With summer around the corner, major appliance retailers are slashing prices on refrigerators by 10-40% to cater to consumer shopping needs. However, this year's economic difficulties due to the ongoing pandemic have resulted in high-end models like large capacity refrigerators and side by side fridges still being out of reach for many budgets, leading to a situation of 'deeply discounted fridges but STILL no buyers'.
1. Trends in refrigerator purchases in 2022
According to a survey conducted by the price comparison website Mytour.vn, the demand for refrigerators among consumers remains steady, primarily focusing on the following categories:
- Affordable refrigerators
- Refrigerators under 300 liters
- Refrigerators with under-door ice compartments
- Refrigerators with soft freeze compartments
- Energy-saving refrigerators, mostly traditional 2-door models familiar to many.
Popular refrigerator brands recommended by consumers include Panasonic, Hitachi, Sharp, Beko, Casper, and more.
2. Top 3 budget-friendly energy-efficient refrigerators under $200 worth buying in 2022
To assist consumers in choosing a satisfactory and comprehensive refrigerator that aligns with current trends and fits their budget can be challenging. Hence, this article aims to help you focus on finding the perfect refrigerator based on three main criteria: energy-efficient refrigerators with a capacity under 300 liters and priced under 9 million VND for your reference and selection.
2.1 Sharp inverter refrigerator SJ-X281E-SL 253 liters, 2 doors – Price reference: 5.3 – 6.7 million VND/unit
Among all the trending brands chosen by consumers, Sharp takes the top spot as it offers affordable prices suitable for most Vietnamese consumers. The quality of Sharp refrigerators has been affirmed in terms of food preservation, ice making, and durability lasting up to 10 years.
Around 6-7 years ago, the cheapest Sharp refrigerator was priced at around 3.5 million VND/unit for a refrigerator under 200 liters. In this capacity segment, you'll now need to budget around 4 – 4.7 million VND/unit. Given the current market conditions and rising fuel prices, refrigerator prices have increased significantly. However, this price range is already optimized considering the quality that this refrigerator provides.
In the Sharp refrigerator segment under 300 liters for 3-4 users, the Sharp Inverter 253 liter SJ-X281E-DS model stands out. It was first introduced to the market in 2016 and manufactured in Thailand, but due to its popularity, it continues to be produced anew. It's important to note to look for models manufactured between 2020 – 2021 and not older models from 2016 despite being cheaper.

The advantage of this model lies in its affordability and energy efficiency, consuming only ~ 0.67 kW/day – making it one of the most energy-efficient refrigerators available today. Additionally, it lacks modern features like soft freezing or automatic ice making. Nevertheless, it's suitable for families with basic needs. At a fundamental level, the Sharp SJ-X281E-DS 253 liter refrigerator is definitely a cost-effective option worth considering.
2.2 Panasonic NR-TV261BPKV 234-liter Inverter Refrigerator – Price reference: 7.3 – 8.7 million VND/unit
For the closest match to your sub-9-million budget, opting for the Panasonic Inverter 234-liter NR-TV261BPKV refrigerator introduced in 2021 would be a solid choice. Depending on the seller, you can purchase this product for as low as 7.3 – 8.7 million VND. Even with any type of discount, it won't go below 7 million.

A significant advantage of this Panasonic NR-TV261BPKV 234-liter model is its belonging to the new generation of antibacterial refrigerators equipped with Blue Ag+ antibacterial technology. This technology utilizes silver Ag+ crystals and blue light to effectively deactivate and limit the growth of bacteria, mold, etc., up to 99.99%. This helps reduce unpleasant odors and ensures clean and safe air inside the refrigerator, protecting the health of the entire household.
Another major advantage of this Panasonic 234-liter NR-TV261BPKV refrigerator model is its energy-saving capability, consuming only ~ 0.92 kW/day. Additionally, other basic features are no different from previous Panasonic refrigerator models.
2.3 Samsung Inverter 236-liter RT22M4032BU/SV Refrigerator – Price reference: 6.1 – 8 million VND
If you're seeking a soft freeze compartment refrigerator below 9 million VND, then the Samsung Inverter 236-liter RT22M4032BU/SV refrigerator would be an excellent suggestion.
Samsung RT22M4032BU/SV 236-liter refrigerator is a top freezer refrigerator with a soft freeze compartment at -1°C, ensuring freshness of perishables like fresh meat and fish for 1-3 days without needing to defrost before cooking.

Another advantage of this 236-liter Samsung refrigerator model is its large vegetable compartment, allowing ample storage for fresh vegetables and fruits. Its electricity consumption is approximately ~0.97 kW/day. Additionally, it doesn't offer any other special features.
Due to its soft freeze compartment feature, this product is priced above 9 million VND in many places. However, there are also many places selling older models for under 6 million VND – be cautious to get the best deal for this Samsung soft freeze compartment refrigerator at a recommended price of over 6.1 million VND.
Above are the TOP 3 budget-friendly energy-efficient refrigerators under 9 million dong worth considering in 2022 as suggested by Mytour.vn. Hopefully, these practical suggestions can help you easily find the most suitable refrigerator for your family!