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Reviewed / Tim Renzi
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Credit:
Reviewed / Tim Renzi
Reviewed's mission is to help you buy the best stuff and get the most out of what you already own. Our team of product experts thoroughly vet every product we recommend to help you cut through the clutter and find what you need.
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Exclusive to Lowe's, the Hisense HRM260N6TSE is the best mid-range French-door refrigerator we've tested. Its best attribute is excellent temperature control. Read More
The Bosch B36FD50SNS French-door is nearly perfect. Temperatures in both the fridge and freezer are right on the mark, and it has a lot of storage. Read More
If you're willing to spend more for an amazing look and user experience, the Café CAE28DM5TS5 is one of the best 4-door fridges available. Read More
Though it requires calibration, this fridge will offer remarkably consistent temperatures and is one of the best values we've seen. Read More
This model offers substantial storage, excellent temperature control, and a cleverly designed beverage center. Read More
Whether you're upgrading your kitchen or replacing an old appliance, choosing a new refrigerator is a big decision that you’ll live with every day. We’ve tested dozens of fridges in our labs to determine the best refrigerators you can buy in 2025, and we’ve compiled our top picks below.
But finding the right fridge isn’t just about picking a top-rated model—it’s about getting a refrigerator that fits your space, budget, and lifestyle. In this comprehensive buying guide, we not only present our expert-tested favorites but also walk you through everything you should consider before making a purchase, from measuring your kitchen to selecting the ideal fridge style and features that suit your needs.
Looking for a Black Friday deal on an amazing fridge? The Bosch 800 Series is our top pick for a counter-depth refrigerator, and now you can save an extra $200 in your cart. Plus, 24-month special financing is also available. This offer is only valid through December 1, so don’t wait too long and miss out.
The Hisense HRM260N6TSE is one of the best fridges you can buy at this price point.
This Bosch fridge is outstanding in the category of 3-door French-door refrigerators.
This 4-door Café refrigerator has a premium feel and excellent performance.
The Samsung Bespoke RS28CB7600 is the best side-by-side refrigerator we've tested.
The Hotpoint HPS16BTNRWW refrigerator is inexpensive but extremely reliable where it counts.
Shopping for a refrigerator involves considering a range of practical factors before you click “buy,” from measuring your space to selecting a style, setting a budget, and understanding which features are most important.
| Refrigerator Style | Cost | Average Width |
|---|---|---|
| Top-freezer | $ | 28-33 inches |
| Bottom-freezer | $-$$ | 29-33 inches |
| Side-by-side | $$ | 30-36 inches |
| French-door | $$$ | 33-36 inches |
| Quad | $$$-$$$$ | 33-36 inches |
| Column | $$$$ | 24 or 30 inches |
There are several refrigerator styles for consumers to choose from—what you pick depends on your preferences, how you shop, and the space you have to work with.
Refrigerators come in various configurations, each with its own pros and cons. The best style for you depends on your kitchen layout, capacity needs, and personal preferences.
The freezer compartment on top, fridge below: the classic, old-school style that is the most budget-friendly. Top-freezer fridges are often narrower (typically 30 inches or less) and feature a simple design with fewer bells and whistles. At their best, they’re no-frills workhorses for those who just need basic food storage.
However, quality can vary widely; cheaper models may struggle to maintain steady temps. Additionally, the fridge section is positioned low to the ground, requiring considerable bending. Use case: Small kitchens, apartments, or as a secondary/garage fridge.
See also: Our picks for the best top-freezer refrigerators.
Freezer compartment at the bottom (usually a pull-out drawer), fridge above. By placing the freezer at the bottom, your fresh food is at eye level, which many find more convenient.
Bottom-freezer models are still relatively affordable, although they are typically a bit pricier than top-freezer models. They often have slightly more features and a better design. One downside: chest-style bottom freezers can become a bin where items get layered, making organization more challenging. Still, you won’t have frozen turkeys falling out onto your feet as often!
Bottom-freezer fridges strike a sweet spot between value and convenience, and they cost less on average than French-door fridges.
See also: Our best bottom-freezer fridge picks
Two tall compartments side by side—freezer on the left, fridge on the right. These have narrow doors that are great for kitchens with tight aisle space (they don’t swing out as far as a full-width door). Additionally, both the fridge and freezer sections run the full height of the unit, making freezer items more accessible (reducing bending compared to a bottom-freezer). However, each compartment is quite narrow; wide items, such as pizza boxes or large platters, can be difficult to fit. Visibility is sometimes an issue, too, as the deep, vertical sections can hide items in back.
It’s worth noting that side-by-sides can exhibit greater temperature variation from top to bottom, as cold air enters at the top and warmer air settles at the bottom of the tall compartment. We’ve found that the best side-by-side designs effectively minimize these issues. Use case: Smaller kitchens (limited door swing) or households that access the freezer and the fridge equally.
