Finding the best compact refrigerators for your space, whether it’s a dorm room, office, or a home bar, can be a fun process. Compact refrigerators come in all kinds of styles and sizes these days. We know you want to explore all the best compact refrigerators before making a decision.

At BBQGrills.com we specialize in grills and grilling accessories, but we also recognize the need for the best compact refrigerators to keep your grilling essentials fresh and icy cold while you enjoy the backyard. So while you’re thinking about those grilling recipes, keep those compact refrigerator options in mind, too.

Considerations When Choosing the Best Compact Refrigerators

There are quite a few compact refrigerators available on the market today. The real key is choosing a refrigerator that best fits your needs and the space that you have available.

Size and Capacity

Compact refrigerators are typically classified by their storage capacity measured in cubic feet (cu. ft). Capacity usually ranges from 1.7 cubic feet for very small dorm room refrigerators all the way up to about 7 cubic feet for larger freestanding models. First, consider how much space you actually need. A small 1.1 cubic foot mini fridge might be more than enough for a dorm room, whereas an office space might be better suited for a larger model such as the Blaze 5.5 cu.ft refrigerator.

Door Hinge and Door Storage

Not all spaces are created equally, especially when trying to figure out where the best compact refrigerators are going to fit. Thankfully, quite a few compact refrigerators have reversible doors, meaning the door can be adjusted to open from the left or right side. Some compact refrigerators also have interior door storage. Door storage is typically used for tall beverage bottles but it’s not always included in compact refrigerator models.

Freezer Compartment

A top freezer compartment in compact refrigerators can be very convenient. Most freezers have enough room for a few ice trays or small freezer packs. A larger capacity refrigerator often means a slightly larger freezer compartment. For example, GE makes a 3.1 cu.ft refrigerator with a roomy freezer section that can be found at Lowe’s. You may find, though, that having a separate freezer allows you to gain more overall storage space inside the main compartment.

Temperature Controls

Most modern compact refrigerators offer either mechanical or digital temperature controls. Digital temperature control makes it simple to see and adjust your refrigerator’s internal temperature, while mechanical controls usually consist of a simple dial. Either control can get the job done but some find digital temperature controls a bit easier and more precise.

Energy Efficiency (Energy Star)

Always consider the Energy Star rating on your refrigerator if saving money is on your mind. Energy Star rated refrigerators are designed to conserve electricity. Energy efficient appliances, while possibly a slightly more expensive initial investment, will reduce your energy consumption over the life of the appliance. Those small energy savings really add up, too. And every penny counts.

Finishes and Style

These days, many of the best compact refrigerators have finishes that go beyond just basic black, white or stainless steel. Stainless steel is generally the most popular, but the style of refrigerator should always match its setting. Many compact refrigerators now come in fun retro colors and modern designs with features like a glass door. Keep the existing decor in mind before making your decision. You will thank me later.

The Best Compact Refrigerator Picks to Help Make your Decision

Deciding which are the best compact refrigerators for your needs can feel overwhelming with all of the choices out there. Let me try to help with a list of different mini fridge options available.

Blaze 24-Inch 5.5 Cu. Ft. Outdoor Rated Compact Refrigerator

You want a compact refrigerator for your outdoor kitchen. But you also want to make sure it can handle the weather. The Blaze 24-Inch 5.5 Cu. Ft. Outdoor Rated Compact Refrigerator can handle it. This refrigerator is made with stainless steel. It also has a commercial grade compressor. 

This refrigerator has plenty of space for your food and drinks. It has adjustable shelves so you can fit different size items. It also has a door lock to keep your food safe. This refrigerator is also very stylish. It has a sleek black finish that will look great in any outdoor kitchen.

Blaze Grills 20-Inch 4.5 Cu. Ft. Capacity Stainless Steel Compact Refrigerator with Locking Door & Recessed Handle

You might be thinking, “A 20-inch refrigerator? What will that do for me?” This Blaze refrigerator is small but mighty. It’s perfect if you have limited space. But don’t let the size fool you. It has a spacious interior. You can fit a lot in this compact refrigerator.  

This refrigerator is great for outdoor use. It has a stainless steel finish. So it can withstand the elements. Plus, the locking door will keep your food and drinks safe. No one wants a raccoon running off with their lunch! The recessed handle gives it a sleek look.

