15 Best Under Counter Wine Coolers For Small Spaces In 2023: Reviews & Buying Guide
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Adding the best under counter wine cooler to your home bar has become a luxury for even the most contemporary drinkers. It has become a popular impulse buy for new wine collectors, which may be disappointing if not contemplated thoroughly.
With that being said, this article will walk you through the best under counter wine fridges and the essential points to remember before buying one.
Our Top Picks for the Best Under Counter Wine Cooler
 
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Best Overall - Antarctic Star Under Counter Wine Cooler• Holds up to 28 bottles |
Best Capacity - Kalamera Dual Zone Under Counter Wine Fridge• Accommodates big bottles |
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Best Value - NutriChef Under Counter Wine Cooler• Holds up to 15 bottles |
1. NutriChef Under Counter Wine Cooler
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What Customers Have To Say
Following the first four days of her purchase, a customer comments how quietly the cooler runs, as she can only hear it if she listens closely. Another customer said that after turning it to its initial temperature of 75º, it automatically cooled down to 53º. And another Amazon customer says it’s a perfect size, minimal, and looks sweet in their bar.
Why We Think It’s Great
The NutriChef 15-Bottle Wine Cooler Refrigerator is an entry-level cooler for new wine collectors. How could you possibly resist its contoured, polished chrome wine racks?
Its sleek design is not only versatile, but it also contains a child safety auto-lock – to prevent kids from tampering with the temperature controls.
It also comes with a built-in compressor cooling technology with an adjustable temperature setting of 41-64° F, so you can control the exact temperature that your bottles need. To change the temperature, you only need to press the digital touch-button display, whether for Celsius or Fahrenheit.
Another great feature offered by Nutrichef is the glassdoor’s airtight lock and seal, which ensures that the temperature remains cool for the long term. Plus, the internal forced air circulation provides sufficient cooling throughout the fridge despite being opened regularly.
Who Should Buy It
This sophisticated mini-fridge is particularly a wine-saver around the restless hands of toddlers, but its impressive black color deserves a place in all modern-day households.
2. Kalamera Under Counter Wine Fridge
| Pros | Cons |
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What Customers Have To Say
A customer comments that the company actually cares, and the wine cooler fits their former trash compactor exactly. Another customer says it is very quiet and works perfectly for storing her red and white wines. However, the shelves are too close to fit anything but the slimmest bottles.
Why We Think It’s Great
The Kalamera 15-Inch Wine Refrigerator Cooler is a spacious wine fridge with a double-layered glass door. Aside from its notably low noise and low vibrations features, this product boasts a large storage capacity. Its double-layered temperature glass doors prevent it from fogging up to keep that perfect view of your prized alcohol collection.
This cooler boasts its automatic defrosting function that works every 6 hours to maintain the cool temperature in every bottle. It also has a memory function that restores the temperature from a power outage. This way, the wines can maintain their quality compared to when exposed to constant varying temperatures.
Furthermore, the advanced technology of this machine has a low vibration and low noise compressor that keeps the wine sediment undisturbed, so the bottles will remain fresh and crisp and will not have a bitter taste. Plus, you would also love to know that this cooler has an embedded carbon filter that protects the inside from odors.
Who Should Buy It
This best under counter wine fridge is perfect for those with a wine collection consisting of slimmer bottles and less of the Pinot and Champagne type, as these are too big to fit.
3. Antarctic Star Under Counter Wine Cooler
| Pros | Cons |
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What Customers Have To Say
One Amazon customer stated that its craftsmanship was worth noting, and the unit easily slid in place in her home and ran like a champ. Moreover, another customer commented that this cooler looked extremely attractive with its removable shelves – plus, the customer service was excellent.
Why We Think It’s Great
The Antarctic Star 15-Inch Wine Cooler has an active charcoal air purifier keeping your wine corks fresh. Not to mention, its wooden shelves could nicely match your furniture. It also has a frost-free stainless steel door with a double-layered tempered glass window for that extra sophisticated and elegant look.
