Selecting the best 17 cubic foot freezer means securing reliable, spacious food preservation that caters to families and serious home cooks. These appliances ensure your food stays perfectly frozen, minimizing spoilage and maximizing convenience. However, not all models perform equally, and a subpar choice can lead to inefficient cooling, increased energy bills, or insufficient storage capacity, ultimately wasting your investment.
Factors like frost-free technology, temperature control precision, and build quality significantly impact user satisfaction and long-term performance. To help you navigate the options, we’ve identified the top 17 cubic foot freezer units that excel in durability, efficiency, and user-friendly features, ensuring you find the ideal match for your household needs.
For those seeking the best 17 cubic foot freezer, the BLACK+DECKER 17 Cu. Ft. Convertible Freezer Refrigerator stands out due to its versatile upright design, offering seamless conversion between freezer and refrigerator modes for adaptable storage needs.
This model provides ample space, suitable for both immediate use and bulk storage, functioning efficiently as a primary or secondary appliance.
Best 17 Cubic Foot Freezers At a Glance
| Image | Product | Buy |
|---|---|---|
Best Pick 1  | BLACK+DECKER 17 Cu. Ft. Convertible Freezer Refrigerator, Upright Freezer with Best for: Versatile conversion | Check Price |
Best Pick 2  | Hamilton Beach 17 cu ft Chest Deep Freezer – White, Best for: Bulk storage | Check Price |
Best Pick 3  | BLACK+DECKER 18.1 Cu. Ft. Top Mount Refrigerator with Freezer, 2 Best for: Fridge/freezer combo | Check Price |
Best Pick 4  | Kismile 7.0 Cubic Feet Chest Freezer with 3 Removable Basket, Best for: Compact chilling | Check Price |
Best Pick 5  | Midea MERC07C4BAWW Chest Freezer, 7.0 Cubic Feet Freezer With Removable Best for: Organized freezing | Check Price |
How We Picked
To identify the best 17 cubic foot freezer, we rigorously evaluated models based on critical buyer concerns: build quality, real-world performance, safety, durability, and standout features. We prioritized upright and chest freezers specifically offering around 17 cubic feet of capacity, immediately ruling out smaller units like the Kismile and Midea 7.0 cu. ft.
models. Products such as the BLACK+DECKER 17 Cu.
Ft. Convertible Freezer Refrigerator and Kenmore 17.0 Cu. Ft.
Convertible Refrigerator/Freezer impressed with their adaptable storage. The Hamilton Beach 17 cu ft Chest Deep Freezer’s garage-ready designation and removable basket also garnered attention for practical appeal and lasting value.
What Most Buyers Get Wrong
Convertible Functionality: Freezer or Fridge?
When browsing 17 cubic foot freezers, consider if you need a dedicated freezer or a convertible unit. Some models, like the BLACK+DECKER 17 Cu. Ft.
Convertible Freezer Refrigerator and the Kenmore 17.0 Cubic Feet Capacity Upright freezer, can switch between freezer and refrigerator modes. This flexibility is ideal for shifting needs, such as during holidays when you might need more refrigerator space for entertaining or additional freezer room for bulk buys.
Upright vs. Chest: Which Fits Your Space?
Deciding between an upright and a chest freezer of around 17 cubic feet involves more than just aesthetics. Upright models, like the Kenmore 17.0 Cubic Feet Capacity Upright freezer, offer better organization with shelves and drawers, making items easier to find. Chest freezers, such as the Hamilton Beach 17 cu ft Chest Deep Freezer, typically provide more raw storage volume and can be more energy-efficient, but require bending and digging for items at the bottom.
Consider your physical accessibility and organizational preferences.
1. BLACK+DECKER 17 Cu. Ft. Convertible Freezer Refrigerator, Upright Freezer with
Best for: Versatile family freezer with adaptable storage.
This 17 cu. ft. BLACK+DECKER upright freezer offers a convertible design, seamlessly switching between freezer and refrigerator modes to accommodate evolving food storage needs. Its spacious capacity is perfect for families aiming to maximize their frozen food reserves.
With a substantial 17 cu. ft. capacity, this garage-ready unit easily holds bulk meats and numerous frozen meals. It features 4 shelves for organized storage and uses an electronic control system for simple temperature management, ensuring your food stays perfectly preserved.
Pros
- Convertible to refrigerator mode for flexibility
- Ample 17 cu. ft. capacity for large households
- Includes 4 shelves for efficient organization
- Electronic LED control panel for easy adjustments
Cons
- Door orientation is fixed to right, limiting placement options.
