10 Best Freezerless Refrigerators for Garage, Home & Office

A freezerless refrigerator gives you more room for fresh food and cold drinks. It works well in a busy home, office, garage, small apartment, or food business.

The Frigidaire FRAE2024AW is our best overall pick. It offers 20 cubic feet of space and garage-ready cooling. Yet each model below serves a different need. Use the quick table to find the right match for your space.

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Capacity and fit details can vary by finish or model update. Check the current specification sheet before installation.

10 Best Freezerless Refrigerator Reviews

These freezerless refrigerator reviews focus on fit, storage, and daily use. Each product fills a clear role. That matters more than picking one model for every buyer. If you’re upgrading your kitchen setup, don’t overlook water filter options that can make a real difference.

Ready to upgrade your kitchen setup? Take a look at our roundup of the best refrigerator storage bins to find clear, durable containers that fit your specific shelving layout.

1. Frigidaire FRAE2024AW — Best Overall

The Frigidaire FRAE2024AW balances space, cost, and useful features. Its 20-cubic-foot cabinet can hold a large weekly food load.

The cooling system moves cold air throughout the cabinet. This helps reduce warm spots near crowded shelves. An alarm warns you about a warm cabinet or open door.

You also get adjustable glass shelves and wide door bins. The lower basket keeps loose items under control.

This model can work in a garage. Its rated room temperature range runs from 0°F to 110°F. That range is wider than many indoor-only refrigerators.

What you may like

• Large 20-cubic-foot interior
• Garage-ready temperature range
• Adjustable full-width shelves
• Deep lower storage basket
• Door and temperature alarms
• Auto-close door
• ENERGY STAR certification

What to consider

• The white finish looks plain
• It needs more floor space than compact models
• The deep door may need extra opening room

Best for

You want one flexible refrigerator for food, drinks, or bulk storage. It is a smart fit for a pantry, garage, or second kitchen.

2. Danby Designer DAR044A4BDD — Best Budget

The Danby DAR044A4BDD is a small all-fridge with no freezer box. That gives you access to its full 4.4-cubic-foot interior.

It can sit under many standard counters. The smooth back also helps it fit near a wall. You can reverse the door to match your room.

Inside, adjustable wire shelves hold snacks and meal supplies. The door includes can storage and space for tall bottles.

This is not a full family refrigerator. It works better as a second unit.

What you may like

• Compact, counter-high shape
• No space wasted on a freezer box
• ENERGY STAR certification
• Automatic defrost
• Reversible door
• Built-in can holder
• Interior light

What to consider

• Limited space for large food containers
• Wire shelves may not suit small items
• Mechanical controls offer less detail

Best for

You need a low-cost freezerless refrigerator for an office, bedroom, dorm-style room, or workshop.

3. Frigidaire Professional FPRU19F8WF — Best Counter-Depth

The Frigidaire Professional FPRU19F8WF offers a built-in look without using a small interior. Its 18.9-cubic-foot cabinet provides broad food storage.

The shallow design reduces how far the unit sticks out. This creates a cleaner look beside standard cabinets. Keep in mind that the door and handle will still add depth.

The stainless finish suits a main kitchen. You can also pair this model with a matching freezer column. A trim kit can join both units.

This counter depth freezerless refrigerator makes sense for a planned kitchen design. Measure the full opening before ordering.

What you may like

• Large fresh-food capacity
• Counter-depth cabinet
• Stainless exterior
• Flexible shelf layout
• ENERGY STAR certification
• Can pair with a matching freezer

What to consider

• Costs more than a basic freestanding model
• Trim pieces may cost extra
• Requires careful door-clearance checks

Best for

You want a large all-refrigerator with a neat kitchen fit. It also suits a side-by-side column setup.

4. Danby Designer DAR110A1WDD — Best Apartment Size

An apartment fridge must fit a small room without feeling too small. The Danby DAR110A1WDD finds a useful middle point.

Its 11-cubic-foot cabinet holds more than a mini fridge. Yet it takes up less room than most full-size refrigerators.

