the decibel figure alone doesn’t predict how disruptive an appliance will seem. | My bed or workspace is close to the fridge, so noise while it’s running matters to me. |
| Installation | Check the model’s climate class and ventilation instructions in the manual. Take nearby heat sources into account. | The kitchen may get hot, or the appliance needs to fit into an alcove. I want to make sure the space meets its installation requirements. |
| Energy label | Compare the information on current labels, including energy consumption and noise. The DGCCRF states that the A to G scale replaced the former A+, A++ and A+++ ratings in 2021. | I want to compare appliances using the same scale, without treating an old rating as equivalent to a current one. |
A fridge may fit between two units but still leave too little room to open the door or provide the required ventilation.
Measure the height and depth too, and check the delivery route and door clearance. Refer to the manual for the exact model’s ventilation clearances.
A small integrated compartment may not be suitable if you freeze food regularly.
Check its capacity, star rating and stated freezing capacity instead of relying on the compartment’s name alone.
In a studio flat, an appliance can still be disruptive even if its stated noise level seems acceptable. Que Choisir highlights that how noisy it seems depends on the type of sound.
Use the decibel rating to compare product specifications, then look for detailed information on the noise and vibrations of the model you’re considering.
The DGCCRF states that the A to G scale replaced the A+, A++ and A+++ ratings in 2021, so the letter ratings can’t be compared directly.
To choose between two appliances, check that their labels use the same scale and compare the information shown.
These examples from French product listings show how sizes can vary. The features mentioned apply to the specific models named, not to every product from each brand.
Two table-top fridges listed by BUT show how much compact models can differ in size: the 91 L RTG925EW G and the 128 L RT1325W G.
The I55T0412S is an example of a taller fridge-freezer for anyone who wants separate compartments.
The R0TT94SE is an example of a table-top fridge with a freezer compartment.
This selection includes fridge-freezers with separate compartments and a small single-door fridge with a freezer section. Compare their capacity and overall size with the space available and how often you use frozen food.
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Worth considering if you want two compartments in an appliance with a stated width of 54 cm. The product title gives a capacity of 153 L for the fridge and 74 L for the freezer, along with a 4-star compartment and a reversible door. Check the height and depth too, then consult the manual for ventilation and climate class requirements.
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This 174 L fridge-freezer may suit you if you’re looking for separate compartments and a reversible door. The product title mentions an adjustable thermostat and Low Frost technology. Check its dimensions, stated noise level and installation requirements before choosing it for a living space.
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Worth comparing if you need 262 L of capacity and have enough headroom: the product title gives a width of 54 cm and a height of 176 cm. Check the depth, door clearance and required ventilation gaps before deciding where to put it in a studio flat.
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Its 92 L capacity may appeal if you’re looking for a small appliance and shop frequently, though it’s below Que Choisir’s recommended 100 to 150 L for one person. The product title mentions a freezer section and a footprint of 0.22 m². Check the section’s capacity, the full dimensions and the stated noise level against your needs.
Que Choisir recommends 100 to 150 L for one person. A smaller appliance may be an option if space is your priority and you shop frequently. Think about the room you need for frozen food separately.
Don’t assume it is based on the word ‘freezer’ alone. Check the compartment’s capacity, star rating and stated freezing capacity. If you regularly stock up on frozen food, compare it with an appliance that has a separate compartment.
Yes. You need to follow the model’s installation requirements. Electrolux support advises leaving space for air to circulate around its appliances. For the fridge you’re buying, check the exact clearances in its manual, and make sure there’s enough room to open the door too.
No. Decibels provide a starting point for comparison, but Que Choisir notes that how noisy an appliance seems is subjective. If it will be near your bed, look for detailed information about its vibrations and the sound it makes too.
Compare labels that use the same scale and check the information shown, including energy consumption and noise. The DGCCRF states that the A to G scale replaced the former A+, A++ and A+++ ratings in 2021, so a letter on the old scale doesn’t mean the same as one on the new scale.