In the world of craft beers and ciders, having the right storage is key to enjoying your favourite drinks at their best. As a seasoned reviewer with years of experience in the beverage industry, I understand the importance of a good beer fridge. Through rigorous testing and research, we’ve narrowed down the best options in the UK, ensuring that you get a fridge that not only maintains the perfect temperature for your drinks but is also energy-efficient and space-saving. Let’s explore the top picks to enhance your beer-tasting experience at home.
Our Picks
We have compiled a list of the top beer fridges available in the UK to help you choose the perfect one for your needs.
AstroAI Mini Fridge 6 Litre / 8 Can
The AstroAI Mini Fridge is a versatile and convenient choice for those seeking a compact cooling and warming solution for a variety of items.
Pros
- Compact 6L capacity suitable for a variety of items
- Cool and warm modes for versatile use
- Multiple power options for home and car
Cons
- Cooling capacity depends on ambient temperature
- Requires continuous power for cooling
- Not suitable for freezing items
The AstroAI Mini Fridge 6 Litre offers a convenient and compact solution for keeping drinks, skincare products, and snacks cool or warm. Its futuristic design is not only stylish but also functional, making it an excellent choice for bedrooms, offices, and even on-the-go situations.
We found the cooling and warming modes easy to use, with the cool mode capable of reaching 18°C-22°C below ambient temperature and the warm mode reaching up to 66°C. However, it is important to note that this mini fridge does not have the capacity to freeze items and relies on the surrounding temperature for its cooling capabilities.
One of the most significant advantages of this mini fridge is its multiple power options. With both an AC and DC power cord included, you can use the AstroAI at home, in the office, or in your car, making it perfect for road trips and camping.
While the AstroAI Mini Fridge is not a replacement for a full-size refrigerator, it provides an excellent solution for those in need of a compact and portable cooling and warming system. However, since it requires continuous power to function, it may not be suitable for off-grid situations or extended periods without access to electricity.
Overall, the AstroAI Mini Fridge offers a practical and stylish option for those looking for a compact fridge with both cooling and warming capabilities. Its size, versatile power options, and ease of use make it a worthy addition to any room or journey.
Subcold Eco50 Mini Fridge Black
A perfect choice for those seeking a compact, efficient and stylish fridge for their home bar, bedroom or office.
Pros
- Excellent temperature performance range
- Low energy consumption and low noise
- Security lock and key feature
Cons
- Slightly heavier door, might need support
- May take a while to get quiet
- Space might not be enough for larger households
The Subcold Eco50 Mini Fridge is a fantastic addition to our home setup. We found it to be an ideal size for our needs, fitting neatly into a small space while still providing enough capacity for drinks, snacks and small food items. The adjustable thermostat allowed us to easily maintain the perfect temperature for both wine and beer, ranging from 0 to 10°C.
One of the key aspects we appreciated was the energy efficiency of the fridge, consuming only 99kWh per year. The noise output was also low at 38dB, making it suitable for use in our home office set up without any disturbances. The fridge also comes with a removable wire shelf, offering versatility in storage options. We particularly loved the additional security feature of the lock and key, which gave us peace of mind for the contents of our mini fridge.
However, we did notice that the door can feel a bit heavy when loaded with items like milk, which can cause the door to drop slightly and affect the seal. It might need a little more support to ensure your items are secure. Also, although the fridge’s noise output is low, it did take some time before it became quiet after the initial switch on. Finally, while the capacity was perfect for our needs, it might not be enough for those with larger households or more extensive chilled storage requirements.
In conclusion, the Subcold Eco50 Mini Fridge is an excellent product suitable for a variety of uses, from keeping our favourite beverages cool in our home bar to storing perishable items in our home office. With its stylish design, energy-efficient performance, and useful security feature, we highly recommend it for a compact and convenient refrigeration solution.
Russell Hobbs Silver Mini Fridge RH8CLR8001S
The Russell Hobbs Silver Mini Fridge is a top choice for those needing a compact and portable cooling solution with surprising versatility.
Pros
- Lightweight and portable
- Dual cooling and warming capabilities
- Multiple power options
Cons
- Limited capacity
- Not suitable for bedrooms or quiet spaces
- Might have a smaller internal dimension than expected
We recently tried out the Russell Hobbs Silver Mini Fridge RH8CLR8001S, and found it to be an excellent option for those looking for a small, portable cooler and warmer. With a lightweight 3.5kg design and foldable carry handle, it’s perfect for camping, caravans, and family days out.
