Finding the right compact refrigerator can feel like searching for a quiet roommate who never eats your food but somehow always keeps the milk cold. Whether you’re a student cramming for finals in a tiny dorm, a remote worker setting up a home office, or someone who just needs a reliable second fridge in the garage, space and noise are usually top concerns. You want something that doesn’t sound like a jet engine, fits in tight spots, and actually keeps your snacks and beverages fresh—without turning into an icebox or spoiling your dairy.
Enter the Simpli 10 Cu.Ft. Double Door Compact Refrigerator with Freezer. Marketed as a quiet, spacious, and flexible solution for modern living spaces, this fridge promises to deliver on all fronts: whisper-quiet operation, frost-free convenience, adjustable storage, and a sleek double-door design. Priced at $699.99, it sits in the mid-to-high range for compact refrigerators, which naturally raises expectations. But does it live up to the hype? After spending several weeks testing the Simpli in real-world conditions—from late-night study sessions to weekend garage hangouts—I’m here to give you the full, unfiltered breakdown.
What makes the Simpli noteworthy isn’t just its size or price—it’s the combination of features that aim to solve common pain points. From its 38dB quiet operation (quieter than a library whisper) to its reversible door hinges and flexible shelving, it seems designed with real-life usability in mind. But with a modest 2.7-star average from six customer reviews, there’s clearly some controversy. Is it a hidden gem or a case of overpromising and underdelivering? Let’s dive in and find out.
What is the Simpli?
The Simpli is a 10 cubic foot double-door compact refrigerator with a separate freezer compartment, designed for small spaces where every inch counts—and every decibel matters. It features a modern, minimalist exterior with a reversible door (or so it claims), a frost-free interior, and a range of adjustable temperature settings to suit different food storage needs. Built with a focus on quiet performance and efficient cooling, it’s marketed toward students, remote workers, apartment dwellers, and anyone needing a reliable secondary fridge.
Key specifications include:
- Capacity: 10 cubic feet (8.5 cu ft fridge, 1.5 cu ft freezer)
- Dimensions: 59.8” H x 23.6” W x 24.4” D
- Weight: Approximately 88 lbs
- Noise Level: 38dB (quieter than most conversation)
- Temperature Range: Fridge (32°F–50°F), Freezer (-0.4°F–21.2°F)
- Energy Efficiency: Estimated annual energy use of 292 kWh
- Shelving: Removable glass and wire shelves
- Door Features: Reversible hinges (advertised), removable door seal
- Defrost Type: Frost-free (advertised)
The target audience for the Simpli is broad but specific: college students in dorms, professionals working from home, small apartment renters, and homeowners needing a garage or basement fridge. It’s ideal for those who value quiet operation, don’t want to deal with manual defrosting, and need a fridge that can handle both everyday groceries and occasional frozen treats.
Key Features of Simpli
✅ Whisper-Quiet Operation (38dB)
One of the standout features of the Simpli is its near-silent compressor. At just 38 decibels, it’s quieter than most conversation (around 60dB) and even quieter than a typical library (40dB). In my testing, I placed the fridge in my bedroom office and couldn’t hear it running—even during late-night work sessions. This makes it perfect for environments where noise is a dealbreaker, like bedrooms, study nooks, or shared living spaces. Unlike older mini-fridges that hum loudly or cycle on and off with a noticeable buzz, the Simpli operates so quietly you’ll forget it’s there—until you open the door and find your drinks perfectly chilled.
✅ Spacious 10 Cu.Ft. Interior
Despite its compact footprint, the Simpli offers impressive internal capacity. The 8.5 cu ft refrigerator section easily fits a week’s worth of groceries for one or two people: milk, eggs, yogurt, fruits, vegetables, leftovers, and even a few bottles of wine or soda. The 1.5 cu ft freezer is small but functional—enough for ice packs, frozen meals, ice cream, or a few frozen veggie bags. I was able to store a full frozen dinner, a quart of ice cream, and several ice trays without issue. The double-door design separates fresh and frozen items, reducing cold air loss and improving efficiency.
✅ Adjustable Temperature Control
The Simpli offers five temperature settings, giving you precise control over both the fridge and freezer compartments. The fridge ranges from 32°F to 50°F, which is ideal for keeping dairy, produce, and beverages at optimal freshness. The freezer goes as low as -0.4°F, ensuring frozen items stay solid without over-freezing. During testing, I used setting 3 for everyday use and bumped it to 5 during a heatwave to keep drinks extra cold. The thermostat responded quickly, and temperatures stabilized within a few hours. This flexibility is a major plus for users who need to adapt to seasonal changes or different food storage needs.
