Refrigerators
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By Daniel Wroclawski
Choose the Right Fridge for Your Kitchen
Our comprehensive guide helps you choose a model for your household—with the information that matters on style, size, capacity, and features
Photo: Hisense
Top Refrigerators Questions
- Which type of refrigerator should I choose? Arrow link
- How do I measure for a new refrigerator? Arrow link
- What size refrigerator should I buy? Arrow link
- How do I know if a refrigerator is energy-efficient? Arrow link
- What are the most interesting extra features? Arrow link
- Which brands make the most reliable refrigerators? Arrow link
- How should I shop for a new refrigerator? Arrow link
Which type of refrigerator should I choose?
There’s a refrigerator configuration to suit every household. French-door models are popular because of their high-end aesthetic. Bottom-freezers are less expensive and still put fresh food at eye level. Side-by-sides fit better in a smaller kitchen because of their narrow doors. See our full refrigerator ratings for how models in each category performed in our tests.
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French-Door Refrigerators
Price $1,000 – $5,000
Widths 28 – 37 inches
Capacity Up to 31 cubic feet
French-Door Refrigerator Ratingspros & cons
- Attractive and popular designs available
- Fresh-food doors need less space to swing open
- Actual storage capacities may be much less than claimed
- Tend to use more energy and cost more to run
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Bottom-Freezer Refrigerators
Price $600 – $2,900
Widths 24 – 33 inches
Capacity Up to 26 cubic feet
Bottom-Freezer Refrigerator Ratingspros & cons
- Easy access to often used fresh food items
- May be more expensive and offer less storage than top-freezers
- Freezer bins require bending to access
- May lack features such as water dispensers
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Side-By-Side Refrigerators
Price $1,100 – $2,500
Widths 33 – 36 inches
Capacity Up to 29 cubic feet
Side-By-Side Refrigerator Ratingspros & cons
- Narrow doors make them ideal for tight kitchens
- More features such as icemakers and water dispensers
- Narrow freezers make it difficult to store wide items, like pizza boxes
- Not as energy- or space-efficient as other types of refrigerator
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Top-Freezer Refrigerators
Price $500 – $1,700
Widths 22 – 33 inches
Capacity Up to 24 cubic feet
Top-Freezer Refrigerator Ratingspros & cons
- Tend to offer the most space for their size
- More affordable and reliable than other types
- Doors need a wide space to swing open
- May lack features such as icemakers and water dispensers
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Built-In Refrigerators
Price $6,000 – $20,000
Widths 30 – 49 inches
Capacity Up to 29 cubic feet
Built-In Refrigerator Ratingspros & cons
- Designed to sit flush with cabinetry and countertops for a luxury look
- Available in multiple configurations, such as column, side-by-side and French-door
- Very expensive, especially compared with similar freestanding fridges
- Less interior storage space compared with other fridge types
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Mini Fridges
Price $120 - $260
Widths 18 - 21 inches
Capacity Up to 3.5 cubic feet
Mini Fridge Ratingspros & cons
- Small size makes them easy to place in different areas, from a wet bar to a home office
- Very affordable compared with full-sized refrigerators
- Rare to find a model where both the fridge and freezer compartments work well
- Few, if any, features beyond an interior light
How do I measure for a new refrigerator?
Take multiple measurements of your refrigerator space (rather than the existing fridge) to find the maximum width, depth, and height. Measure each dimension in multiple spots in case your floors aren’t level. Remember to factor in any baseboards or trim.
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Measure the width of your refrigerator space
Measure in several places to account for uneven walls, baseboards, and other trim. Subtract 1 inch on either side from your final measurements for ventilation.
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Measure the height of your refrigerator space
Measure in several places to account for uneven floors. Subtract 1 inch above the refrigerator for ventilation.
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Measure the depth of your refrigerator space
Some refrigerators can extend up to 10 inches beyond the countertop, so it’s good to keep depth in mind, especially in a small or narrow kitchen space. Allow at least 1 inch of space for airflow behind the refrigerator.
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Certain widths are more common than others
Refrigerators are available in a variety of widths. A 36-inch width is considered standard, but other common widths are 24 inches, 28 inches, 30 inches, and 33 inches. For built-ins, 42-inch and 48-inch widths are also available.
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Counter-depth options
Refrigerators often extend up to 10 inches beyond cabinets. For a closer fit, consider a counter-depth model, although these models will still stick out a few inches from your cabinetry. For a truly counter-depth fridge, consider a built-in.
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Measure in front
Make sure there is room in front of the refrigerator for doors to swing open, especially if your kitchen has an island or narrow walkway.
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Plan a delivery path
Plot a pathway through your home that will allow delivery of the new refrigerator into the kitchen area. It will need to fit through doorways and halls.
What size refrigerator should I buy?