The freezerless layout also makes storage simple. You can use every shelf for fresh food, meal boxes, and drinks.

Its narrow body may fit a studio or basement suite. It also works in a guest area or small office kitchen.

What you may like

• Useful mid-size capacity
• Narrower than many full-size models
• No small freezer box taking up space
• ENERGY STAR certification
• Simple interior layout
• Suitable for several room types

What to consider

• May feel small for a family
• White finish has a basic look
• Large party trays may be hard to fit

Best for

You live alone or share a small apartment. It is also useful in a guest suite or break room.

5. Whirlpool SideKicks WSR57R18DM — Best Full-Size

The Whirlpool SideKicks WSR57R18DM is built for fresh-food storage. It gives you 17.7 cubic feet of usable refrigerator space.

Four produce drawers help sort fruit and vegetables. Wide shelves hold large trays, bowls, and food containers. Door bins handle bottles and gallon jugs.

The front controls make temperature changes simple. A temperature alarm alerts you if the cabinet gets too warm.

You can place it beside Whirlpool’s matching upright freezer. This creates a wide food-storage wall.

What you may like

• Full-height refrigerator cabinet
• Four produce drawers
• Large door bins
• Electronic temperature control
• LED interior lights
• Temperature alarm
• Matching freezer option

What to consider

• It is not a counter-depth model
• User feedback has been mixed
• The matching pair needs a wide opening

Best for

You want a full-size refrigerator for a family kitchen. It also works well in a large pantry.

6. Gladiator GARF30FDGB — Best Garage Ready

The Gladiator GARF30FDGB looks and works like garage equipment. Its dark finish matches tool chests, cabinets, and workbenches.

A foot pedal opens the door while your hands are full. Heavy-duty casters let you move the unit for cleaning. Thick shelves can support cases of drinks.

The 17.8-cubic-foot cabinet provides plenty of room. Yet its rated cold limit is not as low as the Frigidaire’s range. Unheated winter garages may still cause problems.

This is a bold garage ready freezerless refrigerator. Still, buyer feedback has been uneven. Review the warranty terms before making your choice.

What you may like

• Foot-pedal door opener
• Heavy-duty glass shelves
• Rolling casters
• Large drink storage space
• Garage-style exterior
• ENERGY STAR certification

What to consider

• High price for a garage unit
• Mixed owner feedback
• Very cold garages may affect stored food
• Larger casters add to total height

Best for

You store drinks, party food, and bulk groceries in your garage. It also suits a large home workshop.

For more options, see this guide to the best garage refrigerators.

7. Fisher & Paykel RS30SHE — Best Energy Efficient

The Fisher & Paykel RS30SHE combines large storage with low listed energy use. It provides 16.7 cubic feet of space in a built-in column.

This model uses about 135 kilowatt-hours each year under standard testing. A kilowatt-hour is a unit on your power bill.

It also uses R600a refrigerant. This gas has less climate impact than some older types.

The panel-ready front can match your cabinets. However, installation adds cost. You may need a cabinet panel, handle, and trained installer.

What you may like

• Low rated annual energy use
• Large built-in capacity
• Panel-ready exterior
• ENERGY STAR certification
• Lower-impact refrigerant
• Clean custom appearance

What to consider

• High starting price
• Installation can be complex
• Cabinet panel and handle may cost extra
• Not easy to move later

Best for

You want an efficient built-in unit for a planned kitchen. It works best during a remodel or new build.

8. Avallon ABR241SGRH — Best for Beverage Storage

The Avallon ABR241SGRH is a beverage refrigerator. It is not meant to replace your main food fridge.

Its shelf layout holds cans, bottles, and other packaged drinks. The maker lists room for up to 152 cans. Real capacity will drop if you mix bottle sizes.

Front ventilation lets you install it under a counter. You can also use it as a freestanding unit. A glass door lets you check stock without opening it.

The internal fan helps spread cold air. A carbon filter helps control stale odors.

