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Discover if the Frigidaire FFFC05M1TW 5 cu ft chest freezer delivers reliable frozen storage for small spaces. We break down its performance, energy use, features, and compare it to top alternatives like the Arctic King for the best value in compact freezers.
Quick Pick: Best 5 Cu Ft Chest Freezer
The Arctic King ARC050S0ARAB 5cf Deep Chest Freezer edges out the competition with superior energy efficiency and sturdy build—ideal for apartments or garages. Check current price.
In today's busy households, extra frozen storage can make all the difference, especially for small families, apartment dwellers, or anyone stocking up on bulk groceries. The Frigidaire FFFC05M1TW stands out as a 5.0 cubic foot chest freezer designed for tight spaces, measuring just 28.7 inches wide, 20.6 inches deep, and 33.5 inches high. Weighing around 54 pounds empty, it's easy to maneuver into a basement, garage, or kitchen corner.
Priced around $250, this white model promises consistent cooling for meats, veggies, and ice cream without breaking the bank. But does it live up to the hype? Our hands-on testing evaluated temperature control, energy draw, build quality, and user-friendly features. With an overall performance score of 71/100, it's a solid mid-tier option—but not without quirks. Keep reading for the full scoop, including how it stacks up against rivals.
We pitted the Frigidaire against other popular compact chest freezers to highlight key differences in capacity, efficiency, and cost. Here's the data-driven breakdown:
| Model | Capacity | Annual Energy Use (kWh) | Est. Yearly Cost* | Dimensions (W x D x H) | Price Range | Our Score | Review Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Frigidaire FFFC05M1TW | 5.0 cu ft | 240 | $40 | 28.7" x 20.6" x 33.5" | $240-$260 | 71/100 | - |
| Arctic King ARC050S0ARAB | 5.0 cu ft | 220 | $37 | 27.9" x 20.5" x 33.5" | $270-$300 | 85/100 | Full Review |
| Midea MERC04C4BAWW | 3.5 cu ft | 180 | $30 | 26.1" x 20.7" x 33.5" | $200-$230 | 78/100 | Full Review |
| Danby DCF072A2WDB1 | 7.2 cu ft | 290 | $48 | 39.9" x 22.2" x 33.1" | $300-$350 | 82/100 | Full Review |
*Based on 12¢/kWh national average. Scores from our lab tests on temp stability, uniformity, and efficiency.
The Frigidaire holds its own in temperature performance but lags in energy savings. For similar capacity, the Arctic King is our top recommendation. See latest deals on Arctic King.
This freezer shines in maintaining steady temps, scoring 80/100 for uniformity and 75/100 for stability during our 24-hour tests. Loaded with 20 pounds of mixed foods (from frozen pizzas to ice packs), it kept the center at -0.5°F and edges at 1.2°F—well within safe freezer range (0°F or below). No major hot spots, making it reliable for long-term storage.
Here's where it stumbles: 240 kWh annually translates to about $40 per year. That's 10-15% higher than class leaders like the Arctic King. If you're in a warm garage (above 90°F ambient), expect even higher draw. Tip: Keep it 2-3 inches from walls for better airflow.
Pros:
Cons:
In real-world use, it froze a full load of groceries in 4 hours and held power during a 2-hour outage simulation. Great for small households (2-4 people) needing 100-150 lbs of storage.
[Ready for more space? Check the Danby 7.2 cu ft model for growing families.]
Ideal for:
Skip if: You need frost-free operation or ultra-low energy use—opt for the Midea 3.5 cu ft instead for smaller needs.
Maintenance tips: Defrost annually with hot water towels, clean coils yearly, and organize with bins to maximize airflow. This extends life to 10+ years.
While the Frigidaire is competent, these outperform it:
[Explore all chest freezers in our Ultimate Kitchen Appliance Buying Guide.]
Pair your freezer with essentials:
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Moderately—240 kWh/year is average for its size, but pricier to run than models like the Arctic King (220 kWh). Expect $40 annually at standard rates.
About 140-160 lbs of frozen goods, perfect for 2-4 people. Use the basket for quick-access items.
Yes, every 3-6 months. It's straightforward but time-consuming compared to frost-free uprights.
Very quiet at 39 dB, quieter than a whisper—suitable for kitchens or bedrooms.
Yes, down to 0°F ambient, but energy use rises in unheated spaces. Ensure good ventilation.
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