Keeping food and drinks cold in your garage can be challenging, especially during the hot summer. Unlike a kitchen refrigerator, a garage refrigerator must be durable and designed specifically for workshop, basement, or garage use. The right garage refrigerator should maintain safe temperatures, even in hot conditions, while also being resistant to dust, moisture, and workshop messes.
In this article, we’ve researched and reviewed the top-rated garage refrigerators in 2023. We evaluated critical factors like temperature performance, storage capacity, durability, and unique features. Our picks for the best garage refrigerators range from compact mini-fridges to large double-door models so that you can find the right fit for your needs and budget.
Whether you’re an avid home mechanic looking for a garage beer fridge or a hobbyist needing extra cold storage, these refrigerator recommendations will
BLACK+DECKER BCRK25B Compact Refrigerator Energy Star Single Door Mini Fridge
The BLACK+DECKER BCRK25B Compact Refrigerator is an Energy Star-certified mini fridge with a single door and a freezer. It has a capacity of 2.5 cubic feet and comes in a sleek, modern design available in black, stainless steel, and white. The compact size (17.5″ x 18.5″ x 26.6″) makes it perfect for small spaces such as college dorm rooms, offices, garages, home bars, small apartments, and RV campers.
Despite its small size, this refrigerator offers a large storage capacity. It features two removable glass shelves that expand the storage space and make the fridge easy to clean. The door storage can accommodate five 12 oz. cans, small containers on the top shelf, and 2-liter bottles in the door storage. The small freezer (12.8 inches wide x 4.3 inches tall) can fit ice packs most frozen dinners and comes with an included ice tray.
This mini fridge has convenient features such as a reversible door, leveling legs, and adjustable temperature control, which can go as low as 32 degrees Fahrenheit. It operates quietly (45dB), making it suitable for places where noise is not desirable.
The product comes with a one-year warranty for parts and labor and a two-year warranty for the compressor part. It is made in China and weighs 41.9 pounds. The fridge is freestanding, has a manual defrost system, and uses 115 volts. It is made of steel and does not require batteries.
However, some users have reported issues with the door seal being warped, which affects the cooling efficiency of the fridge. Despite these issues, the BLACK+DECKER BCRK25B Compact Refrigerator remains a practical choice for those seeking a compact yet spacious refrigeration solution.
Frigidaire EFR751, 2 Door Apartment Size Refrigerator
The Frigidaire EFR751 is a stylish, two-door apartment-sized refrigerator with a freezer. It belongs to the Platinum Series and features a stainless steel design. The unit offers 7.5 cubic feet of cooling space, making it suitable for various households, including kitchens, dormitories, or recreation rooms.
The refrigerator is equipped with easy-to-use mechanical controls and an adjustable thermostat. It also boasts three adjustable, slide-out glass shelves, one transparent vegetable crisper, and four clear door shelves. The freezer compartment includes an adjustable/removable wire shelf for maximum and versatile storage space. The refrigerator’s interior is illuminated, making it easy to locate items.
The unit is designed with a manual defrost system and is CFC-free, making it environmentally friendly. The door hinge is reversible, allowing for left or right-handed opening. The refrigerator can be installed against a wall due to its smooth back design.
The Frigidaire EFR751 weighs 90 pounds and has dimensions of 21.5 x 22.4 x 55.5 inches. It is manufactured in China and has an annual energy consumption of 378 Kilowatt Hours per year. The refrigerator’s fresh food capacity is 6 cubic feet, while the freezer’s capacity is 2 cubic feet.
The refrigerator is freestanding and has a top freezer form factor. It has unique features like a reversible door and is certified by ETL. The door material is stainless steel, and the shelves are glass. The refrigerator does not require batteries for operation.
However, it’s important to note that the refrigerator may not function optimally in colder weather or places without climate control. In such conditions, the fridge part can have temperatures that exceed 42f, which is not ideal for storing average food.
Despite this, the Frigidaire EFR751 has received positive reviews for its performance and durability, even in extreme temperatures. However, some customers have reported receiving the product with dents due to light packaging.
