5 Top-Rated Small Chest Freezers
Finding a good small chest freezer can make life a bit easier, especially if you’re tight on kitchen space or just need extra storage for frozen food. Some models run quietly, some are more energy-efficient, and a few manage to tick all the right boxes without costing a fortune. It really depends on what suits your needs best. Below, we’ve picked out a few of the top-rated models worth looking at, with attention to things like build quality, energy use, and day-to-day practicality.
1
Exceptional
Fridgemaster MCF96EB 95L Chest Freezer
What We Like
2
Exceptional
Cookology CCFZ99WH 99L Chest Freezer White
What We Like
3
Exceptional
SIA CHF100BL 80L Small Chest Freezer
What We Like
4
Excellent
Igenix IG100 99L Chest Freezer White
What We Like
5
Excellent
CHiQ FCF98DEU 99L Chest Freezer White
What We Like
How to Choose a Small Chest Freezer That Suits You
Before you pick one, it’s worth thinking through what actually matters to you. It’s easy to get drawn in by features you might never use. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Size and Capacity
Small chest freezers usually range from 3 to 5 cubic feet. That might not sound like much, but you’d be surprised how much you can store when it’s laid out properly. Think about what you plan to keep in there. A couple of large joints of meat? Or lots of smaller bits like frozen fruit and ready meals? If you’re tight on space, measure the spot where it’s going and double-check the freezer’s dimensions.
Energy Use
Even smaller models use a fair bit of electricity over time. Look for freezers with a good energy efficiency rating. Some have features like thicker insulation or an eco mode that help keep costs down in the long run. Also, check if it’s suitable for outbuildings if you’re planning to put it in the garage or shed not all of them can cope with lower temperatures.
Storage Layout
Most small chest freezers don’t have shelves, but many come with removable baskets. These are great for organising things like ice cream or bags of veg. If you’re likely to be rummaging around at the bottom a lot, it’s worth going for one with good lighting inside, too.
Noise Level
Chest freezers are generally quieter than upright ones, but it’s still worth checking if noise is a concern. If it’s going in a living space or utility room near bedrooms, aim for something below 40 decibels.
How long can food stay frozen in a chest freezer?
As long as the freezer maintains a steady temperature of -18°C, food can stay frozen safely for months. That said, it’s still best to rotate your stock and label everything with dates. Some items like bread or pre-cooked meals are best used within 3 to 6 months for taste and texture. Meat and fish can usually go up to a year.
Do small chest freezers cost much to run?
Not really, especially if you pick one with a good energy rating. On average, a modern small chest freezer might add around £30 to £50 a year to your electricity bill, depending on how efficient it is and where it’s kept. Keeping it full helps, too a full freezer doesn’t need to work as hard to stay cold.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Chest Freezer
A small chest freezer can do more than just keep things frozen. Here are a few practical tips to help you get the best use out of it:
Organise It with Baskets or Bins
Use stackable bins or reusable shopping bags to create layers inside. This way, you won’t need to unpack the whole thing just to find a single item at the bottom. Labelling each bin helps too.
Freeze in Portions
Split bulk buys into portions before freezing. It makes life easier later and saves space. It’s also a good habit for reducing food waste.
Defrost It Regularly
Even with models that claim to be “manual defrost,” it’s a job that shouldn’t be ignored. Ice build-up makes the freezer work harder and takes up room. Every few months, switch it off, prop the lid open, and let it defrost naturally. Place towels underneath to catch the water.
