ARCTIC CHEF Mini Refrigerator, Compact Freezer vs Midea MERM17B0ASL 1.7 Cu Ft Mini Fridge, Compact
Updated July 2026 — ARCTIC CHEF Mini Refrigerator, Compact Freezer leads on price and sales rank.
The ARCTIC CHEF Mini Refrigerator offers more storage space and a stylish design, while the Midea MERM17B0ASL is more affordable and energy efficient.
Why ARCTIC CHEF Mini Refrigerator, Compact Freezer is better
Storage Capacity
3.2 cu ft vs 1.7 cu ft
Design
Stylish platinum stainless finish
Features
Includes ice cube chamber and slide-out shelving
Why Midea MERM17B0ASL 1.7 Cu Ft Mini Fridge, Compact is better
Price
$119.98 vs $159.00
Energy Efficiency
Energy Star certified
Noise Level
Designed for low noise operation
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | ARCTIC CHEF Mini Refrigerator, Compact Freezer | Midea MERM17B0ASL 1.7 Cu Ft Mini Fridge, Compact |
|---|---|---|
| Reversible Door | Yes | Yes |
| Adjustable Thermostat | Yes | Yes |
| Built-in Freezer | Yes | No |
| Energy Star | No | Yes |
| Noise Level | Not specified | Low |
Dimension comparison
Price Comparison
The Midea MERM17B0ASL is about 25% cheaper than the ARCTIC CHEF Mini Refrigerator, priced at $119.98 compared to $159.00. This significant price difference makes the Midea an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers looking for a compact fridge. While both products are designed for similar environments, such as dorms and small offices, the cost savings associated with the Midea can be an important factor for students or those living in shared spaces.
Size and Capacity
The ARCTIC CHEF Mini Refrigerator offers a larger capacity of 3.2 cubic feet compared to the Midea's 1.7 cubic feet. This means the ARCTIC CHEF can store more food and beverages, making it a more suitable choice for users who require additional storage. The extra space in the ARCTIC CHEF is beneficial for those who want to keep a variety of snacks and drinks on hand, while the Midea, being smaller, is ideal for more minimal storage needs.
Energy Efficiency
The Midea MERM17B0ASL is Energy Star certified, which indicates that it meets government energy efficiency standards. This feature can lead to savings on electricity bills over time, especially for users who keep their mini fridge running continuously. In contrast, while the ARCTIC CHEF Mini Refrigerator advertises energy-saving capabilities with an annual power consumption of just 5 kilowatts, it does not have the Energy Star certification. For environmentally conscious consumers, the Midea's certification may weigh heavily in their decision-making process.
Design and Aesthetics
Both mini fridges feature a reversible door, which offers flexibility in placement. However, the ARCTIC CHEF Mini Refrigerator boasts a stylish platinum stainless finish, appealing to those who prioritize aesthetics in their living space. The Midea, on the other hand, comes in a steel gray color. While both designs are functional, the choice between them may boil down to personal style preferences, with the ARCTIC CHEF potentially adding a touch of elegance to a room.
Noise Levels
The Midea MERM17B0ASL is designed to operate with low noise, making it suitable for bedrooms or quiet office environments. Although the ARCTIC CHEF Mini Refrigerator does not explicitly mention its noise level, the lack of such a specification might suggest that it could be noisier than the Midea. For users sensitive to noise or those who plan to place the fridge in a quiet setting, the Midea might be the more suitable choice.
Storage Options
The ARCTIC CHEF Mini Refrigerator features a built-in ice cube chamber and additional slide-out shelving for easy cleaning and organization. This extra functionality allows for better management of food and drink storage. Conversely, the Midea includes a built-in 2-liter bottle storage on the door and an adjustable/removable shelf, offering customization for taller containers. While both fridges provide useful storage options, the ARCTIC CHEF's additional features may be more appealing for users who require versatility in their storage solutions.
Sales Rank
The Midea MERM17B0ASL has a sales rank of 3157, while the ARCTIC CHEF Mini Refrigerator is ranked at 5630. This indicates that the Midea is more popular among consumers, possibly due to its lower price and efficient features. A higher sales rank can often suggest greater customer satisfaction and demand, making the Midea a compelling option for potential buyers who value popularity as a metric for quality.
Which should you buy?
When deciding between the ARCTIC CHEF Mini Refrigerator and the Midea MERM17B0ASL, consider your individual needs and budget. If you require more storage space and prefer a stylish design, the ARCTIC CHEF may be the better choice despite its higher price. However, if energy efficiency, lower cost, and a quieter operation are more important to you, the Midea is a strong contender. Ultimately, both products serve their purpose well, but your specific requirements will dictate the best fit for your lifestyle.

