Best refrigerators in 2024

Best Refrigerators: Quick Menu

Every kitchen needs one of the best refrigerators. It’s a piece of kitchen kit that you can’t be without. But what do you need to look for in a good refrigerator? The best refrigerators stand out for their consistent and accurate temperature control — providing the optimal, safe environment for food storage. So, even when the doors are open for stocking up or removing items for meals and snacks, the refrigerator will recover quickly from temperature fluctuations. The design and capacity are important factors too, providing designated areas for different food types, and adjustable shelf heights for shorter or taller items. So, how can you tell which refrigerator will offer all of the above, and more, while keeping your food fresh?

That’s where we come in. We’ve done the research to find the best refrigerator you can buy with a range of price options to suit every budget. We’ve searched the market and compared  a shortlist of models, and considered the capacity, energy consumption, and any special features. There's also lots of new possibilities in the refrigeration market with state-of-the-art technology playing a big part in recent years. Premium models now offer smart connectivity, touchscreen displays, internal cameras and reactive glass doors. 

Once we knew what each model offered, we compared online consumer reviews and checked for any consistent benefits and shortfalls. 

Finally, we compiled our research to form the below list of the best refrigerators, with an option to suit every kind of kitchen. Whether you want the latest technology, or a compact design, we’ve got a recommendation.

Recent updates

Frigidaire issued a recall for their line of Frigidaire Branded Side by Side Refrigerators with Slim Ice Buckets on February 08, 2024. The recall applies to models manufactured between 2015 and 2019. These models contain an ice bucket assembly component that can break, with pieces entering the ice bucket, causing serious harm if ingested. Consumers are urged to stop using the ice makers and contact Electrolux Group for a replacement. Check here to find out if your serial number is included in this recall: https://www.frigidaire.com/en/frigidaire-recall-information

The quick list

Here’s the best refrigerators you can buy right now based on our comprehensive research. Scroll on for our full in-depth reviews.

The best refrigerators you can buy today

GE Profile PFE28KYNFS

(Image credit: GE)

1. GE Profile PFE28KYNFS

The best refrigerator overall

Specifications

Size (with hinges, handles and doors): 69.8 x 35.7 x 36.25 inches
Refrigerator Capacity: 18.5 cu ft.
Freezer Capacity: 9.17 cu ft.
Ice/Water dispenser: Yes/Yes
Energy Consumption: 725 kWh/year

Reasons to buy

+
Excellent performance
+
Useful temperature-controlled drawer
+
Hands-free water dispenser
+
EnergyStar certified

Reasons to avoid

-
 No smart features 

The best refrigerator overall, the GE Profile PFE28KYNFS French door refrigerator is beautifully designed and has a smudge-proof stainless steel finish to keep it looking spiffy. In it you’ll find lots of features for organizing and protecting food. It has a full width shelf with temperature control; at the coldest setting it will keep meat fresh longer and on the warmer one it’s ideal for stashing party trays or a cake when you’re entertaining. One of the shelves slides under itself to make room for a tall item like a pineapple or a giant soda bottle. In the freezer there’s two baskets with dividers to keep food from getting lost in a giant bin. 

When you place a glass in the water dispenser, it fills it automatically, so you don’t have to stand and press a button as it dispenses. This is one of the only refrigerators with an advanced water filter that removes pharmaceuticals such as ibuprofen, as well as chlorine and lead. The GE Profile also is available with a slate or black stainless-steel finish.

Best value

Samsung RT18M6215SRbest value awards badge

(Image credit: Samsung)

2. Samsung RT18M6215SR

Best value refrigerator

Specifications

Size (with hinges, handles and doors): 66 x 28 x 31 inches
Refrigerator Capacity: 12.7 cu ft.
Freezer Capacity: 4.9 cu ft.
Ice/Water dispenser: Yes/No
Energy Consumption: 448 kWh/year

Reasons to buy

+
Good amount of storage space 
+
The freezer compartment is convertible from freezer to fridge 
+
Premium appearance 
+
Inexpensive

Reasons to avoid

-
Dents easily

The Samsung RT18M6215SR is the refrigerator to get if you want a great deal and don’t always have use for a freezer. It features FlexZone technology, which means you can convert the freezer compartment to further fridge space. Plus, with 17.6 cu.ft of capacity in total, it’s a good amount of space for such a compact design. The design has a premium appearance, with stainless steel and black stainless steel options available. However, be wary that some found it dents easily. 

