Element ERT74MES 8 cu. ft. Compact
Quick verdict
The Element ERT74MES 8 cu. ft. Compact is a 7.5 cu. ft. compact from Element in the budget tier. Annual energy use of 345 kWh runs about 32% below the median for compact models we've reviewed. At about $450, it sits below the median price per cubic foot for this layout. Our reviewers rate it 3.8/5 — best for small kitchen households.
Best for
- Apartments and dorms
- Offices and bars
Key specs
- Capacity
- 7.5 cu. ft.
- Dimensions
- 21.3" × 57.1" × 22.0"
- Annual energy
- 345 kWh/year
- Ice / Water
- No ice · No water
- Wi-Fi
- No
Our Review
The Element ERT74MES 8 cu. ft. Compact is a 7.5 cu. ft. compact refrigerator from Element, sitting in the sub-$1,000 range. With a 6.4 cu. ft. fresh-food compartment and 1.1 cu. ft. of freezer space, it's positioned for apartments and dorms.
What stands out
This is squarely a mainstream model — Element optimizes for value, parts availability, and a feature set that covers what most households actually use. You won't find exotic materials, but everything that ships works as advertised.
Layout and capacity
Exterior dimensions are 21.3" W × 57.1" H × 22.0" D — check your opening, especially the depth with handles extended. Total useable capacity is 7.5 cu. ft., split 6.4 fresh / 1.1 freezer.
Bottom line
The Element ERT74MES 8 cu. ft. Compact is a strong mainstream choice — most of what people actually use a fridge for, at a price that makes sense. Service parts are widely available.
Full Specs
Capacity Total capacity | 7.5 cu. ft. |
|---|---|
| Fresh-food | 6.4 cu. ft. |
| Freezer | 1.1 cu. ft. |
Dimensions Width | 21.3" |
| Height | 57.1" |
| Depth | 22.0" |
| Depth (with handles) | 24.5" |
Energy ENERGY STAR | Yes |
| Annual energy use | 345 kWh/year |
| Est. annual cost | $55 |
Features Ice maker | No |
| Water dispenser | No |
| Wi-Fi connected | No |
| Smart features | No |
| Door style | Single Door |
| Finishes available | Stainless Steel, Black Stainless Steel, Fingerprint-Resistant Stainless, White, Black |
| Noise level | — |
Pros & Cons
+Pros
- ✓Compact footprint fits dorms, bars, and offices
- ✓ENERGY STAR certified for lower annual operating cost
–Cons
- ✕No built-in ice maker on this configuration
Rating Breakdown
Where to Buy
| Retailer | Current Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Home Depot | See retailer | Shop at Home Depot |
| Best Buy | See retailer | Shop at Best Buy |
| Lowe's | See retailer | Shop at Lowe's |
Prices and availability vary by region. We may earn a commission on purchases at no cost to you — see our disclosure & methodology. Affiliate relationships do not influence ratings.