What you may like

• Holds a large drink supply
• Built-in or freestanding use
• Front ventilation
• Slide-out shelves
• Glass door
• Fan-based cooling
• Interior carbon filter

What to consider

• Not a main food refrigerator
• Mixed bottle sizes reduce capacity
• Glass can show fingerprints
• A clear door may lose more cold air

Best for

You want cold drinks in a bar, game room, office, or media room.

Wine collectors may prefer a model with wine-focused racks. See these high-end wine fridge options for that use.

9. True T-23-HC — Best Commercial

The True T-23-HC is made for food service. It can handle frequent door openings in a busy kitchen.

Its solid door closes by itself. A door lock helps control access. Heavy shelves hold food pans, containers, and bulk supplies.

The cabinet keeps food between 33°F and 38°F under proper conditions. It also uses R290 refrigerant and has ENERGY STAR certification.

This model weighs far more than a home fridge. It can also make more sound. That comes from its large fans and commercial cooling parts.

What you may like

• Designed for heavy daily use
• Self-closing solid door
• Adjustable commercial shelves
• Door lock
• Rolling casters
• Bright interior light
• ENERGY STAR certification

What to consider

• High price
• Heavy cabinet
• More sound than many home models
• Commercial styling
• Needs space for air flow

Best for

You run a café, restaurant, shop, church kitchen, or food prep area.

10. Bosch Benchmark B30IR905SP — Premium Pick

The Bosch Benchmark B30IR905SP is a premium refrigerator column. It sits flush with nearby cabinets when installed the right way.

A custom panel hides the front. That lets the refrigerator match your cabinet doors. Its flat hinge also helps prevent contact with nearby cabinets.

You get 16.8 cubic feet of storage. Bright lights make the full interior easy to see. You can also check some settings through Bosch’s connected app.

This built in freezerless refrigerator requires a large budget. The door panel, handle, cabinets, and labor may add a lot.

What you may like

• Flush built-in design
• Custom panel-ready front
• Large refrigerator-only interior
• Bright LED lights
• Connected controls
• ENERGY STAR certification

What to consider

• Very high purchase price
• Panel and handle may cost extra
• Needs skilled installation
• Hard to move after installation

Best for

You want a hidden refrigerator column in a custom kitchen. Design and fit matter more than price.

What is a freezerless refrigerator?

A freezerless refrigerator is a fridge with no freezer section. The full cabinet keeps fresh food and drinks cold.

You may also see these names:

• All-refrigerator
• Refrigerator-only unit
• Single-door refrigerator
• Refrigerator column
• Freezerless fridge

A small compact fridge may have a freezer box inside. That is not a true freezerless refrigerator. Check the interior photos before you choose.

Most models keep food near normal fridge temperatures. Many offer shelves, produce bins, and large door racks. Some focus only on drinks.

Who should buy one?

A freezerless refrigerator works best when freezer space is not your main need. It also helps when you already own a separate freezer.

You may want one if:

• You buy lots of fresh food
• You store meal-prep containers
• Your family uses many cold drinks
• You have an upright or chest freezer
• You need overflow space for parties
• You run a small food business
• You want a fridge in your garage
• Your office needs shared food storage
• You want separate fridge and freezer columns

It can also help gardeners and hunters. You can store fresh produce, chilled meat, or packed meals. Follow safe food storage rules at all times.

A small office may only need four cubic feet. A large family may need 17 cubic feet or more.

Freezerless vs standard refrigerator

A standard refrigerator splits its space between cooling and freezing. A freezerless model uses the whole cabinet for chilled storage.

A normal fridge makes sense if you need one appliance for all food. A freezerless unit works better with a separate freezer.

This split setup has one key benefit. You can choose how much space each side gets.

You might pair a 20-cubic-foot fridge with a small chest freezer. Or you could place two matching columns together.

If frozen storage matters most, compare units in this garage freezer guide.

Pros and cons

The right choice depends on your food habits. A large empty fridge can waste space and power. A small one can feel crowded each week.

