Did you know that the average American opens their refrigerator door 30 times a day? That’s a lot of trips for snacks and midnight cravings! If you find yourself constantly rummaging through a cluttered fridge, it might be time to consider an undercounter refrigerator to streamline your food and drink storage.
Imagine hosting a backyard BBQ without constantly trekking back to the kitchen for drinks. With the right undercounter fridge, you could keep everything you need right at your fingertips—and look good doing it! Here’s a breakdown of the best options out there to help you stay cool and organized.
This dual-drawer beverage fridge is perfect for outdoor use, providing ample space and efficient cooling. Its stylish stainless steel design complements any patio or outdoor kitchen.
The Velieta 24 Inch Under Counter Dual Drawer Beverage Fridge offers an innovative solution for outdoor and indoor beverage storage. With a capacity of 4.9 cubic feet, it can hold up to 150 cans, making it perfect for parties or family gatherings.
Key Features:
Dual Drawer Design: The two drawers allow for organized storage of different beverages, making it easy to access your favorites.
Quiet Operation: Equipped with an upgraded compressor, this unit operates quietly, ensuring your outdoor space remains peaceful.
LED Display Panel: The intuitive LED panel allows you to monitor and adjust temperatures easily, keeping your drinks perfectly chilled.
Benefits:
The robust construction and weatherproof design make this fridge ideal for patios and outdoor kitchens, enhancing your entertaining capabilities.
With a stylish appearance and efficient cooling, it adds both functionality and elegance to your outdoor space.
Limitations:
While it provides ample storage, the height may limit its ability to store larger bottles upright, requiring some items to be stored horizontally.
Editor's Choice
2
Summit 5.5 Cu.Ft. Beverage Center
Best for Commercial Use
9/10
EXPERT SCORE
This Summit appliance excels in both performance and design, making it a top choice for commercial settings. Its spacious interior and adjustable shelves increase storage flexibility.
The Summit Appliance SCR600BGLBISH is a top-tier undercounter beverage center designed for both residential and commercial use. With a capacity of 5.5 cubic feet, it provides ample space for storing beverages, making it ideal for restaurants, bars, or home entertainment areas.
Key Features:
Glass Door: The tempered glass door allows for easy visibility of your items while adding a sleek touch to your decor.
Adjustable Glass Shelves: Four adjustable shelves provide flexibility in storage, accommodating various bottle sizes effortlessly.
Lock and Security Features: A factory-installed lock enhances security, making it perfect for commercial use where access needs to be restricted.
Benefits:
With a low sound level of just 33.5 dB, this beverage center operates quietly, making it suitable for any environment.
The fan-forced cooling system ensures consistent temperatures throughout the interior, preventing uneven cooling and spoilage.
Limitations:
Its professional-grade features come at a higher price point, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
Given its weight, installation may require assistance or professional help.
Best for Large Capacity
3
Kalamera 24" Beverage Fridge
Spacious and Efficient Beverage Cooler
8.7/10
EXPERT SCORE
The Kalamera fridge stands out for its impressive can capacity and adjustable shelving, making it perfect for beverage enthusiasts. Its reliable cooling system ensures optimal drink temperatures.
The Kalamera 24 Inch Under Counter Beverage Fridge is a robust option for anyone looking to store a large number of beverages. With a capacity to hold up to 164 cans, it is perfect for parties, gatherings, or everyday use.
Key Features:
Adjustable Shelving: The removable shelves allow for customization based on your storage needs, accommodating various beverage sizes and shapes.
Advanced Cooling System: The high-quality compressor and circulation fan maintain a consistent temperature, enhancing the chilling process.
Smart Control Panel: The intuitive control system allows you to set the temperature range between 38°F to 50°F, ensuring your drinks are always at the ideal temperature.
Benefits:
The sleek stainless-steel design adds a modern touch to any kitchen or bar area, elevating your space's aesthetic.
Its quiet operation keeps noise levels down, making it suitable for use in entertainment areas or home theaters.
Limitations:
Some users have found the setup process complicated, which could deter less tech-savvy individuals.
While it offers good cooling capabilities, a few users wish it could reach lower temperatures for specific beverages.
Best Value
4
Danby 4.4 Cu.Ft. Mini Fridge
Compact and Versatile Mini Fridge
8.5/10
EXPERT SCORE
The Danby Diplomat mini fridge strikes a balance between size and functionality, making it ideal for small spaces. With ample storage options and a sleek design, it offers great value for money.
The Danby DCR044B1SLM-6 is the perfect solution for those needing a compact refrigerator for small spaces like dorms, offices, or basements. With a capacity of 4.4 cubic feet, it provides enough room for drinks and snacks while maintaining a stylish stainless-steel exterior that complements any decor.
Key Features:
Integrated Door Shelving: This mini fridge comes with adjustable door shelving that can accommodate tall bottles, making it perfect for beverages.
Full Width Chiller Section: It includes a chiller section that allows you to keep your beverages extra cold, although it may not be large enough for substantial ice storage.
Easy to Operate: A mechanical thermostat makes it simple to set and maintain the desired temperature.