The mini fridge features a thermoelectric system that can cool up to 20°C below ambient temperature or heat up to 65°C above, making it suitable for various food and drink items or even skincare products. Its dual power options allow for convenient use at home or on the go, as it includes an AC mains 230V power lead and a 12V DC car adaptor.
However, the Russell Hobbs Silver Mini Fridge has a limited capacity at just 8 litres. While it is roomy enough to fit 10 x 330ml cans or 6 x 500ml drink cans, larger items may be more challenging to accommodate. Additionally, the fridge may not be ideal for use in quiet spaces, as its fan runs continuously and can be on the noisy side.
In summary, the Russell Hobbs Silver Mini Fridge RH8CLR8001S is a versatile and portable choice for those who require a compact cooling or warming solution. Just bear in mind its limited capacity and noise level.
Koolatron Coca Cola Mini Fridge
We recommend the Koolatron Coca Cola Mini Fridge for its vintage style, versatility, and energy-efficient cooling system.
Pros
- Iconic Coca-Cola design
- AC and 12V DC power options
- Eco-friendly thermoelectric cooling
Cons
- Limited capacity (4 litres)
- Slightly noisy operation
- May not accommodate newer taller cans
Upon unboxing the Koolatron Coca Cola Mini Fridge, we were immediately impressed by its vibrant red design and prominent Coca-Cola aesthetics. This eye-catching fridge adds a nostalgic touch to any room, making it an ideal piece for Coke fans and collectors alike.
What makes this mini fridge stand out is its versatility. It comes with both AC and 12V DC cords, allowing us to use it at home and on the go. We found it perfect for dorms, offices, and even during road trips in our car. Being able to bring our chilled drinks wherever we went was a game-changer and a real convenience.
Another feature we appreciated was the eco-friendly thermoelectric technology. This fridge kept our drinks cool to 32°F (18°C) below the surrounding temperature, all without using harmful chemicals or wasting energy. It’s great to have a cool beverage without having to worry about the environment.
However, there were some aspects we found less ideal. The fridge has a limited capacity of 4 litres, which could be an issue for some. It did a decent job of fitting up to six cans, but we noticed that it struggles to hold taller, slimmer cans. Additionally, while not excessively loud, the humming noise was noticeable.
In conclusion, the Koolatron Coca Cola Mini Fridge is an excellent and functional choice for anyone seeking a portable, vintage-style fridge and is willing to overlook its limited capacity and noise. This unique piece has the perfect blend of form and function, making it a fantastic gift option or a splendid addition to a Coke collector’s memorabilia!
Baridi 85L Under Counter Drinks Fridge
A great addition to your home for keeping your drinks cold and accessible, with some minor drawbacks.
Pros
- Wide temperature range with adjustable thermostat
- Spacious 85-litre capacity with removable shelves
- Quiet operation suitable for various rooms
Cons
- Creaking noises during operation
- Difficulty storing large bottles
- May not cool adequately at the lowest setting
We got our hands on the Baridi 85L Under Counter Drinks Fridge and were certainly impressed with its premium quality and convenience. The direct compressor cooling technology and built-in thermostat ensure that you can store your drinks at the ideal temperature, ranging from 3 to 10°C. With an 85-litre capacity, this fridge has ample space for various types of drinks, fitting up to 110 standard 330ml cans.
The automatic defrost feature makes using the fridge simple and hassle-free and it runs at a quiet 42dB, making it suitable for most rooms in your home or even an office space. Furthermore, Baridi has included removable metal shelves, a warm glow light, and a built-in security lock to keep your drinks securely in place.
Despite its many positive features, there are a few drawbacks to this under-counter drinks fridge. Our unit occasionally made creaking noises, which may be a problem for some users. Large bottles may not fit comfortably in this fridge, and we also found that it might not cool down to the lowest temperature setting advertised.
Overall, the Baridi 85L Under Counter Drinks Fridge is a great addition to any home or office for its cooling capabilities, large capacity, and quiet operation. Keep in mind the few issues mentioned before making a decision, but if these are not major concerns, this fridge may well be worth your investment.
Vasip Mini Fridge 15L
A versatile and portable mini fridge suitable for various uses, from chilling drinks to storing skincare products.