Pros of a freezerless refrigerator

• More fresh-food space: No freezer takes up the upper shelf.
• Better shelf access: You can see more food at once.
• Simple sorting: Wide shelves hold trays and meal boxes.
• Good for drinks: Door bins and shelves hold many cans.
• Flexible pairing: You can choose a separate freezer size.
• Useful overflow space: It can reduce crowding in your kitchen.
• Many size choices: Options range from compact to commercial.

Cons of a freezerless refrigerator

• No frozen storage: You may need another appliance.
• Few dispenser options: Water and ice features are uncommon.
• Higher total cost: A fridge and freezer pair costs more.
• More floor space: Two cabinets need a wide area.
• Limited store stock: Local choices may be small.
• Built-in costs: Panels and trim can raise the final bill.

These are the main freezerless refrigerator pros and cons. Think about your weekly food load before choosing a size.

Common sizes

Freezerless refrigerators come in several forms. The right size depends on your room and food needs.

Compact: 1.5 to 5 cubic feet

Compact units work in offices, bedrooms, and workshops. Most stand under 34 inches tall.

They hold snacks, drinks, and a few meal containers. They do not replace a main family refrigerator.

Mid-size: 7 to 13 cubic feet

Mid-size models suit apartments and guest suites. They also work in small break rooms.

These units provide useful storage without needing a wide opening. Some are narrow and tall.

Full-size: 16 to 20 cubic feet

Full-size models serve families and bulk buyers. They often include produce drawers and gallon door bins.

Most are 28 to 33 inches wide. Their depth can exceed a kitchen counter.

Built-in columns: 12 to 20 cubic feet

Column refrigerators fit inside custom cabinets. Many accept a matching door panel.

They often measure 24 or 30 inches wide. Most stand about 84 inches tall.

Commercial: 20 cubic feet and up

Commercial refrigerators use stronger parts. They are made for frequent daily access.

They may run louder and take more power. They also need more room around the cooling system.

Energy usage

A freezerless refrigerator can use less power than a large combo model. Yet size and design still matter.

Check the yellow EnergyGuide label. It shows estimated yearly power use and cost. The cost uses a set power rate, so your bill may differ.

An ENERGY STAR freezerless refrigerator meets set efficiency rules. It can be a good starting point. You should still compare annual kilowatt-hours between models.

What affects energy use?

• Cabinet size
• Room temperature
• Door opening rate
• Seal condition
• Temperature setting
• Air space around the unit
• Amount of food inside
• Age of the cooling parts
• Glass or solid door design

A hot garage makes the cooling system work harder. Direct sun can also raise power use.

Do not set the temperature lower than needed. Keep the fridge at a safe food temperature. A simple fridge thermometer can help.

Why are freezerless refrigerators so expensive?

Some models cost more because they sell in lower numbers. Makers produce far more standard refrigerators.

Other cost factors include:

• Built-in hinges
• Custom panel support
• Stainless finishes
• Large cooling systems
• Better seals
• Digital controls
• Garage temperature testing
• Commercial parts
• Matching trim kits

A compact model can still be affordable. Premium columns sit at the other end of the price range.

Garage-ready vs indoor models

A garage can become very hot or cold. An indoor kitchen stays within a tighter range.

That difference affects cooling. A standard fridge may struggle during a hot summer. It may also act in odd ways during a cold winter.

A garage ready freezerless refrigerator is tested for a wider room temperature range. Yet each model has its own limits.

For example, one model may run from 0°F to 110°F. Another may need the room to stay above 38°F.

Always check both limits. The “garage ready” label does not mean every climate.

Use an indoor model in a garage only if:

• The room stays within its rated range
• The floor remains dry
• The outlet has proper grounding
• Air can flow around the cabinet
• Sunlight does not heat the door
• You can check the food temperature

Do not rely on how cold the food feels. Use a thermometer inside the cabinet.

Buying guide

The best freezerless refrigerator should fit your room and your food habits. A high rating alone cannot tell you that.

Use these points before you make a short list.

