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A mini fridge keeps food and beverages cold while taking up only a fraction of the real estate of a traditional refrigerator. Many people rely on these compact machines for supplementary storage, whether for beverages in a finished basement or for perishable pet food in the garage.
Mini fridges cost less up front and consume less energy than full-size units, so they’re a great way to save money in the long run. We selected the best mini fridges based on in-depth research into specifications, features, and customer reviews. We scoured the market to provide a list of top favorites in each category.
- BEST OVERALL: GE Double-Door Mini Fridge With Freezer
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Black+Decker Mini Fridge With Freezer
- UPGRADE PICK: Cafe Built-In Dual-Drawer Refrigerator
- BEST WITHOUT FREEZER: Danby Iridium Silver Mini Fridge
- BEST FOR DORMS: Frigidaire Compact Dorm Fridge
- BEST FOR OFFICES: Antarctic Star Wine Cooler and Beverage Refrigerator
- BEST FOR BEVERAGES: NewAir Dual Zone 15-Inch Built-In Wine Cooler
- BEST DESIGN: Galanz Retro Compact Refrigerator
- MOST PORTABLE: AstroAI Mini Fridge 6-Can Thermoelectric Cooler
- ALSO CONSIDER: Midea Compact Single Reversible Door Refrigerator
How We Chose the Best Mini Fridges
Extensive research into a wide number of mini fridges, as well as significant time spent examining the top features of these products, helped to select the top mini fridges based on the size, capacity, type, style, and overall quality. Mini fridges fall into four categories that each have distinctive sizes, capacities, and styles, so it was necessary to inspect and find top options that could represent each type of mini fridge.
The size and capacity of a product related directly to the installation of the mini fridge but also to the items that could be kept cool inside of it. The limitations of some small refrigerators, like bulky exteriors or disorganized interiors, dropped their overall appeal to the average person, while some interesting style choices, like bright, vibrant colors or retro handle designs, helped other mini fridges stand out from the crowd. Our final consideration was the quality of the products; there is no point in having a fridge if it fails to keep the contents cool or constantly goes on the fritz.
Our Top Picks
Our guide features mini fridges in a variety of sizes and configurations from the top refrigerator brands on the market. Explore this curated list of countertop, freestanding, built-in, and portable models to find the best-value mini fridge for the home, office, dorm room, or other location.
Best Overall
GE Double-Door Mini Fridge With Freezer
Pros
- Plenty of separate freezer space; can even fit bulky items like ice cream tubs
- Fridge includes a crisper drawer; ideal for fruits and vegetables
- Recessed handles reduce the exterior size to provide a more compact unit
- Frost-free fridge section is easier to maintain and prepare for moving
Cons
- Mini freezer requires manual defrosting; can slow down the moving process
Get this impressive double-door mini fridge by GE that is designed with the same functionality as a standard fridge, just on a smaller scale. It boasts a dedicated freezer space where users can keep ice cream, waffles, or other frozen foods, and it features a crisper drawer in the refrigerator section to keep fruits and vegetables fresh.
The freestanding mini fridge measures 33.375 inches tall by 18.75 inches wide by 20.125 inches deep with a total interior capacity of 3.1 cubic feet. The handles for the fridge and freezer are recessed, ensuring that they do not cause the mini fridge to stick out at all. The refrigerator part of this appliance is frost-free, so users won’t have to defrost this portion of the mini fridge before moving, but the freezer will need manual defrosting to avoid leaking water from melting ice and frost.
Product Specs
- Type: Freestanding
- Dimensions: 33.375 inches tall by 18.75 inches wide by 20.125 inches deep
- Capacity: 3.1 cubic feet
Get the GE mini fridge at The Home Depot, AJ Madison, or GE Appliances.
