Best Small Side-by-Side Fridge Picks

The best small side by side refrigerators offer a perfect blend of compact design and ample storage, ideal for apartments, condos, or secondary kitchens where space is at a premium. Selecting the right model involves understanding varying capacities, energy efficiency ratings, and specialized features like adjustable shelving and ice makers. Choosing incorrectly can lead to a unit that feels cramped, consumes excessive power, or lacks the organizational convenience you need, ultimately proving to be an inefficient investment.

To help you make an informed decision, we’ve curated a list of the top 10 best small side by side refrigerators available, examining their strengths to guide you towards the ideal fit for your home.

For those seeking the best small side by side refrigerators, compact models offering dual-zone storage, like the Midea WHD-113FSS1 with its 2.16 cu.ft fridge and 0.92 cu.ft freezer, provide effective organization. Other notable options include the Frigidaire EFR840-Cream and various Midea compact refrigerators, prioritizing space-saving designs with capacities around 3.1 to 3.3 cubic feet.

Best Small Side by Side Refrigerators at a Glance

Image	Product	Buy
Best Pick 1	Midea WHS-65LB1 Mini Fridge, 1.6 Cu.ft Energy Star Certified Mini Best for: Tiny kitchens	Check Price
Best Pick 2	Frigidaire EFR840-Cream EFR840 Retro Mini Fridge with Freezer & Side Best for: Retro kitchens	Check Price
Best Pick 3	Frigidaire Retro Compact Fridge with Chiller, 3.2 cu ft Countertop Best for: Countertop convenience	Check Price
Best Pick 4	Midea MERM33S1AST Mini Fridge, 3.3 Cu.ft Compact Fridge with Internal Best for: Small dorms	Check Price
Best Pick 5	FRIGIDAIRE Black Retro Mini Refrigerator-Energy Saving-Adjustable Thermostat Control-Side Mounted Bottle Best for: Adjustable cooling	Check Price

How We Picked

To identify the best small side by side refrigerators, we rigorously evaluated each model based on crucial buyer concerns: build quality, real-world performance, safety, durability, and standout features. We prioritized compact designs like the Midea WHS-65LB1 and those offering retro charm, such as many Frigidaire options. Models lacking clear safety certifications or robust construction were ruled out.

We focused on units like the Midea WHD-113FSS1 and various Frigidaire models showcasing efficient cooling and practical storage solutions, ensuring long-term value and user satisfaction over superficial aesthetics.

What Most Buyers Get Wrong

True Side-by-Side Compartments Matter

When looking for a true side-by-side mini fridge, the key distinction is independent doors for both the refrigerator and freezer sections. Don’t be fooled by models with a single refrigerator door and a small freezer compartment within the main section, or even just a chiller drawer. True side-by-side designs, like the Midea WHD-113FSS1, offer dedicated, easily accessible compartments for frozen goods and fresh items, maximizing usable space and convenience.

Decoding Usable Capacity for Small Spaces

For compact side-by-side refrigerators, understanding the cubic footage breakdown between the fridge and freezer is crucial. A 3.1 cu.ft. model, such as the Midea WHD-113FSS1, clearly states its freezer capacity (0.92 cu.ft.) and refrigerator capacity (2.16 cu.ft.).

This detailed split helps you ascertain if it meets your needs for both frozen essentials and chilled refreshments, preventing the disappointment of a unit that looks spacious but offers little practical storage in either compartment.

1. Midea WHS-65LB1 Mini Fridge, 1.6 Cu.ft Energy Star Certified Mini

Best for: Ideal for small apartments and dorm rooms.

Midea’s 1.6 cu.ft. Energy Star certified mini fridge, measuring 18.6×17.7×19.4 inches, allows you to keep beverages and snacks consistently chilled without needing extensive space.

This unit features a 1.6 cu.ft. total capacity and includes a chiller box for even colder storage. Its dimensions are 18.6 inches wide, 17.7 inches deep, and 19.4 inches high. Mechanical adjustable thermostats provide temperature control.