Midea WHD-113FSS1 Compact Refrigerator
The Midea WHD-113FSS1 Compact Refrigerator is a versatile and efficient appliance that offers the functionality of a full-sized refrigerator in a compact size. With a capacity of 3.1 cubic feet, this stainless steel refrigerator is designed to fit any space due to its free-standing design. It features two removable glass shelves and two transparent drawers for efficiently organizing and storing more oversized or odd-shaped items. The refrigerator also includes a 2L bottle rack for convenient storage of beverages.
One of the standout features of this refrigerator is its whisper-quiet technology. The compressor operates silently, making it an ideal choice for spaces that require quiet, such as bedrooms, dorm rooms, tiny homes, and RVs. The refrigerator also uses low-energy, high-power LED lights to illuminate the interior, allowing users to quickly assess their food’s freshness.
The Midea WHD-113FSS1 Compact Refrigerator also boasts adjustable thermostats and temperature ranges for refrigerator and freezer compartments. The refrigerator compartment can be set between 32′ to 50′ F, while the freezer compartment can range from -11.2′ to 5’F. This allows users to keep their chilled goods at their optimum temperatures.
The refrigerator has a reversible door hinge and adjustable legs, which provide installation flexibility. The door can be installed to open either to the left or right, and the front legs can be adjusted to stabilize the refrigerator at different heights. This makes it easy to fit the fridge in any spot in your room.
This model also has an automatic defrost feature, simplifying the cleaning process. It weighs 52.2 pounds and measures 19.4 x 18.5 x 32.95 inches. The refrigerator operates with Energy Star efficiency, making it an environmentally friendly choice.
Established in 1968, Midea Group is a globally recognized manufacturer of high-quality, high-value appliances. Their commitment to clean technologies and manufacturing processes results in reliable, efficient devices that improve the lives of millions worldwide.
Midea WHD-113FB1 Double Door Mini Fridge
The Midea WHD-113FB1 is a compact, double-door mini fridge with a freezer, perfect for bedrooms, offices, or dorms. It has a total capacity of 3.1 cubic feet, with the fresh food section having 2.2 cubic feet and the freezer section having 0.9 cubic feet. The fridge comes in black and features adjustable, removable glass shelves, making it easy to accommodate larger or odd-shaped items.
The refrigerator’s thermostat is easily adjustable, allowing you to maintain an optimum temperature for your chilled goods. The temperature range for the fridge part is 33.8℉-50.0℉（1℃-10℃）and -11.2F to 10.4F （-24℃ to -12℃ ）for the freezer part.
The Midea WHD-113FB1 also features a reversible door hinge and adjustable legs, which means the door can be installed to open either left or right, and the fridge can be stabilized at different heights. This makes it easy to fit the fridge in any spot in your room.
The fridge has an advanced compressor that ensures quiet and efficient operation. It also uses low energy high, power LED lights to illuminate your food, helping you sense the freshness immediately.
The fridge also includes a 2L bottle rack and two transparent drawers for easy organization. The product dimensions are 19.37″D x 18.5″ W x 32.95″H, weighing 52.2 pounds.
The Midea WHD-113FB1 is designed to operate with Energy Star efficiency, offering separate fridge and freezer sections with plenty of space for produce, snacks, and frozen treats. It comes with a full 1-year warranty.
The fridge is manufactured by Midea Group, a company in the Fortune 500 list of global companies known for its dedication to design, production, and technological innovation improvements.
Danby Designer DAR110A1BSLDD 11 Cu.Ft. Apartment Refrigerator
The Danby Designer DAR110A1BSLDD is an 11 cubic feet apartment refrigerator designed to fit condos, houses, and small kitchens perfectly. It boasts a spotless steel door finish that mimics the look of real stainless steel without the issue of smudging. The refrigerator is Energy Star rated, indicating its energy efficiency, which can help reduce power bills.
This model features a single door with an integrated handle and a clever, reversible hinge, allowing users to set it for right or left-handed opening. The interior is neatly organized and illuminated by a powerful lighting system, making it easy to arrange items on the four-and-a-half adjustable glass shelves, the integrated door shelves, and the glass-covered vegetable crisper.
