While a mini fridge won't replace your full-size refrigerator, it certainly can be handy for keeping food and drinks cold. These compact coolers are ideal for dorm rooms, garages, guest bedrooms and general use when space is tight.
Of course, you’ll need to pick a fridge with enough space and features to suit your purpose. The Black and Decker Mini Fridge With Freezer is roomy and efficient, making it a great choice for when you need additional cold storage.
Mini fridges have many purposes. While some are nearly the size of a small refrigerator, others are quite small and work best for cooling the odd six-pack. It's best to select the right type of mini fridge based on your needs.
The size of your fridge is directly related to its purpose.
Some mini fridges don't have enough depth in the door to store gallon jugs or 2-liter bottles. Additionally, the smallest options only have one rack to organize what's in the fridge. Think ahead about what you plan on storing and select the appropriate interior organization. This may be a combination of door storage, small drawers and adjustable racks.
A reversible door allows you to open your fridge from the left or right. You can adjust it as needed, which helps if you move it and have to change the orientation. This is a critical feature when space is tight.
A separate freezer creates its own temperature zone for icy cold popsicles and even long-term storage of foods that are prone to spoiling. If you require freezer space, look for a fridge that has a separate compartment with a door and separate temperature controls.
These compact fridges work hard to cool their contents, but this can reflect in your electric bill. While the cost of operation can add up, some models are more efficient than others. Look for Energy Star certification for the most efficient mini fridge.
Adjustable racks allow you to better organize the contents of your fridge. It also makes it possible to accommodate taller items.
The price varies widely depending on the size of the mini fridge and any additional features. You can expect to spend between $50-$300.
A. If you want more accurate temperature controls, purchase a larger mini fridge. Mid-sized refrigerators have temperature controls that are similar to their full-sized counterparts and often include freezers that actually keep the contents frozen.
A. You don't have to live in a dorm room to benefit from a mini fridge. Other uses include:
A. Setting up your mini fridge is straightforward.
Black and Decker Mini Fridge with Freezer
What you need to know: This is a solid mini fridge from a trusted brand.
What you’ll love: It features 3.2 cubic feet of space in the fridge and a separate freezer compartment. You can easily adjust the temperature gauge, too. Its quiet operation makes it perfect for even the smallest spaces, and it comes in three colors.
What you should consider: It is not the best option for long-term food storage.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
What you need to know: The retro styling of this mini fridge brings a fun and funky touch to your decor.
What you’ll love: This is the perfect option to store overflow sodas, fruit and drinks. It has a 4-liter capacity, and its compact size makes it portable. Choose from six fun colors.
What you should consider: It's pretty loud, and it's not the coldest fridge option.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Midea Compact Single Reversible Door Refrigerator
What you need to know: This mini fridge is perfect for dorm rooms or guest spaces.
What you’ll love: It offers 1.6 cubic feet of cooling in a compact box. The door is reversible, making it easy to adapt to any space. It is very energy efficient and has adjustable legs, and comes in four colors.
What you should consider: The freezer compartment is only a little colder than the fridge area, so it may not be cold enough for frozen items.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Suzannah Kolbeck writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.