Photo: amazon.com
A mini freezer offers an ideal solution for smaller spaces where a standard-size freezer won’t fit. It can be an optimal choice for offices, garages, entertainment rooms, dorm rooms, and other locations in which space is limited but you still require a freezer to keep foods cold. A mini freezer can also be a good solution for homes that need a bit more freezer space than a standard kitchen freezer offers.
Luckily, there is a wide selection of mini freezers on the market. While having numerous options from which to choose is ideal, it can also be more challenging to decide on the right product for your needs and available space. This guide is designed to explain several factors that are important to consider as you shop and then help you narrow down the search with a review of some of the best mini freezers for small spaces.
- BEST OVERALL: Midea WHS-109FW1 Upright Freezer, 3.0 Cubic Feet
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Insignia – 3.5 Cu. Ft. Chest Freezer – White
- BEST COUNTERTOP: Whynter CUF-110B Energy Star 1.1 Cubic Feet Upright
- BEST STAINLESS: Kismile 2.1 Cu.ft Compact Upright Freezers
- BEST PORTABLE: AstroAI Portable Freezer 12 Volt Car Refrigerator
- BEST WITH REFRIGERATOR: Frigidaire Mini Fridge with Built-In Freezer
- ALSO CONSIDER: Euhomy Mini Freezer Countertop, 1.1 Cubic Feet
Photo: amazon.com
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Mini Freezer
Deciding on the best mini freezer is very similar to deciding on the best freezer; you’ll want to consider the various features to select the product that will satisfy your needs. Keep reading to identify some key factors to consider—from type and size to storage capacity and energy efficiency to temperature control—when choosing a mini freezer.
Type
Before you go too far in your search for the best mini freezer, first determine which type of freezer is right for your needs and space. There are four main types: upright, chest, drawer, and portable.
- Upright freezers have a smaller footprint, making them ideal for more narrow spaces. Depending on the size, they feature a single shelf or multiple shelves and, occasionally, small drawers to keep foods organized and easier to find. Many are designed with an automatic defrost to prevent ice from building up, even if the door is opened and closed numerous times throughout the day. However, upright freezers won’t hold quite as much food as chest freezers due to the shelves (and possibly drawers) taking up space.
- Chest freezers have a hinged lid that lifts open. They typically feature a larger open area that can hold a significant amount of food and may also include a basket to contain smaller items or items for quick access. Compared to upright freezers, chest freezers are a better choice for long-term storage as opposed to day-to-day storage. Opening the lid too frequently can cause ice to accumulate. Chest freezers will keep foods colder for longer if the power goes out.
- Drawer freezers are typically part of a refrigerator/freezer unit. Compared to the design of a standard refrigerator/freezer, in which the freezer is next to or above the refrigerator, these models feature the freezer drawer at the base of the unit underneath the refrigerator. The drawer pulls open to reveal a spacious storage area. The space often features dividers and may even boast a multilayered design to make it easier to organize foods. Drawer freezers are most common on standard-size refrigerator/freezer models, so they may be a bit challenging to find as a mini freezer.
- Portable freezers are powered by batteries or a car’s 12-volt outlet. They offer an ideal solution to keep foods frozen when traveling or for transport. Many portable freezers also include an AC adapter for indoor use, making them even more versatile. However, portable freezers generally have a smaller capacity than even the smallest mini freezers, so they won’t be able to hold as much food.
Location
The location where you plan to place the mini freezer also plays a role in determining which model will ensure a proper fit. For example, a chest freezer may be a better solution for a garage than it would be for a bedroom or office.
If you’re purchasing a mini freezer for an office, media room, or another space where guests are likely to visit, consider the overall look and design of each model. Choosing a sleek stainless steel model or one that closely coordinates with the decor in the space may help the freezer look like it belongs in the room instead of being an eyesore.
Size and Storage Capacity
The size and overall storage capacity of the mini freezer are also important features to consider. The capacity of a freezer is measured in cubic feet. The number of cubic feet is determined by multiplying the length, width, and depth (recorded in feet) of the freezer. For example, a freezer that is 2 feet tall, 2 feet wide, and 2 feet deep has a capacity of 8 cubic feet (2 x 2 x 2).
In addition to the interior capacity of the mini freezer, take note of the exterior dimensions to determine if it will physically fit in the intended location. Measure the available space, keeping in mind that additional room that will be necessary to open the freezer door. For upright models, you’ll need space in front of the freezer, while chest freezers will require space above the unit.
Energy Efficiency
An energy-efficient freezer uses less energy than standard models. This can result in lower energy bills while also limiting your environmental footprint.
To further help with eliminating your carbon footprint it is wise to subscribe to green and renewable energy plans like those offered by Gexa Energy (has discounted rates on Home Energy Club). Energy Star Certified freezers are models that consume at least 10 percent less energy than the minimum federal standards for efficiency. An Energy Star-certified freezer can reduce energy bills by up to $195 over five years.
Temperature Control
Temperature controls on a freezer are essential. The FDA recommends setting a freezer’s temperature to 0 degrees Fahrenheit, as this temperature ensures that bacteria can’t grow and allows for safe food storage. However, you may want to be able to adjust the temperature of the mini freezer based on what you store in it, so finding a model with this feature is important.
In addition to the temperature setting options, which may range between -10 and 10 degrees Fahrenheit, consider options for how to control the temperature. Some freezers feature a dial or switch on the front or back of the unit to change the temperature without opening it and releasing cold air. Other freezers offer interior controls, which may be a better choice for homes with children who could unknowingly tinker with the controls and accidentally change the temperature.
