The vintage fridge proves that trends only come around again and again. After having made the glory of kitchens in the middle of the last century, this type of refrigerator has come back in force for a few years. The key to success? They are vintage in appearance only: all the on-board functions are state-of-the-art! Want to add a touch to your kitchen? Check out our guide to the best vintage fridges.
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Our selection
"This vintage fridge, inspired by the famous Volkswagen combi, has quickly become a best-seller. Whether your kitchen is modern or retro, the stylish Gorenje OBRB153BL…"
"Small and stylish, the Ikohs Retro Fridge 50 is reminiscent of the aesthetics of the old fridges of the 1950s. To give a retro touch…"
"The Smeg FAB32 RCR5 is a huge crowd pleaser with its harmonious curves and 1950s-era finishes. Rich in options, this beautiful retro refrigerator will add…"
"This fridge/freezer combo represents the best value in the vintage fridge category. Despite its affordable cost, the Schneider SCB300VBL is far from being a low-end…"
This vintage fridge, inspired by the famous Volkswagen combi, has quickly become a best-seller. Whether your kitchen is modern or retro, the stylish Gorenje OBRB153BL will add style and originality.
719 £ on AmazonThis vintage Gorenje fridge features IonAir technology with DynamicCooling. This ensures an even temperature distribution in the refrigerator compartment. As the air is enriched with negative ions, a natural microclimate will be generated in the refrigerator, which guarantees a better preservation of perishable foods. This appliance is also equipped with a FreshZone drawer to keep meat, fish, fruits and vegetables fresh for longer.
The Gorenje OBRB153BL should help its owner to keep different categories of food in it. In fact, its door is equipped with a plethora of storage space for large bottles. An ingenious sliding system allows you to pull the shelves up and down. In addition to its beautifully retro look, this vintage fridge is also very practical.
Small and stylish, the Ikohs Retro Fridge 50 is reminiscent of the aesthetics of the old fridges of the 1950s. To give a retro touch to your kitchen or your bar, this model will be perfect.
369 £ on Cdiscount
The Smeg FAB32 RCR5 is a huge crowd pleaser with its harmonious curves and 1950s-era finishes. Rich in options, this beautiful retro refrigerator will add personality to your kitchen.
1 599 £ on AmazonWith its total ventilated cooling technology, this refrigerator-freezer with its deliciously retro lines ensures optimal preservation of provisions without producing any frost. By adopting the Smeg FAB32 RCR5, you will no longer have to go through the defrosting stage. With an energy class D, this appliance will allow you to make significant energy savings, which will be further maximized by the LED strips that illuminate the interior.
The interior of this vintage fridge has been designed so that you can store everything you need for a specific period of time. The stirred cold ensures a well even temperature distribution which prevents odor transfer. You will be pleased to know that the refrigerator part of the Smeg FAB32 RCR5 has an Extra Fresh Zone 0°C which ensures a better preservation of perishable food.
This fridge/freezer combo represents the best value in the vintage fridge category. Despite its affordable cost, the Schneider SCB300VBL is far from being a low-end model.
503 £ on AmazonBeyond its machine tools and industrial equipment, Schneider is also a manufacturer of household appliances known for its quality. It owes its reputation to the excellent quality of its creations, and especially its vintage refrigerators, including the Schneider SCB300VBL. Indeed, this appliance really has everything to please, starting with its retro design and its compact shape that allows it to fit into any kitchen.
When it comes to functionality, the Schneider SCB300VBL has everything you could want. Its continuous air circulation technology (stirred cooling) guarantees an even distribution of the cold and a very quick return to temperature after the doors are opened. To ensure optimal interior lighting and to enable its future owner to control energy consumption, this vintage fridge is equipped exclusively with LEDs.
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The best vintage fridge in 2021
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| OUR SELECTION |
Gorenje OBRB153BL
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Ikohs Retro Fridge 50
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Smeg FAB32 RCR5
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Schneider SCB300VBL
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This vintage fridge, inspired by the famous Volkswagen combi, has quickly become a best-seller. Whether your kitchen is modern or retro, the stylish Gorenje OBRB153BL will add style and originality.
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Small and stylish, the Ikohs Retro Fridge 50 is reminiscent of the aesthetics of the old fridges of the 1950s. To give a retro touch to your kitchen or your bar, this model will be perfect.
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The Smeg FAB32 RCR5 is a huge crowd pleaser with its harmonious curves and 1950s-era finishes. Rich in options, this beautiful retro refrigerator will add personality to your kitchen.
