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Nothing beats the thrill of a late-night snack or a cold brew on a hot evening. However, it is not guaranteed you will have a standard fridge by your side. This does not prevent you from having the thrills of chilled snacks. This is where a mini fridge comes in handy. We breakdown some of the cheapest and popular mini-fridges, making rounds on the internet.
Traveling with a standard fridge can be quite such a daunting task. They are cumbersome and not designed for use on the go. This does not mean you cannot enjoy the thrills of a cold beer in your hands on a hot day. This is why you need to invest in a mini fridge, that can be so useful when travelling in your van, or when do not have enough space for a regular fridge in your room/ apartment.
Our top recommendation is the Midea mini fridge model. The mini-unit features its adjustable temperature settings. It has a large storage space suitable for snacks and beverages. It features a reversible door that saves on space.
Furthermore, the mini fridge features a separate frozen food section in the freezer compartment. The fridge has a low energy consumption due to the compressor cooling. Hence, you can shake away the worry of huge electric bills at the end of the month.Brand Name | Midea |
Item Weight | 35.3 pounds |
Product Dimensions | 17.72 x 18.58 x 19.37 inches |
Capacity | 1.6 Cubic Feet |
Marerial | Stainless Steel |
Color | Stainless Steel |
Brand Name | BLACK+DECKER |
Item Weight | 33.1 pounds |
Product Dimensions | 18.5 x 17.52 x 19.72 inches |
Capacity | 1.7 Cubic Feet |
Marerial | Steel |
Color | Black |
Brand Name | kealive |
Item Weight | 5.1 pounds |
Product Dimensions | 10.2 x 11.8 x 15.7 inches |
Capacity | 15 Liter |
Marerial | Plastic |
Color | Black |
Brand Name | hOmeLabs |
Item Weight | 45.2 pounds |
Product Dimensions | 18.5 x 17.7 x 33.9 inches |
Capacity | 3.3 Cubic Feet |
Marerial | Steel |
Color | Grey |
Brand Name | RCA |
Item Weight | 57 pounds |
Product Dimensions | 22.75 x 25.75 x 35.25 inches |
Capacity | 3.2 Cubic Feett |
Marerial | Steel |
Color | White |
Brand Name | EUHOMY |
Item Weight | 53.1 pounds |
Product Dimensions | 19.4 x 19.9 x 33.5 inches |
Capacity | 3.2 Cubic Feet |
Marerial | Steel |
Color | Silver |
Brand Name | Galanz |
Item Weight | 58.4 pounds |
Product Dimensions | 19.17 x 23.31 x 35.16 inches |
Capacity | 3.1 Cubic Feet |
Marerial | Steel |
Color | Blue |
Brand Name | FRIGIDAIRE |
Item Weight | 47.7 pounds |
Product Dimensions | 20 x 22 x 35 inches |
Capacity | 3.2 Cubic Feet |
Marerial | Steel |
Color | Coral |
Brand Name | RCA |
Item Weight | 30.4 pounds |
Product Dimensions | 20 x 18 x 20 inches |
Capacity | 1.6 Cubic Foot |
Marerial | Steel |
Color | Black |
Brand Name | RCA |
Item Weight | 47 pounds |
Product Dimensions | 17.5 x 18.75 x 32.75 inches |
Capacity | 3.2 Cu Ft |
Marerial | Steel |
Color | Silver |
When it comes to mini refrigeration units, it comes in three types. Here is a breakdown of these categories:
Just like the name suggests, these units are usually around 33 inches high and fit perfectly under kitchen counters. The units come in varied sizes ranging from compact to mini ones. The large sizes are suitable for kitchens and large studio apartments. The mini-units are suited for college dorms.
Most medium-sized units range up to 30 inches maximum. It fits perfectly under the dining room table, office desks, or kitchen counters. You can get compact sizes that are suitable for studio apartments or bedrooms. These units are not recommended for the storage of perishables. Ensure you tightly insulate any leftovers in the fridge after a remainder of four days.
If you have been in most dorm rooms, you will notice that the cube-shaped units which are popular. These units can stay on top of the countertop or office desk. The cheap unit sizes range up to 18 inches maximum. Most mini sizes occupy one or two shelves maximum.
Selecting your preferred cheap unit can prove a daunting task. It is important to note that mini-fridges do not get cold compared to the standard fridges. It is not recommended for storage of leftovers for up to four days.
