If you're in the market for a new freezer, you're probably trying to decide between an upright and a chest freezer. Upright freezers are great for small kitchens, as they can be installed under a countertop or in a corner, taking up less floor space.
They also tend to be more energy-efficient, using up to 25% less energy than chest freezers. However, upright freezers can be more expensive upfront.
In contrast, chest freezers are often larger and more spacious, making them ideal for families or households that need to store a lot of food.
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Types and Features
Upright and chest freezers come in a variety of types, each with its own unique features.
A chest freezer, for example, is a compact and space-saving option that can be placed in a garage or pantry. They are ideal for small households or those with limited storage space.
Some upright freezers have a capacity of up to 20 cu. ft., making them suitable for larger families or households that need to store bulk items.
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Storage
Chest freezers have more storage space than upright freezers, with around 20 percent more usable space, according to Consumer Reports.
You can store wider and more oddly shaped items in a chest freezer, making it a great option for those with unique food storage needs.
In terms of storage capacity, both types of freezers are typically capped at 25 cubic feet, but chest freezers are more common in this size range.
This means that if you're looking for a freezer with ample storage space, a chest freezer is likely your best bet.
However, if you prioritize ease of organization and accessibility, an upright freezer might be a better choice.
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Best for Appearance
If you're looking for a freezer that won't stick out like a sore thumb, consider an upright freezer. They come in more colors than chest models, making it easier to match your kitchen decor.
Upright freezers are designed to blend in with your kitchen, making them perfect for high-traffic living spaces.
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Best for Noise
If you're looking for a freezer that won't disrupt your household, a chest freezer is a good option, but only if it's a manual defrost model, which will be quieter than an upright.
Manual defrost chest freezers are designed to be more quiet than their upright counterparts, making them a great choice for noise-sensitive households.
A chest freezer is generally quieter than an upright freezer, but the noise level can vary depending on the model and type.
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Considerations
If you're deciding between an upright and a chest freezer, consider the space you have available. Upright freezers take up less floor space than chest freezers.
When it comes to organization, upright freezers have more organization accessories than chest freezers. This can be a game-changer if you have a lot of different types of food to store.
If you're concerned about maintenance, know that upright freezers have an auto-defrost feature available, which can make cleaning and upkeep easier.
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Cost
The cost of a freezer is an important consideration. Chest freezers are the most economical type, offering great value for their price.
If budget isn't a concern, upright freezers can be a good option. They provide less usable storage capacity, about 10 to 15 percent less than chest models.
Professional installation costs range from $100 to $300 for upright freezers and from $100 to $250 for chest freezers.
Pros and Cons
Upright freezers are favored for their efficient and convenient design, making them easier to clean and maintain.
Foods in upright freezers are easier to access, and they offer more organization accessories than chest freezers.
Upright freezers take up less floor space than chest freezers, which can be a big plus for smaller kitchens.
The auto-defrost feature is available in upright freezers, which can be a convenient feature to have.
Chest freezers, on the other hand, take up more floor space and have fewer organization accessories than upright freezers.
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Chest freezers are more energy-efficient and cheaper to maintain than upright freezers, which can save you money in the long run.
Chest freezers can keep food fresher for longer in the event of a power outage, which can be a lifesaver in emergency situations.
Chest freezers have a longer lifespan than upright freezers, lasting up to 15-20 years with proper maintenance.
Would You Rather
In the kitchen, decisions can be tough, but one thing's for sure: having a reliable freezer is a must. You can choose between an upright freezer and a chest freezer.
An upright freezer is easier to find things in, which is a big plus for those who like to keep their food organized. It's also a great option if you have limited floor space.
On the other hand, a chest freezer uses less electricity, which can save you money on your utility bills. This is especially true if you plan on storing a lot of frozen food.
In the end, the decision comes down to personal preference and your specific needs.
Performance and Efficiency
When choosing between an upright and a chest freezer, performance and efficiency are crucial factors to consider. A chest freezer uses up less energy than an upright freezer, providing relief to the planet and your wallet.
The airtight seal at the top of a chest freezer keeps the food inside fresh, requiring less energy to keep the container cool. This is in contrast to upright freezers, which are prone to having slight gaps around the vertical door frame, resulting in more energy being used.
A chest freezer can hold its cold temperatures very well due to the built-in sidewall insulation, using the least amount of energy to run. This means that during a power outage or a household move, an unplugged chest freezer can keep the contents frozen for two or even three days, depending on the frozen food quantity.
Choosing a chest freezer with a manual defrost can use half the energy of a self-defrosting upright freezer. For the best energy efficiency, look for a freezer that is Energy Star qualified.
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Here's a comparison of the energy efficiency of upright and chest freezers:
Ultimately, a chest freezer is the better choice for energy efficiency, especially if you opt for a model that is Energy Star qualified.
Maintenance and Installation
Before you bring your new upright freezer home, make sure you have enough space for it. Consider the path to and inside the house, and how many turns or doorways you'll need to go through to get it in place.
An upright freezer has a smaller footprint than a chest model, similar to a refrigerator. Think in terms of placing a refrigerator when considering a location for an upright freezer.
