Russell Hobbs Freestanding 60/40 Fridge Freezer Review

Wondering if a 60/40 fridge freezer can really handle a busy household?

We often ask the same thing when we upgrade our kitchen appliances: will this fridge freezer actually make our lives easier, or will it just look good in the corner? With the Russell Hobbs Freestanding 60/40 Split C Class Fridge Freezer, 331L Total Capacity, Total No Frost, 4 Star Freezer Rating, Adjustable Feet, Reversible Door in Anthracite, RH185FF601C1AN [Energy Class C], we set out to answer that question in a practical, real‑world way.

In this review, we share what we think about its storage, features, usability, design, and value so we can decide together whether this is the right fridge freezer for our home.

Key Features at a Glance

Before we get into the detail, it helps to have a quick overview of what this fridge freezer offers. We find that seeing the essentials side by side makes it easier to judge if it fits our needs.

We see this model as a family‑friendly, everyday fridge freezer that tries to balance practicality, style, and running efficiency.

Capacity and Layout: Can It Handle a Weekly Shop?

When we think about a new fridge freezer, capacity is usually the first thing we check. We want enough space for a full weekly shop, leftovers, meal prep containers, and all those little jars and bottles that seem to multiply overnight.

331L Total Capacity: 230L Fridge + 101L Freezer

With 331L total capacity, this unit sits comfortably in the “family‑sized” category. The 230L fridge section is where most of us store the bulk of our food, and that’s where this model really shines. The 101L freezer is slightly more compact, which works well if we use the freezer mainly for essentials rather than big bulk buys.

We find this capacity suitable for small to medium families, couples who cook frequently, or shared homes where a few of us are stocking up together.

60/40 Split: More Fridge, Sensible Freezer

The 60/40 split means around 60% of the space is fridge and 40% is freezer. For most households where fresh food, dairy, and leftovers are used daily, this layout is more practical than a 50/50 split.

We appreciate this setup if:

• We cook from fresh ingredients most days
• We only need the freezer for meats, frozen vegetables, bread, and a few batch‑cooked meals
• We’re tight on kitchen space but still want proper separation between chilled and frozen items

If we rely heavily on frozen food, we might feel the freezer section is on the smaller side, but for balanced use it hits a sweet spot.

Fridge Storage: Shelves, Door Racks, and Crisper

The fridge section is where design really affects how easy it is to live with an appliance. We like that this model keeps things simple but practical.

Four Shelves for Flexible Organisation

The fridge comes with 4 shelves, offering several levels to separate cooked and raw foods, drinks, and ready‑to‑eat items. Having multiple shelves makes it easier to create zones:

• Top shelves for cooked food and leftovers
• Middle for dairy, cold cuts, and everyday items
• Lower shelves for raw meat or fish (in sealed containers)

We find that, with this number of shelves, we can adjust our layout to match our habits, keeping everything accessible instead of stacked in one tall, messy pile.

Three Door Racks for Bottles, Jars, and Condiments

The 3 door racks are perfect for storing taller bottles, sauces, and small items that tend to get lost at the back. This also frees up the main shelves for actual food containers.

We can easily dedicate:

• Top rack to jars and small bottles
• Middle rack to milk, juice, and taller drinks
• Bottom rack to bulky or heavier bottles

This structure helps us keep everything visible and reduces the “where’s the ketchup?” moments.

Crisper with Humidity Control for Fresh Produce

One of the highlights is the crisper compartment with humidity control. With a fresh dial on the drawer, we can adjust airflow and humidity to match what we’re storing.

• Higher humidity is better for leafy greens and delicate vegetables
• Lower humidity suits fruits and items that prefer a drier environment

We appreciate this because it helps extend the life of fresh produce, meaning less waste and fewer sad, wilted vegetables forgotten at the bottom of the fridge.

Freezer Storage: Three Drawers for Easy Access

A freezer is only as good as its organisation. We like that this model gives us three separate freezer drawers, each with enough depth to store a good amount of food without turning it into a chaotic block of ice.

Three Drawers for Structured Freezing

Having 3 drawers means we can create a simple system that suits our household, for example:

• Top drawer: ready meals, leftovers, batch‑cooked portions
• Middle drawer: meats and fish
• Bottom drawer: vegetables, bread, and bulkier items

By keeping categories separated, we reduce the amount of time we hold the door open searching for things, and we can keep a better overview of what we already have.

4-Star Freezer Rating for Long-Term Storage

The 4-star freezer rating is important if we store food for longer periods. It means we can safely freeze fresh food and keep it at a consistently low enough temperature for long‑term preservation.