It comes with a built-in ice maker, plus internal LED lighting — useful if you get cravings in the night. Three refrigerator shelves are also included, along with one shelf in the freezer compartment. It’s worth flagging that these are full-length shelves though, so if you need to store taller items, you’re likely to lose a shelf. It’s Energy Star Certified, which means it will save you money in the long-run. That's another reason why it's such great value.  

Best French door

Frigidaire FFHB2750TS

(Image credit: Frigidaire)

3. Frigidaire FFHB2750TS

Best French Door refrigerator for families

Specifications

Size (with hinges, handles and doors): 70.1 x 36 x 28.75
Refrigerator Capacity: 18 cu ft.
Freezer Capacity: 8.7 cu ft.
Ice/Water dispenser: Yes/Ye
Energy Consumption: 717 kWh/year

Reasons to buy

+
Great performance for the price
+
LED lighting
+
Ice and water dispenser 

Reasons to avoid

-
Full width deli drawer isn’t temperature controlled  
-
Not finger-print resistant
-
Digital panel isn't lit

There's nothing overly flashy about the stainless steel Frigidaire FFHB2750TS, but what you get is solid performance at a great price. It does have an LED control panel and even has an ice and water dispenser in the door. However, even though it has a wide drawer for things like party platters or sheet cakes, the drawer isn’t temperature controlled. So you can’t turn it down very low to keep meat fresh for an extended period of time.  

This is a counter depth model, so it won’t stick out and will give your kitchen a sleek, contemporary look. In the freezer, there are two baskets to help you keep frozen foods organized and easy to find. This Frigidaire is EnergyStar rated which means it’s among the models that are easiest on your electric bill.  

Best side-by-side

Samsung RS27T5200SR

(Image credit: Samsung)

4. Samsung RS27T5200SR

Best side-by-side refrigerator

Specifications

Size (with hinges, handles and doors): 35 7/8 x 70 1/16 x 33 ½
Refrigerator Capacity: 17.9 cu ft.
Freezer Capacity: 9.5 cu ft.
Ice/Water dispenser: Yes/Yes
Energy Consumption: 728 kWh/year

Reasons to buy

+
Generous capacity
+
Deep inner door shelves
+
Two ice styles to choose from

Reasons to avoid

-
Not very energy efficient

Samsung’s RS27T5200SR side-by-side refrigerator has a classy and timeless design, complete with ice and water dispenser built into the door. There are two styles of ice to choose from, cubed and crushed, and the water dispenser button also acts as a child lock to stop any accidents in the making. There’s ample storage space inside, with an overall capacity of 27.4 cubic feet, and the inner door shelves are particularly deep — great for holding large cartons.

It has a fingerprint-resistant finish to keep it looking pristine, and it’s available in stainless steel and black stainless steel colorways which will suit most modern kitchens. Our only gripe? It’s not the most energy efficient of refrigerators, needing 728 kWh/year to run and it doesn’t carry the Energy Star certification. It’s also not app-compatible, despite the steep price point. 

Best for small kitchens

GE GIE18GSNRSS

(Image credit: GE)

5. GE GIE18GSNRSS

Best refrigerator for small kitchens

Specifications

Size (with hinges, handles and doors): 67.4 x 28 x 32.5 inches
Refrigerator Capacity: 13.5 cu ft.
Freezer Capacity: 4 cu ft.
Ice/Water dispenser: No/No
Energy Consumption: 443 kWh/year

Reasons to buy

+
Inexpensive
+
Sliding deli drawer
+
Ice maker

Reasons to avoid

-
Single temperature control for refrigerator and freezer

If you need a small refrigerator, perhaps for an apartment, the no-frills GE GTE18GMHES is a nice-looking option. It has glass shelving and comes with an ice maker. For stashing cold cuts and cheeses, there’s a deli drawer that can be moved from one side to another to accommodate a tall item like a pitcher of lemonade. However, this GE lacks humidity controls for the crisper drawers and doesn't have independent controls for the fridge and freezer, so you'll have to pick between "colder" and coldest" for both.

It's the best refrigerator for smaller kitchens. While it's not huge by typical refrigerator standards, this model will give you more than enough room for a big grocery load. Unlike bigger, showier models it will barely make a dent in your electric bill. Three finishes are available: stainless steel, silver, and white.
  