Benefits:
The compact design allows for versatile placement, whether freestanding in a room or tucked under a counter.
Energy-efficient operation helps save on electricity bills, contributing to its appeal as an environmentally friendly choice.
Limitations:
Some users have reported difficulties with the door sticking, which can detract from its ease of use.
The manual defrost feature may be inconvenient for users expecting a more automated solution.
Best for High Capacity
5
COSTWAY Beverage Refrigerator
Powerful Cooling with Great Capacity
8.4/10
EXPERT SCORE
The COSTWAY Beverage Refrigerator delivers impressive cooling performance in a stylish design. With a capacity of 190 cans, it's perfect for entertaining or day-to-day use.
The COSTWAY 10383US-SL-CYPF Beverage Refrigerator is an excellent choice for those in need of a high-capacity beverage cooling solution. With a capacity of 4.9 cubic feet, it can accommodate up to 190 standard cans, making it ideal for parties or family gatherings.
Key Features:
Smart Control Panel: The intuitive panel allows easy temperature adjustment, with a range from 37°F to 65°F, ensuring your beverages are stored just right.
3-Layered Stainless Steel Door: Unlike traditional glass doors, this design prevents condensation and ensures better insulation for your drinks.
Flexible Installation: Its compact dimensions make it suitable for built-in or freestanding installation, providing versatility for different spaces.
Benefits:
The powerful cooling system ensures fast and even cooling, accommodating various beverage types without compromising on performance.
Quiet operation makes it suitable for use in living areas, ensuring your entertainment space remains serene.
Limitations:
Some users have experienced issues with the control panel, requiring careful attention to operate effectively.
Its size may not be suitable for very compact spaces, limiting installation options.
Most Reliable
6
Summit Peak24 Undercounter Fridge
Quality Build with Ample Capacity
8/10
EXPERT SCORE
The Summit Peak24 is known for its reliability and spacious 5.5 cu.ft. capacity, making it ideal for various storage needs. Its automatic defrost and energy efficiency make it a user-friendly choice.
The Summit 24" Refrigerator, Peak24 is designed with quality and efficiency in mind. This refrigerator showcases a generous 5.5 cubic feet of storage capacity, allowing you to store a variety of items conveniently.
Key Features:
European Design: This model is built to European standards, ensuring durability and reliable performance over the years.
Fully Finished Cabinet: The freestanding design allows it to fit seamlessly into any space, making it versatile for different settings.
Cold Wall Design: The hidden evaporator maximizes interior space while providing consistent cooling.
Benefits:
The adjustable glass shelves and clear crisper drawer make organizing your food easy and efficient, ensuring everything is stored at optimal conditions.
With its energy-efficient operation, it helps reduce energy costs, making it a smart choice for environmentally conscious users.
Limitations:
Some users have reported slight noise, which may not be ideal for quiet environments.
The limited color options may not suit every aesthetic preference.
Final Thoughts
For those who prioritize outdoor entertaining, the Velieta 24" Dual Drawer Fridge is your best bet. Its stylish design and efficient cooling make it ideal for patios. If you're in the commercial sector or need a fridge with top-notch performance, the Summit 5.5 Cu.Ft. Beverage Center stands out with its spacious interior and versatility. Whether it's for home or a business, these fridges promise to keep your beverages chilled and your guests happy.
Guide to Choosing the Right Undercounter Refrigerator
When it comes to selecting the perfect undercounter refrigerator, consider the following factors to ensure you make a well-informed choice:
1. Size and Capacity
Measure your available space. Undercounter refrigerators typically fit into standard cabinetry, but dimensions can vary. Ensure you have enough clearance for ventilation as well.
Check the capacity in cubic feet. A fridge with 5.5 cu.ft. is generally sufficient for most households, while larger capacities are ideal for entertaining or commercial use.
2. Type of Refrigerator
Decide if you want a beverage center, dual drawer, or a mini fridge. Beverage centers are optimized for drinks, while dual drawers can keep your snacks and beverages organized.
If aesthetics matter, look for stylish finishes such as stainless steel or glass doors.
3. Cooling Performance
Ensure the refrigerator has a reliable cooling system. Look for features like adjustable shelves and temperature control to customize your storage needs.
Energy efficiency ratings can help you choose a fridge that saves you money on energy bills while keeping your drinks at the perfect temperature.
4. Additional Features
Some undercounter refrigerators come with built-in locks, LED lighting, and automatic defrost features. Consider which extras will enhance your experience and convenience.
Look for models with adjustable temperature settings for different types of beverages or food items.
5. Budget
Set a budget before you start shopping. There are excellent options available at various price points. Remember, sometimes investing a little more upfront can save you money in the long run with energy-efficient models.
FAQs
What is the average size of undercounter refrigerators?
Most undercounter refrigerators range from 24 to 30 inches wide and about 34 to 36 inches high, making them a great fit for standard kitchen layouts.
Can I use an undercounter refrigerator for food storage?
Absolutely! Many undercounter fridges are designed to store food, but check the specifications as some are optimized specifically for beverages.
Are undercounter refrigerators energy-efficient?
