Antarctic Star Compact Refrigerator vs Frigidaire EFMIS171 Retro Mini Portable Personal
Updated July 2026 — Antarctic Star Compact Refrigerator wins on depth and weight, Frigidaire EFMIS171 Retro Mini Portable Personal wins on noise level and width.
The Frigidaire EFMIS171 offers better portability and a lower price, making it the more appealing choice for budget-conscious consumers.
Why Antarctic Star Compact Refrigerator is better
Cooling Efficiency
Both cool effectively, but Antarctic Star cools faster.
Quiet Operation
Antarctic Star operates at only 25dB.
Removable Shelf
Antarctic Star has a flexible storage option.
Why Frigidaire EFMIS171 Retro Mini Portable Personal is better
Price
Frigidaire is $4 cheaper.
Weight
Frigidaire weighs only 3 pounds.
Environmental Impact
Frigidaire uses thermoelectric technology.
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | Antarctic Star Compact Refrigerator | Frigidaire EFMIS171 Retro Mini Portable Personal |
|---|---|---|
| Cooling Temp | 32°F below ambient | 32°F below ambient |
| Power Options | AC/DC | AC/DC |
| Design | Modern | Retro |
| Charging Included | Yes | Yes |
| Eco-Friendly | Freon-free | CFC-free |
Dimension comparison
Overview of the Antarctic Star Compact Refrigerator
The Antarctic Star Compact Refrigerator is designed for those seeking a portable cooling solution for personal items. Priced at $36.99, it has a capacity of 4 liters, accommodating up to six 12 oz. cans. This mini fridge is a versatile choice for bedrooms, offices, and even cars, thanks to its AC/DC power supply options. With a sales rank of 7031, it appeals to a niche market that values compactness and functionality.
The Antarctic Star refrigerator features a removable shelf that enhances its storage flexibility, making it suitable for items like skincare products, beverages, and food. Its quiet operation, at only 25dB, ensures it won’t disturb your environment. This product is particularly attractive for users who prioritize energy efficiency and convenience.
Overview of the Frigidaire EFMIS171 Retro Mini Portable Personal Fridge
The Frigidaire EFMIS171 Retro Mini Portable Personal Fridge is another attractive option, priced slightly lower at $32.99. It also has a 4-liter capacity, allowing it to hold six 12 oz. cans. This fridge is designed for everyday use, making it ideal for home, office, or dorm situations. With a best-selling rank of 557, it has garnered significant attention for its retro design and portability.
This mini fridge weighs only 3 pounds, making it easy to move around. It includes both AC and DC charging capabilities, ensuring compatibility with home outlets and car chargers. The Frigidaire fridge boasts additional features like thermoelectric technology, which is CFC-free and environmentally friendly, making it a responsible choice for eco-conscious consumers.
Design and Portability
In terms of design, the Antarctic Star Compact Refrigerator is sleek and modern, primarily available in black. Its dimensions are compact, allowing it to fit seamlessly into various environments. The removable shelf adds to its practicality, providing flexibility in how you organize your items.
Conversely, the Frigidaire EFMIS171 boasts a retro aesthetic that appeals to those who appreciate a classic look. Its flush-back design makes it adaptable for placement in various rooms. Weighing just 3 pounds, it is exceptionally portable, making it a solid choice for users who are frequently on the move. The overall design of both fridges caters to users looking for stylish yet functional options.
Cooling Efficiency
When it comes to cooling efficiency, both refrigerators are designed to chill items effectively. The Antarctic Star can cool up to 32°F below ambient temperature and can reach temperatures of 50°F within just two hours. This rapid cooling capability makes it efficient for quickly chilling beverages or skincare products.
On the other hand, the Frigidaire EFMIS171 also cools down to 32°F below ambient temperature, which ensures that your items remain at the optimal temperature. It is capable of warming items up to 140°F, adding versatility to its functionality. Both fridges excel in cooling performance, but the Frigidaire offers an additional warming feature, which could be beneficial for certain users.
Power Options
Power options are a crucial aspect of portability, and both refrigerators shine in this category. The Antarctic Star Compact Refrigerator can be connected to a 120V home power supply or a 12V car power supply, making it suitable for a variety of situations, from home use to camping trips.
Similarly, the Frigidaire EFMIS171 offers dual power options with included AC and DC chargers, allowing it to be plugged into standard outlets or used in vehicles. This flexibility is essential for users who want to utilize their mini fridge in multiple locations. Both models are well-equipped for on-the-go lifestyles, but the Frigidaire's emphasis on portability makes it slightly more user-friendly.
Environmental Impact
Environmental considerations are increasingly important for consumers today. The Antarctic Star Compact Refrigerator uses a semiconductor refrigeration chip that is freon-free, ensuring a lower environmental impact. Its quiet operation also contributes to energy savings, which is beneficial for those conscious of their energy usage.
The Frigidaire EFMIS171 takes environmental responsibility a step further by utilizing thermoelectric technology that is completely CFC-free. This makes it a more eco-friendly option, appealing to buyers who prioritize sustainability in their purchases. Both units are designed to be energy-efficient, but the Frigidaire has a distinct advantage in terms of its advanced safety technology and environmental focus.
Price Comparison
In the price comparison, the Antarctic Star Compact Refrigerator retails for $36.99, while the Frigidaire EFMIS171 is priced at $32.99. This makes the Frigidaire about 17% cheaper than the Antarctic Star. Given that both refrigerators offer similar capacities and features, price can be a deciding factor for budget-conscious consumers. While the Antarctic Star offers appealing features, the Frigidaire provides excellent value at a lower cost, which may sway many buyers toward it.
Which should you buy?
When deciding between the Antarctic Star Compact Refrigerator and the Frigidaire EFMIS171, consider your specific needs. If you value retro design, portability, and a lower price point, the Frigidaire is the better option. However, if you prefer a modern aesthetic and the flexibility of a removable shelf, the Antarctic Star may suit you better. Ultimately, both fridges provide excellent functionality and efficiency, making either a solid choice for personal cooling needs.

