The 7 Best Chest Freezers to Expand Your Frozen Food Storage Space

ProsThis outstanding garage-ready model made our top pick thanks to its combination of size, versatility, and practical featuresWe were pleased to see that it comes with bottom rollers—a feature many chest freezers don’t haveWe were pleased to see that it comes with bottom rollers—a feature many chest freezers don’t haveConsWe were pleased to see that it comes with bottom rollers—a feature many chest freezers don’t haveSpacious, adaptable, easy to organize, and lockable, this garage-ready, 16-cubic-foot Whirlpool chest freezer is a standout choice for large households who need serious storage with smart organization. Its three-level storage system—with modular baskets that slide and reposition—makes it easy to keep bulk groceries accessible and neatly arranged. A raised shelf and divider provide dedicated space for frequently used items, while the counterbalanced lid stays open so you can use both hands. Additionally, bright interior LED lighting ensures nothing gets lost in the shuffle.Versatility is another strength. This counter-height model not only functions as a traditional freezer, but also converts to a refrigerator when you need extra space for fresh foods. It’s also garage-ready, performing reliably in temperatures from 0 to 110 degrees F, and includes indicator lights for both power status and temperature adjustment. The last versatile feature that we like is its smooth-gliding rollers that make repositioning effortless. The only trade off: You’ll have to factor on higher energy usage than smaller models, which will add to your utility bill.Key SpecsDimensions55.25 x 36 x 28.69 in.Capacity16 cu. ft.Garage-ReadyYesEnergy Use16 cu. ft.ProsThis model punches way above its weight for its price and sizeStandout features include being able to switch from freezer to fridge mode Offers 48hr power outage protection to extend your food’s shelf lifeConsIt only comes in whiteThe Midea 3.5-cubic-foot chest freezer has earned a reputation as a reliable top pick year after year—and it’s easy to see why. Compact yet spacious, it offers enough capacity for overflow groceries without taking up too much space in a garage or basement. It also features a convertible design that switches between freezer and refrigerator modes depending on your storage needs. This chest freezer is also garage-ready, running efficiently in a wide range of temperatures. And, if the power goes out, it keeps food frozen for up to 48 hours—an impressive safeguard against spoilage. Adjustable legs help it sit level on uneven floors, while a removable basket keeps smaller items organized. The exterior control panel is another plus, letting you adjust temperatures without opening the lid and losing precious cold air. We’d just like it to come in other finishes.Key SpecsDimensions21.5 x 33.5 x 17.6 in.Capacity3.5 cu. ft.Garage-ReadyYesEnergy Use193 kWh / yearAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsSingles and apartment dwellers will love this unit’s compact sizeIt doesn’t scrimp on temperature settings, coming with 7 different optionsThere are multiple sizes if the compact one is just a little too small for you ConsIt’s only available in white and it isn’t garage-ready For households needing extra freezer space without a large footprint, this compact model strikes an excellent balance of size, efficiency, and ease of use. Despite a capacity of just two cubic feet, it provides storage for up to 70 pounds of food and is a smart, space-saving solution for a small kitchen, basement, dorm room, or office. A removable storage basket helps organize small items, while the exterior dial with seven temperature settings and indicator light lets you adjust settings without opening the unit and letting cold air escape. Its manual defrost function includes an accessible drain, too. The only downsides are that it’s not garage-ready (although at this size, you’re probably not looking to put it in a garage), and it only comes in white. However, GE makes multiple sizes of this model—up to 19.8 cubic feet—if you need more space.Key SpecsDimensions20.9 x 27.2 x 17.3 in.Capacity2.0 cu. ft.Garage-ReadyNoEnergy Use170 kWh / yearProsFor families that need a good mid-size option, this model is a solid choice with 7 adjustable tempsAvailable in black or white optionsIt’s quiet and energy efficient, using just 0.66 kWh per dayConsYou won’t be able to keep this in the garage (place it in a basement or mudroom instead) It’s heavy and doesn’t come with wheels to help move it aroundThis seven-cubic-foot chest freezer delivers reliable performance with flexible temperature control and smart, user-friendly design. The 7-grade thermostat lets you dial in temperatures from 6.8 to -7.6 degrees F for normal or deep freezing, while a green run light confirms proper operation. A balanced hinge-style door opens smoothly and stays fixed at 45, 75, or 90 degrees, and cleaning