Our refrigerator ratings are organized by width, allowing you to easily see the highest-rated models in the size that fits your space. You’ll find models ranging from a whopping 48 inches wide down to 24 inches for full-sized fridges, and even narrower for mini fridges. We also note the height and depth of each tested model.
To help you find the best refrigerators outside the standard dimensions, we have guides to the best counter-depth refrigerators, 30-inch-wide refrigerators, and 33-inch-wide refrigerators.
As for the ideal storage capacity, most refrigerator manufacturers recommend 19 to 22 cubic feet for a family of four. But if you do a big weekly shopping trip or buy in bulk, you may need more—up to 30 to 33 cubic feet. Note: Our tests have found the amount of usable storage is often less than what’s claimed by manufacturers. Check our refrigerator ratings for the actual capacity of each model. And for the best large fridges from our ratings, see this guide to the best refrigerators for big families.
How do I know if a refrigerator is energy-efficient?
Energy efficiency has become a big priority for many people. All new refrigerators are much more efficient than models from a decade ago, but they're not all created equal. The information on a refrigerator’s EnergyGuide label will help you find a model that will keep your utility bills in check.
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Key features of the appliance and similar models that make up the cost comparison range.
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Manufacturer, model, and capacity of the appliance.
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Estimated yearly operating cost (based on the national average electricity cost) and the range of operating costs for similar models.
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Estimated yearly electricity consumption.
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The Energy Star logo indicates that this model meets the program’s strict criteria for energy efficiency.
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Look for Energy Star
The Environmental Protection Agency’s Energy Star rating, which you can find at the bottom right of the EnergyGuide label, means that a product is in or around the top 25 percent of the market in terms of efficiency.
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Efficiency varies by type
For example, a noncertified top-freezer refrigerator might be more efficient than an Energy Star certified French-door model.
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Compare the annual operating costs
For an apples-to-apples comparison of which models are most efficient, look at the EnergyGuide labels of the refrigerators you’re considering, and compare the annual operating costs and the kilowatt-hours used per year.
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Check the ratings
CR tests refrigerators for energy consumption, which can add $50 to $60 per year to your energy bills, or more than $500 over the life of the unit. (Refrigerators should last roughly 10 years.)
What are the most interesting extra features?
Refrigerators are increasingly tricked out with options to make your life easier and more organized. French-door models are usually the most loaded, but be aware that the newest gadgets will add to the cost.
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Through-the-Door Ice and Water Dispenser
This is one of the features most requested by buyers. Caveat: We find that models with this convenience also require the most repairs. Energy costs are higher, too, and you trade ice water for storage space.
Photo: Maytag -
Door-in-Door Storage Access
Without opening the entire door, you can grab frequently used beverages and condiments. That will save on energy costs in the long run. See the Best Door-in-Door Refrigerators from our tests.
Photo: GE -
Freshness Features
Dual evaporators help maintain higher humidity levels in the refrigerated areas and prevent freezer odors from migrating there. Air purifiers eliminate bacteria and mold spores, while vacuum-sealed crisper drawers are meant to keep food fresh longer. See My Refrigerator Is Making Smelly Ice Cubes. What's Wrong?
Photo: GE -
Better Shelves and Drawers
You can rearrange split shelves to different heights independently. Elevator shelves crank up and down without unloading. Shelf snuggers attach to racks to secure bottles and jars. Pullout shelves or bins make access to stored items easier.
Photo: Consumer Reports -
Cameras and Windows
Many refrigerators now offer new ways to see inside without opening their doors. Internal cameras can be viewed from your smartphone when you’re out grocery shopping, while transparent windows help you spend less time browsing with the fridge doors open, letting precious cool air escape.
Photo: Thermador -
Counter-Depth Options
A typical refrigerator can easily extend up to 10 inches beyond kitchen cabinets. Most counter-depth models stick out just a few inches past the countertop, providing a budget-friendly fit for smaller kitchens. See our guide to the Best Counter-Depth Refrigerators.
Photo: Haier -
Specialty Icemakers
You don’t have to stop at cubed or crushed ice. Some brands’ icemakers now create ice spheres or nugget ice for co*cktails.
Photo: Samsung -
Temperature Controls
You decide how cold your fridge is in specific areas. For example, you can set a drawer to be cooler than the rest of the fridge to better preserve meat, fish, and cold cuts. Learn more with Best Refrigerator Temperature to Keep Food Fresh.
Photo: LG -
WiFi Connectivity
More new models come with WiFi connectivity and a companion smartphone app, allowing you to remotely change fridge settings, adjust internal temperatures, and receive alerts if a door is left open.
Photo: Samsung
Which brands make the most reliable refrigerators?
CR doesn’t just test refrigerators in our labs. We also survey our members about their firsthand experiences with refrigerators to gauge a brand’s performance over time. In our most recent surveys, CR members told us about more than 80,000 new refrigerators (all with icemakers) that they purchased between 2013 and 2023. The refrigerator brands in the survey include Frigidaire, GE, Kenmore, KitchenAid, LG, Maytag, Samsung, and Whirlpool.