We feel more confident buying in bulk or batch cooking knowing the freezer is rated for this level of performance, keeping both taste and nutrients locked in.

Total No Frost: No More Manual Defrosting

Defrosting a freezer manually is a job many of us put off for as long as possible. That’s why the Total No Frost feature stands out as a genuinely time‑saving benefit.

How Total No Frost Works for Us

Total No Frost circulates cold air evenly around the entire appliance. This stops ice from building up on the walls, shelves, and drawers, so:

• We never have to chip away thick layers of frost
• Storage space stays maximised over time
• Food doesn’t end up stuck together in frozen clumps

We really value this feature because it keeps everything running efficiently without us needing to schedule messy defrosting days.

Fresher Food, Less Moisture, and Fewer Odors

Beyond convenience, this air circulation also helps in other ways. By reducing excess moisture:

• Bacteria growth is reduced
• Odors are less likely to linger
• Food keeps its texture and freshness for longer

We appreciate that this contributes to a more hygienic environment inside the fridge freezer. It’s not just about not defrosting; it also means the air feels cleaner each time we open the doors.

Temperature Control: Simple and Precise

Our food stays safe and fresh when the temperature is stable, and that’s where good controls make a difference.

Electronic Temperature Control for Accuracy

This fridge freezer uses electronic temperature controls, which means we adjust settings more precisely than with old‑style manual dials. We can fine‑tune the temperature rather than guessing between vague “low” and “high” settings.

We like that this helps us:

• Keep dairy and meats at safe, consistent temperatures
• Adjust the coldness seasonally if our kitchen gets warmer or cooler
• Save energy by avoiding unnecessarily low temperature settings

Having responsive, easy‑to‑read controls gives us more confidence that our food is being stored as it should be.

Balanced Performance Across Fridge and Freezer

Because both the fridge and freezer benefit from well‑regulated cooling, we avoid:

• Freezer burn from overly cold settings
• Partially frozen items in the fridge section
• Uneven cooling between top and bottom shelves

We find that this balancing act is essential for everyday peace of mind, especially when we store a variety of fresh and frozen foods together.

Noise Level: Quiet Mark Approved for Peace at Home

Noise can be a surprisingly important factor, especially in open‑plan spaces or smaller homes. We don’t want a constant humming in the background while we relax, work, or watch TV.

What Quiet Mark Approval Means for Us

This model is Quiet Mark approved, which means it has been tested and certified to operate at a low noise level. We can expect:

• Minimal background hum from the compressor
• Reduced vibrations and rattles
• Less disruption in quiet rooms or open‑plan kitchens

We particularly appreciate this if our kitchen is connected to our living or dining area, because the fridge freezer becomes part of our living space rather than a noisy distraction.

A Happier, Calmer Home Environment

With a quieter appliance, our home feels more peaceful. We notice the difference most at night or early in the morning when everything else is silent. We’re not constantly aware of the fridge freezer switching on and off, which creates a more relaxing atmosphere overall.

Design and Style: Anthracite Finish That Fits Modern Kitchens

We care not only about what an appliance can do, but also how it looks and fits in with our home. This model tries to tick both boxes with a sleek exterior and thoughtful details.

Anthracite Finish for a Modern Look

The anthracite finish gives this fridge freezer a contemporary, slightly darker appearance compared to standard white. It blends well with:

• Dark or grey kitchen units
• Stainless steel appliances
• Neutral or minimalist colour schemes

We like that it looks stylish without being flashy, helping our kitchen feel up‑to‑date and coordinated.

Slim 60cm Width, Tall 185cm Height

With dimensions of 185cm (H) x 60cm (W) x 65cm (D), this appliance is designed to slot into standard 60cm gaps. The height gives us the benefit of extra vertical storage without needing more floor space.

We find this suitable if:

• We’re upgrading from an older 60cm unit
• We have limited kitchen width but decent ceiling height
• We want as much capacity as possible in a compact footprint

The depth of 65cm is also fairly typical, meaning it should align reasonably well with most counters and cabinets.

Practical Setup: Reversible Door and Adjustable Feet

Sometimes the little installation details make or break how well an appliance fits our home. We like that this fridge freezer offers a good level of flexibility.

Reversible Door for Flexible Placement

The reversible door means we can choose which side the doors open from, left or right, depending on our kitchen layout. This is especially useful when:

• Our kitchen corner only allows doors to open one way
• We’re placing it near a wall or another appliance
• We want to match the opening direction with existing units

We see this as a must‑have feature for many modern kitchens because it allows us to work with our space rather than around fixed door hinges.