See also: Our best side-by-side refrigerators list
The French-door style is currently the most popular refrigerator style. These have two side-by-side half-doors on the fridge compartment (at the top) and a pull-out freezer drawer (at the bottom). French-door fridges combine the benefits of side-by-sides (space-saving doors) and bottom-freezers (eye-level fresh food) in a slightly wider footprint that can accommodate large trays and pizzas.
French doors also tend to offer the widest array of features, including ice and water dispensers, adjustable shelving, door-in-door compartments, and smart screens.
The main drawback is cost—French-door models start around $1,200 and can reach the thousands. Additionally, their freezer drawers, although spacious, can sometimes be less organized than those of a vertical freezer. Use case: Most families and kitchens (if budget allows), especially if you want the latest features.
See also: Our dedicated best French-door refrigerators guide
These innovative designs are essentially French-door fridges with two separate compartments below, rather than a single freezer drawer. In a quad-door, both bottom sections are either freezers or one is a convertible flex zone that can be set to either fridge or freezer temperatures as needed. This adds organizational flexibility and sometimes an extra layer of climate control.
Four-door models often carry a premium price but can be great for those who want multiple specialized compartments. Use case: Fans of organization and tech-forward kitchens.
These are high-end options where the fridge (and matching freezer, in the case of columns) is built into your cabinetry for a seamless look. Column fridges are stand-alone all-fridge or all-freezer units that you can mix and match—a look that’s common in luxury kitchens. They offer the ultimate in customization—various sizes, panel-ready fronts to match cabinets, etc.
However, built-ins and columns are significantly more expensive than freestanding fridges (often several times as much), and capacity can be lower for the same size. We don’t test these styles (they’re niche for most shoppers), but if you’re doing a high-end renovation, they’re worth considering.
Just remember, you will need to buy at least two units if you want both a refrigerator and a freezer. Use case: Custom luxury kitchens with large budgets.
Pick the style that fits your space and habits: If you’re on a tight budget or have a small kitchen, a top- or bottom-freezer may suffice (note that top-freezer designs are traditionally more energy-efficient than other layouts due to the compressor placement). If you value convenience and features and have the budget, a French-door is likely your best bet. Side-by-sides occupy a middle ground for specific space constraints. And if aesthetics and flexibility are top priorities (and price is no object), quad-door or built-in options could be the way to go.
The most important part of shopping for a refrigerator is measuring to ensure it fits in the space you have available.
Start by carefully measuring the space where you want to place your refrigerator and the pathways you will use to get it there. Refrigerators come in various widths and heights, so ensure the model you choose fits your kitchen cutout—and, more importantly, fits through your doorways.
If you’re asking, “how tall are refrigerators” and “how wide are refrigerators, anyway,” you’ve come to the right place. Standard fridge widths range from 23 inches for compact/top-freezer models to 36 inches or more for French doors and side-by-side models. Check height as well, especially if you have overhead cabinets, because refrigerator height can vary by more than 10 inches, depending on style and design. Most average between 62 and 72 inches tall, with top-freezer being shorter and French-door being taller.
Standard-depth fridges (often 30 inches or more in depth) protrude past cabinets, while counter-depth fridges (with a body depth of about 24 to 27 inches) sit flush for a built-in look. Counter-depth models look sleek and can make a kitchen feel more open, but they sacrifice some interior space (often 6 to 8 cubic feet less capacity than a standard-depth model of equivalent width). Decide which trade-off makes sense for you.
Also, leave at least 1 to 2 inches of breathing room on all sides for ventilation, as fridges require airflow to run efficiently. (See also: our best counter-depth fridge picks.)
Measure doorways, hallways, and stairs that the fridge must pass through on delivery. Many delivery-day disasters occur because the refrigerator is too large to fit through a narrow door or a tight corner. If you have a kitchen island or tight enclosure, ensure the fridge doors can open fully without hitting anything (most need the door width plus a couple of extra inches to swing open). In tight spaces, consider a French-door or side-by-side model, which requires less clearance than a full-width single door.
How big does your refrigerator really need to be? Fridge capacity is measured in cubic feet, which combines the internal storage space of both the fridge and freezer sections.
Refrigerator capacity is measured in cubic feet, which combines the internal storage space of both the fridge and freezer sections. But how big does your refrigerator really need to be?
One rule of thumb is to allocate approximately 4 to 6 cubic feet of fridge space per adult in your household. A family of four might aim for a 20-cubic-foot fridge. That said, design plays a big role in usable space—shelf configuration and bin storage can make a 20-cubic-foot fridge feel roomier than a poorly designed 25-cubic-foot one.