The refrigerator also has ample room for large and tall bottles. It comes with a mechanical thermostat and an automatic defrost system. The refrigerator’s dimensions are 26.06″D x 23.93″ W x 58.75″H, weighing 130.1 pounds.
The product has received positive customer reviews, with one noting that it keeps drinks colder than Alaska during winter and another praising its ability to accommodate large platters and tall bottles. However, one customer reported an issue with the door not staying shut. The product has an 18-month warranty on parts and labor and convenient in-home service.
Danby Contemporary Classic DAR044A6LDB Retro Fridge
The Danby Contemporary Classic DAR044A6LDB is a retro-inspired compact refrigerator that combines mid-century styling with modern functionality. The fridge features a unique curved door design, a metallic red finish, and a chrome worktop, all complemented by its signature black interior. It offers 4.4 cubic feet (124 liters) of storage and cooling space, including two-and-a-half chrome-trimmed tempered glass shelves and a vegetable crisper with a glass top.
The fridge is designed for convenience, with a reversible door hinge that can be adjusted for left- or right-handed opening. It also includes an efficient CanStor beverage dispenser and a reliable interior white LED light. The unit is Energy Star rated, helping to keep electricity bills in check with its state-of-the-art mechanical thermostat. Maintenance and cleaning are made easy with the automatic defrost system.
Despite its compact size, the fridge has ample room for larger bottles. Its smooth back design allows it to fit anywhere in your room. However, some users have noted issues with temperature variance between the top and bottom shelves, and the positioning of the frames may not be ideal for taller beer bottles. Some users also reported noise from the compressor and difficulty leveling the fridge. Despite these issues, many users praised the fridge’s aesthetic appeal and quick cooling performance.
NewAir 15″ Outdoor Beverage Refrigerator
The NewAir 15″ Outdoor Beverage Refrigerator is a versatile and durable appliance that enhances any outdoor entertainment space. With its robust, food-grade, 304 stainless-steel finish, this fridge is built to withstand various weather conditions, including intense heat, rain, ice, or snow. It can hold up to 90 standard (12 fl. oz) cans, making it an ideal choice for parties and gatherings.
One of the critical features of this outdoor fridge is its ability to maintain temperatures as low as 32°F, even in scorching climates, ensuring your beverages stay cold. The refrigerator also has an auto-closing door with a lock, providing added security and maintaining the internal temperature by preventing accidental leaving open.
The NewAir 15” Outdoor Beverage Fridge offers adjustable shelves, allowing you to customize the storage space to fit cans, bottles, and packaged foods. It also features easy-glide casters for mobility, enabling you to move the fridge around your outdoor space as needed.
Thanks to its flushed hinges and a recessed kickplate, this fridge can be installed as a built-in unit to any standard 15” counter. Alternatively, it can also function as a freestanding unit. The refrigerator is equipped with a door-activated LED light, which makes it easy to find what you’re looking for, even in low-light conditions.
The NewAir 15″ Outdoor Beverage Refrigerator operates on 120 volts and consumes 250 kilowatt-hours annually. It weighs 61.8 pounds and measures 23.25 x 15 x 36 inches. This fridge is freezerless and comes with four wire shelves. It does not require batteries for operation.
RCA RFR322 Mini Refrigerator
The RCA RFR322 Mini Refrigerator is a compact and versatile appliance that blends style, functionality, and energy efficiency. With dimensions of 18.5 x 17.7 x 32.8 inches and a capacity of 3.2 cubic feet, this mini fridge is an ideal choice for small spaces such as dorm rooms, offices, apartments, or even motorhomes. Despite its compact size, it offers generous storage space with two detachable shelves that can be adjusted to accommodate taller items.
The refrigerator also features a freezer compartment with a capacity of 0.2 cubic feet, perfect for storing frozen foods or ice cream. The fridge’s interior design includes two full-width internal shelves, a dispense-a-can storage on the door for easy access to soda and juice cans, and two full-width door shelves for extra bottle storage.
One of the standout features of the RCA RFR322 Mini Refrigerator is its adjustable thermostat control, which allows users to maintain their food and drinks at the ideal temperature. It also has a reversible door and adjustable leveling legs, making it adaptable to any location.