Adjustable Feet for a Stable, Level Fit

The adjustable feet help us level the fridge freezer on slightly uneven floors. A properly level appliance:

• Closes doors more reliably
• Reduces unnecessary noise and vibrations
• Ensures the internal systems work optimally

We appreciate this feature because not all kitchen floors are perfectly flat, especially in older homes. Being able to tweak the height and angle makes installation smoother and safer.

Energy Efficiency: Energy Class C

Running costs and environmental impact are important for many of us. With Energy Class C, this model sits above less efficient appliances but not at the very top of the current energy scale.

Balancing Performance and Efficiency

Energy Class C means:

• It’s more efficient than many older fridges and freezers we may be replacing
• It provides a reasonable balance between cooling performance and energy use
• It won’t be as efficient as top A‑class models, but it also won’t carry the highest price tag

We see this as a sensible middle ground for households that want solid performance without jumping to the very highest efficiency tier.

Long-Term Cost Considerations

While exact running costs depend on our electricity rate and usage habits, we can reasonably expect:

• Noticeable improvement compared to an older, outdated unit
• Steady running costs that are not excessive for a 331L capacity
• Additional savings from Total No Frost, which helps maintain efficient performance over time

If we want the absolute lowest possible energy consumption, we might look at higher‑class models. But for many of us, this C‑class rating is a fair and practical choice.

Usability and Day-to-Day Convenience

A fridge freezer is something we use multiple times a day. We notice quickly if it’s awkward or unintuitive, so we like to pay attention to convenience features.

Logical Internal Layout

We find the layout easy to understand and use:

• Multiple shelves and drawers give structure
• Door racks keep everyday items visible
• Crisper drawer with humidity control supports fresh produce

This kind of internal design helps us keep our food organised rather than crammed, which reduces waste and makes daily cooking smoother.

Easy Cleaning and Maintenance

Total No Frost already makes things easier, but the general interior design should also help with cleaning:

• Flat shelves are usually quick to wipe down
• Removable drawers allow for a deeper clean when needed
• Reduced moisture helps prevent spills from becoming stubborn stains

We appreciate anything that saves us time and effort, and this model is clearly built with low‑maintenance ownership in mind.

Hygiene and Food Safety

Food hygiene is central to any fridge freezer’s purpose. We’re storing items that we eat every day, so we want to feel confident that they’re kept in the best possible conditions.

Reduced Bacteria Growth and Odors

By regulating temperature and humidity, and preventing frost build‑up, this fridge freezer helps:

• Slow bacteria growth on stored food
• Minimise cross‑contamination risk when we store foods properly
• Reduce unpleasant lingering smells inside the compartment

We still need to maintain good food practices—like sealing raw meat and separating ready‑to‑eat foods—but the appliance itself supports us in doing that.

Fresher Food for Longer

The combination of:

• Total No Frost
• Electronic temperature control
• Humidity‑controlled crisper

means that many of our items stay fresh and appetising for a longer time. We can keep fruits and vegetables crisp, dairy products within safe limits, and leftovers tasting close to how they did on day one.

We like that this not only keeps us safer but also helps us cut down on waste, which is better for both our budget and the environment.

Installation and Space Planning

Before we choose any large appliance, we always think about where it will go and how easy it will be to fit.

Dimensions and Placement

With H 185cm x W 60cm x D 65cm, we should measure our available space carefully. We need to allow for:

• Sufficient clearance at the sides and back for air circulation
• Room for the doors to open fully without hitting walls or counters
• Enough space in front for us to stand and access shelves and drawers comfortably

We find it helpful to mock up door swing space with a tape measure before ordering, just to be sure it will function smoothly in our actual kitchen layout.

Weight and Handling

At 66kg, this unit is solid but not unreasonably heavy for a full‑size fridge freezer. We still need:

• Two people to move and position it safely
• Care when manoeuvring in tight corridors or staircases
• To follow safety advice, such as keeping it upright during transport

We like to plan the delivery route in advance so there are no surprises on the day we bring it into the house.

Warranty and After-Sales Support

We always feel more reassured when a manufacturer stands behind their product with a decent guarantee.

Up to 2-Year Guarantee

This model comes with:

• A standard 1‑year guarantee, plus
• An extra year upon registration, giving up to 2 years in total

We see this as a solid level of coverage for a fridge freezer in this price and feature range. It tells us that the manufacturer is confident enough in the product’s reliability.

