Best refrigerators brand: The Best Refrigerator Brands of 2022
The Best Refrigerator Brands of 2022
We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more›
- Appliances
- Large Home Appliances
Photo: GE
Product recall
GE has issued a recall of six French-door refrigerator models because the freezer handle may detach and pose a fall hazard to someone pulling the freezer door open. We have updated this guide with a note about the recall.
Most refrigerators work fine. And fridges come in so many different looks and layouts that we can’t pick the “best” ones. But based on a survey of more than 5,000 Wirecutter readers and an AI-assisted analysis of 28,000 customer reviews, we can give you guidance on how to find the fridge that’s right for you.
-
Reader survey
We asked 5,000-plus readers how satisfied they are with their fridges and the appliances’ reliability, as well as which features matter.
-
Review analysis
We used an AI-powered analysis tool to scan 28,000-plus customer reviews across 34 fridge models for complaints and praise.
-
Expert interviews
We spoke to several industry experts, including brand representatives, dealers, and repair technicians.
-
Showroom visits
We haven’t done rigorous hands-on testing of any fridges in this guide, but we have touched most models we mention here at appliance showrooms.
Read more
LG refrigerators seem to make the most owners the happiest, at least among major-brand models, which usually cost less than $4,000. Whirlpool and GE are pretty good, too. Among the most popular fridge styles, the French-door design (with half-width fridge doors and a pull-out bottom freezer) is the most beloved type. And shallower, counter-depth fridges are big enough for most households.
Beyond that, it’s complicated and mostly a matter of homing in on what fits your space and budget, followed by a bunch of other individual preferences.
We’ll walk you through some of the major choices you need to make, and we’ll point out some of the brands, designs, and features that real-world owners tend to like. This guide will be most useful for people who are shopping for a full-size, freestanding refrigerator that costs up to $4,000.
The research
- Why you should trust us
- How to pick a fridge
- LG: The major brand with the highest satisfaction
- GE: Somewhat better customer service
- Whirlpool: Fewer bells and whistles, fewer complaints about bad reliability
- Other major brands
- What about a budget pick?
- What do you get when you pay more for a fridge?
- Why are so many fridges out of stock?
- Door styles: French-doors lead in popularity and satisfaction
- What about counter-depth fridges?
- Reliability: Hope for the best
- Efficiency and sustainability: Much better than they used to be
Why you should trust us
Our advice is based mostly on two big fact-finding projects we conducted to collect feedback from people who use refrigerators and then quantify and analyze that feedback.
We did not physically test any refrigerators for this guide, but we think that our extensive research actually helped us identify important trends that we never would have found with testing alone.
Our first major research project was a survey of Wirecutter readers, with more than 5,000 completed responses. This survey gave us solid data on overall satisfaction by brand and door style, an idea of the refrigerator features that make the most people the happiest, and some info about refrigerator reliability.
This survey wasn’t perfectly representative: For example, top-freezer refrigerators were massively underrepresented in our sample (10%) compared with their popularity in the US (40% of all full-size fridges sold in 2021, according to statistics provided by the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers). And we collected statistically significant data on only seven or so brands (out of dozens). But we’re confident that the survey results point toward some broader truths about the category, particularly among the best-selling styles and brands.
(Massive, massive thanks to Wirecutter user research lead Raquel Hamias, who conducted the survey for us and crunched the results into usable numbers.)
The other major source of information was an analysis of 28,000 customer reviews on Home Depot’s site, across 34 different refrigerator models from all the major brands and spanning door types and prices, conducted with the aid of an artificial-intelligence-driven tool called FindOurView. Though this analysis looked at only a small fraction of all the fridges that are available, it gave us loads of detail about the features that owners appreciate most, as well as some idea of the things that specific models do particularly well or poorly. (For example, the platform helped us quickly figure out which LG fridges are especially prone to problems with their cooling systems.)
Our extensive research actually helped us identify important trends that we never would have found with testing alone.
We also read a slew of other refrigerator reviews, info about reliability, and guides on how to pick and install fridges.
For previous versions of this guide, we also spoke to several industry experts, including brand representatives, dealers, and repair technicians.
To be very clear: We haven’t done any hands-on refrigerator testing of our own. That’s largely because of logistics and pandemic protocols, and because there’s simply not a ton to glean objectively from hands-on use. We have, however, touched most of the fridges we mention in this guide at appliance showrooms—we’ve yanked the handles and wiggled the shelves and so on.
This guide doesn’t have all the answers. We haven’t yet done as much research as we would like into topics such as built-in fridges, newer brands and those that sell small or moderate volumes of fridges, dual-evaporator cooling systems, mini fridges, all-fridge (no-freezer) models and other less-common refrigerator types, smart fridges, and best practices for maintenance. We plan to examine some of those topics in greater depth in the future. In the meantime, we think the research we’ve done can help a lot of people find a good fridge.
Senior staff writer Liam McCabe has covered home appliances since 2011, including a stint at Reviewed, and has worked on versions of this Wirecutter guide since 2014.
Why we don’t have refrigerator “picks”
We don’t have “official” recommendations for specific refrigerator models. If this were a typical Wirecutter guide, we’d highlight a handful of the “best” refrigerators that, based on our research and testing, would make the most people the happiest. Earlier versions of this guide took that approach, but it never felt like the optimal way to tackle the topic, so we’re trying something different these days.
In this guide we still point you toward brands and general styles that stood out in our research, and we link to examples of specific models (and we may still earn a commission if readers end up making a purchase through those links, which is standard for Wirecutter). But for now we aren’t calling anything a “pick” or “the best.”
This approach feels appropriate for a few reasons.
For one, refrigerators are so diverse, even just in terms of size, that we’d struggle to fit a representative list of “picks” onto one page that’s easy to read. In older versions of this guide, we tried to work around that challenge by picking just a handful of the most popular sizes and types, but we heard from readers who couldn’t use those fridges and felt left out or confused. For perspective: As of late February 2022, the 10 best-selling models on Home Depot’s website included three different widths, four different door styles, and a variety of heights, depths, and ice-dispenser designs.
It’s also a very subjective category, and reasonable people can come to different conclusions about all kinds of features: door ice versus freezer bin, counter-depth versus standard-depth, French-door versus side-by-side, to name a few. There’s not really a useful performance metric that would separate good fridges from bad fridges, and there’s not enough strong data about reliability or longevity to make good predictions, either.
So you can use this guide to find a fridge in a couple of different ways. You might go with one of the specific models we mention, or you might use the filtered search function on a retailer’s website: Home Depot, Best Buy, Lowe’s, AJ Madison, Appliances Connection, and many, many others offer handy tools.
How to pick a fridge
First, find the right size. Tons of articles about this are all over the internet, though this video from Home Depot is especially helpful. Here’s our advice, with a couple of tips that are often missing from other guides:
- Take multiple measurements of your space (rather than the existing fridge) to find the maximum width, depth, and height. Seriously—take multiple measurements of each dimension in case your floors turn out to be crooked. Remember to measure any baseboards or trim.
- Build in some buffer space for ventilation. Make it about 1 inch on the top and sides and at least 2 inches at the back. If you jam your fridge in tighter, the fridge’s heat exchange might have to work harder than it was designed to. That can hurt its ability to hold the proper temperatures and might wear out the cooling system faster than its intended lifespan (usually 10 years, according to most manufacturers we’ve talked to).
- Think about measuring the rest of your kitchen. The layout of the rest of your kitchen matters, too. If you have a kitchen island, measure the distance from the wall to the edge of that counter to account for the door swing. In this situation, a counter-depth model, or one with half-width doors (like a French-door or side-by-side model) might make the most sense. If your fridge will sit close to a wall, think about whether the door will be able to swing open wide enough for you to pull out crisper drawers or deli trays. A single-door fridge (like a top-freezer or bottom-freezer model), with the hinge on the opposite side from the wall, might be your best bet.
- Measure your doorways. You can take the doors off the fridge to get a few extra inches, but there are some fridges that you just cannot get inside of certain kitchens.
A single-door fridge (like a top-freezer or bottom-freezer model), with the hinge on the opposite side from the wall, might be your best bet.Illustration: Wirecutter
As long as a fridge fits your space, there’s no wrong size. You can put a small, affordable top-freezer fridge in a big cutout meant for a humongous, expensive French-door model. It might look a little odd, but it’ll work fine. Bigger fridges do tend to make people much happier than smaller ones, according to our reader survey and analysis of customer reviews. Many people buy the widest fridge that fits their space and budget (often 36 inches) and often one that’s very deep (34 inches or more), too.
Determine the depth you want. Although bigger fridges tend to make people happier than smaller ones, customer reviews indicate that the benefits peter out around 20 cubic feet, which is roughly the size of a fridge that’s 36 inches wide but slightly shallower than usual—also known as counter depth.
So, even if a deeper, standard-depth fridge fits your space, we think a counter-depth refrigerator is worth considering. According to our analysis of customer reviews, people who own counter-depth fridges (most models, anyway) usually find that the fridges have plenty of capacity, and they tend to be equally happy with their fridges overall. Counter-depth fridges are also arguably easier to organize and look better in most kitchens, plus they tend to use a bit less energy.
After size, you get to decide what else is important to you, in whichever order you choose. Here are the rest of the criteria that most people seem to focus on when they’re thinking about their fridges (in declining order of popularity, roughly), with some advice on how to navigate the choices:
Decide between freestanding or built-in. The only true difference between these types of fridges is that freestanding models have finished sides, while built-in fridges do not because they’re designed to sit flush with and attach to (or even blend in with) cabinetry.
Built-ins also cost at least $4,000, can be much wider than freestanding fridges, and are rarely available in top-freezer configurations (but much more commonly available in all-fridge or all-freezer columns). This AJ Madison primer has some additional details on style and sizing options for built-ins. (AJ Madison is a major appliance retailer that carries most brands of refrigerators, both freestanding and built-in.)
Freestanding full-size fridges can be as cheap as $650 or cost thousands of dollars like some built-ins. Since freestanding fridges are much, much more affordable, that’s the type that the overwhelming majority of people buy, so that’s what we focus on in this guide. But some of this guide applies to built-in fridges, too.
Choose a door style. French-door models always dominate the best-seller lists at major retailers, and they were by far the most widely liked of the most popular types in our reader survey. Most people seem to prefer this style because the layout is convenient, and possibly because it looks trendy.
But any style can be a good fit for the right kitchen and owner. Some people prefer a side-by-side model’s no-bend freezer access and ample shelving. Top-freezer models are a lot more affordable and can fit really small spaces. Bottom-freezer fridges usually lack the high-end look of French-door models but have a lot of the same practical advantages. Four-door models (equal-size half-width, half-height, swing-open doors) and column designs (all-fridge no-freezer, and vice versa) have their place, too.
Illustration: Wirecutter
Consider reliability. More than half of the respondents in our reader survey said that reliability was one of the top three most important things they wanted in a new fridge. Unfortunately, nobody has a crystal ball that can predict which brand or model—or especially individual refrigerator units on sale today—will last the longest and have the fewest problems. However, after digging through Wirecutter survey responses and retail customer reviews and examining other publicly available data, we have some leads about the brands, fridge types, and even specific models that may be most prone to problems.
Think through what you want for capacity, shelving, and organization. These closely related qualities are highly important to most fridge owners. More than half of the readers who filled out our survey cited one of these three things as a top priority in their fridge, and size or layout was mentioned in at least 25% of the customer reviews we analyzed for any individual fridge. For higher-end models with specialized organization features (such as a door-in-door system or a two-drawer French-door model), size and layout were usually cited in more than 50% of reviews, and the sentiment was largely positive.
If you want an enormous fridge, by all means, get one. But you might not need quite as much space as you think.
French-door models earn much more praise and less criticism related to shelving, storage, and organization than side-by-side or top-freezer fridges. One review (collected as part of a promotion) that encapsulates a lot of the praise: “I save on groceries because I can actually see everything,” writes JManigault201 about a French-door model on Home Depot’s website, adding, “I don’t have to bend so low to get items out of my fridge.
The [drawers] on the freezer make it easy to see my food without having to reach so far back.” The exception here is counter-depth French-door fridges with door dispensers: Owners are more likely to cite these models as being cramped or hard to organize, we found.
In general, we learned that most people are comfortable with the size of their fridge. Complaints about small capacity are just as common among huge 26-cubic-foot models as they are among 16-cubic-foot models, for example. It really has more to do with the shelving and layout. If you want an enormous fridge, by all means, get one. But you might not need quite as much space as you think. (Just to put the idea in your head: We think that if you’re looking for a 36-inch-wide fridge, you’ll probably be happy with a counter-depth fridge.)
Think twice about an ice maker and door dispenser. Automatic ice makers, especially the kind that dispenses ice through the refrigerator door, are both wonderfully convenient and one of the most finicky, problem-prone parts of a fridge.
In our reader survey, 24% of respondents said that their ice maker had jammed or completely broken, by far the most common hardware-based failure. That’s particularly notable considering that 17% of respondents didn’t even have an automatic ice maker in the first place or said that they didn’t think about this feature.
But most people seem to think that a built-in ice maker is worth having. Some upscale fridges even have specialty ice features, like LG’s Craft Ice clear spheres (38% of the owners of one model whose reviews we analyzed cited Craft Ice as one of their favorite features).
We looked for patterns in the types of fridges that are most prone to ice-maker problems, but we couldn’t find any. Ice-maker reliability, as far as we can tell, depends on the specific model of refrigerator, not its brand, door type, or price.
For example: One Samsung French-door fridge, the RF28R7201SR, has a terrible ice maker, with 40% of owners complaining that it jams regularly, according to our AI-assisted analysis of customer reviews.
(It was by far the worst service record we came across.) But the similar Samsung RF27T5201SR has far fewer complaints, with 10% of owners complaining about ice jams (still a bad rate). And then the nearly identical-looking Samsung RF28R7551S has essentially no complaints about its ice maker jamming. Similar trends play out among other brands (though none even come close to the failure rate on that first Samsung model).
Consider the finish. Stainless steel is still the trendy-yet-attainable choice, as it has been for a few decades, and is widely regarded as an option that looks good in most kitchens. (Though a common complaint is that it’s a pain to keep fingerprint-free, even for models with supposedly fingerprint-resistant finishes.)
Different brands have slightly different looks to their stainless—some are more reflective, some have more pronounced brushed-metal grooves, some are more fingerprint resistant. If this matters to you, check out some fridges in person.
There are plenty of other finishes to pick from, though they’re available on fewer models. Other neutral, brushed-metal finishes such as black stainless or slate are common. Glossy black and white are still widely available, particularly on cheaper fridges. Whirlpool and GE sell a bisque finish, though we aren’t sure whether this cream color is a throwback to or a holdover from the ’80s. Bolder, brighter colors (or even prints) are available, too, though they tend to be reserved for upscale models and only from certain brands.
Choose a model that maximizes efficiency and sustainability. Refrigerators are much more energy efficient than they were 15 and especially 30 years ago due to stricter efficiency regulations from the Department of Energy, as well as stronger incentives from the Environmental Protection Agency’s Energy Star program. And as of summer 2021, all of the major brands now claim to use a climate-friendly refrigerant in at least some of their lineups—and a couple have transitioned all of their new fridges in that regard.
So without even trying hard, you’ll probably end up with an environmentally sound refrigerator.
But there are some rules of thumb to follow if you want to maximize your energy savings, such as choosing a smaller capacity, passing on a door dispenser, and avoiding side-by-side models.
Less important factors
Cooling performance and food preservation: Some fridges are probably better at keeping foods fresher and more appetizing for longer, but we haven’t yet looked into the science of how that works or which features to look for. Consumer Reports tests and rates refrigerators for temperature consistency, defined as how quickly (and accurately) each fridge reaches the temperature on its thermostat and how well it holds that temperature as the ambient temperature around the fridge changes. This capability probably has something to do with maintaining freshness, so you could check Consumer Reports’s reviews if you think this will matter.
What we can tell you is that after analyzing more than 28,000 customer reviews across 34 different fridges, it is very uncommon to find criticism of fridges for doing a poor job keeping foods fresh, outside of cases where the cooling system was obviously defective or broken.
When people do complain, it’s usually because the temperature throughout the fridge compartment is uneven: Portions of the door are too warm for milk, for example, or the very top or bottom of the cavity gets so cold that lettuce freezes and turns into disgusting mush. This happens with only some fridges, even if they’re working properly. The problem seems more common among lower-cost top-freezer models, and higher-end models with a door-in-door feature might struggle to hold dairy-safe temperatures in their door shelves. Consumer Reports also tests for this type of temperature uniformity, if you’d like to see performance results for specific models.
Noise: When refrigerators are functioning properly, they do not make enough noise to irritate the vast majority of people. But any refrigerator can become kind of noisy when it’s malfunctioning, and certain models seem more prone to developing these nuisance noises than others. Low-cost top-freezer models tend to run a little louder in the first place and seem to be a bit more prone to nuisance noises, too.
But certain larger, pricier models seem more likely to whine or thunk or whirr, and there’s no obvious reason that we’ve been able to discern. We’ve tried to avoid linking to those models in this guide.
LG: The major brand with the highest satisfaction
Photo: LG
Among refrigerators from the five major brands, LG fridges seem to make their owners the happiest. In a Wirecutter reader survey, far more real-life LG owners said they were satisfied with their fridges than owners of other brands did, and fewer said they hated their fridges.
On the downside, LG’s customer service is bad (though its fridge reliability is above average, so you have a lower chance of needing to interact with customer service). A handful of specific models (all side-by-sides) have major reliability problems.
But on balance, LG as a brand stands out a bit from the other major manufacturers.
Reader survey: Overall satisfaction by brand
| Frigidaire (380 owners) |
GE (584 owners) |
LG (757 owners) |
Samsung (649 owners) |
Whirlpool (653 owners) |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Very satisfied | 27.1% | 37.0% | 57.9% | 40.8% | 40.6% |
| Somewhat satisfied | 38.7% | 34.8% | 28.8% | 35.6% | 35.2% |
| Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied | 10.3% | 9.4% | 3.3% | 3.1% | 7.5% |
| Somewhat dissatisfied | 17.1% | 13.4% | 6.7% | 10.9% | 13.0% |
| Very dissatisfied | 6.8% | 5.5% | 3.0% | 9.6% | 3.7% |
LG’s customer ratings on big retailers’ websites tend to be slightly better than other brands’ too, and other major appliance reviewers generally rate LG fridges at or near the top of the pack.
The shelving and organization in LG fridges earned especially high ratings in our reader survey, as LG beat the other major brands in satisfaction with perceived capacity, storage ability, and accessibility of contents.
LG is also a front-runner in quietness and ice-maker quality, and owners are also very satisfied with the temperature accuracy and consistency—a finding backed up by Consumer Reports’s laboratory testing (“Refrigerators,” Consumer Reports Buying Guide 2021, pages 54–61).
Reader survey: Satisfaction with performance and features by brand
Shelves (storage ability and organization)
| Frigidaire | GE | LG | Samsung | Whirlpool | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Good | 28.7% | 33.0% | 41.2% | 44.4% | 33.4% |
| Bad | 21.1% | 17.0% | 10.3% | 10. 0% |
14.7% |
Overall capacity
| Frigidaire | GE | LG | Samsung | Whirlpool | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Good | 27.4% | 36.0% | 60.6% | 55.6% | 40.7% |
| Bad | 15.5% | 14.7% | 4.5% | 5.4% | 11.0% |
Accessibility of contents (in terms of height and depth)
| Frigidaire | GE | LG | Samsung | Whirlpool | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Good | 31.8% | 39.4% | 58.8% | 54.5% | 41.5% |
| Okay | 46.1% | 42.6% | 35.9% | 38.7% | 46.1% |
| Bad | 20.5% | 16.8% | 5.0% | 6.5% | 11. 5% |
Noise level
| Frigidaire | GE | LG | Samsung | Whirlpool | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Good | 31.8% | 38.5% | 61.2% | 55.8% | 42.3% |
| Bad | 17.1% | 15.2% | 6.2% | 6.8% | 10.6% |
Ice maker
| Frigidaire | GE | LG | Samsung | Whirlpool | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Good | 35.0% | 45.2% | 57.6% | 41.6% | 46.2% |
| Bad | 16.6% | 11.1% | 5.8% | 19.3% | 6.9% |
LG doesn’t sell as many cheap refrigerators as some of the other brands, particularly Frigidaire, GE, and Whirlpool, so maybe it’s more accurate to compare the satisfaction with its higher-end French-door and side-by-side models against those of other brands.
But even then, LG’s fridges make their owners happier than the other major brands’ fridges do.
Reader survey: Satisfaction among French-door refrigerator owners by brand
| Frigidaire (116 owners) |
GE (289 owners) |
LG (688 owners) |
Samsung (615 owners) |
Whirlpool (351 owners) |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Very satisfied | 32.8% | 50.5% | 58.1% | 38.5% | 46.4% |
| Somewhat satisfied | 42.2% | 35.3% | 29.8% | 36.3% | 37.3% |
| Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied | 6.0% | 4.2% | 2.8% | 3.9% | 5.7% |
| Somewhat dissatisfied | 12.9% | 8.3% | 6.5% | 11.2% | 7.1% |
| Very dissatisfied | 6. 0% |
1.7% | 2.8% | 10.1% | 3.4% |
The premium features on some of LG’s higher-end models are especially popular among owners. The Craft Ice feature on the LG LRFVC2406S, for example, earned high praise from nearly 40% of owners according to our customer-review analysis, and only a few instances of criticism. The door-in-door feature (also available from a couple of other brands) was widely liked, as well. (Reviewers didn’t remark on the InstaView translucent door nearly as often.)
We don’t have great data on LG’s reputation for top-freezer models—we got too few survey responses regarding such models to reach statistical significance. And LG doesn’t sell as wide a variety of that type of fridge as other brands do. But judging from the little info we do have, those models seem to be solid, too. LG’s bottom-freezer models also earned high marks in our reader survey.
As of early 2021, new LG refrigerators all use climate-friendly R600a refrigerant.
LG models you may want to consider
The following models received generally positive customer reviews, according to our review analysis, and may be a good place to start in your search:
French-door models
Bottom-freezer models
Side-by-side models
Top-freezer models
Flaws but not dealbreakers
The big caveat with LG refrigerators is that some of its larger fridges are more likely than those of other brands to stop cooling. It has been a big problem over the past decade, and although the company seems to have corrected the issue with most of its current models, there are still some side-by-side models with a really poor track record.
In 2020, LG settled a class-action lawsuit regarding faulty compressors that may have affected up to 1.6 million fridges sold from 2014 to 2017, all of which were 33- and 36-inch-wide French-door and side-by-side models.
We found some evidence of this compressor problem in our reader survey: More LG owners (3.
8%) than average (2.5%) said that their fridge or freezer had stopped cooling. (Samsung was the only major brand with a worse track record for cooling failures, at 4.6%.)
And when we analyzed customer reviews in 2021 for nine then-available LG models, we saw clear evidence that two of them seem to have this same compressor-related no-cooling problem: the LSXS26326S and LSXS26366S, both of which are side-by-sides with the older bar-style handles (rather than pocket-style handles like those of the newer LRSES2706V). More than 15% of the reviews for those bar-handle side-by-sides cited compressor problems or cooling failures, which is a ton. When we asked LG for comment on this finding, representatives replied: “In this industry as a whole, refrigerator service issues often relate to cooling performance. When, on occasion, any such issue arises, LG is committed to taking care of its customers.” The reps also referenced LG’s warranty coverage. (For what it’s worth, as of February 2022, none of these three models appears to be available for sale anywhere but on LG’s own site.
)
For other current LG fridges (including the French-door models we analyzed) and other major brands, we saw those kinds of problems cited in only about 3% of reviews, give or take. So we’d guess (hope?) that as long as you avoid the older side-by-sides, the chance of a cooling problem with an LG is about the same as with refrigerators from other brands.
The big caveat with LG fridges is that some of its larger fridges are more likely than those of other brands to stop cooling.
LG customer service is worse than average, with one quarter of all owners who reported interacting with the company in our survey citing a negative experience. Not great! That’s about twice the rate of bad service compared with the results for Whirlpool or GE. One Wirecutter reader’s experience is representative of many complaints we read: “It took almost 2 months for a warranty repair, many service companies no longer handle LG, and we almost lost the one repair person due to LG’s poor response.
LG was very bureaucratic and we spent at least 8 hours on phone calls and emails. Unresponsive.” LG told Wirecutter in a statement that the company was “surprised to hear this.”