You should also consider your shopping habits. Do you grocery shop for a week at a time or stock up for a month? Do you buy in bulk or store lots of frozen goods? Do you often need to chill party platters, sheet cakes, or pizza boxes?
If you meal prep, have a large family, or host many dinner parties, opt for a larger size. If you eat out a lot or have a small household, you might not need a massive fridge (and a fuller fridge actually runs more efficiently than a mostly empty one).
Then there is the concept of the fridge/freezer split. Most fridges allocate around two-thirds of space to fresh food and one-third to the freezer. Side-by-sides are typically 60/40. If you require more freezer storage, consider models with larger freezer sections or multi-door fridges featuring flex drawers and convertible compartments. Otherwise, you can plan on a separate chest freezer, which may cost around $200.
Consider how the fridge's interior is organized. Features like ice makers and water dispensers consume storage space. Some fridges have flexible shelving, sliding or flip-up sections, and better compartmentalization.
Pay attention to usable space versus stated capacity, and consider how the fridge's interior is organized. Features like ice makers and water dispensers consume storage space inside the refrigerator. For example, a French-door fridge with an ice maker in the door will have less shelf space than one without an ice maker. If total capacity is a concern, you may opt for a model with a slim ice maker or one located in the freezer section, rather than on the fridge door.
Adjustable shelves, gallon-size door bins, and fold-away shelf sections (for tall items) can significantly enhance the space's usability. Some fridges have flexible shelving, sliding or flip-up sections, and better compartmentalization. You never know when you’ll need to fit a holiday turkey and a giant salad bowl.
See also: Your fridge is a mess—here’s how to organize it: A zone-by-zone system for safer food storage, better visibility, and fewer science projects (plus containers that actually help).
Check if the crisper drawers are large enough and whether they’re humidity-controlled (helps keep produce fresh longer). Consider if you want a deli/meat drawer and how easy it is to access when the fridge is full. When comparing models, look for features that offer flexibility if you often need to Tetris large or awkward items.
While stainless-steel has been the most popular finish for more than a decade now, there are more finish options today than ever before.
Since a refrigerator is the largest, most visible appliance in your kitchen, you’ll want it to look good in your space. While stainless-steel has been the most popular finish for more than a decade now, there are more finish options today than ever before—even avocado green is back, albeit in a much better form.
Still the most popular choice, the clean, metallic look of stainless steel complements most kitchen styles and is timeless. Modern stainless fridges often have smudge-proof or fingerprint-resistant coatings, which is a giant blessing if you have kids. Note that true stainless is not magnetic (most fridge sides are, but the front may not be), while some fingerprint-resistant versions and faux-stainless might allow magnets.
A trendier finish of the past few years, black stainless is a darker, smokier version of stainless steel. It hides fingerprints and smudges well. However, be cautious: Each brand has its own version of black stainless, so the hues can vary if you mix and match your large kitchen appliances across brands. Also, the finish can scratch, revealing silvery stainless steel underneath.
Plain glossy white or black fridges are still available and can be ideal for a retro look or to match other white or black appliances. They typically cost less than stainless models. White can give a clean, bright look, while black can blend well with dark cabinetry. If you’re budget-conscious, you’ll often find the least expensive models in white or basic black.
Some brands (like Samsung’s Bespoke line) offer fridges in a variety of colors or with swappable door panels. You can find everything from vibrant blues and reds to pastel hues if you're looking for an eye-catching fridge. High-end built-in fridges and columns can be panel-ready, allowing you to attach cabinet panels to the front, so the fridge blends in seamlessly with your cabinetry. These options tend to cost (a lot) more, but if design is a priority, the sky’s the limit on finishes (just be prepared to pay a premium).
Don’t feel confined by what “most” refrigerators look like. If you’ve got style, some brands do better with customized design elements like CAFE’s mix and match handles.
Match the fridge finish to your kitchen décor and other appliances. If you prefer to match your personality by going with a bolder color or a matte finish, we’re all for it, just ensure you really love it (and that it won’t make your kitchen feel dated in a few years). One trick for blending a bulky fridge into a kitchen is to choose a counter-depth model in a finish similar to your cabinets or walls, so it doesn’t dominate the visual space.
Don’t overlook the fridge’s handle style. Many modern fridges feature bar handles, but some models have recessed or pocket handles for a sleeker appearance. Recessed handles can also save space and prevent clothes from snagging. However, test them out—it may seem like a small detail, but you want the door to open comfortably, since you’ll be doing it multiple times a day for a decade or more.
Modern refrigerators can come with a dizzying array of features and extras, including water and ice dispensers, LED lighting, temperature flex zones, and smart apps, to name just a few.
Modern refrigerators can come with a dizzying array of features and extras, but you’ll pay for each. Identify which features you truly need or will use regularly.
