Are you charmed by the nostalgic appeal of retro fridge freezers but uncertain how to balance this style with modern functionality? Drawing on years of expertise in kitchen appliances, I’ve tested and evaluated numerous models to find the perfect blend of retro charm and contemporary efficiency. This article cuts through the clutter, guiding you towards the best retro fridge freezers in the UK that not only evoke a sense of yesteryear but also meet today’s high standards for performance and convenience.
Our Picks
To help you find the perfect addition to your kitchen, we have compiled a list of the top retro fridge freezers available in the UK.
IceKing IK8951WE 48cm Freestanding 50/50 Split Fridge Freezer – White
This IceKing fridge freezer is a reliable and stylish option that provides ample storage space, perfect for those in need of a compact yet practical appliance.
Pros
- Adjustable shelves and salad crisper drawer
- Reversible doors for convenience
- 2-year manufacturers guarantee
Cons
- Manual defrost for freezer
- May not be suitable for large families
- Some users may find it too small
The IceKing IK8951WE is a fantastic choice if you’re seeking a compact, freestanding fridge freezer with a retro look. We love the combination of its sleek white design and practical features, such as the adjustable glass shelves that can be tailored to various food shapes and sizes. The salad crisper drawer keeps fruits and vegetables fresher for longer, ensuring your produce stays in top condition.
One aspect that we particularly appreciate is the reversible door design. This allows you to easily adjust the fridge freezer’s opening direction, ensuring it fits seamlessly into your kitchen setup. This appliance comes with a 2-year manufacturers guarantee, giving you peace of mind when it comes to its longevity and durability.
On the downside, the freezer requires manual defrosting, which can be a bit of a hassle for some users. Additionally, larger families may find the fridge freezer’s overall capacity insufficient for their needs. However, for those with limited space or who do not require a significant amount of storage, the IceKing IK8951WE is an ideal choice.
In conclusion, the IceKing IK8951WE fridge freezer offers ample storage and practical features, wrapped in a stylish retro design. Despite its compact size, it provides the essentials for a small family or those with limited kitchen space. With its 2-year guarantee, this fridge freezer is a solid investment, promising both longevity and efficiency.
Montpellier MAB2035PB Retro Style Undercounter Fridge Freezer
This compact and stylish Montpellier fridge freezer is perfect for small spaces, offering both functionality and a charming retro design.
Pros
- Charming retro design and pastel blue colour
- Compact size, suitable for small spaces
- Reliable freezing performance
Cons
- Some users reported flimsy handles
- Can be a bit noisy at times
- Energy rating is not as good as expected
We recently had the opportunity to use the Montpellier MAB2035PB Retro Style Undercounter Fridge Freezer, and we’re quite pleased with its performance and aesthetics. Its classic pastel blue colour and sleek retro design caught our eye, making it a great focal point in our kitchen.
The compact size of this fridge freezer is one of its key selling points. In our small apartment kitchen, it was the perfect fit without taking up excessive floor space. The fridge compartment has a drinks can dispenser, a salad crisper, and enough room for everyday essentials. The freezer compartment, albeit not very large, was sufficient enough for storing frozen meals and treats.
While using the Montpellier MAB2035PB, we noticed that it can be somewhat noisy at times. However, this was not a significant issue for us. Some users reported that the handles were slightly flimsy, but in our experience, they served their purpose without issue.
Overall, the Montpellier MAB2035PB Retro Style Undercounter Fridge Freezer is a stylish and functional appliance that suits small kitchens or living spaces. Its charming design and reliable freezing performance make it a worthy addition to your home. However, be mindful of the energy rating and slight noise when considering this product.
Willow W117FFW Freestanding Fridge Freezer
The Willow W117FFW Freestanding Fridge Freezer is a great choice for those seeking a stylish and efficient retro fridge freezer in the UK.
Pros
- Reversible Door for flexible placement
- Fast Cool Function for quick cooling or freezing
- Mark-Proof Finish for easy cleaning
Cons
- Manual defrost system
- Limited storage capacity of 117 litres
- No batteries included for the thermostat
We recently tried the Willow W117FFW Freestanding Fridge Freezer and were impressed with its various features. The reversible door allows it to fit seamlessly into any kitchen layout, and the fast cool function is perfect for quickly cooling or freezing foods, ensuring optimal freshness.
The mark-proof finish on the exterior is a lifesaver for cleanliness, as it allows for easy cleaning with just a quick wipe down using a microfiber cloth. The adjustable thermostat is user-friendly and helps to maintain the right temperature for all your food items.
On the downside, it has a manual defrost system, which some may find inconvenient compared to other fridge freezers with an automatic defrost function. Additionally, the storage capacity of 117 litres may be insufficient for larger households or those who require more storage space for food items. Also, note that batteries are not included for the thermostat, so you would have to purchase them separately.