Measure the full space

Measure the width, height, and depth. Add room for air flow and the power cord.

Then check the door swing. A wide door may hit a wall, island, or tool cabinet.

Measure these areas:

1. Cabinet opening
2. Path from the entry door
3. Hallway width
4. Stairway turns
5. Door clearance
6. Ventilation space
7. Outlet location

Do not measure only your old fridge. Its shape may differ from the new one.

Choose the right installation type

A freestanding refrigerator needs air around its outer shell. It should not be boxed into cabinets unless the manual allows it.

A built-in model vents heat through the front or top. It can fit closer to cabinets.

A panel-ready model needs a custom door panel. That panel must meet set size and weight rules.

Check the rated room temperature

This point matters most in garages and sheds. Find the lowest and highest rated room temperatures.

Compare those limits with your local weather. An unheated garage can fall below the safe range.

Review the shelf layout

Look beyond total capacity. Shelf shape can matter more than one extra cubic foot.

Ask these questions:

• Can shelves move?
• Will gallon jugs fit?
• Is there room for a large tray?
• Are the produce drawers deep?
• Can door bins hold tall bottles?
• Are shelves glass or wire?
• Can you remove a shelf for large items?

Look for useful alarms

A door alarm can prevent food loss. A high-temperature alarm offers more help in a garage.

Some premium models can send phone alerts. That feature may help with a second fridge.

Compare warranty coverage

Check coverage for the full appliance and cooling system. Also review labor terms.

A long parts warranty does not always include labor. Service access matters too. Some brands have fewer repair teams in rural areas.

Read owner feedback with care

The highest rated freezerless refrigerator is not always the best fit. A compact drink fridge may earn great scores but fail as a family fridge.

Look for repeated comments about:

• Temperature control
• Compressor sound
• Door seals
• Shelf strength
• Parts access
• Repair delays
• Frost or water buildup
• Shipping damage

The most reliable freezerless refrigerator may also be the simpler one. Extra screens and connected parts add more failure points.

Think about sound

The quietest freezerless refrigerator will often use a small, modern compressor. Built-in cabinets may also reduce some sound.

Yet the room changes what you hear. Hard floors and bare walls can make a soft hum seem loud.

Commercial units often make more sound. Place them away from desks, bedrooms, and living rooms.

Decide whether you need water or ice

A freezerless refrigerator with ice maker is rare. Most ice makers need a frozen compartment.

You may need a separate ice machine instead. A countertop ice maker can serve a small office or bar.

A freezerless refrigerator with water dispenser is also uncommon. Built-in water dispensers need a filter, tank, valve, and water line.

You can use a filtered water pitcher instead. It costs less and needs no plumbing.

Capacity guide

Capacity is measured in cubic feet. This number helps, but shelf design also affects real storage.

Use the guide below as a starting point.

These ranges are not firm rules. A person who cooks daily may need more room. A household that eats out may need less.

Compact storage example

A 4.4-cubic-foot unit can hold:

• Cans and bottles
• Several lunch boxes
• Small food containers
• Condiments
• A small supply of produce

Large pizza boxes and party trays may not fit.

Full-size storage example

An 18-to-20-cubic-foot unit can hold:

• Weekly family groceries
• Bulk drinks
• Large produce loads
• Meal-prep boxes
• Party trays
• Extra holiday food

Do not pack every shelf tight. Cold air needs space to move.

Installation tips

Good installation helps the refrigerator cool well. It can also reduce noise and power use.

Before delivery

Measure every doorway on the delivery path. Remove doors or gates if needed.

Check the outlet type and location. Do not plan to use a power strip or basic extension cord.

Place it on a firm floor

The floor should stay flat and dry. A tilted fridge may not seal or drain well.

Use the front feet to level the cabinet. The door may need a slight backward tilt to close well.

Leave ventilation space

Follow the maker’s clearance rules. Each model may need different space.

Common areas include:

• Above the cabinet
• Behind the unit
• Along both sides
• Near the lower front vent

Blocked air flow traps heat. That makes the compressor run longer.

