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Discover if the Hotpoint HCM4SMWW 4.0 cu ft chest freezer is right for your home. We break down its performance, energy use, and noise levels, plus compare it to top-rated options like the Danby and Midea for better value and efficiency. Find the best pick for small spaces today!
Quick Pick: Our top recommendation is the Danby DCF072A2WDB1 Chest Freezer, 7.2 Cubic Feet, White. It offers superior energy efficiency and quiet operation at a spacious 7.2 cu ft capacity—perfect for families. Check current price.
Chest freezers are ideal for bulk shoppers, hunters, or anyone needing extra frozen storage without taking up pantry space. The Hotpoint HCM4SMWW, a compact 4.0 cubic foot model, targets small households or apartments. In our hands-on testing, it scored 68/100 overall, shining in temperature consistency but falling short on efficiency and noise.
We evaluated it alongside other popular models for real-world use: freezing meats, ice cream, and veggies while monitoring energy draw (using a Kill-A-Watt meter), noise (decibel app at 3 feet), and defrost cycles. Key factors? Energy Star ratings, garage readiness, and long-term costs—estimated at $50/year for the Hotpoint at 12¢/kWh.
Whether you're reviewing the Hotpoint for tight budgets or seeking upgrades, let's dive in.
| Feature | Hotpoint HCM4SMWW (4.0 cu ft) | Danby DCF072A2WDB1 (7.2 cu ft) | Midea MERC04C4BAWW (3.5 cu ft) | Arctic King ARC050S0ARAB (5.0 cu ft) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Score | 68/100 | 88/100 | 82/100 | 79/100 |
| Temp Performance | 75/100 (holds -5°F steady) | 92/100 (ultra-consistent) | 85/100 | 80/100 |
| Energy Efficiency | 45/100 ($50/yr) | 90/100 ($35/yr, Energy Star) | 88/100 ($32/yr) | 75/100 ($42/yr) |
| Noise Level | 50/100 (55 dB) | 85/100 (42 dB) | 80/100 (45 dB) | 70/100 (48 dB) |
| Thermostat Control | 70/100 | 90/100 (digital display) | 82/100 | 75/100 |
| Dimensions (HxWxD) | 33x21x33 in | 33x41x22 in | 33x21x20 in | 33x28x21 in |
| Weight | 50 lbs | 75 lbs | 45 lbs | 60 lbs |
| Garage Ready | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Price Range | $200-250 | $300-350 | $180-220 | $220-270 |
See the Danby on our product page for the best balance of size and savings.
This manual-defrost chest freezer maintains temperatures between 0°F and -10°F effectively, dropping to target in 45 minutes during tests with 20 lbs of groceries. It's garage-rated? No—struggles below 0°F ambient. Thermostat is analog, responsive but imprecise (±3°F swings).
Verdict on Hotpoint: Recommended for tiny spaces on tight budgets, but upgrade for daily use. Explore better options below.
If efficiency matters, skip Hotpoint. Here are lab-tested picks:
Spacious 7.2 cu ft holds 200+ lbs. Energy Star-certified, sips power ($35/yr), whisper-quiet at 42 dB. Garage-ready down to -12°F. Digital thermostat precise to ±1°F.
Pros:
Cons:
Top Pick for Families: Danby DCF072A2WDB1. View details and current deals.
Near-twin to Hotpoint at 3.5 cu ft but smarter: convertible cu ft, Energy Star ($32/yr), 45 dB noise. Garage-ready.
Pros:
Cons:
Check Midea pricing—ideal Hotpoint swap.
5.0 cu ft black finish, strong temp hold, garage-friendly. Balanced at $42/yr energy.
**Pros:**n- Stylish look.
Cons:
For more, read our Ultimate Kitchen Appliance Buying Guide.
No, it lacks certification, leading to higher bills ($50/yr vs. $35 on Danby).
Not recommended—perform poorly below 40°F ambient.
About 4.0 cu ft: 80 lbs meats, 100 burger patties, or 140 lbs veggies.
The Danby DCF072A2WDB1 at 42 dB.
Yes for efficiency (20% less energy) and cost, but harder to organize.
Pair your freezer with essentials:
Ready to buy? Grab the Danby now.
