September 2008
Types
The 15 models we tested fall into three groups: tall, which account for roughly half of all sales; and medium and small which
split the rest of the market.
Tall compact refrigerators. These models are the largest compacts and the most practical overall. Those we tested offer a claimed storage space of 3.3 to 4.6 cubic feet and weigh 51 to 66 pounds. Prices are $140 to $199.
Medium-sized compact refrigerators. These weigh a bit less than tall models (41 to 52 pounds) and are a bit easier to carry. But with capacities below 3 cubic feet, they're a step down in practicality yet cost nearly as much—$120 to $130.
Small compact refrigerators. These typically cost the least—$70 to $100—and are nicknamed cubes, which they resemble. At just 22 to 36 pounds for the ones we tested, they're also the lightest compact refrigerators. But don't let their low prices tempt you: Cubes are bare-bones boxes with few conveniences and less than 2 cubic feet of space, offering the least value. We suggest considering one only if nothing larger fits your space or if their lighter weight is critical.
Tall compact refrigerators. These models are the largest compacts and the most practical overall. Those we tested offer a claimed storage space of 3.3 to 4.6 cubic feet and weigh 51 to 66 pounds. Prices are $140 to $199.
Medium-sized compact refrigerators. These weigh a bit less than tall models (41 to 52 pounds) and are a bit easier to carry. But with capacities below 3 cubic feet, they're a step down in practicality yet cost nearly as much—$120 to $130.
Small compact refrigerators. These typically cost the least—$70 to $100—and are nicknamed cubes, which they resemble. At just 22 to 36 pounds for the ones we tested, they're also the lightest compact refrigerators. But don't let their low prices tempt you: Cubes are bare-bones boxes with few conveniences and less than 2 cubic feet of space, offering the least value. We suggest considering one only if nothing larger fits your space or if their lighter weight is critical.
