I have very limited space and an under-counter fridge with a freezer that simply doesn't freeze food, so I really needed a small freezer. I'm a researcher by training, so I needed to do a little research before making a purchase.

First, I read about optimal temperatures for refrigeration (under 40 F) and freezing (under 0 F) on www.fsis.usda.gov. Then I read reviews on ConsumerReports.org that suggested that in general, compact freezers don't keep adequately low temperatures. After reading these 2 items, I had a lot of misgivings about purchasing such a small freezer. However, the Summit cube freezers were described by the manufacturer as having a minimum temperature of -20 C (about -4 F), as well as being approved for medical use, so I decided to take a chance.

Once I received the freezer, I placed a thermometer that goes to -40 F inside the freezer to see if it really gets as cold as promised, and it does!! I've only had the freezer for about 2 weeks now, but so far so good.

The only thing I don't like about the freezer is that the adjustable temperature control is on the back of the unit, and until I got the setting right, I had to keep pulling it out from the wall to tweak it. But, once I got it right (set at about 5 for the temperature I wanted), hopefully I'll rarely need to move it out.

Of the three cube freezers I was considering (Avanti, Haier, and Summit) the Summit was the most expensive. But given that it freezes to a true 0 F and below, I'm happy. For someone considering a cube or compact freezer purchase, I would recommend Summit.

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