Best smart tech

Samsung RF27T5501SR/AA Family Hub Refrigerator

(Image credit: Samsung)

6. Samsung Family Hub Refrigerator RF27T5501SR

The best smart refrigerator

Specifications

(starting)Size (with hinges, handles and doors): 70 x 35 ¾ x 35 ⅜
Refrigerator Capacity: 17.9 cu ft.
Freezer Capacity: 8.6 cu ft.
Ice/Water dispenser: Yes/Yes
Energy Consumption: 746 kWh/year

Reasons to buy

+
Touch screen display with smart features
+
Built-in cameras
+
Useful hidden drawer space for party platters 

Reasons to avoid

-
High energy consumption  

If you love all things smart home, you’ll want to invest in the Samsung Family Hub Refrigerator RF27T5501SR. Its predominant selling point is its touchscreen display, which allows you to access all kinds of innovative features. For instance, you can answer the front door, play your favorite music, leave notes for family members and even plan out your meals. By connecting the refrigerator to your phone, you can also remotely access and control the appliance. You can even see what’s inside of it while you’re away — useful if you need to check what’s in stock while shopping for groceries. 

This refrigerator comes with an impressive capacity as well — totalling 26.5 cu. ft. And a useful hidden draw within provides extra space for flat-storage items, such as party platters. It’s a little on the pricey side, but it’s not extortionate compared to other premium models on the market. It’s also Energy Star certified, although we did notice the energy consumption is a little high compared to others on our list. Ultimately, this refrigerator will provide more smart features than you know what to do with. If you love the latest tech and value smart connectivity, it’s worth the investment as one of the best refrigerators.      

Best bottom-freezer

LG LRDCS2603S

(Image credit: LG)

7. LG LRDCS2603S

Best bottom-freezer refrigerator

Specifications

Size (with hinges, handles and doors): 69 x 32 x 34
Refrigerator Capacity: 17.2 cu ft.
Freezer Capacity: 8.3 cu ft.
Icemaker/Water dispenser: Yes/No
Energy Consumption: 562 kWh/year

Reasons to buy

+
Generous capacity
+
Available in black stainless steel
+
Compact design

Reasons to avoid

-
 No ice or water dispenser 

If you’re looking for a premium single-door refrigerator, then look no further. The LG LRDCS2603S offers all the convenience of a more compact design, whilst still boasting an impressive capacity. With a total capacity of 25.5 cu ft, this bottom-freezer refrigerator will easily hold enough groceries for a small family. On top of that, it comes with some quality features, including an ice maker and LED lighting. Plus, it’s available in a black stainless steel design as well as standard stainless steel, so you can match it to your kitchen. 

True, there’s no smart connectivity, but you still get a premium design with a generous internal layout, including three shelves and three trays in the refrigerator, and two tray layers in the freezer. It’s not the cheapest, but with it being Energy Star Certified, this refrigerator will pay for itself over time. Just bear in mind that it doesn’t come with an ice or water dispenser.    

Best counter-depth

Bosch B36CT80SNS

(Image credit: Bosch)

8. Bosch Counter-Depth Refrigerator B36CT80SNS

Best counter-depth refrigerator

Specifications

Size (with hinges, handles and doors): 72 x 28.5 x 35
Refrigerator Capacity: 15 cu ft.
Freezer Capacity: 6 cu ft.
Icemaker/Water dispenser: Yes/Yes
Energy Consumption: 570 kWh/year
Features: Easy to clean stainless steel finish, Chiller drawer, EnergyStar Certified

Reasons to buy

+
Internal water dispenser
+
Useful temperature and humidity controlled pantry drawer
+
EnergyStar certified

Reasons to avoid

-
Expensive

If you’re looking for a counter-depth refrigerator, style is probably super important to you and the Bosch 800 Series B36CT80SNS French door model delivers in spades. It’s handsomely designed in a fingerprint-resistant stainless steel and is packed with special features. There’s no ice and water dispenser in the exterior to detract from its sleek appearance, but it has a dispenser inside the fridge door and an ice bin that you can pull out. The ice cubes are uniquely shaped in small pyramids so even they seem special.

Inside there’s a pantry drawer that’s both humidity and temperature controlled so if the two crispers don’t give you enough room for fresh produce, you have another compartment to keep fruits and vegetables crisp. The freezer has 3 bins to keep foods organized and minimize scrounging around to find that bag of peas you know is in there somewhere. By downloading the associated Bosh Home Connect app, you can control the Bosch remotely.

