The best small side by side refrigerators offer space-saving solutions for compact kitchens without sacrificing essential features. They are perfect for apartment dwellers, small families, or anyone looking to maximize storage in a limited footprint. When choosing, consider factors like internal capacity, energy efficiency ratings, ice maker type, and the durability of shelving and drawers.
A poorly chosen unit can lead to wasted energy, insufficient storage, or premature component failure, diminishing your kitchen’s functionality. To help you navigate the options and find the ideal fit for your home, we’ve compiled our top 10 picks for the best small side by side refrigerators and key features to look for in 2026.
The best small side by side refrigerators offer compact convenience with distinct upper and lower compartments for organization. Models like the Midea WHD-113FSS1 provide a 3.1 cu.ft capacity with a separate freezer section, ideal for personal use or small spaces.
Best Small Side By Side Refrigerators at a Glance
| Image | Product | Buy |
|---|---|---|
Best Pick 1  | Midea WHS-65LB1 Mini Fridge, 1.6 Cu.ft Energy Star Certified Mini Best for: Tiny spaces | Check Price |
Best Pick 2  | Frigidaire EFR840-Cream EFR840 Retro Mini Fridge with Freezer & Side Best for: Retro kitchens | Check Price |
Best Pick 3  | Frigidaire Retro Compact Fridge with Chiller, 3.2 cu ft Countertop Best for: Small kitchens | Check Price |
Best Pick 4  | Midea MERM33S1AST Mini Fridge, 3.3 Cu.ft Compact Fridge with Internal Best for: Minimalist living | Check Price |
Best Pick 5  | FRIGIDAIRE Black Retro Mini Refrigerator-Energy Saving-Adjustable Thermostat Control-Side Mounted Bottle Best for: Retro apartments | Check Price |
How We Picked
To identify the best small side by side refrigerators, we began by evaluating key buyer concerns: build quality, real-world performance, safety, durability, and standout features. We prioritized compact designs like the Midea WHS-65LB1 and Midea MERM33S1AST that offer generous capacity for their footprint. Models with retro charm, such as several Frigidaire options, were assessed for their aesthetic appeal alongside functionality.
We ruled out anything with questionable durability or a lack of essential features like adjustable thermostats. The Frigidaire EFR840 and similar Frigidaire retro models impressed with their blend of style and practical cooling, making them strong contenders.
What Most Buyers Get Wrong
Door Swing Clearance is Key
When looking at small side-by-side refrigerators, always check the door swing. The Midea WHS-65LB1 and Frigidaire EFR323, for example, have doors that need adequate space to open fully. Measure your intended spot, considering not just the width and depth, but also how much room each door requires to pivot.
This is crucial in tight kitchens or small rooms where every inch counts for accessibility and safe operation.
Internal Layout for Dual Zones
A true side-by-side offers distinct refrigerator and freezer compartments. Pay close attention to the internal division in models like the Midea WHD-113FSS1. While compact, the capacity split between the freezer (0.92 cu.ft) and fridge (2.16 cu.ft) matters for your storage needs.
Ensure the shelving and bin configuration in both sections suits the types of items you plan to store, allowing for organized access to both your frozen goods and fresh perishables.
1. Midea WHS-65LB1 Mini Fridge, 1.6 Cu.ft Energy Star Certified Mini
Best for: Compact beverage chiller for small spaces.
With 1.6 cu.ft of refrigerator capacity, this Midea mini fridge offers ample space to keep your favorite beverages and snacks perfectly chilled, all within its compact 18.6″ x 17.7″ x 19.4″ frame. Its Energy Star certification means efficient operation and lower energy bills.
This compressor-cooled unit features a reciprocating compressor and automatic defrost, ensuring consistent cooling performance. The internal chiller box provides an extra area for colder storage, and the mechanical adjustable thermostat lets you set temperatures precisely between 28.4℉ and 35.6℉ (-2℃ to 2℃).
Pros
- 1.6 cu.ft capacity for beverages and snacks
- Energy Star Certified for efficiency
- Adjustable thermostat for precise temperature control
- Internal chiller box for extra cooling
Cons
- Only one main shelf, limiting organization options
Ideal for dorm rooms, apartments, or offices where space is at a premium, this Midea fridge ensures your drinks and snacks stay refreshingly cold without taking up too much room.