LG’s warranty coverage is pretty typical for the industry now, with one year comprehensive parts and labor, and five years parts and labor for the compressor and cooling system. The company will also provide a replacement compressor for up to 10 years (as a couple of other brands will), though you’ll have to cover the cost of labor, which will be high. And again, if you ever need to make a claim under the warranty, you’ll be dealing with LG’s below-average customer service.
We did find that LG fridges were slightly less likely to break in minor ways that are annoying (though often tolerable). So with an LG refrigerator, you might be less likely to deal with nuisances like broken shelves, handles, doors, lights, ice makers, or water dispensers. Owners also cited temperature inconsistencies less often and were notably less likely to say that organizing the fridge and keeping track of items was difficult.
Consumer Reports puts LG near the front of the pack for reliability, too.
GE: Somewhat better customer service
Photo: GE
Editor’s note: GE issued a recall for six French-door models (model numbers GFE26JYMKFFS, GFE26JYMNFFS, GNE27EYMKFFS, GNE27EYMNFFS, GNE27JYMKFFS, and GNE27JYMNFFS) in April 2022. Those models have a freezer-door handle that may detach, which can pose a fall hazard for anyone pulling the freezer door open. One of the French-door refrigerators we list below, the GNE27JYMFS, is affected by the recall (specifically, all of the models manufactured from February 2020 to August 2021). Those with a recalled model can contact GE to schedule a free service call to replace the handle fasteners. More information, including the affected serial numbers, can be found at the GE recall page.
GE refrigerators are another good option if you don’t want an LG for whatever reason (fear of compressor failures, can’t find one you want in your area on your schedule, long-standing feud with the company over past transgressions).
Among the top five brands, GE’s French-door fridges earned the next-best ratings behind LG’s in our reader survey, with high overall levels of satisfaction and strong ratings for important characteristics such as capacity, organization, perceived reliability (with the fewest complaints about bad reliability), looks, temperature control, and ice-maker performance. These fridges also score very well in Consumer Reports’s ratings (“Refrigerators,” Consumer Reports Buying Guide 2022, pages 23–27), and their average customer ratings on major retailers’ websites are similar to those of LG’s refrigerators.
GE’s higher-end French-door models are particularly impressive. The GE Profile PVD28BYNFS earned massive praise in customer reviews for its versatile ice and water dispenser, which has auto-fill as well as a sensor that triggers a light when someone comes near it. According to our customer-review analysis, more than 25% of reviewers also said they loved the interior lighting, which shines from the back wall of the fridge (most models have strips of LEDs on the sides instead).
And the PVD28BYNFS has a door-in-door feature, though owners seem to be less enthusiastic about it than LG owners are about their door-in-door features.
But the basic French-door models still earn great ratings, too. And GE also makes some premium models under the Café label that are less gadget-y and more design-y and earn strong reviews for their bold style. (The company also makes the luxury-level Monogram brand, which we didn’t research closely.)
GE is also one of the handful of brands whose customer service seemed to generate fewer negative sentiments among our survey respondents, especially compared with LG and Samsung. GE has its own repair fleet in some metro areas, which might have something to do with it. To be clear, our data suggests that GE French-door fridges need repairs at a rate similar to that of LG French-door models, and we did see some complaints about customer service among the analyzed reviews. Minor problems like noise may be slightly more common, and a small percentage of customer reviews still cite major cooling failures.
But you might have a better chance of getting a repair done promptly under warranty.
GE’s side-by-side models received a notably mediocre satisfaction rating in our survey, and other reviewers are lukewarm on them, too. Our data suggests that these models have more nuisance-type problems with reliability than most other brands’ side-by-sides. However, most side-by-side owners in general aren’t exactly thrilled with their fridges (they’re content, maybe, but not “very satisfied” at nearly the same rate as French-door owners), and GE’s rating in this category is in the middle of the pack among the major brands.
Top-freezer models from GE are decent and can be some of the very cheapest full-size fridges available. We have more on these below, in our section about budget-friendly options.
GE also sells a bunch of affordable bottom-freezer models, such as the GBE21DYKFS, though we don’t have enough data on this category to have a clear picture of how they stack up against those of other brands.
Most current GE fridges (PDF) use the climate-friendly R600a refrigerant, and GE told us it plans to transition all of its freestanding models by the end of 2021 and its built-ins by the end of 2022. (We’ve reached out for an update on those plans—stay tuned.)
GE Appliances is owned by Haier, which also sells the budget Hotpoint and city-sized Haier brands, though we don’t have much info about those.
GE models you may want to consider
The following models received generally positive customer reviews, according to our review analysis, and may be a good place to start in your search:
French-door models
Side-by-side models
- GE GSS25GYPFS (This is a model similar to the one we had originally analyzed, which has since been discontinued.)
Top-freezer models
Whirlpool: Fewer bells and whistles, fewer complaints about bad reliability
Photo: Whirlpool
Whirlpool’s French-door refrigerators (and Maytag’s, and to a lesser extent KitchenAid’s—same parent company and very similar products) are totally solid, though they don’t generate the same level of enthusiasm as those of the other brands we’ve covered.
According to our reader survey, slightly fewer Whirlpool French-door owners than their GE counterparts said they were very or somewhat satisfied, and they trailed even further behind LG French-door owners.
We also found in our survey that, despite what looks like a similar capacity across the lineup, Whirlpool owners tend to be less satisfied with their fridges’ capacity, storage, and organization than owners of most other major brands’ models. Their ratings of the organizational features weren’t quite as high, either.
Satisfaction with Whirlpool Corporation’s side-by-sides followed a similar pattern: well behind the enthusiasm for LG and more neutral than GE, with fewer people very satisfied or very dissatisfied with their Whirlpools.
Bottom-freezer fridges are a bit of a hidden gem, offering a lot of the same advantages of French-door models but for a much lower price.
We also found through our survey and customer-review analysis that Whirlpool’s French-door and side-by-side reliability was similar to that of the other brands—although notably, the rate of major problems (like cooling failures) seemed especially low.
As a brand, Whirlpool had the fewest complaints in our survey about truly bad reliability (though compared with LG, it had fewer reports of good reliability and more for okay reliability, which is a sign of annoying problems but not critical failures). In our analysis of customer reviews, we found very few reports of cooling-related failures—we actually found no such complaints reported in the past year for the WRF535SWHZ French-door model, which we had previously highlighted in this guide as a big, basic option that should work well for most people. Whirlpool earned solid marks for customer service in our survey, too, though we didn’t find customer reviews actively praising the service the same way that we did for GE.
Bells and whistles aren’t really Whirlpool’s thing: It doesn’t have models with a door-in-door option or spherical ice molds or a tablet built into the door. Its highest-end fridges, under the KitchenAid brand, are more about style than flashy features—a perfectly respectable approach.
Whirlpool was one of the few brands that had enough survey responses about bottom-freezer models to be statistically significant, and the ratings were strong. Bottom-freezer fridges are a bit of a hidden gem, offering a lot of the same advantages of French-door models but for a much lower price. We can’t say with confidence how Whirlpool’s bottom-freezer models (like the WRB322DMBM) compare to those of other brands in the eyes of most owners, but Whirlpool’s options seem like a solid choice if you need one.
All of Whirlpool’s freestanding refrigerators were transitioned to the climate-friendly R600a refrigerant by the end of 2021.
And while few buyers are truly excited about top-freezer models, we have some evidence from our reader survey and customer-review analysis that a small, budget-friendly Whirlpool might be a slightly more satisfying, or at least a more reliable, option than other brands’ top-freezer fridges.
IKEA’s house-brand refrigerators are manufactured by Whirlpool and have mostly similar characteristics.
They’re often on sale for lower prices than similar Whirlpool models, so if you see one you like for a good price, go for it.
Whirlpool models you may want to consider
The following models received generally positive customer reviews, according to our review analysis, and may be a good place to start in your search:
French-door models
Side-by-side models
Bottom-freezer models
Top-freezer models
Other major brands
Samsung
Samsung makes some good-looking refrigerators with some flashy features at lower prices than other brands’. But across its popular French-door models, we found double the rate of dissatisfaction compared with LG, GE, and Whirlpool models in our reader survey. It also had the highest percentage of owners who rated their French-door model’s reliability as bad overall (more than 14%).
The ice makers seem especially failure-prone: More than a third of reviewers said they had problems with the ice maker on the popular RF28R7201SR, and the RF27T5201SR also had ice-related complaints in nearly 20% of its reviews. A class-action suit regarding the faulty ice makers is close to being settled via mediation as of February 2022.
One high-end feature that owners like a lot is the Family Hub, a giant tablet built into the door of a big fridge. Owners say they find it useful for all kinds of reasons: It’s good for managing grocery lists, monitoring a doorbell camera, looking up recipes, using it as a mirrored TV or digital picture frame, and so on. A few owners cite glitchy behavior, but for the most part, satisfaction seems pretty high. I remember scoffing at the idea of a tablet in a fridge when Samsung launched the first version about six years ago, assuming that it would be a reliability nightmare. But there are far fewer complaints about the tablet (or related software support) than I’d have assumed there would be by now.
There are also several options for putting a screen in your kitchen that offer more flexibility than a giant panel mounted vertically to an immovable appliance that you’ll own for about a decade. But in general, people who have a Family Hub like it.
And in general, plenty of people are perfectly happy with their Samsung fridges. The side-by-sides in particular earned the second-best satisfaction ratings among the top five brands in our survey, behind LG’s (though they still had the worst rating for reliability). The premium Bespoke line is one of the few true counter-depth offerings we know of. If you need a fridge on short notice and a Samsung model looks like a top bet, it probably won’t be a disaster. It’s just not the first (or second, or third) brand we’d recommend.
Frigidaire
According to our reader survey, this is the major brand with the lowest overall owner satisfaction, as well as the lowest satisfaction for each individual type of refrigerator (though it’s not far behind GE for basic top-freezer models).
Frigidaire’s lineup really has no standout trait, except that some of its top-freezer models offer stylish pocket handles and glass shelves for lower prices than other brands’ top-freezer models with less-nice features. Some professional reviewers like some of the brand’s fridges (USA Today’s Reviewed, for example, has a Frigidaire French-door model at the top of its rankings as of February 2022), but generally the company doesn’t rate as well as the other big brands among owners or pro reviewers.
Smaller brands
Beko and Blomberg are both made by one of Europe’s largest appliance companies (Arçelik) and have been nibbling at the fringes of the US market for about a decade. Our reader survey didn’t turn up any useful information on how they compare to other brands in the US, but the parent company has a good reputation in other countries. The challenge with these brands might be getting service under warranty or spare parts for repairs in the future.
Insignia is Best Buy’s house brand, and you can get some great deals on basic (but often big!) fridges.
We did a little digging, and unlike refrigerators from other big store brands (such as IKEA or Kenmore) Insignia fridges don’t seem to be made by any of the other major manufacturers. The customer ratings are solid, though we didn’t get enough info from our reader survey to understand how Insignia models compare to those of other brands.
Based on the look and layout of the fridges, Kenmore’s basic top-freezer models appear to be made by Frigidaire, most of its other midrange models are probably made by Whirlpool, and its higher-end models seem to be LGs. Kenmore products can vary a bit from the major-label versions—sometimes they earn different performance ratings from pro reviewers, for example—but generally you can expect the same experience.
Brands like Hisense, Galanz, and Midea are less known in the US (at least for refrigerators) but are major players overseas. Unfortunately we just don’t have enough info about how they compare to the major brands. Are they probably fine? Yeah, they’ll keep your food cold as long as they aren’t defective.
The real question: At what rate are they defective or prone to malfunctions? We don’t really know.
What about a budget pick?
If you’re looking for a fridge that works for the lowest possible price, get a top-freezer model. It’s okay to pick the cheapest model that’s readily available and fits your size requirements. It’ll do the job just fine.
Small models (10 cubic feet) from smaller brands, such as the Magic Chef MCDR1000WE, start around $400. The customer ratings for these lowest-end fridges tend to be decent, though some models (like this retro-styled Galanz) seem more prone to cooling failures than a typical fridge. You can find even cheaper fridges, but they tend to be very small, almost like mini fridges.
Small fridges, like the 10-cubic-foot Magic Chef MCDR1000WE, get decent owner ratings but seem more prone to cooling failures than a typical fridge.
Photo: Magic Chef
Family-size models (16 cubic feet or larger) from major brands including Frigidaire and GE start around $600. The customer ratings for these models are solid and sometimes even great, though these owners are more likely than normal to complain about noise, lack of shelving, and lack of capacity. The barebones GE GTE17DTNRWW, for example, has an average rating of 4.5 stars (out of five) on Home Depot’s site, beating out most side-by-side models, but a whopping 18% of recent reviewers write that it’s noisy.
Family-size models like the 16.6-cubic-foot GE GTE17DTNRWW can have solid owner ratings but also tend to get more complaints about noise, as well as a lack of shelving and capacity. Photo: GE
If you have a little wiggle room in your budget, you could consider stepping up to a model with glass shelves (rather than wire), recessed pocket-style handles, or a stainless-steel finish—something like the Frigidaire FFTR1835VS. You can find some higher-capacity models, too.
Even with all those upgrades, a top-of-the-line top-freezer model will almost always still cost less than any other style of refrigerator of comparable size.
Refrigerators from store brands, such as Best Buy’s Insignia label, can cost a little less than fridges from the major brands while offering similar features and similarly solid owner reviews, though we haven’t dug into the customer reviews as closely, so we’re not sure how they compare.
We don’t have enough evidence to say with confidence that one brand of top-freezer fridges is significantly better than others. In our reader survey, we didn’t receive enough responses about LG or Samsung top-freezer models, for example, for the results to be statistically significant, let alone for smaller brands like Insignia or Magic Chef.
We did spot a few patterns among Frigidaire, Whirlpool, and GE top-freezer models, though we’re not sure how conclusive they are. Whirlpool top-freezer fridges, for example, have significantly higher owner satisfaction and a very low rate of utter hatred.
But maybe that’s because the brand’s slightly higher prices discourage people from buying the truly lowest-end models, so they don’t drag down the overall rating. Whirlpool’s reliability for this style also seems to be a little better than that of the other two brands. But we just don’t have enough data to say how these Whirlpools compare to similarly priced models with comparable features from LG or Samsung, so we don’t want to endorse one brand over another.
Other odds and ends:
- Top-freezer fridge owners are more likely to complain that their fridges are loud, though it’s still a relatively low percentage, even among the noisiest models.
- Some of the lowest-end models technically do not meet the Energy Star efficiency benchmarks, but they still use less energy than most refrigerators because they’re relatively small, the top-freezer design makes thermodynamic sense, and they don’t have through-the-door ice dispensers.
- Most models, at least from the major brands, have reversible doors, so you can set them up to open in whichever direction works better for your kitchen layout.
What do you get when you pay more for a fridge?
The Café CVE28DP4NW2 has LED lights across its back wall for better visibility, an auto-fill water dispenser, and compartments with humidity controls. Photo: Café
When you knock twice on the tinted glass panel of the LG LRFVC2406S, it lights up to display the contents behind the door-in-door. This premium model also has a second ice maker in the freezer that produces large spherical ice. Photo: LG
The Café CVE28DP4NW2 has LED lights across its back wall for better visibility, an auto-fill water dispenser, and compartments with humidity controls. Photo: Café
A basic, 36-inch French-door fridge from a major brand starts around $1,500. Nice-to-haves, such as a through-the-door ice dispenser and a second drawer, can each add a few hundred dollars to the price, as can a counter-depth design.
Then around $2,500, you start to move into truly premium territory. (For side-by-sides, the basic range is more like $1,100 to $2,000.)
Premium fridges come in a couple of different flavors that sometimes mix together. But roughly speaking, you can get a fridge that’s:
- Well equipped, with performance- and convenience-related upgrades. These include a second swing-space drawer (great for deli items and kids’ snacks), door-in-door compartments for easy drink access, high-end ice makers, translucent door panels, dispensers that can make tea and coffee, or a giant tablet built into the door.
- Well appointed, often counter-depth and without a dispenser. This style is more focused on an upscale design with sharper lines, bolder colors, or textured and accented handles. The doors can feel heavier (which some people associate with sturdiness), the shelves are more likely to have metal trim, and the crisper drawers might be glass instead of plastic.
It’s common among models of both types to have separate cooling systems for the fridge and freezer compartments (dual evaporators), which their makers advertise as an upgrade over the single systems used in most fridges. This design may improve food preservation, but we haven’t looked into the topic and can’t verify that that’s the case.
The lines between these styles are blurry and pretty much disappear around $4,000, where many freestanding fridges are both well equipped and well appointed.
When you buy a premium refrigerator, you’re paying for the look or the features, not a more reliable product.
In general, people who spend this much on a refrigerator tend to be even happier with their fridges, surpassing the already higher level of satisfaction among owners of the basic models. Customer ratings for these pricier models often reach 4.7 stars out of five on Home Depot’s site, whereas the midrange models tend to earn closer to 4.4 stars.
And according to our reader survey, brands that exclusively sell premium fridges (such as Bosch and KitchenAid) have higher owner satisfaction than brands that sell fridges at a mix of prices.
Premium fridges do not seem like they’re built to last longer than basic models: The warranties are similar if not the same, the brands make no claims about longevity, and we’ve come across plenty of stories about expensive fridges breaking down within a few years. We couldn’t find clear evidence that premium models have fewer nuisance-type problems, either. Some of them work smoothly, others have bells and whistles that seem prone to malfunctions. So in general, when you buy a premium refrigerator, you’re paying for the look or the features, not a more reliable product.
You’ll find some different brand names between the well-appointed and well-equipped styles, though they often come from the same parent companies. KitchenAid is a Whirlpool Corporation label that makes good-looking but feature-light fridges.
GE has its Profile line, which is feature-heavy, and the Café brand, which is style-forward. Electrolux is Frigidaire’s parent company. Samsung has its Bespoke series, and LG has the Studio and Signature lines.
So, what’s good in this price range? We don’t have perfect information about the best brands or models, but we do have a few leads.
If you want something well equipped, LG and GE (or the GE Profile sub-brand) are good choices. LG’s door-in-door and spherical-ice features (both found on the LRFVC2406S, among other models) and GE’s auto-fill dispenser (found on the PYE22KMKES and more) earn wide praise from their owners.
If you want something well appointed, we don’t have as much information. But Bosch seems like a category leader, with very high owner satisfaction and excellent reviews from owners—the 800 Series B36CT80SNS is one of its popular models. Owners like this Bosch model’s style and often say it seems to keeps food fresher a little longer (we have no clue whether this is true).
The main complaint is that the doors feel heavy to shut. The GE Café line is also well liked among owners who have left reviews, mostly for its style. The CVE28DP4NW2 is one popular model and has strong reviews (though many owners find the interior water dispenser to be awkward).
You can spend a lot more than $4,000 on a fridge if you’d like to. At these high prices, you can find plenty of notable brands, some of which are sub-labels of the major brands, like JennAir (Whirlpool), Monogram (GE), Thermador and Gaggenau (both under Bosch’s parent company, BSH), and Dacor (Samsung). Sub-Zero, Liebherr, Smeg, Miele, and Fisher & Paykel are some other notable names, and there are plenty more. Since these lines are all sold in such low volumes, we weren’t able to gather useful amounts of info about most of them from our reader survey or our analysis of customer reviews. Other pro reviewers don’t have much info about them, either. So we can’t make good comparisons between brands.
What we can say, based on the limited data we collected, is that people who own luxury brands tend to be really happy with their refrigerators.
Sub-Zero owners, for instance, gave the highest satisfaction rating in our reader survey, with 77% of owners answering that they were very satisfied with their fridges (LG French-door models earned such praise from 58% of their owners, for comparison’s sake), and another 16% said they were somewhat satisfied. Fisher & Paykel earned similar ratings. It wouldn’t surprise us if other luxury brands had similar ratings, but we just don’t have reliable information about enough of these brands to offer much specific, comparative advice.
What about built-in fridges?
As with luxury fridges in general, we don’t know enough about built-ins to offer useful advice, unfortunately.
Why are so many fridges out of stock?
As of February 2022, the US is still dealing with some shortages of new appliances, a downstream effect of worldwide supply-chain disruptions.
Our advice: You don’t need to stress out or overthink your new refrigerator, especially if you’re in a rush to replace a broken fridge. Most people are mostly happy (or at least not unhappy) with most fridges, so as long as you pick something that fits and won’t break (which is almost entirely out of your control anyway), you’ll probably think your new fridge is at least okay. In our reader survey, 78% of all respondents were somewhat or very satisfied with their fridges, while less than 5% were very dissatisfied, and no brand or style of fridge was immune from serious dissatisfaction. You may not be able to get the specific fridge you want in a timely manner, but you can probably get something similar. And after a week or two passes, you might forget you ever wanted something different.
Door styles: French-doors lead in popularity and satisfaction
You can find four popular styles of freestanding refrigerators, plus a few less-common types, all with some aesthetic and functional differences.
Certain types aren’t available in certain sizes or at certain prices, so in choosing a model you don’t quite have carte blanche, but you usually have some wiggle room. Here’s what you should know.
French-door
This style has dominated the best-seller lists of most major appliance retailers for more than a decade, and in a lot of important ways, it’s the most comfortable and convenient type of refrigerator for most people (if it fits your kitchen, anyway).
The French-door style is defined by the drawer-style freezer on the bottom and two half-width, independently opening doors for the fridge compartment on top. Photo: Bosch
In our reader survey, French-door fridges almost always had better ratings for owner satisfaction than the other two most-popular styles, side-by-sides and top-freezers, in everything from perceived capacity to storage and organization to temperature control to looks. Overall satisfaction is where we saw the most dramatic difference: All the little ways that French-door fridges are more comfortable to use and convenient for more people add up to a huge statistical advantage.
(Bottom-freezer models that don’t have French doors actually had the highest satisfaction of any type. But they just aren’t popular—constituting only 4% of fridge sales in 2020, according to the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers—for reasons that we don’t fully understand. It could be that they aren’t available in a 36-inch width, which is highly popular.)
Reader survey: Owner satisfaction by door type
| French-door | Side-by-side | Top-freezer | Bottom-freezer | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Very satisfied | 50.5% | 36.4% | 28.2% | 58.1% |
| Somewhat satisfied | 33.1% | 32.9% | 30.0% | 28.2% |
| Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied | 3.3% | 8.4% | 14.5% | 4.6% |
| Somewhat dissatisfied | 8. 9% |
17.1% | 20.0% | 6.0% |
| Very dissatisfied | 4.0% | 5.1% | 7.3% | 3.0% |
Price range: At this writing, French-door fridges run $1,700 for a basic model, $2,200 for through-the-door ice, and up to $4,000 for well-equipped or well-appointed models from major brands. Built-in models from luxury brands can cost five figures.
Size range: 36 inches is the most common width, while 33-inch and 30-inch models are also easy to find. A few 42-inch built-in models are available from luxury brands. Regular-depth and counter-depth models are widely available. Freestanding models are most common, but plenty of high-end built-ins are available, too.
Pros: All fresh foods stay near eye level for people of a wide range of heights, and you get easy wide-item storage (pizza, deli trays). The half-width doors are convenient in tight kitchen layouts, and models have a trendy look.
You also have tons of options, such as two drawers, door-in-door features, premium dispensers, specialty ice makers, translucent panels, and door tablets.
Cons: The bucket-style freezer can be hard to organize, and retrieving frozen items requires bending. Tall-item storage is sometimes limited. Models are relatively expensive.
The most consistent complaint about the French-door design concerns the bucket-style freezer. One Wirecutter reader writes: “At first it seemed appealing, but I think the lower ‘chest type’ freezer compartment is really hard to organize and keep clean. It seems we only use the top 6 inches and the rest is a deep freeze that we never dig into. Who knows what’s at the bottom?!”
However, some upscale French-door variants (like the Whirlpool WRX735SDHZ) have a fourth door, in the form of a second drawer, usually a small tray between the fridge and freezer. Owners tend to find this style easier to organize, judging from what we’ve seen in our reader-survey results and customer-review analysis.
It’s often used as a “kid’s drawer” for parent-approved snacks at a tyke-friendly height, but you can use it for anything you’d usually stick in a fridge—produce, deli items, canned or bottled or boxed drinks, whatever. One owner commented in our reader survey that it’s easier for small people to open lighter, separate drawers than one large bucket drawer. Usually such models let you adjust the temperature independently of the fridge or freezer, so you can turn it down a tick to help preserve meats and cheeses or nudge it up a bit to keep produce more appetizing or drinks at a better serving temperature.
Side-by-side
Although side-by-sides tend to create much less satisfaction than French-door models, some people genuinely prefer this layout. Arguably the best part is that they tend to cost much less than French-door fridges while offering similar capacities and feature sets. “A $2,000 side-by-side is an amazing fridge. A $2,000 French-door is not as nice,” said Richard Hughes of Appliance Factory.