Best Bang for the Buck
Black+Decker Mini Fridge With Freezer
Pros
- Reversible door position provides more flexible location options
- Adjustable leveling legs; ideal for placing on uneven surfaces
- Compact fit with a recessed door handle; suitable for most spaces
- Temperature adjustable, which isn’t always a feature with mini fridges
Cons
- Restricted height makes it difficult to store any tall beverages
At 19.5 inches tall by 17.5 inches wide by 18.5 inches deep, the Black+Decker mini fridge may be the right choice for tight quarters. The door handle even recesses into the top of the door to minimize space requirements, making this an ideal apartment-size refrigerator.
In addition to 1.7 cubic feet of storage, this Black+Decker mini refrigerator features a small freezer tray at the top, which is enough room for a few small items such as ice cream bars. The fridge temp can be adjusted to as low as 33.8 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s available in three finishes, including black, silver, and white.
Product Specs
- Type: Countertop
- Dimensions: 19.5 inches tall by 17.5 inches wide by 18.5 inches deep
- Capacity: 1.7 cubic feet
Get the Black+Decker mini fridge at Amazon or Wayfair.
Upgrade Pick
Cafe Built-In Dual-Drawer Refrigerator
Pros
- Innovative pullout drawer design; provides better access to the full depth of the fridge
- Door alarm signals if the door is left open; great way to avoid accidental energy waste
- Sabbath mode prevents accidental use during religious observances
- Adjustable shelves and drawers allow users to create their ideal storage space
Cons
- Lacks a freezer function; not suitable for shoppers looking for a combo
The built-in Cafe mini fridge looks great, with a sleek, stainless steel exterior that highlights almost any kitchen. It also features two pullout drawers with a combined capacity of 5.7 cubic feet to keep food and drinks cold. This mini fridge measures 33.875 inches tall by 23.875 inches wide by 26 inches deep, and the drawers are designed with a soft-close function that prevents them from slamming.
The mini fridge has a built-in door alarm that helps to reduce unnecessary energy use and prevents the contents from going bad by signaling to the user when the door has been left open for too long. Additionally, this mini fridge has a Sabbath mode to prevent accidental use during religious observances; it automatically turns off all electrical activity when the drawers are opened.
Users can turn this feature on or off depending on their individual preferences, and the drawers and shelves can also be adjusted to the user’s ideal arrangement. Just keep in mind that this mini fridge does not have a freezer function.
Product Specs
- Type: Built-in
- Dimensions: 33.875 inches tall by 23.875 inches wide by 26 inches deep
- Capacity: 5.7 cubic feet
Get the Cafe mini fridge at The Home Depot, AJ Madison, or Appliances Connection.
Best without Freezer
Danby Iridium Silver Mini Fridge
Pros
- Removable shelves provide users with adjustable storage space if necessary
- Built-in soda-can storage; great for quick drink access
- Crisper drawer in the base of the fridge; ideal for keeping produce fresh
Cons
- Cannot be used to make ice cubes; less suitable for a bar area
This Danby mini fridge combines a large interior storage area with a compact exterior size. Standing at 33.07 inches tall, the Danby has 4.4 cubic feet of refrigeration capacity and is Energy Star certified for efficiency.
Interior features include a convenient beverage dispenser, a mechanical thermostat, and a push-button defrosting system. There’s a full-width freezer, adjustable and removable shelves, and space for tall bottles. The freestanding fridge is available in five finishes, including vibrant red.
Product Specs
- Type: Freestanding
- Dimensions: 33.07 inches tall by 21.3 inches wide by 20.75 inches deep
- Capacity: 4.4 cubic feet
Get the Danby mini fridge at The Home Depot, AJ Madison, Build With Ferguson, Appliances Connection, or Danby.
