Looking for a good fridge that won’t cost you a fortune? We took on the challenge of finding the best refrigerators under $500, and the results were surprisingly great! We found small to medium-sized fridges from top brands like LG and Frigidaire that are not only affordable but also reliable. These fridges are perfect for small spaces, like tiny kitchens, or college dorms, or as a second fridge in your home office. So, if you want a quality fridge without spending too much, check out our list of the best fridges under $500. Once you’ve picked your new fridge, we’ll show you how to keep it organized with our favorite fridge organizers or use it for extra storage.

Top 7 Best Refrigerators Under $500

ProductTitleSpecialtyBuy Now
Affordable refrigerators under $500 BUY Now

FRIGIDAIRE Portable 10L, 15-can Mini Fridge 

Budget-friendly fridges BUY Now

PremiumLevella 7.3 cu ft Energy Star

Top-rated low-cost refrigeratorBUY Now

BLACK+DECKER BCRK32B Compact Refrigerator

Inexpensive fridge options BUY Now

GE GTS17DTNRBB 28 Inch Black Freestanding 

Best cheap refrigeratorBUY Now

Midea WHD-113FSS1 Compact Refrigerator

Quality refrigerators on a budget BUY Now

Galanz GLR40TRDER Retro Compact Refrigerator

Cost-effective fridge choices BUY Now

1-Danby DFF070B1BSLDB-6 7.0 Cu.Ft.

Introducing the Danby DFF070B1BSLDB-6, your ideal midsize refrigerator that’s perfect for apartments, offices, and condos. This sleek and modern appliance not only looks stunning with its smudge-free stainless finish and hidden hinges but also offers exceptional functionality for your food storage needs. Say goodbye to the hassle of manual defrosting, thanks to its frost-free operation that prevents ice buildup. With 7 cubic feet of space, adjustable glass shelves, a clear vegetable crisper, and three-door shelves, this refrigerator offers ample storage. Plus, it’s energy-efficient, so you don’t need to worry about high electricity bills. Let’s explore its features in detail:

the Danby DFF070B1BSLDB-6 is a standout choice among the best refrigerators under $500. Its combination of style, functionality, and energy efficiency makes it an excellent addition to any home or office space, offering convenient storage and hassle-free maintenance. Say hello to freshness and convenience without breaking the bank!

Key Features

  • Spacious 7 Cu.Ft. Capacity: With 7 cubic feet (198 liters) of space, this apartment-sized fridge provides ample room for your groceries and beverages.
  • Frost-Free Operation: Enjoy maintenance-free use as the unit automatically defrosts to prevent ice buildup, ensuring your food stays fresh.
  • Adjustable Shelving: Customize your storage with three adjustable glass shelves and three fixed-door shelves, including space for tall bottles.
  • Reversible Door: The reversible door design allows for a left or right swing, fitting seamlessly into your space.
  • Clear Vegetable Crisper: Keep your fruits and vegetables fresh and visible in the clear crisper drawer.
  • LED Lighting: The interior features bright LED lighting, so you can easily find what you need, even in low light.
  • Modern Stainless Look: The smudge-free stainless steel finish adds a touch of elegance to your kitchen.
  • Controlled Airflow: The refrigerator maintains controlled airflow without compromising storage capacity.
  • Energy Star Certified: Rest easy knowing it’s energy-efficient and won’t consume excessive power.

 

Pros
  • Ample storage space for a midsize refrigerator.
  • No need for manual defrosting, ensuring hassle-free maintenance.
  • Adjustable shelving and clear crisper for organized storage.
  • Reversible door and sleek design for flexibility and style.
  • Energy-efficient operation to save on electricity bills.
Cons
  • May not be suitable for larger households with higher storage needs.
  • Limited color options (available in black stainless look).