Sometimes called “duplex” models, side-by-side fridges have full-height fridge and freezer compartments next to each other. Photo: Frigidaire
Price range: At this writing, side-by-sides cost between $1,100 and $1,350 for a basic model with or without through-the door ice, up to $3,000 for well-equipped freestanding models from major brands, and up to $15,000 for built-in models from luxury brands.
Size range: For freestanding models, 36 inches is the most common width, and some 33-inch models are available, standard-depth and counter-depth. For built-ins, 36-, 42-, and 48-inch widths are available.
Pros: Side-by-sides offer eye-level access to both the fridge and the freezer, plus plenty of shelf space in the freezer. Big capacity and cool features are available at reasonable prices, and the half-width doors are convenient in tight kitchen layouts.
Cons: The wide-item storage is limited, and the design is less energy efficient than other styles.
Owner satisfaction is mediocre overall.
While some French-door owners dislike their fridge’s bucket-style freezer, the numbers suggest that a higher rate of side-by-side owners really dislike their half-width freezers. One Wirecutter reader sums up the common sentiment: “I hate the side by side style. There’s no room for anything—a frozen pizza doesn’t even fit flat in the freezer!”
Top-freezer
People buy top-freezer models mostly because they’re affordable and can be compact (which also means they tend to use less energy). The downside is that owners tend not to be all that happy to own them. These fridges do their job efficiently, but they aren’t that ergonomic and tend not to have any upscale features or designs.
A top-freezer refrigerator, with the freezer above the fridge and full-width doors, is the basic, space-conscious, budget-friendly option. Photo: Frigidaire
Price range: At this writing, top-freezer fridges start at about $550 for a small, wire-shelf model (sometimes a little less on sale), $750 and up for larger sizes in stainless finish with glass shelves, and up to $3,500 for retro styles with an American flag or Mickey Mouse finish.
Size range: You get roughly 8 to 22 cubic feet of storage (anything smaller is really a mini fridge). These come in widths of 22 inches to 33 inches, and similar depths (most are roughly square-shaped).
Pros: Top-freezer models are affordable, available in a wide range of sizes, and efficient. No bending required to reach frozen items. These fridges are also more reliable than other types, according to some sources, though we found that they might be more prone to minor, nuisance-type problems.
Cons: Owner satisfaction is low. Fresh foods sit below waist height for most people, and the full-width doors may be hard to open completely in some kitchens.
We point toward a few notable top-freezer models in our section on budget-friendly fridges.
Bottom-freezers
Bottom-freezer refrigerators are a bit of a hidden gem. They aren’t as popular in the US as other types, so we haven’t seen as much feedback about them.
But from what we can tell, owners tend to be really happy with them. They offer some of the same practical advantages as basic French-door models, for significantly lower prices.
Photo: GE
Price range: At this writing, bottom-freezer fridges run about $800 for the smallest, most basic models, $1,200 and up for larger capacities and better creature comforts, $1,200 and up for narrow but tall European-style models, and $2,000 to $15,000 (and beyond) for built-in models.
Size range: A 30-inch width and standard depth is the most popular size in the US for affordable freestanding models, though they get as narrow as 22 inches and as wide as 33 inches. There are plenty of counter-depth models, as well, though these tend to be on the thinner side. Built-in models are 24 inches to 36 inches wide.
Pros: High owner satisfaction, especially relative to the price. All fresh foods stay near eye level for most people, and wide-item storage (pizza, deli trays) is easy.
Cons: The full-width doors on wider models may be hard to open completely in some kitchens. These fridges also have fewer premium features than other styles. Bucket-style freezers (on some models) can be hard to organize, and swing-open freezers (on other models) are very low to the ground. Retrieving frozen items requires bending.
Other styles
Four-door refrigerators, like the Whirlpool WRQA59CNKZ, usually have a full-width refrigerator on the top, while one of the two bottom compartments can work as a fridge or a freezer. Photo: Whirlpool
Four-door: Some brands sell upscale fridges with four equal-size doors. Not to be confused with two-drawer French-door fridges, these models have a full-width refrigerator compartment on top and two half-width compartments on the bottom. At least one of the bottom cavities is a dedicated freezer, and on some models one of them might be a “flex” space that can switch between a fridge or freezer (or in-betweener) compartment depending on what you need at the time.
These fridges are still uncommon, and we don’t have a ton of info about how much their owners like them or whether they perform well, but the large handful of models for sale (Whirlpool, Samsung, and Haier all sell some) have decent (though not always great) customer reviews.
Column or all-fridge/all-freezer: These are units with a single cavity that sits at (roughly) a single temperature. When they’re built-in units, they’re called columns, and they come in a huge variety of widths and finishes from tons of upscale and luxury brands. Freestanding models are usually known as all-fridge or all-freezer units, and although most of them are the kinds of utilitarian machines you’d find in a workshop or garage, you can find some sleeker-looking models that you could put into a kitchen as a thrifty alternative to a true built-in column. There aren’t very many statistics available, so we don’t have anything to share for now (maybe in a future update to this guide).
What about counter-depth fridges?
Photo: LG
Counter-depth, in the strictest sense, means that a refrigerator is shallow enough to sit flush with typical cabinets or countertops, so roughly 24 inches from the front edge to the back wall.
These “true” counter-depth models are almost always very expensive built-in units.
But in the looser, more common definition, a “counter-depth” fridge is a freestanding model that’s noticeably shallower than a standard-depth fridge. You can find tons of these models for sale at any typical big-box appliance retailer, from every major brand, in most door configurations, at a range of prices. They do tend to cost a little more than standard-depth fridges with similar specs, likely because they’re less popular and viewed in some sense as being more upscale.
The shallowest freestanding counter-depth fridges measure about 27 inches deep, as much as 9 inches (25%) shallower than a standard-depth model. (That’s counting the handles in both cases, but not the 2 inches you should leave between the back of the fridge and the wall for circulation). The doors aren’t flush with cabinetry like those of a “true” counter-depth model, but the overall design tends to feel less obtrusive than a standard-depth model, which can jut way out beyond your cabinets.
Some “counter-depth” fridges really stretch the definition, sitting at more than 30 inches deep—they’re shallower than similar standard-depth models from the same brand, but not by much. So you should double-check any counter-depth fridge’s actual dimensions.
Many people buy counter-depth fridges because that’s what fits into their kitchen. Maybe the fridge will be in a galley kitchen or pantry, or maybe an island stands tight to the fridge cutout, and it’s going to be a pain to deal with a fridge that takes up too much room.
Others genuinely prefer having a shallower fridge because they find it easier to keep organized. It’s one less row of half-eaten, long-forgotten pickle and salsa jars piled up in the back.
For many buyers, it’s more about the aesthetics. True counter-depth fridges can blend into their surroundings, but even the pseudo-counter-depth freestanding fridges from mainstream brands don’t feel so dominating or imposing in a room.
Mainstream brands often sell standard-depth and counter-depth variants of similar fridges, and the models tend to have a lot in common, apart from the shallower dimensions and smaller storage of the counter-depth versions.
Counter-depth models are very common overall: In a Wirecutter reader survey, more than 30% of the 5,000-plus respondents said that they owned a counter-depth fridge.
Counter-depth fridges have less capacity than standard-depth models, but their owners generally seem content with the storage space, judging from the satisfaction ratings in our reader survey and the customer reviews we’ve analyzed. In other words, it’s more about the layout and use of space than the sheer volume, and most counter-depth models use their space very well. Complaints about lack of space were equally uncommon for counter-depth and standard-depth fridges, with low single-digit percentages of owners complaining about that on average. (One outlier in this regard was the KitchenAid KRFC300ESS counter-depth fridge, which 16% of reviewers criticized for its cramped space, particularly in the freezer.)
We think most counter-depth models from the brands we highlight above should work well for most people.
Reliability: Hope for the best
We don’t know what the most reliable fridges are.
We’re reasonably confident that Miele and Sub-Zero fridges, which are very expensive, should last significantly longer than a typical refrigerator—both brands told us that they build their products to last for at least two decades, about double the typical lifespan for this category. Other high-end brands may make fridges with above-average reliability and longevity, too; we don’t know. And we do not think it’s possible to predict which major brand makes the most reliable fridges.
Any prediction about reliability is based on data about older fridges. That’s a reasonable way to try to do it, but there isn’t much of that historical data to begin with, especially outside of the five major brands. Looking to past performance also can’t account for changes in the way refrigerators are currently manufactured. We’ve learned from talking to manufacturers and touring appliance factories that components and processes and employees can change as often as every few weeks, yet the product’s model name remains the same.
In other words, today’s fridge might not be exactly the same product as last month’s fridge, and there can be bad batches.
There is some data, however, to suggest that some brands have been slightly less problematic on average than others over the past handful of years, and we’ve incorporated those findings (from our reader survey, the blog of Boston-based retailer Yale Appliance and Lighting, and Consumer Reports’s “How The Brands Stack Up” from its August 2021 issue, pages 48–49) into our buying advice. But even then, the gap between the most-reliable and least-reliable brands looks pretty narrow. And any company can sell you a dud and drag its heels on customer service, even if it has the best reputation. You might be able to protect yourself by purchasing from a local store with good customer service, but that probably won’t work in all cases.
That said, we analyzed more than 28,000 customer reviews for 34 fridges, and we were able to pick out a few models that seemed especially prone to major malfunctions within the first few years of ownership.
We’ve pointed them out wherever relevant throughout this guide.
We can also tell you that just a small percentage of most fridge models we analyzed suffered from a major cooling failure—it’s uncommon. Similarly, in our reader survey, just 2.5% of respondents said that their current (or most recent) refrigerator had suffered a cooling failure.
Side-by-sides and top-freezer models were somewhat more prone to minor, nuisance-type problems like noise, broken shelves or handles, and flickering lights than French-door or bottom-freezer models.
In addition, we haven’t seen any proof that spending more on a fridge means it will be more reliable, at least not among non-luxury freestanding fridges. A $4,000 LG French-door fridge seems just as likely to suffer mechanical and electrical problems as an $1,800 LG French-door fridge because they’re built around similar components—and some of those pricier models have higher rates of problems than the midrange models simply because they have more parts that can fail.
Efficiency and sustainability: Much better than they used to be
The first, simplest step toward picking a more sustainable fridge is to make sure it uses climate-friendly R600a refrigerant, as many current models do. If the refrigerant leaks, it’ll have no effect on the ozone layer and a negligible effect on global warming.
R600a is a huge improvement over R134a, which is 1,430 times as strong a greenhouse gas as carbon dioxide and was the most common refrigerant for household refrigerators through 2019 (some popular models still use it).
If your top priority is to use as little energy as possible, check out the Energy Star Most Efficient list. The models there are the most energy-miserly fridges you can buy in the US. They’re mostly small, bland-looking top-freezer models, but the list also includes a few bottom-freezer and French-door models that are sizable and stylish.
Judging by this list, the most efficient style of fridge (in terms of energy use per cubic foot of storage) tends to be a large top-freezer model, which should have plenty of storage for a couple but might feel cramped for a household of four. But the list has plenty of other efficient models in other styles, as well.
We have to note that the Energy Star Most Efficient list feels a little incomplete, or maybe built around questionable criteria. When you do the math on energy use per cubic foot of storage, there are plenty of big, stylish French-door models (for example) that beat out some of the smaller, more homely top-freezer models. Large fridges can also mean fewer trips to the store, which might mean less driving (and almost always energy and emissions savings as a result). Then again, huge fridges also have a way of turning into graveyards for lost, wasted food.
(The standard Energy Star list—not the Most Efficient list—is basically useless. About 3,000 refrigerators fit the program’s voluntary but overly broad criteria, which haven’t been updated since 2014.
)
Finally, a long-lasting fridge tends to have less environmental impact than a fridge that breaks quickly, assuming that the energy use is similar. It’s hard to know which modern fridges will last the longest, though. And longevity isn’t everything: A reliable, decades-old fridge uses a lot more energy than a new one, and sticking with it could potentially have a bigger environmental impact than replacing it.
In the bigger picture of your overall household energy use and emissions, choosing a low-energy fridge has a small impact compared with other upgrades such as choosing a highly efficient electric heating and cooling system, or an electric car, or a source of clean energy like rooftop solar panels. And today’s fridges are much, much more efficient than models were 15 years ago and earlier.
But over a refrigerator’s lifespan (10 years, on average, according to most manufacturers we’ve talked to), you might actually save a few hundred dollars in energy costs if you pick a small, notably efficient model instead of a large, relatively inefficient type.
Even among big fridges, like 36-inch, standard-depth French-door refrigerators, the most efficient models could save $100 over the product’s lifetime compared with a less-efficient version.
If you want to try to thread the needle with a big, good-looking fridge that isn’t on the Energy Star Most Efficient list but is still pretty efficient, here are some rules of thumb to help you narrow your search.
- Side-by-side fridges are the least efficient style. None are on the Most Efficient list. (It’s a matter of thermodynamics.)
- Through-the-door ice and water dispensers tend to make a fridge less efficient, partly because they’re essentially a hole in an otherwise insulated box, and partly because the ice maker has extra work to do. It’s usually a difference of a few dozen kilowatt-hours per year compared with fridges of a similar size and style. You can find a few models with door dispensers on the Energy Star Most Efficient list, but they’re the exception.
- Wide but shallow fridges, like counter-depth French-door models, might represent a happy medium. These fridges are big enough to help minimize shopping trips, they might reduce the amount of time you spend looking for items, and they are compact enough to save some energy.
- When in doubt, check the yellow Energy Guide sticker on any model to get an idea of its energy consumption and estimated costs of operation. The stickers all have text and graphics to represent the range of operating costs within a category; look for a model with a cost on the lower end of the scale.
These fridges are big enough to help minimize shopping trips, they might reduce the amount of time you spend looking for items, and they are compact enough to save some energy.This article was edited by Winnie Yang and Christine Cyr Clisset.
About your guide
Liam McCabe
Liam McCabe is a former senior staff writer for Wirecutter, and has covered the wild world of appliances since 2011. After testing dozens of robot vacuums, he is neither worried about AI nor holding his breath for self-driving cars. He enjoys visiting factories and learning about regulatory loopholes, and has flooded our testing area only three times.
Further reading
-
The Best Bottle Warmers
by Courtney Schley
We heated 50 bottles of formula and breast milk in six bottle warmers and found the Kiinde Kozii is the best one.
-
Readers Respond: More Small Kitchen Ideas
by Erin Price and Ganda Suthivarakom
Our guide to small kitchen ideas struck a chord with space-challenged readers. Some wrote in with suggestions of their own, which we thought we’d share.
Wirecutter is the product recommendation service from The New York Times. Our journalists combine independent research with (occasionally) over-the-top testing to save people time, energy and money when making buying decisions. Whether it’s finding great products or discovering helpful advice, we’ll help you get it right (the first time). Subscribe now for unlimited access.
- About Wirecutter
- Our team
- Staff demographics
- Jobs at Wirecutter
- Contact us
- How to pitch
- Deals
- Lists
- Blog
- Subscribe to our daily newsletter
Dismiss
11 Best Refrigerators Reviews 2022
We updated this article in July 2022 to ensure all pricing is accurate and all picks recommended by the Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Appliances and Culinary Innovation Lab are in stock.
If the home is a family’s universe, the refrigerator is the sun. Everything revolves around it, from breakfasts to-go and healthy lunches to dinners around the table. That’s why getting a new refrigerator is kind of a big deal. There are tons of factors to consider — everything from configuration and dimensions to finishes and special features. You should also ask yourself if you want to invest in a smart refrigerator. Of course, there’s no getting around the price: They’re expensive. But if you want a top pick from a reliable brand that will stand steady in your family’s orbit for years to come, you’re in the right place.
The Good Housekeeping Institute’s Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab evaluates all types of kitchen appliances yearly, from gas ranges to blenders to toaster ovens and beyond. We regularly test fridges evaluating performance and efficiency — each refrigerator is scored on its ability to regulate temperatures and ease of use including the readability of the manual, the functionality of the door handles and refrigerator controls.
We also look at other interior features including drawers, shelves and more.
-
1
Best Overall Refrigerator
36” French Door with Keurig K-Cup Brewing System
GE Profile$3,419 AT WAYFAIR
Read More
$3,419 AT WAYFAIR
-
2
Best Value Refrigerator
Wide French Door Refrigerator
Maytag$2,519 AT MAYTAG.COM
Read More
$2,519 AT MAYTAG.COM
-
3
Best Door-in-Door Refrigerator
InstaView Door-in-Door Refrigerator
LG$2,799 AT LOWE’S
Read More
$2,799 AT LOWE’S
-
4
Best Top Freezer Refrigerator
Top Freezer Refrigerator
Maytag$879 AT HOME DEPOT
Read More
$879 AT HOME DEPOT
-
5
Best Bottom Freezer Refrigerator
Bottom Freezer Refrigerator
LG$1,800 AT BEST BUY
Read More
$1,800 AT BEST BUY
-
6
Best Smart Refrigerator
Family Hub French Door Refrigerator with Ice Maker
Samsung$3,059 AT LOWE’S
Read More
$3,059 AT LOWE’S
-
7
Best Side-by-Side Refrigerator
Side-by-Side Refrigerator
Whirlpool$1,799 AT LOWE’S
Read More
$1,799 AT LOWE’S
-
8
Best Counter-Depth Refrigerator
Café French-Door Refrigerator
GE$3,413 AT AJMADISON
Read More
$3,413 AT AJMADISON
-
9
Best Double Freezer Refrigerator
PerfectCool Series Refrigerator
Miele$8,099 AT AJMADISON
Read More
$8,099 AT AJMADISON
-
10
Best Refrigerator for Wine Storage
800 Series French Door Bottom Mount Refrigerator
Bosch$4,799 AT AJMADISON
Read More
$4,799 AT AJMADISON
Load More
Show Less
Here’s a list of the best refrigerators to buy, according to testing.
Stick around after our picks to learn more about how we evaluate refrigerators plus several shopping tips to ensure you select the right one for your home.
1
Best Overall Refrigerator
GE Profile
36” French Door with Keurig K-Cup Brewing System
GE Profile
$3,419 AT WAYFAIR
2
Best Value Refrigerator
Maytag
Wide French Door Refrigerator
Maytag
$2,519 AT MAYTAG.COM
3
Best Door-in-Door Refrigerator
LG
InstaView Door-in-Door Refrigerator
LG
4
Best Top Freezer Refrigerator
Maytag
Top Freezer Refrigerator
$879 AT HOME DEPOT
5
Best Bottom Freezer Refrigerator
LG
Bottom Freezer Refrigerator
LG
$1,800 AT BEST BUY
6
Best Smart Refrigerator
Samsung
Family Hub French Door Refrigerator with Ice Maker
Samsung
7
Best Side-by-Side Refrigerator
Whirlpool
Side-by-Side Refrigerator
Whirlpool
8
Best Counter-Depth Refrigerator
GE
Café French-Door Refrigerator
GE
9
Best Double Freezer Refrigerator
Miele
PerfectCool Series Refrigerator
Miele
$8,099 AT AJMADISON
10
Best Refrigerator for Wine Storage
Bosch
800 Series French Door Bottom Mount Refrigerator
Bosch
$4,799 AT AJMADISON
11
Best Smudge-Proof Refrigerator
Kenmore Elite
French Door Refrigerator
Kenmore
$2,299 AT LOWE’S
How we test refrigerators
We rate fridges on their ability to regulate the best temperatures for grocery list staples like lettuce, deli meat and frozen foods.
For every model, we score for uniformity of temperatures from shelf to shelf in the refrigerator and freezer compartments, as well as for temperature variations in single areas over time. We test fridges’ ability to maintain moisture on both refrigerator shelves and in crisper drawers. In addition, we evaluate each refrigerator’s ease of use, including the helpfulness of the manual, the type and ease of use of the controls and the comfort of grasping the door handles.
We score interior features including the type of shelves in the refrigerator cavity and on the doors, the ease with which the freezer drawer and baskets could be opened, the presence or absence of crispers with humidity controls and the presence or absence of a meat keeper or deli drawer with temperature controls. All notable features including Wi-Fi connectivity were considered but not rated. Our top Lab pick is the GE Profile Series French-Door Refrigerator, complete with a Keurig K-Cup Brewing System.
It scored highest on temperature maintenance and uniformity testing and wowed our Lab experts with its smart design features. It’s also Wi-Fi enabled, so you can adjust settings, preheat water for coffee and more with the downloadable app.
How to find the best refrigerator for you
When shopping for a new refrigerator online or in a store, these are the main things you want to consider. Once you make your pick, don’t miss our Test Kitchen’s ultimate guide to organizing your fridge.
✔️Configuration: The big players are side-by-sides, top-freezers and bottom-freezers. Side-by-sides require less space for the doors to swing open, but you need to bend down to find food at the base of the fridge and freezer. Bottom-freezers (like French-door models) put the most-used compartment at eye level. Top-freezer fridges cost less but require you to bend to get into the fridge.
✔️Dimensions: Your fridge typically has to fit between counter space, so you’ll need to match the width to the layout of your kitchen.
Built-ins and cabinet-depth models sit flush with counters and cabinets but may be more costly.
✔️Finishes: Stainless steel is the most popular because it has a sleek-yet-neutral look, but some prefer a white or black fridge (or the recently popular black stainless steel and even carbon fiber). Built-ins typically offer exterior paneling that matches your kitchen cabinets. Many modern finishes are fingerprint-resistant. At the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show this year, we saw a lot of customizable patterns, too; a trend to look out for!
✔️Features: Consider the shelving and internal drawers to see if they work for your family’s eating habits. If you like to store a few bottles of wine in the fridge, make sure there’s ample height and/or adjustable shelving; if you order pizza frequently, you’ll probably want a fridge that can fit the box inside. Some fridges also offer humidity controls on crisper drawers, meat or deli drawers and other features for keeping foods at the ideal storage temp.
Why trust Good Housekeeping?
In the Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Appliances and Culinary Innovation Lab, Director, Nicole Papantoniou oversees all of Good Housekeeping’s content and testing related to kitchen appliances, tools, gadgets and gear. She’s been testing kitchen appliances professionally since 2013 and has worked at kitchen appliance companies where she helped develop some popular air fryers as well as many recipes for them. She is trained in classic culinary arts and is a professional recipe developer.
Nicole Papantoniou
Kitchen Appliances & Innovation Lab Director
Nicole (she/her) is the director of the Good Housekeeping Institute’s Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab, where she has overseen content and testing related to kitchen and cooking appliances, tools and gear since 2019.
Betty Gold
Betty Gold is an experienced food writer and editor who worked at Good Housekeeping from 2013 to 2019.
The Best Refrigerator Brands in 2022
Photo: depositphotos.com
Refrigerators are likely used more than any other major appliance in the home, except perhaps for the heating and cooling system. With such frequency of use, it’s important to invest in a durable, energy-efficient fridge from a reliable brand to preserve your food at the right temperature.
To narrow the field when you shop for the best refrigerator, use this guide to learn more about today’s top-quality brands. You’ll gain insight into why consumers trust these manufacturers, what their products are known for, and how their versatile food storage options, innovative features, and attractive designs may function in your kitchen. Also, check out the Editor’s Choice picks from each company to hone in on a top pick that might just suit your family’s needs.
Since a best refrigerator brand is usually known for offering a quality selection of products that serve the needs of its users, we’ve gathered our Top Picks from each of the best refrigerator brands to help you home in on a refrigerator that might suit your family’s needs.
1. KitchenAid
Photo: homedepot.com
About the Brand: In business for more than a century, KitchenAid is an appliance brand that is known for refrigerators and several other kitchen appliances that have a range of versatile options.
Price Range: $$ to $$$$
The KitchenAid brand, founded in 1919 by the Hobart Corporation, is now owned by the Whirlpool Corporation. This company is based in the U.S., which keeps shipping and repair costs down for American consumers. Due to KitchenAid’s affiliation with Whirlpool and its extensive range of products, this brand can offer a wide assortment of sizes, styles, and features unavailable in some smaller brands.
While its advanced products sit at the high end of the affordability scale, most KitchenAid refrigerators are midrange models with modest prices that have the durability and reliability of top-end models. However, if smart-home and Wi-Fi capabilities are important features, look into LG or Samsung (both described below).