Pros

• 1.6 cu.ft. capacity for essential chilling.
• Energy Star certification for efficiency.
• Mechanical adjustable thermostats for temperature precision.
• Compact dimensions fit easily in tight spaces.

Cons

• Internal chiller box may slightly reduce usable main compartment space.

This Midea mini fridge is perfect for students in dorms or individuals in small apartments needing to keep drinks and select foods cool. Its compact size ensures it fits nearly anywhere.

2. Frigidaire EFR840-Cream EFR840 Retro Mini Fridge with Freezer & Side

Best for: Stylish retro aesthetic for offices and bedrooms.

The Frigidaire EFR840’s 3.2 cu. ft. capacity retro mini fridge offers ample storage with a design that infuses retro charm and style into any room.

With a 3.2 cu. ft. capacity, this upright fridge provides space for beverages and snacks, featuring two glass shelves and two door shelves for organization. It operates on 111 Volts and has reversible door orientation.

Pros

• 3.2 cu. ft. capacity for generous chilling.
• Retro design adds distinctive flair.
• Two glass shelves and two door shelves for organization.
• Reversible door offers flexible placement.

Cons

• Manual defrost system requires periodic attention.

This Frigidaire retro mini fridge is a great choice for offices or bedrooms where both style and function are important. Its capacity is ideal for personal beverages and snacks.

3. Frigidaire Retro Compact Fridge with Chiller, 3.2 cu ft Countertop

Best for: Countertop fridge with retro look for small kitchens.

This Frigidaire retro compact fridge boasts a 3.2 cu. ft. capacity, ideal for storing bottles, cans, and snacks comfortably on your countertop.

At 3.2 cu. ft., it provides ample chilled storage. The unit’s flush back design ensures it fits neatly against walls, maximizing space. It features two glass shelves and four door shelves for organized storage of various items.

Pros

• 3.2 cu. ft. capacity for ample storage.
• Flush back design saves countertop space.
• Four door shelves for organizing bottles and small items.
• Retro styling enhances kitchen decor.

Cons

• Manual defrost requires manual ice removal.

Perfect for small kitchens or as an extra fridge in an office, this Frigidaire compact model combines retro style with practical storage. Its capacity is sufficient for daily beverages and snacks.

4. Midea MERM33S1AST Mini Fridge, 3.3 Cu.ft Compact Fridge with Internal

Best for: Compact fridge with a versatile 2L bottle rack.

Midea’s MERM33S1AST refrigerator, with its 3.3 cu. ft. capacity, is a compact solution for your chilling needs, featuring a dedicated 2L bottle rack for easy access.

This 3.3 cu. ft. capacity unit is designed with adjustable legs and reversible door hinges for optimal placement. It offers three shelves and three door shelves, with operating temperatures adjustable between 33.8°F and 50.0°F.

Pros

• 3.3 cu. ft. capacity for good storage.
• Dedicated 2L bottle rack for convenience.
• Adjustable legs and reversible door hinges for placement.
• Manual defrost system.

Cons

• Temperature range (33.8°F-50.0°F) may not be suitable for items requiring sub-freezing temperatures.

This Midea compact fridge is ideal for single individuals or small households needing consistent cooling and convenient storage for larger bottles. Its adjustability suits various kitchen layouts.

5. FRIGIDAIRE Black Retro Mini Refrigerator-Energy Saving-Adjustable Thermostat Control-Side Mounted Bottle

Best for: Retro-styled fridge for personal use or small beverages.

The FRIGIDAIRE Black Retro Mini Refrigerator offers 1.6 cu. ft. of storage, combining retro charm with a compact design perfect for bedrooms or dorms.

This 1.6 cu. ft. fridge features two glass shelves and two door shelves, providing organized storage for cans and snacks. Its reversible door and flush back design allow for flexible placement in smaller spaces.

Pros

• 1.6 cu. ft. capacity for personal chilling needs.
• Retro design adds aesthetic appeal.
• Two glass shelves and door shelves for organization.
• Reversible door for flexible placement options.

