Kenmore 76252

Although the 21.9-cubic-foot Kenmore Elite 76252 is a little more expensive than some other bottom-freezer refrigerators, experts and consumers single it out as a great choice. Although you won't find a water filter or dispenser, nearly every other important convenience feature is present, including an automatic ice maker and a pull-out freezer drawer with two removable baskets. The 76252 is Energy Star-qualified to the latest standards, meaning it is less costly to run than many competing choices. This refrigerator is white, but black, bisque and stainless-steel versions are also available. If you have a smaller budget and don't mind that the freezer is on the top, the Kenmore 74192 (*Est. $600) is about one cubic foot smaller and costs about half as much.

ConsumerReports.org is one of the most prolific testers of refrigerators, and the Kenmore Elite 76252 bottom freezer is among the models covered in the magazine's most recent survey. Kenmore refrigerators are sold exclusively through Sears, and that company's website is the only place to read user-written reviews.