The ice trays are not suitable to form making ice cubes. Therefore, it is important to consume any leftovers or perishables after a short period regularly. Here is a list of the ten most popular units in the market today.
Brand Name | Midea |
Item Weight | 35.3 pounds |
Product Dimensions | 17.72 x 18.58 x 19.37 inches |
Capacity | 1.6 Cubic Feet |
Material | Stainless Steel |
Color | Stainless Steel |
Starting off our journey into the different brands of mini-fridges is the Midea brand. Most mini-units pack a compact size that compensates for the mini size of the fridges. This is something you can approve of the model. It has a sturdy look that finishes off with a stainless steel constriction on the edges.
When it comes to functionality, the cheap unit makes up with a mechanical temperature adjustment. What makes the temperature control precision is how you can adjust depending on the foodstuff stored. In case you have perishables, you can opt for the maximum temperature. However, if only snacks remain, you can keep the temperature to a minimum.
The compact fridge size offers large storage space for different types of foodstuff. The mini size makes it the perfect choice in case you like stocking on beverages and snacks. However, it is not suited for the storage of frozen foods. You will not get the chance to make ice cubes with the unit.
The unit additionally features adjustable legs. In case you want to shift the unit to another space, no need to drag the entire mini-unit on the floor. A reversible fridge door comes with the fridges with the doors capable of opening to the right or left.
Features:
Brand Name | BLACK+DECKER |
Item Weight | 33.1 pounds |
Product Dimensions | 18.5 x 17.52 x 19.72 inches |
Capacity | 1.7 Cubic Feet |
Material | Steel |
Color | Black |
Most mini fridges capitalize on saving space only as a major standout feature. However, you get more with the Black Decker model. The affordable brand is energy-saving while consuming less space in your home or office. The energy consumption rate for the fridges ranges below 70 watts.
The mini-unit packs a compact design measuring between 17 to 19 inches. It is best suited for the storage of beverages such as soda, beer, or juice. The fridge operates quite impressively with an ultra-quiet feature. It produces less sound making it perfect in an office setting.
Some attractive features you get from the mini-unit includes the reversible fridge door that shifts from either left or right. The leveling legs make it possible to move around the fridge without any hassle. A functional thermostat controls the temperature to the lowest setting.
Unlike other models, the cheap mini fridge features a mini freezer. The freezer compartment measures between eight to two inches. It is perfect for the storage of ice packs. It is impossible to store any frozen foods into the freezer.
Features:
Brand Name | kealive |
Item Weight | 5.1 pounds |
Product Dimensions | 10.2 x 11.8 x 15.7 inches |
Capacity | 15 Liter |
Material | Plastic |
Color | Black |
In case you are planning to go camping in the countryside, it becomes a hassle getting your chilled beverages. Most of the cheap fridge options only cater to electric types. This is different when it comes to the Kealive model.
The AC/DC and small-sized fridge are perfect for a complete camping treat or outdoor activities. It comes packs with two adapters. It is inclusive of the standard wall plugs while the other option of the cigarette lighters. Apart from working in your home or office, you can plug it in your car when going out for a weekend treat.
Most people prefer to use the fridge in the storage of snacks and other skincare products. The small and compact size inside makes it lightweight to carry around. It does not occupy a lot of space and fits perfectly at the office corner or kitchen countertop.
What can it store? The available space makes it perfect for storing beverages, skin care products, and medication. Additionally, the fridge can be used in the storage of warm drinks, breast milk, and other foodstuffs packed for a camping trip.
Features:
Brand Name | hOmeLabs |
Item Weight | 45.2 pounds |
Product Dimensions | 18.5 x 17.7 x 33.9 inches |
Capacity | 3.3 Cubic Feet |
Material | Steel |
Color | Grey |
Saving space is a major objective when opting for a mini-fridge either in your office or dorm. You get to save space with the hOmeLabs model. It features a compact fridge size that can fit well at the corner of your dorm room.
The cheap mini fridge features a single door that measures up to 3.3 cubic meters. What makes the fridge a must-have is that it also fits perfectly in your RV when planning to go camping while occupying minimal space. The same applies in case you need a cheap fridge in your garage or office.
What about the functionality? It features a thermostat knob that controls the temperature for your snacks and foodstuff. It features three different temperature settings ranging from maximum, medium, and minimum.
The overall design features a sturdy and sleek black design. In case you like sharing memories around your dorm, you can stick pictures and notes on the fridge’s door. The sleek exterior complements the décor of either your dorm or office.
Features:
Brand Name | RCA |
Item Weight | 57 pounds |
Product Dimensions | 22.75 x 25.75 x 35.25 inches |
Capacity | 3.2 Cubic Feett |
Material | Steel |
Color | White |
One of the most outstanding fridge in our lineup is the double door cheap RCA brand model. The fridge has a sturdy black finish that completes the 3.2 cubic meter unit. RCA is a well-known brand with a high reputation for the production of high-quality and cheap products.
The top door opens the freezer compartment that features a lot of space to store your frozen foods. The lower door opens the fridge that features removable glass shelves. The lower part fits a removable vegetable bin.
The door sides feature a can dispenser that can hold up to two litres of beverage. The cooling function of the fridge comes from the adjustable thermostat. The compressor works seamlessly to give the top performance during hot weather.
It features a reversible door that can either shift to the left or right. This is perfect, especially when you are looking for space in your corners. The flush back style makes it perfect for saving more space in your home or office.
Features:
Brand Name | EUHOMY |
Item Weight | 53.1 pounds |
Product Dimensions | 19.4 x 19.9 x 33.5 inches |
Capacity | 3.2 Cubic Feet |
Material | Steel |
Color | Silver |
We cannot underestimate the power of a powerful freezer in a fridge. Despite the mini size, the Euhomy model packs a punch with the freezer compartment. The cheap brand offers a double door fridge fit for a home or office setting.
In case you are an avid ice cream lover, you will find a resort in the cheap fridge. It stores frozen foods and ice cream perfectly without any hassle. Additionally, the storage space inside the freezer is sizeable to accommodate several frozen foods.
You will appreciate the low sound production with the fridge when stored in your office. The compressors work efficiently with conserving energy in the process. The fridge meets your various freezing needs.
The cheap mini fridge comes with seven varied temperature settings. In case you have stored frozen food, you can set it to the maximum. However, in case the freezer is empty, you can reduce the temperature settings to low with the thermostat.
Features:
Brand Name | Galanz |
Item Weight | 58.4 pounds |
Product Dimensions | 19.17 x 23.31 x 35.16 inches |
Capacity | 3.1 Cubic Feet |
Material | Steel |
Color | Blue |
Having a small-sized fridge that complements your home or office décor can prove to be a daunting task. The cheap Galanz brand tries to add some spark to your living area with this model. You will notice the sleek design and stylish look posed by the fridge.
It features a retro design that looks unique in any setting. It comes in three varied colors from blue, red, and black. The double door fridge comes with removable glass shelves that separate your foodstuff. Therefore, you can store your bananas separate from your collard greens or broccoli.
The retro-style is topped off with the two handles on the freezer and fridge compartment. It resembles the design back in the ’50s. It uses the R600 compressor known for its low noise operation and energy saving nature.
Features:
Brand Name | FRIGIDAIRE |
Item Weight | 47.7 pounds |
Product Dimensions | 20 x 22 x 35 inches |
Capacity | 3.2 Cubic Feet |
Material | Steel |
Color | Coral |
Another fridge mini-unit that borrows the retro design is the Frigidaire brand. The model is perfect for an outdoor event when enjoying chilled drinks with friends and sharing stories. The 3.2 cubic foot unit packs a compact size.
It has a lightweight nature that does not consume a lot of space. You can fit it perfectly at the office or home corner. It can also fit perfectly at the back of your RV when planning for a camping event or outdoor treat.
The ice-free compartment makes it possible to fit an ice tray to make ice cubes. The fridge compartment makes it possible for you to customize the storage. You can remove the glass shelves to separate the foodstuff.
Features:
Brand Name | RCA |
Item Weight | 30.4 pounds |
Product Dimensions | 20 x 18 x 20 inches |
Capacity | 1.6 Cubic Foot |
Material | Steel |
Color | Black |
Another addition to the RCA brand of mini fridges is the RFR115-Black model. The fridges stand at 1.6 cubic feet. The overall construction of the fridge is from neoprene material that promotes beverage insulation.
The single compartment fridge comes with an adjustable thermostat that makes it possible to switch between different temperature settings. It has a compressor cooling that reduces the energy consumption of the fridge.