Bull BBQ 24-Inch 5.6 Cu. Ft. Capacity Stainless Steel Outdoor Rated Compact Refrigerator with Locking Door

You want to keep your drinks cold. But you might also want to keep them safe. This Bull BBQ compact refrigerator has a locking door. This is great if you want to control who gets into the drinks or if you have young children. This refrigerator has a lot of space at 5.6 cubic feet. 

This refrigerator is made of stainless steel, so you know it’s built tough. It can withstand the elements. Plus, it looks really nice. You can put this refrigerator outside without worry.  It will look great on your patio.

Coyote 24-Inch 5.5 Cu. Ft. Right Hinge Outdoor Rated Compact Refrigerator

You want a great compact refrigerator for your outdoor kitchen. But you also need something reliable. This Coyote compact refrigerator is a great choice because it has a lot of great features. This refrigerator is made with stainless steel, so it’s durable and can withstand the elements. It has a capacity of 5.5 cubic feet, which is a lot of space. You can fit all your favorite drinks and snacks inside. This refrigerator is also outdoor-rated, so you know it can handle the heat. 

One thing that makes this refrigerator special is its right-hinge door. Most compact refrigerators have a left-hinge door. This can be a problem if you have a small outdoor kitchen. You want to make sure that the door swings open the right way. The last thing you want is for your refrigerator door to hit your grill. This refrigerator also has an adjustable thermostat. This lets you get the temperature just right for your food and drinks. Plus, the sleek stainless steel design looks great in any outdoor kitchen.

Hestan 24-Inch 5.2 Cu. Ft. Capacity Left-Hinged Stainless Steel Outdoor Rated Compact Refrigerator with Solid Locking Door

You might need extra cold storage, but you don’t want just any compact refrigerator. Hestan outdoor compact refrigerators are made with high-quality materials and have features you won’t find in other brands. This refrigerator is made from stainless steel and has a left-hinged door. This refrigerator would look great next to your grill!  It has a solid locking door. So you can make sure that your food and drinks are safe and secure.  This compact refrigerator has a temperature range of 33 degrees Fahrenheit to 50 degrees Fahrenheit. That makes it perfect for storing all of your favorite foods and beverages.

Zephyr Presrv 24-Inch 5.1 Cu. Ft. Outdoor Rated Dual Drawer Compact Stainless Steel Refrigerator

But what if you want drawers instead of a swing-out door? The Zephyr Presrv might be what you are looking for. This compact refrigerator has two drawers. This makes it easy to organize all of your grilling essentials. It has a capacity of 5.1 cubic feet. That’s a good amount of space for drinks, condiments, and more. Plus, because it has a stainless steel design, this refrigerator is durable. It can handle the demands of outdoor use.

FAQs about Best Compact Refrigerators

Who makes the best compact refrigerator?

Picking out the “best” of anything is often highly subjective. There are many reputable brands to consider that may not be mentioned here, too, such as Frigidaire, Whirlpool, Haier, and Kenmore. The best brand for you depends on personal preference, but also what is going to fit into your available space, your budget and its purpose. There’s a compact refrigerator to fit nearly every situation.

What are the most reliable refrigerator brands?

Reliability really comes down to long-term consumer reviews, consistency in temperature control and longevity of parts. There is no single manufacturer of any appliance that is perfect 100% of the time. It can also often depend on the particular model of refrigerator, with higher end brands and models often providing better features, durability and dependability. All that being said, for compact refrigerators brands like GE, Midea and Danby have received top marks for reliability. GE double door mini fridge has particularly been highlighted as a great pick for both reliability and style.

What size fridge is best for a small family?

If you are searching for the best compact refrigerators to serve as a main source of refrigeration for your family, even a small family, you likely need more than just a mini fridge. Compact refrigerators are best suited for supplementary needs such as storing drinks, snacks, quick meals or as a convenient second refrigerator to augment your main, standard size refrigerator. Larger models with capacities up to 4.3 cu. ft are great choices though when trying to store drinks, frozen foods or extra ingredients that you use frequently.

What are the disadvantages of mini refrigerators?

The main disadvantage to a mini refrigerator, when compared to a full-size, standard model is that you are restricted in the size and amount of things that you can store. While this sounds fairly obvious, mini fridges should really only be thought of as a supplement, and not as the only refrigeration in your house or space. Although compact refrigerators are meant for, well, compact spaces, take time to properly measure where you plan to install your unit and double-check that you have the required outlet spacing before buying.

Conclusion

Finding the best compact refrigerators for your needs and budget does not have to be hard or frustrating. Keep these tips in mind, consider where and why you want that compact fridge and you will enjoy having easy access to fresh food and cool drinks all the time.