Ideal for families needing adaptable extra storage, this freezer provides a flexible solution for both frozen goods and overflow refrigerator items.
2. Hamilton Beach 17 cu ft Chest Deep Freezer – White,
Best for: Garage-ready chest freezer with convenient basket.
The Hamilton Beach 17 cu. ft. chest freezer is engineered for garage readiness, boasting a large capacity to store your entire stock of favorite recipes and groceries. Its top-opening door allows for easy access to contents.
This model provides a full 17 cu. ft. of deep freezing space, capable of holding a significant amount of food. It includes one removable, vinyl-coated wire basket, simplifying the retrieval of items and keeping your frozen goods organized within the expansive chest.
Pros
- Large 17 cu. ft. capacity for bulk storage
- Includes a removable wire basket for organization
- Garage-ready for non-climate controlled environments
- Adjustable thermostat offers precise temperature control
Cons
- Only one shelf/basket is included, potentially limiting organization for very diverse contents.
Perfect for homeowners looking for substantial, reliable freezer space in their garage, this chest freezer makes keeping large quantities of food frozen simple.
3. BLACK+DECKER 18.1 Cu. Ft. Top Mount Refrigerator with Freezer, 2
Best for: Frost-free top-mount refrigerator with ample freezer space.
This 18.1 cu. ft. BLACK+DECKER refrigerator features a frost-free, auto-defrost system, eliminating manual defrosting and ensuring your frozen items remain accessible. Its top freezer configuration is ideal for kitchens needing a full-size appliance.
Offering 18.1 cu. ft. of total capacity, this unit provides ample room with 3 glass shelves in the refrigerator section and a dedicated top freezer. The reversible doors and adjustable temperature control allow for customized setup and optimal cooling for both compartments.
Pros
- Frost-free auto-defrost for hassle-free maintenance
- Generous 18.1 cu. ft. total capacity
- Multiple (3) glass shelves for organized storage
- Adjustable temperature control for precise cooling
Cons
- Does not feature a convertible freezer-to-refrigerator option.
This frost-free refrigerator is well-suited for families needing a larger appliance with a convenient top freezer compartment for everyday food storage.
4. Kismile 7.0 Cubic Feet Chest Freezer with 3 Removable Basket,
Best for: Compact chest freezer with organized baskets.
The Kismile 7.0 cu. ft. chest freezer provides a compact yet spacious solution for keeping food cold, featuring 3 removable baskets for excellent organization. Its 7-grade temperature control allows precise setting from cold to coldest.
Measuring 22.04″(W) × 32.20″(D) × 33.66″(H), this 7.0 cu. ft. freezer is perfect for dorms or kitchens. The temperature range extends from 6.8°F down to -7.6°F, ensuring food preservation, with a dedicated ‘0’ setting to stop cooling.
Pros
- Includes 3 removable baskets for organized storage
- Precise 7-grade temperature control
- Compact dimensions suitable for smaller spaces
- Low temperature range down to -7.6°F
Cons
- Capacity is only 7.0 cu. ft., significantly smaller than the 17 cu. ft. target.
For individuals or small households needing compact, well-organized frozen storage, this Kismile chest freezer offers effective cooling and easy access.
5. Midea MERC07C4BAWW Chest Freezer, 7.0 Cubic Feet Freezer With Removable
Best for: Convertible garage-ready chest freezer.
Midea’s 7.0 Cu. Ft. Chest Freezer offers convertible functionality, easily switching between freezer and fridge modes to meet diverse food storage needs. It’s designed and tested for efficient operation in non-climate-controlled garage environments.
This chest freezer provides 7.0 cu. ft. of ample storage, suitable for families of 4 or more, or as a second freezer in a garage or basement. Its garage-ready design handles temperatures from 38°F to 110°F (fridge mode) and 0°F to 110°F (freezer mode).
Pros
- Easily converts between freezer and refrigerator modes
- Garage-ready for challenging temperature conditions
- Power outage protection keeps items frozen longer
- Suitable for families or as a secondary freezer
Cons
- Capacity is only 7.0 cu. ft., much smaller than the 17 cu. ft. ideal.
This Midea chest freezer is an excellent choice for those needing flexible storage that can adapt to either frozen or refrigerated needs, especially in unconditioned spaces.
6. BLACK+DECKER 16.2 Cu. Ft. Chest Freezer, Deep Freezer with Top
Best for: Deep chest freezer with removable baskets.