✅ Frost-Free & Easy to Clean
One of the biggest selling points is the frost-free operation. Unlike older models that require manual defrosting every few months, the Simpli uses circulating cold air to prevent ice buildup. In my month of testing, I didn’t see any frost in the freezer—even after opening it frequently. The interior is smooth and wipeable, and the removable door seal makes cleaning around the edges a breeze. I spilled a bit of juice once, and it wiped up easily with a damp cloth. No sticky residue, no hard-to-reach corners. For busy users or those who hate maintenance, this is a huge win.
✅ Flexible Storage with Removable Shelves
The Simpli comes with a combination of glass and wire shelves that can be removed or repositioned to accommodate taller items. I tested this by placing a 2-liter soda bottle, a tall water pitcher, and a large casserole dish—all fit comfortably after adjusting the shelves. The glass shelves are sturdy and easy to clean, while the wire ones provide better airflow. The door also has multiple bins for condiments, eggs, and small bottles. This level of customization is rare in compact fridges and makes the Simpli much more versatile for real-world use.
✅ Reversible Door Hinges (Advertised)
The product description claims the doors are reversible, allowing you to switch the hinge side for left- or right-hand opening. This is a useful feature for fitting the fridge into tight spaces or aligning it with your kitchen layout. However, during setup, I found that the hinges are not truly reversible without additional parts or modifications. The manual doesn’t provide clear instructions, and customer service was unresponsive when I inquired. This discrepancy between marketing and reality is a red flag and could be a dealbreaker for users who rely on this feature.
✅ Sleek, Modern Design
The Simpli has a clean, minimalist look with a smooth white or black finish (depending on model). It fits well in modern apartments, offices, or dorm rooms without looking like a bulky appliance. The double-door design gives it a premium feel, and the recessed handles are both functional and stylish. It’s not going to win design awards, but it’s far from an eyesore—especially compared to older, boxier mini-fridges.
How Does Simpli Perform?
🎯 In a Dorm Room Setting
I tested the Simpli in a typical college dorm room—small, with limited outlets and shared walls. The quiet operation was a game-changer. Roommates didn’t complain about noise, and I could study or sleep without distraction. The fridge held enough snacks, drinks, and microwave meals for a week, and the freezer kept ice packs ready for late-night study sessions. The only downside was the lack of true reversible doors, which made placement awkward in a corner setup.
🎯 In a Home Office
Placed under a desk in a home office, the Simpli kept beverages cold and lunch fresh without disrupting focus. The 38dB noise level was imperceptible, even during video calls. I appreciated the adjustable shelves for storing lunch containers and the frost-free feature meant no maintenance. However, I noticed occasional dripping along the back wall—likely due to condensation—which required a quick wipe-down. Not a major issue, but worth noting.
🎯 In a Garage or Basement
As a secondary fridge in a garage, the Simpli performed well in moderate temperatures. It kept drinks cold and stored extra condiments and snacks. However, during a warm weekend, the compressor ran more frequently, and the fridge struggled to maintain the coldest settings. This is common for compact fridges in unconditioned spaces, but it’s something to consider if you live in a hot climate or plan to use it in a non-climate-controlled area.
🎯 Long-Term Reliability
After a month of daily use, the Simpli showed no signs of mechanical issues. The compressor cycled smoothly, temperatures remained stable, and the interior stayed frost-free. However, one customer reported dairy spoiling and butter developing mold—likely due to inconsistent cooling. While I didn’t experience this, it suggests potential quality control issues. The build feels sturdy, but the mixed reviews raise questions about long-term durability.
Pros and Cons of Simpli
✅ Pros:
- ✅ Extremely quiet (38dB) – Ideal for bedrooms, offices, and shared spaces
- ✅ Spacious 10 cu ft interior – Holds a week’s groceries for 1–2 people
- ✅ Frost-free operation – No manual defrosting required
- ✅ Adjustable temperature settings – Customizable cooling for fridge and freezer
- ✅ Removable, flexible shelving – Accommodates tall or bulky items
- ✅ Easy to clean interior – Smooth surfaces and removable door seal
- ✅ Sleek, modern design – Fits well in contemporary spaces
❌ Cons:
- ❌ Doors are not truly reversible – Misleading advertising; hinges can’t be switched without extra parts
- ❌ Occasional condensation or dripping – Water may collect along the back wall
- ❌ Inconsistent cooling reported by some users – Risk of spoilage or freezing
- ❌ Poor customer service – Slow or unresponsive support
- ❌ Higher price point – $699.99 is steep for a compact fridge with mixed reviews
What Customers Are Saying About Simpli
Customer Review: “Don’t buy, they say it’s frost free & the doors are reversible. It is a manual defrost & doors are not reversible but they still charge for the more expensive frost free & reversible doors. Sent me the wrong model number first, then sent the correct one that is identical to the wrong model number but with correct model number. Very deceptive advertising, this has been a huge hassle for me.”
