Mini Fridge vs Beverage Cooler: What Are The Differences?

Content Summary

Choosing the right cooling appliance can be a challenge. In this guide, we'll go over the differences between mini-fridges and beverage coolers, highlighting their pros and cons, and helping you make the best decision.

A mini fridge is perfect for those in need of storage space for both food and drinks, and have a limited budget.

A beverage fridge is a great choice if you prioritize providing cold drinks, have a higher budget, and desire precise temperature control.

Mini Fridges

Mini fridges are small refrigeration units designed to fit in small spaces. Some are portable. Here are some of the pros and cons of mini refrigerators.

Pros

Versatility: Mini fridges can be used for storing not only drinks but also food, making them a more versatile option.
Temperature Controls: They have temperature control settings, allowing you to set the temperature to your desired level.
Size-Effective: Mini fridges come in a variety of sizes, from small, compact units that sit on a desk to larger ones with a freezer section.
Cost-Effective: They tend to be cheaper than beverage refrigerators, making them an attractive option if you're on a budget. The price ranges between $50-$400. They are also energy-efficient, so you can save on your electricity bill.

Cons

Limited Space: When considering storage capacity, mini fridges have limited space. This can be a drawback if you need to store a large amount of drinks or food.
Noise: They can be noisy, especially if they're located in a quiet space like a bedroom.
Limited Lifespan: They tend to have a shorter lifespan than beverage coolers, so they may need to be replaced more often.

Beverage Coolers

Beverage coolers, also known as beverage refrigerators, are designed solely for storing drinks. They're commonly used in bars, restaurants, and homes and allow storing a large number of drinks. Here are some of the pros and cons of beverage coolers.

Pros

Large Capacity: Beverage coolers come in different sizes, so you can choose one that fits your needs. They're an excellent option if you need to store a large number of drinks.
Precise Temperature: Many have precise temperature control, so you can keep your cool drinks at the desired temperature .
Long Lifespan: Beverage centers have a longer lifespan than mini-fridges, so you won't need to replace them as often.
Less Noisy: Beverage coolers are designed to be quiet, so you won't be disturbed.
Well Displayed: Beverages coolers have a glass door, making it easy to see what is inside without having to open the door.

Cons

Expensive: Beverage coolers tend to be more costly than mini-fridges, due to the specialized features and construction. The price ranges between $300-$700. If you're on a budget, they may not be the best option.
Limited versatility: Beverage coolers are solely meant to store drinks, so you shouldn't use them to store food items. They don't have freezer compartments like some mini fridge models.

Which One To Choose

Ultimately, the decision between a mini fridge and a beverage cooler comes down to what you plan to use it for. Consider the pros and cons of each before making your final decision.

If you need a versatile refrigeration unit for both beverages and food items, a mini fridge may be your best option.
If you primarily need to keep drinks cold and want precise temperature control, a beverage cooler may be the better choice.

Mini Fridge vs Beverage Cooler FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about mini fridges and beverage coolers:

Is a beverage cooler the same as a mini fridge?

A beverage cooler is not the same as a mini fridge. While they both serve the same purpose of keeping your drinks cool, they have some key differences.

A mini fridge is a small refrigeration unit designed to fit into small spaces. It can be used for storing food and drinks. It may have a freezer compartment. It has a wide range of temperature control settings.
A beverage cooler is designed solely for storing drinks. It also has precise temperature control settings and a glass door, which makes it easy to see what is inside without having to open the door.

Does a beverage cooler get as cold as a refrigerator?

A beverage cooler typically does not get as cold as a compact fridge. A beverage cooler has precise temperature control settings, but it is designed for keeping drinks cold, not as cold as a refrigerator.

Refrigerators are designed to keep food items at very low temperatures, which is much colder than a beverage cooler. The ones with a freezer keep your ice cream frozen.

Check out our related article about the temperature control for mini fridge for further details.

What is the ideal temperature for a beverage cooler?

The ideal temperature for a beverage cooler varies depending on the type of drinks you are storing. Generally, most drinks should be stored at temperatures between 33-45°F.

Note: when you only want to store wine, get a wine cooler. The temperature range of wine coolers is between 40-65°F.

What is the ideal temperature for a mini fridge?

The ideal temperature for a mini fridge also varies depending on what type of items you are storing. Most food items should be stored at temperatures between 33-50°F.

Can I use a cooler instead of a fridge?

A cooler is not designed to replace a fridge. A beverage center or cooler is designed for short-term storage of food or drinks, and they do not provide the same kind of insulation as a refrigerator.

If you need to keep your food or drinks cold for an extended period, it is best to use a mini-fridge or beverage cooler.

Tips & Tricks

Clean your mini fridge or beverage cooler regularly and check the temperature settings, to make sure it is running efficiently.
Ensure that the door seals are properly sealed to prevent cold air from escaping.
Invest in an energy-efficient model, which will help you save money on your electricity bill.
Check the manufacturer's instructions for any special maintenance requirements.

Beverage Coolers VS Mini Fridge - Which One You Should Pick? | Smart Home 101

Need our suggestions with the best mini fridges or the best beverage fridges? Check out the below blog posts for our top picks and find the right one for you.