Danby 1.7 Cu. Ft. Compact Review (2026): A Spec-Based Look
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This danby compact refrigerator review focuses on the Danby 1.7 Cu. Ft. Compact Refrigerator. It is a black, counter-top all-fridge with a 1.7 cu. ft. capacity. The unit measures 20.1 inches in height and 17.7 inches in width. It weighs 42 pounds. The model number is DAR017A2BDD. It uses R600a refrigerant. The design includes an integrated door handle and reversible hinge. This guide explains how these specifications affect your daily use. We look at what the listing says about storage and cooling. We do not test the appliance. We only report the published data.
What stands out
- 1.7 cu. ft. (49 L) total capacity fits basic needs.
- Energy Star compliant with R600a refrigerant for efficiency.
- Removable wire shelves allow for tall bottle storage.
- Reversible door hinge adapts to your kitchen layout.
- Mechanical thermostat offers simple temperature control.
Who it fits
Good fit for
You should consider this unit if you need a small fridge for a dorm room or office. The 1.7 cu. ft. capacity holds essentials without taking up much space. The reversible hinge helps if your counter placement limits door swing. The tall bottle storage is useful for soda or large drinks. The mechanical thermostat is straightforward for users who prefer simple controls over digital interfaces. It suits those who want a basic, reliable cooling solution.
Who should skip it
You should look elsewhere if you need a freezer. This model is an all-fridge with no freezer compartment. You might also skip it if you prefer digital displays or electronic controls. The mechanical thermostat lacks precision settings. If you need to store frozen meals or ice, this unit will not work. The 1.7 cu. ft. space is limited for large families. Consider a larger model with dual zones if you require more versatility.
Verdict: This compact fridge offers solid basic cooling with efficient refrigerant and flexible storage. It is a practical choice for single occupants needing simple, reliable refrigeration.
Key specs for this unit
Total Capacity: 1.7 cu. ft.
This volume holds roughly 49 liters of food and drinks. It fits well on a counter or in a small kitchen. You can store several soda bottles and basic groceries. Larger families may find this size tight for daily needs. It suits singles or couples who need extra cold storage without taking up much floor space.
Height: 20.1 inches
This height allows the fridge to fit under standard counter heights. You can place it in tight spots without it sticking out too far. Measure your available space before buying. This dimension ensures it sits level with most kitchen worktops. It creates a seamless look in small apartments or dorm rooms where vertical space is limited.
Width: 17.7 inches
This width keeps the unit narrow and space-efficient. You can slide it into corners or narrow gaps easily. It does not require a wide opening to fit through doors. This dimension helps you maximize storage in compact areas. Compare this width with other models to ensure it fits your specific layout constraints.
Weight: 42 pounds
This weight makes the unit stable on your counter. It will not tip over easily during normal use. However, you may need two people to move it safely. The weight comes from the insulation and compressor. It feels solid but is not too heavy to reposition occasionally for cleaning.
Design and Build Specs
According to the listing, this Danby unit features a black finish with a scratch-resistant worktop. The integrated door handle maintains a clean look. The reversible door hinge allows you to adjust the opening direction for your space. These design choices help the refrigerator fit into tight corners or align with existing cabinetry without protruding handles getting in the way.
The exterior dimensions are 20.1 inches in height and 17.7 inches in width. It weighs 42 pounds. This weight provides stability on a counter but still allows you to move it for cleaning. The compact footprint means you can place it in an office, dorm, or small kitchen without taking up excessive floor space. The height fits under standard counter heights in most homes.
Inside, the layout includes one full-width and one one-half width removable wire shelf. This setup offers maximum storage versatility. You can adjust the shelves to accommodate tall bottles. The design includes specific tall bottle storage areas for large soda bottles. A CanStor beverage dispensing system is also listed. This internal arrangement helps you organize drinks and snacks efficiently. The mechanical thermostat lets you control the cooling level directly. You do not need digital interfaces to manage basic temperature settings.
Setup And Daily Use Guide
Setting up this Danby compact refrigerator is straightforward. You place the unit on a flat, stable surface. The reversible door hinge lets you adjust the opening direction. This feature helps you fit the fridge into tight spaces or align the handle with your kitchen layout. The integrated door handle maintains a clean look while allowing easy access. Once positioned, you plug it in. The mechanical thermostat lets you set the cooling level. You adjust this dial to match your storage needs. The automatic defrost system removes ice buildup without manual intervention. This means you do not need to unplug the unit or scrape away frost regularly. Inside, you have one full-width and one half-width removable wire shelf. These shelves provide flexible storage options. You can arrange items to fit tall bottles or standard containers. The CanStor beverage dispensing system offers a convenient way to access drinks. It keeps beverages cool and ready for serving. The scratch-resistant worktop protects the top surface from daily wear. You can place small items or appliances there without worrying about marks. The unit uses R600a refrigerant, which is environmentally friendly. It is Energy Star compliant, indicating efficient power usage. With a capacity of 1.7 cubic feet, you can store enough food and drinks for daily use. The 42-pound weight makes it stable but manageable if you need to move it. Overall, the setup is simple, and daily use is hassle-free thanks to the automatic defrost and adjustable shelving.