But the most premium feature of all is its active charcoal filter to ensure air purity for your corks. Since wines are delicate liquor, you need to preserve their quality and taste by placing them in the ideal environment. The charcoal filter makes sure that the machine has efficient cooling and is odor-free. Plus, the double-paned tempered glass window protects your bottles from the harmful UV rays and sudden temperature shifts from the external heat.
Who Should Buy It
Given its amazing features, this cooler packs a punch and is a must for any wine aficionado. Nevertheless, this would undoubtedly delight those who prioritize its space-saving size and energy-efficient system.
4. Aobosi Under Counter Beverage & Wine Cooler
| Pros | Cons |
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What Customers Have To Say
A wine enthusiast loves the cooler. He is impressed by how quietly it runs and adores its dual temperature control bays, allowing him to store his wine and other drinks.
Meanwhile, another wine-lover shared that the product looks well-designed and feels sturdy. Albeit, she found a sharp edge inside the cooler and had to hammer it down.
Why We Think It’s Great
The Aobosi 24-inch Beverage and Wine Cooler is multi-purpose refreshment storage. It boasts one of the most advanced temperature controls in the market. You can control the dual zones independently without affecting the temperature of the beverage cooler area.
Its dual-zone feature and adjustable shelves can personally be tailored to your drinks for premium quality. The cooler is designed to fit canned beverages on the left and wine bottles on the right side. So, you can free up some space in your refrigerator and transfer your bottled or canned beverages to this cooler. The racks on both zones are also adjustable so that you can fit in large-sized drinks.
Moreover, the high-efficiency circulation fans ensure that cold air is distributed evenly inside the machine and maintained despite varying climates. Plus, each zone is equipped with LED lights that add an elegant aesthetic to emphasize your beautiful bottles and cans.
Who Should Buy It
This 2-in-1 beverage and wine cooler would be an excellent investment for small-time convenience owners. Or if you invite people in for game night frequently or stock up a variety of refreshments per usual – you’ll get the most of this splurge.
5. KUPPET Under Counter Wine Cooler
| Pros | Cons |
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What Customers Have To Say
A customer is convinced that this under counter wine cooler is of amazing value. She likes that it looks modern and sleek and how the shelves can be adjusted based on your need.
Why We Think It’s Great
Its exquisite matte black finish matches any kitchen environment or bar. Notice that its door handle isn’t visible in the front, which adds to its modern aesthetic. Best of all, several customers highlight its easy controls for ensuring consistent temperatures. On top of that, this cooler uses environmentally friendly compressor refrigeration, which has a faster cooling mechanism compared to traditional thermoelectric cooling.
It can also store a whooping 36 bottles of your favorite wines without them bumping into each other. You can also keep your cans of beers and other beverages in this cooler as the racks can be removed and adjusted accordingly. Plus, with an operating sound of 35db, you won’t have to worry about your sleep getting disrupted, as this machine has a quiet motor.
Who Should Buy It
Its sophisticated design earns a spot in any contemporary wine connoisseurs’ home – chilling his or her stash to perfection.
6. Phiestina Dual Zone Under Counter Wine Cooler
| Pros | Cons |
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What Customers Have To Say
One Amazon customer claimed that the product fitted perfectly between two cabinets. This customer was impressed by the unit’s general durability and the weight of the door. Another pleased customer was glad that his purchase arrived promptly and mentioned that the cooler had a very solid feel.
Why We think this is a great product:
The Phiestina 15-Inch Dual Zone Wine Cooler is durable and has a solid feel to it. With its adjustable shelves, there are no limitations. You can fit virtually any type of drink – from wines, colas, champagnes, and sparkling waters at dual temperatures! Also, its front vent prevents heat from building up in the cooler and is disguised in a kick plate design.