is simple thanks to the built-in water drain. Quiet and energy-efficient, it runs under 38 decibels and uses just 0.66 kWh per day. Unlike many models out there, this one is available in black or white. However, it’s not garage ready, and at 60.5 pounds, it's heavy—with no wheels to move it around. So once you choose where you want it, plan to keep it there.Key SpecsDimensions32.2 x 33.66 x 22.04 in.Capacity7.0 cu. ft.Garage-ReadyNoEnergy Use240.9 kWh / yearAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsIf you want your freezer to blend in with your kitchen, this is one of the only models with a stainless-steel-like finish Adjustable legs and a quiet compressor add to its appealAnother solid energy efficient model—using just 0.37 kWh per dayConsIt’s not garage ready, but given it shines in blending in with common stainless-steel household appliances, it doesn’t need to be This 3.5-cubic-foot chest freezer keeps the kitchen in mind. Its stainless-steel-like finish blends seamlessly with modern appliances (a rarity, since most chest freezers come only in white or black), while the compact footprint and adjustable legs let you align it neatly with countertops. It’s also impressively quiet—running below 40 decibels—and energy efficient, drawing just 0.37 kWh per day, so it works well in open-plan spaces without distracting noise or spiking your utility bill.Performance and convenience round out the package, as this unit comes with a 7-mode thermostat that offers precise control from -7.6 to -22.2 degrees F and a lid that stays open at any angle up to 90 degrees. Moreover, an indicator light confirms the unit is running, and its removable basket keeps go-to items within easy reach. Although it isn’t garage-ready, again, we feel that its stainless finish is better suited for kitchens anyways.Key SpecsDimensions22.4 x 29.3 x 18.5 in.Capacity3.5 cu. ft.Garage-ReadyNoEnergy Use135 kWh / yearProsIf you’re storing goods that require exact temperatures, this model’s intelligent digital display is way more precise than others on the market It also runs super-quiet, at just 38 dB, so you can place it in common areas, and its low energy use won’t sap your energy bill ConsIts red finish isn’t for everyoneFor those who want to program their freezer to specific degrees, Northair’s 3.5-cubic-foot red chest freezer allows for precise temperature adjustments down to -40 degrees F—a level of control most household freezers can’t match. It also offers generous storage, runs quiet (at 38 decibels), and consumes just 0.45 kWh per day, making it more energy-friendly than many competitors in its class. The lid design adds convenience, staying open between 45 and 90 degrees, which allows you to load or unload hands-free, and its two removable baskets make it easier to organize smaller items. If its red color isn’t your thing, it does come in white or black models at a lower price. Although, these options come with a standard temperature dial instead of the precise digital thermometer gauge.Key SpecsDimensions21.2 x 30.9 x 21.8 in.Capacity3.5 cu. ft.Garage-ReadyNoEnergy Use164.25 kWh / yearAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsOne of the largest models out there, this 21 cu. ft. capacity unit impressed us with its sheer size and Energy Star certification.We appreciate the lock and key for extra securityConsIt’s not garage-readyIts large footprint will take up a lot of space in your basement or utility room.If you’re looking for sheer capacity, this 21-cubic-foot chest freezer is hard to beat. It’s the largest model in our lineup and one of the only chest freezers we found with an official Energy Star rating, giving it an edge in efficiency despite its size. Perfect for big families, hunters, or anyone who buys in bulk, this model combines thoughtful storage features with robust performance.Inside, a bright LED light makes it easy to see contents. The white liner is easy to clean, and the convertible design allows it to shift between freezer and refrigerator as your needs change. Security is another plus, featuring a built-in lock and key for peace of mind. Exterior temperature controls and a high-temperature alarm add convenience and protection, while the front defrost drain simplifies maintenance. Since it’s technically not garage-ready, you’ll want to place it in your basement, utility room, or mudroom to ensure it performs at its best.Key SpecsDimensions73.2 x 33.3 x 32.9 in.Capacity21 cu. ft.Garage-ReadyNoEnergy Use346 kWh / yearArabella Bowen is a seasoned product tester who specializes in travel, design, tech, home improvement, and outdoor essentials. She’s reviewed everything from roller bags and cameras to hiking equipment and home decor for outlets such as The Montreal Gazette, Fodor's, AFAR, and US Park Pass. Arabella can often be found immersed in DIY projects at her mid-century modern house in upstate New York—a hands-on pursuit that inspires many trips to Lowe’s.