2. Frigidaire EFR840-Cream EFR840 Retro Mini Fridge with Freezer & Side
Best for: Stylish retro fridge for personal spaces.
This Frigidaire EFR840-Cream retro mini fridge brings nostalgic style to any room with its eye-catching design and a generous 3.2 cu. ft. capacity. It’s perfectly sized for bedrooms, offices, or dorms, providing convenient access to your chilled essentials.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, this two-door model offers two glass shelves for organized storage and two door shelves, including one specifically designed for bottles. The manual defrost system ensures consistent temperature maintenance, while the 111 Volts power requirement makes it suitable for most standard outlets.
Pros
- 3.2 cu. ft. capacity for ample storage
- Retro design adds vintage charm
- Two doors for separate fridge and freezer access
- Adjustable temperature control for ideal cooling
Cons
- Manual defrost requires occasional upkeep
For those seeking a blend of style and functionality in a compact footprint, this Frigidaire retro fridge is an excellent choice for keeping drinks and snacks cool and accessible.
3. Frigidaire Retro Compact Fridge with Chiller, 3.2 cu ft Countertop
Best for: Countertop retro fridge with flush-back design.
Boasting a 3.2 cu. ft. capacity, this Frigidaire retro compact fridge provides ample storage for beverages and snacks, fitting seamlessly into smaller spaces thanks to its space-saving flush back design. Its stylish retro exterior adds a touch of charm to any countertop.
This one-door unit features two glass shelves and four door shelves, offering versatile organization for various items. The reciprocating or rotary vane compressor ensures efficient cooling, and the adjustable temperature control allows you to maintain optimal freshness for your contents. The manual defrost system keeps upkeep straightforward.
Pros
- 3.2 cu. ft. capacity for substantial storage
- Flush-back design for compact placement
- Four door shelves for flexible organization
- Adjustable temperature control for ideal freshness
Cons
- Manual defrost requires manual intervention
This Frigidaire retro fridge is ideal for anyone looking to add a stylish and functional cooling solution to their office, dorm room, or even a small kitchen area without sacrificing significant counter space.
4. Midea MERM33S1AST Mini Fridge, 3.3 Cu.ft Compact Fridge with Internal
Best for: Compact fridge with dedicated bottle storage.
The Midea MERM33S1AST compact fridge offers 3.3 cu. ft. of cooling capacity within its 18.6″ x 17.7″ x 33.9″ dimensions, making it an excellent choice for maximizing storage in tight spaces like apartments or dorms. Its dedicated 2L bottle rack enhances its practicality.
This freezer-less model features three wire shelves and three door shelves, providing flexible organization for a variety of items. The mechanical adjustable thermostat allows for temperatures between 33.8℉ and 50.0℉ (1℃ to 10℃), and the reversible door hinge offers adaptable placement options, further enhancing its suitability for diverse layouts.
Pros
- 3.3 cu. ft. capacity for a good amount of food
- Dedicated 2L bottle rack
- Three shelves and three door shelves for organization
- Reversible door for flexible placement
Cons
- Lacks a dedicated freezer compartment
Perfect for individuals or small households needing efficient refrigeration without a freezer, this Midea compact fridge excels in keeping items cool and accessible in confined living or working areas.
5. FRIGIDAIRE Black Retro Mini Refrigerator-Energy Saving-Adjustable Thermostat Control-Side Mounted Bottle
Best for: Compact retro fridge for personal cooling needs.
With a 1.6 cu. ft. capacity, this FRIGIDAIRE Black Retro Mini Refrigerator is perfectly sized for keeping beverages, snacks, or skincare items cool in your bedroom, office, or dorm. Its stylish retro design adds a touch of vintage flair to any personal space.
This single-door unit features two glass shelves and two door shelves, including a side-mounted bottle rack, offering versatile storage options. The adjustable thermostat allows for precise temperature control, and the manual defrost system ensures its continued efficiency. The reversible door adds flexibility for placement in different room layouts.
Pros
- 1.6 cu. ft. capacity for personal use
- Retro styling for aesthetic appeal
- Side-mounted bottle rack
- Adjustable thermostat for flexible cooling
Cons
- Manual defrost is required
This compact retro fridge is a stylish and functional addition to any small personal space, ideal for keeping essential items chilled and readily available right where you need them.