2-FRIGIDAIRE Portable 10L, 15-can Mini Fridge Brushed Stainless Rugged Refrigerator,

Introducing the FRIGIDAIRE Portable Mini Fridge – your personal, on-the-go cooling solution that delivers maximum chill wherever you need it. This compact and versatile mini fridge is designed to keep your food and drinks at the perfect temperature, whether you’re at home, in the office, or out and about. With a 10-liter capacity, it can cool up to 15 12 oz. cans and offers you the freedom to store a variety of items, from beverages to snacks and even makeup products. It’s a must-have for personal spaces, dorm rooms, road trips, and more, providing convenience and flexibility with its portable design. Let’s delve into the features that make this mini fridge stand out:

the FRIGIDAIRE Portable Mini Fridge is a versatile and portable cooling solution that’s both practical and affordable. Whether you’re looking to keep your drinks icy cold or your skincare products fresh, this mini fridge has you covered. Its ease of use and adaptability make it a valuable addition to your daily life, ensuring you have the refreshments you need, wherever you are. Chill out and stay refreshed with this mini fridge under $500!

Key Features

  • Multi-Purpose Cooling: Perfect for storing lunches, drinks, beers, baby bottles, or even cosmetics. Keeps your items fresh and at the right temperature with its thermoelectric cooling method.
  • Makeup Storage: Extend the shelf life of your favorite skincare products by keeping them chilled. Ideal for makeup application at home or on the go.
  • Quiet Operation: Thanks to its thermoelectric cooling system, there’s no noisy compressor to disturb you.
  • Compact and Portable: Equipped with a convenient carrying handle, making it easy to transport from place to place. Perfect for home, office, dorms, or road trips.
  • Generous Capacity: With a 10-liter capacity, it can chill up to 15 cans of your favorite beverages, and a removable shelf adds versatility for storing various items.
  • Dual Temperature Modes: Cools down to 32°F below ambient temperature and warms up to 140°F at 75°F ambient temperature.
  • Versatile Power Options: Plugs into standard 110V (AC) wall outlets at home or 12V car adapters, ensuring you have cold refreshments wherever you go.
  • Safety Assured: 100% Freon-Free and cETL approved, featuring advanced safety technology for peace of mind.
Pros
  • Compact and lightweight for easy portability.
  • Dual cooling and warming functions for versatility.
  • Suitable for a wide range of uses, from chilling beverages to cosmetics storage.
  • Convenient power options for home and on-the-go use.
  • Energy-efficient and environmentally friendly with its Freon-Free design.
Cons
  • Limited interior space, best suited for personal use or small gatherings.
  • May not reach extremely low temperatures compared to larger refrigerators.

3-PremiumLevella 7.3 cu ft Energy Star

Introducing the Premium Levella 7.3 cu. ft. Energy Star Refrigerator – a smart and stylish solution for efficient refrigeration without sacrificing space. This top-freezer refrigerator is designed to maximize capacity while fitting seamlessly into smaller areas. Whether you need extra storage in your office, shed, man cave, apartment, or basement, this refrigerator has you covered. With its sleek black exterior and counter-depth design, it complements any aesthetic. Plus, it’s energy-efficient, so you’ll enjoy year-round energy and money savings. Let’s explore the features that make this refrigerator a practical and affordable choice:

Key Features

  • Energy Star Certified: This refrigerator meets federal guidelines for energy efficiency, ensuring year-round energy and cost savings.
  • Temperature Management: Easy-to-access controls make temperature management a breeze, even when the unit is fully loaded.
  • Interior Lighting: The replaceable interior light allows you to find your favorite snacks and drinks, even in the dark.
  • Flexible Shelving: Three removable, adjustable, and spill-proof glass shelves provide versatility for storing everything from small snacks to larger items like game-day pizzas or Thanksgiving turkeys.
  • Ample Door Storage: Enjoy three full-width door balconies that can accommodate tall bottles, cans, and even eggs.
  • Fruit and Vegetable Storage: A dedicated crisper drawer keeps delicate fruits and vegetables fresh and protected from larger food items.
Pros
  • Efficient use of space with a counter-depth design.
  • A stylish black exterior complements various design aesthetics.
  • Energy-efficient, saving you money on your energy bills.
  • Adjustable shelving and door storage for maximum versatility.
  • Ideal for smaller spaces, offices, apartments, and more.
Cons
  • Manual defrost systems may require occasional maintenance.
  • Limited freezer capacity compared to larger models.