Advertisement
Top Products:
- KitchenAid French Door Refrigerator: The brand’s KRMF706ESS refrigerator is a great example of KitchenAid’s ingenuity. It features a five-door configuration and two independent cooling systems, as well as a built-in ice and water dispenser. Get the KitchenAid French Door Refrigerator at The Home Depot for $3,779
- KitchenAid French Door Counter-Depth Refrigerator: With the ability to blend into a minimalist modern kitchen, this counter-depth refrigerator in black stainless with a fingerprint-resisting coating offers 23.8 cubic feet of interior space without interrupting the sleek line of an adjacent countertop profile. Get the KitchenAid French Door Counter-Depth Refrigerator at Best Buy for $4,229
Shop for more KitchenAid refrigerators at:
- Best Buy
- The Home Depot
- Lowe’s
2. LG
Photo: homedepot.
com
About the Brand: LG is considered a high-end electronics brand, so it’s no surprise that the company’s fridges are known for Wi-Fi and smart-home compatibility.
Price Range: $$ to $$$
Founded in South Korea in 1958, LG Electronics stands for Lucky Goldstar and refers to the company’s tagline, “Life’s Good.” It’s a household name across America due to its high-quality televisions, computers, and innovative appliances. Due to the brand’s popularity and a separate U.S. headquarters in New Jersey, repair technicians don’t have problems finding parts, which can be a problem with other internationally-based companies.
Prioritizing innovation over standard functionality, the range of extra features on LG refrigerators can seem a bit daunting at first. Yet some consumers have come to appreciate bells and whistles like voice-activated commands, door-in-door access, and designated door cooling systems to keep items in the doors just as cold as those stored in the main compartments.
These high-tech features do come at a higher cost than more basic models.
Top Products:
- LG Electronics 3-Door French Door Smart Refrigerator: Connect to the LFXS26596S refrigerator through Wi-Fi with a smartphone, tablet, or computer to change the temperature, adjust the ice maker settings, and receive notifications if the door is open or the water filter needs to be replaced. Get the LG Electronics 3-Door French Door Smart Refrigerator at The Home Depot for $3,199
- LG Counter-Depth Refrigerator with Craft Ice: For the frequent entertainer and party host, this counter-depth refrigerator can be a good choice, as it doesn’t interrupt the walking and gathering area by jutting out from the counters. It also makes three kinds of ice, including slow-melting round ice. Get the LG Counter-Depth Refrigerator with Craft Ice at Best Buy for $3,599.99
- LG Top-Freezer Energy Star Refrigerator: If budget is a main driver for a refrigerator purchase, a classic white top-freezer model can be a good fit. This model was rated Energy Star Most Efficient in 2020 and has digital temperature controls and LED panels for a bright, energy-efficient interior. Get the LG Top-Freezer Energy Star Refrigerator at Lowe’s for $699
This model was rated Energy Star Most Efficient in 2020 and has digital temperature controls and LED panels for a bright, energy-efficient interior. Get the LG Top-Freezer Energy Star Refrigerator at Lowe’s for $699Shop for more LG refrigerators at:
Advertisement
- Best Buy
- The Home Depot
- Lowe’s
3. Frigidaire
Photo: homedepot.com
About the Brand: Now a U.S. subsidiary of Electrolux, Frigidaire has been producing refrigerators for more than 100 years, making it one of the most reliable refrigerator brands available.
Price Range: $ to $$$
While the Frigidaire brand is now a U.S. subsidiary of the Stockholm, Sweden-based appliance company Electrolux, the brand began in 1916 as the Guardian Frigerator Company in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and was later renamed Frigidaire when the company was bought by General Motors. This long history of producing high-quality refrigerators, including the first self-contained refrigerator back in 1918, has led to well-deserved recognition as one of the most reliable refrigerator brands on the market.
Frigidaire produces a wide assortment of refrigerators from basic, budget-friendly models to high-end products with features comparable to those from LG and Samsung (often at lower prices). The company name is so firmly established that as late as the mid-1900s, the brand was so synonymous with the product that many Americans referred to any refrigerator as a Frigidaire.
Top Products:
- Frigidaire French Door Refrigerator: Reliable, efficient, and well organized, the FFHB2750TS refrigerator features two French doors plus a pull-out deep freezer with adjustable storage and a built-in filtration system for pure ice and water directly from the fridge. Get the Frigidaire French Door Refrigerator at The Home Depot for $2,114
- Frigidaire Mini Fridge: Whether a small fridge is needed for a hangout space or a small kitchen, this Frigidaire model includes multiple door racks, a box-style freezer, and two adjustable shelves at a low price. Get the Frigidaire Mini Fridge at Best Buy for $159
- Frigidaire Professional Refrigerator Freezer Combo: For busy kitchens that require more than the standard amount of food storage space, this extra-large 19-cubic-foot refrigerator with 19-cubic-foot freezer is offered at a bargain price for this category of fridges. Get the Frigidaire Professional Refrigerator Freezer Combo on Amazon for $7,349
Get the Frigidaire Mini Fridge at Best Buy for $159Shop for more Frigidaire refrigerators at:
Advertisement
- Amazon
- Best Buy
- The Home Depot
4. Whirlpool
Photo: homedepot.com
About the Brand: With a long history in appliance manufacturing, Whirlpool found its niche in the industry with energy-efficient refrigerator designs that keep food cold and utility costs low.
Price Range: $ to $$$
The Whirlpool Corporation, which started out as the Upton Machine Company, didn’t produce refrigerators until it acquired the Seeger Refrigerator Company in 1955.
Today, Whirlpool is well known for manufacturing a range of energy-efficient refrigerators. Whirlpool has nine manufacturing facilities across the U.S. and owns a number of smaller appliance brands, including KitchenAid, Maytag, and Amana.
Expect to find the Energy Star symbol on most of Whirlpool’s refrigerators due to the company’s focus on producing eco-friendly and sustainable appliances, meeting modern consumer demand. This brand also offers a wide range of sizes and features, as well as easy-to-find replacement parts, making repairs for Whirlpool (and its associated brands) an affordable alternative to replacing the entire fridge.
Top Products:
- Whirlpool Bottom Freezer Refrigerator: Designed to be eco-friendly and energy efficient with high-efficiency LED lights, the WRB322DMBM refrigerator is Energy Star–qualified and has a Tier I rating by the Consortium for Energy Efficiency (CEE). Get the Whirlpool Bottom Freezer Refrigerator at The Home Depot for $1,529
- Whirlpool Counter Depth Refrigerator: For smaller spaces, this 24-inch-wide refrigerator offers 12. 7 cubic feet of food storage space with features to max out the space: an overhead can-storage loft, gallon door bin, and bins and shelves that adjust easily. Get the Whirlpool Counter Depth Refrigerator at The Home Depot for $1,299
- Whirlpool 4-Door Refrigerator: For those who enjoy the accessibility of a freezer drawer, this model offers that with a fridge drawer just above. The Energy Star–certified French door refrigerator is available in three fingerprint-resistant finishes. Get the Whirlpool 4-Door Refrigerator at Walmart for $2,499
7 cubic feet of food storage space with features to max out the space: an overhead can-storage loft, gallon door bin, and bins and shelves that adjust easily. Get the Whirlpool Counter Depth Refrigerator at The Home Depot for $1,299Shop for more Whirlpool refrigerators at:
Advertisement
- The Home Depot
- Best Buy
- Walmart
5. Samsung
Photo: homedepot.com
About the Brand: In the appliance manufacturing industry, Samsung specializes in producing refrigerators with high-quality Wi-Fi and smart-home features that can integrate with mobile devices and smart-home systems.
Price Range: $$$ to $$$$
South Korea–based Samsung is renowned for producing high-end electronics and is currently one of the largest smartphone manufacturers in the world. The company was founded over 80 years ago as a trading company, diversifying its interests and entering the electronics industry in the late 1960s.
Samsung today combines innovative technology with reliable appliances, often incorporating features into their refrigerator products like smart-home compatibility, voice commands, remote access, and touch screen displays—high-tech extras that tend to increase the price tag for their products.
Top Products:
- Samsung 4-Door Family Hub Smart Refrigerator: Manage calendars, play music on Spotify, and share pictures with the RF28R7551SR refrigerator thanks to a built-in touch screen that serves as a digital bulletin board. Get the Samsung 4-Door Family Hub Smart Refrigerator at The Home Depot for $3,419
- Samsung 4-Door Flex French Door Refrigerator: This sleek minimalist refrigerator offers a 29. 2-cubic-foot capacity with a built-in water pitcher, UV deodorizing filter, and the ability to customize the lower-right storage to be a fridge or freezer. Get the Samsung 4-Door Flex French Door Refrigerator at The Home Depot for $2,879
- Samsung BESPOKE Flex Column Refrigerator: Available in navy, gray, or white, this slim refrigerator works with modern design styles. It offers flexibility with its convertible door as well as whether it serves as a fridge or freezer. Get the Samsung BESPOKE Flex Column Refrigerator at Best Buy for $1,169.99
2-cubic-foot capacity with a built-in water pitcher, UV deodorizing filter, and the ability to customize the lower-right storage to be a fridge or freezer. Get the Samsung 4-Door Flex French Door Refrigerator at The Home Depot for $2,879Shop for more Samsung refrigerators at:
- The Home Depot
- Amazon
- Best Buy
6. GE Appliances
Photo: homedepot.com
About the Brand: Few manufacturers can match the steadfast durability of GE Appliances’ refrigerators and other household appliances.
Price Range: $ to $$$$
GE Appliances got its start back in 1889 when Thomas Edison’s research was financed by Drexel Morgan & Co.
, merging with Edison’s existing company to form the Edison General Electric Company, shortened to General Electric in 1892. After more than a century of experience in electronics and appliances, GE Appliances is still one of the most popular appliance manufacturers in America.
Advertisement
GE makes quality products with a range of sizes and features consistent with current consumer demand, but their hallmark has long been durability—appliances that can stand up to rough use, like doors being yanked open and slammed shut. The exteriors are typically resistant to stains and dents, while the hinges are thick and robust, preventing doors from bending or breaking.
Top Products:
- GE Appliances Smart 4-Door French Door Refrigerator: The durable stainless steel exterior and robust doors of the PVD28BYNFS refrigerator make it ideal for homes with kids and pets, where household appliances endure considerable wear and tear. Get the GE Appliances Smart 4-Door French Door Refrigerator at The Home Depot for $3,599
- GE Mini Fridge Double-Door Design: With 3. 1 cubic feet of space, this mini fridge has a crisper, tall bottle storage, partial automatic defrost, and interior lighting. Offered in stainless steel, white, and black, the fridge can blend with many design styles. Get the GE Mini Fridge Double-Door Design on Amazon for $319
- GE Counter-Depth Side-by-Side Refrigerator: Offering a built-in look with its counter-depth size, this side-by-side refrigerator’s water filtration uses MWF or XWF filters that reduce pharmaceuticals from water and ice. It is available in four finishes: black, slate, white, and stainless steel. Get the GE Counter-Depth Side-by-Side Refrigerator at Lowe’s for $2,599
1 cubic feet of space, this mini fridge has a crisper, tall bottle storage, partial automatic defrost, and interior lighting. Offered in stainless steel, white, and black, the fridge can blend with many design styles. Get the GE Mini Fridge Double-Door Design on Amazon for $319Shop for more GE refrigerators at:
- The Home Depot
- Amazon
- Lowe’s
7. Maytag
Photo: homedepot.com
About the Brand: Big families and overzealous grocery shoppers appreciate Maytag’s spacious refrigerators.
Price Range: $ to $$$
Now owned by the Whirlpool Corporation, Maytag was founded in 1893 in Newton, Iowa, and started producing refrigerators in 1946, establishing the brand as an American household favorite. While some other brands may focus on high-end features and striking visual designs, Maytag focuses on functionality and spaciousness for its refrigerators.
The company’s big fridges can handle a lot, from bulk grocery orders to holiday leftovers. Do keep in mind that the larger the size, the higher the price.
Advertisement
Top Products:
- Maytag French Door Refrigerator: With a total capacity of just under 25 cubic feet, the Maytag MFI2570FEZ refrigerator has French doors for total or partial access to the fridge and a large pull-out freezer, making it ideal for bulk grocery orders. Get the Maytag French Door Refrigerator at Best Buy for $2,159.99
- Maytag Side by Side Refrigerator: With fingerprint-resistant stainless steel, this refrigerator offers a soft freeze bin that keeps ice cream soft enough to scoop. There is a humidity-controlled crisper, adjustable gallon door bins, and an ice dispensing system that frees up space inside the freezer. Get the Maytag Side by Side Refrigerator at The Home Depot for $1,529
There is a humidity-controlled crisper, adjustable gallon door bins, and an ice dispensing system that frees up space inside the freezer. Get the Maytag Side by Side Refrigerator at The Home Depot for $1,529Shop for more Maytag refrigerators at:
- Best Buy
- The Home Depot
- Lowe’s
8. Café
Photo: homedepot.com
About the Brand: A relatively new brand from GE, Café caters to the selective consumer who’s looking for distinct aesthetic appeal—and willing to pay for it!
Price Range: $$$ to $$$$
The name may not seem familiar, because GE Café became its own niche brand, known simply as Café, in 2018. Though still owned by GE, Café products are made for that portion of the consumer market looking for aesthetic appeal over affordability. Café refrigerators have distinct designs, like LED light walls, which are unique to this brand.
Most Café products include such premium features as built-in water filtration, smart-home integration, auto water dispense functions, and proximity lights that illuminate the fridge when someone approaches.
Good looks and the latest advancements come with a pretty high price tag.
Top Products:
- Cafe Smart 4-Door French Door Refrigerator: This sleek Café CVE28DP2NS1 refrigerator features a bold LED light wall to illuminate the contents and an exterior made of fingerprint-resistant stainless steel. Get the Cafe Smart 4-Door French Door Refrigerator at The Home Depot for $3,779
- Cafe French Door Refrigerator: A French Door counter-depth refrigerator provides a built-in, upscale look in the brand’s stunning matte white finish that offers fingerprint resistance. Get the Cafe French Door Refrigerator at The Home Depot for $2,519
- Cafe Built-In 2-Drawer Refrigerator: For those who want to fit a stylish fridge in a tight space, this 24-inch refrigerator by Cafe can be an excellent choice. From the brand’s customizable professional collection, this fridge has a 5.6-cubic-foot capacity, a door alarm, and soft-close drawers. Get the Cafe Built-In 2-Drawer Refrigerator at Lowe’s for $3,299
Get the Cafe Built-In 2-Drawer Refrigerator at Lowe’s for $3,299Shop for more Cafe refrigerators at:
Advertisement
- Best Buy
- The Home Depot
- Lowe’s
9. Danby
Photo: homedepot.com
About the Brand: Affordable and compact, Danby makes refrigerators that are well suited to condo and apartment living.
Price Range: $ to $$
Founded in Montreal, Quebec, in 1947, Danby started out making hot plates, slow cookers, and an early form of the portable air conditioner. The company spread through Canada and the United States with headquarters in Guelph, Ontario, and locations in Arizona, Alabama, and Massachusetts. Small appliances remain a specialty, and its compact fridges suit one- and two-person apartments and condos.
While they may not have the capacity to hold enough food for the average-size family, Danby fridges often suffice for single people and couples.
And due to their compact size, these refrigerators are typically quite affordable.
Top Products:
- Danby Designer Freezerless Refrigerator: Made for one- or two-person apartments and condos, the Danby DAR110A1WDD refrigerator eschews the freezer to save space and measures a mere 24 inches by 26 inches by 59 inches to sit flush with most kitchen counters. Get the Danby Designer Freezerless Refrigerator on Amazon for $761.79
- Danby Beverage Center: A compact refrigerator, this beverage center offers an illuminated interior and glass door so it’s easy to see what’s inside the 3.1-cubic-foot fridge. Get the Danby Beverage Center on Amazon for $301.88
Shop for more Danby refrigerators at:
- The Home Depot
- Amazon
- Best Buy
10. Bosch
Photo: homedepot.com
About the Brand: The German appliance company with a reputation for sleek and functional designs makes refrigerators that keep food neatly organized.
Price Range: $$$ to $$$$
Operating out of Germany, Bosch was founded in 1886 and now has facilities throughout the world, including a headquarters in Michigan; three research centers in Pennsylvania, California, and Massachusetts; and multiple factories and distribution centers across the U.S. The company produces a wide range of electronics, and its refrigerators are recognized for their attractive appearance and functional designs.
Expect Bosch refrigerators to have adjustable shelves, spacious storage, and multiple compartments, allowing users to customize the temperature and organize items to suit individual needs. The “place for everything” design helps consumers who struggle to keep the fridge tidy.
Advertisement
Top Products:
- Bosch 800 Series French 4 Door Refrigerator: The Bosch B36CL80SNS refrigerator has a pair of French doors at the top, a pull-out freezer drawer at the bottom, and a drawer in the middle where fruits and vegetables can experience the VitaFresh temperature and humidity control system. Get the Bosch 800 Series Refrigerator at The Home Depot for $3,399
- Bosch 500 Series Counter Depth Refrigerator: Featuring a quick ice-making system, this counter-depth refrigerator provides a built-in feel. It is designed to circulate cool air throughout to maintain the ideal temperature, and it is Energy Star qualified. Get the Bosch 500 Series Refrigerator at The Home Depot for $3,199
Get the Bosch 800 Series Refrigerator at The Home Depot for $3,399Shop for more Bosch refrigerators at:
- The Home Depot
- Best Buy
- Lowe’s
11. Haier
Photo: homedepot.com
About the Brand: Based in China, Haier owns both GE and Café brands and makes its own line of refrigerators that are appealing to the average consumer for their simple design and moderate price.
Price Range: $$ to $$$
Haier is a China-based company that was founded in 1984 as the Qingdao Refrigerator Co. The company grew quickly in both popularity and size, eventually acquiring GE’s appliance division in 2016.
Through GE, Haier also owns the Café brand of appliances. Despite these acquisitions, Haier also manufactures its own brand of refrigerator that tends to have a more basic appearance than brands like Samsung or LG.
Haier refrigerators have clean exteriors and simple interiors that are made for functionality. They lack many of the premium features offered by competitors, but the average user can appreciate the reliable design and the affordable price for these refrigerators. However, parts for Haier refrigerators aren’t as easy to find as domestic brands, so repairs can be costly.
Top Products:
- Haier French Door Refrigerator: Bright, high-efficiency LED lighting and clear glass shelves and drawers are what waits inside this elegant Haier HRF15N3AGS refrigerator. Get the Haier French Door Refrigerator at The Home Depot for $1,349
- Haier Top-Freezer Refrigerator: Offered in three finishes, this top-freezer model delivers the basics in a simple design at an affordable price. Get the Haier Top-Freezer Refrigerator at Lowe’s for $449
Get the Haier Top-Freezer Refrigerator at Lowe’s for $449Shop for more Haier refrigerators at:
Advertisement
- The Home Depot
- Best Buy
- Lowe’s
How We Chose the Best Refrigerators
After extensive research reviewing the most popular models from the leading refrigerator brands, we narrowed the field from hundreds of refrigerators to this collection of top-quality models using criteria based on performance, aesthetic appeal, intended use, capacity, and configuration.
While the basic function of all refrigerators is the same—keeping food fresh and cool—there are many ways to achieve this objective through material, design, and technology. The models that made this list include refrigerators in a variety of finishes, sizes, door and drawer configurations, and price points. From smart refrigerators to stylish statement-makers to budget-friendly options, the refrigerators that made the Top Products list are some of the best options to meet today’s food storage needs.
Advertisement
Top Refrigerator Brands To Avoid 2022
A new refrigerator is a big investment. But if you purchase a product that is low in quality, it isn’t just a waste of money–it can also endanger your health. Your refrigerator needs to work reliably to keep your foods and beverages at the appropriate temperature. So, how can you be sure you are making the best buy to keep your food fresh, healthy and safe? Before you invest in the best refrigerator brands, it is important to start by investigating the refrigerator brands to avoid. Be sure to also check out our list of the best kitchen appliance brands for you.
If you don’t have time you can easily jump to the following two sections:
- BAD Refrigerators Brands
- BEST Refrigerators Brands
In this article, we are going to tell you about the least reliable refrigerator brands out there. We will also introduce you to some of the best refrigerator brands 2022 that are renowned for manufacturing top rated refrigerators which receive high marks for customer satisfaction.
These best refrigerator brands combine durability, longevity, excellent cooling, as well as smart features which make routine tasks and food preparation a lot easier. You can also find out more about the mechanics of a refrigerator.
With cool features such as ice makers, french doors, fingerprint resistant stainless steel, excellent storage space, adjustable shelves, smart screens, temperature control, energy efficiency, etc., the best refrigerator brands today are far more stylish, spacious, and technologically advanced.
But first, let’s go over some common problems that can make a fridge an unreliable product. That way, you will know what you need to be on the lookout for when evaluating your options.
What Red Flags Help You Identify Refrigerator Brands to Avoid?
1. Low quality construction and materials.
When manufacturers cut corners with fridge design, you cannot expect to have a positive experience over the long haul. Build quality and materials have a huge impact on the longevity of fridges.
Review feedback on the model you are thinking of purchasing to see whether customers were satisfied with the construction of their refrigerators. Strong materials like stainless steel may help a fridge stand the test of time (this material also looks great in the kitchen). With use, any refrigerator may begin to show signs of wear and tear but you can do a bit research to find out just how long does a refrigerator last, depending on brand and build.
2. Doors that don’t fit right.
You will probably put a lot of thought into the overall dimensions of your fridge. You may carefully measure your space to ensure the right fit for your kitchen. You may also have thought a lot about fridge and freezer capacity. For example, we know how important choosing the right sized fridge can be especially when it comes to selecting the best wine fridges or the best build-in wine cooler.
But just as important is counter depth, and whether the unit fits the spot you picked out. Ensuring that the refrigerator door closes and fits properly is crucial; otherwise, you risk ruining your food items and wasting electricity.
It is essential to check if the refrigerator door closes tightly and properly.
When refrigerator doors do not fit with a nice, tight, even seal all around, you can expect ongoing problems with efficiency. It may be difficult to maintain the right interior temperature in the fridge and freezer with cold air leaking out, and it may take extra energy to keep your food fresh or frozen.
3. Malfunctions.
Quite a few malfunctions can potentially plague a refrigerator. As you research different companies and refrigerator models, look out for complaints about cooling, ice makers, the water dispenser, or wi fi connection issues if you are shopping for a smart refrigerator. If you own a French door refrigerator, these malfunctions are more likely to occur especially if you do not close the doors properly, or slam them too hard. This is also one of the top reasons why your refrigerator stops getting cold.
4. Leaks.
Leaks can be a common problem with some fridge models.
Also, if you are purchasing a water line for your fridge so you can use the dispenser for a constant supply of water and ice, watch out for potential leak issues there as well. There are several reasons why your refrigerator may be leaking water and malfunctioning.
Credits: https://www.freepik.com/fabrikasimf
5. Short or limited warranties.
Whether you are shopping for a French door refrigerator, a side by side model, or any other type of appliance, take a close look at the warranty. How many years does it last? What are its limitations with respect to parts and labor?
The length and comprehensiveness of the warranty is one of the prime determinants of your repair costs should you need to fall back on it. The more gaps there are in your coverage, the more expensive it could potentially be to have to service your refrigerator. Over time, your fridge may show signs of wear and tear and this can be determined if your refrigerator is making strange sounds that seem odd or out of the ordinary.
Additionally, some warranties are complicated. You need to jump through many hoops to use them. That is one of the last things you want to deal with when you need help with your refrigerator or freezer.
6. Pricey parts.
What if you do need to replace a part in your freezer or refrigerator, and the cost is not covered under your warranty?
If parts for a particular model of refrigerator are really expensive, your repair costs could add up quickly should something go wrong. The cost of spare parts may also depend on how much your refrigerator weighs or its brand and build.
7. Long wait times.
How long are you willing to wait on hold to talk with customer service about a problem with your appliances? Ten minutes? Twenty? An hour? More? Some companies are notorious for lengthy wait times on the phone or chat.
On top of that, you do not want to wait a long time to receive a replacement part if you need one; some features may be unusable while you wait.
And what if you need someone to come out to service your appliance in person? If you are stuck waiting for weeks, your refrigerator or freezer could be out of commission in the meantime. Think how much food and money you’ll end up wasting.
8. Bad service.
Last but not least, always check what consumer reports have to say about customer service for a given brand. You do not want to be stuck dealing with support agents who are not knowledgeable, quick, polite, and helpful. Poor customer support can lead to delays in finding critical solutions, and can also add considerably to your stress.
Brand Reliability Can Vary By Refrigerator Type
It is important to know that not every company that manufacturers refrigerators is 100% reliable or otherwise. Indeed, Consumer Reports says, “One major takeaway from the survey: Brand reliability varies by configuration. For example, Frigidaire top-freezers earn an Excellent rating for predicted reliability, but Frigidaire French-doors receive only a Fair score.