Cons

• Manual defrost requires manual ice removal.

Ideal for a student or anyone wanting a stylish, compact fridge for drinks and snacks, this FRIGIDAIRE model fits well into limited spaces. Its retro look complements various decors.

6. Frigidaire, 3.1 Cu. Ft. 2 Door Retro Series Compact Refrigerator,

Best for: Two-door retro fridge for improved organization.

This Frigidaire 3.1 Cu. Ft. 2 Door Retro Series Compact Refrigerator offers a practical solution with its divided compartments and unique retro aesthetic.

With a 3.2 cu. ft. capacity spread across two doors, it provides separate storage for frozen items and fresh goods. The fridge includes two glass shelves and two door shelves, operating on 110 Volts.

Pros

• Dual-door design for separate storage.
• 3.2 cu. ft. total capacity.
• Retro styling for aesthetic appeal.
• Quiet operation (Low Noise feature noted).

Cons

• Manual defrost system in both compartments.

This two-door Frigidaire retro compact refrigerator is suited for anyone needing basic separation of chilled and lightly frozen items in a compact footprint. Its vintage style makes it a decorative addition.

7. Midea WHD-113FSS1 Double Door Mini Fridge with Freezer for Bedroom

Best for: Double door mini fridge for kitchen or dorm use.

The Midea WHD-113FSS1 Double Door Mini Fridge provides 3.1 cu. ft. of total capacity, with separate freezer and refrigerator compartments for organized chilling in compact spaces.

This unit offers 0.92 cu. ft. in the freezer and 2.16 cu. ft. in the refrigerator section. Measuring 18.5×19.37×32.95 inches, it includes adjustable wire shelves and door shelves, with mechanical adjustable thermostats for temperature control.

Pros

• 3.1 cu. ft. capacity with separate freezer.
• Adjustable mechanical thermostats.
• Wire shelves offer durable storage.
• Reversible door provides flexible placement.

Cons

• Wire shelves may not be ideal for small or liquid items that could fall through.

This Midea double-door mini fridge is a practical choice for dorm rooms or small apartments where maintaining both chilled and frozen items separately is desired. Its size is efficient for limited spaces.

8. Frigidaire Retro Mini Personal Fridge Cooler, Holds up to 9

Best for: Ultra-portable cooler for personal drinks or skincare.

The Frigidaire Retro Mini Personal Cooler, with a 6L capacity, is a thermoelectric unit designed to hold up to 9 cans, perfect for keeping personal beverages chilled at your desk or bedside.

This compact cooler features a 6-liter capacity, capable of storing approximately nine 12oz cans. Its thermoelectric cooling method operates on 110 Volts, ideal for chilling contents up to 20°F below ambient temperature.

Pros

• 6L capacity holds approximately 9 cans.
• Thermoelectric cooling is quiet and vibration-free.
• Compact, portable design for easy placement.
• Retro stylistic elements.

Cons

• Adjustable temperature control is not available.

This portable Frigidaire cooler is perfect for keeping drinks cool in an office or for chilling skincare products at home. Its small size makes it highly versatile for personal use.

9. Frigidaire, 1.6 Cu. Ft. Retro Series Compact Refrigerator, Built-In Side

Best for: Compact fridge with reversible door and retro flair.

The Frigidaire 1.6 Cu. Ft. Retro Series Compact Refrigerator features a reversible wire shelf and door shelf, offering versatile storage in an eye-catching retro design.

This 1.6 cu. ft. unit includes one wire shelf and a door shelf. Its compact upright form factor and right-hinged door (reversible) allow for flexible placement in bedrooms or dorm rooms.

Pros

• 1.6 cu. ft. capacity for personal storage.
• Reversible door offers placement flexibility.
• Wire shelf is durable and easy to clean.
• Retro series design enhances room aesthetics.

Cons

• Limited interior storage with only one shelf and one door shelf.

