Drinks fridge sizes and dimensions

Typical sizes by type

These are typical ranges for glass-door drinks fridges sold in the UK. Individual models vary, so always check the listing.

Litres, cans and bottles

Litres measure the internal volume, not how many drinks fit. Shelves, the cold plate and gaps for air all take space. Makers sometimes give a can count, usually for 330 ml cans packed tightly. As a rough rule, small 40 litre fridges hold a few dozen cans, and under-counter models hold many more.

Bottles take more space than cans, and tall wine bottles may need a shelf removed. If you plan to keep wine too, see wine fridge vs drinks fridge.

Under-counter sizes and kitchens

UK worktops are usually around 90 cm from the floor, so under-counter drinks fridges are built about 82 to 85 cm high to slide beneath. Freestanding under-counter models vent at the back and need gaps; only front-vented models should be built in flush. Check the listing.

Width is usually 60 cm to match a standard base unit. For narrower gaps, look for slim models.

How to measure

Measure the space and add the ventilation gaps from the manual, typically a few centimetres at the back and sides for freestanding models, and some space above.

1. 1

   Measure height, width and depth of the space.

2. 2

   Add ventilation gaps stated in the manual.

3. 3

   Allow for the door swing and handle.

4. 4

   Measure doorways and stairs on the delivery route.

5. 5

   Check the socket is within reach of the lead.

Choosing the right size

A table-top fridge suits a desk, study or bedroom; see drinks fridge in a bedroom. An under-counter model suits a kitchen, utility or home bar, and a tall model suits a busy home bar, garden room or games room.

Bigger is not always better. A half-empty large fridge uses more energy than a well-filled smaller one; see drinks fridge running cost. Our beer and drinks fridge guide compares models by size and capacity.

Compare drinks fridges by size →

Depth and door opening

Depth is often overlooked. A deep fridge in a narrow room can stick out past cupboards, and a glass door needs space to swing open fully so shelves can slide out. Some doors only allow shelves out when opened past 90 degrees, which matters next to a wall.

If space in front is tight, look at sliding vs hinged doors.

Sizes for home bars and garden rooms

A home bar or garden room often ends up with a bigger fridge than first planned, because it becomes the place for party stock, mixers and wine as well as beer. Think about how many people you usually host and how often you restock. A single under-counter model suits most households; a tall upright model or two under-counter fridges side by side suit frequent entertaining.

In a garden room or summer house, also check the climate class, as some fridges are not designed for rooms that get very cold in winter or hot in summer; see can you put a drinks fridge outside. Leave space for the door to open fully and for air to move around the back, as outbuildings are often tight on room.

If the fridge will be on show, think about height too. An under-counter model keeps sight lines open in a small room, while a tall glass-door fridge becomes a feature. Both need a level floor and a socket within reach of the lead, as fridges should not run from extension leads.

Frequently asked questions

What is the standard size of a beverage fridge? Under-counter models are commonly about 60 cm wide and 82 to 85 cm high.

How wide is a mini drinks fridge? Often around 40 to 48 cm.

How many cans fit in a 40 litre drinks fridge? Usually a few dozen 330 ml cans, depending on the shelves.

Can a freestanding drinks fridge go under a worktop? Only if the maker says it is suitable or front-vented.