Before You Buy This Unit
You should verify your space dimensions carefully. The Danby measures 20.1 inches high and 17.7 inches wide. Ensure you leave room for airflow and door swing. The reversible hinge helps, but you still need clearance. Check your electrical outlet. This unit runs on standard power, but you may need an extension cord if the outlet is far. Keep the scratch-resistant worktop clear of sharp objects to maintain its finish. You will need to wipe down the interior shelves periodically. The automatic defrost feature reduces manual ice removal, but condensation can still occur. Compare this 1.7 cu. ft. model to larger or smaller options in the 1 products listed here. If you need more storage, look for a 1.8 cu. ft. variant. If space is tight, consider the 1.0 cu. ft. version. This compact fridge fits well in offices or dorms. It is not a full-size replacement. Plan your storage layout around the adjustable wire shelves. You can fit tall bottles and standard cans. The CanStor system adds convenience for beverages.
Check before you buy
- Measure your counter space for 20.1 inch height and 17.7 inch width.
- Confirm the door hinge direction fits your room layout.
- Check outlet proximity for power cord access.
- Decide if 1.7 cu. ft. meets your storage needs.
- Plan shelf arrangement for tall bottles and cans.
The product at a glance
Danby 1.7 Cu. Ft. Compact Refrigerator
Best for: Small spaces needing basic manual cooling
- Total Capacity
- 1.7 cu. ft. (49 L)
- Color
- Black
- Dimensions
- 20.1 × 17.7 × 20.1 inches
- Weight
- 42 pounds
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The Danby 1.7 Cu. Ft. Compact Fridge is a black, counter-top unit designed for small spaces. It holds 1.7 cubic feet of cooling space and measures 20.1 inches tall. You get reversible hinges, a mechanical thermostat, and removable wire shelves. It uses R600a refrigerant and is Energy Star compliant. This model suits those needing basic, reliable cooling without digital controls.
Pros
- 1.7 cu. ft. (49 L) total capacity
- Reversible door hinge for flexible placement
- Removable wire shelves for versatile storage
- Mechanical thermostat for simple operation
- Energy Star compliant with R600a refrigerant
Cons
- Mechanical thermostat limits precise temperature control
- No digital display or temperature readout
- Integrated handle reduces door grip surface
Good fit if
- You need a compact unit for a dorm or office
- You prefer simple mechanical controls over digital interfaces
- You require reversible door installation for tight spaces
Skip if
- You need precise digital temperature control
- You want a larger capacity than 1.7 cu. ft.
- You prefer a stainless steel finish over black
Verdict: Danby 1.7 Cu. Ft. Compact Fridge fits users who value simple, manual operation and flexible placement in small areas. It offers essential cooling without complex features.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Danby 1.7 Cu. Ft. Compact Refrigerator |
|---|---|
| Total Capacity | 1.7 cu. ft. (49 L) |
| Color | Black |
| Dimensions | 20.1 × 17.7 × 20.1 inches |
| Weight | 42 pounds |
| Size | 1.7 cu. ft. |
| Model | DAR017A2BDD |
Frequently asked questions
Is this Danby compact refrigerator suitable for a small apartment?
Yes, the 1.7 cubic foot capacity is designed for small spaces. It fits well on counters or in tight kitchen areas. The compact footprint allows for flexible placement without overwhelming a room. You can store basic groceries and drinks efficiently. This size is ideal for singles or couples who need essential cooling without a large unit.
What are the exact dimensions of this unit?
The Danby model measures 20.1 inches in height, 17.7 inches in width, and 20.1 inches in length. These specific measurements help you plan your layout accurately. The compact width allows it to fit between cabinets or on standard countertops. You should verify your available space against these dimensions before installation.
How much does the Danby 1.7 Cu. Ft. fridge weigh?
The unit weighs 42 pounds. This weight provides stability on flat surfaces while remaining manageable for relocation. You can move it with assistance if needed. The solid build helps keep the interior temperature consistent. Knowing the weight is useful for ensuring your floor or counter can support the load safely.
Does this refrigerator have a reversible door hinge?
Yes, the design includes a reversible door hinge. This feature allows you to change the door opening direction. You can adjust it to suit your room layout or cabinet alignment. This flexibility is helpful for tight spaces where door swing might be restricted. It ensures the fridge fits your specific environment without obstruction.
What color options are available for this model?
This specific model comes in a black finish. The black color offers a sleek look that blends with many decor styles. The listing specifies the black exterior for this unit. You can pair it with other black appliances for a coordinated appearance. The finish is described as scratch-resistant to maintain its look over time.
What is the model number for this Danby fridge?
The model number is DAR017A2BDD. You can use this code to verify specifications or find replacement parts. It identifies this exact 1.7 cubic foot unit. Keeping this number handy is useful for customer support or warranty registration. It ensures you are referencing the correct product when comparing features or dimensions.
Can this compact fridge store soda bottles?
Yes, the 1.7 cubic foot capacity can hold several soda bottles. The internal volume is sufficient for basic beverage storage. You can also fit small grocery items alongside them. This makes it practical for keeping drinks chilled in a dorm or office. The space is optimized for essential items rather than bulk storage.