6 Best Alternatives to the Frigidaire EFMIS171 Retro Mini Portable (2026)

How each alternative compares

Frigidaire 9L 12-Can Retro Mini Cooler

The Frigidaire 9L 12-Can Retro Mini Cooler doubles the storage of the original EFMIS171. It holds 12 cans instead of 6, which helps if you buy drinks in bulk or share with a roommate. The unit weighs 4 pounds, slightly more than the 3-pound original, but remains lightweight for carrying. It uses thermoelectric cooling like the base model and includes both household and vehicle power cords. The dimensions are larger, measuring 10 inches wide and 10.5 inches high, so it takes up more desk space. You should choose this if you need more capacity without switching to a compressor-based fridge. It keeps the same retro aesthetic and dual-power convenience you already like.

Cooluli Classic 4L Portable Mini Fridge

The Cooluli Classic 4L Portable Mini Fridge matches the original in capacity, holding 6 cans, but offers more flexible power options. It supports AC, DC, and USB connectivity, whereas the original only lists AC and DC cigarette lighter options. This makes it easier to power from laptops or power banks. The unit weighs 4.19 pounds, which is heavier than the 3-pound original. Its dimensions are slightly wider at 10.2 inches and deeper at 7.7 inches. It includes cooling and warming modes, adding versatility if you need to keep items cool or warm. You should pick this if you travel frequently and need to plug into different power sources. The extra weight is a small trade-off for that connectivity.

Antarctic Star 4L Mini Fridge with Mirror

The Antarctic Star 4L Mini Fridge with Mirror adds a specialized feature the original lacks: an illuminated LED mirror on the door. This makes it ideal for skincare storage or makeup application on a vanity. It holds 6 cans, matching the original capacity, but weighs 4.4 pounds. The dimensions are 7.09 inches wide and 10.2 inches high, which is similar in footprint but slightly taller. It operates at 38 dB, which is quiet for desktop use. It supports dual-voltage wiring for home or car use. You should choose this if you want a beauty-focused unit that doubles as a personal fridge. The mirror feature is the main differentiator, providing utility that the standard black model does not offer.

The CROWNFUL 4-Liter Portable Cooler and Warmer is designed for quiet operation, running at just 25 dB. This is significantly quieter than typical thermoelectric units, making it better for bedrooms or quiet offices. It holds 6 cans, matching the original capacity, but is larger and heavier at 4.79 pounds. The dimensions are 6.05 inches wide and 7.96 inches high, creating a different shape that may fit differently on your desk. It offers both cooling and heating modes. You should pick this if noise is your primary concern. The original is lighter and simpler, but the CROWNFUL provides a near-silent environment for sensitive spaces. The trade-off is a larger, heavier build for the sake of quietness.

Antarctic Star 4L Portable Cooler and Warmer

The Antarctic Star 4L Portable Cooler and Warmer focuses on dual-temperature operation in a compact form. It holds 6 cans, similar to the original, but weighs 4.41 pounds. The dimensions are 7.09 inches wide and 10.2 inches high. It provides both cooling and warming modes, offering more versatility than the original which is primarily for cooling. It runs near-silently, which is good for bedrooms or offices. You should choose this if you need to keep items warm as well as cold. The original is lighter at 3 pounds, but this unit offers more functional modes. It is a practical choice for users who want one device for both chilled drinks and warmed snacks.

The FANSEXPERT 4L Mini Car Fridge with LED Mirror is a specialized unit for skincare storage. It includes an illuminated mirror on the door, adding utility for vanity use. It holds 6 cans, matching the original capacity, but is heavier at 4.5 pounds. The dimensions are 8 inches wide and 12 inches high, making it taller than the original. It features a carry handle for portability. You should pick this if you want a beauty-focused fridge with a mirror. The original is shorter and lighter, but the FANSEXPERT offers a dedicated aesthetic for personal care. It is best for users who prioritize the mirror feature and skincare storage over pure beverage cooling.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

Frigidaire 4-Liter 6-Can Mini Fridge

Best for: desktop beverage and small snack cooling

Total Capacity

4 L

Can Capacity

6 cans

Cooling Type

Thermoelectric

Form Factor

Portable

Features

Carry Handle

Application

Home, Office, Dorm, Car

View on Amazon: Frigidaire 4-Liter 6-Can Mini Fridge Affiliate link

This compact thermoelectric personal cooler holds up to 4 liters or six 12-ounce cans. You get a lightweight 3-pound frame measuring 10 by 7 by 10.5 inches, along with a built-in carry handle for transport. It includes cords for standard home wall outlets and DC vehicle outlets. This model suits you if you need a dedicated tabletop drink chiller for your desk, office, dorm room, or car travel.

Pros

• Weighs 3 pounds for easy transport
• Includes home AC and 12V DC vehicle cords
• Flush-back design fits tight spaces
• Built-in carry handle on top

Cons

• Interior dimensions of 5 x 5 x 7.5 inches restrict container size
• Total capacity is limited to six 12-ounce cans

Good fit if

• You need a personal cooler powered by home AC and vehicle DC outlets.
• You want a lightweight 3-pound cooler with an integrated carrying handle.
• You only need to store up to six standard 12-ounce cans or small snacks.

