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Refrigerator-Freezer Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Model

Purchasing a new refrigerator-freezer is a major decision for any household. With a vast array of models, technical terms, and energy efficiency classes, the selection process can quickly become overwhelming. This guide is here to help. It highlights the key criteria that will help you find an appliance precisely tailored to your needs in terms of size, features, and budget.

Key Criteria for Your Selection

To make an informed decision, several technical and practical aspects should be considered. The following points will help you objectively compare the features of different models.

Energy Efficiency Class: Save on Costs in the Long Run

Since March 2021, the new EU energy label has used a scale from A (very efficient) to G (less efficient). An energy-efficient refrigerator-freezer can save you a significant amount on electricity costs over its lifespan. Appliances in classes A or B are often more expensive to purchase but pay for themselves over time through lower energy consumption. Pay attention to the annual consumption in kilowatt-hours (kWh/annum) indicated on the label to directly compare operating costs.

Usable Capacity and Design: The Right Size for Your Household

The usable capacity, specified in litres, is a key criterion. As a rule of thumb for the refrigerator section:

  • 1- to 2-person household: approx. 100–150 litres
  • For each additional person: an extra 50 litres

A freestanding refrigerator-freezer offers maximum flexibility for placement in your kitchen. Standard models with the freezer at the bottom are common. For larger households or those with significant space requirements, it may be worthwhile to buy a side-by-side refrigerator. These models offer a very large capacity and often include additional features like water or ice dispensers.

Convenience Features and Noise Level

Modern appliances offer features that make daily life easier. A refrigerator with a No Frost freezer prevents the build-up of ice in the freezer compartment. This eliminates the need for manual defrosting and ensures the appliance runs efficiently at all times.

The noise level, measured in decibels (dB), is especially important in open-plan kitchens. A quiet appliance (under 40 dB) operates unobtrusively in the background. Those who value a quiet environment and a modern design can often find a suitable quiet black refrigerator in the product range.

Our Recommended Refrigerator-Freezers

Based on the criteria mentioned, we have compiled a selection of models with different specialisations.

LG Essence GBV3100AEP Refrigerator-Freezer (344L), Black

LG Essence GBV3100AEP Refrigerator-Freezer in Matte Black

Why This Model Stands Out

The LG Essence GBV3100AEP combines exceptional energy efficiency with advanced cooling technologies. With an Energy Efficiency Class of A, it is one of the most economical appliances on the market. Technologies like MultiAirflow and LINEARCooling ensure an even and stable temperature throughout the interior. The matte black design adds a modern aesthetic to any kitchen.

Advantages

  • Total Usable Capacity: 344 litres (234 L Refrigerator, 110 L Freezer)
  • Energy Efficiency Class: A
  • Technology: Total No Frost, MultiAirflow, LINEARCooling, Door Cooling+
  • Special Features: FRESH Balancer and FRESHConverter for optimal storage of fruit, vegetables, meat, or fish
  • Design: Elegant matte black finish

Who is this appliance for? This model is an excellent choice for households of 3 to 4 people who value maximum energy efficiency, modern freshness technologies, and a stylish design.

homeX Refrigerator-Freezer CFS1110-S (173L)

homeX Refrigerator-Freezer in Silver

Why This Model Stands Out

The homeX CFS1110-S is a compact and functional solution for smaller households. With a usable capacity of 173 litres and a width of under 50 cm, it fits well even in kitchens with limited space. Its Energy Efficiency Class of C and quiet operation at 40 dB make it a practical and economical choice.

Advantages

  • Total Usable Capacity: 173 litres (121 L Refrigerator, 52 L Freezer)
  • Energy Efficiency Class: C
  • Noise Level: 40 dB (Noise Emission Class C)
  • Flexibility: Height-adjustable feet and a reversible door hinge
  • Dimensions (WxDxH): 49.5 × 56 × 142.5 cm

Who is this appliance for? Ideal for singles, couples, or as a secondary appliance. This model appeals to users looking for a budget-friendly, space-saving, and reliable freestanding refrigerator-freezer.

LG GSXB90EVDD InstaView Side-by-Side Refrigerator (628L)

LG GSXB90EVDD InstaView Side-by-Side Refrigerator in Black

Why This Model Stands Out

This side-by-side model from LG is designed for maximum convenience and capacity. The InstaView feature allows you to see inside without opening the door, which reduces cold air loss. A standout feature is the Craft Ice Maker, which produces slow-melting spherical ice. With 628 litres of usable capacity, this appliance offers an enormous amount of space.

Advantages

  • Total Usable Capacity: 628 litres (407 L Refrigerator, 221 L Freezer)
  • Special Features: InstaView Door-in-Door, Craft Ice Maker, water and ice dispenser with UVnano technology to reduce bacteria
  • Technology: Total NoFrost, DoorCooling+, App control via LG ThinQ
  • Noise Level: Very quiet at 35 dB (Noise Emission Class B)

Who is this appliance for? Perfect for large families or tech-savvy users looking for a statement refrigerator with maximum storage and innovative premium features. Anyone planning to buy a side-by-side refrigerator will find this to be a feature-rich option.

Didn't Find the Right Model?

The selection of appliances is vast, and everyone's requirements are different. If you'd like to compare more models with different specifications, you can find a wider selection in our category.

Discover more refrigerator-freezers on Joybuy

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What does No Frost mean in a refrigerator-freezer?

No Frost is a technology that prevents the build-up of ice and frost in the freezer compartment. A circulating air system removes moisture from the interior. This eliminates the need for manual defrosting, keeps energy consumption consistently low, and prevents food from being damaged by ice crystals.

How much usable capacity does a refrigerator-freezer need?

As a guideline, allow for about 100 to 150 litres of refrigerator space for a one- to two-person household, plus an additional 50 litres for each extra person. The need for freezer space depends heavily on individual habits (e.g., bulk buying, freezing fresh food) and is typically between 50 and 80 litres per person.

Which energy efficiency class is recommended for a refrigerator-freezer?

Since the introduction of the new EU energy label in 2021, classes A and B are the most efficient. A Class A appliance consumes the least amount of electricity. However, depending on your budget and intended use, models in classes C or D can also offer good value for money, as they are often cheaper to purchase.


Written by: Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer