Midea 3.3-Cubic Foot Compact Refrigerator [Detailed Review]

Midea WHS-121LB1 Refrigerator, 3.3 Cubic Feet, Black

The Midea 3.3-Cubic Foot Compact Refrigerator is a product of Midea Group.

Midea Group is a Chinese brand that manufactures electrical appliances. Its headquarters is located in China.

The company was founded 50 years ago as a small bottle lid manufacturing company.

In 2011, the group declared its sales revenue at US$22.2 billion, making it one of the most successful private companies in China.

Midea has expanded its products from just bottle lids and air conditioners, to include a variety of home and commercial electrical appliances such as kettles, washing machines, refrigerators, dishwashers, microwave ovens, vacuum cleaners, and water dispensers.

Let’s take a look at what the Midea 3.3-Cubic Foot Compact Refrigerator has to offer.

Who Needs the Midea 3.3-Cubic Foot Compact Refrigerator?

The Midea 3.3-Cubic Foot Compact Refrigerator is a refrigerator that sits comfortably between compact and sizable. It is well suited for people who do not have enough room to keep a refrigerator or those who would only be shooting themselves in the leg by buying a large refrigerator because they neither have so many items to store in it nor the installation space for the unit.

It is a compact refrigerator with a small freezer compartment to keep a few items frozen and at temperatures lower than the range in the refrigeration space.

Students can make use of this refrigerator in their dorm rooms while in college because it doesn’t take up so much space.

Nursing mothers would enjoy this refrigerator because not only can they store breast milk in bottles for their babies to take at night, but they can also keep other items for themselves such as fruits, vegetables, and beverages.

If you have a small or large office, or even if you work in an open office with other people, having this refrigerator beside you keeps your items safe and adds more style to your space.

Midea WHS-121LB1 Refrigerator, 3.3 Cubic Feet, Black

 

 

 

 

 

Features of the Midea 3.3-Cubic Foot Compact Refrigerator

Design

The Midea 3.3-Cubic Foot Compact Refrigerator is bell-shaped and has a flat back design that allows it to fit in even smaller spaces. It is not portable, but you can easily place it under counters or beside your table in your office or home.

The door of this refrigerator has reversible hinges, which means it can be adjusted to open in either direction (left or right). This even gives you more options for where to place your refrigerator.

In addition, its legs are adjustable. If the surface where your fridge is placed is not leveled enough, you can adjust the legs so that your fridge sits properly without tilting.

The door has a decent array of shelves behind it. It has a CanStor beverage shelf that can contain up to 10 beverage cans. It also has a tall bottle shelf that can house a 2-liter bottle.

How cool does that sound?

All the door shelves create more space for your items in the main refrigerator.

The refrigerator also has removable and adjustable wire shelves. Although many people prefer glass shelves, wire shelves also hold items well enough.

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With adjustable shelves, you can organize this refrigerator in different ways.

More so, the refrigerator is easy to clean because the shelves are removable. You can also decide to clean the shelves when you take them out of the refrigerator.

Freezer Compartment

The Midea 3.3-Cubic Foot Compact Refrigerator has a freezer compartment sitting in its refrigerator space. This is unlike many refrigerators of the same size which have a separate and larger freezer compartment on top of the fridge.

The freezer of this refrigerator can contain small items such as ice trays, ice cream, and other small products including chocolate bars and other snacks.

It may form frost due to its extremely low temperatures. When it does, you have to manually defrost it to keep your refrigerator in good working condition. It could also be done during the general cleaning of your fridge which should be carried out monthly.

Temperature Control

The Midea 3.3-Cubic Foot Compact Refrigerator has a mechanical thermostat for regulating the internal temperature. You can set it to whatever level you desire.

Keeping a thermometer in your freezer would make it easier to select a thermostat level that would keep all your items cool.

Connectivity

The Midea 3.3-Cubic Foot Compact Refrigerator comes with only an AC cord for plugging it to 120V AC sockets in homes and offices. You can also connect it to an AC outlet in your RV and enjoy your refrigerator.

It doesn’t have a DC adapter like portable mini-refrigerators because it isn’t so small that it can be comfortably used in cars.

Nevertheless, you can transport it in your vehicle and plug it up at your destination. If you want to use it outdoors, you can simply create an extension from an AC socket indoors.

Midea WHS-121LB1 Refrigerator, 3.3 Cubic Feet, Black

 

 

Pros of the Midea 3.3-Cubic Foot Compact Refrigerator

i. It has a compact flat back design and can fit into small spaces.

ii. It has a freezer compartment.

iii. Has CanStor and tall bottle storage so that you can maximize its capacity.

iv. Its adjustable legs stabilize the unit on surfaces that are not leveled.

v. It has removable and adjustable wire shelves for better cleaning and organization.

vi. It has a thermostat for better temperature control.

vii. It is fairly quiet.

Midea WHS-121LB1 Refrigerator, 3.3 Cubic Feet, Black

 

 

 

 

 

Cons of the Midea 3.3-Cubic Foot Compact Refrigerator

i. None that stands out.

 

Check out these other in-depth articles/reviews…

 

 

Alternatives to the Midea 3.3-Cubic Foot Compact Refrigerator

Larger Size

Danby 4.4-Cubic Foot Compact Refrigerator

The Danby 4.4-Cubic Foot Compact Refrigerator is suitable for individuals looking for refrigerators larger than the Midea 3.3-Cubic Foot Compact Refrigerator.

An advantage of this refrigerator is that it doesn’t have a freezer compartment. So, you have very large refrigerator space for yourself.

It also comes in a very attractive design. Its interior is completely black. It uses white LED lights for illumination, creating a cool ambiance in the refrigerator.

This refrigerator also has a vegetable crisper for storing fruits and vegetables, CanStor beverage storage at the door, and a thermostat for regulating the internal temperature.

You can take advantage of our detailed review of this product to learn more about it.

Danby DAR044A6DDB 4.4 cu.ft. Contemporary Classic Compact All Refrigerator, Iridium Silver Steel

 

 

 

 

Separate Freezer Compartment

Costway 3.4-Cubic Foot Compact Refrigerator

Refrigerators come in varying designs, and some of these take freezer compartment into greater consideration than others.

The Costway 3.4-Cubic Foot Compact Refrigerator has a separate freezer compartment with its own door. With this, you can store more items in your freezer apart from ice cube trays. You can put in as many beverage bottles and frozen foods as you want.

The fridge is also big enough and has a decent array of shelves for drinks, food and other items. Its thermostat functions properly, so you don’t have to worry about the items in your fridge freezing over.

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It is a great alternative for people looking for a refrigerator of similar size but larger freezer space.

Our extensive review of this product offers more information about it. Read it here.

COSTWAY Compact Refrigerator, 3.4 cu. ft. Classic Fridge with Reversible Door, Adjustable Removable Glass Shelves, Mechanical Control, Recessed Handle for Dorm, Office, Apartment (White)

 

 

 

Glass Shelf Option

Daewoo 2.8-Cubic Foot Compact Refrigerator

The Daewoo 2.8-Cubic Foot Compact Refrigerator is a bit smaller than the Midea 3.3-Cubic Foot Compact Refrigerator.

Apart from size, they also differ in some other features. The Daewoo refrigerator has glass shelves which are much better and preferable than the wire shelves found in the Midea compact refrigerator.

Glass shelves are easier to clean, attractive, see-through, and more durable.

That being said, the Daewoo 2.8-Cubic Foot Compact Refrigerator has no freezer compartment. The temperature of its entire fridge space is controlled with the aid of a thermostat.

It is a good alternative for individuals looking for an appliance that gives a retro feel to their room, in addition to providing them with enough refrigerator space.

Daewoo Retro Compact Refrigerator, 2.8 cu. ft., Mint

 

 

 

 

 

Quick Comparison 

  Featured Product Larger size Separate Freezer Compartment Glass Shelf Option
Product

Midea 3.3-Cubic Foot Compact Refrigerator

Midea WHS-121LB1 Refrigerator, 3.3 Cubic Feet, Black

Click here to get it on Amazon!