”
So, you might not want to purchase a French-door fridge by Frigidaire, but a top-freezer from the same company might make a great choice. If you’re interested in a similar analysis you can check out the top washing machines to avoid.
Top Refrigerator Brands to Avoid
Now that we have gone over a list of things to be on the lookout for when evaluating possible fridge and freezer brands and products, let’s go over a list of some of the least reliable brands that are out there.
1. Viking Refrigerators
If you are in the market for a luxury appliance, one brand you might be considering is Viking Refrigerators. This company specializes in high-end products that are loaded with premium features. Viking sells counter-depth refrigerator models, and is also a French door refrigerator brand.
This company’s appliances do not come cheap. You may spend anywhere from $3,000 to $10,000 on a fridge and freezer from Viking. No one wants to spend that kind of money and run into problems.
Viking does offer long warranties (up to 12 years in some cases). But as of the time of this writing, they only have a little more than 3 stars on the Consumer Affairs website.
Quite a few of the complaints about this brand concern the doors on their refrigerators. It would seem to be common for a door to be misaligned, and thus not open or close correctly. Customers also say that it takes a really long time for the company to deliver a fridge or freezer, and that it likewise can take ages to receive replacement parts when necessary.
One particular model that has received a lot of criticism on Best Buy is the Viking 5 Series Quiet Cool Fridge. Apparently, the ice maker has a flaw that causes the ice to fall out. So, instead of staying in the ice maker where it belongs, it can end up elsewhere in your unit. You should not have to deal with this type of flaw at all, but especially in such an expensive appliance.
Speaking of the ice maker, if this is one of the features that is most important to you in a refrigerator and freezer unit, consider going with an LG model instead that includes Craft Ice(tm) among its features. This special ice maker doesn’t produce ice cubes. Instead, it makes ice spheres. This type of ice has a slower melt time than regular cubes.
2. KitchenAid Refrigerators
The next brand on our list to consider avoiding when shopping for your next refrigerator or freezer model is KitchenAid. The company makes counter-depth, side by side, bottom freezer, and French door refrigerator models. As with Viking, costs can be expensive. For example, the brand’s 2.4 Cubic Ft. Built-In French Door Refrigerator in Stainless Steel is listed on Home Depot at well over $9,000.
On Consumer Affairs, this refrigerator company has received a little under 4 out of 5 stars. Although that is not a bad rating overall, we have seen complaints about their appliances on other sites as well.
Complaints have concerned issues with features such as ice makers, doors, and lights. You do not want to invest in a refrigerator from this brand only to find yourself struggling with a fridge, freezer drawer or door that will not align, or a noisy water dispenser.
Much of the content of bad reviews of refrigerators from KitchenAid focuses on long wait times for repairs. So, some of the issues are similar to those that buyers have faced when dealing with Viking.
3. Maytag Refrigerators
One more brand you might want to avoid when shopping for refrigerators is Maytag. You can find side by side, bottom freezer, French door, and other types of refrigerators from this brand. Maytag has 4 out of 5 stars at Consumer Affairs. As with the others, this is not terrible, but there may be some issues to be aware of with respect to features, quality and service.
Buyers don’t like that the filters for this company’s fridges can be pricey. Their freezers seem to be especially problematic. Issues with the door, cooling, or other freezer features are rampant.
In terms of service, the things buyers complained about are much as one might expect. There have been issues with warranties and policies, and difficulties getting a hold of an agent when needing to access the company’s support team.
Consider These Most Reliable Refrigerator Brands Instead
Now you know what brands you might want to steer clear of when you are choosing something to put in your home kitchen. But what best fridge brands should you think about choosing instead for a side by side, top freezer, or other type of fridge?
There are a lot of choices out there that are worth thinking about. But here are a couple of best fridge brands which a lot of buyers recommend.
1. LG
While LG has similar ratings overall for its products as compared to some of the brands above, we consistently see excellent feedback regarding their refrigerators. We’ve tested many of their refrigerators in store and the manufacturing and electrical components appear first rate and will last a long time. Below are three of the best refrigerators from our best rated refrigerator brand.
LG LFCC22426S 22.8 Cu. Ft. French Door Counter-Depth Refrigerator
One LG model to consider is the LG LFCC22426S 22. 8 Cu. Ft. French Door Counter-Depth Refrigerator. This counter-depth model offers 22 cubic feet of storage space. With the InstaView Door-in-Door, you can knock
on your fridge to illuminate its contents through the tinted glass panel. That means you do not need to even open the door to see what is inside at eye level.
Check Current LG Price
Other exciting features include adjustable bins that slide for easy access, a beautiful door finish that resists smudging, and the ThinQ app you can connect to your fridge with wi fi. Additionally, this impressive fridge is Energy Star(TM) Certified. It features an Inverter Linear Compressor with a 10-year warranty on that component.
Even with this abundance of features and astonishing ease-of-use, the LG LFXC22596S is available for a reasonable price. It also features an ice maker and water dispenser, which are an increasing demand for most new buyers. The ice dispenser functions smoothly and there have not been any notable complaints about this feature.
LG 30 cu. ft. Smart wi-fi Enabled InstaView™ Door-in-Door® Refrigerator with Craft Ice™ Maker
Check Current LG Price
LG 27 cu. ft. Side-By-Side InstaView™ Refrigerator
Check Current LG Price
2. GE
General Electric (GE) is another of the best companies when it comes to manufacturing reliable refrigerators. Additionally, if you are on a budget while shopping for your home, you will be pleased to learn that GE French door refrigerators and other models are affordably priced. Let’s take a look at one product of particular interest.
GE Profile PVD28BYNFS 27.6 Cu.Ft. Stainless French Door Smart Refrigerator
Our recommended fridge from GE is the GGE Profile PVD28BYNFS 27.6 Cu.Ft. Stainless French Door Smart Refrigerator with a Bottom Freezer. This fridge features 27.6 cubic feet of space, and is flush with your counter so that it does not intrude on your kitchen space. .
Features of note include hands-free Autofill, an electronic temperature-controlled drawer, a fingerprint-resistant finish for each door, TwinChill(tm) evaporators, and the option for a second ice dispenser. There is an adjustable shelf and you can drop down the tray, making it easy to organize your food.
Check Price on Amazon
Check Price on Walmart
Check Home Depot Price
3. Liebherr
The Liebherr brand has some best-in-class fridges. Certainly not the cheapest on the market, but then again you get the excellence you pay for with the world class refrigerators.
Liebherr CS1400RIM
Check Current Liebherr Price
Best Refrigerator Brands to Consider – Two Top Rated Fridge Brands to Consider
Samsung
It might surprise you to see Samsung listed among our recommended refrigerator companies, considering you most likely associate the name with electronics. Nevertheless, Samsung has a solid reputation for certain refrigerators.
Check Current Samsung Price
What do buyers like about Samsung fridges? They work well, and offer excellent ease-of-use thanks to smart features. The return window for a Samsung model is often a bit short, but warranties are solid, and the fridges feature long life spans.
Whirlpool
It might surprise you to see us list Whirlpool here after listing Maytag previously among brands to avoid. It is true that Whirlpool owns Maytag, but it bought the brand in 2006, and Maytag still seems to be catching up to what is now its parent company. Regardless, Whirlpool has long enjoyed a sterling reputation for the quality of its refrigerators.
Moreover, buyers report that maintaining Whirlpool fridges is easy, and that it is often possible to carry out basic repairs on their own. Thankfully, it seems rare for a Whirlpool refrigerator to require servicing.
Frequently Asked Questions About Best Refrigerator Brands
Now you have had a chance to learn about some red flags to avoid when choosing a brand for your next refrigerator. You also have learned about some brands you may want to treat with caution, as well as a few that you might want to consider.
Let’s move on to answer a few frequently asked questions about choosing a refrigerator brand.
Q: What brand of refrigerator has the fewest problems?
A: It is important to keep in mind that for any major refrigerator company, there have been customers with good and bad experiences. There can also be variations from one refrigerator to the next. But in general, we have found the best overall feedback for Samsung, Whirlpool, GE, and LG. These seem to be the refrigerator brands with the fewest problems.
Do not forget what we learned from Consumer Reports. Some companies are better at making one type of fridge reliably than they are at making another.
Q: Which refrigerator brand is most reliable?
A: From our research, the refrigerator brands that are the most reliable are LG, GE, Whirlpool and Samsung. It makes sense that these would be the same companies we listed as manufacturing the refrigerators with the fewest problems. Not only can you rely on the quality of the products that these companies make, but you can also rely on the quality of the service they provide.
Q: What are the worst appliance brands?
A: An overview of the worst appliance brands overall is beyond the scope of this article, since we are focusing here on fridges alone. But based on our findings, several of the worst refrigerator brands include Viking, Maytag and KitchenAid.
But one should keep in mind that none of these companies produces poor products overall. In fact, more than one refrigerator from these companies has received high ratings and reviews. These were just the brands we found the most consistent complaints about, especially with respect to customer support.
Obviously, it is best to never need to call upon customer support for your fridge. But if you do, you want to know that the manufacturer is going to have your back.
Q: Are stainless steel fridge brands better?
The best refrigerator brands are often stainless steel. This is because stainless steel is resistant to rust or mold formation. Thanks to its elemental makeup, stainless steel refrigerators are also incredibly durable and long lasting.
Additionally, stainless steel refrigerators can fights off fire and heat that can otherwise deteriorate the exterior body of the fridge. Stainless steel is also easy to maintain and clean, unlike traditional surfaces. You only need to wipe off any smudges or stains and it will be good as new again! These qualities certainly make stainless steel refrigerator brands appealing for any homeowner!
Q: What is the best refrigerator in 2022?
The best refrigerator in 2022 is GE Profile PVD28BYNFS 27.6 Cu.Ft. Stainless French Door Smart Refrigerator. The second best refrigerator in 2022 is LG LFCC22426S 22.8 Cu. Ft. French Door Counter-Depth Refrigerator.
Q: Who makes the most reliable refrigerator?
A: GE, Whirlpool, Samsung and LG all make some of the most reliable side by side refrigerators. But you will also find some other brands do a great job manufacturing high quality side by side fridges. We have even seen some highly-rated products in this department from Maytag or KitchenAid.
That goes back to what we have already talked about a few times in this article. Even a brand that makes unreliable fridges of one type may excel with another type. Just keep in mind that complaints with respect to customer support apply across the board. Your Maytag or KitchenAid side by side fridge may be reliable in general, but if you do end up needing help, you will be dealing with the same support team. If that team is unreliable, that is going to cause issues.
Q: How do I choose best brand of refrigerator?
A: The first step to choosing a fridge is to think about the configuration of your kitchen. How much space do you have to work with? Also consider capacity. How much room do you want inside the unit to store your food? How much fresh food do you eat versus frozen food? What features are important to you? Do you want an ice maker or a water dispenser?
Once you figure out what size and type of refrigerator you want to buy, you can think about the features that are important to you. You can consider one with a water dispenser or an ice dispenser. You can also check whether its shelves are adjustable and whether it comes with smart features.
Some buyers may be looking for a lot of bells and whistles, while others may be satisfied with a more basic refrigerator. Luckily the handles are not as plentiful like when selecting the best kitchen cabinet hardware, but in either case, just make sure you are getting a well-constructed unit backed by a great company.
Another important consideration is energy efficiency. Look for the Energy Star label, and pick a product that will be eco-friendly and save you money on your energy bills. It might be worth spending more money for an energy-efficient fridge upfront instead of getting a less expensive model that consumes more power. You will cut back on your long-term costs that way, which will ultimately end up making up for the extra you spent on the purchase.
Lastly, you should also think about aesthetics. While not as important as practical considerations, the appearance of your refrigerator does matter. Indeed, all things being equal, if it is between two products that both have the features and reliability you are looking for, the difference in looks between them might be the factor that settles you on one fridge and not the other.
Q: What type of fridge do I need?
A: There are four main door styles of fridges. You can get one with the freezer drawer on the top or in the bottom. The top freezer refrigerators are the most common and traditional types found, but modern fridge designs are changing.
French door models feature a pair of doors for the fridge rather than a single door. Finally, one more option is a side by side model. With this type of fridge, instead of the freezer drawer going above or below the fridge, the configuration places them next to each other, one on the left, and one on the right.
There is a good chance you grew up with top freezer refrigerators, and may prefer these because of their familiarity. But the majority of buyers nowadays are leaning toward French door models, unlike the top freezer model.
Who should consider getting a side by side model? These types of refrigerators dedicate more space to the freezer drawer. So, they make the most sense if frozen food is a large part of your diet. Otherwise, you probably will prefer one of the three other configurations.
Ultimately, you will need to decide what configuration you like best. It is a highly subjective personal preference, and there is no “right” answer.
Summary of Top Refrigerator Brands
LG refrigerator rank about the most reliable refrigerator brands. You can shop all the LG refrigerators here. But now you have had a chance to check out some of the data on different brands that manufacture refrigerators. We hope that you find this overview helpful when making decisions about what products to consider for your own home use.
Remember, even the companies listed here as brands to potentially avoid may have some high-quality products. Likewise, even the more reliable brands can sometimes produce some duds. So, it is wise to do your research before you settle on a brand and a model for your next refrigerator and freezer.
Since you’re interested in refrigerators you also might be interested in read our Best Undercounter Refrigerator Reviews or our reviews about Nugget Ice Makers.
8 Best Refrigerator Brands of 2022
By
Emma Phelps
Emma Phelps
Emma is an Updates Writer for The Spruce, covering every commerce beat under the brand. Before joining the team, she wrote under home, culture, and lifestyle beats at Southern Living. She received her Bachelor of Arts in leadership studies and journalism from University of Richmond in 2021.
Learn more about The Spruce’s
Editorial Process
Updated on 09/18/22
Reviewed by
Johnathan Brewer
Reviewed by
Johnathan Brewer
Johnathan Brewer is a home improvement expert with over two decades of professional experience as a licensed general contractor specializing in kitchen and bath. He has been featured on HGTV’s “Super Scapes,” “Curb Appeal the Block,” “Elbow Room,” DIY Network’s “House Crashers,” “This Old House,” and OWN Network’s Emmy award winning show, “Home Made Simple.” Jonathan is also a member of The Spruce Home Improvement Review Board.
Learn more about The Spruce’s
Review Board
We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best
products—learn more about
our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.
The Spruce / Chloe Jeong
A reliable refrigerator is essential in every home, so it’s important to buy the best. We researched all of the top refrigerator brands, evaluating quality, inventory, available features, warranty details, and overall value, to help you add this key appliance to your kitchen.
Our eight favorite brands include giants like GE, LG, Frigidaire, and Maytag with a few worthy runners-up like Danby and Magic Chef that specialize in compact options for your kitchen, basement, or a dorm room.
Here are the best refrigerator brands to suit your food storage needs.
LG
Buy on WalmartBuy on Best BuyBuy on Lg.com
What We Like
-
Makes basic, mid-grade, and premium models
-
Available in stores and online
-
Thoughtful design features
What We Don’t Like
LG has been a leader in technology with their televisions, speakers, and other top-of-the-line devices for several years. Their kitchen appliances also run the gamut from basic to premium, and prove to be a reliable addition to any household, plus you can shop for them online, or in store.
Some of LG’s latest refrigerator models include thoughtful features like door-in-door storage—a hidden door within the refrigerator door that’s meant for accessing and storing your most-reached-for items. InstaView models allow you to knock twice on the door to see a snapshot of the contents inside, without having to open up the fridge and let the cold air out. Door cooling also ensures food items stored in door compartments receive extra ventilation.
If you thought state-of-the-art fridges and craft ice makers made LG out of your budget, think again. LG also has an extensive line of reasonably priced refrigerators that still feature innovative designs, Energy Star certified cooling, and excellent storage.
If you’re looking for a fridge that doesn’t have all the bells and whistles, but delivers on design and capacity, the LG LRFCS25D3S 25-cubic-foot French Door Refrigerator is a strong contender. This model’s sleek design, coupled with a 10-year warranty on the linear compressor, make it an ideal choice for a starter fridge.
Although LG’s customer service isn’t as strong as other brands, it’s still a reliable and long-lasting brand that offers refrigerators for a variety of budgets and lifestyles.
Image by GE.
Buy on WayfairBuy on WalmartBuy on Geappliances.com
What We Like
What We Don’t Like
Like other appliance giants, GE (which stands for General Electric) manufactures a variety of kitchen and household appliances. They’re best known for their durability and reliability.
The price point of GE refrigerators, compared to other brands, isn’t too high either. Their line of French door fridges is more expensive, but only because each model includes features like door-in-door storage, a hands-free water dispenser, and built-in WiFi. Notably, their highest-end models even feature a Keurig dispenser so you can fill your water bottle and coffee cup in a snap.
One particular model, the GE Profile PVD28BYNFS 27.6-cubic-foot French Door Smart Refrigerator includes a swiveling door bin, which can help you reach your favorite items in the fridge without having to open the entire door. It also features an LED light wall, which illuminates the entire interior of the fridge, making your viewing experience feel just a bit more luxurious. This model also includes an adjustable temperature drawer that can be programmed between four settings for specific food and drinks.
Most GE appliance models come with a 1-year warranty, and some refrigerators come with a 5-year warranty on the sealed refrigeration system.
You can shop for GE refrigerators at Best Buy, Home Depot, Lowe’s, and you can shop for the newest models online. GE’s customer service also includes a repair fleet available in certain major cities.
Lowe’s
Buy on WalmartBuy on Best BuyBuy on Whirlpool.com
What We Like
What We Don’t Like
No matter the refrigerator type—French door, side-by-side, bottom-freezer, or top-freezer—Whirlpool has well-made features that sets it apart from competitors.
Aside from Whirlpool’s models being priced competitively, they’re also energy-efficient, helping you store groceries for your household and keep your bills at a minimum at the same time.
French door designs feature tiered freezer storage, infinity slide shelves for ample room and accessible snacks, and panoramic LED lighting.
Adjustable gallon door bins and in-door ice storage make their side-by-side models practical and convenient for users with a minimalist aesthetic in mind.
While Whirlpool doesn’t include all the bells and whistles that other brands might, they focus on the quality and functionality of their products. The Whirlpool WRS321SDHZ 21.4-cubic-foot Side-by-Side Refrigerator is a more budget-friendly option for someone looking for a similar look to a French door refrigerator without the extremely high price tag.
Some consumers are also partial to Whirlpool products because their fridges tend to last longer and require fewer repairs. You can find Whirlpool refrigerators at any major appliance distributor or online.
Courtesy of P.C. Richard & Son
Buy on WayfairBuy on Best BuyBuy on Frigidaire.com
What We Like
What We Don’t Like
Frigidaire remains an easy choice for many consumers because of its good reputation within the refrigerator market. Despite not having significant, standout features, Frigidaire’s designs are competitively priced and include beloved features. You can find top picks with an ice and water dispenser or a narrow build, both of which have become must-haves for many homes.
Frigidaire appliances are available online at Wayfair and in stores like Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Best Buy.
Frigidaire’s newest model, the Frigidaire Gallery GRMC2273BF 21.5-cubic-foot Counter-Depth 4-Door French Door Refrigerator offers convenience and plenty of storage. A collapsible shelf can easily be pushed back to make room for tall pitchers, and a “Custom-Flex Temp” drawer can be used as a refrigerator or freezer.
While Frigidaire’s models might not have the newest smart features, their models are reliable and sure to last. Plus, they’re often outfitted with a range of function-forward features—like the PureAir air filter and TwinTech cooling system—that work behind-the-scenes to keep your food fresh, refrigerator ventilated, and energy bills at a minimum.
You can find several Energy Star certified models within this brand’s selection.
The Best Places to Buy a Refrigerator for Your Kitchen
Image by Maytag.
Buy on Lowe’sBuy on Best BuyBuy on Maytag.com
What We Like
What We Don’t Like
Maytag’s models don’t include industry-first features, but they do prioritize dependability and functionality. Most of their models offer spacious storage, no matter what type of refrigerator you’re in the market for. Their price tags also tend to be lower compared to other brands.
You can find Maytag refrigerators online and in home improvement stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s, or you can check out Best Buy’s selection.
One of their latest models, the Maytag MRT311FFFZ 20.5-cubic-foot Top-Freezer Refrigerator has a generous capacity and includes their PowerCold feature, which cools down the fridge with the push of a button. This model also features bottom-mounted crisper drawers, which makes for an easier user experience, if your product drawers tend to be overflowing. A gallon door storage section also creates extra room on the shelves for food items like condiments or a container of milk. It’s also compatible with an ice maker, if you’d like to purchase this must-have separately.
KitchenAid
Buy on Home DepotBuy on Best BuyBuy on Kitchenaid.com
What We Like
-
Brand leader across all kitchen products
-
Extra-tall models available
-
5-door model suited for home chefs
What We Don’t Like
-
Higher price points
KitchenAid is known for its mid-century, heavy-duty mixers, but the brand also makes top-of-the-line refrigerators. The brand, known as the luxury end of Whirlpool’s appliances, has been offering virtually everything that you could need in a kitchen for years. All the standard configurations, like French doors, side-by-side, top-freezer, and bottom-freezer, are available through KitchenAid. However, their counter-depth model with extra-tall storage is a stand-out on their roster.
KitchenAid refrigerators typically offer high-performing, long-lasting features that will complement any kitchen, though you may run into some reliability and quality issues from time to time. Notably, some of the refrigerators can be customized so they’re “hidden” within your cabinetry.
Some of the most noteworthy features of the units include targeted temperature control and food-prep storage, which home chefs will love. There’s also a 5-door refrigerator that takes organization to a new level: the KitchenAid KRMF706ESS 25.8-cubic-foot 5-Door French Door Refrigerator. With three pull-out drawers that offer custom temperature settings and a three-tiered freezer section, you certainly won’t run out of room for your fresh and frozen food with this fridge. However, it is paired with a hefty price point, as are many KitchenAid fridges.
You can shop for KitchenAid refrigerators online and in stores where other appliances are sold.
The Best Refrigerators With the Features You Need
Courtesy of Best Buy
Buy on Home DepotBuy on Best BuyBuy on Cafeappliances.com
What We Like
What We Don’t Like
The appliances from Café prioritize style in addition to functionality, making them some of the most expensive options on the market. If you’re shopping for a refrigerator—or a new range, microwave, dishwasher, or coffee maker—and have a large budget, this will be the brand to check out.
You’ll be given the option to customize the exterior of your unit so it matches the aesthetic in the rest of your home. Plus, many of Café’s appliances include smart features, such as the ability to connect to WiFi and be controlled from your phone.
When it comes to fridges, the brand also provides a selection of models with and without a water dispenser. There are counter-depth units, including the Café CYE22TP4MW2 22. 2-cubic-foot French Door Counter-Depth Refrigerator, which has separate evaporators to ensure your food is stored in an environment that promotes freshness and a hot water dispenser.
Other noteworthy models you can shop include side-by-side, French door, built-in, and quad-door fridges. Just keep in mind: All of these models are high-end, and they typically come with a hefty price tag. As GE’s luxury and style-driven brand, this is to be expected, though.
If you’re hoping to create a customized model, you will have to shop online. Some stores like Best Buy and Walmart offer a limited selection online and in store.
Find out the Best Time to Buy a Refrigerator
Courtesy of Lowe’s
Buy on Home DepotBuy on Best BuyBuy on Bosch-home.com
What We Like
-
Customized paneling available
-
High customer satisfaction
-
High-capacity designs
What We Don’t Like
Bosch’s premium refrigerator designs are ranked high in customer satisfaction and rank among best sellers across home appliance websites. However their premium designs and features come with a higher price tag. From chic, built-in refrigerators with custom paneling to stainless steel models with designated beverage cooler drawers, Bosch easily competes with any of the high-tech refrigerator brands purely for their effortless design and long-lasting performance.
If you’re in the market for a paneled, built-in refrigerator that blends seamlessly with your kitchen, check out the Bosch B36IT905NP Benchmark Series 19.4-cubic-foot Counter-Depth Built-In French Door Refrigerator. This stylish model includes a Home Connect feature that allows you to control the temperature of your refrigerator from an app. You can also use your Amazon Alexa device to control this fridge with your voice and make your smart home even smarter. While this model does not include a water and ice dispenser, it’s worth the price tag for its custom appearance, ice maker, and cooling capabilities.
You can shop for Bosch refrigerators at Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Best Buy. You can search for local distributors on Bosch’s website.
