Published Jul 15, 2025 2 min read

Fridge vs coolers: introduction

When the weather gets hot, everyone looks for ways to stay cool—either by keeping food fresh or by cooling down the room. Some people need a fridge to store groceries, drinks, or leftovers, while others want a cooler to stay comfortable during the day or sleep better at night. Whether you are a student living alone, a family managing daily meals, or someone working from home, choosing the right cooling appliance makes a big difference. Did you know that more than 60% of Indian households now use cooling products to handle the summer heat? If you are planning to buy one, you no longer need to worry about paying the full price at once.

With Bajaj Finserv’s financing options, you can upgrade to a fridge or cooler without using up your savings. Simply walk into one of Bajaj Finserv’s 1.5 lakh partner stores in over 4,000 cities across India, choose the model you like, and turn the cost into Easy EMIs that match your budget. On select products, you can even enjoy zero down payment, which means you can take it home without paying anything upfront. 

To make things easier, you can also check your loan eligibility online in just a few minutes—so you know how much you can borrow before you start shopping.

What is the difference between a cooler and a refrigerator

While both coolers and refrigerators help preserve food and beverages, they differ in how they work, what they store, and how long they maintain temperatures. A cooler is a portable, non-electric container that keeps contents cold using ice or gel packs for a short duration. In contrast, a refrigerator is an electrically powered appliance designed to maintain consistent low temperatures for longer periods, making it ideal for storing perishable items. Coolers are often used for short trips, picnics, or outdoor use, whereas refrigerators are used at home or commercial spaces for everyday storage.

Here is a quick comparison:

FeatureCoolerRefrigerator
Power SourceIce packs or cooling gelsElectricity
Cooling DurationShort-term (a few hours)Long-term (24/7 operation)
UsageOutdoor trips, temporary coolingDaily use, long-term food storage
PortabilityLightweight and portableStationary, large appliance
Cooling MechanismPassive coolingActive cooling using compressors

 

To understand more about cooling systems, explore direct cool vs frost free Refrigerators and the difference between fridge and refrigerator.

Fridges vs coolers- Detailed comparison of features

When deciding between a refrigerator and an air cooler, it’s important to understand their distinct functions and features. While a fridge is essential for preserving food, a cooler is designed to provide relief from heat. Here’s a quick comparison to help you make an informed choice:

FeatureRefrigeratorAir Cooler
Primary FunctionPreserves food and beveragesCools the surrounding air
Usage AreaKitchen and indoor spacesLiving areas, bedrooms, outdoor use
Cooling MechanismCompressor-based coolingWater evaporation and fan circulation
Electricity ConsumptionModerate to highGenerally low
PortabilityFixedPortable with wheels
Ideal ForFood storageHeat relief in dry climates

 

Choose based on your need—long-term food preservation or seasonal cooling.

Is a beverage cooler the same as a mini fridge

While both a beverage cooler and a mini fridge are compact appliances designed for cooling, they serve different purposes. Here is how they compare:

  • Purpose: Beverage coolers are specifically designed to store drinks at optimal serving temperatures, while mini fridges are more versatile and can store both food and drinks.
  • Temperature range: Beverage coolers usually operate at a slightly higher temperature than mini fridges, making them ideal for sodas, beer, or wine.
  • Shelving and design: Beverage coolers often have transparent glass doors and adjustable racks suited for bottles and cans, whereas mini fridges may have solid doors and dedicated food compartments.
  • Usage: Beverage coolers are commonly placed in entertainment areas, while mini fridges are better suited for dormitories or small offices needing basic refrigeration.

Select based on your requirement—choose a mini fridge for food storage or a beverage cooler for dedicated drink cooling.

Which one should you buy

The right choice between a cooler and a mini fridge depends on how and where you plan to use it.

If you need something for outdoor use—like road trips, picnics, or camping—a cooler is a good option. It is lightweight, easy to carry, and works without electricity. However, it depends on ice packs to keep things cold, which means the cooling does not last long and may not be reliable.

On the other hand, if you are looking for something for regular indoor use, a mini fridge is a better choice. It runs on electricity and keeps a steady temperature, which helps store food and drinks safely for longer. It is perfect for small spaces like bedrooms, offices, or dorm rooms.

Choose a cooler if you only need it occasionally and want something portable. But if you need to store food and drinks daily with better cooling and convenience, a mini fridge is the smarter pick.

Once you have made your decision and you are looking to buy, you can explore the latest offers on a range of electronics and appliances. This can help you secure the best deal possible.

Get refrigerators on Easy EMIs with Bajaj Finserv

Bringing home a high-performance refrigerator is now simple with Bajaj Finserv’s flexible financing options. Follow these easy steps to buy your preferred refrigerator on Easy EMIs:

  • Explore models on Bajaj Mall: Browse a wide range of single door, double door, side-by-side, or convertible refrigerators on Bajaj Mall. Compare capacity, energy ratings, cooling features, and brand offerings to find the right fit for your kitchen.
  • Visit a partner store: After shortlisting your model, visit any of Bajaj Finserv’s 1.5 lakh partner stores across 4,000 Indian cities. You can see the refrigerator in person and seek expert advice before making your decision.
  • Choose the Easy EMI Loan option: At checkout, opt for the Bajaj Finserv Easy EMI Loan. Avail financing of up to Rs. 5 lakh and convert your purchase into easy monthly instalments. Select refrigerator models may also come with zero down payment offers.
  • Check your loan eligibility online: To speed up the process, check your pre-approved loan limit online by entering your mobile number and OTP. This helps you plan better before heading to the store.
  • Use the EMI Network Card for purchases up to Rs. 3 lakh: If you have the Bajaj Finserv EMI Network Card, use it to split payments of up to Rs. 3 lakh into EMIs—no extra paperwork, no waiting.

 

 

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Frequently asked questions

How to buy fridges on EMIs?

Yes, you can purchase a fridge with Bajaj Finserv's Easy EMI options.  

 

If you are an existing user of the Bajaj Finserv EMI Network Card:  

  • Explore a wide range of fridges on Bajaj Mall.
  • Choose the preferred model and visit a Bajaj Finserv partner store to check it out in person.
  • Use your EMI Network Card and avail of Easy EMIs for affordable monthly payments.
  • Enjoy your new fridge on Easy EMIs.

 

If you do not have a card, start by checking your EMI Network Card eligibility and take the first step towards enjoying the affordability and convenience of Easy EMIs.

 

Which is the best option for summer- fridge or cooler?

Fridges are perfect for long-term food storage, while coolers are more energy-efficient for temporary cooling. Choose either with Bajaj Finserv EMIs for an affordable purchase.

What is the cost difference between fridges and coolers?

Coolers are cheaper due to simpler mechanisms, starting at Rs. 3,000, while refrigerators can cost Rs. 10,000 or more. 

How does power consumption compare for fridges and coolers?

Coolers consume less power and are efficient for short-term use. Fridges, though higher in energy use, feature advanced energy-saving mechanisms like 5-star ratings for long-term efficiency.

Are fridges or coolers better for rural areas?

Coolers suit rural areas due to affordability and minimal power usage. However, energy-efficient fridges are becoming popular with Easy EMI financing options.


 

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