6. Frigidaire, 3.1 Cu. Ft. 2 Door Retro Series Compact Refrigerator,
Best for: Retro two-door fridge for apartments and dorms.
This Frigidaire 3.1 Cu. Ft. 2 Door Retro Series Compact Refrigerator provides ample 3.2 cu. ft. storage, ensuring you have plenty of space for drinks and snacks. Its distinct retro charm makes it a stylish addition to smaller living spaces like apartments or dorm rooms.
Featuring a freezer-on-top configuration, this compact upright fridge offers two shelves and two door shelves for organized storage of both frozen goods and fresh items. The manual defrost system is straightforward to manage, and the unit operates quietly, making it suitable for shared living environments.
Pros
- 3.2 cu. ft. ample storage capacity
- Retro two-door design
- Freezer-on-top compartment
- Low noise operation
Cons
- Manual defrost requires routine attention
Ideal for students or individuals in compact apartments, this retro-styled Frigidaire refrigerator offers a good balance of storage, style, and functionality for everyday cooling needs.
7. Midea WHD-113FSS1 Double Door Mini Fridge with Freezer for Bedroom
Best for: Double-door mini fridge with separate freezer.
The Midea WHD-113FSS1 Double Door Mini Fridge offers a combined 3.1 cu. ft. capacity, with a dedicated 0.92 cu. ft. freezer and a 2.16 cu. ft. refrigerator section. Its dimensions of 18.5″ x 19.37″ x 32.95″ make it a perfect fit for garages, apartments, or dorms.
This stand-alone unit features two wire shelves and one door shelf, providing organized storage for both refrigerated and frozen items. The mechanical adjustable thermostat allows precise temperature control, ensuring optimal freshness. With its manual defrost system, upkeep is kept user-friendly.
Pros
- 3.1 cu. ft. total capacity with separate freezer
- Dedicated freezer compartment (0.92 cu. ft.)
- Adjustable shelves for flexible storage
- Reversible door for adaptable placement
Cons
- Only one door shelf in the refrigerator section
This Midea double-door mini fridge is particularly suited for those who need a compact unit with both refrigeration and freezing capabilities, offering practical storage for small households or shared living spaces.
8. Frigidaire Retro Mini Personal Fridge Cooler, Holds up to 9
Best for: Compact thermoelectric cooler for personal drinks.
This Frigidaire Retro Mini Personal Fridge Cooler, with a 6L capacity, is designed to hold up to 9 cans, making it ideal for chilling beverages, skincare, or snacks in your personal space like a dorm room or office desk. Its thermoelectric cooling method ensures quiet operation.
Operating on 110 Volts, this portable cooler features one wire shelf for basic organization. While it doesn’t have adjustable temperature control, its primary function is to keep contents cool. The right-hinged door is fixed, and the lock type can vary, offering security options.
Pros
- Compact 6L capacity for personal use
- Holds up to 9 beverage cans
- Thermoelectric cooling for quiet operation
- Portable design for easy relocation
Cons
- No adjustable temperature control
This Frigidaire cooler is perfect for keeping a small number of drinks or sensitive items cool in a dorm, office, or even as a dedicated skincare fridge, offering convenient personal chilling.
9. Frigidaire, 1.6 Cu. Ft. Retro Series Compact Refrigerator, Built-In Side
Best for: Retro fridge with reversible door for flexible placement.
This Frigidaire 1.6 Cu. Ft. Retro Series Compact Refrigerator offers flexible placement options with its reversible door, allowing it to fit seamlessly into various room layouts. Its compact size and retro design make it a charming addition to bedrooms, offices, or dorm rooms.
The unit features one wire shelf and two door shelves, providing sufficient space for beverages and snacks, with a capacity of 1.6 cu. ft. Manual defrost ensures straightforward maintenance, and the adjustable temperature control lets you set the ideal cooling level. Its upright, compact form factor is designed for efficient space utilization.
Pros
- 1.6 cu. ft. capacity for personal needs
- Reversible door for adaptable placement
- Retro styling for aesthetic appeal
- Adjustable temperature control
Cons
- Manual defrost requires user attention
Ideal for small personal spaces needing a touch of retro style and convenient refrigeration, this Frigidaire compact fridge is a great option for keeping essentials chilled and accessible.
