A new fridge-freezer is a major purchase for any household. Perhaps your old appliance is too noisy, uses too much energy, or the constant need to defrost the freezer is a hassle. With so many features, sizes, and technical specifications, the search for the right model can quickly become overwhelming.
As a Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, my job is to provide you with clear guidance. This guide presents objective criteria for your purchasing decision and showcases a selection of models with specific features that cater to different needs. The goal is to help you make an informed choice for a durable and suitable appliance.
Before you decide on a model, a few basic considerations are helpful. The following points cover the most important aspects, from running costs to convenience features.
The energy efficiency class is one of the most critical factors, as a refrigerator operates around the clock. Since 2021, the new EU energy label has been in effect, with classes from A (very efficient) to G (less efficient). An appliance with an Energy Efficiency Class A or B rating may have a higher initial cost, but it can pay for itself over the years through significantly lower electricity consumption. Pay attention to the specified annual consumption in kilowatt-hours (kWh).
The operating noise level, measured in decibels (dB), is just as relevant. A quiet appliance is a major advantage, especially in open-plan kitchens. Models with ratings below 35 dB are considered very quiet and are barely noticeable.
The right size depends on your household size and shopping habits. A rule of thumb is to plan for about 100 litres of usable capacity for one person and an additional 50 litres for each additional person.
As a freestanding appliance, your new fridge-freezer offers maximum flexibility for placement in your kitchen.
Modern appliances offer a range of technologies that make daily life easier. The No Frost function has become almost standard. It uses special air circulation to prevent ice from forming in the freezer compartment, making manual defrosting a thing of the past.
Other useful features include:
Here is a selection of three freestanding fridge-freezers with No Frost technology, each suited to different requirements due to their specific features.
What sets this model apart: The Bauknecht KGDNF 203 A stands out for its high flexibility and outstanding energy efficiency. The Multi Zone function allows a compartment to be used as either a fridge or a freezer, depending on your needs. At just 32 dB, the appliance is extremely quiet and falls into Energy Efficiency Class A, which means a very low annual consumption of 112 kWh.
Advantages:
Who is this appliance for? Ideal for households that value top-tier energy efficiency and whisper-quiet operation. The flexible Multi Zone is perfect for users whose need for fridge and freezer space varies.
View details for the Bauknecht KGDNF 203 A
What sets this model apart: The Bosch Serie 8 fridge-freezer is a true master of space. As an XXL fridge-freezer, it offers an enormous 621 litres of total capacity. According to Bosch, the VitaFresh plus drawers extend the freshness of fruits and vegetables. The Flex Cool & Freeze system also offers the option to use the freezer compartment as additional cooling space when needed.
Advantages:
Who is this appliance for? Perfect for large families, shared homes, or anyone who needs to store a week's worth of bulk shopping. The combination of huge storage capacity and advanced freshness technologies makes it a solid choice for demanding households.
View details for the Bosch KGP86AXB0N
What sets this model apart: This side-by-side refrigerator from Samsung combines a modern design with extensive smart features. Thanks to Samsung SpaceMax technology, it offers more interior space within the same external dimensions. The integrated water dispenser provides refreshment at the touch of a button. As a smart home refrigerator with Wi-Fi, it can be fully integrated into the SmartThings ecosystem, including an AI Energy Mode to optimise consumption.
Advantages:
Who is this appliance for? An excellent choice for tech-savvy users who appreciate seamless smart home integration, the convenience of a water dispenser, and the spacious, well-organised layout of a side-by-side model.
View details for the Samsung RS57DG410EM9
The models presented here already cover a broad spectrum. However, if you haven't found the right appliance for your kitchen yet, or if you'd like to compare more models with different specifications, you can find a larger selection in our [freestanding refrigerators] category.
1. What does "No Frost" really mean in a fridge-freezer? "No Frost" is a technology that circulates cold, dry air within the freezer compartment. This air removes moisture from the interior that would otherwise settle as ice on the walls and on frozen goods. The main advantage is that you never have to manually defrost the freezer again. Additionally, the ice-free environment ensures a constant temperature and more efficient energy consumption.
2. How much electricity does a modern fridge-freezer with Energy Efficiency Class A consume? Electricity consumption depends on the size and features of the appliance. A model like the Bauknecht KGDNF 203 A presented here, with Energy Efficiency Class A, has a manufacturer-stated annual consumption of 112 kWh. Assuming an electricity price of 35 cents/kWh, the annual electricity costs would be approximately €39. Appliances in this class are designed for maximum savings over their entire lifespan.