The holding capacity of the fridge can withstand up to 2 litres of liquid. It has a mini freezer compartment that features an ice cube chamber.
Features:
1.6 cubic feet;
Neoprene construction;
Adjustable thermostat.Brand Name | RCA |
Item Weight | 47 pounds |
Product Dimensions | 17.5 x 18.75 x 32.75 inches |
Capacity | 3.2 Cu Ft |
Material | Steel |
Color | Silver |
The 3.2 cubic foot fridge offers enough storage space without carrying too much weight. The fridge features sliding glass shelves with several racks on the door. This makes it more practical in the storage of beverages and other food items.
It comes with a reversible door. Hence, it can fit perfectly in the corner without having to worry about consuming much space. Another attractive feature is the compressor cooling that controls the energy consumption by the unit.
The fridge comes with several thermostat temperature settings that offer more versatility in terms of operation. The adjustable temperature settings make the fridge adaptable in different weather conditions.
Features:
Here is a roundup of the commonly asked questions with regards to the mini-units for either your dorm or office.
First, you should ensure you have enough space that fits the mini-unit. Avoid placing it close to direct sunlight or any heat source. This will end up affecting the overall performance of the fridge. You might end up spoiling all the perishables stored. Ensure you store the mini-unit close to a power source. Leave some space between the unit and the wall to promote aeration.
The unit is more than just storing foodstuff cold. Different angles are looked into when reviewing a fridge. The operations, energy consumption, noise production, and other added features that boost the performance of the fridge are thoroughly tested.
Most mini units have a temperature ranging between one and seven. One represents the coldest setting, while seven represents the warmest temperature setting. It is recommended to keep the temperature setting between three or four for optimum temperature.
Most dorms are often shared between one or two people. You need to capitalize on the available space. It is recommended to measure the available space first before selecting your preferred fridge. Compact fridges can take up to 30 inches, with the mini ones taking up to 15 inches. Getting the perfect mini-fridges means taking up the remaining space in your dorm.
Most mini fridges take up a lot of space with the freezer that you end up not using at all. A common trait for the less expensive models is the manual defrosting. This is annoying and has to deal with frost in your fridge after a few days. It is important to think about what you intend to do with the mini-unit. In case you only want to store snacks, you probably don’t need a mini fridge freezer.
Many specs go into making a preferred fridge unit. You should look into the power of the icebox. It offers a preferred option, especially when it comes to frozen foods. In case you have a standard cheap fridge in your home, you can opt for the models without an icebox.
The storage space in the mini-unit also means a lot. In case you plan on stocking loads of drinks and foodstuff, ensure that the shelves are spacious. Here are other special features you should look into when selecting a cheap fridge.
The first consideration in purchasing a fridge is space. Take prior measurements of the available space before purchasing the cheap fridge. Another consideration you should take into account is what you will store in the unit. Some mini units are good for the storage of drinks and snacks, while others have a large space to accommodate more items.
You will have to decide whether you want a mini freezer compartment in your fridge. Some cheap units come with a mini freezer compartment like ice trays. Other cheap units have a large freezer compartment suitable for the storage of drinks and other foods. The use of your fridge will dictate your use of the space.
A reversible door in a fridge is often overlooked by many homeowners. With one door, you can either switch the door to the left or right. You might downplay this simple action, but it might end up saving much space in your home.
In case you are in the market for a small-sized fridge, it means you are already capitalizing on space. It is of utmost importance to ensure your fridge fits perfectly under the counter or a preferred corner in the dorm. In case you do not know how much area the mini compact fridge will take up, take the initiative to measure the available area.
Different kinds of mini fridges come with different shapes and sizes. You can start with the mini 18 inched cube fridge while going to up above four cubic ones. Other variables that come into play with the aspects include width, depth, and height for the fridge.
Try any of these affordable mini-fridges that offer convenience while taking up less area. You get the save on space during a functional mini freezer compartment for frozen foods.
Image Credits - Amazon.com, Photo Stocks.
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Yvonne Ferguson is a culinary enthusiast and dedicated cooking tech reviewer. She’s constantly looking for the most up-to-date products and information to share with IceMakersHub readers. Yvonne enjoys making family-friendly recipes while sharing tips on choosing handy appliances for a healthy life.
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