Small fridge for secondary storage? Check out top 8 options in September 2023
The evolution of refrigerators in Indian homes has led to a range of small fridges that cater to various needs and preferences. Check out the top small refrigerators that you can bring home today.
The refrigerator, an unassuming yet indispensable household appliance, has come a long way in its journey through Indian homes. From the days of simple single-door units to the more sophisticated double-door variants, the evolution of this kitchen staple has been nothing short of remarkable. It's not just a functional device; today, it stands as a statement piece in modern households. When we ponder the role of a fridge in our daily lives, it's not just about preserving perishables; it's about convenience, organization, and lifestyle. The modern refrigerator spectrum has broadened, offering various designs and models to cater to the diverse needs of consumers. It's no longer merely a utility; it's an essential companion that keeps our lives in order.
But what about those who don't seek grandeur in their refrigerators? For some, it's not about size or style; it's about necessity. Enter the small fridge, a compact and practical solution for a range of needs. Not everyone requires a massive cooling behemoth. Some individuals rely on a small fridge to segregate their non-vegetarian food from the vegetarian options, maintaining culinary harmony in their homes. Others repurpose these mini marvels to store pet food, cosmetics, skincare essentials, or even items needed for daily rituals and religious practices. The small fridge isn't just a utilitarian device; it's a versatile companion that adapts to the unique requirements of its owner.
For many, especially bachelors and individuals living in compact spaces, a small fridge makes perfect sense. It occupies minimal space, consumes less energy, and is often more budget-friendly than its larger counterparts. However, the choice between a mini fridge and a small fridge can be perplexing. Do you need a tiny cooling unit to hold a few cans, or do you require a slightly larger one with more storage versatility? This article aims to unravel the mysteries of choosing the right small fridge, catering to various needs and preferences. Whether you seek it for your personal space, your pets, or as an extension of your kitchen, we'll guide you through the world of compact refrigeration, ensuring you're well-prepared for your next purchase.
1. Whirlpool 192 L 5 Star Inverter Direct-Cool Single Door Refrigerator
The Whirlpool 192 L 5-Star inverter direct-cool single door refrigerator is a perfect fit for small-sized families. With its 5-star energy rating, this small fridge delivers outstanding energy efficiency. The Intellisense Inverter technology ensures consistent cooling and comes with a low starting voltage of 95V, making this small fridge reliable even in voltage fluctuations. It features a crescent door design with a Breathe Arc Handle, adding a touch of elegance to your kitchen. The small fridge offers up to 7 days of garden freshness, thanks to its Magic Chiller and Micro Block Technology. It can even preserve milk for up to 12 hours during power cuts. Stabilizer-free operation and a 10-year compressor warranty make it a smart choice for people looking for a small fridge.
Specifications of Whirlpool 192 L 5 Star Inverter Direct-Cool Single Door Refrigerator:
Brand: Whirlpool
Capacity: 192 litres
Energy Star: 5 Star
Warranty: 1 year product warranty, 10 year compressor warranty
Special Features: Stabilizer-free operation, Uniform Cooling, Crescent Door Design, Magic Chiller, Micro Block Technology, Up to 12 Hours of Milk Preservation
| Pros | Cons |
| Energy-efficient with a 5-star rating | Limited capacity for larger families |
| Intellisense Inverter technology for reliable performance | |
| Elegant crescent door design | |
| Long-lasting freshness features |
2. Hisense 45 L 4 Star Direct-Cool Single Door Refrigerator
The Hisense 45 L 4-Star direct-cool single door refrigerator is a compact and economical choice for those seeking a small fridge with efficiency. With a 4-star energy rating, this small fridge balances energy savings and functionality. This small fridge is ideal for individuals, small families, or for specialized storage needs. It features a bottle bin for 2-litre bottles and a wire shelf for organization. The Chiller Zone on this small fridge ensures perfectly chilled items even in a small fridge. The reversible door adds convenience. While it may not be the largest, it's a practical solution for those looking for a secondary fridge.
Specifications of Hisense 45 L 4 Star Direct-Cool Single Door Refrigerator:
Brand: Hisense
Capacity: 46 litres
Energy Star: 4 Star
Warranty: 1 year on product, 10 years on compressor
Special Features: Bottle bin, Chiller Zone, Reversible Door
| Pros | Cons |
| Compact and economical. | Limited storage capacity. |
| Chiller Zone for chilled items. | |
| Reversible door for flexibility. |
Also read: Best refrigerator brand in September 2023: Top picks for you
3. Whirlpool 184 L 2 Star Direct-Cool Single Door Refrigerator
The Whirlpool 184 L 2-Star direct-cool single door refrigerator is designed for small families of 2–3 members. Its 2-star energy rating strikes a balance between performance and energy efficiency. The Intellisense Inverter technology in this small fridge ensures reliable operation even in voltage fluctuations. This small fridge offers up to 9 hours of cooling retention during power cuts, making it a dependable choice. It features jumbo storage, easy manual defrosting, and an auto-connect to the home inverter. The large vegetable crisper and quick chill zone add to its convenience. With toughened glass shelves and insulated capillary technology, this small fridge is a functional addition to any kitchen.