Pros
- Compact size with 15L capacity
- Dual heating and cooling modes
- Suitable for home and car usage
Cons
- Limited space for larger items
- Not a true refrigerator for perishables
- Noise level may be noticeable in quiet spaces
The Vasip Mini Fridge 15L is an impressively compact and versatile fridge that we found works well for drinks, cosmetics, and even small food items. With its 15L capacity, it can easily accommodate up to 30 cans of 330ml beverages. Its portable nature, aided by an integrated handle, allows it to be effortlessly carried around, making it excellent for picnics and camping trips.
We appreciated the dual functionality of this mini fridge, as it provides both heating and cooling options. It has a cooling range of 5-8 °C and a heating range of 55-65 °C. This added feature makes it suitable for various storage needs that may require different temperature settings.
Another significant advantage of this mini fridge is its compatibility with both home and outdoor usage. The fridge includes two plugs, one for 12V DC (car) and another for 220-240V AC (home), allowing you to switch between power sources effortlessly. This adaptability can be especially useful during long drives or when a traditional fridge is not available.
While the Vasip Mini Fridge 15L is energy-saving and environmentally friendly, it may, however, create some noise during operation. This noise is worth considering if you plan to use it in a quieter environment like an office or bedroom.
In conclusion, the Vasip Mini Fridge 15L is a compact, energy-efficient, and versatile option for those who require a portable fridge with dual heating and cooling capabilities. However, it may not be the best option for those who need extensive storage space or a silent appliance.
Husky HUS-HY205 Guinness Drinks Cooler
The Husky HUS-HY205 is a stylish and functional choice if you’re seeking an efficient beer fridge with a touch of flair.
Pros
- Generous 45.8 Litre capacity
- Food and dairy safe with reversible door
- Holds up to 40 x 440ml cans
Cons
- No interior light
- Price may be affected by Guinness branding
- Temperature can fluctuate depending on load
Our first impression of the Husky HUS-HY205 Guinness Drinks Cooler is that it’s a visually appealing appliance, featuring the iconic Guinness logo on its glossy black finish. Having tried it ourselves, we found the 45.8 Litre capacity quite generous, capable of storing 40 cans of 440ml each, making it an ideal choice for hosting gatherings or storing your favourite brews.
The fridge comes with a reversible door and is food and dairy safe, which means you can also use it for perishables without any concerns. Installing the HUS-HY205 on our countertop was a breeze, and it fit seamlessly in our space without taking up too much room.
On the other hand, we noticed that this beer fridge does not have an interior light, which could make locating your drink a bit tricky in dimly lit settings. Moreover, the temperature inside the fridge might fluctuate depending on how full it is, so be sure to plan your storage accordingly.
As for the price, we must admit that while we love the sleek Guinness design, it may cause the fridge to be a little on the expensive side compared to other alternatives. Nevertheless, the Husky HUS-HY205 remains a great addition to any home bar or social space and keeps your beverages at the perfect temperature.
NORTHCLAN Mini Fridge 15L Black
A versatile and portable mini fridge suitable for bedrooms, offices, or cars, providing efficient cooling and warming for your items.
Pros
- 15L large capacity
- Quiet Eco mode
- AC/DC adapters for home and car use
Cons
- Door basket missing for some buyers
- Takes a couple of hours to start chilling
- Noise level on full mode
We recently tried the NORTHCLAN Mini Fridge and found it to be an excellent solution for our cooling needs, both at home and on the go. The 15L capacity could hold everything we required, from drinks to fruits, skincare products, and even medical face masks. The fridge is compact and easy to transport, with a portable handle that adds to its convenience.
The fridge offers two modes: MAX and Eco. Initially, we turned on the MAX mode to cool the items quickly, and then switched to Eco mode to maintain the temperature and produce less noise – perfect when we needed some peace and quiet. The included AC/DC adapters meant we could use the fridge both at home and during our car trips, proving its versatility.
Regarding the fridge’s design, we appreciated the removable shelf and door basket, which could be adjusted as needed for various item sizes. However, some customers have mentioned that their fridge didn’t come with a door basket, so double-check your package upon delivery. For even more convenience, the fridge features both cooling and warming capabilities, allowing us to both chill our drinks and keep our coffee warm in winter.
As for drawbacks, keep in mind that the fridge could take a couple of hours to start chilling, as advised in the included booklet. Also, while the Eco mode is quieter, the full mode does produce some noise, which might bother noise-sensitive individuals.
In conclusion, the NORTHCLAN Mini Fridge performs effectively as a portable cooling and warming solution for home, office, or car use. With a few minor drawbacks aside, its versatility and convenience make it a great option for those in need of a compact and adaptable mini fridge.