Danby 4.4-Cubic Foot Compact Refrigerator

Danby DAR044A6DDB 4.4 cu.ft. Contemporary Classic Compact All Refrigerator, Iridium Silver Steel

Click here to get it on Amazon!

Costway 3.4-Cubic Foot Compact Refrigerator

COSTWAY Compact Refrigerator, 3.4 cu. ft. Classic Fridge with Reversible Door, Adjustable Removable Glass Shelves, Mechanical Control, Recessed Handle for Dorm, Office, Apartment (White)

Click here to get it on Amazon!

Daewoo 2.8-Cubic Foot Compact Refrigerator

Daewoo Retro Compact Refrigerator, 2.8 cu. ft., Mint

Click here to get it on Amazon!

Dimensions 18.6 inches x 17.7 inches x 33.9 inches 21.3 inches x 20.8 inches x 33.1 inches 17.0 inches x 17.5 inches x 38.5 inches 21.6 inches x 19.2 inches x 28.3 inches

 

 

Capacity 3.3 cubic feet 4.4 cubic feet 3.4 cubic feet 2.8 cubic feet
Weight 39.5 pounds 65 pounds 61.5 pounds 53 pounds
Temperature ranges Cooling – 32⁰F-35.6°F Cooling – 30⁰F-40°F At ambient temperature

 

Cooling and Freezing –

-13⁰F – 50⁰F

(-13⁰F-5⁰F for

freezing temperatures)

Cooling – 30-40ºF below room temperature

 

 

Connectivity It has an AC adapter It has an AC connectivity option Has an AC connectivity option It has an AC adapter
Color(s) Black, White, Stainless Steel Black, White, Red, Stainless Steel, Silver, and Spotless Steel White Mint, White, City Blue, Red
Removable shelves 3 3 2 2

 

 

What Users Are Saying About The Midea 3.3-Cubic Foot Compact Refrigerator

The Midea 3.3-Cubic Foot Compact Refrigerator has generated a lot of positive reviews from users. Users have enjoyed this refrigerator mostly because of its size and the large space it has to offer. A user claimed even the freezer, despite its size, can take up to 3 small alcohol bottles.

Another feature that has seen the approval of all users is its noiseless function. People have placed it in nurseries and bedrooms and never had to worry about loud sounds coming from the refrigerator or its compressor.

The removable shelves which are also adjustable have contributed to the capacity of the fridge as be beverages can be placed on their side and arranged atop each other.

In addition to these features enjoyed by users, the cooling time of this refrigerator is very impressive. In a very short while, the Midea 3.3-Cubic Foot Compact Refrigerator gets as cold as you want it. Users have reported that the area under the freezer compartment gets colder and sometimes freezes cans placed directly underneath.

Despite these great reviews, a number of people have encountered little problems with the fridge. During packaging and transportation, some of them become dented. Although they don’t usually affect its function, in extreme cases these dents may disfigure the refrigerator and may have to be returned.

A few users are also a bit skeptical about the durability of this refrigerator, but many others have used it for long periods without complaints.

Generally, users have enjoyed the Midea 3.3-Cubic Foot Compact Refrigerator as it fits perfectly in small spaces, makes no noise, and has removable shelves and a well-functioning freezer compartment

Our Verdict

The Midea 3.3-Cubic Foot Compact Refrigerator works efficiently to cool beverages and other items such as fruits and vegetables, medications, breast milk, and cosmetics.

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As long as the thermostat is set to a good level, many items can be stored in this refrigerator.

We love refrigerators that do not make noise when working. People can use it in their offices, bedrooms, and wherever they want without being distracted by the sounds.

Although the refrigerator may arrive with dents, it still works fine. If the dents are too obvious, it is advisable to return it for a replacement or refund.

