Subcold Super50 LED vs Subcold Super85 LED - Under-Counter Fridge

Size and Capacity: Super85 LED offers significantly more storage space

The Subcold Super85 LED is substantially larger than the Super50 LED, with a net capacity of 80L compared to the Super50’s 46L. This represents a 74% increase in usable space, making it ideal for storing larger volumes of drinks, wine bottles, or snacks. The Super85 also stands taller at 848mm, fitting under standard kitchen counters, while the Super50 remains a compact tabletop unit at 530mm. Despite its greater height, the Super85 maintains a similar depth (435mm) and slightly wider width (475mm), enhancing its footprint efficiency. For users needing room for multiple cases of beer or a full wine collection, the Super85's expanded capacity provides clear practical advantages.

Cooling Performance: Super85 LED features a digital thermostat for precise temperature control

The Subcold Super85 LED includes a digital thermostat, offering more precise temperature regulation than the adjustable thermostat on the Super50 LED. While both models support a cooling range suitable for beverages—Super50 at 3–18°C and Super85 at 0–18°C—the Super85’s digital system allows for finer adjustments, potentially improving consistency in maintaining optimal conditions for wine and delicate drinks. The Super85’s ability to cool down to 0°C makes it better suited for chilling beverages quickly or storing items requiring colder temperatures. This enhanced control, combined with advanced compressor cooling technology in both models, ensures reliable performance across varied environments.

Energy Efficiency: Super50 LED consumes less energy annually despite smaller size

Despite being smaller, the Subcold Super50 LED is more energy-efficient, consuming only 66kWh per year compared to the Super85 LED’s 78kWh. This means the Super50 uses about 15% less energy annually, translating into lower long-term electricity costs. Both models are described as having the lowest energy consumption in their class, but the Super50’s figure is notably more efficient. For environmentally conscious buyers or those seeking to minimise utility bills, this difference makes the Super50 a more economical choice over time, even though it has a smaller capacity.

Noise Levels: Super85 LED operates more quietly than the Super50 LED

The Subcold Super85 LED produces only 39dB of noise, making it quieter than the Super50 LED, which operates at 42dB. This 3dB difference may seem small but is perceptible in quiet environments such as bedrooms or home offices. The Super85’s lower noise output enhances its suitability for use in living spaces where minimal sound disruption is desired. Both models are described as super low noise, but the Super85’s figure gives it an edge in acoustic performance, particularly for users who value a peaceful environment.

Interior Features: Super85 LED includes more shelves and greater adjustability

The Subcold Super85 LED comes with four removable and adjustable chrome wire shelves, compared to the Super50 LED’s three fixed shelves. This additional shelf space allows for more organised storage and greater flexibility when arranging different bottle sizes or cans. The adjustable feature on the Super85 enables users to customise internal layout based on their needs, a benefit not available on the Super50. Both models include internal LED lighting and a security lock with two keys, ensuring visibility and safety of stored items. However, the extra shelf and adjustability in the Super85 offer superior functional versatility.

Price Comparison: Super50 LED is significantly cheaper upfront

The Subcold Super50 LED is priced at £158.49, while the Super85 LED costs £229.99—a difference of £71.50. This makes the Super50 about 31% cheaper than the Super85, offering substantial savings for budget-conscious buyers. Although the Super85 provides more capacity and features, the price gap is considerable. The Super50’s lower cost, combined with its strong bestseller rank of 17, suggests it delivers excellent value for users who don’t require extensive storage. For those prioritising affordability without sacrificing core functionality, the Super50 presents a compelling financial advantage.

Which should you buy?

Choose the Subcold Super50 LED if you need a compact, affordable, and highly energy-efficient mini fridge for a dorm, office, or small kitchen space. It offers solid cooling performance, low noise at 42dB, and saves you £71.50 upfront compared to the Super85 LED. Its 46L capacity and three fixed shelves are sufficient for casual use. Opt for the Subcold Super85 LED only if you require significantly more storage—80L—and are willing to pay £229.99 for a taller, under-counter model with a digital thermostat, four adjustable shelves, and quieter operation at 39dB. If space and budget allow, the Super85 delivers enhanced functionality; otherwise, the Super50 remains the smarter, more cost-effective choice.