Let the unit rest after moving

A refrigerator may need time to stand before startup. This lets the cooling fluid settle.

The needed time depends on how it was moved. Follow the manual before plugging it in.

Set and test the temperature

Let the empty refrigerator cool before adding food. Place a thermometer near the center shelf.

Check several areas after 24 hours. The door will often feel warmer than the rear shelf.

Load food with air gaps

Leave space between large boxes. Do not block air vents with bags or bottles.

Keep food away from the coldest rear wall. Some items may freeze there.

Protect a garage installation

Keep the refrigerator away from:

• Direct sun
• Rain
• Standing water
• Heaters
• Dusty cutting tools
• Paint fumes
• Fuel cans

Clean dust from the vent area. Garage dust can build up faster than kitchen dust.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are freezerless refrigerators good?

Yes, freezerless refrigerators are good for fresh food and drink storage. They provide more chilled space than a standard fridge of the same size.

They work best if you own a separate freezer. They also make good second refrigerators.

What is the best freezerless refrigerator?

The Frigidaire FRAE2024AW is a strong general choice. It offers 20 cubic feet of space and a wide garage-ready range.

Your best choice may differ. A small office needs less space. A custom kitchen may need a built-in column.

Can you put a freezerless refrigerator in a garage?

Yes, if the model is rated for garage temperatures. Check both the lowest and highest room temperature limits.

Do not assume every “garage-ready” model handles deep winter cold.

Does a freezerless refrigerator use less power?

It can, but not always. Size, room heat, seals, and door use all affect energy use.

Compare the EnergyGuide labels. Focus on annual kilowatt-hours rather than cabinet size alone.

Can a freezerless refrigerator make ice?

Most cannot make ice. Ice needs a temperature below the freezing point.

A few special systems may use a separate ice section. These models are not common.

Can you get a freezerless refrigerator with a water dispenser?

Options are limited. Most all-refrigerator models do not include a door dispenser.

A filtered pitcher offers a simple option. It also avoids water-line installation.

Is a freezerless refrigerator the same as a beverage cooler?

No. A food refrigerator must keep food within a safe cold range.

Some beverage coolers run warmer. Check the lowest setting before storing milk, meat, or other food.

How long does a freezerless refrigerator last?

Life span depends on use, room heat, care, and repair access. There is no fixed life for every model.

You can reduce strain by cleaning vents and checking door seals. Leave the required air space around the cabinet.

Why is my freezerless refrigerator freezing food?

The setting may be too cold. Food may also sit against a cold rear wall or air vent.

Move sensitive food toward the center. Then check the temperature with a fridge thermometer.

Do freezerless refrigerators need a water line?

Most do not. A basic all-refrigerator only needs a safe power outlet.

A model with a water dispenser would need a water line. Always check the installation guide.

Is counter-depth the same as built-in?

No. A counter-depth unit is shallower than many standard refrigerators. It may still stick out past the cabinets.

A built-in unit fits into a planned opening. It often vents from the front or top.

Can you pair a freezerless refrigerator with any freezer?

Yes, if you do not need a matching look. The refrigerator and freezer can be separate brands.

Matching columns create a cleaner kitchen design. They may also use a shared trim kit.

Is a freezerless refrigerator worth it for an office?

It can be. A freezerless design gives workers more room for lunch boxes and drinks.

Choose an easy-clean model with adjustable shelves. Avoid a loud commercial unit near desks.

Final Thoughts

A freezerless refrigerator makes sense when chilled space matters most. It can clear kitchen clutter and store more fresh food. It can also turn a garage or office into a useful cold-storage area.

The Frigidaire FRAE2024AW offers the best mix for many homes. The Danby DAR044A4BDD suits small rooms and tight budgets. The Gladiator stands out for garage features, while the True T-23-HC serves commercial spaces.

Focus on fit before features. Check room temperature, door clearance, shelf layout, and energy use. Those details will shape your daily experience more than finish or brand name.