Best Mini Fridge – Complete Reviews and Comparisons
We have all been there ‚ seconds to go in our show or game and our mouths are parched. We have to decide between getting up to grab something to drink and potentially missing an essential part of our night’s entertainment. What do you do? If you had a mini fridge handy, you could get your refreshments and not have to worry about missing a thing.
Mini fridges may make you feel a bit lazy, but they are well worth it if you don’t miss the play that sends your team to the big game, or lose track of what is going on with the real housewives of whatever city you are obsessed with.
There are so many different options, though, that taking time to decide which one will fit in your family room may seem like more work than you are willing to do. That is why we have taken the time to pull together a list of the best mini fridges of 2019 as well as build a buyer’s guide to help you choose between them. So, sit back and relax and let us do all the heavy lifting.
Comparison Chart
Best PRODUCTNICHE Reviews
Danby DAR033A6BSLDB Compact Refrigerator
Our first entry comes to us from a brand that makes its mark on our list twice, Danby. This stainless steel refrigerator offers a space-saving contemporary look to any room in your home or office while giving you an energy-efficient powerhouse of refrigeration.
Product Highlights
The features that are built into the design of any product make it what it is, and with this high-quality fridge, it is no different. The DAR033A6BSLDB is fitted with the following features that were included to ensure that Danby lived up to their motto of innovation and performance.
- Large capacity (3.3 cu.ft.)
- Energy-star certified
- Built-in interior LED light
- Multiple glass shelves included
- Worktop is crafted with scratch-resistant materials
- Reversible door
- Fitted with auto-defrost
- Flat-back design
What's to like about the Danby DAR033A6BSLDB Compact Refrigerator
Though the performance of the unit is what is most important, a nice-looking design doesn’t hurt. With this unit from Danby, you will get an aesthetically pleasing look and the features to elevate the performance of this unit too. With little to no noise and a well-organized interior space, this mini fridge is an excellent option for any room in your house or office.
It is built to allow for optimal organization with a can dispenser. This is all topped off with a well-lit interior that is a nice touch considering there are many models that lack this feature altogether. This Danby fridge is a steal for the price.
What's not to like about the Danby DAR033A6BSLDB Compact Refrigerator
Though this unit is a great selection, there are a few issues that have been talked about in reviews from previous buyers.
The first is the weak door magnet which can lead to problems with temperature consistency as without a strong seal, your unit will start working harder to reach the set temperature, or cold air will seep out and lead to lukewarm beverages and perishables rotting quicker. This may be why there are a lot of reviews that complain about the temps not being cold enough.
Design-wise there are some flaws with the legs of the unit — both the fact that they cannot be adjusted, and some have even come with uneven legs.
Though there may be a few design flaws, in the end, the advantages you get from choosing this mini fridge will make your life a little easier and your beverages a little cooler.
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CONS
MIDEA WHS-65LSS1
Our next entry comes from a smaller company, MIDEA. The 1.6 cubic feet stainless steel mini fridge is a sleek design with just the right amount of space for that game-day fridge.
Product Highlights
This mini fridge certainly lives up to the tagline ‘make yourself at home’ with its spacious yet compact design. To ensure that this mini fridge is perfect for your needs, it is built with the following features:
- Built-in mechanical temp adjustment system
- Spacious interior storage areas
- Fitted with adjustable legs
- Reversible door
- 1-year warranty
What's to like about the MIDEA WHS-65LSS1
This model is small and energy-efficient, which doesn’t always go hand in hand. It is even designed with an extra compartment that can be used to chill drinks apart from the main products housed within the unit. It uses eco-friendly tech, and because of this, the noise levels of this unit are minimal.
It is lightweight and compact, which makes it a great model for portability, and with the adjustable legs, you can ensure that it always remains flat no matter in what environment you place it in. All of that culminates in an easy-to-maintain and highly efficient mini fridge that will make anyone’s day.
What's not to like about the MIDEA WHS-65LSS1
The addition of the chilling compartment is a nice touch, but many feel it is just a bit too small for any significant use. There are also a few issues reported with the durability of the overall unit being less than fantastic. Other than that, common complaints are the interior space design and the lack of ability to hold frozen goods.
Most of the issues discussed above are not global problems, and with those taken off of the list, you find yourself with a small but mighty option for your beverage needs. That is why when we were crafting a list of the best mini fridges on the market, it was an easy choice to make this one of them.
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Cooluli Infinity 10-Liter Compact Cooler
This option is the epitome of a mini fridge: perfect for carrying from tailgate to tailgate this 10-liter option from Cooluli also doubles as a food and beverage warmer as well as a refrigeration unit.
Product Highlights
Designed with a thermoelectric system, this mini fridge is a mighty multitasker that comes with a lot of great features that elevate its overall performance quality. The features that the team at Cooluli crafted the unit with that makes it such a great option are:
- Designed with a thermoelectric system that warms and cools
- Lightweight and compact for better portability
- Built-in switch control for cooling/warming
- Aesthetically pleasing design
- Energy-efficient semiconductor operation
- Reduced noise levels eco-friendly
What's to like about the Cooluli Infinity 10-Liter Compact Cooler
If you are looking for a quick, simple refrigeration unit that will allow you to easily move from spot to spot or to any party or event, this small and lightweight option is a perfect choice for you.