It also boasts a high-tech compressor and air duct system that makes the unit as quiet as possible. Without any disturbing noise, the air reaches all the corners of the machine and ensures that each bottle receives the optimum cool temperature. This cooler is also portable, with its adjustable and removable shelves to fit numerous bottles and cans.
The inside wall also has a stopper on each side that prevents the wines from moving and falling. The shelves are also designed in a way that encourages maximum storage despite the limited space. Plus, the handles are non-slip and ergonomically designed for a comfortable grip.
Who Should Buy It
This under counter wine cooler is excellent for wine collectors who own most red and white wines, fully maximizing its dual-zone controls.
7. N’FINITY PRO HDX Under Counter Wine Fridge
| Pros | Cons |
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What Customers Have To Say
A customer shared that the unit is attractive and comprises multiple shelves. As for its con, he says the cooler tends to be loud and make strange noises.
Another customer reviewed that the dimensions listed were precise, but one must be aware that you need a dedicated 15-amp power outlet for it to function.
Why We Think It’s Great
Given away by its name, the N’FINITY PRO HDX encapsulates professional quality in its entire operational system. Aside from its massive storage capacity, this “center” houses an energy-efficient compressor certified by the ETL – saving 25% less energy than its competition. However, despite the energy-saving feature, the cooler offers top-of-the-line cooling technology for all your wine bottles.
This wine refrigerator retails for over $1000, a splurge not everyone is keen on. If you’re way serious about the ambiance of your home bar or game room – then look no further. This product is all the luxury you need to take it to the next level.
Who Should Buy It
This wine refrigerator retails for over $1000, a splurge not everyone is keen on. If you’re way serious about the ambiance of your home bar or game room – then look no further. This product is all the luxury you need to take it to the next level.
8. NutriChef Thermoelectric Under Counter Wine Cooler
| Pros | Cons |
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What Customers Have To Say
A satisfied buyer commended this under counter wine fridge for its compact build, bringing up the fact that its stainless steel features match the rest of his kitchen appliances.
Another shopper said the product maintains an accurate temperature for a reasonable price point. However, it only fits traditionally sized 750ml bottles.
Why We Think It’s Great
The NutriChef 12-Bottle Wine Cooler is complete with its compact structure, a great entry-level fridge for any new wine enthusiast. Its smooth, glossy, and contoured chrome shelves add a decorative touch and elegance to the monochrome scheme. While smaller than its competitors, you will not fall short of its capacity to hold 12 bottles. The cooler features space-saving horizontal shelves, as well as vertical space to accommodate standing wine bottles.
Moreover, once plugged in, it cools immediately, and the temperature will drop automatically once the inside has already reached its ideal temperature. Also, the door closes and seals without any chance of air coming in and out of the machine. Plus, even if the cooler is being opened frequently, the bottles still maintain their cool temperature.
Who Should Buy It
If you’re hesitant about investing in a costly wine cooler, this is probably your safest option. As the reviews speak for themselves, this product delivers excellent quality for a fair price point.
9. Whynter Thermoelectric Under Counter Wine Fridge
| Pros | Cons |
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What Customers Have To Say
Even after a year, a customer reported that the fridge is still going strong! Another customer is in love with the product, highlighting its classy and straightforward features as it is situated in her kitchen pantry.
To the dismay of another customer, bigger bottle brands hardly fit. He somehow managed to squeeze them in, but retrieving them was the tricky part.
Why We Think It’s Great
The Whynter 20-Bottle Thermoelectric Wine Cooler has a UV-protection tinted door design that ensures the wine’s best quality. Its simple and elegant features are worth it, like the stylish black-tinted mirror glass door, which matches any kitchen or bar area.
It also has vibration-free thermoelectric cooling that equally distributes the air inside to maximize the cool temperature. The racks are also stable enough to hold the bottles safe, and the only moving parts are the fans to circulate cool air within the cooler and dissipate warm air outside the machine.