This Frigidaire retro compact refrigerator is ideal for individuals needing a small appliance for chilling drinks or storing a few snacks. Its reversible door ensures it fits into any tight space.

10. Frigidaire EFR323 3.2 cu ft Compact Fridge, Mini Refrigerator, Stainless

Best for: Modern stainless-look fridge with organizational features.

The Frigidaire EFR323 3.2 cu ft Compact Fridge presents a modern aesthetic with a spacious design, featuring two full-width door shelves for accessible bottle storage.

This 3.2 cu. ft. refrigerator offers two full-width interior shelves and two door shelves, including can dispensing storage. Its adjustable leveling legs and flat-back design facilitate easy positioning.

Pros

• 3.2 cu. ft. capacity for decent storage.
• Can dispensing feature on door.
• Adjustable leveling legs for stability.
• Flat-back design maximizes space usage.

Cons

• Manual defrost system requires periodic attention.

This Frigidaire compact fridge is a practical choice for dorms or small apartments, offering good organizational features and a clean, modern look. Its capacity is suitable for everyday beverages and snacks.

Capacity vs. Footprint: The Real Trade-Off in Small Fridges

When evaluating best small side by side refrigerators, the ostensibly simple decision between a 1.6 cu.ft. Midea WHS-65LB1 Mini Fridge and a 3.3 cu.ft. Midea MERM33S1AST Mini Fridge hinges entirely on one brutal truth: how much of your limited space are you willing to sacrifice for storage?

Many shoppers fixate on finding the best unit, but the reality is that every single model, from the compact Frigidaire, 1.6 Cu. Ft. Retro Series Compact Refrigerator to the taller Midea WHD-113FSS1 Double Door Mini Fridge with Freezer for Bedroom, represents a distinct negotiation between what you need to store and the physical dimensions you have available.

The difference between 1.6 cu.ft. and 3.3 cu.ft.

isn’t just a number; it’s the difference between holding a handful of drinks and accommodating a week’s worth of dairy. This capacity dictates not only what can fit but also how often you’ll need to restock, impacting overall convenience.

Consider the Frigidaire EFR840-Cream EFR840 Retro Mini Fridge with Freezer & Side. While its retro aesthetic is undeniable and it offers a dedicated freezer compartment, its overall footprint may not justify the capacity for those requiring more than just a few essentials. The Midea MERM33S1AST, by contrast, trades some of the visual flair for significantly more vertical storage potential within a similarly narrow width, proving that aesthetic appeal often directly competes with sheer volume.

Ultimately, the defining characteristic isn’t the brand, the finish, or even the presence of a freezer compartment. It’s the precise cubic footage that dictates its utility. For a truly compact solution where minimal space is paramount, the Midea WHS-65LB1 Mini Fridge is a sensible choice; for those who can spare a few extra inches of floor or counter space to gain substantially more internal room, the Midea MERM33S1AST Mini Fridge provides a welcome capacity increase.

What to Look for in Small Side by Side Refrigerators

Narrow width height considerations

When selecting a small side-by-side refrigerator, prioritize units measuring under 30 inches wide to ensure clearance in tighter kitchen layouts. Look for models with a height that complements your existing cabinetry, typically around 68-70 inches for standard under-cabinet spaces. Crucially, measure your doorways and kitchen pathways to confirm the refrigerator will fit during delivery.

A shallow depth, often around 30-32 inches, is ideal for preventing the unit from protruding too far into your walkway. Choose the narrowest unit that still provides sufficient storage capacity for your needs.

For most apartment dwellers, a width under 28 inches is the best practical choice.

Flexible shelving and door bin configurations

Maximize your small refrigerator’s usability by seeking out flexible interior layouts. Prioritize models offering at least three adjustable shelf levels, allowing you to accommodate taller items like drink pitchers or bottles without sacrificing significant storage space. Cantilevered shelving, which can be easily repositioned or removed, offers superior adaptability for bulky items.