4-BLACK+DECKER BCRK32B Compact Refrigerator 

Introducing the BLACK+DECKER BCRK32B Compact Refrigerator – your space-saving and stylish solution to store your favorite food, beverages, and more. With its compact design (17.5″ x 19.3″ x 32.7″), this small refrigerator maximizes storage while minimizing energy consumption and floor space. Available in sleek black, stainless steel, and white finishes, it’s perfect for a wide range of settings, from college dorm rooms and home offices to garages, small apartments, and RV campers. Let’s explore the features that make this compact fridge a must-have for those looking for an affordable and efficient refrigeration option:

the BLACK+DECKER BCRK32B Compact Refrigerator is an excellent choice for those seeking an efficient and stylish refrigeration solution under $500. Its compact design, versatile features, and quiet operation make it a practical addition to various settings, ensuring your food and beverages stay fresh without compromising space or budget. Upgrade your cooling with this budget-friendly and space-saving compact fridge!

Key Features

  • Compact & Stylish: This compact refrigerator not only saves space but also enhances your decor. Available in multiple finishes to match your style, it’s perfect for various settings, including dorm rooms, offices, home bars, and more.
  • Large Capacity: Two removable glass shelves expand storage space and make cleaning a breeze. The full-width crisper with a glass cover ensures optimal storage for perishables. Additionally, the door features a shelf that accommodates six 12 oz cans and a 2-liter bottle storage compartment. The full-width freezer comes complete with an ice cube tray.
  • Convenient Features: Enjoy the reversible door, leveling legs, and flat back design for versatile placement options. An adjustable temperature control lets you set the ideal cooling level, with a minimum of 32°F. The true freezer compartment is perfect for ice packs, frozen dinners, and more.
  • Ultra Quiet: With low sound operation (45dB), this fridge is perfect for quiet spaces like office kitchens, waiting rooms, or even a baby’s room for storing milk without disturbance.
  • Additional Perks: The fridge includes a recessed door handle for easy opening and closing, manual defrost, and adjustable thermostat control. It comes with a 1-year warranty for parts and labor and a 2-year warranty for the compressor.
Pros
  • Compact and space-saving design.
  • Multiple finish options to match your decor.
  • Ample storage with adjustable shelves and door compartments.
  • Ultra-quiet operation for noise-sensitive environments.
  • Convenient features like reversible door and adjustable thermostat.
Cons
  • Manual defrost may require occasional maintenance.
  • Limited freezer capacity compared to larger models.

5-GE GTS17DTNRBB 28 Inch Black Freestanding Top Freezer Refrigerator

Meet the GE GTS17DTNRBB 28-inch Black Freestanding Top Freezer Refrigerator – your reliable and spacious cooling companion that combines functionality with a sleek design. With a generous 16.63 cubic feet of total capacity, this top-freezer refrigerator offers ample space to store your groceries and keep them fresh. Available in classic black, it effortlessly complements any kitchen decor. Whether you prefer a left or right-opening door, its reversible design caters to your kitchen layout. Let’s dive into the features that make this refrigerator a smart choice for those seeking an affordable and efficient cooling solution:

