Mini-refrigerators: which one is better to choose + review of the best models and brands

A modern mini refrigerator is a portable device that fully performs all the functions of a cooling unit.It is used to reproduce design ideas when arranging a kitchen, as a bar for hotel rooms, or for storing food while traveling.

The last option belongs to the portable category and can be represented as either a portable version or a thermoelectric device for a car. In this publication, we will look at the types of miniature refrigerators and talk about the criteria that it is advisable to take into account when choosing a suitable option.

We will also provide a brief overview of the best portable refrigerators and mini-models for permanent indoor installation.

Types of mini refrigerators

Refrigerators have long become an integral part of everyday life. Most prefer dimensional models with spacious chambers and freezers.

However, such a spacious unit is not at all suitable for hotels, cottages and in a car.In this case, a rational solution would be to purchase a small but quite convenient refrigerator.

Portable devices for country holidays

Depending on the design type of the device, operating principle and dimensions, there are several main categories of portable refrigerators: portable, volume up to 11 l, automotive - up to 110 l and stationary – up to 122 l.

Of course, the most compact representative of the species is the isothermal cooler bag. Visually, this is a small suitcase with different configurations and colors.

An insulated cooler bag is essentially a regular thermos, but larger. A powerful thermal insulation layer maintains the required temperature

The package may include a variety of accessories, for example, cutlery for a comfortable picnic.

Such a device can maintain the required temperature for a long time to store food while traveling.

To ensure the proper level of storage of perishable foods and drinks, the bag must be kept in a closed position and opened only when necessary, since cooled air quickly leaves the chamber

In addition to insulation, the use of one or more refrigeration elements is mandatory. The batteries are made of durable plastic, filled with liquid, which must first be frozen.

The advantages of such thermal containers are their compact size, simplest design and affordable price. The disadvantage is obvious - over time, the cooling elements defrost, so such refrigerators are not designed for long-term storage, maximum for a day.

The lightweight portable refrigerator is made of heat-resistant plastic. Its parameters are 20*10*8 cm, and the weight reaches only 400 g. This is a faithful assistant for those who spend a lot of time at the computer

The smallest refrigerator in the world is designed for only two cans of drink - its volume is 0.4 liters. Like many other portable devices, it can be cooled or warmed up.

To start the cooler, you will need to connect it via a standard USB connector to a desktop computer or laptop. Since the dimensions of such a chamber are tiny, five minutes of operating mode are sufficient to cool the placed liquid by 16 °C.

A small non-compressor refrigerator with dimensions of 28*19*31 cm. Ideal for cooling drinks. Such a compact unit fits easily into a car and can be powered by a cigarette lighter.

For some users, designing a comfort zone is impossible without a compact refrigerator that can easily be placed even on a coffee table. At the same time, designers are not limited to the standard appearance.

Various decorative solutions, for example, a mini-model in the shape of a telephone booth, allow you to add some zest to the retro interior.

The capacity of such units varies from 5 to 11 liters. However, these options are designed to work in only one of the modes: refrigeration or freezing.

Stationary miniature refrigerators are equipped with compressors, which significantly increase the weight of the equipment. They are usually used as minibars or refrigeration units in long-distance buses.

Devices for use in the car

Products specifically designed for use in the car are ideal for long trips.The choice of their volume is based on the number of people for whom the products will be placed.

For a company of four passengers, a 30-40 liter chamber will be enough. For short trips, you can stop at the smallest option of 7-10 liters.

Depending on the type of power supply, car refrigerators can operate through the following sources:

• car electrical system;
• combined type of nutrition;
• liquefied gas.

Models can work in both passenger cars and trucks. If a unit is selected for a passenger car, its voltage should be 12 V, and for a truck twice as much - 24 V.

A cooling device with combined power supply can operate not only from the cigarette lighter connector, but also from the home network. Devices operating on liquefied gas, with the help of one cylinder, are capable of providing the required temperature conditions for at least 7 days of continuous operation.