10. Frigidaire EFR323 3.2 cu ft Compact Fridge, Mini Refrigerator, Stainless
Best for: Modern compact fridge with freezer and ample shelving.
The Frigidaire EFR323 compact fridge provides a 3.2 cu. ft. capacity with a modern aesthetic, making it a stylish and functional addition to bedrooms, offices, or dorm rooms. Its space-saving flush back design ensures it fits neatly into smaller living areas.
This front-door unit features a freezer-on-top compartment and includes two full-width interior shelves and two full-width door shelves, offering versatile storage solutions, including dedicated dispense-a-can storage. The adjustable leveling legs ensure stability, and the manual defrost system simplifies maintenance.
Pros
- 3.2 cu. ft. capacity for diverse storage
- Freezer-on-top compartment
- Two full-width interior and door shelves
- Dispense-a-can storage for convenience
Cons
- Manual defrost requires periodic upkeep
This Frigidaire compact fridge is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a modern, functional, and space-efficient cooling solution with both refrigerator and freezer compartments for everyday use.
Capacity Trade-Offs in Small Fridges
When evaluating the best small side by side refrigerators, a singular, often overlooked, factor dictates the true utility: the explicit cubic footage allocated to the freezer versus the refrigerator compartment. While aesthetics like the retro charm of the Frigidaire EFR840-Cream or the sleek modern look of the Frigidaire EFR323 3.2 cu ft Compact Fridge appeal, these are secondary to the practical division of chilled space.
The Midea WHS-65LB1 Mini Fridge, with its mere 1.6 cu.ft capacity, offers almost no meaningful freezer space, making it suitable only for beverages or very small snack items. Conversely, the Midea WHD-113FSS1 Double Door Mini Fridge offers a more balanced split at 3.1 cu.ft total, with a dedicated 0.92 cu.ft freezer alongside a 2.16 cu.ft refrigerator. This distinction is critical for anyone intending to store frozen goods beyond a few ice cube trays.
Many buyers fixate on the exterior dimensions or the purported compact nature without scrutinizing this internal division. A unit like the Frigidaire Retro Compact Fridge with Chiller, 3.2 cu ft Countertop, while offering a respectable total volume, may still dedicate a disproportionately small amount to the freezer. The Frigidaire, 3.1 Cu.
Ft. 2 Door Retro Series Compact Refrigerator, and its sibling the FRIGIDAIRE Black Retro Mini Refrigerator-Energy Saving-Adjustable Thermostat Control-Side Mounted Bottle, also fall into this category where their freezer capacity is often minimal, sometimes almost an afterthought.
The Midea MERM351AST Mini Fridge, 3.3 Cu.ft Compact Fridge with Internal, clarifies this need by explicitly stating its capacity in a way that allows direct comparison. The key is to ask not just what the total volume is, but precisely how that volume is segmented. A small side-by-side refrigerator intended for anything beyond chilling drinks demands a freezer compartment large enough for at least a small collection of frozen meals or meats, typically requiring at least 0.5 to 1.0 cu.ft of dedicated frozen storage.
For those prioritizing actual frozen food storage in a compact footprint, the Midea WHD-113FSS1 Double Door Mini Fridge is the clearer choice among the options, providing a tangible freezer section rather than just a chiller or minimal ice-making capability.
What to Look For in Best Small Side By Side Refrigerators
Capacity and storage needs
For a small side-by-side, prioritize active cubic footage that directly supports your household’s consumption patterns. If you regularly stock a week’s worth of groceries for two, aim for a refrigerator compartment around 10-13 cubic feet and a freezer around 8-9 cubic feet. Disregard models that offer significantly more freezer space than you’ll use, as this often eats into essential refrigerated storage.
Choose a refrigerator with a refrigerator-to-freezer ratio that aligns with your primary use case to ensure you have sufficient chilled space without wasting freezer capacity. The best small side-by-side for most couples has approximately 10.5 cu.
ft. of refrigerator and 8.5 cu. ft.
of freezer space.
Dimensions and fit
Measure your intended kitchen alcove meticulously, accounting for door swing clearance and ventilation gaps. A width between 30 and 33 inches is standard for compact side-by-sides. Ensure frame-to-frame measurements are precise, as even an inch too wide will prevent installation.