It uses a thermoelectric system to allow for multiple temps which means that even in the cold of winter, you will be able to keep warm with hot cocoa or coffee and then turn around in the summer months and enjoy a nice cold beer at the barbecue. All of that wrapped up in an eco-friendly energy effect package to boot.
What's not to like about the Cooluli Infinity 10-Liter Compact Cooler
Though this unit does get things cold, it does not get them as cold as they could be. So, if you are looking for super cold, almost frozen, this may not be the unit you want to go with. There are also issues reported with the seal of the door not being strong enough to remain sealed. Plus, for the size of this appliance and the features, you get some feel that the price is a little steep.
This unit is an excellent option for those that do a lot of tailgating or are looking for a way to keep a few drinks close at hand without adding a bulky appliance to their living room. So, if you can overlook the few issues that this model seems to have you may find that the Cooluli 10L mini fridge is the right one for you.
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Gourmia GMF600 Mini Fridge
Our next entry is another thermoelectric mini fridge that is perfect for individual beverage needs. This unit is the smallest one on our list with a 6L capacity which equates out to a six-pack, and that is just enough for a game day event.
Product Highlights
If you want to show up for your squad then making sure you bring a six-pack to any event is an excellent way to do that. But even better than just a six-pack, why not bring a cold six-pack and the tool that allows them to stay cool while you are there. That is what this unit offers — amazing features on any given day. The features that make up this fantastic unit include the following:
- Lightweight, compact design for better portability
- Built-in easy-to-carry handle
- Designed with a self-locking latch
- Multiple temp modes
- Designed with enhanced insulation
- Eco-friendly thermoelectric design
- Both AC & DC cords included
What's to like about the ProductName
There are a lot of things to rave about when it comes to this small fridge from Gourmia. It uses a thermoelectric system which means it is free of CFC’s, making it not only energy-efficient but environment-friendly as well. Its latch is super strong, which will help maintain temps within the unit better whether you are trying to keep something cold or warm.
As we talked about in our entry, due to the system used in its construction, this model comes with two settings and is highly efficient no matter which one you are using.
What's not to like about the ProductName
One of the most significant issues raised by many recent buyers is a consistent problem with overheating.
When plugged in and in use for extended periods, the unit tends to retain heat and then begins to malfunction due to this overheating problem. It is also very small and will not work well for parties with an extensive guest list.
The biggest issue — the overheating problem — can be solved by simply unplugging the unit every couple of days. Once you take that away from the negative column, you end up with a unit that is an excellent addition to any home, and that has little to complain about.
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CONS
Danby DAR017A2BDD Compact Refrigerator
Our next entry is another unit from Danby, and this mini fridge brings with it all the attention to detail and efficiency as the other model in a smaller package.
Product Highlights
This smaller version of our previous model has just as many features as its bigger brother only with a smaller, more energy-efficient design. The features that combine to make this a great choice include the following:
- Interior capacity of 1.7 cu. ft.
- Energy Star certified
- Multiple removable shelves included
- Built-in large bottle storage
- Eco-friendly
- Built with a can dispenser
- Worktop is made with scratch-resistant material
What's to like about the ProductName
Efficiency is the word that comes to mind when you look at this model from Danby — not only in its eco-friendly energy-efficient system, but in its allocation of space and its environmental impact as well. Noiseless, this small footprint model will not take away from the mood of the atmosphere with unwanted noises like other models. It also offers super consistent temperature controls that will keep everything just the right temperature for whatever the event.
What's not to like about the ProductName
This model may have tons of great features, but there are a few issues that need to be addressed before you make your final decision. The first issue that some find fault with it the cooling capacity of the unit. It only cools down to 45° Fahrenheit, and that may not be cool enough for some.
With this limitation not having a temperature control dial may seem like a problem, but the lack of ability to control your temps means you are stuck with the preset modes, and once again that may not work for some. The last issue can be solved with smart placement but still may cause some to pause before buying is the absence of an interior light.
Our last entry brings with it a few issues that are not universal nor insurmountable that many may take as a final deterrent. However, if you pull back and look at the whole picture those issues seem to melt away with the vast amount of efficiency and quality you can get from adding this mini fridge to any room in your house or office. Because of this, it was a no-brainer to make this option from Danby one of our 2019 best of options when looking for a mini fridge.
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BUYER'S GUIDE
With these options on the table for you now all you need to do is have a clear idea on what needs to be looked at to decide which option gives you the best return on your investment. That is why we compiled this buyer’s guide.
There are always factors that you should pay close attention to when making a big appliance purchase. With a mini fridge, the factors we have broken down below are the ones we feel may be the best to use as a measuring stick. If you use this guide, we are sure that you will feel better equipped to make the right decision for you and your needs.