There’s a 1-year warranty on the product. You can also decide to purchase a warranty for 2 more years. If your refrigerator gets damaged during this period, you should contact both Amazon and Midea, or take it to a nearby Midea Store for repair.

All that being said, the Midea 3.3-Cubic Foot Compact Refrigerator is a good product and if you keep it well and clean it regularly, it could last for a really long time.

Midea WHS-121LB1 Refrigerator, 3.3 Cubic Feet, Black

Midea 3.3-Cubic Foot Compact Refrigerator [Detailed Review] – Related FAQs

Can The Midea 3.3-Cubic Foot Compact Refrigerator Be Used Outdoors?

The Midea 3.3-Cubic Foot Compact Refrigerator cannot be used outdoors.

The unit is designed to be used indoors. It can be used in the house, an office, a dorm room, but not for outdoor activities like picnics.

Installing this unit in your office prevents you from going out all the time to grab a drink or snack.

Besides, if you’re a student in college, this unit will work for you and it doesn’t even take up much space.

Whichever way you want to use it, avoid using it for outdoor activities.

Can The Freezer In The Midea 3.3-Cubic Foot Compact Refrigerator Be Removed?

The Midea 3.3-Cubic Foot Compact Refrigerator has a freezer compartment in the refrigerator space. And the freezer is an essential part of this unit.

The freezer compartment has tubes inside its walls. It’s in these walls that refrigerant or freon is circulated through compression, condensation, and evaporation in a vacuum tube to move the heat outside the unit.

That said, removing the freezer would mean removing this vacuum tube. Meanwhile, it is dangerous to remove the vacuum tube because it’s filled with chemicals. 

Hence, the freezer in the Midea 3.3-Cubic Foot Compact Refrigerator cannot be removed.

Does The Midea 3.3-Cubic Foot Compact Refrigerator Self-Defrost?

The Midea 3.3-Cubic Foot Compact Refrigerator may form frost as a result of very low temperatures. And when it does, you’ll need to defrost it.

The Midea 3.3-Cubic Foot Compact Refrigerator does not self-defrost. 

You’ll need to defrost it manually and periodically – probably every month.

Most times, the frost forms in the freezer compartment. One precaution we’ll recommend regarding this is setting your freezer between the medium and maximum temperature setting. 

Defrosting keeps the refrigerator in good working condition.

Can The Midea 3.3-Cubic Foot Compact Refrigerator Be Kept On A Carpeted Floor?

The Midea 3.3-Cubic Foot Compact Refrigerator can be kept on a carpeted floor.

This unit is designed to be installed on a flat surface and plugged into a grounded electrical outlet.

No harm will come to it if it is kept on a carpeted floor. The vent of the unit is at the back so there is no risk of overheating.

One thing you might want to look out for is the water drips you’ll have on the carpet during manual defrost. However, after the defrost, you can just clean up the water drips with paper towels.

Otherwise, before installing the unit on the floor, place something underneath to protect the carpet. 

Is The Midea 3.3-Cubic Foot Compact Refrigerator Door Reversible?

The Midea 3.3-Cubic Foot Compact Refrigerator Door is reversible.

The door has reversible hinges, this means that you can mount the door to enable it to open from either the left or right direction. This will benefit you greatly if the space and location for the unit are restricted.

Not only is the door reversible, but it also has an arrangement of shelves behind it. On these shelves, you can load items that do not fit into the main refrigerator.

Finally, leave about 1 inch of clearance around the refrigerator so reversing the doors won’t cause any problems.

Does The Midea 3.3-Cubic Foot Compact Refrigerator Give Light When Opened? 

The Midea 3.3-Cubic Foot Compact Refrigerator does not give light when opened.

However, it has a couple of other decent features.

  1. The unit is bell-shaped and it has a flat back design. What does this mean for you? You’ll be able to fit it into smaller spaces like beneath counters.
  2. The unit has removable and adjustable wire shelves. Since the shelves are adjustable, you can organize them in different ways. Moreover, removable shelves make it easier for you to clean them.
  3. The unit has a thermostat for effective temperature control.

 

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