Best for Dorms
Frigidaire Compact Dorm Fridge
Pros
- Compact design can fit well in most small spaces; suitable for dorms, small apartments, mini bars, or bedrooms
- Dry-erase front door for writing notes; suitable for students or family schedules
- Very customizable design; includes adjustable thermostat and reversible door construction
Cons
- Limited space for tall or bulky items; it will be a struggle to fit big bottles
This countertop mini fridge is an excellent addition to a dorm room or a small apartment with a compact size of just 20.5 inches tall by 20.25 inches wide by 18.25 inches deep. It has a capacity of 1.6 cubic feet, and the front door of the mini fridge is specifically made to be used as a dry-erase board. This convenient dorm refrigerator allows users to leave notes for roommates or partners quickly, or even simple reminders for themselves.
Additionally, the Frigidaire mini fridge comes with a reversible door, allowing users to set up the mini fridge in the best possible location, regardless of the way the door typically swings. Just keep in mind that the compact size limits the amount of space for tall beverages and bulky food items, like pots or reusable containers.
Product Specs
- Type: Countertop
- Dimensions: 20.5 inches tall by 20.25 inches wide by 18.25 inches deep
- Capacity: 1.6 cubic feet
Get the Frigidaire mini fridge at Amazon.
Best for Offices
Antarctic Star Wine Cooler and Beverage Refrigerator
Pros
- Available in assorted sizes; suitable for a range of needs
- Designed to hold tall cans and bottles; well suited for a bar area
- Modern-looking transparent front door allows for convenient item retrieval
- Reversible door provides users with more convenient installation options and adjustability
Cons
- Not suitable for freezing beverages or making ice cubes (despite its name)
Shoppers who are looking for a countertop mini fridge for the office will want to consider the Antarctic Star Wine Cooler and Beverage Refrigerator. It boasts 3.2 cubic feet of cold storage, a clear-glass front so all can see the contents without opening the door, and a soft-blue LED light on the inside so users can choose a drink even if the lights in the room are off.
The temperature adjusts from around 40 degrees to 61 degrees Fahrenheit, ideal for keeping sodas refreshing or wine slightly chilled. The Antarctic Star fridge runs quietly so as not to disturb workers’ concentration. It comes in four sizes, ranging from 1.6 cubic feet to 4.4 cubic feet.
Product Specs
- Type: Freestanding
- Dimensions: 31.5 inches tall by 18.7 inches wide by 17.52 inches deep
- Capacity: 4 sizes, ranging from 1.6 cubic feet to 4.4 cubic feet
Get the Antarctic Star mini fridge at Amazon.
Best for Beverages
NewAir Dual Zone 15-Inch Built-In Wine Cooler
Pros
- 2 distinct zones for optimal cooling; great for bottles of both red and white wine
- Made specifically for wine bottles; fits most bottle shapes perfectly
- Digital temperature control panel looks sleek and modern compared to similar options
Cons
- No freezer; cannot be used to make ice or store frozen food items
- Not intended for food storage; strictly for use as a beverage fridge
If a home lacks a good place to keep beverages cool, this NewAir built-in mini fridge may be the answer. The mini refrigerator has enough space to hold up to 29 full-size wine bottles, and the interior capacity is about 3.2 cubic feet. The exterior of the mini fridge measures 33.75 inches tall by 14.8 inches wide by 22.6 inches deep, and it has a sleek, stainless steel finish.
Another great feature of this mini fridge is that it has been designed with two different cooling zones, allowing users to keep ice wine nicely chilled while storing a full-bodied red at a more optimal temperature in a different part of the fridge. The shelves inside the mini fridge have been designed specifically for wine bottles, and the interior lights up with a powerful LED light, making it easy to see and retrieve the correct bottle.
Just keep in mind that this mini fridge cannot function as a freezer, and it isn’t a great choice for food storage.
Product Specs
- Type: Built-in
- Dimensions: 33.75 inches tall by 14.8 inches wide by 22.6 inches deep
- Capacity: 3.2 cubic feet
Get the NewAir mini fridge at Amazon, The Home Depot, Best Buy, Wayfair, or Lowe’s.