You won’t have to worry whether you are staying in a hot country or during summer since the cooler can maintain the temperature for the wines to remain in their optimal coolness.
Who Should Buy It
The obscurity of the tinted door isn’t for displaying your collection proudly. Instead, this cooler is perfect for customers who plan to store their wine in more enclosed spaces like the pantry - especially since it has no lock to prevent the kids from accessing it.
10. Kalamera Dual Zone Under Counter Wine Fridge
| Pros | Cons |
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What Customers Have To Say
A customer was happy with her purchase, as she thought the cooler had great value for its price. Its blue LED lighting imbues a cool effect on the wine fridge, and that the unit functions more silently than his previous cooler.
Another customer reported that its dual-zone temperature was spot on after having checked with a thermometer.
Why We Think It’s Great
This particular Kalamera model is the #1 Bestseller under the Built-in Wine cellars category. It has a stainless steel frame with two layers of tempered glass that keeps the temperature on-point and avoids fogging. It also has an automatic defrosting mechanism that works every six hours.
Compared to a similar brand, this unit holds more wines at an approximate 45-bottle capacity. It doesn’t matter whether you are storing champagne or the classic reds.
The removable and adjustable racks of the wine cooler can accommodate varying sizes of your wines. Since it is also freestanding, you can just place it anywhere you want without the need to construct a special cabinet or area.
Who Should Buy It
This elegant, state-of-the-art wine cooler earns the right to be in every wine lover’s home bar. Its advanced temperature controls do what it does best – crisping your rich alcohol collection.
11. NewAir Under Counter Wine Cooler
| Pros | Cons |
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What Customers Have To Say
Based on its price point, one buyer is pleased with the product and its ability to maintain cool temperature levels. As for the noise he addresses, it won’t run completely silent. Similarly, another buyer highly recommends it – highlighting its decent size and easily adjustable shelves. And one more buyer mentioned it is best for tight areas.
Why We Think It’s Great
If you need a space-saving cooler, the NewAir Beverage Cooler is for you! Wine aside, stock up on all your favorite refreshments with this cooler! Its multi-functional purpose is backed up with seven custom thermostat settings - chilling as low as 37ºF.
You would love its 126-bottle capacity that is not only intended to be used on storing drinks but even your lunch or snacks! Its wide and spacious mini shelves can carry your plates, bowls, and other containers!
This cooler also boasts of its insulated double-paned glass door that keeps your drinks and food cold enough to maintain its freshness and quality. Since it can act as a mini-refrigerator, you can bring this whenever you go outdoors, like for a quick getaway or camping with your family and friends.
Who Should Buy It
The New Air Beverage Refrigerator is essentially a mini-fridge not limited to wine collectors alone. It’s a space-saving cooler that will perfectly suit anyone living in small offices, small kitchens, small bars – and even under small budgets! Ha!
12. Antarctic Star Under Counter Wine Cooler
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What Customers Have To Say
Contrary to the product description, a customer reviews that the cooler does not offer an LED touch temperature or light controls on the front door. On the other hand, another customer is attracted to its elegant look, as it compliments their home bar. And one more customer reveals that it has lots of shelving options suitable for storing beers, sodas, and water.
Why We Think It’s Great
The Antarctic Star 26- Bottle Wine Cooler has a sleek bestseller with a futuristic purple glare. Boasting its #1 Bestseller title under the freestanding wine cellar category on Amazon, this product’s subtle purple light display is mesmerizing and soft on the eyes.
In addition to the outstanding features, this wine cooler works quickly to cool your cans and bottles in just a few hours. It is crucial specifically in situations where you have friends over for a party. It would ruin the mood to serve your beverages warm, right?
Who Should Buy It
It is worth pointing out that this product works as a freestanding unit only. But it’s still an incredible wine cooler overall, especially for those scorching hot summer days.