The 6 Best French Door Refrigerators of 2022
- Samsung: Another brand known for its leading efforts in technology, Samsung refrigerators include their Family Hub feature, which allows you to peruse your calendar and grocery shop from a screen on the refrigerator door. You can purchase Samsung refrigerators online and in stores. Best Buy is always a great store option, especially if you’re hoping to learn more about specific smart features on refrigerator models. It’s important to note: While Samsung may be a leader with its smart features, several of their models have ice maker issues and compressor failure reports. LG and GE smart fridges will offer similar technology with fewer reports of major cooling issues.
- Danby: Danby specializes in designing fridges that are ideal for small-space living. You can find mini fridges and compact units under this brand that are great for a dorm room or extra drink storage in your garage.
However, Danby’s specialization in these smaller units means that you won’t find many other models under the brand. You can shop for Danby refrigerators online through Amazon, Wayfair, and even Target, or in other stores where appliances are sold like Best Buy, Home Depot, and Walmart.
- Magic Chef: Magic Chef, another reliable brand in the mini fridge market, might not offer as many aesthetically-pleasing models as competitors, but they prioritize function with every pick. Most of their designs feature maximum organization options and last long past what you’d expect for their size. You can also find fun retro designs, similar to SMEG, under this brand name if you’re looking for a pop of color in your kitchen. Some of Magic Chef’s models have issues with cooling, which may be attributed to their size. Be sure to occasionally clean your refrigerator’s coils and fan so they operate at their highest capability. You can purchase Magic Chef refrigerators online from Wayfair or in store at Home Depot and Lowe’s.
Types of Refrigerators
There are four main types of refrigerators: top-freezer, bottom-freezer, side-by-side, and French door.
- A top-freezer refrigerator has two doors, one that opens to the fridge portion and another that opens to the freezer portion.
- A bottom-freezer refrigerator is often easier to access because food is stored at eye level, while the freezer portion is at the bottom of the fridge, typically accessible via a pull-out drawer.
- Side-by-side and French door refrigerators are favored for their stylish exteriors, complete with a panel-ready design or sleek handles and an ice and water dispenser. However, they can be more expensive and even less spacious.
Brands like Maytag and Frigidaire offer many affordable top-freezer options, while LG and GE are known for their high-end and high-tech French door models.
Price Point
When picking out a new appliance, it’s always key to consider your budget, and whether the features you’ll receive are actually useful and functional. All brands price their refrigerator models according to the specific features included and the design of the refrigerator.
- Brands that offer the latest technology on their refrigerators, such as GE, LG, and Samsung tend to be more expensive than other brands like Frigidaire and Maytag.
- The Café brand allows certain models to be customized with hardware and panels that match kitchen cabinetry, which also places them at a more expensive price point.
Customization Options
Customization options, such as hardware and panel-ready designs, can make your new appliance blend in with the style of your kitchen so much more. While these options are often expensive and not offered in store, you can explore them online with renderings and even work with a designer to find the right match for you.
- Café, Bosch, and KitchenAid all offer customization options for certain types of fridges, beyond just picking out the finish, ice maker, and shelving arrangement you like.
In general, customization options are usually a staple of luxury brands that marry form with function.
Where You Can Shop
Well-known brands like GE, LG, Samsung, Frigidaire, and KitchenAid are typically available in big-box stores such as Lowe’s and Home Depot.
One of the perks of shopping in store is being able to experience the finish and features of certain models before deciding to take an appliance home with you. You can also browse in store, then wait for online sales to pop up on your favorite model.
Other lesser-known or luxury and style-driven brands, such as Bosch and Café, are typically available solely online.
Online shopping often offers more flexibility on delivery and customization options that big-box stores may not.
FAQ
-
LG has received a lot of attention for their craft ice feature. It makes spherical ice, perfect for entertaining and eliminating the need to fuss with ice molds.
If you’re looking for a reliable filtration system and don’t need sphere-shaped ice, then you may want to check out a Bosch refrigerator. Their filtration system and ice makers allow users to access up to 40 cups of fresh, filtered ice per day.
-
Home improvement stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s are great places to start your refrigerator search. They often offer a wide selection of brands and price points, and have an easily accessible website, if you prefer to shop online. You could also shop at Best Buy for refrigerators with smart technology or newer features to learn from their sales associates about what features would best suit your lifestyle and needs. Amazon and Wayfair are great options for a shopper who prefers to shop online, or is in the market for a mini fridge, wine fridge, or beer fridge.
Checking out your local appliance store is a great option, as well. They might offer speciality sales, in addition to delivery and installation services. While a big-box store may also offer these services, in addition to appliance bundling, their customer service and return policies may not be as great or flexible.
-
Most refrigerator models typically can last 12 years. Models with fewer features can last as long as 20 years. To help your appliance last, you should care for it properly and follow all maintenance instructions listed in your user manual. Be sure to clean the condenser coils, check its leveling, and change water filters regularly. Maintaining your refrigerator properly can help ensure it doesn’t need to be replaced prematurely.
Emma Phelps is the updates writer for all of The Spruce’s home beats. Throughout her career, she’s researched and evaluated the best quality products within budget-friendly price ranges. When researching the best refrigerator brands, she considered consumer reviews and satisfaction surveys, annual appliance rankings, and overall brand performance. She’s not only experienced in researching appliances, but also has written about home improvement, interior design, and organization. You can find more of her home-related writing on SouthernLiving. com.
Best Refrigerators 2022
Finding the best refrigerator for your family is a big task and you don’t want to be left out in the cold. Not only does this larger-than-life appliance play a vital role in keeping your perishable foods fresh, it has to seamlessly blend into your kitchen décor while serving as a place to hang important reminders, photos and family artwork. And, of course, you have to look at it on a daily basis—so it might as well be aesthetically pleasing, too.
The Bosch 800 Series is counter-depth for a streamlined aesthetic.
Best Buy
A refrigerator is a big purchase no matter how you slice it: Even less expensive refrigerators aren’t cheap. If it’s been a minute since you bought a fridge (or if you’ve never bought one before), you might be surprised to know that today’s refrigerators have lot of bells and whistles that past models didn’t offer up. Water and ice dispensers are pretty standard now, and some fridges even offer up smart features like the ability to hunt down recipes, play YouTube videos and surf the web. Yes, really.
If you’ve casually perused the refrigerator market, you already know there are a lot of options out there—and it can get overwhelming. But here, we’ve done the hard work for you. After researching the best refrigerator brands and combing through customer reviews, we’ve determined that the picks below are the best of the best. From wallet-friendly fridges to top of the line appliances, there’s something in the mix for everyone.
- Best Refrigerator Overall: Maytag French Door Refrigerator
- Best French Door Refrigerator: GE French Door Refrigerator
- Best Counter-Depth Refrigerator: Bosch 800 Series
- Best Top Freezer Refrigerator: Samsung Top Freezer Refrigerator
- Best Bottom Freezer Refrigerator: Whirlpool Bottom Freezer Refrigerator
- Quietest Refrigerator: LG French Door Refrigerator
- Best Energy-Saving Refrigerator: LG Door-In-Door Refrigerator
- Best Mini Fridge: Insignia Mini Fridge with Top Freezer
Best Refrigerator Overall
A Classic Option That Checks Off All The Boxes
Home Depot
Maytag French Door Refrigerator
Dimensions: 32. 9 x 35.6 x 70.1 inches | Total Capacity: 25 cubic feet
While smart features like Wi-Fi and touchscreens can be a nice luxury, they’re not the most important features of a fridge. Maytag built this 25 cubic feet refrigerator to check all the most important boxes. It’s available in black or white, but it’s the fingerprint resistant stainless steel where this appliance shines—literally, since most messes clean easily off the finish. And the ice and water dispenser only adds $100 to the price, making it a great value.
Inside, this model has bright, energy-efficient LED lighting and a variety of temperature- and humidity-controlled zones. One of the most interesting features is the fridge’s temperature-controlled Wide-N-Fresh Deli Drawer, which is oversized to accommodate large party platters and deli trays. In addition, Maytag’s PowerCold feature is a quick-chill setting you can enable when you bring groceries home to quickly get them down to their ideal temperature.
Pros:
- Fingerprint resistant
- Large deli drawer
- Quick chill option
Cons:
- Shelving can give under too much weight
Best French Door Refrigerator
A French Door Refrigerator With Practical Shelving
Home Depot
GE French Door Refrigerator
Dimensions: 34.8 x 35.8 x 69.9 inches | Total Capacity: 27.8 cubic feet
French door refrigerators are a favorite in many homes because you get a spacious cool zone on top with wide shelves and large storage bins that create lots of organizational options. GE’s take on the format includes twin chill evaporators that give you more control and accuracy over the climate in the fresh food and freezer sections. There are also humidity-controlled drawers to keep vegetables fresh and spill-proof glass shelves that prevent liquids from leaking onto lower shelves.
You may also appreciate the fridge’s showcase LED lighting and in-door ice maker with an integrated water filtration system. It comes in three colors—slate black, slate and stainless steel—but the smudge- and fingerprint- proof slate black is our favorite, giving your kitchen a sleek, modern feel.
Pros:
- Different color options
- Good climate control
Cons:
- Protective film can be tricky to remove at first
Best Counter-Depth Refrigerator
An Attractive Option That Compliments Any Decor
BestBuy
Bosch 800 Series Counter-Depth Refrigerator
Dimensions: 28.8 x 35.6 x 7 inches | Total Capacity: 20.5 cubic feet
Counter-depth refrigerators are something of a paradox; with a smaller footprint so they don’t stick out past your counters for a streamlined, almost built-in look, they tend to cost a little more yet offer less storage space. But for those who value the aesthetics, the trade-off is worth it. If you’re going to spend a little more on a counter-depth fridge, you should probably make it one of the most versatile and convenient models you can buy: Bosch’s Counter-Depth Refrigerator.
Among its many features, this stainless steel fridge has a somewhat flexible storage configuration that’s designed to maximize space, an internal water dispenser, a filter that absorbs food odors and Bosch’s VitaFreshPro system, which automatically balances temperature and humidity. With the handy Home Connect app, you can remotely control your fridge’s temperature and lighting as well as run diagnostics. (Plus, it’ll tell you if someone left the fridge open.)
Pros:
- Smaller footprint
- Companion app available
Cons:
- Less storage space than the average fridge
Best Top Freezer Refrigerator
An Affordable Option With Two Special Features
Best Buy
Samsung Top-Freezer Refrigerator
Dimensions: 31.9 x 32.9 x 67.8 inches | Total Capacity: 21.1 cubic feet
This Samsung Top-Freezer Refrigerator has two unique features that make it one of the best in this category. The first is a feature, fittingly named FlexZone, that allows the fridge compartment to convert freezer space into more fridge space. If you always find yourself needing an extra shelf of storage in your fridge, this feature was made for you. The other is twin cooling, which maintains high levels of humidity to keep your fruits and vegetables fresher longer while also maintaining a dry freezer to lower the chances of freezer burns ruining your frozen foods.
This fridge also includes removable glass shelves, gallon door storage, humidity-controlled crispers and a slide-and-reach pantry for easy access to your favorite foods. The freezer itself features an automatic ice maker that can produce up to 3.7 pounds of ice a day. The LED lighting throughout offers a brighter and more energy-efficient way to see your food. It’s available in two finishes: stainless steel and black stainless steel.
Pros:
- Ability to convert freezer space into fridge space
- Sizable ice maker
Cons:
- Ice maker can be noisy at times
Best Bottom Freezer Refrigerator
A Bottom Freezer Refrigerator With Generous Storage Capacity
Home Depot
Whirlpool Bottom Freezer Refrigerator
Dimensions: 33. 4 x 32.8 x 70 inches | Total Capacity: 22 cubic feet
Bottom freezers have become a lot more popular than top freezer fridges in recent years—not only does that put the lion’s share of your fresh food at eye level, but the slide-out drawer approach to the bottom freezer is usually both larger and a lot more efficient. Case in point is this Whirlpool bottom freezer fridge that has a generous 22 cubic feet of storage (15.5 for fresh food and 6.5 for frozen) with a built-in ice maker. The digital temperature controls are located in the fridge and make it easy to precisely set the climate in both food zones.
The lined glass shelves help to contain spills for quicker cleanup. It also includes bright LED lighting, humidity-controlled crispers and Whirlpool’s Accu-Chill Temperature Management System that is designed to sense the temperature of foods in the fridge and adapt, only activating the compressor when necessary to keep things sufficiently cool while also saving energy.
Pros:
- Large freezer capacity
- Energy-efficient Accu-Chill Temperature Management System
Cons:
- No water or ice dispenser
Quietest Refrigerator
A Whisper-Quiet Option With A French Door Design
Best Buy
LG French Door Refrigerator
Dimensions: 29.8 x 35.5 x 68.5 inches | Total Capacity: 21.6 cubic feet
If you’re on the hunt for a very quiet fridge model with a French Door style and an affordable price, you can’t miss this option. The LG French Door Refrigerator’s features include energy-efficient LED lighting; adjustable, spill-proof shelves; four types of freezer storage for versatility; and five adjustable gallon-size door bins plus two half-width ones.
If butter, cheese and yogurt are popular foods in your household, this fridge is a perfect match, as it contains a separate, closed storage area for dairy items that’s designed to make them easily accessible while reducing the risk of cross-contamination. The refrigerator also has a door alarm, which is especially helpful if you have kids who grab a snack and then forget to close the fridge or freezer before leaving the kitchen.
Pros:
- Virtually silent
- Auto pull-out freezer drawer
- Door alarm
Cons:
- Not fingerprint resistant
- No water dispenser
Best Energy-Saving Refrigerator
A French Door Fridge That Makes It Easy to Grab and Go
Best Buy
LG Door-In-Door Refrigerator
Dimensions: 34.3 x 34.8 x 69.8 inches | Total Capacity: 27 cubic feet
Door-in-door models like this one help conserve a bit of energy and keep the main fridge compartment cool by incorporating a small front compartment in the door for frequently-used items. When you knock on it twice, the small space lights up to show you what’s on hand, and you can easily grab a drink or snack without opening the main door and exposing half your fridge.
Other notable features of the LG Door-in-Door Refrigerator include its large Glide N’ Serve drawer, designed for large party trays and deli items, and special cooling features. The fridge has built-in digital sensors that monitor temperature and humidity, while the constant cold air from its Door Cooling+ feature maintains the proper temperature for what’s stored in the doors. This fridge model’s water dispenser also goes beyond the basic—it’s NSF-certified and filters more effectively than the brand’s previous filters.
Pros:
- Large capacity
- Door-cooling feature
Cons:
- No external water dispenser
Best Mini Fridge
The Perfect Compact Option For Smaller Homes Or Dorm Rooms
BestBuy
Insignia Mini Fridge with Top Freezer
Dimensions: 20.5 x 19.1 x 33.4 inches | Total Capacity: 3 cubic feet
This two-door, stainless steel mini fridge from Best Buy’s house brand Insignia has a completely separate freezer compartment (with a 0. 9 cubic foot capacity) that will make you wish you had a mini fridge like this in college.
This compact fridge includes features found in standard sized refrigerators, such a transparent produce drawer and an adjustable thermostat, while the fridge door has a rack specifically for canned drinks and can also hold taller items. One of the two shelves is adjustable, offering two height options. Note that as with most mini fridges, the Insignia Mini Fridge’s freezer doesn’t perform auto-defrost.
Pros:
- Space efficient
- Has separate freezer
Cons:
- Built-in door storage is tight
- Only one color option
What To Look For When Buying A Refrigerator
There are a lot of different features to consider when shopping for a fridge. Keep these in mind while you shop.
Size
Your fridge is going to need to fit into its designated space in your kitchen. Measuring out your space in advance—including height, depth and width—is crucial to getting your purchase right the first time. You’ll also want to leave a few inches of clearance on each side so it’s not wedged in there.
Configuration
You might like a French door fridge with the freezer on the bottom, or prefer one that puts the freezer and fridge side by side. Other people prefer to have a classic freezer-on-top style. Knowing your wishes in advance will help you narrow down the field.
Finish
Today’s refrigerators come in a range of finishes, including some that are fingerprint resistant. Whether you want a traditional white, sleek stainless steel or cool black, there’s a finish out there for you.
Water/Ice Dispensers
For some people, having a water and ice dispenser in the refrigerator door is a must; for others, they will go unused. Figure out in advance what your preference is.
Other Features
Fridges offer up plenty of additional bells and whistles, including water filtration systems, a built-in Keurig and smart features that allow you to see inside your appliance while you’re at the store. Of course, these will cost you. You’ll want to make sure the refrigerator you choose is the right fit for your lifestyle—and budget.
What Are The Best Refrigerator Brands?
Some big names that you can trust—and easily find at mainstream retailers—include LG, Samsung, Whirlpool and Bosch. A couple of highly-rated models to consider from those brands are the LG French Door Refrigerator and the Whirlpool Bottom Freezer Refrigerator, both above.
How Long Do Refrigerators Last On Average?
Every refrigerator is different, and factors like how much you use your fridge and how much of a beating it takes over the years add up. However, most fridges last, on average, about 12 years.
When Should I Replace My Fridge?
There are a few things that can signal it’s time to get a new fridge. If you notice your food is regularly sweaty, it can be a sign that your refrigerator isn’t able to keep up with the demand. A refrigerator that becomes loud, causes a jacked-up utility bill, or gives off heat from the back are all signs that things aren’t operating the way they should.
Ditto if you find that your freezer keeps having an icy buildup that you have to chisel out, despite defrosting it. And, if you find that all of this is happening when your refrigerator is at least 10 years old, it’s definitely time to look for a new one. Of course, with all of the new features now being added to the latest models, you might just decide it’s time for an upgrade, even if your current refrigerator is currently running just fine.
Find Out About Rebates
To save you some additional cash, the utility company that supplies your home’s electricity may currently be offering a mail-in rebate when you purchase a qualifying energy-efficient refrigerator, so be sure to find out if you’re entitled to some cash back.
rating of 2022 for the quality and reliability of their models
When choosing a refrigerator, many buyers think about the reputation of their developers, because experts often give advice to look not only at the characteristics of the device, but also at which brand is better. Manufacturers of refrigerators for the home carefully monitor their image and care about the quality of the goods sold. Numerous developments collected over the years allow them to produce reliable and modern equipment at an affordable price. Our rating of refrigerator manufacturers in 2022 will help you navigate the features of a particular brand.
Content
- 1 13. Nord (Nord)
- 2 12. Biryusa
- 3 11. Shivaki
- 4 10. HotPoint-Ariston
- 5 9. STINOL
- 6 8. Atlant
- 7 7 7. Indesit
- 8 6. Beko
- 9 5. Samsung
- 10 4. LG
- 11 3. Bosch
- 12 2. Vestfrost
- 13 1.Liebherr
13. Nord (Nord)
Known since 1963, a large Ukrainian manufacturer of household appliances closes the TOP of the best companies. Until 2014, refrigerators produced under this brand were assembled in Donetsk, then the line was frozen. Since 2016, products have been assembled in China. The Nord company produces budget equipment and focuses on the economy class of buyers. If we take the latest of the released models, then in them the cost reduction is achieved due to savings on materials and modern technologies. However, the company is developing more modern and attractive in terms of design refrigerators with a tempered glass surface.
12. Biryusa
Refrigerators of this Krasnoyarsk brand are preferred by the older generation, mindful of the reliability and reliability of their predecessors. The company’s products are well adapted to the modern Russian consumer. In the model range, you can find both compact refrigerators with an internal chamber, which are suitable for a garden plot or a summer residence, and high, two-meter units with large freezer compartments. It is advisable to choose a refrigerator of this brand to freeze crops for the winter. At the end of 2022, more than 85% of the component devices are manufactured locally using foreign components.
11. Shivaki
The model range of refrigerators of this company is very diverse. Among them there are 4 models of the most popular design – two-door devices with a lower location of the freezer compartment with automatic defrost, and more than 30 with the No Frost system. There are many options suitable for commercial purposes – small single-chamber refrigerators with a miniature freezer.
10. Hotpoint-Ariston
This is one of the many brands owned by the Indesit Company. If the equipment manufactured under the Indesit brand is positioned as an economy, then Hotpoint-Ariston refrigerators are focused on the middle class. When creating them, manufacturers paid more attention to the design and configuration of models. Hotpoint-Ariston refrigerators are available in gray, white, black and even “stainless steel”.
9. Stinol
This brand was widely known several decades ago, and then disappeared into oblivion. The technical base of the plant in Lipetsk became the basis for the production of Indesit refrigerators. However, some time later, the production of models under the Stinol brand was restored under the slogan “return of the legend.” Refrigerators of this brand have occupied an economy class niche that Indesit and Hotpoint-Ariston stepped over. The model list is small, but among them there are options with electronic control, mechanical, auto-defrost, No Frost system.
Top best Nou Frost refrigerator models according to buyers!
8. Atlant
The Belarusian manufacturer of refrigeration equipment is well known on the Russian market as well. In the 90s. For years, he supplied equipment under the name “Minsk”, after the rebranding of the model, the name was changed to “Atlant”. The company produces simple and reliable refrigerators that do not have a wide range of colors. Tracking the trend of modernity, the company constantly updates its lineup, yielding to foreign competitors in terms of the speed of introducing innovations. So, a few years ago, the grates in the freezer were replaced with durable plastic, models with electronic control and the No Frost system appeared. Only in 2022 did the two-door Side-by-Side variant appear. Unlike most competitors, the company puts compressors of its own production on its equipment. Among the Atlant refrigerators on the market, you can find impressive units with a freezer compartment for 4 drawers – for those who store frozen berries and vegetables, as well as small models with a freezer for 2 drawers.
7. Indesit
The advertising slogan of this company “Indesit will last a long time” is familiar to most Russians. The Italian company, which assembles its refrigerators in Lipetsk, is one of the leaders in the Russian market. Its products are distinguished by an affordable price, simple design and modern technical stuffing. In fact, the refrigerators of this company meet all the basic requirements of buyers and are not so expensive compared to competitors. You can find models in white, gray, and even with a “wood-like” surface.
6. BEKO
This Turkish company has firmly established itself in the middle price segment. There are isolated premium models, such as the two-door Side-by-Side, but they represent only a small fraction of the output. The lion’s share of equipment is inexpensive refrigerators with a minimum set of necessary functions, simple in design, neat and economical. Products manufactured in Russia are assembled in the Vladimir region.
5. Samsung
The products of this company belong to the middle and premium class. One of the main goals of this manufacturer is to provide the buyer with maximum comfort. Therefore, refrigerators do not require defrosting, they are ergonomic (lids open easily, shelves slide out), silent and functional. Much attention is paid to maintaining the optimal microclimate in the cells, the interior space is divided into zones with different temperatures and humidity. Unlike European manufacturers, South Korean ones install heat exchange grilles not in the rear part of their models, but on its sides and close them from dust. Such refrigerators are heated from the sides, but they can be placed close to the wall.
4. LG
This brand from South Korea pays great attention not only to the ergonomics and functionality of its equipment, but also to its design. The buyer can purchase a refrigerator in beige, black and even red with a pattern that fits perfectly into the interior of the house. Modern models of this brand are equipped with silent inverter motors, No Frost system. They are economical and modern. In many models there is a display that allows you to set the desired temperature in the chamber or select the optimal mode of operation.
3. Bosch
Refrigerators of this brand are recommended for those who value reliability, and do not pursue newfangled trends. Models produced under this brand and presented on the domestic market are assembled mainly in Russia and China. Such a move made it possible to reduce the final cost of products and made them available to a wide range of consumers.
2. Vestfrost
This Danish company ranks second in the refrigerator reliability rating by manufacturer. It is more focused on the European consumer than on the domestic one. The company produces premium products. Models produced in Turkey are entering the Russian market, including many non-standard options with a width of more than 60 cm and two-door Side-by-Side.
1. Liebherr
This refrigerator brand can be called the most reliable. It is no accident that this manufacturer always occupies a leading position in the ranking of the best refrigerators in terms of quality, price and features.
The impeccable German quality of technology is combined with a thoughtful layout. There are plenty to choose from, in the model range – yellow, red, black refrigerators of different sizes and designs. Reliable, functional models that do not require defrosting can become a decoration of the kitchen.
It is impossible to say unequivocally which brand of refrigerator is the most reliable. Most manufacturers monitor the quality of their products and are not distinguished by a high percentage of defects. According to experts, German models are considered the highest quality, however, they are quite expensive for the middle class.
TOP 13 refrigerator manufacturers included
- 1. Nord (NORD)
- 2. Biryusa
- 3. Shivaki
- 4. Hotpoint-Ariston
- 5. Stinol
- 6. Atlant
- 7. Indesit
- 8. Beko
- 9. Samsung
- 10. LG
- 11. Bosch
- 12. Vestfrost
- 13. Liebherr
Calm for our Canal in Canal. Zen so you don’t miss anything!