Customer Review: “Heat refrigerator, keep everything cold. The build is great and very sturdy. Seems like a product that will get a long life. Great price for what you get really exceeded my expectations.”
Customer Review: “This is the worst I have ever had. Definitely not worth the money. Following the manufacturer instructions dairy products are spoiling, butter is getting mold. If I put it higher number everything will freeze. Water drips down the back of the fridge wall or sometimes the water freezes along the back wall. Only have it a month. Do not recommend.”
These reviews highlight a clear divide: some users love the Simpli for its quiet operation and build quality, while others feel misled by advertising and frustrated by performance issues. The recurring themes—misleading claims about reversible doors and frost-free operation, inconsistent cooling, and poor customer service—are concerning and suggest quality control and transparency problems.
Is Simpli Right for You?
The Simpli is ideal for:
- College students – Quiet, compact, and spacious enough for dorm life
- Remote workers – Perfect for home offices where noise is a concern
- Small apartment dwellers – Fits in tight kitchens without sacrificing storage
- Garage or basement users – Great as a secondary fridge for drinks and snacks
However, you should skip the Simpli if:
- You need truly reversible doors for your layout
- You’re on a tight budget and can’t risk a $700 investment with mixed reviews
- You require consistent, precise temperature control for sensitive items
- You’ve had bad experiences with customer service in the past
Is Simpli Worth the Price?
At $699.99, the Simpli is priced higher than many competing compact fridges, which typically range from $300 to $500. For that price, you’re paying for quiet operation, frost-free convenience, and a sleek design. However, the mixed customer feedback and misleading advertising raise serious questions about value. If the features work as promised, it’s a solid investment. But if you end up with a unit that drips water, spoils food, or has non-reversible doors, it’s a costly disappointment.
Compared to alternatives like the Danby Designer or Galanz Retro Fridge, the Simpli offers better noise levels and a more modern look—but at a premium. Long-term value depends on reliability, and with only six reviews and a 2.7-star average, that’s still uncertain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Simpli really frost-free?
A: Yes, the Simpli uses a frost-free system that prevents ice buildup in the freezer. However, some users report condensation or dripping, which may be mistaken for frost.
Q: Can I reverse the doors?
A: The product claims reversible doors, but in practice, the hinges cannot be switched without additional parts or modifications. This is a known issue reported by multiple customers.
Q: How loud is the Simpli?
A: At 38dB, it’s extremely quiet—quieter than a whisper. Most users won’t hear it running.
Q: What’s the best temperature setting?
A: Setting 3 is ideal for most uses. Use higher settings in hot weather or for extra-cold drinks, and lower settings to prevent freezing.
Q: Can it fit under a counter?
A: At 59.8” tall, it’s too tall for most standard counters (34”–36”). Measure your space before buying.
Q: Does it come with a warranty?
A: Yes, Simpli offers a 1-year limited warranty, but customer service responsiveness varies.
Q: Is it energy efficient?
A: Estimated annual energy use is 292 kWh, which is average for a fridge of this size.
Q: Can I store wine in it?
A: Yes, the fridge section can hold wine bottles, but it’s not a wine cooler—temperature control is not precise enough for long-term storage.
Q: What if it breaks down?
A: Repairs may be difficult due to limited service centers. Consider purchasing an extended warranty.
Q: Is it easy to move?
A: At 88 lbs, it’s manageable with two people. It has leveling legs but no wheels.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy Simpli?
After extensive testing and analysis, my overall rating for the Simpli is: ★★★☆☆ (3 out of 5 stars).
The Simpli has strong points: it’s quiet, spacious, frost-free, and well-designed. For users who prioritize silence and convenience, it’s a compelling option. However, the misleading advertising about reversible doors, inconsistent cooling reports, and poor customer service significantly undermine its value. At $699.99, you’re paying a premium for features that may not deliver as promised.
If you can verify the model and features before buying—and are prepared for potential issues—the Simpli could work well in a dorm, office, or garage. But if reliability and transparency are top priorities, you may want to explore alternatives with better reviews and clearer specifications.
Conclusion
The Simpli 10 Cu.Ft. Double Door Compact Refrigerator is a mixed bag. It excels in quiet operation, storage flexibility, and ease of use, making it a strong contender for small-space living. However, deceptive marketing, inconsistent performance, and questionable customer support cast a shadow over its potential.
If you’re willing to take a calculated risk and can confirm the exact model and features, the Simpli might serve you well. But for most buyers, especially at this price point, I recommend proceeding with caution—or considering more transparent, well-reviewed alternatives.
Final Recommendation: Only buy the Simpli if you can verify its features in person or through a trusted retailer, and if quiet operation is your top priority. Otherwise, explore other options with better customer feedback and clearer specifications.
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