What is the Difference Between a Wine Cooler and a Beverage Center?

Both wine coolers and beverage refrigerators are made to store drinks. What is the difference between a wine cooler and a beverage cooler? Should you buy a beverage center or a wine cooler? Read on to find out more.

EL-BWC30TB-S Wine Cooler & Drawer

A wine cooler is an appliance designed specifically for wine storage. Wine coolers are insulated units that contain wine racking and a cooling system. Wine thrives in a stable, cool environment of around 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Wine fridges are made to keep these conditions. Additionally, wine refrigerators have LED interior lighting, a digital temperature control panel, glass or solid doors, locks, and charcoal filters that prevent odors and help to maintain humidity. Wine coolers may be designed with one or two independent temperature zones that can be used to keep different varietals at their ideal storage or serving temperatures. Wine coolers are available in varying sizes and can hold a few bottles or hundreds.

A beverage center or beverage cooler is an appliance designed to store drinks. Like a food refrigerator, beverage fridges are insulated, sealed, and have a cooling system. The storage system inside a beverage cooler consists of wire racking or flat, tempered glass shelves. Standard features of beverage centers include LED interior lighting, a digital temperature control panel, glass or solid doors, and locks. Many drinks can be stored inside beverage coolers, including beer, water, sports drinks, and juice. Some beverage centers are designed with multiple independent temperature zones, allowing you to store beverages and wine. The temperature range between beverage and wine coolers is similar, between 41 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit.

While wine and beverage coolers may look similar, there are a few distinct differences:

• Size: Wine coolers are generally larger than beverage centers as some are made to store hundreds of bottles. Beverage coolers are usually made to fit under the kitchen counter or bar.
• Shelving: Wine coolers are designed specifically for wine storage; therefore, the shelves are made to cradle each wine bottle securely. Beverage coolers typically have flat or wire shelves to hold various bottles or cans. Combination wine and beverage coolers will have both styles of racking.
• Door swing: Some beverage centers are designed like drawers, while most wine coolers open and close like a kitchen refrigerator.
• Indoor/Outdoor: Select beverage coolers are made for outdoor use. Wine coolers are not typically made for outdoor use as UV rays can damage wine.

You may be trying to decide between a wine or beverage cooler. If you only need to store wine, then a wine refrigerator is a wise investment for your collection. If you need to store a variety of beverages in addition to wine, then a beverage cooler is a smart choice. If you have any questions about beverage centers or wine fridges, contact the experts at Vinotemp using our Contact Form.