The BLACK+DECKER 16.2 Cu. Ft. Chest Freezer provides substantial deep freezer storage, perfect for holding a large amount of frozen foods, from meats to ice cream. Its chest design offers easy access for stocking and retrieval.
With a generous 16.2 cu. ft. capacity, this freezer is ideal for added cold storage in kitchens, basements, or garages. It includes 2 removable storage baskets, aiding in the organization of your frozen items and making frequently accessed foods easier to grab.
Pros
- Large 16.2 cu. ft. deep freezer capacity
- Includes 2 removable baskets for organization
- Suitable for home or garage storage
- Operates with a 95-watt wattage for efficiency
Cons
- Chest freezer design requires bending for access to lower items.
This BLACK+DECKER chest freezer is a robust option for households requiring significant extra freezing capacity, especially for bulk purchases or extended storage.
7. Kenmore 17.0 Cubic Feet Capacity Upright freezer – Convertible Refrigerator/Freezer,
Best for: Convertible upright freezer with digital controls.
The Kenmore 17.0 Cubic Feet Capacity Upright freezer offers a highly versatile convertible refrigerator/freezer function, managed through a digital control panel with an LED display. This flexibility allows for on-demand temperature adjustments.
This large 17 cu. ft. unit features 4 removable/repositionable shelves and 4 door compartments, maximizing organizational potential. Its convertible nature supports storing bulk groceries, prepping for parties, or managing seasonal produce efficiently.
Pros
- Convertible freezer/refrigerator functionality
- 17 cu. ft. capacity accommodates large storage needs
- Features 4 shelves and 4 door compartments
- Digital control panel with LED display for easy management
Cons
- Higher wattage (299 watts) compared to some freezer-only models.
For individuals needing both freezer and refrigerator overflow, this Kenmore upright is ideal, offering flexible capacity and user-friendly digital controls.
8. FRIGIDAIRE EFRF7003-BLACK Chest Deep Freezer, 7 Cu. Ft, Black Adjustable
Best for: Compact chest freezer with multiple temperature settings.
FRIGIDAIRE’s 7 Cu. Ft. Chest Deep Freezer in black offers ample storage for meal-prepped items and frozen foods, featuring a 7-setting adjustable thermostat for personalized temperature control. Its top-opening door provides direct access.
This 7.0 cu. ft. freezer is perfect for large families or those who appreciate extensive meal prep, capable of storing appetizers, treats, and meats. It comes equipped with a removable vinyl-coated basket for effortless organization within its compact footprint.
Pros
- Sufficient 7.0 cu. ft. capacity for meal prep
- Adjustable thermostat with seven settings
- Includes a removable basket for organization
- Black finish offers a sleek look
Cons
- Capacity is significantly less than ideal 17 cu. ft. size and is a chest freezer.
This FRIGIDAIRE chest freezer is a concise yet effective solution for storing prepped meals and frozen goods, offering adjustable temperature and organized access.
9. Antarctic Star 7.0 Cu.ft Chest Freezer, 6.8°F to -4°F Deep
Best for: Deep chest freezer with precise temperature control.
The Antarctic Star 7.0 Cu.ft Chest Freezer allows precise temperature control ranging from 6.8°F down to -4°F, ensuring optimal preservation of frozen goods. Power and run indicator lights ensure the unit is functioning correctly.
This compact 7.0 cubic feet freestanding chest freezer measures 36.89”(W)×22.05”(D)×32.6“(H), offering ample capacity for its size. The 7-grade temperature adjustment system lets users select the perfect setting, with level ‘0’ indicating the cooling is turned off.
Pros
- Precise 7-grade temperature control
- Low temperatures down to -4°F for deep freezing
- Indicator lights for clear operational status
- Compact dimensions fit easily in garages or kitchens
Cons
- Capacity of 7.0 cu. ft. is far below the 17 cu. ft. requirement and it’s a chest freezer.
For users needing precise temperature management in a more compact, chest-style freezer, this Antarctic Star model delivers reliable cold storage solutions.
10. GE Appliances 17.7 cu. ft. Bottom Freezer Refrigerator in Fingerprint
Best for: Counter-depth refrigerator with hidden freezer.
GE Appliances’ 17.7 cu. ft. Bottom Freezer Refrigerator offers a counter-depth design that integrates seamlessly with cabinetry for a flush, built-in appearance. Recessed handles contribute to its sleek and versatile aesthetic.
This refrigerator boasts a generous 17.7 cu. ft. capacity, with the freezer located at the bottom for easy access to refrigerated items. It features 3 shelves, 7 door shelves, and a frost-free defrost system for efficient, hassle-free operation.