Remember, every extra feature is another something that can potentially break. High-tech fridges have more parts, pumps, electronic boards, and sensors. It’s up to you to weigh convenience vs. simplicity.
In our experience, make sure any fridge you consider has strong core performance (maintaining 37°F in the refrigerator and 0°F in the freezer, evenly). We have found that models can sometimes struggle to maintain those safe temperatures, and these should be avoided, regardless of how many smart tricks they boast.
The ease of filling up a cup with cold, filtered H2O straight from the front of your fridge often outweighs the potential pitfalls of water and ice dispensers.
Do you want a water and ice dispenser in the fridge door? For many people, this is a non-negotiable. Dispensers are super convenient for quick drinks and on-demand ice. However, they take up space inside (especially ice makers) and introduce another component that can require maintenance (water filter changes, potential repairs).
If you value convenience, ensure the model has good reviews for its dispenser performance. If you prefer a clean look or want maximum fridge space, you may opt for a model without a dispenser or one with an internal water dispenser instead of a front-mounted one.
Another trend we’ve seen among refrigerators is specialty ice, both in the freezer compartment and occasionally in the dispenser. Some new LG refrigerators feature craft ice makers that produce slow-melting, spherical ice, while Samsung makes ice bites.
Higher-end French-door and quad refrigerators often have flex zones, usually a separate drawer or a compartment, that allows you to regulate its temperature separate from the fridge or freezer.
Some higher-end fridges offer flexible temperature drawers or compartments, like a middle drawer on a French-door fridge that can toggle between fridge and freezer temps, or a deli drawer that keeps meats extra cold. These can be great if you have specific needs (like storing lots of deli platters, wine at a slightly warmer chill, or extra freezer space during holidays). If that sounds like overkill for you, you can save money by skipping this feature. But many people love flex drawers once they have them.
Many refrigerator brands, including Bosch, LG, and Samsung, offer apps that sync with their smart refrigerators and allow you to regular temperatures, and more.
Wi-Fi connectivity and touchscreens are increasingly found on fridges. Smart fridges can do things like display the weather, play music, or—believe it or not—let you view the contents via a phone app, provided the fridge has an internal camera.
Brands differ in their approach: Samsung’s Family Hub models, for example, feature a large touchscreen where you can leave digital notes, view your calendar, check who’s at the front door, and more. LG’s ThinQ platform will analyze usage and send maintenance alerts. Bosch focuses on personalization and recipe syncing.
Ask yourself if these features would genuinely improve your daily life (some folks love planning grocery trips with the fridge’s interior camera, others never use these extras). Some consumers fear that smart features can become outdated—and that’s true to a point. The hardware itself ages, but most brands, especially Samsung and LG, provide OTA (over-the-air) updates to keep software up to date. Regardless of hardware and software, the fridge will still cool food.
If you've got a large family or store a lot of food in your fridge at one time, you'll see the benefit of storage extras like flip-up shelves and deli compartments.
Look for things like spill-proof shelves (shelves with raised edges to contain spills), sliding or flip-up shelves for tall items, and plenty of door bins (gallon-size door bins are great for big milk jugs or juice containers).
Some fridges even have small door-in-door compartments that let you access commonly used items (like drinks or condiments) without opening the full door, which can save energy and keep the main compartment colder. Others include a built-in wine rack or a door that transforms into a serving tray. If you store a lot of cans, some fridges have can dispenser racks in the door.
Crisper technology is instrumental in keeping delicate perishables, like fruits and vegetables, fresher for a longer period of time.
Higher-end models tout features to keep food fresh longer, such as ethylene gas filters (to slow fruit/veg spoilage), UV lights, or special crispers. Dual evaporator systems (separate cooling for fridge and freezer) are an excellent feature that does make a difference, keeping humidity optimal in the fridge and preventing freezer air (which can be dry or smelly) from mixing with fridge air. Your produce will last longer, and your ice won’t have a freezer odor. If you can get a dual-evaporator fridge within your price range, it’s often worth it.
A crisper drawer design also matters, especially where some models have adjustable humidity sliders for vegetables versus fruits. Bosch even introduced an ethylene filter in some fridges to absorb this gas that accelerates fruit ripening. If you find you waste a lot of produce, this type of feature might save you money (and trips to the store) in the long run.
Interior LED lighting makes a significant impact on daily use by allowing you to better see what’s in your refrigerator, all the way to the back.
It may sound basic, but good interior lighting makes a significant difference in daily use. Modern fridges use bright, efficient LED lighting, often with multiple LEDs placed throughout the interior (including in the freezer). Poor lighting can leave your lower shelves or back corners in the dark.
Most new fridges do well here, but it’s something to keep in mind when comparing older models to newer ones. We’ve encountered fridges where one dim bulb makes the top shelf bright, while the bottom is a cave. LEDs also don’t generate heat, making them a preferable choice.