Best Design
Galanz Retro Compact Refrigerator
Pros
- Cool retro aesthetic will add an impressive decor touch to various room styles
- Dedicated freezer with adjustable thermostat; more reliable than 1-door models
- Crisper drawer helps to keep produce fresh for longer
- Built-in can-storage rack; ideal for providing quick access to beverages
Cons
- Some plastic parts can break easily over time from frequent use
The freezers on two-door mini fridges hold more and work better than the tiny ones found in some single-door models. If shoppers are looking for a mini fridge/freezer combo, this Galanz could fit the bill. At 35.16 inches tall by 23.31 inches wide by 19.17 inches deep, this mini fridge can fit nicely in a garage workshop, basement rec room, or student’s dorm room.
The Galanz mini fridge features 3.1 cubic feet of total storage space—plenty for keeping beverages and snacks close at hand in a compact refrigerator that adds a cool retro design to a space. The adjustable thermostat maintains the refrigerator compartment between 32 and 47 degrees Fahrenheit, while the freezer can go 0 degrees Fahrenheit or below. It’s available in several retro colors, including hot rod red, bebop blue, surf green, vinyl black, and milkshake white, and has shiny chrome handles.
Product Specs
- Type: Freestanding
- Dimensions: 35.16 inches tall by 23.31 inches wide by 19.17 inches deep
- Capacity: 3.1 cubic feet
Get the Galanz mini fridge at The Home Depot, Amazon, or Wayfair.
Most Portable
AstroAI Mini Fridge 6-Can Thermoelectric Cooler
Pros
- Compact size and built-in handle; easy to tote around
- Power through the car cigarette lighter; perfect for camping or tailgating
- Includes heating mode to keep items warm on long trips
Cons
- Very limited storage of just 0.3 cubic feet; cannot hold a lot of food or drinks
- Vehicle must be running to power fridge; not ideal for extended use
For cooling power that won’t take up a lot of desktop or trunk space, check out this AstroAI small fridge that holds up to six 12-ounce beverage cans. The tiny single-door fridge has a removable shelf if users would rather stock it with yogurt or other items instead of cans. It plugs into an electrical outlet or the 12-volt cigarette lighter in the car.
In cooling mode (a heating mode keeps foods warm), the mini fridge will keep drinks refreshingly cold, but be aware that if it’s plugged into a cigarette lighter, the vehicle must be kept running so the fridge won’t drain the car battery. The portable fridge comes in a variety of colors, including black, white, pink, blue, and a lighter blue.
Product Specs
- Type: Portable
- Dimensions: 10 inches tall by 6.9 inches wide by 9.45 inches deep
- Capacity: 0.3 cubic feet
Get the AstroAI mini fridge at Amazon.
Also Consider
Midea Compact Single Reversible Door Refrigerator
Pros
- Adjustable temperature control; Energy Star certified for the eco-conscious consumer
- Reversible fridge door allows for more flexible installation options
- Quiet operation for reduced distraction when placed in work or sleep areas
Cons
- Very limited storage space; not suitable for large or bulky items
- Not great for storing tall beverages since they may not fit on the shelves
Folks who tend to work through lunch or dinner might appreciate having fresh food and cold drinks on hand. At 18.19 inches tall by 18.58 inches wide, and weighing less than 40 pounds, this Midea unit can sit easily on a desk, table, or countertop. Despite its small size, the Energy Star-certified fridge has 1.6 cubic feet of storage, and its adjustable temperature control lets users set the chill level between 33.8 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
The door on this fridge is reversible and opens on whichever side is the most convenient; the handle is recessed for a sleek look, and there’s a slide-out wire shelf inside. Another asset: The Midea runs quietly, so it won’t disturb concentration.
Product Specs
- Type: Countertop
- Dimensions: 18.19 inches tall by 18.58 inches wide by 17.72 inches deep
- Capacity: 1.6 cubic feet
Get the Midea mini fridge at Amazon.