Pros
- Counter-depth design for a built-in look
- Convenient bottom freezer configuration
- Fingerprint-resistant finish for easy cleaning
- Frost-free defrost system for convenience
Cons
- This is a refrigerator with a bottom freezer, not a dedicated standalone freezer.
Homeowners seeking a stylish, integrated kitchen solution will appreciate this GE Appliances refrigerator for its counter-depth design and ample storage capacity.
Upright vs. Chest: The Real Freezer Divide
When evaluating a best 17 cubic foot freezer, the primary purchase driver isn’t capacity alone but the fundamental architectural choice: upright or chest. This dichotomy dictates not just how you access your frozen goods, but how you manage inevitable frost build-up and the overall efficiency of your cold storage.
The BLACK+DECKER 17 Cu. Ft. Convertible Freezer Refrigerator and the Kenmore 17.0 Cubic Feet Capacity Upright freezer represent the upright configuration.
Their advantage lies in accessibility – shelves, and sometimes door bins like those on the Kenmore, put everything at eye level. This is a significant boon for busy households where digging through a deep chest is a daily chore.
However, the upright design inherently makes frost management more challenging. As internal air escapes and external humid air enters during door openings, condensation freezes on internal surfaces, demanding more frequent manual defrosting for the BLACK+DECKER model to maintain optimal performance.
In contrast, chest freezers like the Hamilton Beach 17 cu ft Chest Deep Freezer or the BLACK+DECKER 16.2 Cu. Ft. Chest Freezer leverage gravity for superior frost containment.
The denser, cold air sinks, naturally insulating the frozen contents and limiting the ingress of warmer, moist air. This means less frequent defrosting and, generally, more stable internal temperatures, making them inherently more energy-efficient over time.
While the removable basket in the Hamilton Beach model offers some organizational benefit, the primary drawback remains: retrieving items from the bottom requires stooping and rummaging, a trade-off for the reduced maintenance.
The Kismile 7.0 Cubic Feet Chest Freezer and similar smaller-capacity units, while useful for specific needs, do not offer the volume implied by the best 17 cubic foot freezer designation, and it’s crucial to distinguish them from their larger, more substantial counterparts. Ultimately, the decision hinges on your tolerance for defrosting versus your willingness to dig. For those prioritizing minimal maintenance and consistent cooling efficiency, a chest model such as the BLACK+DECKER 16.2 Cu.
Ft. Chest Freezer is the more pragmatic choice.
What to Look For in a Best 17 Cubic Foot Freezer
Freezer type and configuration
Choosing between an upright and a chest freezer hinges on how you plan to access and organize your frozen goods. Upright freezers, like the Kenmore 17.0 Cubic Feet Capacity Upright freezer, offer a refrigerator-like experience with a door that swings open, providing easy reach to internal shelves and door compartments. This configuration also allows for adjustable shelving, enabling you to customize storage space for larger items.
Counter-depth models, such as the GE Appliances 17.7 cu. ft.
Bottom Freezer Refrigerator, further enhance kitchen aesthetics by fitting seamlessly with cabinetry. Conversely, chest freezers, such as the Hamilton Beach 17 cu ft Chest Deep Freezer or the BLACK+DECKER 16.2 Cu. Ft.
Chest Freezer, typically provide more raw storage volume for their footprint and often include removable baskets, like the one featured in the Kismile 7.0 Cubic Feet Chest Freezer, to help keep smaller items organized at the bottom. While they require bending to access items, their large, open interior can accommodate bulky items efficiently.
Consider your typical frozen food purchases and how frequently you’ll need to retrieve items when deciding which design best suits your needs.
Temperature control and monitoring
Maintaining consistent and accurate freezing temperatures is crucial for preserving food quality and preventing spoilage, especially in a larger capacity unit like a 17 cubic foot freezer. Many models, such as the Kenmore 17.0 Cubic Feet Capacity Upright freezer, feature digital temperature displays that offer a clear, at-a-glance view of the internal temperature, allowing for precise adjustments. For rapid chilling of new additions or to quickly freeze items, look for a ‘quick freeze’ function, a feature often found in chest freezers that temporarily lowers the temperature to its lowest setting.
Furthermore, the peace of mind knowing your food is protected is enhanced by temperature alarms. These alerts, sometimes integrated into models like the BLACK+DECKER 17 Cu.