Specifications of Whirlpool 184 L 2 Star Direct-Cool Single Door Refrigerator:
Brand: Whirlpool
Capacity: 184 litres
Energy Star: 2 Star
Warranty: 1 year product warranty, 10 year compressor warranty
Special Features: Stabilizer-free operation, Up to 9 hours of cooling retention, Jumbo Storage, Insulated Capillary Technology, Auto Connect To Home Inverter, Large Vegetable Crisper, Quick Chill Zone
| Pros | Cons |
| Reliable operation in voltage fluctuations. | Lower energy efficiency due to 2-star rating. |
| Ample storage space and convenience features. | |
| Toughened glass shelves for durability. |
4. Haier 165 L 1 Star Direct Cool Single Door Refrigerator
The Haier 165 L 1-Star direct cool single door refrigerator is a stylish and economical choice for individuals or bachelors. While it has a 1-star energy rating, this small fridge offers practical features for small households. The external bar handle adds a modern touch. It provides 150 litres of fresh food capacity and 15 litres of freezer capacity, making it suitable for bachelor living. The small fridge offers stabilizer-free operation and can connect to a home inverter. With firm ice formation and better cooling retention, thanks to Diamond Edge Freezing Technology, it's efficient in its cooling performance. The reversible door on this small fridge adds flexibility to your kitchen layout.
Specifications of Haier 165 L 1 Star Direct Cool Single Door Refrigerator:
Brand: Haier
Capacity: 165 litres
Energy Star: 1 Star
Warranty: 1 year on product, 10 years on compressor
Special Features: Stabilizer-free operation, Diamond Edge Freezing Technology, Reversible Door
| Pros | Cons |
| Stylish design with an external bar handle. | Lower energy efficiency due to 1-star rating. |
| Suitable for bachelor living. | |
| Efficient cooling with Diamond Edge Freezing Technology. |
5. LG 185 L 5 Star Inverter Direct-Cool Single Door Refrigerator
The LG 185 L single door refrigerator is a perfect fit for small families, couples, or bachelors. It boasts a 5-star energy rating, ensuring excellent energy efficiency. Equipped with Smart Inverter Compressor technology, this small fridge not only saves power but also operates silently. The toughened glass shelves provide durability and easy cleaning. The base stand with a drawer adds convenience for storing non-refrigerated items. With features like Moist 'N' Fresh, Chiller, and Fast Ice Making, this small fridge ensures your food stays fresher for longer. The reversible door design enhances accessibility. Stabilizer-free operation and an antibacterial gasket add to the appliance's reliability. This small fridge offers a sleek and efficient cooling solution for compact spaces.
Specifications of LG 185 L 5-Star Inverter Direct-Cool Single Door Refrigerator:
Capacity: 185 litres
Energy Rating: 5 Star
Compressor: Smart Inverter Compressor
Shelf Type: Toughened Glass
Special Features: Moist 'N' Fresh, Chiller, Fast Ice Making, Stabilizer Free Operation, Reversible Door
| Pros | Cons |
| Energy-efficient with a 5-star rating | Limited freezer capacity |
| Silent operation with Smart Inverter | Smaller fresh food section |
| Toughened glass shelves for durability | No large vegetable crisper |
6. LEONARD USA 60 L Inverter Stainless Steel Door Mini Fridge
The LEONARD USA 60 L mini fridge is a compact and stylish refrigerator suitable for dorm rooms, game rooms, home bars, or gyms. Its stainless steel door adds elegance and durability to its design. The small fridge features an antifungal gasket, preventing fungi and bacteria build-up inside. Being energy-star certified, this small fridge meets high-quality standards for energy efficiency. This mini fridge arrives ready to use without the need for installation. With a 1-year India countrywide warranty against manufacturing defects and doorstep service, it offers peace of mind. This small fridge is an ideal choice for those seeking a small, reliable cooling solution for limited spaces.
Specifications of LEONARD USA 60 L Inverter Stainless Steel Door Mini Fridge:
Capacity: 60 litres
Energy Rating: Energy Star Certified
| Pros | Cons |
| Energy-efficient with a 4-star rating | Limited freezer space |
| 1 Hour Icing Technology for quick ice-making | No significant extra features |
| Stabilizer-free operation for reliability |
Also read: Mini refrigerator for space-conscious users: Top 8 picks for September 2023
7. Haier 190 L 4 Star Direct Cool Single Door Refrigerator
The Haier 190 L single door refrigerator is an economical yet stylish choice for small families or bachelors. It features a 4-star energy rating, ensuring efficient cooling while saving power. With a capacity of 190 litres, the small fridge offers ample storage space. The toughened glass shelves are designed for durability and easy cleaning. The small fridge includes a large vegetable box and an antibacterial gasket for added hygiene. Its 1-Hour Icing Technology (HIT) ensures quick ice formation. The small fridge is stabilizer-free, providing reliability during voltage fluctuations. The external handle and sleek design enhance its appeal. This Haier small fridge combines functionality and affordability.