Insulation
You want a refrigerator with good insulation as this will mean a more energy-efficient product. Though mini fridges tend to have less insulation than their big brothers, you will still want to pay close attention to the insulation as you shop around.
By making sure you find the mini fridge with the best insulation, you will be ensuring there is no heat leakage into the main compartments that could cause unwanted fluctuations in the interior temp. This will cause your mini fridge to run more and shorten the lifespan.
Features
Paying attention to the features you get for the price you pay can lead to you choose not only a great feature-rich fridge but one that is well worth the investment. There are some cool features that you can look for that will increase the value of your final choice. Here are a few key features that may make a little difference:
Reversible Door
By looking for this feature, you will be setting yourself up for success no matter where you end up placing your mini fridge. Many units come with hinges that can be put on either way, opening right or left, and this opens a lot of options. This versatility will allow you to place the fridge in just the right spot and not have to worry if it is going to be able to be opened.
This is also a handy feature for those left-handed individuals that are tired of everything being built for their right-handed counterparts.
Shelves
Removable and adjustable shelves are a nice feature that, when present, will allow for better customization. You will be able to configure the shelves inside to fit your food and beverage needs. There will even be units that offer a crisper drawer for your fruits and veggies.
If you are someone who eats a more plant-based diet, this is probably a nice feature to have so that your fruits and vegetables stay fresh and crisp.
Another feature that you may want to look for that falls under the shelving department are glass shelves. Getting a mini fridge with this type of shelve will make clean up easier.
Defrost
Many models offer an auto-defrost setting which will make the upkeep of your unit even easier than it already is. No more unplugging and waiting 24 hours to get your fridge back. Now the one thing about this feature is that it does take more energy to run so if you are concerned with energy efficiency, then you may want to go with the tried and true manual defrosting idea.
Can Dispenser
Having a built-in can dispenser in your door will save a lot of shelf space, and many of these can fit an entire 12 pack in them at a time which makes the rest of the room tidy too. No more half-empty cases laying around to trip on.
Other features that could be cool (pun intended):
- Chilling compartment
- Heating function
- Temp control
- No scratch work surface
- Removable drain tray
- Safety latch
- Carrying handle
Any or all of these could make for the perfect mini fridge for you.
Noise Level
When you are looking for a mini fridge, you will undoubtedly be looking to place it in a room where sound matters. Places like an office where you will be taking conference calls or a dorm room where you will be getting some rest are all rooms where noise levels definitely matter.
There are many different types of mini fridge systems, and each has its own noise level. Paying attention to the system that your fridge uses can help you determine if the noise levels that may issue from them is acceptable or not. Here are the three systems:
Absorption
This fridge is the quietest running option and therefore is the one suggested for small areas, especially rooms where you sleep like hotels or dorms. This unit uses a heating element to help move the coolant through the system, which aids in the reduced noise levels.
Thermoelectric
This unit moves the coolant through the fridge using a heating element which means that most of these types allow for multiple modes (heating and cooling). You may experience bubbling noises as well as some noise from the fan motion. Though these systems cool quickly and are great for transportation, they are not noiseless and therefore if you are a light sleeper you may want to position this unit far away.
Compressor
This is the more traditional system used in refrigerators. There is often a low hum and noise from the fan. Because this system uses liquid that is turned into vapor and pushed through coils while a fan blows air through the same coils, you will get these noises with every unit.
Size
When you are considering the size, you have to think about it in two ways. The first is in dimensions of the actual unit. You will want to measure the space you have and make sure you get the right size unit. The last thing you want to do is find the perfect fridge only to find out that it just won’t fit in the space provided for it. Then you also need to think about the internal size of the fridge. You will want to make sure that the internal storage is enough to suit your needs.
Warranty
You always want to check the warranty for each unit. Having a mini fridge that is covered for 1 to 2 years if anything goes wrong will save money in the long run as well as preserve your peace of mind. Knowing what the warranty covers and for how long will allow you to be more vigilant with the maintenance and upkeep, and save a few bucks as well.
With this guide, we hope that you are now better armed with the knowledge you need to make your decision easily and without fear of regret.
FINAL VERDICT
Having cold beverages and snacks with in your reach, without having to get up and miss those crucial moments, can be a nice touch to any family or game room. This means being able to find the right mini fridge, and with the knowledge that we have laid out above, we hope that you feel better equipped to do just that.
By using our guide in combination with the choices we have compiled (or ones you find on your own) you will be able to move through the decision making process with ease and in the blink of an eye be ready to pop an ice-cold beverage without leaving the comfort of your favorite seat making sure to not miss a thing or lose your place. Some may find that that is the best reason because the perfect seat can enhance any event, after all.
So grab yourself a cold one, kick back, and relax, enjoying your favorite shows or sports games in comfort without having to miss a moment of the action thanks to your new mini fridge keeping everything cold within arm's reach of your sofa.