Ft. Convertible Freezer Refrigerator, notify you if the temperature rises above a safe level, preventing potential food loss. When selecting a 17 cubic foot freezer, prioritizing robust temperature control and monitoring features ensures your stored items remain at optimal freezing conditions, from the spacious interior of an upright to the bulk storage of a chest model.
Energy efficiency and noise levels
A 17 cubic foot freezer is a significant appliance, and its energy efficiency and noise levels can substantially impact your home environment and utility bills. Look for models that display ENERGY STAR certification, indicating they meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
For instance, while not explicitly ENERGY STAR certified in the details provided, the BLACK+DECKER 17 Cu. Ft.
Convertible Freezer Refrigerator offers versatility, and energy efficiency is always a key consideration for such large units. Noise levels are typically measured in decibels (dB); a quieter freezer will have a lower dB rating, which is particularly important if the unit will be in or near living spaces. While specific dB ratings aren’t listed for the Hamilton Beach 17 cu ft Chest Deep Freezer or the Kenmore 17.0 Cubic Feet Capacity Upright freezer, paying attention to this metric can ensure a more peaceful home.
Additionally, decide between manual or automatic defrost. Manual defrost models, like the BLACK+DECKER 16.2 Cu.
Ft. Chest Freezer, tend to be more energy-efficient as they don’t use energy to cycle the defrost components, though they require user intervention to remove ice buildup. Automatic defrost units offer convenience but may consume slightly more energy.
Storage features and accessibility
Efficient organization within your 17 cubic foot freezer hinges on thoughtful storage features. Look for models with adjustable shelving, such as the 4 removable, repositionable shelves found in the Kenmore 17.0 Cu. Ft.
Convertible Refrigerator/Freezer, allowing you to customize space for bulky items or smaller packages. Internal lighting, like that often included in upright freezers, is crucial for visibility, ensuring you can easily locate what you need without prolonged door-opening.
Consider door-in-door access options if available; while not a common feature on chest freezers like the Hamilton Beach 17 cu ft Chest Deep Freezer, some upright models might offer it for quicker access to frequently used items, minimizing cold air loss. The BLACK+DECKER 17 Cu. Ft.
Convertible Freezer Refrigerator, for instance, offers versatile interior configurations that can be adapted as your storage needs evolve.
Quick Best 17 Cubic Foot Freezer Buying Checklist
- Capacity Check Ensure 17 cubic feet meets your storage needs for bulk items.
- Type Selection Decide between an upright for easy access or a chest for maximum space efficiency.
- Energy Star Rating Prioritize models with this label for lower electricity bills.
- Defrost Type Consider manual defrost for simpler operation or frost-free for convenience.
- Temperature Controls Look for digital displays and quick-freeze options for optimal food preservation.
- Noise Level Check decibel ratings if the freezer will be in a living area.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Key Differences Between Upright And Chest Freezers In A 17 Cubic Foot Size?
Upright freezers, often more feature-rich, offer easier organization with shelves and drawers for quick access to food items. Chest freezers provide more raw storage volume and are generally more energy-efficient for their size, ideal for large, bulky items without frequent access.
How Important Is The Temperature Control System On A 17 Cubic Foot Freezer?
Precise temperature control is crucial for maintaining food safety and quality in a 17 cubic foot freezer. Features like digital thermostats and quick-freeze functions help rapidly lower temperatures after loading groceries, ensuring items freeze quickly and evenly.
What Makes A 17 Cubic Foot Freezer Energy Efficient?
Energy efficiency in a 17 cubic foot freezer is often indicated by an ENERGY STAR certification, signifying it uses less electricity than standard models. Good insulation, efficient compressors, and automatic defrost systems also contribute to reduced energy consumption.
Should I Be Concerned About The Noise Level Of A 17 Cubic Foot Freezer?
Noise levels can be a factor, especially if the 17 cubic foot freezer is located near living spaces. Look for models with lower decibel (dB) ratings, which indicate quieter operation. Some units are specifically designed for minimal sound output.
What Are The Benefits Of A Frost-Free Feature On A 17 Cubic Foot Freezer?
A frost-free feature on a 17 cubic foot freezer automatically manages and removes frost buildup from the interior. This eliminates the need for manual defrosting, saving time and effort, and helps maintain consistent freezing temperatures for better food preservation.
Final Words
Investing in the best 17 cubic foot freezer provides substantial value for households needing extra, reliable frozen storage. These models offer the perfect blend of capacity, efficiency, and advanced features to keep food fresh for longer. Upgrade your kitchen’s capabilities and embrace the convenience of ample frozen goods today.