Buying a car refrigerator will be an excellent addition when traveling, especially during hot periods when food spoils quickly. This unit is suitable for trips to the country or to nature

Classification by principle of action

Miniature refrigerators come in several types.

Based on the type of structural device, there are four main categories of units:

• isothermal;
• compressor;
• thermoelectric;
• absorption.

Isothermal This option is an absolutely silent analogue of a household appliance. It can be made in the form of thermal boxes, where the electrical source is a cigarette lighter or a regular socket, and there are models that do not require connection at all.

An isothermal car refrigerator is a good option, suitable for drivers who spend most of their time on the road.Such a device can work both to maintain cold and heat.

Its operating principle is quite simple: a built-in plastic cold accumulator maintains the desired temperature for a certain period of time.

Depending on the environmental conditions and the chamber load, the average exposure time for the cooling mode is up to 10 hours, and the heat mode is up to 8 hours.

The refrigerant, made in the form of a briquette, filled with a special heat-capacity composition, needs to be constantly recharged. To do this, place it in the freezer until completely frozen.

Compressor refrigeration equipment is quite noisy even in a miniature version, although the sound interference is no stronger than that of traditionally sized units

Compressor the view is noisier, which does not bother motorists, because this drawback is not noticeable while the vehicle is moving.

Freon mobile refrigerators are economical in power consumption. The unit is equipped with a special safety device that notifies when the batteries are low.

Based on the series of the device, cooling is carried out from -15 to -22 °C, so the container is quite suitable for freezing food.

The chamber volume in the model range of freon devices is 11-122 liters, which is quite enough for any consumer needs

Thermoelectric The type can operate in two modes: cooling and heating. They have increased resistance to mechanical damage and are insensitive to tilts and vibrations. The best representatives of this species are capable of cooling to 0 °C, reducing the temperature by almost 30 °C from external indicators.

These devices are multifunctional and multiseasonal. Additionally, they have a heating function up to +65 °C.

You can control all processes, make settings and control thanks to the display. The package includes a cable for sockets designed for 220 V. The chamber's capacity is 7-35 liters.

Absorption compact refrigerators are excellent for installation in a country house, a yacht, on the terrace of a country house, or a sports ground. They do not require a mandatory connection to a traditional electrical network

Absorption (gas) thermoboxes are universal products that operate from a 12 V, 220 V network or a gas cylinder. Due to this, they are quite suitable for long car trips. When operating exclusively on a gas cylinder with a volume of 6 liters (more is available), the charge is enough for seven days of continuous operation.

Such models are capable of cooling by 20-33 °C from the ambient temperature. The refrigerant here is water-ammonia concentrate. The heater can be not only gas, but also the electrical network.

Liquefied gas is used only to heat the ammonia circulating inside the unit. At the same time, the operation of the gas appliance is absolutely silent.

Absorption models are used both in cars and in everyday life. Due to the good volume of the chamber, economical gas consumption and silent operation, floor-standing samples are used in dachas instead of standard bulky devices. They are especially relevant in areas where there are constant power outages.

What to consider when choosing a mini cooler?

Before choosing a specific model of a small refrigerator, you should carefully read the technical characteristics declared by the manufacturer. We will give a few recommendations in this regard and consider all the advantages and disadvantages of the most popular models.

Criterion #1 - dimensions and type of construction

For arranging a kitchen with a small cubic capacity, where every free centimeter is valuable, a compact refrigerator with a height of up to 130 cm is an ergonomic solution. Conventionally, such devices are divided into minibars used for cooling drinks and full-fledged refrigerators with or without a freezer, but in a compact design .

The first minibars were released by the German brand Siegas back in the sixties. Since then, this invention has been actively used in the hotel business when arranging rooms.

