Should You Get A Drawer Fridge? Pros, Cons & Expert Thoughts
Drawer fridges (also called refrigerator drawers) are a growing trend in modern kitchen design. Sleek, versatile, and space-saving, they offer a fresh take on food storage that’s different from the traditional upright fridge.
But are they worth it for your kitchen?
Let’s explore the pros, cons, and key considerations to help you decide if a drawer fridge is right for you.
In a hurry? Here’s my key takeaway:
❄️ Drawer fridges offer sleek, space-saving, and convenient storage, but they’re likely best suited as a secondary fridge due to their higher cost and limited capacity.
Read on to learn more…
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What Is a Drawer Fridge?
A drawer fridge is a refrigerator built into your cabinetry that opens like a drawer rather than a hinged, tall door. They’re installed below the counter and come in single or double-drawer configurations.
They can be:
- Refrigerator drawers (for everyday food storage)
- Freezer drawers (for frozen goods)
- Speciality drawers (wine, drinks, snacks, or produce)
Drawer fridges are often used as secondary refrigeration alongside a full-size fridge, but in small kitchens or apartments, they can serve as the main fridge.
The Pros of Drawer Fridges
1. Space-Saving and Flexible
- Fit neatly under counters or in kitchen islands.
- Great for small kitchens, apartments, or open-plan spaces where you want a low-profile look.
- Can be installed in multiple locations. Kitchen, bar area, butler’s pantry, and even outdoor kitchens.
2. Ergonomic and Accessible
- No bending or crouching to reach the back of a deep shelf.
- Everything is visible at a glance when the drawer is open.
- Perfect for kids to access snacks or drinks independently.
3. Aesthetic and Seamless Design
- Can be panelled to match cabinetry for a minimalist look.
- Reduces clutter by spreading storage across the kitchen instead of relying on one bulky appliance.
4. Great for Workflow
- Place a drawer fridge near prep zones for fresh produce.
- Install one on an island for drinks and snacks.
- Keep a freezer drawer near your cooking zone for easy access to frozen ingredients.
The Cons of Drawer Fridges
1. Limited Capacity
- Smaller than a traditional fridge, so not ideal as the only refrigerator for larger households.
- Works best as a supplement, not a replacement, unless you live alone or have minimal food storage needs.
2. Higher Cost
- Typically, more expensive per litre of storage than upright fridges.
- Panel-ready options (for a seamless look) can add to the cost.
3. Installation and Layout Planning
- Requires built-in cabinetry and proper ventilation.
- Not always a simple swap. Needs planning during kitchen design or renovation.
4. Energy Use
- Some drawer fridges may be less efficient than a single upright fridge, since you’re powering multiple cooling units if used in addition.
Who Should Consider a Drawer Fridge?
Drawer fridges are a smart choice if you:
- Want extra refrigeration or freezer space without adding a bulky second fridge.
- Have an open-plan or minimalist kitchen and want appliances to blend in.
- Entertain often and want a dedicated drinks or prep-zone fridge.
- Live in a smaller home or apartment where space-saving is key.
They may not be ideal if you:
- Need lots of food storage for a family.
- Are working with a tight budget.
- Don’t want to commit to built-in cabinetry.
Drawer Fridge Brands — USA & UK
| Region | Brands Available |
|---|---|
| USA | JennAir · Sub-Zero · Thermador · Perlick · KitchenAid · Viking |
| UK | Fisher & Paykel · Liebherr · Miele · Sub-Zero & Wolf |
Final Thoughts
A drawer fridge can be a brilliant addition to a modern kitchen, offering convenience, sleek aesthetics, and flexible placement. They’re best used as secondary storage, but in smaller homes or minimalist kitchens, they can work as the main fridge.
If you value design, workflow, and convenience and don’t mind the extra cost, a drawer fridge could be a worthwhile investment. If capacity and budget are bigger priorities, you might be better off sticking with a traditional fridge.
DISCOVER MORE
- Should You Get A Drawer Fridge? Pros, Cons & Expert Thoughts
- Refrigerator Placement In Kitchen Design – Layout Advice & Tips
- Should You Get A Wine Cooler For Your Kitchen?
Author
Michael is a kitchen designer from the UK. He's been designing and project managing new kitchen installations for over 10 years. Before that, he was an electrician and part of a team that fitted kitchens. He created Kitchinsider in early 2019 to help give people advice when it comes to getting a new kitchen.