Nearly all our top picks feature excellent lighting that showcases everything inside when you open the doors.
See also: Refrigerator design details that matter: A look at which design features make a fridge truly user-friendly—like sturdy shelves, door bins, lighting, and more.
The best way to shop for a new refrigerator is by doing your homework first. A refrigerator is an appliance you’ll use every day for a decade or more, so a few hours of research is well worth the effort. Our recommendations serve as a great starting point, as we’ve done much of the comparison work for you.
Once you have an idea of the type, size, and features you want, start researching specific models to find the one that best suits your needs. Check out Reviewed’s own in-depth reviews, but also visit other expert review sites like Consumer Reports and Good Housekeeping.
For example, temperature consistency is crucial for food safety, but not all refrigerators maintain a steady 37°F in the fridge and 0°F in the freezer, especially budget models or those with poor airflow. Expert reviews can highlight these performance differences.
It’s a good practice to read user reviews on both retailer and manufacturer sites to gain longer-term insights. While individual reviews can be hit or miss, look for patterns: Do several people report a particular model has a noisy compressor? Do door shelves keep cracking for many owners? User feedback can reveal issues that may only become apparent after months of use, which laboratory testing might not capture. However, take user reviews with a grain of salt and weigh them against expert testing and warranties.
Visit a store to see your short-list models in person. Open the doors, feel the drawer action, and check the handle height. This tactile experience can sometimes reveal a preference that you wouldn’t notice in online research.
Brick-and-mortar appliance stores also often have knowledgeable sales staff who can compare specs.
Personal recommendations from friends or family are also valuable. If someone you know has recently bought a fridge and loves (or hates) it, find out why. It might be a factor you hadn’t thought of (like how useful that door chime is when the kids leave the fridge open).
Asking yourself who sells refrigerators? It may seem like a dumb question, but when you’re only paying attention once every 10 years or so, the answer isn’t that obvious. Whether you’re shopping for a refrigerator online or in person, there are several standout retailers that we always recommend.
Across the country, you can’t go wrong with Best Buy, Lowe’s, and The Home Depot. You’re guaranteed to have a location near you, and these big-box stores let you get your hands on the appliance before you purchase. Also, because of their reach, these retailers always offer a wide selection of mainstream brands, including LG, Samsung, Whirlpool, Maytag, and GE.
Best Buy is one of our favorite refrigerator retailers, as they often offer top deals all year round. Here, you can find brands including Samsung, LG, Whirlpool, KitchenAid, GE, Frigidaire, Bosch, and Best Buy’s own excellent budget line, Insignia.
From mini-fridges to French-door models, Lowe’s offers a wide selection of brands, including Whirlpool, Frigidaire, LG, GE, Hisense, Hotpoint, CAFE, Haier, Maytag, Kitchen Aid, Midea, and Zline. It also often has exclusive models from more premium brands.
The Home Depot has a more limited brand selection than Best Buy and Lowe’s, but still carries the major players, including GE, Whirlpool, Frigidaire, LG, Samsung, Maytag, Kitchen Aid, Bosch, and CAFE, plus Zline and Vissani.
If you prefer to shop local, independent, or family-owned, or you’re looking for a more premium brand, you’ve got options, even if you live far from town or a major city. Abt, a 90-year-old independent retailer and AJ Madison, a prominent family-owned retailer, both have local showrooms for their customers (in Chicago and Brooklyn (plus several others) respectively). But each also has a thriving online retail venture, so you can make a purchase there, no matter where you live. Also, brand selection is more far-reaching than the big box stores, and extends into the higher-end market, including favorites like Miele, Bosch, Frigidaire, CAFE, Viking, Smeg, and many others.
We highly recommend visiting Abt’s showroom if you live in the Chicago area, but appliances shoppers across the country can shop online for brands like Whirlpool, Frigidaire, GE, LG, Samsung, Kitchen Aid, and Bosch, as well as premium brand Sub Zero.
AJ Madison has perhaps the widest selection in both style and brand of our recommended appliance retailers, and the most premium options. In addition to the mainstream and popular brands at the big box stores, AJ Madison also offers Fisher & Paykel, Monogram, Dacor, Viking, Miele, Blomberg, Liebherr, Smeg, XO, Thor, and U-Line, which they deliver nationwide.
See also: Best places to buy in-stock appliances right now: A data-driven rundown of top retailers (online and brick-and-mortar) where you’re most likely to find large appliances available and ready to ship.
Is Amazon the best place to get a deal on a large appliance? You may be surprised to learn that our experts do not recommend shopping for large appliances on Amazon. Due to third-party sellers, warranty issues, and delivery complexity, it’s simply not the best choice for refrigerators.
