How many watts does a mini fridge use — and what can run it?

The representative model is the MicroFridge 3.1MF7-7A1, a combination unit; the figures cover its refrigerator section only. Unlike most fridge makers, MicroFridge publishes all three numbers on its spec sheet: 1.3 operating amps (156 W), 4.5 start-up amps (540 W) and 195 kWh a year (22 W average). The sheet lists a 115 V supply, and the site multiplies amps by 120 V, so the watt figures lean slightly high — the cautious direction for runtime.

What changes the draw

The compressor cycles with the thermostat. A warm room, a cold setting, frequent opening and restocking with warm drinks all lengthen the cycles; the annual figure averages them over a year.

Why the starting draw matters

For an instant at each start, the compressor draws about three and a half times its running current here (540 W against 156 W). A small station must cover that peak as well as the running draw; the two smallest stations on the site fail on both counts. Where a maker publishes no peak figure, the table marks the station "no peak figure" and the start cannot be checked. The rule is on the methodology page.

Reading the tables

"Runtime at 156 W" assumes the compressor never stops; "At average draw" uses 22 W. Example: the EcoFlow RIVER 3 Plus record has no maker factor, so the default 0.85 applies: 286 Wh × 0.85 ÷ 22 W = 11.0 hours. The Jackery Explorer 300, with Jackery's own 0.85 factor, gives 292 × 0.85 ÷ 22 = 11.3 hours.