Friends will also be interested in this
Loading …
Rating of refrigerator manufacturers: top-best
The choice of a refrigerator is approached with special responsibility. Nobody says that they take it “for centuries”, but buying a new unit every year is not a thoughtful act. Often, before buying, a kind of 9 helps to orient0157 top manufacturers of refrigerators . The point is not to run and shell out the amount for a technique that is at the very top of the list. The usefulness of such materials is different, by evaluating refrigerator brands rating , you can understand what are the pros and cons of each listed manufacturer.
When you find yourself in a store or mall, you have the advantage of understanding what you need. It is not difficult to guess that retail chains tend to sell what is profitable, and not exactly what you are looking for. It is difficult to answer which brand of refrigerator is better? After all, each person has a personal selection criteria. This list of top refrigerators can be called conditional: we tried to display both the strengths of manufacturing companies and their shortcomings. Not only the results of technical checks were taken into account, but also the reviews of those who have been operating refrigerators for more than one year.
Good to read: What you need to know about refrigerators: tips before you buy
Liebherr
This German manufacturer is rightfully at the top of the rankings. In addition to refrigeration units, the company is also famous for its excellent construction equipment and quality aircraft parts. But we, of course, will focus on refrigerators. The technology of the leader, as expected, is not cheap, but quality and reliability are always highly valued. One of the features of the brand, which is highly praised by customers, is its almost silent operation.
Liebherr refrigerators are often described as being simple. You can often hear that everything ingenious is simple. And in this case, everything is exactly like this: nothing superfluous and everything is in its place. In addition to the renowned quality and reliability, the buyer receives a stylish and comfortable unit to use.
Liebherr is included in the most prestigious ratings for the best refrigerators for a reason. The company made sure that the model range was not inferior to the technical characteristics. There is already plenty to choose from – it is very extensive. You can choose a model that fits in without problems or prefer a standard refrigerator. There are also showcases, chests and now popular Side by Side cabinets, like the Liebherr SBS 7242 model.
In addition to Germany, Liebherr units are also manufactured in Austria and Bulgaria. So the brand is trying to cover an additional sales market and offers budget options for equipment.
Pros:
- Reliability
- Variety of product range
- Long service life (average 15-20 years)
Cons:
- Low-quality inexpensive models (Bulgarian assembly)
- Rare marriage
Gorenje
A well-known European manufacturer from Slovenia initially, namely since 1950, specialized in agricultural machinery. But a few years later, Gorenje began to produce the first refrigerators with compressors. By the way, the Slovenian brand successfully entered the American market. And today the company produces more than 100 different models of refrigerators.
Gorenje was included in the list of best brands of refrigerators thanks to the successful use of modern technologies. All refrigerators of the concern are equipped with a special system that controls the temperature in normal mode. If you, for example, did not close the door, then it will adjust the temperature inside to the required level. Then the alarm will go off and notify you of the forgotten door. In some models, not one, but two cold accumulators are installed in freezers.
Gorenje models are presented not only in different shapes and colors. The Slovenian company was not bypassed by the “refrigeration fashion” for hanging the door. Now you yourself can decide in which direction it is more convenient for you to open the refrigerator. Another bonus is that Gorenje uses an antibacterial silver coating. The walls of the refrigerator are coated with silver ions so that the food is not affected by microbes. It also allows you to increase the shelf life.
Pros:
- Value for money
- Functionality
- Innovative approach
Cons:
- Noisy units come across
- Uncomfortable use of some models
Samsung
In the rating of refrigerator manufacturers in terms of quality and reliability, is indispensable without the South Korean brand Samsung. These refrigerators earned the third place in the list of the best thanks to the trust of people. Many are satisfied with the customer service, good assembly and high-tech design of equipment. A significant argument in favor of Samsung – the manufacturer offers a decent choice. Here, not only options are not only premium, you can easily find economy.
Some interesting facts about the brand: from Korean Samsung is translated as “three stars”. This name is associated with the fact that the founder of the company had three sons. Later, the business became a family business and very quickly captured not only the domestic, but also the world market. Significant support for the development of the company was provided by the country’s leadership, which supported domestic manufacturers.
Samsung has a long history dating back to the 40s of the last century, and to this day the company does not lose face. For example, in many models, stabilizers are immediately built in to save you from sudden power surges. Therefore, you do not have to buy a separate protective system. The use of a certain technology ensures almost silent operation of the refrigeration unit. An exception may be cheap models of low-quality assembly.
Pros:
- Inverter compressors
- Temperature level does not jump
- Convenient defrost
Cons:
- Side wall heating
- Installation difficulties
See also: How to make a fruit dryer from the refrigerator: a visual aid
Snaige
Lithuanian “snowflake” is next on our list of the best brands of refrigerators. The Snaige company can be considered the pride of Lithuania, because it is the only one of the Baltic countries that produces refrigeration units. It is customary that quality and reliability are the prerogative of Japanese, German or Korean giants. But even in Lithuania they can make excellent refrigerators.
Yes, Snaige easily qualifies as a young global brand. But he has already found his buyers. Officially, the company has been operating since the late 90s, but the forces of the same production have been producing refrigerators since 1963. Therefore, these guys do not have experience. In 2000, the company made the decision to “strengthen”. Now they began to produce not only household refrigerators, mini-bars, display cases and special refrigeration units for the proper storage of wine appeared.
Snaige are very demanding with their refrigerators, from functionality to sustainability. In addition, they have several lines. By name, you can immediately identify the important characteristics of a particular model: functional luxury, modern efficiency, stylish comfort, comfortable simplicity, etc.
Although Snaige is a modern brand, not all customers are satisfied with the design of refrigerators. They lack charm and elegance, customers claim. But a simple (or even simple) design also found its fans.
Pros:
- Non-biting price
- Moderate energy consumption
Cons:
- Noise
- Not top notch design
LG
This company is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of electronics (including excellent refrigerators). But here’s the story of the emergence of the brand is very funny, because initially it was not particularly connected with technology. In the 40s of the twentieth century, an enterprising man started a small business – he produced tooth powder in a Korean town. A few years later, a company appears and specializes in addition to toothpaste and other products. There were already detergents and face creams.
But ten years later the company retrained and began to engage in electronics. She literally “swept” the country’s market with high-quality and affordable products, leaving competitors behind. By 1995, the company is already called LG and is conquering a market that is much larger than the expanses of its native South Korea.
Now LG refrigerators can hardly be called cheap and affordable, but their demand is not falling. In addition to reliable performance and a large set of functions, this brand is famous for bold design decisions. Refrigerators of the LG brand are purchased by people who want to get not only high-quality appliances, but also stylish ones.
They have not only powerful functionality, but also economical power consumption.
Pros:
- Linear compressor runs quietly
- Unique and stylish design
- Low power consumption
Cons:
- Thin plastic interior
- Freezing too cold
LIBERTY
In rating of manufacturers is another fairly young European brand. Home appliance manufacturer LIBERTY was founded in London in 1996. And although the brand has not yet managed to gain the weight that firms with a long history have, there are no problems with sales. Naturally, we will focus on refrigerators, but to complete the picture, we will clarify that LIBERTY also produces many other equally high-quality appliances, especially for the kitchen.
A distinctive feature of the brand is its rapid adaptation to the needs of any market. The company quickly studies, analyzes and predicts the situation in a particular country or region. Somewhere there is a demand for standard models without pretentiousness, somewhere, on the contrary, the buyer is sophisticated and wants multifunctionality combined with an amazing design.
It should be noted, however, that LIBERTY is not as good as they praise themselves, but most models of refrigerators correspond to the idea of quality units.
The equipment is not from the category of very expensive, it demonstrates a pleasant duo of quality and price. Perhaps this is due to the fact that the brand has not yet earned a certain reputation. The average life of refrigerators exceeds 10 years and many buyers are satisfied with the purchase.
Pros:
- Reasonable cost
- Resistant materials
Cons:
- Not too wide selection of models
- Quite noisy appliances
Bosch
One of the most popular foreign companies, which has become famous for its excellent household appliances, Bosch always attracts customers with its vaunted German quality. The history of the brand begins in the 19th century, to be more precise, in 1861. A small “Workshop of precision mechanics and electronics” was opened by Robert Bosch. The first refrigerator of this company appeared only in the 30s of the XX century. It weighed more than 80 kg and was presented in the form of a cylinder. By the way, some manufacturers claim that this form reduces energy losses.
As for modern Bosch refrigerators, they have proved themselves on the positive side. The brand is characterized by powerful freezers. Whatever the temperature outside, everything remains stable in the cells. The technique is referred to as high-quality, in addition, the manufacturer began to produce energy-saving models.
The “appearance” of Bosch refrigerators is not so diverse, but there are plenty to choose from. Here you have units of the usual sizes: width 60 cm and height 185 cm and 200 cm. There are also refrigerators and wider – 70 cm. You can purchase not only large refrigeration units, Bosch also makes small portable refrigerators. The collection takes place not only in Germany, but also in Spain, Korea, China. You can choose an inexpensive option, but with quality – how lucky.
Pros:
- Energy efficient
- Operational reliability
Cons:
- Noise complaints
- Economy models are assembled poorly
We wrote about it: How to make a homemade refrigerator at home
Electrolux
The Swedes are not far behind! Rating of manufacturers of refrigerators in terms of quality and reliability without Electrolux would be incomplete. The whole world is familiar with this brand and customers unanimously talk about the silent operation and low power consumption of their equipment. But it is worth noting that Swedish refrigerators are not cheap.
Other European countries such as Austria, Slovenia, Poland are also related to Electrolux. After all, they also assemble refrigerators. It is not surprising that sometimes low-quality refrigerators under the Electrolux brand also enter the market. Some are just trying to cash in on a good reputation.
The company always follows trends – a symbiosis of a refrigeration unit and a computer was recently introduced. A special screen was installed on the front panel of the refrigerator, on which you can monitor the temperature and storage time of individual products.
The manufacturer focuses on build quality and the use of new technologies, but no one forgets about decor. Electrolux improves models every year. For example, for some countries, the height of refrigerators has been increased. In addition to standard colors, the Swedish company also introduced a line of colored NOW units back in the early 2000s.
Pros:
- Excellent quality
- Does not wind up a lot of electricity
- Noise level – minimum
Cons:
- Expensive
- Number of fakes
- Strong plastic smell
ZANUSSI
The company that definitely deserves a place in the list of the best refrigerator brands is ZANUSSI. Around 19In 16, young businessman Antonio Zanussi launched one of the most respected brands in the northeast of Italy. It all started not with a refrigerator, but with a stove, but then the business began to expand. Already by the 1950s, more than 300 employees worked in the production, which was already led by the son of the founder.
A modern company operating under the slogan “Modern design and innovation”. And indeed: the range of ZANUSSI models will delight any, even the most sophisticated, buyer. Here you have a standard classic design that will look great in any kitchen. And then there are amazing colors, bold design solutions for handles, non-standard division. Choose a model of almost any size, including a mini-bar.
The brand’s management realized in time that at the present time one cannot go far with one design and technologies. And ZANUSSI launched a powerful PR company, attracted famous people, did everything for successful advertising. How advantageously beat the advantages, keeping silent about the shortcomings.
Pros:
- Original appearance
- Use of modern technology
Cons:
- Customer complaints about temperature stability
- Use of poor quality plastic
- Bottles fall off the door shelves
HITACHI
The Japanese industrial giant HITACHI symbolically closes our hit parade of recognized refrigerator manufacturers. But this in no way speaks of the company as a losing position. The beginning of the corporation, as in many stories before, was laid by a trifle. An unknown, not rich, but talented and ambitious young engineer decided that humanity needed help. And what can help a person in daily work – of course, technology! So a century ago, HITACHI was founded, which means “rising sun” in Japanese.
The secret of HITACHI’s popularity lies in the fact that the company’s management carefully monitors the quality of its products. The end result is always subject to several checks. In addition, the corporation understands that standing still means degrading quality. Therefore, a significant part of the income is spent on the development of new technologies.
Almost all HITACHI models are incredibly spacious: the space optimization inside the refrigerator is simply amazing. The manufacturer seems to have provided for everything, even such trifles as ice trays. In addition, thanks to the internal regulator, you can independently set the required temperature.
In terms of design, the Japanese brand has remained true to the classic style and minimalism. The design can be called thoughtful, but not surprising and original.
Pros:
- Sophisticated models
- Build quality and materials
- Usability
Cons:
- A small variety of design models
- Sometimes water drips
Totals
Answer question what is the best manufacturer of refrigerators we could not! Each of the listed brands produces excellent refrigeration equipment, otherwise they simply would not be in the ranking. But the point is not who was at the top of the list, but who closes the top selection. We have found out the features of popular brands of refrigerators and pointed out some shortcomings.
The best refrigerator manufacturer is the one that meets your needs as a customer. Perhaps you are looking for a reliable and simple refrigerator, or you are looking for a multifunctional design miracle. As in most cases, it all depends on the set of qualities that the client needs.
We hope that our article has helped you, but for a clear example, we recommend watching this video review:
The best refrigerator manufacturers – Rating in 2022 , can easily get confused among numerous brands. Of course, when choosing, you can focus on the name of the manufacturer and its popularity in the market. However, famous brands are not always able to offer the buyer exactly what he needs.
To understand all the intricacies of this issue and choose exactly the household appliances that you need, just read our review of the best home refrigerator manufacturers in 2022. As examples, we will highlight several popular models from such well-known brands as Liebherr, Vestfrost, Electrolux, Atlant, Indesit and others. Unlike its compatriot Bosch, this manufacturer singles out refrigeration appliances for domestic and professional use as one of its key areas. In the European market, refrigerators from Liebherr occupy a very advantageous position, bypassing most of their competitors in terms of popularity.
The famous German brand has achieved this thanks to the excellent quality of technology and its excellent design. Moreover, the well-known brand of Liebherr refrigerators can offer very interesting options in different categories. Among the classic two-chamber models, CUag 3311 looks especially attractive with a pleasant olive color and A ++ energy class. If you need a compact built-in refrigerator for your home, cottage or cafe, then pay attention to UIK 1620 . Liebherr also has interesting Side by Side solutions and small freezers like Gsl 1223 . Traditionally, for companies from Germany, the brand in question does not have any problems with durability. However, sometimes buyers note as minuses:
- unreliable handles
- high noise level
Vestfrost (Denmark)
Next in line is the popular Danish brand Vestfrost. In terms of quality and reliability, this company of refrigerators bypasses many other well-known manufacturers. Among the shortcomings of the company in question, only not the longest warranty period can be distinguished. Of course, given the high quality of all Vestfrost refrigerators, this nuance cannot be called critical, but still, the company itself used to issue a longer warranty on its products. However, the Danish brand has managed to attract attention with its excellent design, which rarely includes white colors.
Popular refrigerators of this company, like VF 466 EB or VF 3863 , can be called real masterpieces from a visual point of view. But even when the manufacturer uses a white color, which is present in the modification VF 466 EW or the compact freezer VFTT 1451 W , the design of the equipment still remains just as attractive and recognizable. Among other positive qualities of the popular manufacturer of Vestfrost refrigerators, one can note the use of the most modern technologies and high-quality materials in all models.
Electrolux (Sweden)
Of course, our TOP would not be complete without mentioning the famous Swedish Electrolux refrigerators. In general, this world-famous brand has been considered one of the best home appliances on the market for many years. At a very reasonable cost, the manufacturer can offer high-quality devices with an attractive design and excellent functionality. Moreover, even budget models of refrigerators from Electrolux can please customers with an A + energy class, which competing companies are not always ready to offer. It is difficult to single out certain models of the Swedish manufacturer, because each individual option is simply magnificent. However, when choosing compact refrigerators and freezers with the possibility of integration, you should pay attention to ERN 91400 AW and EUN 1100 FOW respectively.
Read also:
-
Rating of the best built-in refrigerators for 2022
-
Rating of the best online stores of refrigerators in 2022
-
Liebher-9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 : reliable and functional in 2022
Indesit (Italy)
Despite the variety of competitors, Indesit refrigerators feel very confident in the market. All models of the Italian manufacturer are able to please with excellent quality at a reasonable cost. The appearance of Indesit products is also at an excellent level. What are the models MT 08 T and BIA 16 T , stylized as a tree. The first model is a good compact refrigerator, which is suitable not only for home or summer cottages, but also for hotels.
The companies also offer top loading solutions like Indesit OS B 100 . This high-quality refrigerator is suitable not only for small shops or restaurants, but also for small studio apartments where you need to save space even when opening the door. Although the Italian brand often produces the best refrigerators on the market in terms of price and quality, Indesit products, unfortunately, cannot do without drawbacks. In some models, especially when it comes to the low-end segment, you can find some disadvantages:
- high noise level
- high energy consumption
- uncomfortable shelves in the freezer/refrigerator
Samsung (Korea)
could not be added to the rating The South Korean giant is considered one of the leaders in the home appliances market. And we are talking not only about high-quality models of refrigerators, but also about other devices. As for the topic of our rating, everything here is just perfect! Whatever refrigeration equipment from Samsung you choose, it will definitely please you with impeccable design and reasonable cost. For example, among two-chamber solutions, 9 can be distinguished0157 RB-30 J3200SS and RT-25 J3200WW . The latter is a model with a freezer located at the top, which is not so common today.
However, without a doubt, Samsung’s best-selling refrigerators are Side by Side solutions. One of the most popular models in this design is RS-57 K4000 , which is available in white (WW modification) and gray (SA) colors. It is worth noting the fact that the company produces premium models equipped with inverter compressors that provide silent operation and economy.
Atlant (Belarus)
Among the CIS representatives in our rating there are Atlant refrigerators. The Belarusian manufacturer appeared on the market back in 1959, and today it competes on equal terms with the world’s leading brands. The main advantage of the ATLANT brand is the low price. For example, one of the cheapest refrigerators with the No Frost system on the market are Belarusian-made models. 9 models would be an excellent choice in this category0157 XM 4426-009 ND and XM 44-25-080 N , which, in addition to windy defrosting technology, also boast useful additional functionality and attractive appearance. But do not think that the low cost of “Belarusian” necessarily means poor quality. Atlant products regularly receive awards and prestigious certificates for their achievements. According to user reviews, this brand of refrigerators offers much more than its price, so you don’t want to find fault with some of the disadvantages of the brand’s equipment from Belarus.
LG (South Korea)
The company from South Korea closes the rating of refrigerator manufacturers. The LG brand today is one of the three largest manufacturers of home appliances. Moreover, the South Korean giant regularly tops not only this rating, but also the TOP companies producing the highest quality devices. Most often, it is LG refrigerators that set new trends and offer innovative technologies to customers. So the company is constantly striving to reduce energy consumption as much as possible, thanks to which models such as GA-B489 . At the same time, the LZh company takes care of different categories of customers, so you can choose a refrigerator that suits you in terms of price and quality in several options. In particular, for this model there are more than a dozen modifications that differ not only in a wide palette of shades, but also in some useful functions.
0010
Rating of the best refrigerators online stores in 2022
Rating of the best Liebherr refrigerators in 2022
Rating of the best refrigerators: reliable and functional in 2022
which refrigerator is better to choose5?
In this article, we reviewed 7 popular and best manufacturers of refrigerators that are the undisputed market leaders. Each of the companies on the list offers customers products with excellent quality, attractive design and extensive functionality. It is for this reason that the order in which the companies are placed is very conditional. When deciding which refrigerator to buy for your home, office, or restaurant, consider the manufacturer’s unique features, such as branded features, distinctive design features, and brand pricing.
Vote for this rating!
[Votes: 20 Average rating: 4.4]
best brands in terms of quality and reliability
Many household appliances are purchased, as they say, “for years”, so there is always an interest in reviews of the most popular brands. Specialists, when rating refrigerators in terms of quality and reliability, necessarily take into account not only the technical parameters of the products, they analyze the reviews of real users, collect their opinions and compile objective reports that can answer all the questions posed. In them, the best refrigerators are quite realistically described, so you can easily take the information provided as a basis. According to independent experts, the list of the most popular brands is headed by the Danish company Vestfrost, the products of the German manufacturer Liebherr are in the second place, and the products of the Japanese concern Sharp are in the third place. Why exactly these brands were able to become a sales leader? What other manufacturers were able to get into the top ten brands? You can find answers to these questions in the presented article.
The Danish refrigerator brand Vestfrost is considered the most popular
Why is it important to consider the manufacturer’s brand?
When studying the best brands of refrigerators, it is important to pay attention to the country of origin. Leading brands are different from the average brands. And that’s why.
- As a rule, large manufactories have a rich pedigree history, which allowed them to acquire an impeccable reputation in the market.
They cherish it, they honor it, they try to avoid moments that can harm it, therefore, products of impeccable quality, which have passed serious own control for compliance, go on sale. Even if the production of equipment is carried out in any Asian country, serious supervision is exercised over all stages, allowing everything to be kept under control.
- Leading brands constantly analyze demand, they invest a lot of money in the development of new technologies, in their introduction into production. Therefore, every year a new generation of equipment comes on sale, devoid of the shortcomings of previous models. Buying such equipment, you can be sure that it will be relevant in the coming decades.
Please note! When going to the store, it is necessary for each potential buyer to try to independently figure out what he needs. In any specialized store there is a rich assortment, it is not necessary to rely on the opinion of a sales assistant. He will always sell what is most beneficial to him.
Therefore, the proposed rating of the best refrigerators will be most useful. It is compiled taking into account the opinions of specialists, sales managers, service repairmen.
Top three
So, in the announcement of the article, the top three manufacturers were announced. Why did they manage to break through so high? Their products were able to demonstrate the perfect combination of price and quality of the products described. It was these companies that became trendsetters and formulated the main trends for the future development of the industry.
Vestfrost
The Danish company Vestfrost took the first place. It specializes, unlike its competitors, exclusively in the production of refrigerators. This approach allowed us to concentrate all our efforts on the creation of universal products. The company for the first time in the world moved away from the traditional design of household appliances and offered color models of refrigerators. Designers from around the world took part in the development of the new design, today the design of the Danish company’s refrigerators is available in 12 different color variations. Each potential buyer is able to choose a suitable product for himself and give his kitchen an individual flavor.
Creative design, high quality workmanship, three-year warranty – these qualities have made it possible to strengthen the popularity of the Danish manufacturer. The Danish company “Vestfrost” is the first manufacturer to receive the right to use the quality mark of the European Union in the labeling of its products. Only those products that could prove compliance with stringent environmental safety requirements are marked with this mark. Preference for such household appliances should be given if the kitchen equipment is carried out taking into account modern trends.
Liebherr
Looking through the pages of the refrigerator rating, you can see that the top three leaders are European brands. The second place is deservedly occupied by the products of the German trademark “Liebherr”. It was founded back in 1949 by a young ambitious engineer Hans Liebherr. The company still remains a family business, now it is headed by the heirs of the founder. They zealously honor the traditions of the enterprise and try to preserve the existing developments.
The achievements of the German concern are great. It was at this enterprise that FrostSafe technology was developed, an electronic control system was first introduced, and a digital temperature indicator was installed. For the first time in the world, Liebherr engineers developed and applied cold accumulators, the No Frost system, and the BioFresh special freshness zone. Today, Liebherr modern refrigerators are represented by the widest range. It has everything: showcases and chests, built-in models and free-standing cameras. Variety of assortment is not the only advantage of this choice. All products are capable of boasting excellent functionality, beautiful design, reliable performance. You can choose them if you want to buy an expensive refrigerator that meets the high requirements of European quality.
Sharp
Continuing to describe the rating of refrigerator manufacturers, it is necessary to talk about the products of the Japanese concern Sharp. It was founded in 1912. The self-taught mechanic Tokuji Hayakawa was full of ideas, for their implementation he rented a workshop and began to implement interesting projects in it. The first was the production of a mechanical pencil that did not require sharpening. The sharp object was called “Sharp”, which means “sharp” in translation. For the first 50 years, radios, televisions, and calculators were produced in the workshop. The first refrigerator was released from the assembly line at 1952 year. Even then, there was competition on the market, and in order to occupy your niche, you had to offer the buyer something special. “Sharp” offered the world the first two-chamber refrigerators. And they are in great demand.
Refrigerator of the Japanese company «Sharp»
Today, the assortment of the Japanese concern includes large refrigerators with a top freezer. They are able to boast of large capacity, versatility and the presence of freshness zones for storing vegetables. If a rating of two-chamber refrigerators were compiled, the products of the Japanese concern would take first place, but in the overall standings it closes the top three.
Other brands included in the top 10
Compiling the top 10 best refrigerators, experts gave the honorable fourth place to the Korean manufacturer, which owns the LG trademark. Today, few people remember that initially, from the day of its foundation, the small company Lak Hui was engaged in the production of tooth powder, detergents and face cream, and only in 1958, with the expansion of capacities, it switched to the production of household appliances.
