7 Best Refrigerators (2023 Guide)

There are several different types of refrigerators on the market, including:

• Top freezer: Top-freezer refrigerators are the classic refrigerator style that have been popular across the United States for decades. These models will cost less than newer configurations.
• Side-by-side: Side-by-side models have a vertical freezer on one side and a vertical refrigerator on the other. Some side-by-side refrigerators will feature built-in water or ice dispensers on the freezer side, which prevent you from needing to make your own ice with an ice cube tray.
• Bottom freezer: Bottom freezer configurations have become popular recently, as they provide a large amount of freezer space. The refrigerator portion is at eye level while the freezer portion typically opens like a drawer for easy access to frozen foods.
• French door: French door models have become popular for their sleek and modern appearance. Because you can open one side of the refrigerator without opening the other, french door refrigerators are considered more energy efficient than other models.
• Counter-depth: Counter-depth refrigerators can come in a variety of configurations, such as those listed above, but its distinguishing factor is its shorter depth to save floor space.

Capacity

The capacity of a refrigerator often depends on the design. The capacity that works best for your needs will depend on the number of people in your household, but you may also need to take your kitchen’s available space into account before you go shopping. With that in mind, we recommend that each adult in your household will has between 4–6 cubic feet of refrigerator space on average.

Compartments

Most refrigerators include at least two adjustable shelves that help make it easier to store and organize your food. Modern refrigerators also include side doors and shelves for storing smaller items like condiments, drinks, and toppings. Fridges also typically include a freezer compartment for storing frozen foods and goods.

Finishes

Each appliance manufacturer will offer its own suite of proprietary finish options, but you can typically find refrigerators in white, black, and stainless steel. In recent years, stainless steel has become the most popular option, but it will typically be more expensive than white and black colorways.

Additional Features

Refrigerator features can vary from model to model, especially between traditional and smart refrigerators. While there are many features to look for and consider when choosing a refrigerator, our team’s list includes the following:

• Door style
• Door alarms and child locks
• Shelves and organization drawers
• Built-in ice maker
• Built-in water dispenser
• Controls
• Screens
• Automatic temperature control

Energy Use

Many modern appliances come complete with Energy Star Certification. Energy Star-certified refrigerators must be at least 15% more efficient than the federal minimum standard for energy efficiency.

Brands

Hundreds of brands make refrigerators, most some are more trusted than others. Among the most well-established refrigerator retailers that we researched are LG, Whirlpool, Maytag, Samsung, Galanz, GE, Bosch, Insignia, Frigidaire, and Magic Chef. Other brands may also be reliable but have fewer customer and professional reviews, so be sure to research thoroughly before purchasing.