Best premium

LG LRFVS3006S refrigerator

(Image credit: LG)

9. LG LRFVS3006S

The best premium refrigerator for cocktail lovers

Specifications

Size (with hinges, handles and doors): 68.8 x 35.7 x 36.7 inches
Refrigerator Capacity: 19.3 cu. ft.
Freezer Capacity: 10.4 cu. ft.
Ice/Water dispenser: Yes/Yes
Energy Consumption: 770 kWh/year
Features: Door-in-Door, Fingerprint-resistant stainless steel, Automatic water dispenser, Temperature controlled drawer, EnergyStar certified

Reasons to buy

+
Makes spheres of ice
+
Useful temperature-controlled drawer
+
Hands-free water dispenser
+
EnergyStar certified

Reasons to avoid

-
Not suited for small kitchens

What’s really unique about the LG LRFV3006S is that it can make beautiful clear balls of ice for high balls or craft cocktails. But of course you get a lot more than that in a fridge that sells for big bucks. This is a French door model with a door in one of the doors that opens on a compartment that’s useful for stashing things your family  grabs often like drinks, yogurt, or snacks. When you knock on the door twice, the window in the door lights up so you can see what’s in there before opening it, preventing cold air from escaping while you scrounge around. On the other door, there’s an ice and water dispenser that can accommodate your tallest water bottle or a pitcher and will fill it to a precise amount so you don’t have to stand and press the lever until your glass is full. 

Inside there’s a drawer with temperature control for keeping meat icy cold or fruit at a pleasant eating  temp as well as two crispers designed to keep produce longer. This is an EnergyStar certified refrigerator which means it will be relatively easy on your electric bill. Connect the LG to Wi-Fi and you can change the temperature from an app on your phone or troubleshoot problems before calling for a service technician. 

How we chose

We conducted extensive online research to find the best refrigerators. We took our time reading up countless reviews to find those with the highest and most consistent ratings. Any faults or recurring problems were an immediate red flag during this research. Those models which were shortlisted demonstrated the highest reputation from consumers and came strongly recommended. 

Once we had this list, we also factored in the specifications of every model. We looked at capacity, energy consumption and added features, such as ice and water dispensers. In doing this, we were able to find the models that have the most to offer. During our research, we made sure to consider and include different sizes of refrigerators and alternative layouts to suit all kinds of homes. 

Swipe to scroll horizontally
Specifications compared
Row 0 - Cell 0 Size (inches)Refrigerator capacity (cu ft)Freezer capacity (cu ft)Ice/Water dispenserEnergy consumption (kWh/year)
GE Profile PFE28KYNFS69.8 x 35.7 x 36.318.59.17Yes/Yes725
Samsung RT18M6215SR66 x 28 x 3112.74.9Yes/No448
Frigidaire FFHB2750TS70.1 x 36 x 28.8188.7Yes/Yes717
Samsung RS27T5200SR70.063 x 35.88 x 33.517.99.5Yes/Yes728
GE GIE18GSNRSS67.4 x 28 x 32.513.54No/No443
Samsung Family Hub Refrigerator RF27T5501SR70 x 35.8 x 35.3817.98.6Yes/Yes746
LG LRDCS2603S69 x 32 x 3417.28.3Yes/No562
Bosch Counter-Depth Refrigerator B36CT80SNS72 x 28.5 x 35156Yes/Yes570
LG LRFVS3006S68.8 x 35.7 x 36.719.310.4Yes/Yes770

Refrigerator sales and deals

If you’re thinking about buying a new refrigerator, be sure to check out our best refrigerator sales and deals page first. We’re constantly updating this with the latest offers and some of our favorite brands have made an appearance.   

How to choose


Refrigerator Type
There are four main types of refrigerators:

  • French Door: This is the most popular model, with two doors that open the refrigerator compartment. This feature makes it easier to access the fridge, such as when a kitchen island might prevent you from fully opening a full-size door. These refrigerators also have the freezer section on the bottom.
  • Side-by-side: These two-door refrigerators have the freezer compartment on the left side and the refrigerator compartment on the right. This style makes it easier to reach items in the freezer — you don't have to bend down — but makes it harder to fit in wider items, such as pizza boxes and sheet cakes. For this reason, you need to watch you don't overfill your freezer
  • Top freezer: As the name suggests, the freezer is on the top, with a single door below for the refrigerator. These models make it easier to get to the freezer, at the expense of having to bend down to reach the lower drawers of the refrigerator.
  • Bottom freezer: With the freezer on the bottom, this style of refrigerator makes everything in the main compartment at waist level or higher. It's better for those who don't use their freezer as often. Freezers which are located towards the bottom tend to be easier to defrost manually. So you're less likely to worry about how to defrost a freezer.  Ever wondered how long will food last in your freezer? We've got the answer. 

Standard vs. counter depth
Many refrigerators come in two sizes: standard and counter depth. Counter-depth refrigerators are not as deep, so their front edge will be aligned with your countertop and kitchen cabinets. While more stylish, this makes them both smaller and more expensive than standard-size refrigerators.

