In a studio flat, first measure the space, the door opening and the clearances specified in the instructions. A table-top fridge could be a good fit, and Que Choisir suggests 100 to 150 litres of usable capacity as a guide for one person. Choose more fridge space if you mainly buy fresh food. If you store frozen food, compare a model with a small freezer compartment against a compact fridge-freezer, depending on the space available. In a single-room home, the stated noise level can help you compare appliances, but it can’t guarantee how noisy you’ll find one.
If the appliance needs to fit under a worktop or beside a wall, check the delivery route, how far the door opens and the ventilation requirements in the instructions. Que Choisir lists a table-top fridge as a possible option for studio flats.
If you shop often and rarely buy frozen food, the fridge compartment’s capacity matters more than the total capacity shown. Que Choisir suggests 100 to 150 litres of usable capacity as a starting point for one person.
If your fridge will be in the same room as your bed or workspace, compare the stated noise levels and, if possible, listen to the model you’re considering. Que Choisir points out that perceived noise isn’t determined by the decibel figure alone.
First decide how much space you need for frozen food, then compare each type with the space you actually have and your shopping habits.
Consider this if: you mainly buy fresh food and don’t need to freeze anything.
Bear in mind: you won’t be able to store frozen food in this appliance.
Consider this if: you need space for a few frozen items in a compact appliance.
Bear in mind: the compartment reduces the space available for fresh food. For two Bosch models of the same size, the manufacturer lists 106 litres of fridge space with a compartment, compared with 134 litres without one.
Consider this if: frozen food is a regular part of your shop and a small compartment wouldn’t be enough.
Bear in mind: check that its height, door opening and the clearances specified in the instructions will work in your studio flat.
| Feature | What to check | Who should consider it? |
|---|---|---|
| Space and installation | Measure the space and delivery route; check the door opening and the clearances specified in the instructions. | In a narrow kitchenette, the appliance needs to fit without blocking the way or compromising ventilation. Around 29% of shoppers put installation fit at the top of their list. |
| Fridge capacity | Compare the capacity of the fresh-food compartment separately from the freezer; Que Choisir suggests 100 to 150 litres of usable capacity as a guide for one person. | If you mainly buy fresh food or make meals at home, having enough room to store it becomes the priority. This is the main consideration for around 29% of shoppers. |
| Freezing | Check the space available for frozen food and the compartment’s features, then compare them with what you usually buy. | If frozen food is a regular part of your shop, a small compartment may limit how much you can keep. Around 18% of shoppers put freezing capacity first. |
| Noise | Compare the noise level and class shown on the label; look for a listening test of the model if you can find one. | If your bed or desk is in the same room, operating cycles and vibrations can matter as much as the stated figure. Around 24% of shoppers put reducing noise disturbance first. |
This term doesn’t tell you the depth, usable capacity or space needed to open the door. Bosch, for example, lists different fridge capacities for two table-top models of the same size, depending on whether they have a freezer compartment.
Measure the space and delivery route, then check them against the product details and instructions for the exact model.
A small compartment leaves less room for fresh food. Que Choisir notes that a basic freezer compartment won’t be enough if you eat a lot of frozen food.
Before choosing between a fridge with one door and a compact fridge-freezer, compare your usual storage needs with the stated capacity and freezing features.
Que Choisir says that two fridges with the same stated noise level can sound different to people listening to them. Electrolux also notes that contact with a wall or cabinet can cause vibrations.
Use the decibel rating to shortlist models, then look for a listening test and follow the installation instructions.
When replacing a fridge, you’ll need to move the old one and make sure it goes through an appropriate disposal or recycling scheme.
Before delivery, find out about donation, collection or take-back options and confirm the arrangements with the relevant service. ecosystem outlines options for donating and recycling fridges.
The KTR15NWEB and KTL15NWEB table-top models let you compare an appliance without a freezer against one with an integrated compartment, despite having the same stated dimensions.
The TSE1285N is an example of a table-top fridge with a small freezer compartment for occasional frozen food.
The Rdi 1620 Plus is a table-top model worth considering if fridge capacity matters more to you than freezing.
These two appliances suit different installations: a fridge-freezer with separate spaces for fresh and frozen food, and an integrated fridge with one door and a freezer compartment. First check which type of appliance your studio can accommodate.
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Worth considering if you want separate spaces for fresh and frozen food and have room for a fridge-freezer. The product title lists 153 L for the fridge and 74 L for the freezer, a width of 54 cm, a reversible door, Low Frost technology and an energy rating of E. Check the height, depth and required clearances before deciding where to put it.
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Only consider this if your home has a suitable housing unit for an integrated appliance. The product title lists one door, a top freezer compartment, a total capacity of 188 L and an energy rating of E. Check the instructions for the housing dimensions, ventilation and door-fixing system. Also confirm whether the required door panel is included.
Que Choisir suggests 100 to 150 litres of usable capacity as a guide for one person. Adjust your choice to how often you shop and the size of the containers you use. If the appliance has a freezer, check the space available for fresh food separately.
No. It helps you compare stated noise levels, but on its own it can’t predict how disruptive the fridge will be in your room. Que Choisir points out that appliances with the same rating can sound different. If possible, listen to the model and avoid installation points where vibrations could be transferred.
Follow the clearance instructions for your specific model and type of installation. Electrolux notes that refrigeration appliances need ventilation; don’t automatically apply guidance for an integrated appliance to a freestanding model.
Arrange for it to be removed before your new fridge is delivered. ecosystem outlines options for donating or reusing an appliance that still works, as well as collection and recycling services. Check the arrangements for your chosen option before moving the appliance.