Refrigeration equipment is presented as free-standing or built-in options. In the second case, the equipment is placed in the prepared niche in whole or in part, depending on the design of the interior designer. Models in the form of drawers or independent boxes are also popular.

Manufacturers of small refrigeration equipment produce single- and double-chamber systems with and without a compressor. Despite the small dimensions, some designs include retractable shelves for drinks.

For individual units, the installation location is not limited to the space under the kitchen countertop; they are placed in any niche, and it is not necessary to stick to the catering unit. Most products with one chamber are additionally equipped with a freezer. There are models with a lower and upper freezer compartment. However, the first option is more spacious.

There are also models without freezer, accordingly, there is much more usable space in them. However, separate freezers are purchased for domestic use.

Criterion #2 - type of defrosting system

Like standard modifications, small-sized ones work with one of the defrosting systems: weeping wall or No Frost.

The principle of operation of technology with a crying wall looks like this: drops of condensate formed on the back wall of the chamber flow into a special compartment, where they evaporate.

The “crying wall” defrosting system is implemented in mini refrigerators from domestic companies Saratov, Atlant and Biryusa. Affordable cost and high quality characteristics are the main priorities of such devices.

Such refrigerators are subject to defrosting once a year. This is a budget option used in inexpensive models.

Technology No Frost based on the circulation of cooled air. Condensed moisture enters a special compartment where it evaporates. As a result, there is no need for defrosting.

The No Frost system allows you to evenly distribute cold air between placed products, which contributes to their longer storage

Criterion #3 - materials for making the case

Recently, impact-resistant plastic has been used as the main material for the manufacture of housings. Due to this, there is a significant reduction in metal consumption during the production process, which reduces the overall weight of the technical device.

A refrigerator, the body of which is made exclusively of plastic, has the smallest weight, which is important if the equipment is subject to constant movement

Despite the positive characteristics of this composition, the most reliable is still the combined option - plastic and metal.

Criterion #4 - energy class and management

Mini refrigeration equipment is not complicated by unnecessary parts, so you should not count on anything more than an electromechanical type of adjustment of operating parameters.However, this solution is quite successfully implemented - for the most demanding customers they produce models with multi-stage temperature settings.

As for energy consumption, refrigerators with small dimensions in operating mode consume electricity quite small, but for maximum savings they choose energy consumption class A. However, class B will also not significantly affect the amount of the monthly receipt.

It is worth paying attention to class C. Such units are also present on the household appliances market and they are of the non-compressor type. Despite the inefficient energy consumption, such devices do not vibrate and are absolutely silent.

Criteria #5 - Compressor and Refrigerant Type

Ergonomic models are equipped only with piston compressors. This motor unit perfectly demonstrated its positive qualities. But the refrigerant is available in several options. It is useful to opt for an isobutane motor. This technique is less noisy and works efficiently.

Algorithm of processes when connecting the refrigerator to the electrical network: the compressor starting relay leads to the reciprocating movement of the pistons located on the crankshaft. As a result, freon is pumped out from the evaporator and coolant is pumped into the condensing device

It is also worth noting that piston devices cannot be disassembled at home, as this leads to depressurization. To repair such a motor, special equipment will be required.

Criterion #6 - climate category

Due to their compact dimensions, small refrigeration units are installed in the most unusual places: balcony, corridor, garage, etc.

If such areas are expected, then it is better to arm yourself with knowledge about the appropriate climate class, as indicated in the instructions for the equipment:

1. T -/+18…+43 °C – not suitable for balconies, but ideal for hot climates.
2. N -/+16…+32 °C – the most suitable option for most regions of the country.
3. N-ST -/+16…+38 °C – characteristics similar to the previous class.

The instruction manual will help you find out which climate class the device belongs to. The information is also located along with other parameters on a sticker on the back of the unit.

If the mini refrigerator is to be used in rooms that are not heated or heated periodically, you must take into account the manufacturer’s instructions on the temperature range possible for use.