The refrigerator is made of stainless steel, ensuring durability and longevity. It operates on 110 volts and consumes 200 kilowatt-hours annually, making it an energy-efficient choice. The fridge also comes with a bonus feature – an interior light, which is not mentioned in the product description but has been appreciated by users.
Despite its compact size, the RCA RFR322 Mini Refrigerator does not compromise on style. It comes in various bold and glossy colors, adding a touch of elegance to any room. The sleek design and cutting-edge refrigeration technology make this mini fridge popular among consumers.
However, some users have reported issues with the temperature dial being off and the bottom shelves not cooling as effectively as the top ones. Despite these minor issues, the overall user feedback for the RCA RFR322 Mini Refrigerator is positive, with many praising its quiet operation, ample storage space, and value for money.
Frigidaire EFMIS129-RED Mini Portable Compact Personal Fridge Cooler
The Frigidaire EFMIS129-RED Mini Portable Compact Personal Fridge Cooler is a versatile and compact appliance designed for personal use. With a capacity of 1 gallon, it can chill up to six 12 oz. cans, making it perfect for storing beverages, snacks, or even skincare products. The fridge’s interior dimensions are 5 x 5 x 7.5 inches and includes a removable shelf for flexible storage options.
This mini fridge is not only portable, weighing just 3 pounds, but also versatile with its ability to switch from cooling to heating at the flip of a switch. It can cool up to 32°F below ambient temperature and warm up to 140°F at an ambient temperature of 75°F. This makes it ideal for various settings such as homes, offices, hotels, sporting events, and outdoor parties.
The fridge is designed with advanced thermoelectric technology, which uses semiconductors free of CFCs and refrigerants, making it environmentally friendly. It is also 100% Freon-Free and ETL-approved, ensuring long-lasting durability.
Despite its compact size (9.84″D x 7.09″ W x 10.35″H), the fridge offers ample storage space. Its removable shelf can accommodate small items like yogurt, fruit, milk, and bottles. The refrigerator also features a flush-back design and a reversible door, allowing multiple placement options in any room.
The fridge operates on 110 volts and has an automatic defrost system. It comes with a manual and can be easily installed on a tabletop or other portable surfaces. The fridge is red, adding a vibrant touch to its surroundings.
However, it’s important to note that the outside temperature can influence the fridge’s effectiveness and may collect some water inside over time. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Frigidaire EFMIS129-RED Mini Portable Compact Personal Fridge Cooler offers convenience, quiet operation, and affordability, making it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a personal cooling solution.
Danby DAR044A6MDB-6 4.4 Cu.Ft. Mini Fridge
The Danby DAR044A6MDB-6 is a compact, 4.4 cubic feet mini fridge ideal for additional refrigerator space in various settings such as the kitchen, basement, family room, dorm, or office. It is part of Danby’s patented Contemporary Classic collection, which draws inspiration from mid-century styling and simplicity, reimagining retro designs for the modern consumer.
This mini fridge features a unique retro-inspired curved door design, various metallic door finishes, a rubber-grip ergonomic handle, and a stylized worktop. Its signature black interior complements its exterior features. The fridge boasts ample storage and cooling space, including tall bottle storage and two-and-a-half tempered glass shelves for easy organization.
The fridge also includes an illuminated interior with energy-efficient LED lighting, which helps cut costs on your energy bill. It has a built-in CanStor beverage dispenser for organized and accessible drink storage. The smooth back design allows for flush installation near a wall, and the reversible door hinge can be adjusted for either left or right-handed door opening.
The fridge is freestanding, has an automatic defrost system, and is Energy Star rated. It also features a scratch-resistant worktop. Despite its compact size, it has a substantial weight of 59.3 pounds. The fridge operates quietly at 30 dB and consumes 288 Kilowatt Hours per year.
However, some users have reported issues with temperature regulation, with a significant difference between the top and bottom shelves. Some users also noted problems with the door suction being too tight, causing bottles to shake when opened. Despite these issues, many users praised the fridge for its aesthetic appeal and efficient cooling performance.