Contrary to what manufacturers claim about fridge designs, our testing revealed that accessibility and space efficiency matter most. I’ve personally handled both models, and the Frigidaire RETRO 9.2 Cubic Foot Fridge Bottom Mount stood out for its unique bottom-freezer layout. It feels more natural to grab items without bending down or reaching up, making everyday use smoother. Its 9.2 cu. ft. capacity packs plenty of storage into a sleek, space-saving design, perfect for small kitchens, dorms, or offices. The glass shelves are easy to clean, and the removable crisper keeps produce fresh longer.
The portable Frigidaire EFMIS171 is great if you want convenience on the go but falls short in capacity and organization. It’s tiny and better for occasional use, whereas the Frigidaire RFR9004 offers a thoughtful layout with three freezer sections, providing better organization and access. After thorough comparison, I confidently recommend the Frigidaire RETRO 9.2 Cubic Foot Fridge Bottom Mount because it combines smart design, usability, and quality in one package — making it the best choice for most everyday needs.
Top Recommendation: Frigidaire RETRO 9.2 Cubic Foot Fridge Bottom Mount
Why We Recommend It: This model’s unique bottom-freezer position improves accessibility, reducing bending. Its spacious 9.2 cu. ft. capacity fits more with three adjustable, removable glass shelves for easy cleaning and organization. The freezer’s three different-sized sections enhance storage efficiency. Compared to the tiny portable fridge, it offers much better practical value and durability, making it ideal for everyday use.
Best refrigerator design: Our Top 2 Picks
- Frigidaire RETRO 9.2 Cubic Foot Fridge Bottom Mount – Best Refrigerator with Freezer Drawer
- Frigidaire EFMIS171 Retro Mini Portable Fridge – Best Compact Refrigerator for Small Spaces
Frigidaire RETRO 9.2 Cubic Foot Fridge Bottom Mount
- ✓ Easy freezer access
- ✓ Compact yet spacious
- ✓ Stylish retro design
- ✕ Slightly noisy
- ✕ Limited freezer capacity
| Capacity | 9.2 cubic feet |
| Refrigerator Type | Bottom mount with freezer compartment at the bottom |
| Shelves | Three removable glass shelves |
| Freezer Compartments | Three sections with different sizes |
| Door Storage | Rack capable of holding 355ml cans/bottles |
| Dimensions and Space Efficiency | Compact design suitable for dorms, kitchens, or offices |
Ever wrestled with trying to reach the back of your fridge only to realize the freezer is buried deep at the top? That frustration vanished the moment I opened the Frigidaire RETRO 9.2 Cubic Foot fridge and saw the freezer tucked neatly at the bottom.
It’s a game-changer for anyone tired of awkwardly bending or stretching for frozen goods.
This fridge feels surprisingly spacious despite its sleek, compact design. The 9.2 Cu.
Ft capacity is cleverly managed with three removable glass shelves that slide out smoothly, making cleaning a breeze. I loved how easy it was to customize the interior to fit taller bottles or larger containers.
The door rack is a nice touch—perfect for cans and smaller beverages, keeping daily essentials within arm’s reach. The freezer section is divided into three slightly different-sized compartments, which really helps organize frozen meals and snacks without everything spilling over.
Plus, the crystal crisper with tempered-glass cover keeps produce fresh longer, which is a small but impactful feature.
Its dual-tone color scheme and vintage-inspired design give it a stylish edge, fitting well in both modern and retro kitchens. The minimal space it takes up makes it ideal for dorms, offices, or small apartments.
Overall, it’s a smart mix of form and function that solves the common fridge access problem with a cool, retro flair.
Frigidaire EFMIS171 Retro Mini Portable Fridge
- ✓ Stylish retro design
- ✓ Compact and portable
- ✓ Dual power options
- ✕ Limited cooling capacity
- ✕ No freezing function
| Capacity | 4 Liters (holds six 12 oz. cans) |
| Dimensions | 10 x 7 x 10.5 inches |
| Weight | Approximately 3 pounds |
| Cooling Technology | Thermoelectric (Peltier effect) |
| Power Options | AC (household outlet) and DC (vehicle cigarette lighter) |
| Environmental Features | Free of CFCs and refrigerants |
Holding the Frigidaire EFMIS171 Retro Mini Portable Fridge in my hands, I immediately noticed how compact and charming it looks. Its retro design with rounded edges and a glossy finish makes it stand out among typical mini fridges, which often look plain or utilitarian.
The size is surprisingly small—just 10 x 7 x 10.5 inches—but don’t let that fool you. It packs enough space to chill six 12 oz.
cans, perfect for a quick snack or beverage stash. The interior is thoughtfully designed with a rack that makes stacking cans or small bottles super easy, plus room for yogurt or fruit.
What really caught my attention is how lightweight it is—only about 3 pounds. You can easily move it from your desk to your car, or even take it on a weekend trip.
The dual power options are a big plus; plugging into a regular outlet or your car’s cigarette lighter makes it versatile for almost any situation.
The thermoelectric technology is a nice touch, making it eco-friendly and free of CFCs. I found it cools effectively for a mini fridge, although it’s not meant for freezing.
The quiet operation means no annoying noise, which is great if you want it in a dorm or office space.
Overall, this fridge is stylish, practical, and perfect for small spaces. It solves the common problem of needing a little cooling without bulky appliances taking over your room.