Refrigerators: Reviews

Traditional top-freezer refrigerators are less expensive than other types and tend to be more reliable since there are fewer features to break. However, these units don't perform as well as other types of refrigerators in… expandprofessional tests. The 21-cubic-foot Maytag M1TXEMMWW is a strong performer in tests and is rated highly by users, who say it is very quiet and roomy. It includes an ice maker, adjustable door bins, two humidity-controlled crispers, a deli drawer and tempered glass shelves. This refrigerator is Energy Star-rated and comes in white, bisque, black and (for $150 more) stainless steel. Note that while some Maytag refrigerators have a poor track record for reliability, we saw very few breakdown complaints for this particular model. collapse

Bottom-freezer refrigerators are more convenient than top-freezers for most people, since the contents of the refrigerator are closer to eye level and don't require bending over to access. They also tend to be a little… expandmore energy efficient. The LG LBC22520SW has a relatively large 22.4 cubic foot capacity and a nice set of extras including a door alarm, an antibacterial seal and extra lighting in the interior (including a freezer light). Storage options include split glass shelves, five adjustable gallon door bins, a snack bin, two humidity-controlled crispers and a dairy bin. Unlike most bottom-freezer refrigerators, the freezer has a swing-open door rather than a drawer. Both doors are reversible. The LG is available in white, black and (for $150 more) stainless steel. collapse

French-door models have two side-by-side refrigerator doors atop a pull-out freezer drawer. Unlike a side-by-side refrigerator, the interior shelving is the full width of the unit. This Samsung refrigerator is available… expandin white and black, and in stainless-steel and platinum finishes for $200 more. The top-rated 26-cubic-foot Samsung French-door refrigerator costs less than most refrigerators of this style. It has a filtered interior ice and water dispenser, electronic controls and a quick-chill feature to rapidly cool down drinks or other items. Owners say that it is exceptionally quiet and spacious, with plenty of storage. collapse

Side-by-side refrigerators are a good choice for narrow kitchens where door clearance is an issue. However, their through-the-door ice and water dispensers are repair-prone. The 25.1-cubic-foot Kenmore Cold Spot 59422… expandreceives solid ratings in one professional test, and strong ratings from owners. Kenmore is also a relatively reliable brand, according to owner surveys, and this refrigerator is unusually inexpensive for a side-by-side fridge. It has a filtered through-the-door ice and water dispenser, spill-proof glass shelves and two crispers made with antibacterial plastic, and is Energy Star-rated. It comes in white and black, but not in stainless steel. collapse