Beverage Fridge vs. Mini Fridge: What's the Difference?
Most people use the terms “beverage fridge” and “mini fridge” interchangeably. While they’re similar, there are key differences with knowing.
In this blog, we’ll break down:
- The interior of both mini fridges and beverage fridges
- Features you’ll find in beverage fridges but not mini fridges
- How to choose the right type of fridge for your needs
You might be surprised to learn that a beverage fridge isn’t just a fancy name for a mini fridge. Understanding the difference ensures you choose the best model for your home and lifestyle.
The Inside Layout of the Fridge
Mini fridges are typically scaled-down versions of a kitchen refrigerator, designed primarily for food storage. Depending on the model, you’ll find shelves and bins for dairy, condiments, meat, and vegetables, especially in European-style mini fridges popular in tiny homes, RVs, studio apartments, and Airbnb rentals.
Basic mini fridges are more limited. Many have just one shelf and a small freezer compartment, big enough for an ice cube tray. These models are common in dorms or motels and are best suited for leftovers and snacks, not daily meal storage.
Featured SKU: NRF033BK00
However, many college students are now choosing beverage fridges instead. Why?
Beverage fridges are designed with drinks in mind. They feature racks and shelving made for bottled water, soda, juice, milk, iced tea, and coffee drinks, plus room for light snacks like fruit or yogurt. Adjustable or pull-out shelves make it easy to fit a variety of can and bottle sizes and to access items at the back with ease.
And while they’re similar in price to a basic mini fridge, beverage fridges come with far more features.
Beverage Fridge Features and Extras
Here are the top reasons beverage fridges have become the go-to compact appliance:
Huge Array of Sizes and Dimensions
Beverage fridges are available in a much larger selection of sizes and dimensions than mini fridges. You can find one for virtually any space, whether you have a narrow gap in your home bar area or a larger opening under your kitchen island.
Capacities range from compact models that hold just a few six-packs to high-capacity fridges designed to store more than 200 cans.
Built-In and Freestanding Models
If you’re a homeowner doing a remodel, you might want a built-in beverage fridge. You can even find outdoor built-in models engineered to live permanently on your patio or as part of your poolside kitchen.
For renters or anyone who likes versatility, freestanding models are ideal. Use them in your living room for holiday parties, move them outside for barbecues, or even bring them tailgating or camping with a car power inverter.
Larger Temperature Range
Beverage fridges typically offer a wider temperature range than mini fridges. Store delicate red wines and imported brews at 55–60°F, or drop the temp near freezing to frost beers quickly before a big game and keep them ice-cold for hours.
Dual Temperature Options
Many new beverage fridges now feature dual zone temperature storage. This means one side of the fridge can be set to one temperature while the other side can be at a completely different temperature. This setup is ideal for:
- Keeping beer and soda at different coldness levels
- Storing beer and wine together in one fridge
- Separating drinks you’re aging from those ready to serve
- Housing chilled white wine alongside slightly warmer reds
Shelving Specifically for Wine
Some beverage fridges are designed specifically for wine storage. Wine fridges often include dual temperature zones, display racks for special bottles, and smooth roll-out shelves that prevent disturbing aging wines until they’re ready to enjoy.
LED Controls, Displays, and Lighting
Unlike traditional mini fridges with solid doors, most beverage fridges feature glass doors so you can see your drink supply at a glance. Interior LED lighting enhances visibility and can be left on for display. Exterior digital controls make it easy to set precise temperatures by degree—no more vague “cold/colder/coldest” dials.
Innovative Door Technology
Modern beverage fridges take doors a step further with UV-protected glass to preserve flavor and freshness in wine and beer. Many models also include lockable doors to keep kids and pets out.
Quiet, Energy-Efficient Cooling
Beverage fridges run much quieter than traditional refrigerators and are designed with energy-efficient cooling systems that keep beverages perfectly chilled without driving up your utility bill.
Featured SKU: NWB076BS00
Which One Is Right for Your Needs?
So, which type of fridge is best for your household—a mini fridge or a beverage fridge? The answer depends on how you plan to use it.
Mini Fridge
If you need an appliance that functions as your primary refrigerator in a small space, a traditional mini fridge is the better fit. Think of it as a compact version of a full-sized refrigerator, with shelves, door racks, and slide-out bins for storing daily groceries. These models are especially popular in studio apartments, tiny homes, and RVs, similar to the efficient designs you’d find in Paris apartments or London flats.
Pro tip: Pairing an under-counter mini fridge for food with a compact countertop beverage fridge gives you the best of both worlds. Add a portable ice maker, and you’ll hardly miss having a full-sized fridge.
Featured SKU: NRF031GA00
Beverage Fridge
On the other hand, you may not need a fridge designed to store full meals. A beverage fridge is the perfect solution when drinks are the priority. It’s ideal for:
- Families who already have a main refrigerator but need extra beverage storage
- Households that entertain and want a dedicated fridge for the home bar, patio, or media room
- Beer and wine enthusiasts who value precise temperature control for their collections
- College students who need a stylish, compact option for drinks and snacks in dorm rooms
- Small businesses like spas and salons that serve beverages to clients
- Airbnb hosts looking to offer guests a more polished, hotel-style experience
Featured SKU: AB-1200
Find the Perfect Beverage Fridge at Newair
No matter what type of beverage fridge you need, you’ll find it at Newair. Shop online, get your fridge delivered fast, and rest easy with our full-year warranty.
To make the most of your warranty and access our outstanding customer service, don’t forget to register your appliance as soon as it arrives.
