When it comes to the list of invaluable things in the kitchen, storage space is pretty high up there. Whether you’re the frequent party host or have a big family with many mouths to feed, cultivating ample room for prepped dishes and favoured ingredients is a game changer. Enter: the chest freezer.
Distinguishing itself from a regular freezer that – more often than not – is connected to a fridge and has a door, a chest freezer (aka a deep freezer) has a hinged lid.
Typically less expensive to buy and run than an upright freezer, and more generous in storage, a chest freezer affords you flexibility in always having your favourite booze, frozen dinners and perishables on hand without the regular kitchen fridge becoming packed to the rafters.
Below, we take a look at some of the best chest freezers currently on the Aussie market that’ll help you freeze with ease.
5 best chest freezers to shop in Australia 2024
Hisense 145L hybrid chest freezer, $295 at Betta
Offering adaptability in your food storage, this Hisense hybrid chest freezer has the ability to switch between a fridge and a freezer – ideal for the dynamic home chef.
Key features:
- 4-star energy rating
- Adjustable thermostat
- Boundless door design
- Ultrathin hinges
- Adjustable wire rack
- Self-standing door
- Convenient water drain
Also available at:
- $297 at The Good Guys
- $299 at Bing Lee
- $399 at Appliances Online
Westinghouse 500L chest freezer, $1049 at The Good Guys
The chest freezer you’ll want during a blackout, this Westinghouse 500L model is able to keep the inside temperature at 0°C for up to 135 hours after powering down. Considering its size, you might even be able to convert this chest freezer into a home ice bath if you’re all about the Wim Hof method.
Key features:
- 3-star energy rating
- Removable baskets
- Adjustable legs for uneven floors
- Hovering door
- LED lighting
- Two-year warranty
Also available at:
- $1049 at Betta
- $1049 at Bing Lee
- $1132 at Appliances Online
Westinghouse 145L chest freezer, $379 at Betta
Another top-rated chest freezer from Westinghouse, this 145L model also boasts power-off protection and its quick chill function is especially handy for rapidly cooling warm items for prolong freshness. Simple and efficient.
Key features:
- 4-star energy rating
- Power-off protection
- Spring-loaded lid
- Removable wire basket
- Adjustable thermostat
- Two-year warranty
Also available at:
- $379 at The Good Guys
- $379 at Bing Lee
- $476 at Appliances Online
Chiq 142L hybrid chest freezer, $299 (usually $349) at The Good Guys
A sleek addition to your kitchen, covered deck or garage, this black hybrid chest freezer from Chiq features both fridge and freezer capabilities with its electric control system. Boasting a 5.5-star energy rating, it’s one of the most energy-efficient models on the market – better for both the environment and your wallet.
Key features:
- Manual defrost function
- Top opening door
- Interior LED lighting
- Sliding removable basket and wire mesh partition
- Child lock
- Three-year warranty
Kolner portable 75L chest fridge freezer, $839 at Myer
The ultimate companion on camping and road trips, this Kolner portable chest fridge-freezer is resistant to dents and corrosion with its stainless steel body, and can fit your freshly caught fish with ease. Happy camping.
Key features:
- -18°C to 10°C temperature range
- Metal latches to keep lid closed
- Rubber feet to protect corners
- SAA-certified adapter and cables
What is the difference between a chest freezer and deep freezer?
A deep freezer is just another name for chest freezer, so there’s really no difference!
Is it okay to keep a chest freezer outside?
If you live in a moderate climate and take steps to protect the freezer from the elements, keeping a chest freezer outside can be okay. Make sure it’s sheltered from rain and direct sunlight – on a covered deck or in a well-ventilated shed – and elevated slightly from the ground to prevent moisture build up underneath. For optimal performance and durability, however, keeping your chest freezer indoors (in the garage, perhaps) is generally best.
Looking to save money on your kitchen? Check out our coupon codes for Bing Lee, House and more.
Related articles:
- It’s vino o’clock: 5 small wine fridges from $175 to finish off your home bar
- Which fridge should I buy? A guide to 8 top-rated fridge brands in Australia
- Keep your cool: Upgrade your grocery storage with these 5 top-rated fridges