Smeg FAB5RBL6 40cm Retro Free Standing Refrigerator in Black Right Hand Hinge Review, Prices & Score
Compare current retailer offers alongside a detailed BestBuysUK product review and Score.
Where to buy the Smeg FAB5RBL6 fridge
🏆 Review & price summary
This freestanding Smeg refrigerator combines a distinctive black retro design with a compact 34-litre capacity. Its adjustable glass shelving, bottle storage, icebox, LED lighting and automatic defrosting make it practical for drinks, snacks and everyday essentials where space is limited. Quiet operation also suits bedrooms, offices and guest areas.
✓ Key strengths
- ✓ Distinctive retro styling with a glossy black finish
- ✓ Compact design with useful shelving and bottle storage
- ✓ Quiet 36 dB operation is suitable for bedrooms and offices
- ✓ Automatic defrosting reduces routine maintenance
Key Specifications
- Width
- 40cm
- Colour
- Glossy black
- Capacity
- 34 litres
- Defrosting
- Automatic defrost
- Noise level
- 36 dB
- Refrigerant
- R600a
- Energy class
- C
- Climate class
- SN-T
- Appliance type
- Freestanding refrigerator
- Hinge position
- Right-hand hinge
- Storage features
- Adjustable glass shelves, door shelf and bottle shelf with wire support
- Interior lighting
- LED
- Additional compartment
- Icebox
- Manufacturer product code
- FAB5RBL6
- Suitable ambient temperature
- 10 °C to 43 °C
- Required hinged-side clearance
- 175mm
Who Should Buy It?
- ✓ A good fit for small kitchens, offices, bedrooms, guest rooms and hotel-style accommodation.
- ✓ Suitable for buyers who mainly need convenient storage for drinks, snacks and everyday extras.
- ✓ Appeals to shoppers prioritising distinctive design alongside compact cooling.
- ✓ The right-hand hinge should suit installations where the door can open fully with the required side clearance.
Fridges to compare with the Smeg FAB5RBL6 fridge
These alternatives are selected from our current ranked fridges, prioritising shared verified comparison traits and comparable BestBuysUK Scores.
| Model | BestBuysUK Score | Profile | |
|---|---|---|---|
Smeg FAB10HRCR6 50’s Style Freestanding 55cm Fridge in Cream
|
78/100 | Compact · Quiet · Freestanding | Compare review → |
Smeg FAB5RRD6 40cm Retro Freestanding Refrigerator in Red
|
80/100 | Compact · Quiet · Energy Efficient | Compare review → |
Compact storage and everyday usability
The 34-litre interior is designed for drinks, snacks and supplementary cooling rather than a full weekly shop. Adjustable glass shelving, a door shelf and a supported bottle shelf help make the most of the limited space.
An LED interior light should make it easier to locate items, while the integrated icebox adds a useful extra compartment within the compact format.
Quiet, low-maintenance cooling
Automatic defrosting reduces the need for routine manual defrosting in the refrigerator compartment. The stated 36 dB operating level is comparatively unobtrusive for living and working spaces such as bedrooms or offices.
The energy class C rating and R600a refrigerant are notable efficiency-related features. The SN-T climate class indicates suitability across the stated ambient temperature range, although installation must allow the door to open correctly.
Design and installation considerations
The glossy black finish and 50s-inspired styling give this refrigerator a stronger decorative presence than a typical compact appliance. It can work well where appearance matters as much as basic cooling.
The right-hand hinge and required 175mm clearance on the hinged side are important planning points. Buyers should check the available space before installation, particularly when positioning the appliance next to a wall or kitchen unit.
Research note: this BestBuysUK assessment is based on the manufacturer's published specifications and other reputable technical sources. Specifications and retailer availability can change, so verify critical details before purchase.

Smeg FAB10HRCR6 50’s Style Freestanding 55cm Fridge in Cream
Smeg FAB5RRD6 40cm Retro Freestanding Refrigerator in Red