13. Ivation Under Counter Wine Cooler
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What Customers Have To Say
One Amazon customer is delighted with the product. The only complaint brought up was that its interior light stays on for a maximum of ten minutes – thus, it won’t showcase the bottles inside. Several more reviews complemented its sleek and minimal aesthetic.
Why We Think It’s Great
The Ivation 18-Bottle Compressor Wine Cooler has a sleek and minimal aesthetic. Unlike other built-in locks, this product comes with not one but two actual keys to secure your cooler.
Its glass door is also equipped with double-paned glass that protects your wines from harmful UV rays. Plus, the reinforced rubber gasket ensures that there is always an airtight seal every time the door closes.
Even better, non-American buyers will no longer have trouble configuring its temperature controls as it can be set in both Fahrenheit and Celsius! It just proves how international this cooler can be. You would also love that it can fit most 750 ml bottles and even house bigger Champagnes through its removable racks.
Who Should Buy It
This product will satisfy owners of exceptional vintage wines with its unprecedented compressor system, preserving its aged flavors and aromas with optimal grace.
14. Aobosi Stainless Steel Under Counter Wine Fridge
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What Customers Have To Say
A customer reviewed that the product is just as advertised – cools down quickly, runs quietly, and the shelves slide out smoothly for your perusal. Another Amazon customer describes it as beautiful and well-made, especially with the LED light. Similarly, one more amazon customer mentioned that you could get it running immediately.
Why We Think It’s Great
The Aobosi 15-inch Wine Cooler has advanced temperature controls that are restored after power loss. Plus, its dual-zone configurations create a home for both wines – the upper compartment for sweet white wine or sparkling champagne and the lower shelf for rich, red wine.
If you are tired of the usual silver and black wine racks on most coolers, this brand incorporated wooden shelves, adding more depth and rustic vibe to the appliance.
It also ensures that despite the varying and constant temperature and moisture changes in the external areas, it can maintain the optimum temperature needed to keep the wine bottles fresh. Plus, the high-quality compressor of the cooler ensures that your drinks will cool much faster.
Who Should Buy It
This industrial-inspired piece of machinery can be the focal point in any wine lover’s bar. It will fancy red and white wine collectors due to its dual-zone temperature.
15. KUPPET Under Counter Wine Fridge
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What Customers Have To Say
An enthusiastic customer confessed that he is in love with the product as it looks super sleek in his kitchen and stays incredibly chilled at all times. Another customer adds that it stores almost any bottle of wine.
Why We Think It’s Great
KUPPET Wine cooler is your best bet if you are the type to collect or drink only a few bottles. Compared to other brands and models, this one features a 19-bottle capacity, ideal for families who are not really into wines but still want to have a cooler to keep a few bottles.
It boasts curved metal shelves that make it easier to remove the bottles. Also, you can easily access the soft-digital panel to lock the desired temperature for the wine cooler. The design also ensures that the cooling mechanism is maintained despite the constant opening and closing of the door.
Who Should Buy It
Its compressor is worth checking out by environmentally conscious wine enthusiasts. However, this product is probably not advisable for those living in studios or small apartments, as its blue LED light is not easy on the eyes.
Best Under Counter Wine Cooler Buying Guide
Here are the things you need to consider before buying an under counter wine fridge:
Type
Wine coolers are produced in a variety of types, which may seem overwhelming to the new collector. Here are the six basic types of wine coolers explained based on their placement and cooling system to help you get clear on your specific expectations for it:
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Freestanding
This type of wine cooler is designed to stand on its own. It can be placed nearly anywhere, and its exhaust is typically located at the back.
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Built-in
These wine coolers are smaller than the previous and are meant to be installed under the counter or between cabinets in the kitchen; it consists of front ventilation.
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Thermoelectric
Without getting too technical, this wine cooler works according to the Peltier effect – wherein a current flows through the junctions of two conductors, and heat dissipates via one junction, causing it to cool. It is more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly.
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Compressor
A compressor cooling system operates as a refrigerator, with the use of a compressor and refrigerant. It is a good choice for more extensive collections and warmer rooms.