It needs room for height as well as width, door swing space, and at least an inch behind it.
Installation
Before you bring your new freezer home, make sure you have enough space to place it. Check the measurements of the freezer and the area where you plan to put it to ensure it will fit.
A chest freezer has a larger footprint than an upright model, even a small one, so be sure to leave enough room around it for easy opening and closing of the door. Consider the path to and inside the house, and how many turns or doorways you'll need to go through to get it in place.
Chest models are now made slightly narrower than they used to be, but you may still need to remove a door or two to get it inside the house. Always locate a freezer in a dry, level area.
An upright freezer, on the other hand, has a smaller footprint, similar to a refrigerator. Think about the space you'd need for a refrigerator when considering a location for an upright freezer.
Consider the door swing and whether it's reversible, as some upright freezers can be installed with the door opening in either direction.
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Repair and Maintenance
Manual defrost chest freezers require several hours or a whole day to defrost, but they have fewer components that need maintenance.
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Most manual defrost chest freezers have fewer components that will need repair down the line, making them a more straightforward option.
Upright freezers, on the other hand, are often self-defrosting, which means there are more components inside that may need repair, including automatic heating elements and drip trays.
However, owning an upright freezer means you won't have to handle the task of manually defrosting the freezer, which can be a time-consuming and arduous process.
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Comparison and Selection
When choosing between an upright and chest freezer, it's essential to consider the size of the space where the freezer will be installed. Upright freezers have a smaller footprint compared to chest freezers.
The size of the freezer is also a crucial factor, as both types come in similar capacities ranging from 5 to 25 cubic feet. Consider how much storage space you need and choose the type that fits your requirements.
The type of freezer you choose will also impact your energy consumption. Chest freezers use less energy compared to upright freezers, which can help reduce your utility bills.
Here's a quick comparison of the two types:
Sizes
Freezers come in a range of sizes, typically from 5 to 25 cubic feet.
You'll find that the same size chest and upright models of freezers can have different capacities.
Most upright freezers are self-defrosting, which is a big plus for many owners.
It's also worth noting that not all freezers are self-defrosting models, so be sure to confirm that before making a purchase.
Mid-range freezer sizes are often easier to find in stores.
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How They Differ
When choosing between an upright and a chest freezer, it's essential to consider their differences in design and functionality.
Chest freezers are generally lower to the ground with a lift-up door and baskets, making them a great option for storing bulky items like game or meat.
Upright freezers, on the other hand, stand vertical with a front-opening door and shelves, ideal for everyday frozen foods.
Both chest and upright freezers come in a range of sizes, typically between 5 to 25 cubic feet.
Maintenance-wise, chest freezers can be labor and time-intensive if you need to manually defrost them, while upright freezers require less upkeep.
In terms of noise, chest freezers are generally less noisy, a plus for those who value a quiet kitchen.
When it comes to energy consumption, chest freezers use less energy than upright freezers.
If you're looking for a freezer that takes up less space, an upright freezer might be the better choice, with a smaller footprint compared to chest freezers.
However, chest freezers are often less expensive to purchase upfront.
Finally, both chest and upright freezers can last for up to 14 years, providing long-lasting storage for your frozen goods.
Our Top Picks
Crosley's 14.1 Cu. Ft. White Upright Freezer is the top pick due to its electronic temperature control and audible temperature alarm.
This Crosley freezer also features a lock with key, LED interior lighting, and a Turbo Freeze setting for optimal food freshness.
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The Frigidaire 13.0 Cu. Ft. White Upright Freezer is a budget-friendly option with a frost-free design that eliminates the need for manual defrosting.
This Frigidaire freezer also has a tighter seal to lock in cold air for two days after a power outage.
The Monogram 8.34 Cu. Ft. Custom Panel Smart Integrated Column Freezer is a luxury option with a water filtration system, remote connectivity via WiFi, and adjustable glass shelves.
Its fully integrated column design with a concealed hinge offers a seamless look that installs flush with surrounding cabinetry.
Whirlpool's 22 Cu. Ft. Chest Freezer is a top pick with a 22-cubic-foot capacity and smooth, rounded Easy Clean Corners for effortless cleaning.
This Whirlpool freezer also features a secure key lock and three large storage baskets for organizing frozen foods.
The Danby 7.0 Cu. Ft. White Chest Freezer is a popular option with excellent energy efficiency and superb temperature quality.
Its manual defrost function and defrost drain make cleaning and maintenance a breeze.
The Samsung 7.6 Cu. Ft. Silver Kimchi & Specialty Chest Refrigerator/Freezer is a unique option with different temperature settings for storing and preserving specialty foods.
Its spacious design and push-button temperature control make it ideal for those who need to store a variety of foods.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the cons of a chest freezer?
Chest freezers have a larger footprint and can be harder to organize, making them less space-efficient and more challenging to use
What is an advantage of a chest type freezer?
Chest freezers are more energy-efficient due to their top-opening design, which minimizes cold air loss. This design helps reduce energy consumption and keeps your frozen food fresh for longer.
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