TOP 7 best stationary models

The range of compressor devices is quite extensive, so we will consider below the most effective of them.

Place #1 - Pozis RS-411 S

Refrigerator RS-411 S manufacturer Pozis — successful execution from a domestic manufacturer. The first thing you should focus on is the convenience of mechanical adjustment. Temperature indicators can be adjusted in one of five positions.

Upper compartment with a volume of 14 liters. It is designed for low temperature storage.

The freezer compartment cools down to -12 °C, in the main compartment the temperature is regulated from 0 °C to 10 °C. The unit has proven its efficiency and cost-effectiveness during operation.

Ergonomic use of usable space is achieved by adjusting the height of the metal shelf. The door has a one-piece pocket for storing bottles, and at the top there is a compartment with a mold for eggs.

Among the noted shortcomings, a similar problem is the noisy operation of the motor. However, the indicators do not irritate the ears and are quite acceptable for everyday use.

Place #2 – Hotpoint-Ariston BTSZ 1632

The built-in refrigerator Hotpoint-Ariston BTSZ 1632 is in demand among buyers. Its dimensions are 58x54.5x81.5 cm, energy consumption corresponds to class A+, noise level is up to 40 dB. The body is made of white plastic, so the unit will fit into any interior without any problems.

This is a single-chamber model with a capacity of 102 liters. Almost all the usable space is occupied by the refrigerator compartment - 83 liters, and 19 liters are allocated for the freezer compartment. The capacity of the refrigerator allows you to freeze up to 2 kg of food per day. Autonomous preservation of cold inside the chamber in the event of a power outage - up to 11 hours.

The refrigerator compartment has a drip system (the so-called “crying wall”); the freezer will have to be defrosted manually from time to time.

Main advantages: compact size, fairly spacious refrigeration compartment, good food preservation, thanks to the tight-fitting door, food does not spoil.

The disadvantages include a small freezer and high cost.

Place #3 - Biryusa 50

Biryusa 50 is a compact free-standing refrigerator with a total capacity of 46 liters. The refrigerator compartment takes up 45 liters, and there is also a tiny 1 liter freezer.

This unit, although quite small in appearance, turned out to be quite roomy inside - thanks to the well-thought-out arrangement of the metal shelf. There is even a compartment for eggs on the door, although for some reason there are only 3 pieces. The door, if necessary, can be moved to the other side.

The energy consumption of this model corresponds to class A+; defrosting must be done manually.As for the noise level, it can reach 42 dB.

One of the features of the Biryusa 50 refrigerator that amazed some owners is the presence of a built-in lock, for example, there is a keyhole on the door, and the kit comes with 2 miniature keys. Therefore, the model is perfect for use in the office - all products will be reliably protected (like in a safe) from attacks by strangers.

Users speak positively about this refrigerator - for such a price they simply do not see any shortcomings.

Place #4 – Hansa FM050.4

The free-standing single-chamber refrigerator Hansa FM050.4 is also quite popular among buyers. Energy consumption of Hansa FM050.4 corresponds to class A+, noise level - up to 35 dB.

Its small dimensions (47x44.7x49.6 cm) are successfully combined with an unexpectedly spacious chamber - 41 liters of usable volume are provided inside the refrigeration compartment. There is also a 5-liter freezer - a pack of dumplings or ice cream will be stored until the right time.

The refrigerator compartment has a drip system, but the freezer will have to be defrosted manually periodically.

The shelf material is glass. There is a possibility of reversing the door. Control type: electromechanical.

Among the advantages, users note light weight, compact dimensions and good capacity. Moreover, the refrigerator preserves food placed inside the chamber well.

Among the disadvantages are the lack of lighting inside the chamber, the inability to place a large pan, inconvenient holders on the door, the body quickly gets dirty, but can be wiped off just as quickly. Some owners also note that careless transportation or use can leave dents on the body.