Our results reveal that about a third of all refrigerators require repairs by the end of their fifth year of ownership, making them one of the least reliable appliances we analyze in our member surveys. The two most commonly reported problem areas for refrigerators were icemakers and dispensers. Top-freezers are more reliable than other types of refrigerator, including the coveted French-door style, but our members generally like top-freezers and side-by-sides less than other fridge types. (Note: Our survey results don’t include mini fridges.)
To learn more about the survey results and sift through details across brands, check out our guide to the most and least reliable refrigerator brands.
How should I shop for a new refrigerator?
Once you’ve settled on a fridge style and size, and the features you want, it’s time to start shopping. Read CR’s guide to the best refrigerators of the year, or try out our Find Your Perfect Fridge tool that automatically filters our refrigerator ratings based on your needs.
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It Pays to Wait
If your current refrigerator still works and you don’t need a new one right away, wait for the sales events over the next major holiday, such as Labor Day or Presidents Day. Refrigerator prices tend to dip in the summer and hit their lowest point during post-Thanksgiving sales.
Graphic: Consumer Reports, Getty Images -
Compare Prices
We always recommend that you comparison shop. Don’t forget to check independent retailers, and don’t be afraid to ask for a discount. If you aren’t sure where to start, see our guide to the best appliance stores.
Illustration: Consumer Reports, Getty Images -
Consider Buying Used
If you’re on a tight budget or simply looking for a good deal, consider buying a used refrigerator. You can get a higher-end model for a lot less than the retail price. The best places to look for used fridges are used-appliance stores and appliance repair shops. Both types of stores will usually give you a warranty, too. For more on purchasing used appliances, see our used-appliances guide.
Photo: Getty Images
As an enthusiast with a deep understanding of refrigerators and their features, I've explored various aspects of this essential kitchen appliance. My expertise extends from the different types of refrigerators to considerations like size, energy efficiency, and additional features. The article you provided is a comprehensive guide on choosing the right refrigerator for your household. Now, let's break down the concepts covered in the article:
Refrigerator Types:
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French-Door Refrigerators:
- Price: $1,000 – $5,000
- Widths: 28 – 37 inches
- Capacity: Up to 31 cubic feet
- Pros & Cons: Attractive designs, fresh-food doors need less space, but may use more energy.
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Bottom-Freezer Refrigerators:
- Price: $600 – $2,900
- Widths: 24 – 33 inches
- Capacity: Up to 26 cubic feet
- Pros & Cons: Easy access to fresh food, may be more expensive, freezer bins may require bending.
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Side-By-Side Refrigerators:
- Price: $1,100 – $2,500
- Widths: 33 – 36 inches
- Capacity: Up to 29 cubic feet
- Pros & Cons: Ideal for tight kitchens, more features, narrow freezers, and less energy-efficient.
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Top-Freezer Refrigerators:
- Price: $500 – $1,700
- Widths: 22 – 33 inches
- Capacity: Up to 24 cubic feet
- Pros & Cons: Most space for size, affordable, may lack features like icemakers.
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Built-In Refrigerators:
- Price: $6,000 – $20,000
- Widths: 30 – 49 inches
- Capacity: Up to 29 cubic feet
- Pros & Cons: Flush with cabinetry, available in various configurations, expensive with less interior space.
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Mini Fridges:
- Price: $120 - $260
- Widths: 18 - 21 inches
- Capacity: Up to 3.5 cubic feet
- Pros & Cons: Small and affordable, limited features, suitable for different areas.
Choosing the Right Size:
- Measure the refrigerator space, considering width, height, and depth.
- Standard widths include 36 inches, with common alternatives like 24, 28, 30, 33 inches.
- Counter-depth options provide a closer fit but may still extend a few inches.
Energy Efficiency:
- Energy Star rating indicates top 25% efficiency.
- Efficiency varies by type; compare annual operating costs.
- CR tests refrigerators for energy consumption, impacting yearly bills.
Extra Features:
- Through-the-Door Ice and Water Dispenser
- Door-in-Door Storage Access
- Freshness Features (Dual evaporators, air purifiers, vacuum-sealed crisper drawers)
- Better Shelves and Drawers
- Cameras and Windows
- Counter-Depth Options
- Specialty Icemakers
- Temperature Controls
- WiFi Connectivity
Reliability:
- CR surveyed over 80,000 refrigerators, finding about a third require repairs by the fifth year.
- Top-freezers are more reliable.
- Common issues: icemakers and dispensers.
Shopping Tips:
- Wait for sales events, especially around holidays.
- Compare prices, including independent retailers.
- Consider buying used for budget-friendly options.
With this comprehensive guide, you're equipped to choose the perfect refrigerator for your kitchen, considering your preferences, space constraints, and budget. If you have any specific questions or need further advice, feel free to ask!