Around the same time, Lak Hui responded to the request of the President of Korea and, thanks to budgetary influence, radically changed her strategy. The company was tasked with providing the entire domestic market with high-quality and inexpensive household appliances. It was supposed to be sold at a price lower than that of European and American competitors. To identify their products and somehow identify themselves, the company has developed its own logo. Today he is known throughout the world.
Please note! When compiling a review of lg refrigerators, experts pay attention to the fact that all products of the South Korean company are in the middle price segment, South Korean refrigerators boast high efficiency, original well-recognized design and quiet operation.
The South Korean brand LG produces high-quality refrigerators at an affordable price
There is one significant drawback of the described products. Inside they are lined with thin plastic, but for good refrigerators this circumstance does not play a big role. High technical characteristics fully compensate for this minus.
Bosch and Siemens
Fifth place was occupied by the two trademarks “Bosch” and “Siemens”. The merger of the two brands took place in 1967. By this time, the Bosch company was already able to gain great popularity among European consumers. But the merger allowed us to expand production and offer the world the widest range of high-quality refrigerators. The concern not only easily conquered new markets, it opened production in those countries where a brisk trade in products was organized.
Russia is no exception. The plant was built near St. Petersburg, it carries out the white assembly of original components and produces the most popular models with a standard width (60 cm) and height (up to 2 m). A wide range of models, reliable operation of devices, cost-effectiveness are the main advantages of the described choice. It is possible and necessary to give preference to this brand, if desired, to support production facilities organized in Russia.
Samsung
The name of the Korean brand “Samsung” is translated as “three stars”. Poetry has nothing to do with it, the founder of the company Byong Chul Lee had three sons. It was they who inherited the business, it was they who were able to make their father’s business grow and prosper. The development of the company was also associated with state support, which was organized by the president of the country. The government then relied on domestic production and created ideal conditions for growth and development for all large companies.
The company immediately produced a huge number of refrigerators, their low price allowed them to enter the international market and win their niche there. Products differ from competitive products in that inverter compressors are installed in each model, they can boast of reliable operation and attractive appearance. For a good refrigerator, this is more than enough.
Minsk Atlant
Specialists, talking about which refrigerators are the best and most reliable, always include them in the list of products of the Belarusian company Atlant. In Soviet times, refrigerators of this brand were called “Minsk-1”, “Minsk-2”, “Minsk-3”. Their production was organized in order to provide the domestic market with high-quality and inexpensive refrigerators, oriented to the peculiarities of the operation of domestic power systems.
To achieve the set goals, the Minsk Plant, which previously produced gas equipment, was completely reconstructed. Subsequently, factories located in Smolensk, Alytussk and Mazeikiaysk joined this enterprise. It was then that the trademark “Atlant” appeared. After the collapse of the Soviet Union, it began to belong to the Belarusian side. She was able to restore production and put it on a modern track.
Refrigerators of the Belarusian company Atlant are of high quality and affordable price
Please note! It is worth choosing Belarusian refrigerators when there is a need to purchase inexpensive and truly high-quality equipment at the most affordable price. A wide range of models is on sale, so the choice becomes quite complete.
The products of the Belarusian company would be out of competition in the ranking of budget refrigerators.
Products of the Turkish brand Veko
I would like to finish the story about the best refrigerator manufacturers with a description of the Turkish brand Veko. Initially, the founders of the company were engaged in the production of canned food, but the business went bankrupt, so it was decided to change their profile to the production of electric light bulbs. This was not enough for the founder of the company, engineer Vehbi Koch, and he decided to combine the production of light bulbs with the production of reliable refrigerators and washing machines. The low price and good quality of products made it possible to conquer not only the domestic Turkish market, but also to enter the markets of other neighboring countries with their products.
In Russia, the products of the Turkish brand became so popular that it was decided to open their own production line in the country. Numerous expert reviews indicate that budget models have a very affordable price, they boast low power consumption and a wide range of models. It has the narrowest most reliable refrigerator in the world. And even if it works with a certain noise, for small-sized kitchens such a solution becomes a real salvation.
Generalization on the topic
As you can see, it is quite difficult to say unequivocally which brand of refrigerator to choose. Some brands are more expensive, others are cheaper, but a good quality refrigerator always has certain parameters. You can not put the Atlant refrigerator and Bosch products on the same step. Famous brands are out of competition. And all because they devoted many decades to their work, while technological progress did not remain in place. They did not follow him, but shaped it themselves, introducing interesting new products into production. Therefore, if there is a desire to use the latest generation of equipment, it is better to give preference to the products of the leaders of the proposed rating. If there is a need to choose a refrigerator for the home at more affordable prices, the best refrigerator is Korean or Turkish.
12 Best Refrigerator Manufacturers – 2022 Ranking
Refrigerator is a must-have household appliance for every house and apartment. The equipment ensures the safety of products and must be highly reliable. Only the best manufacturers of refrigerators, who have earned their reputation for decades of presence in the market, can provide an increased resource, functionality, and stability of work. The VyborExperta.ru team decided to find out which companies produce the most reliable, easy-to-use equipment.
Contents
Rating of refrigerator manufacturers
Our experts selected well-known brands to rank refrigerator manufacturers. The features of work, configuration, ergonomics of the internal space were studied. User reviews, opinions of specialists from the field of trade and equipment repair were taken into account. The main attention was paid to the following characteristics:
- Defrost – models are available with manual, automatic operation;
- Energy class – affects the consumption of electricity;
- Reliability – the resource of the main electromechanical components was assessed;
- Assortment – preference was given to brands with models of different sizes;
- Technical support – the presence of service centers has a positive effect on the service life.
Limited assortment, lack of official representations, presence of technical marriage – manufacturers of such products were excluded from our rating.
The best manufacturers of refrigerators
Products of domestic brands, companies from Europe, North America and Asia are represented on the market of our country. Some of the best refrigerator manufacturers are reputable manufacturers who offer economical models with well-organized interior space. In production, these companies implement innovative technologies that simplify planned care, ensure the safety of products without losing their quality.
Indesit
The history of the Italian company goes back to 1930, but the brand received its modern name in 2005. The largest manufacturer of household appliances owns 14 factories in different countries of the world. Since 2014, the brand has been part of the American Whirpool holding, but continues to produce products using technologies that have won the trust of European buyers. One of the factories for the production of refrigerators is located in Russia: localization allows you to reduce the price.
The catalog contains more than 100 models for the home: freestanding and built-in appliances. The equipment is completed with heavy-duty glass, the shelves can withstand up to 100 kg without deformation. For storage of products in flexible packages, an adjustable container is installed, which helps to optimize the internal space. The technology of accelerated temperature recovery allows to preserve the freshness of products.
Pros:
- Bright LED lighting;
- Extended warranty up to 10 years;
- Wide network of dealers and service centers;
- Convenient choice of freezing temperature;
- Antibacterial interior wall coating.
Disadvantages:
- Few class A options for power consumption.
Total No Frost technology is implemented in the production of freezers, which prevents the formation of frost. The equipment does not require manual defrosting, which simplifies maintenance.
Bosch
The German refrigerator manufacturer Bosch produces single-door, combined, two-door models. In the catalog equipment with 1 or 2 compressors. Adjusting the humidity level keeps food fresher longer than competitive products. An antibacterial filter removes unpleasant odors, and bright LED lighting illuminates the interior evenly.
Folding shelves allow you to adapt the chamber architecture. Boxes for fruits and vegetables are made of durable transparent plastic. The compressors operate quietly, consuming a minimum amount of electricity. The Bosch series with PerfectFit technology is designed for installation close to a wall or kitchen furniture. Despite the absence of gaps, the equipment works stably, without interruptions.
Advantages:
- Simultaneous accelerated cooling of all products;
- Possibility of freezing up to -32 degrees;
- Stainless steel surfaces do not leave greasy fingers;
- Uniform air circulation;
- Impeccable quality of all materials.
Drawbacks:
- Overpriced.
Atlant
The Belarusian company manufactures equipment that meets European standards. Simple but reliable control units, compressors, designed for voltage fluctuations in the mains, provide an increased service life. The interior design pleases with a variety of shelves, elements for storing small products. LED lights are located on the ceiling and walls, providing uniform illumination.
Atlant refrigerators are equipped with class A+ compressors that operate with low noise and minimal energy consumption. The operation of the main unit of the refrigerator is controlled by a microcontroller. This board has a self-diagnostic function. Top-class models are equipped with touch displays, have the “Vacation” and “Supercooling” functions. Quick freezing helps preserve the beneficial properties of foods.
Advantages:
- Beverage cooling function;
- Freshness zone;
- Door closer;
- Good network of service centers.
Drawbacks:
- Outdated design.
LG
The products of the South Korean company often top the ratings of home appliances. Users leave positive feedback about the design of the brand’s products, the economical operation of compressors. Indeed, the manufacturer pays attention to design: the models are distinguished by smooth lines, beveled corners, and a wide range of colors. Equipped with linear inverter compressors that meet the A++ class standard.
This brand produces combined models with a freezer at the top and bottom, two-door Side-by-side. The equipment is presented in all price segments. Climate control technology allows you to customize individual operating modes in different departments.
Hygiene filter prevents the formation of unpleasant odours. The thermal barrier protects products when doors are frequently opened. Adjustable settings of universal drawers allow you to choose the optimal mode for storing delicacies.
Advantages:
- Stable temperature in the main chamber;
- Wear resistant glass for shelves;
- Stainless steel air ducts;
- Adjustable shelves;
- Good door fit.
Disadvantages:
- Regular maintenance of the textured outer surface is required.
Whirlpool
American brand with a leading position in the world market. It produces built-in, freestanding models with inverter and linear compressors. The main series have an A++ energy saving class. In the refrigeration compartment, sensors are installed that control the temperature and humidity of the air. This system achieves optimum recovery five times faster than competitive equipment.
A special compartment with a temperature of about zero degrees allows you to keep delicate products longer: fish, fresh meat. If necessary, this part of the chamber can be switched to normal operation. An optimal level of humidity is maintained inside, which makes defrosting technology simple. The ventilation system ensures the freshness of stored products. For control, most models are equipped with touch informative displays.
Advantages:
- Teflon coated feet do not scratch the floor;
- Low power consumption;
- Country and high-tech designs available;
- Tempered glass shelves;
- Handy bottle holders.
Disadvantages:
- It is difficult to properly set the compressor.
Haier
China is a new manufacturer of refrigerators in the Russian market, but Haier products have already been able to prove themselves from the best side in the budget segment. The brand has relied on the functional ergonomics of the interior space, assortment, low price. The company produces appliances in 10 different shades, offering products in a modern style. Spacious chambers, a variety of shelves, containers allow you to store more products. By production of accessories shock-resistant plastic is used.
Refrigerators have a freshness zone, compartments for storing delicate products. The antibacterial compartment provides a high level of health protection, and the ventilation system ensures uniform cooling. LED lighting saves electricity, creates a comfortable atmosphere when using.
Advantages:
- Collapsible bottle racks;
- 5 year extended warranty;
- Well maintains the set temperature during a power outage;
- Easy to clean surface.
Disadvantages:
- Low durability of fittings.
Samsung
The South Korean company offers standard and combined options, original solutions with a side-mounted freezer. Twin Cooling plus keeps food fresh for as long as possible by optimizing temperature and humidity levels. A stable mode is maintained in every corner of the working chamber with the help of an intensive ventilation system.
Fast cooling mode will help preserve the healthy qualities of the food. The back wall of the refrigerator is made of metal and is an additional source of cold, allowing you to save energy. In the drawer there is a freshness zone for storing delicacies.
The equipment is equipped with digital inverter compressors, the electronics automatically selects one of seven power modes for economical operation.
Advantages:
- Extended warranty up to 10 years;
- Low noise;
- Maintains temperature for 16-18 hours after a power outage;
- No frost;
- Elegant design.
Flaws:
- Weak plastic fittings in freezer chamber.
Beko
The Turkish company owns 22 factories and is one of the three largest manufacturers of household appliances in Europe. Produces a full range of refrigerators for the home. It produces models with dual-circuit cooling – this technology prevents the mixing of odors in the freezer and main chamber. Electronics maintains stable parameters, increasing the shelf life of products.
The EverFresh+ separate box has an original design and humidity control system. The freshness of stored vegetables and fruits is ensured by Blue Light technology: light in a special range is similar to the natural solar cycle and prolongs photosynthesis in plant products, helps to preserve vitamins. The inner walls are covered with an antibacterial composition, which prevents the growth of microorganisms.
Complete with compressors of all major classes in the field of energy saving. This allows you to buy equipment taking into account individual requirements, the family budget.
Advantages:
- Sturdy drawers, shelves;
- Autonomous cold storage technology;
- Efficient open door indication;
- Quick freeze function;
- Ionizer for air purification.
Disadvantages:
- Increased noise level.
Liebherr
The global holding company, headquartered in Germany, owns 140 enterprises in dozens of countries around the world. Produces business and premium products. Owns its own research centers. The products are awarded in the field of design, distinguished by thoughtful internal architecture. The freshness zone with BioFresh technology ensures the safety of tropical fruits and delicacies. The product placement system, smart cooling technology allows you to create different climatic conditions on adjacent shelves.
Shelves are adjustable in height, pull-out containers can be easily removed to make room for oversized pots and salad bowls. All internal surfaces are easily cleaned of dirt. All models come with No Frost, equipped with energy saving compressors. Microcontrollers monitor the level of humidity, activating the removal of its excess using a circulating ventilation system.
Advantages:
- More than 300 models in the catalog;
- Low power consumption;
- Easy installation of built-in models;
- High quality stainless steel finish;
- Intelligent control system.
Drawbacks:
- Overpriced.
Biryusa
If you want to choose a refrigerator from a manufacturer from Russia, buyers most often purchase equipment from the Krasnoyarsk plant. Serial production at this enterprise began in 1964. Equipment was supplied not only to all regions of the USSR, but also to England, Germany, the Scandinavian countries, and Austria. Such well-known world companies as Zanussi, Electrolux, Thomson placed their orders at the plant. Today, 50 models of all formats, chest freezers, medical equipment are produced.
The equipment is equipped with 1 or 2 class A and A+ compressors, drip defrosting system. Full No Frost technology eliminates the need for manual defrosting, while mechanical and electronic control units are highly reliable. Super-cooling and super-freezing systems provide long-term storage of products. By production of cases food stainless steel is used.
Advantages:
- Sturdy glass shelves;
- Factory warranty 3 years;
- Economical LED lighting;
- Stable operation of the freezer.
Disadvantages:
- Increased noise level.
Vestfrost
The Danish company produces products with a high level of reliability. The trademark appeared in 1963, the company produced refrigerators for fishing vessels. Today, this brand belongs to the premium class, in the portfolio – one-door, two-door models, refrigerators with pull-out freezers. A feature of the product is a cooling-based system that circulates air without touching the walls. This reduces heat transfer and saves energy.
Management is carried out using an informative display. User can choose super freeze mode, leave text reminder. Models with built-in media players and voice messaging are available. LED lighting from different sides improves visibility, and there are two freshness zones for storing delicate products.
Advantages:
- Extended compressor life;
- Wide range of colors;
- Models with evacuator to create an airless environment;
- Extended shelf life of products.
Disadvantages:
- Poorly developed network of service centers.
Hitachi
The Japanese company offers equipment equipped with silent inverter compressors. The equipment is characterized by low noise level, increased resource, uncompromising design. The presence of built-in stabilizers protects against voltage drops. Controlled air circulation in the interior allows you to cool the products faster and keep them fresh.
Antibacterial filters prevent the formation of bacterial habitats and unpleasant odours. Independent fans are installed in the main and freezer compartments. Economical LED lamps have a long service life and do not require constant replacement. Shelves are made of tempered glass, the owner has the opportunity to buy these components of any shade.
Advantages:
- Dynamic cooling system;
- Block of ionization and air purification;
- Informative display;
- Convenient selection of settings for mode optimization.
Disadvantages:
- Demanding on the base on which it is installed.
How to choose a refrigerator
When looking for an answer to the question of which manufacturer of refrigerators is better, it is recommended to choose a brand with a good reputation. It is necessary to pay attention to the features of defrosting, the energy class, the reliability of compressor installations. The useful volume, the availability of free space in the kitchen is taken into account. Following these recommendations, you can choose an inexpensive good refrigerator that will last 15-20 years.
Defrosting
Frost accumulation is an inevitable process during product cooling. To remove the layer of ice, use manual defrosting, a drip system or No Frost technology. With manual defrosting, the user cleans the chambers of ice weekly, after removing all products. The process takes a lot of time, but the lack of systems that simplify it reduces the price of equipment.
The drip system drains the condensate into a special container where it evaporates. The design is simple, almost does not affect the price, but the user must monitor the cleanliness of the water drainage channel. The No Frost technology is based on the even distribution of cold in the chamber with the help of fans. During operation, moisture condenses only near the cooling element – outside the working compartments.
Energy class
Cooling works 24 hours a day, the less electricity the equipment consumes, the lower the utility costs. Manufacturers are introducing various technologies that reduce energy costs. To determine the level of savings, an indicator was developed, which was called the energy consumption class. This is a coefficient showing how much electricity a technique consumes from the average statistical data for its group of electrical appliances.
Class B equipment consumes 55-75%, class A – 44-55%. The latest generation equipment is more perfect. Class A + consumes 33-44% of electricity, class A ++ from 22 to 33%. The most economical A+++ models consume less than 22%.
Volume
What volume should the refrigerator compartments have? The size determines how many products can be placed on shelves and in drawers. Useful volume is one of the main characteristics, which must be indicated in the technical documentation. The parameter is calculated according to a simple formula – 120 liters per 1 person plus 60 liters for each family member. Four people will need a refrigerator with a volume of 120 + 3 * 60 = 300 liters. When using a large number of semi-finished products, this figure is recommended to be increased by 20-25%. Small models up to 100 liters are a good choice for a temporary residence.
Reliability
Equipment failure on a summer day can lead to food spoilage. To avoid this, it is recommended to choose equipment from reliable brands. To do this, you need to study reviews of refrigerator manufacturers, evaluate the period of presence of the brand on the market. If the company started production only 5-7 years ago, then it is not possible to assess how the equipment behaves in 10-12 years.
Refrigerator of which manufacturer is better
Having sorted out the question of which refrigerator companies are worthy of the attention of owners of houses and city apartments, we have not found a universal answer about the best brand. No company has the perfect balance between quality, functionality, price and service levels. Despite this, the VyborExperta.ru team recommends the following brands, taking into account the scope of application:
- Indesit – for an ordinary city apartment;
- Bosch – for a country house;
- LG is a good combination model;
- Whirlpool – for those who are looking – Side-by-side;
- Beko – budget solution;
- Biryusa – for areas with unstable energy supply;
- Hitachi – when noise is important.
All the brands in our review offer a wide range of products, but only the most reliable ones are awarded the title of the best manufacturers of household appliances.
Rating of the best manufacturers of refrigerators
The rating of the best refrigerator manufacturers will help the buyer choose a decent modern appliance, determine its functionality, build quality, and the possibility of service. When choosing a refrigerator, it is recommended to give preference to large companies that care about their reputation: as a rule, they offer a wide range of products, as well as an official guarantee.
Bosch
One of the most famous German companies that has been producing refrigerators since 1933 years. It offers built-in and freestanding models in standard and extended widths with one or two compartments, as well as large Side-by-Side refrigerators. These are reliable devices equipped with all the necessary options, including drip defrosting or No Frost system, freshness zone, super freezing modes.
Models such as Bosch KGV39XW22R or Bosch KGV39XL22R with a volume of 351 liters are distinguished by a high energy class A +. Model Side-by-Side Bosch KAI9The 3VL30R is equipped with an ice maker and humidity control system.
Mitsubishi Electric
A Japanese corporation that produces both small European-style models with a bottom freezer and Asian models with a top freezer. A special place is occupied by high-tech multi-chamber devices of premium class. All devices are distinguished by precise assembly, high reliability, a variety of colors, and the “Full No Frost” defrost system.
The freezer in models such as Mitsubishi Electric MR-LXR68EM-GBK-R or Mitsubishi Electric MR-LXR68EM-GSL-R is made in the form of two drawers. A number of models, such as the Mitsubishi Electric MR-WXR743C-W-R, are equipped with a Vitamin Factory compartment for long-term storage of herbs and vegetables.
Miele
A brand that has gained prestige all over the world thanks to the unsurpassed quality and durability of products. The company manufactures large volume appliances equipped with a full range of options for proper food storage. Most models have three chambers – refrigerator, freezer and freshness zone.
Built-in models – for example, Miele KFN 37282 iD or Miele KFN 29162D WS – are distinguished by the energy class A ++. Freestanding appliances are available in universal colors – white, black, steel. Multi-chamber models with French-Door hinged doors, such as the Miele KF2981Vi, have two cooling circuits. Among their advantages are variable compartments, an ice maker with a connection to the water supply, control from mobile devices.
Smeg
An Italian manufacturer that pays attention not only to the working qualities of devices, but also to their appearance. Refrigerators from the series in the style of the 50s of the 20th century with characteristic rounded outlines and bright colors are widely known. Models such as the Smeg FAB28RDUN5 or the Smeg FAB10LDUJ5 with one door come with a two-year warranty thanks to a reliable electromechanical control system. Models from the Coloniale collection in cream color with retro-style brass fittings – the classic two-chamber Smeg FA860PS or Smeg SBS8004PO Side-by-Side – have a Multizone compartment in which you can set any temperature, a child lock, and an ice maker connected to plumbing.
Gorenje
The Slovenian brand produces refrigerators and freezers that attract customers with affordable prices, unusual design and economy. All models of large capacity freezers, such as Gorenje FN6192PX or Gorenje FN61CSY2W, are equipped with No Frost defrosting technology and FastFreeze quick freezing function. Large Side-by-Side models – Gorenje NRS9181MX and others – have Multi-flow cooling and SensoTech electronic control.
The manufacturer also presents single-chamber models with a freshness zone that can be combined with freezers – such as the Gorenje R 6192 LB in a black case.
Asco
A brand whose products combine Scandinavian minimalism, respect for the environment and the latest food storage technologies. Premium built-in models are made only from safe and durable materials. Most devices are available in universal white and stainless steel.
Asko RF31831I and Asko RFN31842I bottom freezer models have No Frost defrost system. The DuraFresh™ freshness zone with independent temperature control allows you to keep fruits, vegetables, meat and dairy products longer. For a small apartment, a small Asko F2282I freezer or Asko R2282I refrigerator with under-counter installation is suitable.
Hitachi
The Japanese brand produces multi-chamber refrigerators, as well as large free-standing two-chamber models with tempered glass facades in original shades – beige, black crystal, mirror crystal. Bottom freezer models – Hitachi R-BG 410 PU6X GBK K or Hitachi R-BG 410 PU6X GBE – are equipped with a Nano Titanium antibacterial filter. They have a dual-purpose compartment for storing vegetables or dairy and meat products with temperature and humidity control.
Large-capacity drawer freezer refrigerators such as the Hitachi R-G 690 GU XK have up to 5 compartments, including a vacuum compartment and an Aero-Care vegetable storage compartment. They can load more products thanks to thicker shelves and reinforced drawers.
Neff
The German company is widely known for its high-end built-in appliances, equipped with innovative FreshSafe technology to increase the shelf life of fresh herbs, meat products, cheeses, vegetables and fruits. The Neff KI7863D20R and Neff KI8865D20R models from the FreshSafe 3 series are also equipped with a compartment with a humidity control system. SoftClose technology will allow you to close the doors smoothly and softly, and HomeConnect will help you integrate the refrigerator into your home network for more convenient control.
The manufacturer also offers models without a freezer with an increased freshness zone with three separate containers, such as the Neff KI8818D20R. All built-in models are equipped with flat hinge technology for the rigid fixing of furniture fronts, which allows a door opening angle of up to 115°.
AEG
The well-known German brand, now part of the Electrolux group of companies, offers economical and stylish models in all sizes with energy class A +, as well as freezers and single-chamber devices. Standard tall refrigerators – AEG RCR636E5MW and others like them – are distinguished by a clear electronic control panel on the door, No Frost defrost freezer, FreshZone freshness zone.
Mini freezers only 82 cm high, such as the AEG ABR682F1AF, are equipped with the Frostmatic quick freeze function, while the large AEG ABR818F6NC built-in freezers guarantee stable operation in any room thanks to the SN-N-ST-T climate class.
Use this rating of refrigerator manufacturers to choose the best option.