Peace of Mind if Something Goes Wrong

With the guarantee in place, we know that in the unlikely event of a fault:

• We have a clear support process
• We’re not left fully out of pocket early in the product’s life
• We can contact the brand for help and resolution

We recommend registering the appliance soon after purchase so we don’t forget and accidentally miss out on the extended coverage.

Pros and Cons Summary

Sometimes it helps to lay out the strengths and possible drawbacks side by side. We find this makes our decision clearer.

We see this as a well‑rounded, everyday appliance with more strengths than compromises, especially for average to moderately busy households.

Who Is This Fridge Freezer Best For?

Once we understand what the appliance offers, we can decide if it really matches our lifestyle. We see this model as especially suitable for a few types of households.

Ideal for Small to Medium Families

For households of two to four people, this fridge freezer has:

• Enough fridge space for a full weekly food shop
• A decent freezer section for essentials and batch cooking
• Practical organisation that keeps everything accessible

We think it works particularly well if we cook frequently and rely more on fresh ingredients than on frozen convenience food.

Great for Open-Plan Kitchens and Quiet Homes

Because of the Quiet Mark approval and low noise output, this model fits well in:

• Open‑plan spaces where we cook, eat, and relax in the same area
• Small apartments where the kitchen is close to living or sleeping spaces
• Homes where we value a calm, quiet environment

We appreciate that it does its job in the background without constantly reminding us it’s running.

Suitable for Style-Conscious, Space-Conscious Homes

With its anthracite finish and 60cm width, this is a good match if we:

• Want a fridge freezer that looks modern and stylish
• Need to slot it into a standard 60cm gap
• Prefer a tall unit that maximises vertical space

We like that it brings a touch of sophistication without needing a designer kitchen to match.

Who Might Want to Consider Alternatives?

No appliance suits absolutely everyone, so it helps to be honest about where this model may not be the best fit for us.

Heavy Frozen Food Users

If we:

• Buy lots of frozen food in bulk
• Store large joints of meat, big bags of frozen goods, or multiple loaves of bread
• Batch cook in large quantities and freeze everything

we might find the 101L freezer slightly limited. In that case, a fridge freezer with a larger freezer section, or a separate chest freezer, could be a better choice.

Those Seeking Ultra-High Energy Efficiency

If our top priority is the lowest possible energy usage, we may want to look at models rated closer to the top of the energy scale (e.g., A or B where available).

While this Energy Class C unit is efficient enough for many households, it may not match the expectations of those aiming to minimise energy use at all costs.

Overall Value for Money

When we look at everything together—capacity, features, performance, and design—this fridge freezer presents itself as a well‑balanced choice for everyday use.

Features That Justify the Investment

We particularly value:

• Total No Frost for zero manual defrosting
• Quiet Mark approval for a peaceful home
• Humidity control in the crisper for longer‑lasting produce
• 4-star freezer rating for safe long‑term freezing
• Reversible door and adjustable feet for flexible installation
• Up to 2-year guarantee for added security

These features combine to make our daily life easier rather than just adding specifications on paper.

Long-Term Use and Practical Benefits

Over time, we feel the biggest advantages will be:

• Less time spent on maintenance tasks
• Less food waste due to better preservation
• Comfortable day‑to‑day use with quiet operation and organised storage

We see this model as a reliable, well‑equipped option that delivers strong practicality and comfort in real‑world conditions, rather than simply focusing on one standout feature.

Final Thoughts: Is the Russell Hobbs 60/40 C Class Fridge Freezer Right for Us?

Putting everything together, we see the Russell Hobbs Freestanding 60/40 Split C Class Fridge Freezer, 331L Total Capacity, Total No Frost, 4 Star Freezer Rating, Adjustable Feet, Reversible Door in Anthracite, RH185FF601C1AN [Energy Class C] as a thoughtful choice for households that want a balance of space, style, and convenience.

If we:

• Prefer more fridge than freezer space
• Want a quiet, low‑maintenance appliance
• Appreciate modern design with practical features like no frost, humidity control, and electronic temperature management
• Need a standard 60cm wide freestanding unit that still offers generous capacity

then this fridge freezer is likely to serve us very well in daily life.

If our habits lean heavily toward frozen food storage or we’re focused purely on top‑tier energy efficiency, we may want to compare a few alternatives. But for many of us looking for a solid, dependable, and user‑friendly fridge freezer, this Russell Hobbs model feels like a smart, reassuringly modern addition to our kitchen.

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