Mini Bar Fridge Guide: 31, 46 and 70 Litre Sizes Compared

A mini bar fridge is the easy way to add cold drinks to a bedroom, office, games room, caravan annexe or small bar. The right size depends on how many drinks you actually keep and how much space you have. Here is how the common sizes compare.

The mini sizes in our range

Capacities and can counts below come from the product listings:

• 23 to 25 litres (about 20 to 21 cans): very compact units for a desk or shelf. See the Schmick HUS-SC23C.
• 31 litres (about 32 cans): the Schmick SK40-B has a shallow depth for tight spaces.
• 46 litres (about 38 cans): the most popular mini size, with many retro and branded designs.
• 50 litres (about 38 cans): the Schmick HUS-SC50AB is a glass door model with a lockable door.
• 68 to 70 litres (about 68 to 85 cans): the Schmick HUS-SC70-B is a tropical rated 70 litre glass door model.

Dimensions at a glance

Exterior dimensions from the specifications (width x depth x height):

• Schmick HUS-SC23C (23 litres): 350 x 425 x 500 mm.
• Schmick SK40-B (31 litres): 395 x 406 x 550 mm.
• 46 litre retro minis: 430 x 470 x 500 mm.
• Schmick HUS-SC50AB (50 litres): 435 x 500 x 510 mm.
• Schmick HUS-RND70B (68 litres): 430 x 495 x 680 mm.
• Schmick HUS-SC70-B (70 litres): 430 x 500 x 700 mm.

Energy ratings vary across the minis, from 2 stars on the 25 litre Dellcool to 10 stars on several models including the 23, 31 and 68 litre units, so compare the rating as well as the size.

Glass door or retro?

Glass door mini bar fridges show off the drinks and suit a home bar or office. Retro and vintage mini fridges bring style to a man cave or rumpus room. Read our retro bar fridge guide for the styled options.

Where will it sit?

• On a bench or shelf: check the width, depth and height, and leave ventilation space around the cabinet.
• In a cabinet recess: look for a front-breathing model.
• In a hot room, shed or garage: choose a tropical rated model.

Noise and energy

Sound ratings for the mini sizes run from about 38 to 41 dB. If it will sit in a bedroom or living area, see our quiet bar fridge guide.

Mini bar fridge FAQs

How many cans fit in a mini bar fridge?

It depends on the model. A 31 litre unit holds about 32 cans and a 70 litre unit up to about 85, according to the listings.

Is a mini bar fridge good for a bedroom?

Many are quiet enough, but compare the dB rating on each product page.

Can I put a mini bar fridge in a cabinet?

Only if the listing says it is designed for it. Otherwise leave clear space around it.

Browse all of our single door bar fridges, or read our bar fridge buying guide for more help.