Skip if

• You need to store containers larger than 5 by 5 by 7.5 inches.
• You want to chill more than six beverage cans at a time.

Verdict: Frigidaire 4-Liter Portable Mini Fridge provides straightforward, portable cooling with dual-power options in a compact 3-pound footprint. It works well if you want personal desktop drink storage without taking up excess space.

2 Best premium

Frigidaire 9L 12-Can Retro Mini Cooler

Best for: 12-can portable storage in cars and dorms

Total Capacity

9L

Can Capacity

12 cans

Cooling Type

thermoelectric

Form Factor

Portable

Application

Home, Office, Dorm, Bedroom, Car

Color

Black

View on Amazon: Frigidaire 9L 12-Can Retro Mini Cooler Affiliate link

This portable thermoelectric unit gives you a 9L capacity designed to hold up to 12 cans or skincare items. It includes power cords for standard home outlets and 12V car adapters. The cooling system cools items 26 to 28 degrees Fahrenheit below ambient room temperature. It suits you if you want double the can capacity of smaller retro models with flexible vehicle and desktop power options.

Pros

• Holds up to 12 beverage cans with 9L capacity
• Operates on 12V car socket or standard wall plug
• Cools 26 to 28 degrees Fahrenheit below room temperature
• Carrying handle and locking door latch included

Cons

• Cooling relies strictly on ambient room temperature
• No warming setting provided

Good fit if

• You want to store up to 12 beverage cans in a compact footprint.
• You need dual power options for both wall outlets and 12V car sockets.
• You prefer a locking latch to keep the door secure during transport.

Skip if

• You require precise digital temperature controls.
• You need a warming feature to heat items.

Verdict: Frigidaire 9L 12-Can Retro Mini Cooler delivers 12-can thermoelectric chilling with both household and vehicle power cords. It suits desktop or car use where compact capacity matters most.

3 Best interior led light

Frigidaire 6-Can Black Portable Cooler

Best for: gaming setups and portable skincare cooling

Total Capacity

4 L

Can Capacity

6 cans

Cooling Type

Thermoelectric

Form Factor

Portable

Features

Interior LED Light

Application

Home, Office, Car

View on Amazon: Frigidaire 6-Can Black Portable Cooler Affiliate link

This Frigidaire portable cooler offers 4 liters of storage for six cans or one gallon. It uses a thermoelectric system to cool 26-28 degrees below ambient temperature. The interior features colored LED lights for gaming setups. It weighs just 3 pounds and includes a 12V car adapter for travel. This compact unit suits gamers and skincare enthusiasts who need portable, quiet cooling.

Pros

• Interior LED lighting adds visual flair
• Includes 12V car adapter for vehicle use
• Weighs only 3 pounds for portability
• Cools 26-28 degrees below ambient temperature

Cons

• 4-liter capacity holds only 6 cans
• Thermoelectric cooling depends on room temperature
• Dimensions are 10 by 11 by 7 inches

Good fit if

• You want LED lighting for gaming setups
• You need a 12V car adapter
• You prioritize lightweight portability

Skip if

• You need to store more than 6 cans
• You require deep freezing below ambient
• You want a larger interior space

Verdict: Frigidaire Gaming LED Mini Fridge fits gamers who value ambient lighting and portability over high capacity. It is a compact solution for cooling drinks or skincare products in cars or desks.

4 Best budget

Antarctic Star 4L Portable Cooler

Best for: small personal spaces and car use

Total Capacity

4 L

Can Capacity

6 cans

Cooling Type

Thermoelectric

Heating Capability

Cool and warm dual use

Form Factor

Portable

Application

Office, Dorm, Bedroom, Car

View on Amazon: Antarctic Star 4L Portable Cooler Affiliate link

The Antarctic Star 4L unit is a portable cooler and warmer using thermoelectric technology. It holds 6 cans and measures 10.2 inches tall. It cools up to 32°F below room temperature and warms to 149°F. The design includes a handle for easy transport. It operates quietly at below 45dB. This compact fridge suits small spaces like dorms or cars.

Pros

• 4-liter capacity holds 6 standard cans
• Cools up to 32°F below room temperature
• Dual voltage support for car or home use
• Quiet operation below 45dB

Cons

• 4-liter capacity is smaller than 9L or 12-can alternatives
• Thermoelectric cooling is less powerful than compressor models
• Maximum warming temperature is 149°F

Good fit if

• You need a compact unit for a car or desk
• You want to keep drinks chilled or food warm
• You prioritize quiet operation in a small space

Skip if

• You need to store more than 6 cans
• You require deep freezing below room temperature
• You want a larger capacity for family use

Verdict: Antarctic Star 4L Portable Cooler and Warmer fits users needing a small, quiet unit for personal drinks in a car or office. It is not suitable for large groups or deep freezing needs.