NETTA 5L Mini Fridge – Portable White
Ideal choice for those seeking a lightweight and versatile mini fridge for various settings, like travelling, offices, student dorms, and more.
Pros
- Lightweight and portable design
- Switchable cooling and warming function
- Quiet operation at 28db
Cons
- Limited to small cans only
- Not suitable for enclosing spaces due to heat from the back
- Takes time to cool items initially
We recently tried the NETTA 5L Mini Fridge, and its lightweight design and portability impressed us. Moving it around was hassle-free thanks to the included DC 12V power lead, making it possible to connect to a car cigarette lighter socket. It also comes with an AC mains power plug for indoor use.
In addition to being lightweight, the NETTA 5L Mini Fridge also boasts a switchable function, allowing toggling between cooling and warming. As a result, we could store a wider range of items than with a strictly cold mini fridge. However, it only fits smaller cans, which might not be suitable for everyone’s needs.
Another benefit of this mini fridge is its quiet operation at 28db, quieter than a computer. We appreciated the lack of noise disturbance, whether we were using it during the day or at night. On the downside, the fridge takes some time to cool items initially, and due to the heat from the back, it isn’t suitable for enclosed spaces.
Overall, the NETTA 5L Mini Fridge offers a portable and versatile option for those in need of a compact cooling and warming solution.
CROWNFUL Mini Fridge
The CROWNFUL Mini Fridge is an excellent choice for those looking for a compact and portable fridge with both cooling and warming functionalities.
Pros
- Multifunctional and suitable for various uses
- Compact, portable, and super quiet operation
- Eco-friendly and ETL certified for safety
Cons
- Limited capacity, suitable for only six 12 oz cans
- Magnet is strong, needs two hands to open
- Noisy for some users, especially during sleep
We recently tried the CROWNFUL Mini Fridge and found it to be a handy companion. Its multifunctional use makes it ideal for storing food, drinks, snacks, cosmetics, and even skin care products, quickly making it our go-to personal refrigerator. We appreciated the convenience of switching between cooling and warming modes with ease – it can cool to 32°F below the surrounding temperature, or maintain heat up to 149°F, making it versatile for various storage needs.
The fridge’s portability, with its detachable shelf and carry handle, proved useful in numerous settings like bedrooms, offices, and road trips. However, it has a limited capacity of 4 litres, which is just enough to store six 12 oz soda cans, so it might not be suitable for those with extensive storage requirements. It’s also important to note that some users might find the fridge’s noise level a bit intrusive, especially during sleep.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the CROWNFUL Mini Fridge excels in being energy-efficient and environment-friendly. It is freon-free and ETL certified for safety and durability. Overall, we highly recommend this portable fridge for its versatility and convenience, especially if you’re looking for a compact option to store a variety of items.
Buying Guide
In selecting the best beer fridge in the UK, there are several aspects to consider to ensure a product meets your needs and preferences. Let us guide you through some crucial factors to contemplate when choosing a beer fridge.
Capacity and Size
Consider the amount of space you have and the number of beers you would like to store. Beer fridges come in various capacities, from compact ones holding 30-40 cans to more substantial options that can accommodate over 120 cans. Measure the area where you plan to place the fridge and find a suitable size that will fit without obstructing walkways or utility access.
Temperature Range
Different beers, especially craft brews, require different storage temperatures to maximise their flavour profiles. Look for a beer fridge that offers adjustable temperature settings, typically ranging from 0-10°C (32-50°F). This allows you to store lagers, IPAs, and stouts exactly how their brewers intended.
Shelving
The type of shelving in a beer fridge impacts storage flexibility. While fixed wire shelves can accommodate standard-sized cans and bottles, adjustable shelves will enable you to customise the fridge’s storage space. This is particularly useful when storing large or uniquely shaped bottles.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is essential both for the environment and your energy bills. Examine the energy efficiency ratings on the beer fridges, usually indicated by an EU Energy Label. An “A+” rating or higher means the fridge consumes less electricity, reducing your carbon footprint and lowering your energy expenditure in the long run.
Noise Level
Some beer fridges may generate more noise than others. If quietness is an essential factor for you, consider the noise level of the fridge. Though no beer fridge is entirely silent, look for one with a noise rating of 42 decibels (dB) or below to minimise disturbance in your setting.
By keeping these factors in mind, you will make an informed decision when selecting the perfect beer fridge for your needs. Remember to consider capacity, temperature range, shelving, energy efficiency, and noise level as you weigh your options.