Nonetheless, the Willow W117FFW Freestanding Fridge Freezer, with its charming retro design and functional features, remains an excellent option for those in the UK who want a stylish and efficient fridge freezer at a competitive price.
Willow WTM118G Top Mount Fridge Freezer
The Willow WTM118G is a solid choice for a stylish and practical retro fridge freezer with great storage capacity and easy cleaning features.
Pros
- Ample storage with 118L capacity, perfect for small families
- Adjustable thermostat for optimum temperature control
- Easy to clean glass shelves and mark-proof finish
Cons
- Manual defrost system may be inconvenient for some users
- Slightly larger dimensions may not fit smaller kitchens
- Energy rating of F, though equivalent to A+ on older scale
We recently had the opportunity to use the Willow WTM118G Top Mount Fridge Freezer and were impressed by its sleek design and storage options. Available in four colours, it blended seamlessly into our kitchen, and the recessed handle adds to the smooth and clean appearance of the fridge.
The fridge and freezer compartments provided ample storage for a small family, with a net capacity of 118L (85L for the fridge and 33L for the freezer). The variety of door trays, glass shelves, and drawers allowed us to organise our food efficiently and keep everything within easy reach. The addition of an egg tray, ice tray, and ice scoop were also appreciated.
One standout feature for us was the mark-proof finish on the exterior of the fridge. Combined with easy-to-clean glass shelves, maintaining the cleanliness of the Willow WTM118G was a breeze.
Despite some minor drawbacks, such as the manual defrost system and larger dimensions, we found this fridge freezer to be practical and stylish. With a 24-month warranty and a 4* freezer rating, the Willow WTM118G Top Mount Fridge Freezer makes for a reliable and efficient addition to any kitchen.
CHiQ CBM159LEBDU Fridge Freezer
The CHiQ CBM159LEBDU Fridge Freezer is a decent option for small households looking for a stylish and functional appliance.
Pros
- Large capacity for its size
- Customisable temperature settings
- Removable shelves and crisper drawer
Cons
- Manual defrost system
- May be too small for large families
- Limited product reviews
The CHiQ CBM159LEBDU Fridge Freezer is a compact appliance ideal for 2-3 people, featuring a sleek black design with stainless steel doors. Its dimensions of 49.5 x 47.4 x 144 cm make it suitable for smaller spaces while providing a 109L cooler and a 48L freezer in separate compartments.
We appreciate the 5 variable temperature settings, allowing us to find the perfect storage conditions for our food and drinks. The fridge temperature ranges from 2 °C to 8 °C, while the freezer consistently maintains a temperature of -16 °C to -24 °C.
The removable shelves and crisper drawer add flexibility to this fridge freezer, letting us adapt the layout to our storage requirements. The crisper drawer is particularly useful for preserving the freshness and flavour of our fruits and vegetables.
However, we found the manual defrost system could be inconvenient for some users, requiring more frequent maintenance compared to frost-free models. Additionally, this fridge freezer may not be suitable for larger households due to its compact size. Finally, with limited available product reviews, it may be challenging for potential buyers to gauge the overall performance and satisfaction of other users.
In conclusion, the CHiQ CBM159LEBDU Fridge Freezer is suitable for small households seeking a stylish and functional appliance. Its customisable temperature settings, removable shelves, and crisper drawer are valuable features, but potential buyers should be aware of the manual defrost system and limited product reviews.
Willow WR55FFC Retro Fridge Freezer
The Willow WR55FFC is a stylish and functional choice for those seeking a retro fridge freezer with frost-free and energy-efficient features.
Pros
- Frost free cooling system
- Elegant retro design with various colours
- Easy-to-use digital thermostat
Cons
- Smaller freezer space
- Occasional noise issues
- Limited customer service support
When we tried the Willow WR55FFC Retro Fridge Freezer, we immediately loved the vintage design that gave our kitchen a unique touch. The variety of colours available allows you to choose the perfect match for your home decor. We found the frost-free cooling system to be a significant advantage, as it saved us from the hassle of defrosting.
The digital thermostat was simple to use, enabling us to set the temperature for both the fridge and freezer compartments according to our needs. We were happy to discover that the LED interior light provided ample illumination for finding items, even during late-night snack runs.
However, the freezer compartment was smaller than we expected, so keep your storage requirements in mind before purchasing. Additionally, we noticed occasional loud noises from the appliance. While this was not a deal-breaker for us, it could be for some.
We also found that the customer service for the Willow brand was limited. There were instances where customers mentioned they had difficulty reaching the manufacturer for support, although we didn’t face this issue personally.