Place #5 – Indel B Iceberg 30 Plus

The built-in miniature bar Indel B Iceberg 30 Plus is good for cooling drinks and for temporary storage of prepared dishes.

Inside its small refrigerator compartment there are moving shelves, the movement of which allows you to adapt the device to place products in almost any container.

The Indel B Iceberg 30 Plus device is suitable for installation in vehicles and is successfully integrated into cabinet furniture in offices, hotels, and conference rooms.

This model has deep shelves on the door; they can be used to place products packaged in narrow vertically oriented containers and for drinks.

Place #6 - Shivaki SHRF-74CH

Miniature refrigerator SHRF-74CH brand Shivaki brand deserves trust. Despite the little-known manufacturer, this did not in any way affect the quality of the review model.

In this compact device you can organize the storage of a small amount of food, but the ergonomics here are at the highest level. It can be used equally effectively both at home and in work environments.

The installation type of equipment is free-standing. The control is completely electromechanical. The quality of seals, metal and plastic parts is at a decent level.

Low energy consumption class A+ will not hurt your pocket when paying your electricity bills. The organization of space is also one of the advantages of the unit: a lattice shelf and two door pockets conveniently delimit the 62-liter chamber. There is also a 5 liter freezer compartment.

There are also negative aspects: manual defrosting and noisy operation. The sound does not significantly spoil the positive impression, and defrosting is enough to do twice a year.

Place #7 – KRAFT BR-50I

The freestanding single-chamber refrigerator KRAFT BR-50I is also quite popular among buyers. It looks stylish - the body is made of silver metal and plastic.

This is a single-compressor model, its dimensions are 44.9x48.1x51 cm.

The design of the unit provides a freezer compartment with a volume of 44 liters and a small freezer with a capacity of 3 liters, the latter will require periodic manual defrosting.

The control is electromechanical, the energy consumption of this model is A+, the noise level reaches 38 dB. The shelf material is metal.

Among the advantages, users note fairly quiet operation, excellent food preservation and affordable cost.

As for the disadvantages, no significant ones were found.

Popular mobile models and brands

Household appliances, including refrigeration, are presented in a wide range, but you should not fall for the seller’s tricks and buy the first copy you come across. We present an overview of models that will fully meet the price-quality criteria.

The most popular company among car enthusiasts is Waeco. The company is focused on producing all types of auto-refrigerators.

Model of gas auto-refrigerator Combicool RC 2200 EGP from Waeco: cooling up to 33 °C from ambient temperature, average energy consumption is 85 W or gas 10.5 g/hour

The most successful technical characteristics are embodied in the following models:

1. Combicool RC 2200 EGP from Waeco – the best universal absorption unit, operating from a 12/220 V power supply or from a gas cylinder. Made in a shock-resistant aluminum case, equipped with a temperature controller and piezo ignition, it is absolutely silent.
2. Waeco CoolFreeze CFX 40 – thermoelectric single-chamber auto-refrigerator with better energy efficiency. A chamber with a volume of 38 liters is quite enough to accommodate the necessary food set. Receives power from the mains 12/24/110/220 V. Power consumption 48 W.

It is also worth noting high-quality samples of products from little-known manufacturers such as: Campingaz, Mystery, Ezetil And GioStyle.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

From the video you will learn what type of auto-refrigerators is the most effective, and how they actually differ from each other, except for the price category:

The life of a modern person can no longer be imagined without household appliances, and the refrigerator can be considered one of the most necessary appliances.

Nevertheless, the interior should not be cluttered with large-sized equipment, and today's models of small refrigeration units are presented at a decent level. Therefore, choosing the best mini-option that can be useful not only in everyday life will not be difficult..

Are you thinking about buying a miniature refrigerator and want to get advice on the option you like with other visitors to our site? Ask your questions in the comments section and include the model name.

Do you have your own point of view on the advisability of buying a mini version of the refrigerator? Write it under this article and provide compelling arguments in favor of your opinion.