Prioritize models with a standard depth of 28-32 inches to avoid an obtrusive profile that juts out beyond your countertops. Always select a refrigerator whose overall dimensions precisely match your available space, allowing for at least an inch of clearance on all sides for proper airflow.
The ideal fit is a refrigerator with 30 inches of width and 30 inches of depth.
Configuration and features
Examine the interior layout for versatile storage solutions tailored to your habits. Look for models featuring humidity-controlled crisper drawers, which preserve produce freshness significantly better than standard drawers. Adjustable tempered glass shelves offer flexibility for accommodating various food heights, far superior to fixed wire shelving which can be impractical.
Select door bin configurations that suit your needs, such as deeper bins for gallon jugs or specialized compartments for smaller items. For ice, internal ice makers are a refined choice, maximizing door space compared to bulkier indoor units.
The best small side-by-side includes adjustable glass shelves and humidity-controlled crispers.
Energy efficiency
Opt for a refrigerator bearing the ENERGY STAR certification; this designation guarantees superior energy efficiency, translating to lower electricity bills. Pay close attention to the estimated annual energy consumption, expressed in kilowatt-hours (kWh). Models with a lower kWh rating consume less power, making them more economical and environmentally conscious over their lifespan.
A good small side-by-side will consume 450-550 kWh annually. Prioritize refrigerators with the lowest kWh rating within your desired size and feature set to maximize long-term savings and reduce your carbon footprint.
Purchase an ENERGY STAR certified model with the lowest kWh rating.
Which Should You Choose?
- If you need to maximize storage in a truly tiny space, look for models around 1.6 cu. ft.
- If you want a dedicated freezer compartment for ice or frozen snacks, seek out “double door” or “mini fridge with freezer” designs.
- If prioritizing a specific aesthetic and a little more room, consider retro-styled models around 3.2 cu. ft.
- If you need a slim profile that can fit into tight nooks, pay attention to the width and depth dimensions.
Quick Best Small Side By Side Refrigerators Buying Checklist
- Measure Your Space Accurately measure the width, height, and depth of your intended refrigerator spot, including door swing clearance.
- Assess Storage Needs Determine how much fresh food and frozen goods you typically store to match cubic footage requirements.
- Consider Door Swing Ensure doors can open fully without obstruction, especially if placed near walls or cabinets.
- Check Interior Layout Evaluate shelf adjustability, door bin space, and drawer functionality for your organization style.
- Look for Energy Star Opt for an ENERGY STAR certified model to save on energy bills and reduce environmental impact.
- Review Noise Levels If placed in an open-concept living area, consider models known for quiet operation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Typical Dimensions For Small Side By Side Refrigerators?
Small side-by-side refrigerators generally range from 30 to 33 inches in width, standing between 65 and 70 inches in height. Depth is typically 28 to 32 inches, not including handles, ensuring a compact fit for tighter kitchen spaces.
How Much Refrigerator And Freezer Space Can I Expect In These Models?
These compact units offer a combined capacity typically between 18 and 22 cubic feet. You can expect around 10 to 13 cubic feet for the refrigerator and 8 to 9 cubic feet dedicated to the freezer section.
Are Adjustable Shelves Common In Small Side By Side Refrigerators?
Yes, adjustable shelves are a common and highly useful feature in small side-by-side refrigerators. This allows for flexible storage, enabling you to reconfigure the interior space to accommodate taller items or larger containers as needed.
What Role Do Crisper Drawers Play In These Refrigerators?
Crisper drawers with humidity control are vital for maintaining the freshness of fruits and vegetables in small side-by-side refrigerators. They allow you to adjust moisture levels to prevent produce from wilting or becoming too soggy.
Is Energy Star Certification Important For Small Refrigerators?
Yes, seeking ENERGY STAR certification for small side-by-side refrigerators is beneficial for both cost savings and environmental impact. Certified models are designed to be more energy-efficient, leading to lower electricity bills over time.
Final Words
Choosing the best small side by side refrigerators offers a fantastic blend of convenience and space efficiency for any kitchen. These models provide organized access to both fresh and frozen foods within a compact footprint. By carefully considering your needs, you can find a unit that perfectly fits your lifestyle and culinary habits.