The best outdoor refrigerators are perfect additions to your outdoor lifestyle, whether you enjoy camping frequently or want to spend the summer in your backyard. On a steamy summer afternoon, it keeps your drinks cool and your snacks crisp and fresh.
Imagine having to run inside to get a cold drink from the refrigerator every time you felt thirsty. But what if you're far from home, on a camping site? To make your summer less intense and your gatherings much more enjoyable, a small outdoor refrigerator is a necessity.
TOP PICKS TO BUY TODAY
The best outdoor refrigerators are listed below.
- Best Overall: Summit 24-Inch 4.6 Cu. Ft. Outdoor Rated Compact Refrigerator
- Best Compact: DCS Outdoor Refrigerator w/Right Hinge
- Best Budget: Bull Outdoor Stainless Steel Front Panel Refrigerator
- Best Built-in Refrigerator: Summit Built-in Drawer Refrigerator
- Best Freestanding Mini Fridge: Danby 4.4 Cu.Ft. Outdoor Mini Fridge
REVIEWS of THE BEST OUTDOOR REFRIGERATORS
Below are our in-depth reviews of the best outdoor refrigerators in 2024.
1. Best Overall: Hampton Bay 48,000 BTU Patio Heater
PRODUCT SPECS:
Weight: 95 lbs
Dimensions: 23.63 x 25.38 x 34 inches (WxDxH)
Cut-Out Dimensions (built-in): 24 ⅛ x 27 ⅜ x 34 ¼ inches (WxDxH)
PROS:
Sizeable interior that boasts storage space of 4.6 cubic feet
Scalloped bottom is made for wine
Three adjustable glass shelves are provided
Boasts a door lack and door racks
Reversible door; attach to either the left or right side
CONS:
Stainless steel finish is only located on the front
Scalloped bottom is claimed to be made for wine but some users complained that the bottles are too long for the design.
Some issues with lighting
Summit's 24-Inch Outdoor Rated Compact Refrigerator is a great option for any outdoor entertaining space since it has 4.6 cubic feet of inside storage space, a lovely stainless steel finish, a waterproof design, and a security lock on the door. There is more than enough space for the necessities—and then some—with door racks, 3 adjustable glass shelves, and a scalloped bottom for summer-fun champagne, rosés, and whites.
This commercial-grade outdoor refrigerator is designed with an automated defrost system that prevents unwelcome ice buildup, a digital thermostat that is simple to monitor and regulate, and an internal lighting system for all-day use. It has all the bells and whistles you need in a small package. The fridge can also be installed as a freestanding appliance or converted into an outdoor kitchen island. The door can be attached to either the left or right side because it is reversible.
2. Best Compact: DCS Outdoor Refrigerator w/Right Hinge
PRODUCT SPECS:
Weight: 120 lbs
Dimensions: 23.87 x 24.12 x 34 inches (WxDxH)
Cut-Out Dimensions (built-in): 23.87 x 24.12 x 34 (WxDxH)
PROS:
5.1 cubic feet of interior storage space
Can either be set up in a cabinet system or used as a freestanding tool.
Door has food/can racks
Made from heavy-duty 304 stainless steel
Fault system informs you if the temperature falls beyond the normal range
CONS:
More pricey option.
No wine rack.
Door can only be used on the right side
The 5.1 cubic feet of interior storage space provided by the DCS compact outdoor fridge is generous for cooks and homeowners. It is ideal for all types of food and beverages because it is one of the more substantial compact models on our list. This outdoor refrigerator is equipped for the elements because it is made of sturdy 304 stainless steel. An active fault system and a right-side hinged door that rings an alert if the interior temperature deviates from the normal range, an interior lighting system, can racks, two and a half shelves, and a sizable bottom space for larger objects are also included.
3. Best Budget: Bull Outdoor Stainless Steel Front Panel Refrigerator
PRODUCT SPECS:
Weight: 63 lbs
Dimensions: 19.875 x 20.5 x 32.75 inches (WxDxH)
Cut-Out Dimensions (built-in): 20.5 x 20.75 x 33 inches (WxDxH)
PROS:
Budget-friendly
Easy setup; built to blend perfectly with outside cabinetry
Adaptable shelving that includes a fruit and vegetable drawer
63-lb weight
Sizable storage capacity
Reversible door
CONS:
Unlockable door
Less technologically advanced than other models.