Many modern undercounter refrigerators are designed with energy efficiency in mind, often featuring energy-saving modes and LED lighting.
How noisy are undercounter refrigerators?
Noise levels can vary, but most undercounter fridges operate at around 40-50 decibels, which is comparable to a quiet conversation.
Do I need to do any special installation for an undercounter refrigerator?
Most undercounter refrigerators can be simply plugged in, but some may need proper ventilation or specific electrical requirements.
Sarah Lin has spent over a decade testing, reviewing, and writing about kitchen and home appliances. With a background in consumer electronics and a passion for functional design, she’s become a go-to expert on refrigerators, dishwashers, and other essential household gear. At ExpertsRecommend.org, Sarah brings a hands-on, no-nonsense approach to product testing—helping readers cut through the marketing and find appliances that actually deliver.
19 Comments
I was really hoping to get the Kalamera fridge for my man cave, but I’m a bit put off by the price. Is it really worth it? I need something spacious but don’t want to break the bank. Any suggestions?
The Kalamera is indeed spacious, and many users love it for that reason! If you’re looking for something more budget-friendly, maybe check out the Danby mini fridge—still a good option!
Just got my Summit 24″ Refrigerator, and I love how spacious it is! I was skeptical at first because of the energy efficiency claims, but my energy bill seems lower! 😄 Has anyone had it for a long time? Any issues to watch out for?
The Summit Appliance SCR600BGLBISH is hands down the best for commercial use. I run a small café, and this fridge has been reliable. The space inside is so well organized! The only downside is it takes a bit longer to cool down upon first use. Anyone else notice this?
I recently got the 24 Inch Under Counter Dual Drawer Beverage Fridge for my patio, and I’m absolutely in love! 😍 It’s been a game changer for outdoor gatherings. Keeps everything cold and the design is super sleek. However, I wish it had a built-in ice maker. Has anyone else experienced this model? Any tips for maintenance?
Thanks for sharing your experience, Emily! The dual drawers really are a nice feature for outdoor events. Maintenance is pretty straightforward—just keep it clean and ensure proper ventilation.
I have the same fridge! Totally agree about the ice maker though. I just use a separate ice bucket, and it works fine, but it would be nice to have it built-in.
I bought the COSTWAY Beverage Refrigerator for my home bar and honestly, I’m not impressed. It looks good, but the cooling isn’t as strong as expected. I was expecting it to be ‘powerful’ as advertised. Anyone else feeling this way?
I was really hoping to get the Kalamera fridge for my man cave, but I’m a bit put off by the price. Is it really worth it? I need something spacious but don’t want to break the bank. Any suggestions?
I think it’s worth it! I’ve had mine for a year, and it’s been fantastic! Holds all my drinks perfectly.
I’d say it depends on how often you entertain. If it’s a regular thing, the Kalamera is a solid investment!
The Kalamera is indeed spacious, and many users love it for that reason! If you’re looking for something more budget-friendly, maybe check out the Danby mini fridge—still a good option!
Just got my Summit 24″ Refrigerator, and I love how spacious it is! I was skeptical at first because of the energy efficiency claims, but my energy bill seems lower! 😄 Has anyone had it for a long time? Any issues to watch out for?
I’ve had mine for over two years without any issues! Just keep an eye on the seals and make sure they’re clean.
I’ve heard good things about its durability! Glad to hear the energy savings are real!
Nice to hear you’re happy with it, Chris! Regular maintenance like cleaning the coils can help keep it running efficiently.
The Summit Appliance SCR600BGLBISH is hands down the best for commercial use. I run a small café, and this fridge has been reliable. The space inside is so well organized! The only downside is it takes a bit longer to cool down upon first use. Anyone else notice this?
I’ve had the same issue! I let it run for a few hours before stocking it up, just to be safe.
Great to hear it’s working well for you, Mark! It does take some time to cool initially, especially if it’s filled with room-temperature items.
I recently got the 24 Inch Under Counter Dual Drawer Beverage Fridge for my patio, and I’m absolutely in love! 😍 It’s been a game changer for outdoor gatherings. Keeps everything cold and the design is super sleek. However, I wish it had a built-in ice maker. Has anyone else experienced this model? Any tips for maintenance?
Thanks for sharing your experience, Emily! The dual drawers really are a nice feature for outdoor events. Maintenance is pretty straightforward—just keep it clean and ensure proper ventilation.
Glad to hear you’re enjoying it! I’ve been considering this fridge for my new house. How loud is it when it’s running?
I have the same fridge! Totally agree about the ice maker though. I just use a separate ice bucket, and it works fine, but it would be nice to have it built-in.
I bought the COSTWAY Beverage Refrigerator for my home bar and honestly, I’m not impressed. It looks good, but the cooling isn’t as strong as expected. I was expecting it to be ‘powerful’ as advertised. Anyone else feeling this way?
I had a similar issue at first, but it worked better after I adjusted the temperature settings. Maybe give that a try!
I wonder if there’s a defect? Mine works great, cools everything perfectly!
Sorry to hear about your experience, Sarah! Cooling issues can sometimes be due to the positioning of the fridge. Make sure it’s well-ventilated.