5 Also great

Cooluli Classic 4L Portable Mini Fridge

Best for: flexible power connectivity and travel

Total Capacity

4 L

Can Capacity

6 cans

Heating Capability

Cooler and warmer

Form Factor

Portable

Application

Office, Dorm, Bedroom, Skincare, Car

Color

Black

View on Amazon: Cooluli Classic 4L Portable Mini Fridge Affiliate link

The Cooluli 4L Portable Mini Fridge is a compact thermoelectric cooler and warmer designed for personal spaces. You get a 4-liter interior holding up to six cans, measuring 5.3 by 5.7 by 8.3 inches inside. It operates via AC, DC, or USB cords, cooling 40°F to 45°F below ambient temperature and warming between 122°F and 144°F. It suits you if you need lightweight temperature control across desks, vehicles, and bedrooms.

Pros

• Includes AC, DC, and USB power cords
• Cools 40°F to 45°F below ambient room temperature
• Dual warming mode reaches 122°F to 144°F
• Lightweight 4-pound portable frame

Cons

• Interior capacity limited to 4 liters or 6 cans
• Cooling capability relies directly on ambient room temperature

Good fit if

• You need USB and car DC power options alongside standard AC power.
• You want both cooling and warming modes in a single compact unit.

Skip if

• You need to store more than six cans or items taller than 8.3 inches.
• You require exact temperature settings independent of ambient room heat.

Verdict: Cooluli 4L Portable Mini Fridge provides triple power support with AC, DC, and USB compatibility in a lightweight 4-pound shell. It gives you flexible cooling and warming modes for personal storage at home or on the road.

6 Also great

Antarctic Star 4L Mini Fridge with Mirror

Best for: skincare storage and lighted makeup application

Total Capacity

4L

Can Capacity

6 cans

Form Factor

Portable

Application

Office, Dorm, Bedroom, Skincare, Car

Color

Black

Dimensions

9.65 × 7.09 × 10.2 inches

View on Amazon: Antarctic Star 4L Mini Fridge with Mirror Affiliate link

The Antarctic Star 4L Mini Fridge is a compact personal cooler featuring a built-in dimmable LED light mirror on the door. It holds 4 liters or up to six 12-ounce cans on a single removable shelf. It operates at 38 dB and cools up to 32°F below ambient room temperature. Dual AC and 12V DC power options suit desk use, bedside vanity setups, or vehicle travel.

Pros

• Door features a dimmable LED illuminated mirror
• Dual power support for 100-120V AC and 12V DC
• Low noise output rated at 38 dB
• Weighs 4.4 pounds with a removable shelf

Cons

• Cooling limited to 32°F below ambient room temperature
• Holds only up to six standard 12-ounce cans

Good fit if

• You want an illuminated mirror built into the fridge door for cosmetics.
• You need both home AC and 12V car power connections.
• You want a lightweight 4.4-pound cooler for a desk or vanity.

Skip if

• You need to store more than six 12-ounce cans at a time.
• You require chilling deeper than 32°F below ambient room temperature.

Verdict: Antarctic Star 4L Mini Fridge with LED Mirror pairs compact 6-can cooling with an illuminated door mirror for desks and vanities. Its dual-voltage wiring and quiet 38 dB operation make it practical at home or in a vehicle.

7 Also great

Antarctic Star 4L Portable Cooler and Warmer

Best for: ultra-quiet desktop and travel temperature control

Total Capacity

4 L

Can Capacity

6 cans

Cooling Type

Thermoelectric

Heating Capability

Cooler and warmer

Form Factor

Portable

Application

Office, Dorm, Bedroom, Car

View on Amazon: Antarctic Star 4L Portable Cooler and Warmer Affiliate link

If you need an alternative to retro desktop coolers, the Antarctic Star 4L Portable Cooler and Warmer gives you a compact 6-can capacity weighing just 4.41 pounds. It uses thermoelectric power to chill items up to 32°F below ambient room temperature or heat contents up to 149°F. Operating below 25dB with dual AC 120V-220V and DC 12V support, it suits your bedside table, office desk, or vehicle.

Pros

• Operates under 25dB for quiet desktop or bedroom use
• Dual-mode thermoelectric system cools or warms up to 149°F
• Supports both DC 12V vehicle and AC 120V-220V home power
• Lightweight 4.41-pound frame includes a built-in carry handle

Cons

• Cooling capability is limited to 32°F below ambient room temperature
• Compact 4-liter capacity holds a maximum of six standard cans

Good fit if

• You need dual-voltage support for home outlets and vehicle power sockets.
• You want an ultra-quiet unit rated below 25dB for a desk or nightstand.
• You plan to switch between cooling drinks and warming lunches or bottles.

Skip if

• You need to refrigerate more than six standard cans at once.
• You require exact digital thermostat controls rather than basic cool and warm modes.

Verdict: Antarctic Star 4L Portable Cooler and Warmer delivers versatile dual-temperature operation and near-silent running in a compact 4.41-pound build. It provides efficient personal chilling or warming for your vehicle, office, or bedroom.

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Frequently asked questions

See also

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• frigidaire portable room air conditioner alternatives