Buying compact refrigerators can be quite tricky, especially for newbies. Why? This is because the top manufacturers of general refrigerators are not often the best buys for these specialized kinds. As refrigerator sizes become smaller, it is a challenge to retain the freezing/chilling power of a full-sized one and still provide ample storage space. One of the best brands in the compact refrigerator market is Avanti. Although relatively unknown in the full-sized ones’ arena, Avanti compact refrigerators stand out because they can function almost as well as full-sized ones despite their smaller sizes.

whirlpool intellifresh refrigerator The smallest models being offered are called compact cubes – ideal for dormitories, game rooms, and small offices. Avanti models are well-known in the 1.7 cubic feet size, although 2.4 cubic feet ones are also available. A basic, but highly recommended model is the 1.7 cubic feet Superconductor Refrigerator (SHP 1700W). Avanti compact refrigerators use R134A refrigerants, but they don’t have compressors, making operation really quiet – almost no annoying loud humming sounds. Its thermostat is adjustable from 36ºF – 56ºF, and it has interior LED lighting for brighter yet less power-consuming lights. It also has a reversible door, slide out shelf, and an auto-defrost system for convenience – and for all these features, it’s reasonably priced at around $150. Priced slightly higher (around $160), one can also get the SHP1702SS model, featuring similar features – but made of more durable stainless steel. All said models weigh a light 27 pounds.

Avanti compact refrigerators also come in counterhigh models if you want more space at less the width. The RA316BT, priced at around $300, offers 3.1 cubic feet of storage, with one cubic foot dedicated to a true 0-degree freezer compartment. It also comes with a dairy bin, bottle bin, a can dispenser that can store up to 6 cans, 8 temperature modes for more precise thermal control, and an auto-defrost system. If you don’t really need a freezer, or a chiller will do for you, the Avanti RM3250W is also a great buy at a cheaper price of $250. If you want even more space, there is also a 4.5 cubic feet Avanti compact refrigerator available – the RM4589SS2, at a slightly wider dimension (20.25″) than the previous models. It comes in a sleek black exterior with a reversible stainless steel door. Its defrost system, though, is manual and it has no freezer compartment – reasonable though, for a relatively cheap price of $260.

There are also special models which can be used outdoors. These models are often designed in such a way that they can be free-standing (to stand alone) or built-in/undercounter (can be incorporated in cabinets and counters). This is possible because of the front-vent and flush back designs which make installation against walls easier. Avanti compact refrigerators of this type are thus more expensive because of these added value features. A suggested outdoor refrigerator model is the OBC32SS, which comes in a full stainless steel finish and has 3.2 cubic feet storage capacity. It also has casters to make it portable and includes a six foot power cord to make it suitable for outdoor use. The cheapest price currently offered is around $820. A similarly-designed outdoor refrigerator is the OBC33SSD. Its main difference from the OBC32SS is its lovely double pane glass door. It costs just slightly higher, with the lowest offer at $850.