Key Features

  • Generous Capacity: With 16.63 cubic feet of total capacity, this refrigerator provides ample space for all your food and beverage storage needs.
  • Frost-Free Defrost: Say goodbye to manual defrosting. This model features automatic defrosting, saving you time and effort.
  • Versatile Storage: Enjoy the flexibility of adjustable wire shelves and clear crisper drawers to organize your items the way you like.
  • Temperature Control: Conveniently located at the front of the refrigerator, temperature controls put you in charge of the perfect cooling environment.
  • Reversible Door: Customize the door swing to fit your kitchen layout, whether you prefer a left or right-opening door.
  • Matte Finish: The matte black finish adds a touch of elegance to your kitchen while being easy to clean and maintain.
Pros
  • Spacious and efficient design for maximum storage.
  • Frost-free defrost system eliminates the need for manual defrosting.
  • Adjustable shelves and clear drawers for organized storage.
  • Temperature controls at the front for easy access.
  • Reversible door for flexible installation options.
  • A matte finish adds a sleek and modern look.
Cons
  • Limited color options (available in black and white).
  • May not have advanced features found in more expensive models.

6-Midea WHD-113FSS1 Compact Refrigerator, 3.1 cu ft, Stainless Steel

Discover the Midea WHD-113FSS1 Compact Refrigerator, a reliable and efficient cooling solution that offers both convenience and style. With a 3.1 cubic feet capacity and a stainless steel finish, this compact fridge is designed to fit seamlessly into any kitchen. Its Energy Star efficiency ensures cost savings and environmentally-friendly operation. Whether you need separate compartments for your fridge and freezer items or appreciate adjustable features, this fridge has you covered. Let’s delve into the features that make the Midea WHD-113FSS1 a standout choice for those seeking a top-rated refrigerator under $500:

In conclusion, the Midea WHD-113FSS1 Compact Refrigerator is a practical and budget-friendly choice for those seeking efficient refrigeration under $500. Its adjustable features, stainless steel finish, and Energy Star efficiency make it an attractive option for various settings. Upgrade your kitchen with this top-rated compact fridge, offering both style and functionality!

Key Features

  • Adjustable Temperature Ranges: Enjoy customizable temperature settings, with the refrigerator compartment ranging from 32°F to 50°F and the freezer compartment from -11.2°F to 5°F.
  • Reversible Door: The reversible door design offers flexibility, allowing it to open from either the left or right to suit your kitchen layout.
  • Interior Light: Find what you need even in low light with the built-in interior light.
  • Partial Automatic Defrost: The semi-automatic defrost system makes maintenance hassle-free.
  • Separate Fruit and Vegetable Drawer: Keep your produce fresh and organized in the dedicated drawer.
  • Durable Glass Shelves: The fridge features sturdy wire shelves for storing items of various sizes.
  • Energy Star Efficiency: This refrigerator operates with Energy Star efficiency, reducing energy consumption and saving you money.
Pros
  • Energy-efficient operation with an Energy Star rating.
  • Adjustable temperature settings for precise cooling preferences.
  • Reversible door for flexible installation options.
  • Durable glass shelves and a roomy crisper drawer for organized storage.
  • Compact design suitable for small kitchens, apartments, and offices.
Cons
  • Limited color options (available in stainless steel).
  • Smaller capacity compared to larger models.

7-Galanz GLR40TRDER Retro Compact Refrigerator, 4.0 Cu.Ft Mini Fridge 

Introducing the Galanz GLR40TRDER Retro Compact Refrigerator, a delightful combination of style and functionality that’s perfect for your kitchen, bar, or rec room. With a generous 4.0 cubic feet capacity and a striking red color with chrome accents, this mini fridge brings a touch of retro charm to any space. Designed to be energy-efficient with its high-efficiency compressor, it cools your food quickly while keeping energy consumption in check. This freestanding refrigerator offers the convenience of separate doors for the refrigerator and freezer, providing ample storage and organization options. Let’s explore the features that make this retro-inspired compact fridge an excellent choice for those seeking a top-rated refrigerator under $500:

Key Features

  • Retro Red Design: The Galanz GLR40TRDER adds a splash of vibrant red and chrome accents to your space, combining retro aesthetics with modern convenience.
  • Energy-Efficient: With an energy-efficient R600a compressor, this fridge cools your food rapidly while using less energy, helping you save on utility bills.
  • Adjustable Temperature Control: Easily set the desired temperature with the manual control dial, allowing you to adjust from cool to cold to coldest.
  • Generous Capacity: The 4.0 cubic feet capacity provides ample storage, with glass shelves that allow you to separate and organize different types of food.
  • Separate Freezer Compartment: The top-mount freezer compartment can store frozen foods or make ice cubes, while the refrigerator door offers space for your favorite beverages.
  • Interior Light: Find what you need effortlessly, even in low light, thanks to the built-in interior light.
  • Reversible Door: Customize the door swing to fit your kitchen layout with the reversible door feature.
Pros
  • The retro-inspired design adds a stylish touch to your space.
  • Energy-efficient compressor for cost savings.
  • Ample storage with a separate freezer and adjustable glass shelves.
  • Easy-to-use manual temperature control.
  • Interior light for convenience in low-light situations.
  • Reversible door for flexible installation options.
Cons
  • Available only in red, limiting color options.
  • May not have advanced features found in larger, more expensive models.

Buying Guide for the Best Refrigerators Under $500

Finding the perfect refrigerator on a budget can be a rewarding experience when you know what to look for. Here’s a handy buying guide to help you make an informed decision when searching for the best refrigerators under $500:

  1. Determine Your Needs:

  • Before you start shopping, assess your specific needs. Consider factors like the available space in your kitchen, the number of people in your household, and your food storage requirements. This will help you choose the right size and type of refrigerator.
  1. Size Matters:

  • In this price range, you’ll mostly find small to medium-sized refrigerators. Measure the available space in your kitchen to ensure the fridge you choose fits comfortably. Keep in mind that smaller fridges are more energy-efficient.
  1. Top Brands:

  • Stick to reputable brands known for their reliability and durability. Brands like LG, Frigidaire, and Haier often offer affordable options that perform well.
  1. Energy Efficiency:

  • Look for refrigerators with an Energy Star certification. These models are designed to be energy-efficient, which can save you money on your electricity bills in the long run.
  1. Type of Refrigerator:

  • There are various types to consider:
    • Top-Freezer: The freezer is on top, and the fresh food compartment is below. This is a classic and cost-effective design.
    • Bottom-Freezer: The freezer is at the bottom, making it easier to access fresh food items.
    • Compact and Mini Fridges: These are perfect for small spaces, dorm rooms, or as a secondary fridge.
  1. Features and Functions:

  • Decide which features are essential for you. Common features to look for include adjustable shelves, crispers, ice makers (if needed), and temperature controls. Some models also have reversible doors for flexibility in placement.
  1. Read Reviews:

  • Before making a final decision, read customer reviews and expert opinions online. This can provide valuable insights into the performance and reliability of the refrigerator you’re considering.
  1. Warranty and Customer Support:

  • Check the warranty offered by the manufacturer. A longer warranty period indicates the manufacturer’s confidence in their product. Additionally, good customer support is essential in case you encounter any issues.
  1. Price Comparison:

  • Compare prices from different retailers to ensure you’re getting the best deal. Keep an eye out for seasonal sales and discounts.
  1. Maintenance and Care:

  • Proper maintenance can extend the life of your refrigerator. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for cleaning and maintenance to keep it running efficiently.
  1. Additional Storage Solutions:

  • Consider investing in fridge organizers and storage containers to make the most of your refrigerator’s space and keep it organized.
  1. Final Considerations:

  • Don’t rush the decision. Take your time to find the best refrigerator that suits your needs and budget. Remember that it’s an appliance you’ll use daily, so choose wisely.

Conclusion:

When looking for affordable refrigerators under $500, remember these tips. Choose a trusted brand, focus on energy efficiency, and pick the size and type that fits your space. Reading reviews and comparing prices can help you make a smart decision. Take good care of your fridge to make it last. With these steps, you’ll find a budget-friendly refrigerator that suits your needs and keeps your food fresh without breaking the bank.

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