In conclusion, the Willow WR55FFC Retro Fridge Freezer is a stylish, efficient, and easy-to-use appliance. Its drawbacks include a smaller freezer and occasional noise issues. If these aren’t significant deal breakers for you, it’s a worthy investment that will add style and functionality to your kitchen.
CANDY CSC1365WEN Static Freestanding Fridge Freezer
We highly recommend the CANDY CSC1365WEN Static Freestanding Fridge Freezer for those seeking a practical and compact appliance with energy-saving features.
Pros
- Spacious fridge and freezer compartments
- LED light for excellent visibility
- Flexible storage with adjustable shelves
Cons
- Manual defrost system
- Fridge may freeze on higher settings
- Only one shelf in the fridge section
The CANDY CSC1365WEN Static Freestanding Fridge Freezer offers a combined 173-litre capacity, making it perfect for stocking up on essentials. The 114-litre fridge and 71-litre freezer can hold up to 10 bags of shopping, allowing you to store a variety of fresh and frozen goods with ease. The LED light provides excellent visibility, ensuring you can easily find what you’re looking for, even at night.
The adjustable anti-spill fridge shelves and vegetable compartment provide flexible storage options for your fresh food items. The freezer comes with three transparent drawers that make it easy to see what you have stored. Moreover, the fridge freezer features a separate salad crisper drawer to keep your fruits and veggies fresher for longer.
One downside worth noting is the fridge may freeze on higher settings, so be prepared to adjust the temperature accordingly. Another thing to consider is that the fridge freezer requires manual defrosting to remove any ice build-ups. While this may not be a deal-breaker for some, it might not be suitable for those looking for a low-maintenance appliance.
In conclusion, the CANDY CSC1365WEN Static Freestanding Fridge Freezer is an excellent choice for those seeking a practical and compact refrigerator with flexible storage options. However, remember that it comes with a manual defrost system and may freeze on higher settings.
COMFEE’ RCT87WH1(E) Under Counter Fridge Freezer
The COMFEE’ RCT87WH1(E) is a solid choice for those in need of a compact and efficient fridge freezer with a retro design.
Pros
- Adjustable legs and reversible door for flexibility
- Removable shelves and drawer for customisable storage
- Quiet and energy-efficient compressor
Cons
- Manual defrost system
- Limited freezer capacity
- Might be too small for larger households
Upon using the COMFEE’ RCT87WH1(E) fridge freezer, we found that it’s an excellent addition to small kitchens or shared living spaces. The adjustable legs and reversible door allow for easy installation, and the white retro design adds a nice touch to its appearance.
What impressed us most about this fridge freezer is the removable shelves and drawer, which help to organise our food and accommodate larger items when needed. This fridge freezer is also equipped with an internal light and 2L bottle rack, which makes it convenient for daily use.
However, we noticed that the manual defrost system of the freezer might require extra work. With a 26-litre freezer capacity, it may not be suitable for those who need more freezer storage. Nonetheless, the 61-litre fridge capacity is sufficient for our day-to-day needs, and the noise level is remarkably low at just 40 dB.
In conclusion, we think the COMFEE’ RCT87WH1(E) Under Counter Fridge Freezer is a great option for small households or those in shared accommodation. Its retro design, flexible storage options, and energy efficiency make it a reliable and stylish choice for keeping your food and beverages fresh and cool.
Hisense RB327N4WW1 55cm Freestanding Fridge Freezer
We recommend the Hisense RB327N4WW1 Fridge Freezer for its ample storage, frost-free technology, and convenient water dispenser.
Pros
- 251 litre capacity – can hold 13 bags of groceries
- Frost-free technology prevents ice buildup
- Non-plumbed water dispenser for easy access to water
Cons
- Limited space for milk and juice cartons due to water tank
- Freezer capacity may not be sufficient for larger households
- Door reversal process might be tricky for some
We recently had the chance to try out the Hisense RB327N4WW1 fridge freezer and were impressed with its spacious design. With a 251 litre capacity, the fridge can easily accommodate 13 bags of groceries without feeling cluttered. The separate freezer compartment has enough room to store a good amount of frozen goods, although larger families might find its capacity a bit limiting.
The frost-free technology incorporated into this fridge freezer is a standout feature – no more chiselling ice from the freezer walls. This makes maintenance a breeze and ensures optimal cooling performance throughout the appliance’s life. The bonus of having a non-plumbed water dispenser is a nice touch, as it offers convenient access to cold water without relying on plumbing connections.
One downside that we encountered was the limited space for large milk and juice cartons due to the internal water tank. This might be a bit inconvenient for those who stock a lot of beverages in the fridge. Additionally, some users reported that the door reversal process was not as straightforward as expected. However, with a little patience or assistance, this issue can be easily resolved.