Jump to Our Top Picks
What to Consider When Choosing a Mini Fridge
Buyers will want to weigh a number of different factors while shopping for the best mini fridge: interior and exterior size, storage capacity, organization, number of doors, energy consumption, and accessories. It’s also necessary to consider the size, capacity, and portability of the best mini fridges to find the right product for the home.
Size and Capacity
Given that there are multiple types of mini fridges, it’s only natural to expect them to come in various sizes and capacities.
- Countertop mini fridges typically range in height from about 17 inches to 21 inches, in width from about 18 inches to 22 inches, and in depth from about 17 inches to 22 inches. This gives them an average capacity of 1.5 to 1.8 cubic feet.
- Freestanding mini fridges will normally have a greater size and capacity than countertop models, so shoppers can expect to see a range in height from 30 inches to 35 inches, a range in width from 18 inches to 24 inches, and a range in depth from 19 inches to 26 inches. They will usually have a total capacity that falls between 3 cubic feet and 4.5 cubic feet.
- Built-in and undercounter mini fridges can come in a wide variety of sizes, so the expected height, width, and depth may vary significantly between products. On average, they have a capacity of about 1.5 cubic feet to 7.5 cubic feet. Height ranges can fall between 30 inches and 35 inches, while the width of these products may be just 6 inches to 36 inches. The depth follows this trend of wide size ranges with an expected measurement ranging from 20 inches to 35 inches, depending on the product.
- Portable mini fridges need to be small enough to pick up and move around, so they generally have a small capacity of between 0.2 and 0.5 cubic feet. They do not normally exceed 12 inches in height, width, or depth, allowing these products to fit comfortably in the car or under the desk.
Power and Energy Consumption
Mini fridges typically rely on two basic cooling systems: compressor-powered or thermoelectric. Fridges with compressor-powered cooling systems (the same system used by regular-size fridges) maintain accurate temperatures better than thermoelectric units. There are solar-powered fridges available, but these are rare, and most are expensive built-in units.
In general, mini fridges consume less energy than their full-size counterparts. An Energy Star–certified unit will consume the least amount of electricity possible. Most mini fridges run on standard 120-volt A/C electric power. Some, designed for use in cars, vans, or RVs, come with a D/C adapter, allowing the unit to run off of the vehicle’s battery power.
Freezer Component
If shoppers need a fully functional freezer, it’s best to stick with a standard refrigerator or purchase a stand-alone option. One-door mini fridges may have a small freezer box in the main compartment, but most can’t maintain accurate freezing temperatures (especially when powered by thermoelectric systems) because they lack thermostats. Plus, most freezers in one-door fridges are too small to be of much practical use.
Two-door mini fridges, which have a separate freezer, generally keep frozen food colder and, therefore, safer to eat. These two-door models typically have a thermostat mounted in the interior, so they maintain better temperature control than single-door models. Keep in mind that mini fridges don’t usually include an ice dispenser.
Additional Features
Mini fridges are available in a wide variety of colors and finishes, including black, white, stainless steel, wood grain, and novelty looks. The fridge can be matched to surrounding appliances for a seamless look, or buyers can let it stand out as an accent. Additionally, certain extras can make a mini fridge more appealing compared to other units. Keep these other fridge features in mind while shopping:
- Temperature control: This is a common feature on most mini fridges. A simple dial or a more advanced digital control panel allows users to set the temperature of the fridge.
- Defrosting system: Don’t worry about having to defrost the mini fridge manually before it can be moved. A built-in defrosting system helps to automatically keep the mini fridge frost-free during operation.
- Beverage dispenser: The ability to draw water straight from the fridge is normally associated with full-size appliances, but some mini fridges can come with this convenient feature.
- Shelves and bins: Most mini fridges include shelves and door bins that can hold anything from soft drink cans to 1-gallon milk jugs, depending on size. These components are adjustable in some models to optimize storage.