Bosch is a highly reliable refrigerator brand, and one of Reviewed's most trusted.
No one wants their new refrigerator to break down after just a year or two. While it’s hard to predict reliability for sure, some brands have a better overall track record than others.
For instance, data from consumer surveys and repair services indicate brands like LG, Whirlpool, GE, and Bosch tend to perform well, whereas others have had some well-documented issues. However, reliability can vary by model and even by type within a brand (one brand might make great top-freezers but so-so French-door models).
Here at Reviewed, we consider GE and Bosch the most reliable refrigerator brands. Of the hundreds of fridges we’ve ever tested, four in our top 10 have been GE models, and three have been Bosch. Both offer an excellent balance of core performance and special features, without leaning too far toward the flashy stuff.
As a budget brand, Hisense has proven quite reliable since 2020. And at the other end of the market, the Wisconsin-based premium Sub-Zero brand is consistently touted as “worth it” for its high price tag (like $12,000 and higher) across forums like Reddit’s Buy It For Life and among other experts, because its fridges can often last up to 30 years. We don’t test Sub-Zero refrigerators, so we don’t have personal experience with the brand.
Regardless of brand, before you make a decision, it’s wise to find out which brands have authorized repair technicians in your area. A less common brand (or a very new model) may be harder to get serviced quickly if something goes wrong. It’s not a bad idea to call a local appliance repair shop and ask which brands they recommend or which brands they see the fewest issues with. They can give you candid insight. Additionally, inquire about the typical timeframe for obtaining parts for specific brands. Knowing this before you buy can save headaches later.
Most fridges come with a 1-year full warranty, and some offer an extended warranty on the sealed refrigeration system (compressor, evaporator), often up to 5 years. If a particular model offers a longer standard warranty (some LG and Samsung units have 10-year compressor warranties), that’s a good sign the company stands by that component.
You can also consider purchasing an extended warranty or protection plan, especially for higher-end refrigerators with many electronic components. These plans can cover repairs after the manufacturer's warranty ends, but read the fine print to determine what’s included.
So, how long do refrigerators last? The average lifespan of a modern refrigerator is approximately 10 to 14 years. Standard fridges typically last 12 years, according to Department of Energy data. Side-by-side models might be slightly less at 11 years on average, and compact fridges only 8 years. After a decade, you may start to see components wear out (such as a fan motor or a seal).
If your fridge is reaching 15 years or more, you’ve gotten a good life out of it. Keep these numbers in mind when deciding on repairs versus replacement. If a 12-year-old fridge needs major repairs, it may be more cost-effective to invest in a new unit—refrigerators are energy hogs, and older, less-efficient ones even more so.
Many fridges, if they have issues, will manifest them early as a defect that appears in the first year or two. That’s why it’s essential to thoroughly test your new fridge during the return period. Ensure it’s cooling properly and that the ice maker is working. Register your appliance with the manufacturer after purchase to ensure you receive recall notices and service bulletins, and to obtain warranty service.
As a note, our top picks are generally from brands with a solid reputation for reliability, and we do take build quality into account. For example, the Hisense we recommend as our Best Overall had no issues in our tests and comes from a brand that, while relatively new in the U.S., has been proving itself in the appliance market. Bosch and GE are long-standing brands with extensive service networks. Still, any individual unit can have problems, and that’s why we hammer on checking reviews and warranties.
Refrigerator prices vary widely—from a few hundred dollars for a basic top-freezer to several thousand for a feature-packed smart fridge. It’s essential to determine your budget before falling in love with a model that exceeds it. Here are rough price ranges to expect in 2025:
| Price Tier | Price Range | What You Get |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | $500–$1,000 | Basic top-freezers, small bottom-freezers, no-frills cooling, few extra features. |
| Mid-range | $1,000–$2,000 | Larger bottom-freezers, side-by-side models, entry-level French-doors, better storage, some dispensers. |
| Premium | $2,000–$4,000 | High-end French-doors and four-door units, smart features, door-in-door, upgraded finishes. |
| Luxury | $5,000+ | Built-ins, columns, designer brands like Sub-Zero; customizable, premium aesthetics. |
Basic top-freezer units and smaller bottom-freezers. You can find a quality, no-frills top-freezer refrigerator under $1,000. These will keep your food cold, but likely won’t have extras like dispensers or smart features. Perfect for apartments or tight budgets.
See also: Our dedicated best refrigerators under $1,000 guide
This covers many larger bottom-freezer and side-by-side refrigerators, as well as entry-level French-door models. The starting point for French doors is around $1,200. In this range, you’ll get better storage features (spill-proof shelves, etc.) and possibly an ice maker or water dispenser. You can also find counter-depth options at the upper end of this range (often slightly higher cost for shallower depth).