Blackout Recovery
In the unfortunate event of a power outage, you want a freezer that will stay cold enough to prevent food from thawing and becoming unsafe to eat. This is especially true for areas that frequently lose power due to natural disasters or other reasons. As a general rule, chest freezers will keep food colder for longer if the power goes out. Regardless of the freezer type, leave the freezer door shut to contain cold air inside and keep food frozen for as long as possible.
Additional Features
If you’re interested in a few more bells and whistles on a mini freezer, consider each of these additional features that may be available depending on the model:
- Alarms: Freezers with alarms alert you if the door is left open or the interior temperature rises above a set level.
- Door locks: Door locks prevent children, or others in a house or workplace, from accessing the contents of a freezer. They can be an essential safety feature for chest freezers that children may be able to open.
- Adjustable or removable shelves: Adjustable or removable shelves allow you to customize the interior of a freezer to accommodate a variety of items.
- Bins or baskets: Some freezers feature bins or baskets to organize items or provide quicker access to certain items.
- Power lights: Power lights on the freezer’s exterior indicate if it is functioning properly. This prevents the need to open the door to check if the freezer is working, which can increase energy efficiency by not letting cold air escape. It also makes it easier to quickly confirm if the freezer is working by just looking at it.
Our Top Picks
The top picks for the best mini freezer take into consideration the above-highlighted features, in addition to factors like quality construction and durable materials. Keep reading to discover some of the best mini freezers on the market to fit into those small spaces.
Photo: amazon.com
This model also features an adjustable thermostat to set the temperature between -11.2 and 10.4 degrees Fahrenheit. It passes Energy Star-certified standards of low energy consumption and is also quiet, with just a 33.4-decibel sound level. The front legs are adjustable to ensure the freezer remains level in a variety of spaces. The freezer is 19.3 inches wide, 21.37 inches deep, and 33.9 inches tall, with a weight of 57 pounds. It is available with a black or white finish.
Photo: bestbuy.com
The power indicator light permits confirmation at a glance that the freezer is operating properly. Adjust the temperature between -7.6 and 10.4 degrees Fahrenheit via the mechanical temperature control on the exterior. This white mini freezer also offers adjustable legs for easy leveling and a 5.9-foot power cord for convenient placement. It measures 22 inches wide, 21.9 inches deep, and 30.8 inches tall and weighs 57 pounds
Photo: amazon.com
This is an Energy Star-certified mini freezer that consumes less power than a light bulb, so it won’t increase electricity bills. It is also quiet at less than a 42 decibel sound level. The freezer’s temperature is adjustable between -2 and 10 degrees Fahrenheit using the interior control knob. One removable shelf is integrated into the design to organize frozen items. This freezer is 18.5 inches wide, 17.7 inches deep, and 19.5 inches tall, with a weight of 35 pounds.
Photo: amazon.com
Adjustable legs allow this mini freezer to be leveled in the event it needs to sit on an uneven floor. The door is reversible to allow it to open in either direction and features a thickened sealing strip to increase efficiency and ensure foods stay properly frozen. The freezer’s noise level is lower than 40 decibels to reduce distractions. The dimensions are 17.5 inches wide, 21.5 inches deep, and 25 inches tall.
Photo: amazon.com
Set the temperature on a bright LED display between -4 and 68 degrees Fahrenheit to use it as either a freezer or a refrigerator. The unit boasts a powerful compressor that can lower the temperature to -4 degrees Fahrenheit in about an hour. A USB charging port is integrated into the design of this mini freezer, so it can double as a power bank to recharge cellphones or other mobile devices. It provides a 15-liter capacity, and the internal dimensions are 13.8 inches long, 9.6 inches wide, and 7.1 inches tall.
Photo: bestbuy.com
The door is reversible to open in either direction, and the front feet are adjustable to ensure the unit stays level on uneven surfaces. This refrigerator and freezer combo offers manual controls to set each temperature to the desired level. Set the freezer as low as -8 degrees Fahrenheit. This model is Energy Star certified to reduce electricity costs. It measures 18.9 inches wide, 20.5 inches deep, and 33.1 inches tall and weighs 49 pounds.
Photo: amazon.com
This model is compact enough to fit on a countertop and features a reversible door design with a built-in handle, enabling you to place it in the most logical direction for the space. The freezer also offers a stainless steel finish and adjustable feet to ensure it stays level. There is only one shelf in this freezer, but it is adjustable to allow for more flexibility in storing frozen foods. The freezer is 17.4 inches wide, 17.6 inches deep, and 19.5 inches tall, with a weight of 35 pounds.
FAQs About Mini Freezers
Do you have additional questions about mini freezers in the quest to decide on the ideal option? Read through some of the most frequently asked questions below.
Q. Can you use a mini freezer as a mini fridge?
Some mini freezers may offer temperature settings that allow them to also function as a fridge. Alternatively, you may also be able to convert a mini freezer into a mini fridge by replacing the freezer’s thermostat with a refrigerator thermostat.
Q. Are mini freezers quiet?
Some mini freezers are louder than others. Check the manufacturer’s product description to determine the decibel rating for each model. Under 40 decibels is considered quiet for a freezer, but some particularly quiet models are as low as 30 decibels. In general, energy-efficient models make less noise since the compressor isn’t working as hard.
Q. What size mini freezer should I get?
Your specific needs and available space help to determine the optimal freezer size. Consider where you’ll be placing the freezer and the amount of food you plan to store in it. Also, decide if it will be your only freezer or will simply offer supplemental storage space for another freezer in the home.
Q. How long do mini freezers last?
The average lifespan of a mini freezer is around 11 years. Keeping less than a .25 inch of frost in a freezer at all times can help extend its lifespan.