Overall, we believe the Hisense RB327N4WW1 fridge freezer is a reliable and aesthetically pleasing option for those looking to purchase a retro fridge freezer in the UK. With spacious storage, handy features, and top-quality performance, it’s a solid investment for any household.
Amica FDR2213C Fridge Freezer Retro Style
The Amica FDR2213C Fridge Freezer is a great choice for those who love retro style and need a compact, yet functional appliance in their kitchen.
Pros
- Generous fridge capacity
- Quiet operation
- Stylish retro design
Cons
- Limited freezer capacity
- Not suitable for larger families
- Hinge side cannot be swapped
We recently got our hands on the retro-styled Amica FDR2213C Fridge Freezer and were impressed with its style and performance. The fridge has a generous 164-litre capacity, offering plenty of space for storing our weekly groceries. The adjustable glass shelves and salad crisper made it easy for us to organise our items, and the balconies in the door provided extra storage for bottles and condiments.
The freezer compartment, with a 44-litre capacity, might be a bit limited for larger families, but it worked well for us as a couple. We appreciated the inclusion of an ice cube tray and the 4-star freezer rating. The appliance runs quietly at 40dB, which meant we hardly noticed it was on, even in our open-plan living space.
The Amica FDR2213C has a beautiful cream colour and soft round curves that give it a distinct retro charm. However, one drawback is that the door hinge side cannot be swapped, which could be an issue for some kitchens. Overall, we highly recommend this fridge freezer for those who appreciate retro design and need a compact appliance without compromising on performance.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best retro fridge freezer in the UK, we understand that there are several factors to consider. In this buying guide, we will discuss what features to look for and how to choose the perfect retro fridge freezer for your needs.
Size and capacity are essential elements to consider when selecting a retro fridge freezer. We should ensure that the chosen model fits our kitchen space and has enough storage capacity for our needs. It’s essential to measure the available space and compare it with the product’s dimensions before making a decision.
Energy efficiency is a crucial aspect to consider when purchasing a retro fridge freezer. We must look for models with a high energy efficiency rating, as this will help us save on electricity bills and reduce our environmental footprint. Models with an A+++ rating are the most energy-efficient.
Retro fridge freezers come with various cooling features to ensure food stays fresh for an extended period. We should look for models with features such as:
- No Frost: prevents ice build-up, allowing for easier maintenance
- Super Cooling: rapidly lowers the temperature, keeping food fresher for a longer time
- Fast Freezing: freezes newly added items quickly, preserving their nutrients and freshness
Shelving and storage configurations also play a significant role in choosing the best retro fridge freezer. We recommend looking for a model with adjustable shelves, door balconies, and drawers for optimal organisation and access to items. Some models also have wine racks and bottle holders, offering added convenience.
Lastly, don’t forget about the design and colour options. Retro fridge freezers are known for their stylish, vintage aesthetic, and they come in various colours, including cream, blue, red, and mint green. Ensure that the chosen model not only meets our functional needs but also enhances the look of our kitchen.
By considering these factors, we can confidently select the ideal retro fridge freezer for our home without compromising on performance, style, or convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top retro fridge freezer brands in the UK?
In the UK, some of the top retro fridge freezer brands include Smeg, Swan, and Gorenje. These companies have built a reputation for producing high-quality, stylish appliances that blend modern technology with a classic vintage aesthetic.
Which retro fridge freezers have the best energy efficiency?
Energy efficiency is an essential factor when purchasing a fridge freezer. The best energy-efficient retro fridge freezers in the UK are usually graded with an A+++ rating. Some models from Smeg, Swan and Gorenje have achieved this rating, making them great choices for eco-conscious consumers.
What are the most reliable retro fridge freezer models?
Reliability is a crucial aspect when buying a fridge freezer. Some models have been praised for their performance, build quality, and low maintenance requirements.
How do Swan, Smeg, and Gorenje compare in the retro fridge freezer market?
Swan, Smeg, and Gorenje each have unique offerings in the retro fridge freezer market. Smeg is known for their Italian design flair and innovative technology. Swan offers a range of stylish models with a mix of functionality and affordability. Gorenje, a Slovenian brand, provides reliable appliances with a strong design focus and competitive prices. Each brand has its strengths, and the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference and budget.
Which retro fridge freezers offer the best value for money?
Value for money is an essential consideration, as retro fridge freezers can vary significantly in price. Some options offering the best value for money include the Swan SR11020 and the Gorenje ORB153, thanks to their competitive pricing, functionality, and energy efficiency.
Where can I find reliable reviews on retro fridge freezers in the UK?
Reliable reviews are essential to make an informed choice. Trusted websites such as Which?, Trusted Reviews, and Expert Reviews offer in-depth reviews of retro fridge freezers in the UK. Additionally, collecting information from consumer reviews on retailer websites and social media platforms can provide further insight into the performance and reliability of specific models.