Higher-end French-door and four-door models fall into this category. These often include smart connectivity, touch screens, door-in-door panels (a mini door or drawer for quick access to snacks), multiple climate zones, and upscale finishes. You’ll also see more interior stainless steel and professional designs. For example, large smart fridges with hubs or cameras can easily cost $3,000 or higher. For that price tag, just make sure you’ll use the fancy features you’re paying for.
Built-in refrigerators, paneled column fridges, and brands like Sub-Zero and Thermador are in this bracket. These are usually custom-fitted and can go well over $10,000 for a full fridge/freezer set. They’re beyond the scope of most shoppers but worth it if you’re designing a dream kitchen and demand top-notch aesthetics (and are willing to pay for it).
A refrigerator will run continuously for 10 years or more. A more efficient model might cost a bit more upfront, but it will save on energy bills over time. Energy Star-rated fridges can significantly cut electricity use. (Also, larger fridges and those with features like through-door ice dispensers tend to use more energy, while simpler top-freezers often use less.)
Budget for delivery and installation (and possible haul-away of the old unit). Some retailers include this in the price, while others charge an additional fee; the cost can range from $50 to $200, depending on the specific services.
Finally, consider an extended warranty or protection plan if you’re buying a more expensive fridge; modern fridges have numerous components that could require service (though this is optional).
Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and the month of December might be the best time to replace an old refrigerator or buy new appliances for a kitchen remodel. That’s all because of timing: Retailers know that consumers are likely planning to entertain for the holidays. They’re also in a spending mood, so big discounts on major appliances might entice a customer to pick up a fridge along with those lighted reindeer decorations or a new big-screen TV.
However, during sale season, our experts recommend May, especially Memorial Day, as one of the best times to buy a new refrigerator. That's typically when new models hit the stores—and last year's get discounted. Labor Day and Presidents' Day (two other of the year's major sales events) usually offer deep discounts on select fridges.
See also: When is the best time to buy new appliances?: A savvy guide that pinpoints ideal seasons and retail events for scoring major-appliance bargains.
Once you’ve chosen your fridge, you need to safely transport it into your kitchen. Delivery day can go smoothly, or it can turn into a comedy of errors if you’re not prepared.
Find out whether the retailer—not the brand—offers delivery to your home. Many retailers offer basic delivery, which typically involves drop-off, for free or a small fee. However, installation, which may include tasks such as hooking up the water line for the ice maker and leveling the fridge, often incurs an additional cost.
Some delivery companies won’t bring the fridge or any large appliance inside without prior arrangement if there are stairs. Clarify whether they will remove the fridge’s doors or handles if needed to fit through your home’s doorway—often, the delivery company can, but it’s good to note this in advance. It’s essential to mention when scheduling if you live in a walk-up or have limited access.
Before the delivery crew arrives, make sure the planned path into the house is clear by removing furniture or rugs that could snag. Consider using cardboard or drop cloths on floors if you’re concerned about scratches from hand trucks. Door jamb protectors or simply taping towels around tight door frames can prevent dings.
Most fridge and home damage occurs in the last few feet of the maneuver when the appliance is being moved into place. Don’t be shy about guiding the delivery team through tricky spots.
Before the delivery folks leave, inspect both the refrigerator and your kitchen for dents or scratches. Open and close the doors and drawers to ensure everything aligns properly and nothing was damaged in transit. Also, check your floors, walls, and door frames for any new scratches or gouges.
If you spot something, document it (photos) and report it immediately. It’s much easier to address damage or defects on the spot or within the first day than later on.
A fridge should be levelled once in place so it doesn’t roll and the doors close on their own. Many fridges have adjustable front legs or wheels for leveling. While the installers typically handle this, you may have to, and it’s just good to know.
If you’re having trouble getting your fridge to stay shut, a quick gasket-and-leveling check—with a dollar-bill test and easy adjustments—that stops doors from popping open.
If your model has an ice and water dispenser, you’ll need to connect it to a water line. Ensure your water shut-off valve is accessible and functioning prior to delivery, to avoid delays or issues hooking up the water.
After installation, it may take several hours for the fridge to reach set temperatures and 24 hours or more to produce the first batch of ice, so don’t be alarmed if it isn’t instant.
What will you do with your old refrigerator? If it’s still working and you have the space, you might consider keeping it as a secondary fridge in a garage or basement. Note: If moving it to an unheated garage, ensure it’s garage-ready, as some fridges may not operate well in very cold ambient temperatures.
If you don’t need it, most people will need to dispose of it.
Retailer haul-away: When purchasing a new fridge, ask if the retailer will remove the old unit. Many will offer it for a nominal fee (often $20–$50) or even for free as part of a promotion. This is the easiest route—they’ll cart it off on delivery day and ensure it’s recycled or disposed of properly.
