I was totally amazed of all the bells and whistles in newer models of refrigerators. Like a keurig in the fridge, also hot or cold water. You may be surprised as well. Let’s take a look at types of refrigerators, some that are popular and some that are not worth the money.
Purpose of refrigerators
Its main function is to keep food and drink the correct temperature. Some models go above and beyond just making ice and cold water.
New kid on the block refrigerators
Best refrigerators can do so much more than ice cube trays. They can cool food, prevent mold growth, automatically clean and sanitize your refrigerator and just about any other task that a home’s refrigerator does.
Smart refrigerators do some really cool things. Some models monitor the energy the fridge is using and send the information to your smart phone, so you can make any adjustments that might be needed.
Smart refigerators can have screens that where you can access your calender, get recipes (it actually looks at what is available food wise that you can cook something with the ingredients that are already available.) Some have a half screen that is clear so you can look in the fridge for whatever without you opening the fridge door. How cool is that?
Unfortunately, prices are out of this world. Prices start from $599.00 to $3500.00. This is where you have to give up some of the cool features that you really do not need.
Types of refrigerators
The six types of fridge configurations are top or bottom freezer, French door, side-by-side, undercounter, and quad door refrigerators. Most refrigerators are freestanding but you can find built-in fridges and counter depth models among the types of refrigerators.You can get them built in and you can even purchase one that matches your cupboards.
Refrigerator types comparison chart
Refrigerator type Basic door style features*French DoorTwo doors on top; freezer drawer on bottom
- Wide refrigerator and freezer compartments for items like frozen pizza or large casserole dishes and platters
- More refrigerator capacity vs freezer capacity
- Adjustable shelves, compartments, and more for customizable storage
- Exterior ice and water dispensers
Side by SideTwo doors that open from the center; freezer on one side refrigerator on the other
- Slightly more freezer capacity vs a French door refrigerator
- Vertical storage to keep both fresh and frozen items at eye level
- Adjustable shelves, door bins, and more for customizable storage
- Exterior ice and water dispensers
- Reduced door swing clearance—great for narrow or tight spaces
Top Freezer Freezer is located above below refrigerator with a separate door for each
- A traditional refrigerator setup and look
- More refrigerator space than freezer space
- Easy access to frozen items
- Large door clearances, requiring more open space in front of the unit
- A streamlined set of features and an entry price-point
Bottom Freezer Freezer is on the bottom and refrigerator is on the top with a door for each that opens on the side
- Larger refrigerator compartment vs freezer compartment
- Easy access to fresh items
- Large door clearances, requiring more open space in front of the unit
- A streamlined set of features and an entry price-point
Undercounter Installed under a counter and is usually only a refrigerator; door opens from the side
- Additional food or beverage storage
- Ability to create specialized temperature zones or overflow cold food storage
- A single reversible door
- Undercounter installation for a seamless integration with cabinets
Quad Door Four doors open from the center: two doors for the freezer on the bottom and two doors for the refrigerator on top
- Flexible organization spaces
- Easy reach shelves
- Unique look
- Four door design helps with organization and accessibility
- Cleaning is easy as you can choose to empty only one quadrant as a time
What is the best way to compare different types of refrigerators?
When choosing which type of fridge is best for you, consider factors such as:
1. Size
French door and side-by-side models tend to offer larger capacities with top or bottom freezer fridges offering more compact options. Explore our guide to refrigerator sizes and dimensions to learn more.
2. Style
Choose a top freezer fridge if you want a classic style or go for a French door if you’re looking for something more modern. For a premium look, consider a built-in installation or counter-depth fridge.
3. Space/cubic feet
Side-by-side refrigerators may offer a little more freezer storage compared to other fridges. French door along with top and bottom freezer refrigerators provide wide cavities but you’ll have to choose whether you want fresh food or frozen at eye level.
4. Organization options
Look for the kinds of shelves and storage compartments or bins you’ll use the most. A fridge featuring adjustable storage options will let you customize the layout for your needs. Get help organizing your fridge to help keep your food fresh.
5. Features
A top or bottom freezer fridge with a streamlined set of features can still provide excellent cold storage. If you’re looking for some additional options like exterior ice and water, specialized temperature zones and spill-proof shelves, look to French door and side-by-side models.
6. Finishes
Most refrigerators are available in white, black and stainless steel. Black stainless steel is another finish option that offers an updated take on a classic finish. Whirlpool brand also offers select models featuring a fingerprint resistant stainless finish that resists smudges and easily wipes clean. However recently I have seen colored glass on the front and bottom of the fridge.
Conclusion Best and worst refrigerators by consumer reports
Top-rated Samsung three-door refrigerator with Family Hub: Samsung large capacity 3-door French door refrigerator with Family Hub, $3,099 Top-rated Samsung four-door refrigerator with Family Hub: Samsung smart 4-door Flex refrigerator with Family Hub (counter depth), $3,899
Worst Brands
Based on our research and recall data from the CPSC, you should avoid refrigerator brands like Bosch, Frigidaire, KitchenAid, Maytag, and Thermador. Maytag recalled 46,000 units due to a fire hazard in recent years. Frigidaire and KitchenAid are the worst-rated refrigerator brands for customer service. Instead, buy brands like LG, GE, Whirlpool, Danby and Samsung fridges.
This article is just a quick skim on refrigerators. You must do more research on what you are looking for. I do hope that you learned something new from this article.
Kathie