Mini Fridge Review

Types of small refrigerators

Compared to full-sized refrigerators, compact refrigerators don't perform as well or as consistently across different brands and models. Freezer performance, in particular, seems to suffer, experts say, and we read numerous owner reports of mini fridges breaking down -- often after only a few months of use. With less room for insulation, compact fridges use much more energy per cubic foot than full-size refrigerators. That said, a mini refrigerator can be a real boon in a dorm, office, wet bar or anywhere space is too limited to make a large refrigerator practical.

There are two different cooling technologies that manufacturers use in mini fridges and beverage coolers. Some models have compressors, and therefore stay cool in much the same way as standard size refrigerators, while other mini fridges incorporate thermoelectric (Peltier) cooling, which doesn't require coolant and cools much like portable coolers that can be plugged into a car's cigarette lighter. Thermoelectric cooling works well to chill drinks for short excursions, but it's not effective enough to keep perishable foods below the U.S. Department of Agriculture's recommended maximum of 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Most thermoelectric mini fridges are identified as such on the packaging (in stores) and on the product description page (at online retailers). If it's not clear, look at the specifications for the mini fridge; if the specs state that the unit cools a certain number of degrees below the ambient temperature, or that it must be unplugged intermittently, it's really a thermoelectric cooler -- not a mini fridge. It's important to know which type of cooling system is used before making a final buying decision for a mini fridge, especially if you plan to store perishable food in it. 

Sources of mini fridge reviews

ConsumerReports.org, usually by far the most credible source for professional appliance reviews, tests 15 mini fridges in their refrigerator roundup. Several of the highest-rated mini fridges in their most recent ratings chart have since been discontinued by the manufacturer. A few other websites, such as ConsumerGuide.com and Bestcovery.com, also recommend mini fridges but don't discuss methodology, so it's impossible to tell why specific models are chosen.

Owner-written reviews, on the other hand, are plentiful for compact refrigerators. Retailer websites such as Walmart.com, Sears.com, CompactAppliance.com and AJMadison.com are among the best sources of mini fridge reviews. Although it's hard to draw conclusions based on just a few comments and ratings, trends often become apparent with particular compact fridges.