Less durable than other fridges
Despite being a less priced model, this outdoor mini fridge from Bull Outdoor Products is a great option for anyone considering installing an outdoor kitchen. This outdoor refrigerator has more than enough space for the necessities of grilling and chilling thanks to its 4.5 cubic feet of storage space, sturdy stainless steel construction, and practical beverage dispenser that can store five 12oz cans at once.
We appreciate this Bull Outdoor Stainless Steel Front Panel Refrigerator because of its adaptable storage. It has two adjustable shelves in addition to a drawer for fruits and veggies at the bottom. Additionally, it's simple to install and clean. The door can also be turned around so that you can alter the opening's direction, depending on where it is placed.
4. Best Built-in Refrigerator: Summit Built-in Drawer Refrigerator
PRODUCT SPECS:
Weight: 106 lbs
Dimensions: 23.63 x 25 x 34 inches (WxDxH)
Cut-Out Dimensions (built-in): 24 x 25 ⅝ x 34 ¼ (WxDxH)
PROS:
Despite being more expensive, the drawer design is preferred because of the accessibility and convenience it offers.
Can either be utilized as a freestanding device or integrated into an outdoor kitchen island.
Internal dividers can be adjusted
If the interior temperature exceeds the suggested range, an alarm rings.
CONS:
Drawer design is more pricey.
Not as sizable as other outdoor mini fridges
Some people doubt the quality is on par with the price.
These days, appliance drawers are a trendy design. Drawer appliances, such as dishwashers and microwaves, offer unparalleled accessibility and convenience in the kitchen. So anyone establishing outdoor kitchens and entertaining areas should give Summit's outdoor-rated drawer fridge system a look.
This model is a big winner because it has 3.4 cubic feet of storage space and a waterproof construction. With a digital thermostat and an external readout for precise temperature control, customizable internal dividers for a more personalized user experience. an automatic defrost system to prevent unwanted buildup, and LED lighting for whole day use, this outdoor fridge is suitable for both freestanding and built-in use.
5. Best Freestanding Mini Fridge: Danby 4.4 Cu.Ft. Outdoor Mini Fridge
PRODUCT SPECS:
Weight: 68 lbs
Dimensions: 21.31 x 20.75 x 33.06 inches (WxDxH)
PROS:
Among the most affordable outdoor mini fridges
4.4 cubic-foot storage space.
Freestanding model that can be installed anywhere that is accessible to power.
Made from weatherized materials and pieces.
Reversible door hinge.
CONS:
Not ideal to be set up in an outdoor kitchen island
Shelves are more appropriate for cans, not bottles
A budget fridge, yet some technology and features found in other products are missing in this model.
This Danby model is a recommended option if you're seeking for a standalone outdoor small fridge. This appliance, which has a modern design and 4.4 cubic feet of storage space, is ideal for small groups on the patio or deck. This model is rust-resistant and weather-ready thanks to its UV-protected plastics, waterproof electrical housing, and other outdoor-rated parts and components. It works well even in a tropical climate.
Additionally EnergyStar certified, this outdoor mini fridge boasts a distinctive interior storage layout. There isn't much that this fridge can't contain with room for tall bottles, movable shelves, and a drawer for vegetables and fruits. The fridge is on lockable wheels, with a reversible door, LED internal lighting, and an unbeatable price.
FAQs
Still undecided about which one of the best outdoor refrigerators to choose? Read the FAQs below.
1. What type of fridge can be used outdoors?
For an outdoor refrigerator to be deemed weatherproof, it must be made of 304-grade stainless steel. This premium material prevents corrosion and rust brought on by bad weather.
2. Does an outdoor refrigerator last longer than a regular one?
Outdoor fridges come in a wide range of designs and sizes and include sturdy materials and thermally efficient construction. They are a little more expensive than normal refrigerators, but they will keep up better against the elements.
3. How to protect an outdoor fridge during the winter?
Avoid covering your outdoor refrigerator with a cover because doing so can simply encourage moisture to build up and harm the equipment. Instead, add a coat of stainless steel finish on the exterior to protect it.
FINAL VERDICT
In conclusion, there are some good reasons to get an outdoor refrigerator. Not only does it provide you with fresh food at the height of summer, but it also provides you with a convenient place to store all your picnic supplies and a comfortable place to eat. The best outdoor refrigerators are designed for outdoor use and can withstand the elements. They have the capacity to hold a lot of food and beverages and they can keep them cold for a long time. They are easy to maintain and they require very little energy to operate.