Finish
Stainless steel is currently the most popular finish for all kitchen appliances — black stainless steel is even trendier — but you can also get refrigerators in more traditional white or black. Higher end models can also be outfitted with cabinet-like exteriors, so that they blend in with the rest of your kitchen's decor. 

Is it magnetic? Keep in mind that many stainless steel models are not magnetic, so you'll have a harder time posting your kids' artwork and report cards, not to mention those takeout menus.

Will it fit?
There's nothing worse than ordering a fridge, only to find out it won't fit through your front door. Before buying a refrigerator, be sure to measure every opening it will have to go through. Since you can remove the doors from a refrigerator, you have a little more leeway. But, be sure that once it's installed, you'll be able to fully open its doors.

If you're replacing a refrigerator, measure your current model; you'll know that a fridge that size will fit.

Price
Refrigerators really can vary in price, with entry level models starting from less than $400, ranging all the way up $3,000 for the most premium designs. For that reason you should have a budget in mind before you start browsing and consider which features you actually need. A touchscreen display looks incredible, but it will soon mount up the price. 

When to replace a refrigerator

Most brands will offer a one year warranty with a refrigerator, although the National Association of Home Builders says the lifespan of this product should be around 13 years. Extended warranties are available, however we don’t recommend these because it tends to cost more than any potential repairs. If your repair costs more than half the value of a new refrigerator, we recommend simply replacing it.

The most common refrigerator fault is that it’s struggling to keep the food chilled. Don’t pick up the phone to call a repairman just yet, as this could be fixed easily. The first step is to give both the gasket and coils a quick clean. You should also take a look at what temperature the refrigerator is set to — you might be able to lower it from here. If, on the other hand, your refrigerator is too cold, you can check the internal temperature setting once again. Otherwise, you might have to call in a professional. This problem could be caused by a faulty ice and water dispenser, which you should repair if possible. If the condenser is the problem and your refrigerator isn’t new, then it might be best to replace it. 

A refrigerator is constantly running, so it naturally uses up more energy than other appliances. Modern designs are much more energy efficient however, so if you replace an older model, you might notice a difference on your bills. If you’re shopping for a new refrigerator, it’s worth buying one which is Energy Star certified as these are roughly 9% more efficient, which will save you about $200 over its lifetime.    

Features to look for

The latest refrigerators come with lots of design features to improve their efficiency and to make them more convenient. 

Humidity-controlled bins: Some feature specific produce bins with humidity controls and drawers which can maintain colder temperatures. This will make your meat and vegetables last much longer as both can be stored at the ideal temperature. 

Exterior doors: Other models come with small compartments or drawers which can be opened without opening the whole refrigerator. This is ideal for grabbing snacks and means the fridge can better maintain its temperature. Look out for compartments which can be switched from fridge to freezer too. 

Ever wondered if you should keep eggs in the refrigerator? The answer might surprise you.

Reversible doors: If you’re tight for space, reversible doors can be a very useful feature. This essentially means you can remove the fridge/freezer door and install it on the opposite side, so you can open it from left to right, rather than right to left for instance. 

Glass doors: You will find this premium feature on LG’s InstaView models. You can essentially see straight into the refrigerator without opening the door by knocking twice — useful for retaining the temperature. 

Touch screen: The latest refrigerator designs from Samsung come with touch screen displays. These can do all sorts, from ordering groceries and displaying your calendar to playing music and connecting with your smart home system. These aren’t the cheapest, but they’re certainly impressive.  

Water/ice dispensers: Some Water dispensers can automatically fill a glass and some ice dispensers can produce crushed or shaved ice. The possibilities are endless! Many more colors are available these days as well — you don’t have to have a stainless steel finish! 

"Smart" features: Smart fridges are much more common too. These can be controlled from your smartphone and will let you know when they detect a fault. Some can even self-diagnose, so the serviceperson will arrive with the right parts. 

Next: These are the 11 foods that you should never put in the fridge. And don’t make these 7 refrigerator mistakes.

Also, have you ever wondered if you should keep eggs in the refrigerator? The answer might surprise you.

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Katie Mortram
Homes Editor

Katie looks after everything homes-related, from kitchen appliances to gardening tools. She also covers smart home products too, so is the best point of contact for any household advice! She has tested and reviewed appliances for over 6 years, so she knows what to look for when finding the best. Her favorite thing to test has to be air purifiers, as the information provided and the difference between performances is extensive.