Joybuy Insights

Freestanding Fridge-Freezer Buying Guide

By the Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, July 04, 2026

Purchasing a new fridge-freezer is a major decision for any household. The market offers a vast array of models, sizes, and technologies, which can make the selection process challenging. This article serves as a practical guide to help you make an informed decision. We will introduce various models and explain the key criteria you should consider when buying a freestanding fridge-freezer.

What to Look for When Buying a Refrigerator

Before you decide on a model, it's helpful to analyse your own needs. The following points provide guidance on finding the right appliance for your household.

1. Energy Efficiency Class and Operating Costs

Since the introduction of the new EU energy label in 2021, the scale ranges from A (very efficient) to G (less efficient). An appliance with an Energy Efficiency Class A rating consumes significantly less electricity than models in the lower classes. Although the initial purchase price may be higher, the lower operating costs lead to noticeable savings on your electricity bill over the years. Pay attention to the specified annual energy consumption in kilowatt-hours (kWh) to better estimate long-term costs.

2. Design, Size, and Net Capacity

Choosing the right size depends on your household size and shopping habits.

  • Classic Fridge-Freezer: With the freezer compartment at the bottom, this is the most common design. It is suitable for most households.
  • Side-by-Side Refrigerator: These models offer a great deal of storage space and are ideal for large families or those who like to buy in bulk. They often come with extra features like a water or ice dispenser.
  • Compact Refrigerator: Compact models with an integrated or top-mounted freezer compartment are a practical solution for single households, small kitchens, or as a second appliance.

The net capacity is specified in litres. A good rule of thumb is about 100 litres of cooling capacity for one person and 50 litres for each additional person.

3. Technical Features: No Frost, Noise Level, and Smart Functions

Modern appliances offer a range of technologies that make daily life easier.

  • No Frost Refrigerator:No Frost technology prevents the build-up of ice and frost in the freezer compartment. This eliminates the need for manual defrosting, and the appliance operates with consistent energy efficiency.
  • Quiet Refrigerator: The operating noise level is a crucial factor, especially in open-plan kitchens. A quiet refrigerator has a noise level below 40 decibels (dB). Models around 35 dB are barely perceptible.
  • Refrigerator with Water Dispenser: An integrated water dispenser provides chilled water at the touch of a button. There are models with a plumbed-in connection and those with an internal water tank, which offer more flexible placement.
  • Smart Refrigerator: A Smart Refrigerator can be connected to an app via Wi-Fi. This enables features like remote temperature control, open-door alerts, or food management.

Selected Fridge-Freezers to Buy

Here is a selection of appliances that cater to different needs and budgets.

Haier HSPR79F18EWMB S+ 7 Side-by-Side

Haier HSPR79F18EWMB S+ 7 Side-by-Side Refrigerator

What sets this model apart: The Haier Refrigerator HSPR79F18EWMB is a Side-by-Side Refrigerator that offers an enormous amount of space with a total net capacity of 573 litres. Its standout feature is the flexible Switch Zone, which can be used as either a fridge or freezer section as needed. The Total No Frost technology prevents ice build-up, while the Air Surround system ensures even cooling.

Pros:

  • Very large net capacity (573 litres)
  • Switch Zone: Can be flexibly used as a fridge or freezer
  • Total No Frost: No manual defrosting required
  • Integrated Refrigerator with Water Dispenser (tank-based)
  • Low operating noise level of approx. 37 dB

Who is this appliance for? Ideal for large families and households that value ample storage space, flexibility, and modern cooling technologies.

Bauknecht K55V1 112W1 Refrigerator

Bauknecht K55V1 112W1 Fridge

What sets this model apart: The Bauknecht K55V1 112W1 is a compact and practical small refrigerator with a top-mounted freezer compartment. With a total net capacity of 114 litres and an automatic defrost function in the fridge section, it is a functional solution for smaller spaces.

Pros:

  • Compact dimensions, ideal for small kitchens
  • Very quiet operation at only 36 dB(A)
  • Automatic defrost in the fridge section
  • Reversible door hinge for flexible placement

Who is this appliance for? Perfect for single households, students, as a second appliance in the basement or office, or anywhere a reliable and space-saving unit is needed.

Haier HDPW7620AANPK 2D 60 Series 7 Pro Smart Inverter

Haier HDPW7620AANPK 2D 60 Series 7 Pro Smart Inverter Refrigerator

What sets this model apart: This model from Haier sets the standard for energy efficiency. With an Energy Efficiency Class A rating, it is one of the most economical appliances on the market. As a Smart Refrigerator, it can be controlled via the hOn app. Specialised zones like the My Zone and Humidity Zone ensure optimised storage for different types of food.

Pros:

  • Highest Energy Efficiency Class A (approx. 114 kWh/year)
  • Smart Refrigerator with Wi-Fi connectivity and app control
  • Extremely quiet at approx. 35 dB
  • Specialised freshness zones (My Zone, Humidity Zone)
  • Complete No Frost technology

Who is this appliance for? Suitable for tech-savvy and eco-conscious users who value maximum energy efficiency, smart features, and precise food storage.

Gorenje NRK620CA2XL4 Fridge-Freezer

Gorenje NRK620CA2XL4 Freestanding Fridge Freezer

What sets this model apart: The Gorenje NRK620CA2XL4 is a well-balanced freestanding fridge-freezer that combines modern technology with a solid price-performance ratio. It offers ample space for families with 331 litres of capacity and features full No Frost technology. With a noise level of just 35 dB, it is also a very quiet refrigerator.

Pros:

  • Good Energy Efficiency Class C
  • No Frost in both fridge and freezer sections
  • Very quiet operation (35 dB)
  • Features like SuperCool and FastFreeze for rapid cooling
  • Good capacity of 331 litres

Who is this appliance for? A great choice for families looking for a reliable, quiet, and well-equipped appliance. Models like this are often available as an attractive refrigerator deal.

Discover More Options

The models presented here already cover a wide spectrum. If you haven't found the right appliance for your specific needs, or if you are also looking for suitable storage solutions for your kitchen, you can find more options in our Appliance Cabinet category.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What does "No Frost" mean in a fridge-freezer?

"No Frost" is a technology that prevents the formation of ice and frost in the freezer compartment by constantly circulating cold, dry air. This eliminates the tedious and energy-intensive task of manual defrosting. Additionally, cooling performance remains consistently high, and food is stored more gently.

How important is the energy efficiency class when buying a refrigerator?

The energy efficiency class is very important, as a refrigerator runs 24 hours a day. An appliance with a high efficiency class (e.g., Energy Efficiency Class A) consumes significantly less electricity over its entire lifespan than a model with a lower class. The initially higher purchase cost is typically offset by the savings on your electricity bill.

How loud is a quiet refrigerator?

Models with a noise level below 40 decibels (dB) are considered a quiet refrigerator. Appliances with ratings around 35 dB are barely audible to the human ear and are excellently suited for open-plan kitchens where noise could be considered disruptive. The noise level is indicated on the EU energy label.