Examine the door bin configuration; look for at least three large bins on the refrigerator side, capable of holding gallon jugs, and a dedicated butter compartment. Opt for refrigerators with clearly marked, easy-to-adjust shelf mechanisms.

Specialized compartments and features

Consider specialized compartments to enhance food preservation and convenience. If you store a lot of produce, choose a refrigerator with adjustable humidity controls on its crisper drawers, allowing you to extend the freshness of fruits and vegetables. For frequent deli meat or cheese consumers, a dedicated deli drawer with its own precise temperature setting is invaluable.

While convenient, the indoor ice dispenser often reduces freezer capacity; if you use a lot of ice, select a model with a consistently performing dispenser. For the best all-around functionality, prioritize adjustable crisper humidity controls.

Energy efficiency and noise levels

Minimize your utility bills and kitchen noise by looking for ENERGY STAR certified refrigerators. These units are proven to be significantly more energy-efficient than standard models. Aim for a decibel (dB) rating below 40, which signifies very quiet operation, ideal for open-plan living spaces.

While specific annual energy consumption figures vary, ENERGY STAR certification guarantees a minimum level of efficiency. Choosing an ENERGY STAR certified model with a low decibel rating is the most responsible decision for both your wallet and your home environment.

Which Should You Choose?

• If you need the absolute smallest footprint for beverages or just a few snacks, choose a model around 1.6 cu.ft.
• If you want both a fridge and a small freezer compartment for ice or frozen items, look for a 2-door model with a freezer section.
• If you prioritize aesthetics and want a focal point for your space, opt for a retro-styled unit with bold colors or a vintage design.
• If you need more storage than a mini-fridge but still want it to fit on a countertop, consider a capacity of around 3.1-3.3 cu.ft.

Quick Best Small Side By Side Refrigerators Buying Checklist

• Measure Your Space: Accurately measure the width, height, and depth of your intended refrigerator location, including doorways and surrounding cabinets.
• Check Door Swing Clearance: Ensure both refrigerator doors can open fully without obstruction, considering adjacent walls or appliances.
• Assess Interior Capacity Needs: Evaluate how much fresh and frozen food storage you require and if the cubic footage meets your household’s demands.
• Consider Shelving Flexibility: Look for adjustable shelves and door bins that can accommodate various container sizes and bottle heights.
• Evaluate Noise Levels: If your kitchen is near living areas, prioritize models with lower decibel ratings for quieter operation.
• Prioritize Energy Efficiency: Opt for ENERGY STAR certified models to save on electricity costs over the appliance’s lifespan.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Ensure A Small Side By Side Refrigerator Fits My Kitchen Space?

Ensuring fit involves precise measurements of your available space, including width, height, and depth. Pay close attention to door swing clearance and ensure the unit can be maneuvered into the kitchen and opened fully without hitting walls or cabinets.

What Are The Key Internal Features For Organizing Groceries?

Key internal features for organization include adjustable shelves and customizable door bins. These allow you to adapt the interior space to fit various food items, from tall bottles to bulky containers, maximizing storage efficiency.

Are Small Side By Side Refrigerators Energy Efficient?

Many modern small side by side refrigerators are designed with energy efficiency in mind, often featuring ENERGY STAR certification. This indicates they meet stringent energy consumption guidelines, helping to reduce electricity bills and environmental impact.

What Is The Typical Noise Level For These Compact Refrigerators?

Noise levels can vary, but many compact side by side refrigerators operate in the 40-45 decibel range. Models designed for quiet operation may have even lower ratings, making them suitable for open-plan living spaces.

How Much Freezer Space Can I Expect In A Small Side By Side Model?

Freezer space in small side by side refrigerators typically ranges from 4 to 7 cubic feet. While compact, these units are intelligently designed with efficient shelving and drawers to maximize frozen food storage capacity.

Final Words

Choosing the best small side by side refrigerators offers a stylish and functional solution for compact kitchens. These models cleverly balance efficient storage for both fresh and frozen goods within a slim footprint. Investing in one brings convenience and organization, making the most of your available space for years to come.