Choosing a new freestanding fridge-freezer is a major decision that requires a careful look at both technical specs and your everyday needs. Key parameters like energy efficiency, net capacity, noise level, and technological features determine a model's suitability for your household. This article highlights the crucial criteria and presents a selection of models with different strengths.
The right choice depends on objective factors. The following criteria provide a structured basis for your comparison.
The energy efficiency class, rated on a scale from A (highest efficiency) to G (lowest efficiency), directly impacts your ongoing electricity costs. Appliances with an energy efficiency class of B or C represent the modern standard and offer significant savings compared to older models. The annual energy consumption, specified in kilowatt-hours per year (kWh/a), is a precise indicator of the expected costs.
The required net capacity depends on your household size and shopping habits. A good rule of thumb is approximately 100 litres of fridge space for one person and 50 litres for each additional person. For freezer compartments, 50 to 80 litres per person is a common guideline. An XXL fridge-freezer offers a total capacity of over 400 litres, making it suitable for large families or households that stock up on groceries. Always check the external dimensions of the appliance to ensure it will fit perfectly in your kitchen.
Modern refrigeration appliances offer various technologies that enhance user convenience and extend the shelf life of food.
The operating noise is measured in decibels (dB(A)). A quiet fridge-freezer is particularly beneficial in open-plan kitchens. Appliances with a noise level of 35 dB(A) or less are considered very quiet. The noise emission class (A to D) provides an additional point of reference.
A freestanding fridge with a freezer compartment offers the advantage of being placed independently of kitchen units. Models are available in various colours and finishes, with a black fridge-freezer or a stainless steel look with an anti-fingerprint coating being particularly easy to clean and visually appealing.
The following models have been selected based on their technical specifications and functional features.
Why we recommend this product: The Bosch KGP86AXB0N stands out with its exceptionally large net capacity of 621 litres and high degree of flexibility. The "Flex Cool & Freeze" function allows the freezer compartment to be converted into an additional refrigeration space when needed. Combined with its B-class energy efficiency and quiet operation, this appliance is designed for demanding, large households.
Pros:
Who it's for: This model is ideal for large families, shared flats, or anyone who regularly stores large quantities of food and needs maximum flexibility in space management.
Why we recommend this product: The Bosch KGN49AIBT combines very high energy efficiency (Class B) with a specialised freshness system. The VitaFresh XXL drawers, featuring a 0-degree zone for fish and meat and humidity control for fruit and vegetables, are designed to prolong the shelf life and nutrients of these foods. Its quiet operating noise of 35 dB(A) makes it an excellent choice for open-plan living areas.
Pros:
Who it's for: This appliance is aimed at health-conscious households that prioritise the optimal storage of fresh food while also preferring energy-efficient and quiet operation.
Why we recommend this product: The model from homeX offers a solid feature set, including Total No-Frost technology and a total net capacity of 253 litres, at an excellent value for money. With its C-class energy efficiency and a moderate operating noise of 39 dB(A), it is a functional and economical solution for small to medium-sized households. The black design gives it a modern look.
Pros:
Who it's for: Ideal for budget-conscious buyers, singles, couples, or as a second appliance. It offers modern core functions like No-Frost in a compact and stylish package.
If you haven't found the right appliance for your specific needs in this selection, you can find a wider range of models with different specifications in our main category.
Discover more Fridge-Freezers.
1. What does No Frost mean in a fridge-freezer? No Frost is a system that reduces humidity in the freezer compartment and circulates cold air. This prevents the formation of ice and frost on the interior walls and on the food itself. The main advantage is that manual defrosting of the freezer is no longer necessary, which saves time and ensures consistently high energy efficiency.
2. How quiet should a quiet fridge-freezer be? Appliances with a noise level of around 35 decibels (dB(A)) or less are considered quiet. This is roughly equivalent to the volume of a whisper. Models with values between 36 and 39 dB(A) are also low-noise and well-suited for most living situations, including open-plan kitchens. Pay attention to the noise emission class on the EU energy label; Class A or B indicates the quietest appliances.
3. What is the benefit of a 0-degree zone? A 0-degree zone (also known as a fresh zone or BioFresh compartment) is a special area in the refrigerator where the temperature is kept constantly near freezing point. Often, the humidity can also be regulated. In this environment, perishable foods such as fish, meat, sausages, as well as fruit and vegetables, stay fresh for significantly longer because the growth of microorganisms is slowed down. According to manufacturers, vitamins and nutrients are also preserved for longer.
Written by: Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer