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Mini Fridge Buying Guide

Lowe's Editorial Team

By Lowe's Editorial Team
Published July 23, 2024

A mini refrigerator is a smart choice for small spaces like your dorm, garage or bedroom. There are different types to consider, based on measurements, storage capacity and features. Let’s look at what to consider before you make your purchase.

Types of Mini Fridges

When deciding on a mini fridge, consider the capacity you require and the intended purpose for maximum utility. It can range from 0.2 cubic feet to 7.99 cubic feet based on your needs.

Compact Cube Mini Fridges

Compact cube mini-fridges are small and portable. They are the most lightweight ​type of mini fridge. Since they are lightweight, they do not have the best insulation. Due to this, their running costs may be high.  

The standard compact mini fridge size is:
Height: 17 to 20 inches
Width: 17 to 20 inches 
Depth: 17 to 20 inches
Capacity: 1.5 to 2.5 cubic feet (42 to 71 liters)

Mid-Size Mini Fridges

Mid-sized mini fridges have more storage space. You’ll usually see these models in hotel rooms. They are more energy efficient than cube mini fridges. This makes them suitable for commercial use. 

The standard mid-sized mini fridge size is:
Height: 26 to 32 inches
Width: 18 to 24 inches 
Depth: 18 to 24 inches 
Capacity: 2.5 to 3.5 cubic feet (71 to 99 liters) 

Mini Bar Fridge

This type of mini fridge is specifically meant to hold beverages. They have transparent doors through which you can see the contents directly. Although the racks are meant for beverages, they can also be used to store snacks. When buying a beverage cooler, be mindful about the capacity you need to ensure cooling. These can be used both indoors as well as outdoors to keep your drinks cool.

The standard mini bar fridge size is: 
Height: 20 to 30 inches
Width: 15 to 21 inches
Depth: 17 to 22 inches
Capacity: 1.0 to 3.0 cubic feet (28 to 85 liters)

Mini Fridge Types by Door

Single Door

Single-door mini fridges have one door for both the fridge and the internal freezer. They are more suitable for use by a single person or in a dorm room. They have a limited number of shelves and a single cooling system. ​​As a result of their small size, they are also energy-efficient. Some models contain large door shelves to store up to 2-liters.  

Double Door

Double-door mini fridges have separate doors for the fridge and top freezer. This provides better temperature control. Some models also have removable shelves and sliding drawers which enhances their functionality. They also offer plenty of storage space and excellent cooling. Double door mini fridges are ideal for small families.

See-Thru Door

Mini fridges with transparent doors allow you to view the contents without opening the fridge. This saves energy as you do not need to unnecessarily open the fridge. These are most often used for beverages and have a powerful compressor. The storage racks can be removed to create extra space for larger items. 

Features to Look for

These are some key features to look for in a mini fridge:

Freezer Type

If you don’t have much use of ice cubes and frozen foods, you can opt for a freezerless mini fridge. Conversely, if you need a freezer, consider these:

Internal Freezer

This is essentially a compartment within the mini fridge cabinet meant to store items that need to be frozen. It often comes equipped with an ice tray.

Top Freezer

A top freezer is basically a separate compartment above the mini fridge. It is smaller in size compared to the refrigerator compartment. It allows for more space in the mini fridge with all your ice creams and frozen foods stored separately. 

Drawer Freezer

A drawer freezer helps to utilize the vertical space in your mini fridge. This is so you can store and access your frozen meals conveniently.  

Energy Star Certified

The best mini fridge freezers are ENERGY STAR certified, which helps reduce utility bills. These meet strict energy efficiency criteria to earn the ENERGY STAR rating, making it reliable and durable.  

Fingerprint Resistance

Mini fridges that come with fingerprint-resistant finishes are a plus. They’re easier to maintain and keep the fridge looking sleek. ​This feature protects the fridge from oil, grease and drink spills. 

Can Dispenser

Some mini fridge types come with built-in can dispensers. This makes for easy accessibility. This can dispenser is essentially a rack which allows for better organization.  

Dual Evaporator Cooling System

The Mini Fridge Dual Evaporator Cooling System is a parallel system that runs each evaporator independently or simultaneously as needed. This flexibility allows very precise cooling, making such a fridge ideal for restaurants and homes. This is crucial for optimal cooling in both the freezer and fresh food compartments.

Electronic Temperature Control

Some mini fridges come with manual temperature controls. This helps you ​adjust the temperature according to the needs of the items being stored. These help keep the temperatures constant. 

Built In

Built-in mini fridges are space efficient and are designed to fit under counters. These are made with hidden hinges for a clean look.

Other Applications for Mini Fridges

While mini fridges are great for storing food items and beverages, they can also be used for:

Cosmetics

A mini fridge is perfect for storing cosmetics and makeup essentials. This includes serums, eye creams, face masks and so on.  

Medical Supplies

Certain medical supplies, such as insulin, need to be stored at the perfect temperature. A mini fridge can be useful in such a case. This is mostly for commercial use, such as in pharmacies.