- Lockable doors: Some mini fridges come with doors that include a locking mechanism. This feature might be be
Types of Mini Fridges
While all mini fridges will keep perishable food from spoiling or beverages chilled, their various sizes and designs let shoppers choose a model best suited to their needs and lifestyle.
Countertop
These diminutive boxes typically contain only a cooling compartment, but some exceptions include a tiny freezer. They’re portable and designed to hold just enough drinks and food for one or two people. Countertop mini fridges come in various styles, some designed with a retro look to resemble a vintage refrigerator.
If shoppers want a mini fridge for a work cubicle, bedroom, or college dorm room, consider the portability and convenience offered by one of these units. A countertop fridge usually has a single cooling temperature and either an on/off switch or no switch at all, starting to cool as soon as it’s plugged in.
Freestanding
With more space than a counter fridge but not enough room to qualify as a standard model, freestanding mini fridges are often the choice for break rooms and dorm rooms. Some include small freezer compartments, and most have adjustable temperature dials.
Though they might be short enough to fit beneath a counter, freestanding mini fridges are not designed for permanent installation like a built-in fridge. Use these convenient refrigerators to chill wine bottles or to pack full with other beverages and snacks that can be enjoyed individually or shared with company.
Built-In/Undercounter
Though most mini fridges are freestanding on a floor, table, or countertop, under-the-counter models are usually installed in a finished kitchen. They typically top out at around 30 to 35 inches high to fit beneath a countertop. They’re often compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act Standards for Accessible Design because the fridge is at a level where those with mobility issues can easily use it. Widths range from a narrow 6 inches up to about 36 inches, depending on available space.
This type of mini fridge comes with a full range of temperature-control features and is comparable in quality to full-size built-in refrigerators. They’re not budget appliances (they often cost more than a standard refrigerator), are not considered portable, and might require professional installation to blend in with the cabinetry.
Portable
While it may seem like a given that a mini refrigerator is portable by nature, most people would be surprised by the hefty weight of one of these appliances. For this reason, shoppers can get a compact mini fridge that is specifically made for portability.
Portable mini fridges typically have removable glass shelves and an adjustable thermostat, like many mini fridges, but they lack the space for a crisper drawer or freezer. Some products have built-in handles or locking wheels on the base of the fridge so that it’s easier to move, though there are also units that feature a reversible door, allowing users to choose the best place for the mini fridge, regardless of the direction the door opens.
FAQs
Now that you have seen some of the top contenders for the best mini fridge on the market, you may still have some questions about how these refrigerators work. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about mini fridges.
Q. How do you defrost a mini fridge?
Mini fridges that include freezer compartments tend to develop frost over time, which can affect the taste of the food. Some models come with a self-defrost button, but if yours doesn’t, defrost it by removing the contents, unplugging the unit, and placing a thick towel on the bottom of the fridge compartment; then leave the door(s) open for at least 8 hours. When the frost has completely melted, wipe down the fridge’s interior and plug it back in to cool.
Q. How many watts does a mini fridge use?
Newer mini fridges that are Energy Star–certified (look for the Energy Star logo) may use as little as 100 to 200 watts of electricity. Less-efficient mini fridges may use double that amount.
Q. How much does a mini fridge cost to run?
The exact cost will depend on the fridge’s quality, how efficient it is, and the going rate for electricity in your area, but in general, expect to pay between $27 and $47 per year to run the fridge.
Q. How do you fix a mini fridge that won’t get cold?
First, check to ensure the unit is plugged in and that the circuit breaker hasn’t flipped. Then, check the temperature-adjustment dial to ensure it’s at the right temp. Frost buildup can make a unit run poorly, so defrost it if necessary. If these steps don’t help, consult your owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer.
Q. How do you clean a mini fridge?
Wipe down the interior of the fridge with a rag dampened with plain warm water. Avoid spraying cleaners into the fridge, which can leave a chemical smell that affects the food’s taste.