Specifications of Haier 190 L 4 Star Direct Cool Single Door Refrigerator:
Capacity: 190 litres
Energy Rating: 4 Stars
Shelf Type: Toughened Glass
| Pros | Cons |
| Energy-efficient with a 4-star rating | Limited freezer space |
| 1 Hour Icing Technology for quick ice-making | No significant extra features |
| Stabilizer-free operation for reliability |
8. Samsung 183 L 2 Star Digital Inverter Direct-Cool Single Door Refrigerator
The Samsung 183 L single door refrigerator combines style and efficiency in a compact design. With a modern gray silver pattern, it adds a touch of elegance to any kitchen. This 2-star energy-rated small fridge is suitable for small families. Its Digital Inverter Compressor provides efficient cooling while consuming 50% less power, backed by a 20-year warranty. The interior of the small fridge includes toughened glass shelves, a large vegetable drawer, and antibacterial gaskets for hygiene. Additional features like Fresh Room, Stabilizer-Free Operation, and Smart Connect Inverter enhance this small fridge's convenience. The fridge's exterior boasts a bar handle and lock for added security. This Samsung small fridge offers reliability and performance.
Specifications of Samsung 183 L 2-Star Digital Inverter Direct-Cool Single Door Refrigerator:
Capacity: 183 litres
Energy Rating: 2 Stars
Shelf Type: Toughened Glass
| Pros | Cons |
| Stylish design with a modern pattern | Lower energy efficiency |
| Digital Inverter Compressor for efficiency | Limited energy rating |
| Stabilizer-free operation for reliability |
Best 3 features of small fridge for you
| Product Name | Feature 1 | Feature 2 | Feature 3 |
| Whirlpool 192 L 5 Star Inverter Direct-Cool Single Door | 5 Star Energy Rating | Intellisense Inverter technology | 7 Days of Garden Freshness |
| Hisense 45 L 4 Star Direct-Cool Single Door | Compact and Economical | Anti-fungal gasket | Reversible Door for Convenience |
| Whirlpool 184 L 2 Star Direct-Cool Single Door | 2 Star Energy Rating | Stabilizer-Free Operation | 9 Hours of Cooling Retention During Power Cuts |
| Haier 165 L 1 Star Direct Cool Single Door | Economical and Stylish | Diamond Edge Freezing Technology | Base Stand with Drawer for Extra Space |
| LG 185 L 5 Star Inverter Direct-Cool Single Door | 5 Star Energy Rating | Smart Inverter Compressor | Moist 'N' Fresh, Tray Vegetable |
| LEONARD USA 60 L Inverter Stainless Steel Door Mini | Stainless Steel Door for Elegance and Durability | Anti-fungal gasket | Compact and Ready to Use |
| Haier 190 L 4 Star Direct Cool Single Door | 4 Star Energy Rating | Stabilizer-Free Operation | Large Vegetable Box and Toughened Glass Shelves |
| Samsung 183 L 2 Star Digital Inverter Direct-Cool | Stylish Gray Silver Pattern | Digital Inverter Compressor | Fresh Room and Grande Door Design |
Best value for money
Among the options, the Haier 165 L 1 Star Direct Cool Single Door Refrigerator stands out as the best value for money. Despite its 1-star energy rating, it offers a compact and stylish design, Diamond Edge Freezing Technology for efficient cooling, and a base stand with a drawer for extra storage. This fridge caters to the basic cooling needs of small families or bachelors without breaking the bank.
Best overall product
The LG 185 L 5-Star Inverter Direct-Cool Single Door Refrigerator emerges as the best overall product. With a 5-star energy rating, smart inverter compressor, and features like Moist 'N' Fresh and Tray Vegetable, it ensures efficient and versatile cooling for families. Its silent operation and energy efficiency make it an excellent choice for Indian households.
How to find the right small fridge in India?
When looking for the right small fridge in India, consider factors like capacity, energy efficiency, and special features. Assess your family size and storage needs to choose the appropriate capacity. Opt for a higher energy star rating to save on electricity bills. Look for special features such as stabilizer-free operation, antibacterial gasket, and vegetable storage options to enhance usability. Additionally, evaluate the design, including reversible doors for flexibility.
Disclaimer: At Livemint, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Mint has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, with respect to the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.
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FAQs
A capacity of 45-60 litres is typically sufficient for a bachelor’s apartment.
Many modern small fridges come with stabilizer-free operation, but it’s advisable to check the specifications.
Yes, inverter compressors offer energy savings and quieter operation, making them a good choice.
Yes, compact and quiet models like LEONARD USA’s fridge are suitable for bedrooms.
It depends on the model, but manual defrosting is typically needed every few months or when frost buildup is significant.
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First Published:28 Sep 2023, 07:14 PM IST
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