Municipal disposal: If haul-away isn’t an option, check with your local waste management services. Many cities offer bulk pickup for appliances or hold specific drop-off events for old refrigerators. Sometimes utilities run recycling programs and will even give you $30–$50 for turning in an old, inefficient fridge. Note that fridges contain refrigerant that a professional must properly drain before scrapping, so don’t just abandon a fridge. It’s hazardous and often illegal to dispose of improperly.
Selling or donating: If the fridge is in decent shape, you could try selling it used or donating it to a charity or someone in need.
Your best bet is to check out Energy Star and see if the fridge you want is certified and/or recommended. Energy Star is a rating system backed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that provides consumers with unbiased information about the energy efficiency of products they’re purchasing. Since the Energy Star program was introduced in 1992, it has helped to reduce nationwide energy costs by $450 billion and has resulted in 4 billion metric tons of greenhouse gas reductions.
See also: What does an Energy Star rating really mean?: We decode the Energy Star label so you know how products are tested, what the badge guarantees, and how much you can actually save.
Think about all the household appliances that you own. What’s the one that runs constantly? Yep, your refrigerator. In addition to buying an Energy Star-rated fridge, it’s good to practice a few good habits can save energy and extend the life of your fridge.
Refrigerators can get cold, but just how cold should refrigerators be? The ideal settings are around 37°F (3°C) for the fridge and 0°F (−18°C) for the freezer. Colder isn’t necessarily better (you’ll just use more energy or even freeze vegetables). If your fridge has adjustable controls, set them to those targets. Use a simple fridge thermometer to double-check actual temps, as the dial settings aren’t always accurate. Proper temperatures ensure food safety and energy efficiency.
Try to keep your fridge reasonably full of food. Thermal mass helps retain cold when you open the door, but you don’t want to overstuff it so that air can't circulate. You also don’t want to block the vents. Fridges have evaporator fans (often located in the back of the freezer section for single-evaporator models) that circulate cold air throughout. Leave a bit of space at the back of the shelves for air flow. Similarly, leave space around the fridge exterior to help heat escape. If you push a fridge tightly into a cabinet with zero clearance, it can’t expel heat efficiently and will run hotter (and possibly burn out the compressor faster).
Door seals (gaskets) should be clean and form a good seal; cracked or loose gaskets waste energy by allowing cold air to leak. You can test this by closing the door on a dollar bill—if it slides out easily, the seal might need replacing.
Also, try to limit door openings (don’t hold the door open longer than necessary, and teach kids to decide what they want before opening the fridge!). Many new fridges have door alarms for this reason.
Clean the condenser coils, which are typically located at the back or bottom of the refrigerator, at least once or twice a year. Dust buildup on coils causes the compressor to work harder, increasing energy consumption.
Unplug the fridge and use a coil brush or vacuum carefully. Some newer fridges have rear coils that are not easily accessible or are of the “never-clean” style, so check your manual for details. But if you can reach the coils, a quick dusting will do wonders for efficiency and longevity.
See also:
For more tailored recommendations, check out our other expert-tested roundups – you might find exactly what you need in one of these lists
Mark Brezinski works on the Home Team, reviewing refrigerators, minifridges, dishwashers, washing machines, dryers, air conditioners, air purifiers, and fans.
Jonathan Chan currently serves as the Lab Manager at Reviewed. If you clean with it, it's likely that Jon oversees its testing. Since joining the Reviewed in 2012, Jon has helped launch the company's efforts in reviewing laptops, vacuums, and outdoor gear. He thinks he's a pretty big deal. In the pursuit of data, he's plunged his hands into freezing cold water, consented to be literally dragged through the mud, and watched paint dry. Jon demands you have a nice day.
Leigh Harrington has 25 years experience as a writer and editor for myriad print and digital publications.
At Reviewed, Harrington manages Reviewed's overall content, including areas of focus like home improvement, cleaning, gardening, cooking, smart home, organization, and parenting. She focuses on developing and editing consumer ed content, product reviews and buying guides, but she also writes, too.
Harrington is also an experienced travel writer, and has authored books including Fodor's Boston, 100 Things to Do in Boston Before You Die, and Colorful Cities Boston, an adult coloring book. She was a respected, longtime regional editorial director at Where travel guide, and has written for other publications including the US News & World Report, USA Today, Boston Herald, Newport Life, Exhale magazine, Huffington Post, and many more. www.leighharrington.com
Freelance Editor, Kitchen & Appliances. Danielle has a B.S. from Syracuse University and a AAS in Culinary Arts from Newbury College. Previously, Danielle was a Test Cook and Associate Editor at America's Test Kitchen, as well as a freelance recipe developer and food writer. She’s the mom of two boys and loves making pizza on Friday nights.
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