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Single-zone
This wine cooler has only one temperature configuration, keeping the temperature uniform in all parts of the cooler.
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Dual-zone
Unlike a single-zone cooler, this can maintain two temperatures within the cooler, suitable for simultaneously storing two kinds of wine.
Noise and Vibration
These two factors are often neglected by entry-level buyers, although they are equally as important to consider.
How much noise the cooler generates can be a major turn-off, especially when guests are around, as it ruins the ambiance. As for vibration, this can disturb the wine sediments and deteriorate the drink’s quality and taste.
Position of Air Vent
If you plan on installing the cooler under the counter, you must be wary of where the air vent is positioned.
Front ventilation is heavily advised for a cooler that you intend on boxing in, as it dissipates the heat with no problem. On the other hand, back ventilation may cause the cooler to overwork and die faster, as the heat cannot flow.
Storage Capacity
Look over your current wine collection - observing the different-sized bottles and all. Be realistic when determining how much space you'll need to fit each one comfortably – overestimating this may result in a waste of space and power consumption. Standard under-counter coolers provide room for 10-30 bottles.
Special Features
Depending on your preferences, there are tons of special features companies offer in their products.
Some examples of these are adjustable racks, UV-protected glass doors, built-in locks, charcoal air purifiers, and automatic defrost functions – whatever you fancy. Don’t miss out on these by remembering to read each product’s description first carefully!
Under Counter Wine Fridge FAQ
1. Why are wine coolers so expensive?
The wine cooling market is a niche, so it doesn't retain much competition to lower its prices. Many view this as a hindrance to the product's innovation.
2. Can you put a freestanding wine cooler under the counter?
No, a freestanding wine cooler typically has its air vent in the back to dissipate the heat. Installing it under the counter, between cabinets, or directly against a wall causes it to overwork its system to maintain the cool temperature.
However, this can be possible if you allow enough space around the unit for the heat to flow out - consider a gap of 2-3 inches at all sides. It may not provide a built-in effect, yet, it should allow you to save your space and money.
3. How do you install an under-counter wine cooler?
Before the installation, check for the cooler's dimensions and power requirements to ensure compatibility. Don't forget to consider the maximum depth with the door open, or else it'll be completely useless! To install the cooler - gather your tools and follow these instructions:
- Disassemble the cabinet door.
- Saw cabinet based on required measurements of the cabinet.
- Double-check measurements with a measuring tape.
- Sand rough edges of the cabinet.
- Ensure the floor is clean and dry.
- Position the cooler inside the cabinet and make sure it is leveled (use shims or leveling feet if needed).
- Arrange racks in the cooler as desired.
- Wait for at least 2 hours before plugging it in.
4. Where do you put wine coolers?
Depending on its exhaust position, wine coolers can typically be placed anywhere for as long as it isn't exposed to direct sunlight or extreme heat. Most commonly, wine coolers are put in the kitchen, entertainment room, cellar, dining room, and basement. Wherever makes sense to you, put it there.
5. Do under-counter coolers need ventilation?
Provided that the cooler is designed to be built-in or installed, most under-counter coolers would not need ventilation as its exhaust is located at the front - allowing the air to flow freely. This will prevent the cooler from overheating and ruining your wines.
Conclusion
Under counter wine coolers do an excellent job at keeping your wine collection in optimum conditions. Remember that not all wine coolers are made the same, so be sure to do your research to get the best bang for your buck. To further enhance your wine-drinking experience, you may also like to check out the best wine accessories.
The winner of this roundup is the Antarctic Star Under Counter Wine Cooler. It can hold up to 28 bottles, and it comes with a pull-out shelf.
Meanwhile, the runner-ups are the Kalamera Dual Zone Under Counter Wine Fridge and NutriChef Under Counter Wine Cooler for their aesthetically pleasing design and fast cooling mechanism.
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