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This fridge/freezer combo represents the best value in the vintage fridge category. Despite its affordable cost, the Schneider SCB300VBL is far from being a low-end model.
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Energy class
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E
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A+
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D
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A+
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Total volume
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229 L
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48 L
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331 L
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300 L
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Fridge volume
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25 L
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0 L
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234 L
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209 L
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Weight
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57.5 kg
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NC
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103.4 kg
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69 kg
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Number of doors
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1
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1
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2
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2
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Roughly speaking, the capacity of vintage fridges varies from about 100 L to over 500 L. To give you a better idea of the capacity requirements per family category, you can refer to this indicative list:
- For a single person: 100 L
- For a couple: 200 L
- For a couple with one child: 300 L
- For a couple with two children: 400-500 L or more
As for the volume of the freezer compartment, assume that a minimum of 120 L is necessary if you plan to store food.
The type of cold of the vintage fridge directly affects the quality and shelf life of food products. Without hijacking, it would be best if you opt for a ventilated or stirred cold appliance, as these technologies do not dry out the food. A static cold appliance is not very efficient to keep food fresh, but it has the advantage of being more economical and low energy consumption. For the choice of the type of cold, you must therefore take stock between the use you intend to make of the fridge and your budget.
You must rely on the data mentioned on the energy label to get precise data on the class and annual consumption of the vintage fridge. Note that energy consumption depends primarily on the volume of the fridge. With the same capacity, an A++ rated model will consume 20% more than an A+++ rated model. However, a refrigerator classified A++ will consume less than another classified A+ in case this one has a lower storage capacity.
The food preservation efficiency of a vintage refrigerator is evaluated according to a star system. The more stars, the lower the freezing temperature (-6 to -18 °C). To simplify understanding:
- * -6 °C: optimal conservation up to 3 days
-12 °C : optimal conservation up to 4 weeks
- *** -18 °C : optimal storage until a certain date
- **** -18 °C : optimal conservation up to 12 months
Your vintage fridge should be as practical as possible. Thus, it is advisable to take stock of the state of the existing storage. It is more pleasant and practical to have bins for your groceries. If the product has a freshness tray, it is even better. Also see if the retro refrigerator has a thermostat, super freeze function, door alarm and automatic defrost function.
The vintage fridge is easily recognized by its volume, its curves, its shimmering colors and its large chrome handles. Some people say that opting for this type of appliance makes no sense if the entire kitchen has not been given a similar makeover.
This is completely false! Indeed, a vintage fridge, given its particular design, adapts to all decorations. It is not likely to stain, even if it is installed in an ultra modern kitchen. Just make sure you choose the right color. In an all-white kitchen, look for bright colors like red, green or yellow.
A lot of people are wrong about this appliance, especially when it comes to energy consumption. The massive appearance of these refrigerators does not mean that they consume a lot of energy. You will know that these appliances are subject to a European directive that aims to provide accurate information on the energy consumption of products that run on energy.
So, like other current electrical appliances, vintage fridges are divided into different energy classes ranging from A to G. For this category of products, the models of energy class D are the most interesting in terms of energy performance. Their consumption is lower than that of appliances in energy class F or G.
The vintage mini fridge has a capacity of about 80-100 L. This appliance is perfect for the decorative bars of your houses or apartments. It will allow you to keep your drinks fresh, but also snacks. If it is not too heavy, the vintage mini fridge can be taken to camping or other festivities that take place outdoors.
The vintage single door fridge is the exact reproduction of the refrigerators that date back to the 1950s. This model is distinguished by its enormous volume. The best retro single-door refrigerators average 350L. They are large enough to store food for several people. Large families will find something to like with this timelessly designed appliance.
This type of vintage fridge looks more massive than the single door fridge. Therefore, it is a combination that is at least 200L. On this model, the refrigerator and freezer compartments are separate. The retro two-door fridge is recommended for singles and couples. This appliance will allow them to keep the necessary amount of food they need for a long or short time.
The vintage fridge is very popular for its slightly curved shape, its many iridescent colors and its many accessories. Despite its retro appearance, this appliance is resolutely timeless and fits into any interior. Wherever you install it, the vintage fridge will bring a touch of originality and refinement to the kitchen.
The American fridge has a very large volume. This appliance is equipped with 2 doors that open on one side like a cupboard. Generally, the American fridge consists of a refrigerator and a freezer. It also has many functions, such as a minibar, water dispenser, ice maker and even a wine cellar.
