When it comes to home appliances, the refrigerator is one of the most important. It’s where we store our food, keep our drinks cold, and even make ice. With so many different models and features to choose from, it can be difficult to know which refrigerator is right for you.

That’s where Consumer Reports comes in. For over 80 years, Consumer Reports has been providing consumers with unbiased product reviews and ratings. We test hundreds of products each year, including refrigerators, so that you can make informed purchasing decisions.
In this guide, we’ll share everything you need to know about Consumer Reports refrigerators. We’ll cover the different types of refrigerators, the features to look for, and the best models for your needs.
Types of Refrigerators
There are three main types of refrigerators:
- Top-freezer refrigerators: These refrigerators have the freezer compartment located at the top of the unit. They’re typically the most affordable type of refrigerator, and they’re a good choice for small kitchens.
- Bottom-freezer refrigerators: These refrigerators have the freezer compartment located at the bottom of the unit. They’re typically more expensive than top-freezer refrigerators, but they offer more storage space and easier access to the freezer.
- Side-by-side refrigerators: These refrigerators have the refrigerator compartment on one side and the freezer compartment on the other side. They’re typically the most expensive type of refrigerator, but they offer the most storage space and the easiest access to both the refrigerator and freezer compartments.
Features to Look for
When choosing a refrigerator, there are a few key features to look for:
- Capacity: The capacity of a refrigerator is measured in cubic feet. The average refrigerator has a capacity of about 18 cubic feet, but you can find refrigerators with capacities ranging from 10 to 30 cubic feet. The capacity you need will depend on the size of your family and your storage needs.
- Energy efficiency: Refrigerators are one of the most energy-consuming appliances in the home. Look for a refrigerator with a high Energy Star rating to save money on your energy bills.
- Features: Refrigerators come with a variety of features, such as ice makers, water dispensers, and adjustable shelves. Decide which features are important to you and look for a refrigerator that has them.
The Best Consumer Reports Refrigerators
Consumer Reports tests hundreds of refrigerators each year, and we recommend the following models as the best in their respective categories:
- Best Top-Freezer Refrigerator: Frigidaire Gallery FGIH3247VF
- Best Bottom-Freezer Refrigerator: Samsung RF28A5201SR
- Best Side-by-Side Refrigerator: LG LSXS26366S
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When buying a refrigerator, there are a few common mistakes to avoid:
- Buying a refrigerator that’s too small. A refrigerator that’s too small will not have enough space to store all of your food.
- Buying a refrigerator that’s too energy-inefficient. A refrigerator that’s energy-inefficient will cost you more money on your energy bills.
- Buying a refrigerator with features that you don’t need. Refrigerators with a lot of features can be more expensive, and some features may not be worth the extra cost.
Why Consumer Reports Refrigerators Matter
Consumer Reports refrigerators matter because they can help you make informed purchasing decisions. By providing unbiased product reviews and ratings, Consumer Reports can help you find the best refrigerator for your needs and budget.
How Consumer Reports Benefits You
Consumer Reports benefits you in a number of ways:
- Saves you money: By helping you find the best products for your needs, Consumer Reports can save you money on your purchases.
- Protects you from harmful products: Consumer Reports tests products for safety and performance, so you can be confident that the products you buy are safe to use.
- Empowers you to make informed decisions: Consumer Reports provides unbiased product reviews and ratings, so you can make informed decisions about the products you buy.
Conclusion
Consumer Reports refrigerators are a valuable resource for consumers. By providing unbiased product reviews and ratings, Consumer Reports can help you make informed purchasing decisions and find the best refrigerator for your needs.
Additional Resources
Table 1: Average Refrigerator Capacity by Family Size
| Family Size | Average Refrigerator Capacity (cubic feet) |
|---|---|
| 1-2 people | 10-14 |
| 3-4 people | 15-18 |
| 5 or more people | 19 or more |
Table 2: Energy Star Refrigerator Energy Consumption
| Refrigerator Size (cubic feet) | Energy Star Annual Energy Consumption (kWh) |
|---|---|
| 10-14 | 250-350 |
| 15-18 | 350-450 |
| 19 or more | 450 or more |
Table 3: Common Refrigerator Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Ice maker | Produces ice cubes automatically |
| Water dispenser | Dispenses cold water |
| Adjustable shelves | Shelves can be adjusted to different heights |
| Door-in-door | A small door on the front of the refrigerator that allows you to access frequently used items without opening the main door |
| Temperature-controlled drawers | Drawers that can be set to different temperatures to store different types of food |
Table 4: Consumer Reports Refrigerator Ratings
| Refrigerator | Type | Capacity (cubic feet) | Energy Star Rating | Overall Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Frigidaire Gallery FGIH3247VF | Top-freezer | 17.6 | Excellent | 85 |
| Samsung RF28A5201SR | Bottom-freezer | 28 | Excellent | 88 |
| LG LSXS26366S | Side-by-side | 26.3 | Excellent | 91 |