The American fridge offers many advantages, starting with its large capacity. You can store a huge amount of food and drinks in it. As for its design, it is not too bad to look at. Nevertheless, the American fridge does not have that little something that you find in a vintage fridge. And unlike the American fridge that takes up too much space, the vintage fridge is compatible with any space.
Add color to the kitchen
Vintage style inexorably refers to the rockabilly style of the 50's and 60's which is distinguished by the bright and shiny colors. So, by adopting a vintage fridge, you will definitely add some color to your kitchen. If your kitchen is a bit plain, the retro fridge will certainly brighten it up.
Saves space
The vintage fridge is not as imposing as the American fridge. Thus, it can be installed in a medium-sized kitchen. It is the best alternative to save more space in what is the busiest room in the house. And if you have a large kitchen, you just have to opt for a model with more than 500 L.
Always in the spirit of the times
These replicas of refrigerators from the 50s and 60s are still in vogue, especially among fans of beautiful decorative objects. Moreover, these appliances can be integrated into all types of decorations. Whether your kitchen is vintage, modern, industrial or Scandinavian, the vintage fridge will not fail to highlight it.
Technically not as retro as it claims to be!
As we mentioned earlier in this buying guide, the vintage fridge is only vintage in appearance. You will know that this appliance is a real concentrate of technology in addition to being very economical (in every sense of the word). Indeed, its energy consumption is lower than the modern fridge because of its compact size.
Available in an infinite number of designs
You will find a huge variety of vintage fridges on the market. There are so many models to choose from that you are spoilt for choice, both in terms of design and cooling technology.
In our opinion, the best brands of vintage refrigerators in 2022 are :
Samsung is known to be a heavyweight in cell phones. But the Korean brand is well present in other sectors of consumer electronics, including home appliances. In fact, its range of vintage fridges is a huge success.
Italian appliance manufacturer based in Guastalla, Smeg particularly excels in vintage fridges. If you're looking for high-end products that maximize your energy savings, opt for Smeg products.
The German brand, a genius jack-of-all-trades, is also a heavyweight in the appliance industry on par with Samsung. The excellent quality of Bosch vintage fridges comes from its policy that is based on constant innovation.
KitchenAid is an American brand specializing in large and small kitchen appliances. Its range of retro refrigerators is known for its robustness, but also for its clever design.
Gorenje is a Slovenian group and also a subsidiary of the Chinese cador Hisense. The activities of this group are divided into three sectors, of which vintage refrigerators are one.
The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).
However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.
We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.
Buy a vintage fridge according to your situation
Buying a vintage fridge depends largely on your lifestyle habits. If you're a vegan couple who likes to shop every day, you don't need a large appliance. A medium-sized fridge with a freezer function should be more than enough for you. On the other hand, large families will need a fridge in which they can store groceries on a short or long term basis.
Prefer vintage fridges with plenty of storage
Whether there are many of you in the family or not, a vintage fridge with plenty of storage will keep your groceries organized. Don't forget that the fridge must above all meet your daily needs. Its design is only secondary.
Maintain your vintage fridge regularly
Whichever model you choose, don't forget to give it regular maintenance. This will optimize its longevity. Even if the retro fridge has an automatic defrosting function, manual maintenance still proves to be very useful.
Prefer a vintage fridge with several options
The best vintage fridge is the one that offers many options that will facilitate your daily use. Thus, you should look for the different features offered by the appliance. Ideally, choose a retro fridge with automatic defrost, ice dispenser, door alarm and connectivity.
Choose the right climate class
Climate class is a term that refers to the ambient temperature within which the retro fridge can work best. Considering the country's climate specifics, experts in the field recommend opting for class N (16 °C and 32 °C).
The vintage fridge is easily recognized by its unusual design. It has curves, an iridescent color, a shiny handle, and a compact shape. This appliance seems to come straight out of an old color movie from the fifties. But don't let its appearance fool you, it is a pure concentrate of technology.
For a family of 4, the recommended volume for a vintage fridgeis 300 L. For the freezer compartment, you should count on average about 60 L per person. Nevertheless, you can adopt a model that makes more or less this volume, if you feel that it meets your needs.
If we rely on official indications, vintage fridges of energy class A+++ consume the least electricity. It seems that a refrigerator of this energy class is 50% more efficient than a normal fridge that is rated A+. To avoid disappointment, always rely on the indications written on the packaging of the retro fridge you are interested in.
If the walls of your kitchen are white or in another light shade, choose a vintage fridge in a shimmering color, even bright. The contrasting effect will brighten up this space. Today, the most popular colors for retro fridges are bright red, yellow, green, blue, purple, black and orange.
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