Refrigerators

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What's behind our refrigerator Ratings?

Experts at our National Testing and Research Center tested 227 models in refrigerators to see which ones perform best.

We look for:

Overall score
This gives the most weight to energy efficiency and temperature performance, then to noise and ease of use. The displayed score is out of a total of 100 points.
Temperature performance
This combines results of tests measuring the accuracy of initial temperature settings along with how well a model 1) kept optimum temperatures in the refrigerator and freezer at the same time; 2) kept temperatures even throughout each compartment; 3) kept temperatures constant despite changes in room temperatures; and 4) maintained set temperatures even with very high room temperatures.
Energy efficiency
This reflects electricity consumption (based on our tests) per cubic foot of measured usable storage space. For example, two models with the same energy cost per year may have different energy efficiencies -- the unit with more storage space being more efficient.
Noise
Noise level was measured when the compressor started up and during steady running. Subjective judgments by a panel of listeners supplemented our noise-meter readings.
Ease of use
This assesses features and design including layout, controls, and lighting.
Energy cost/yr. ($)
Estimated cost per year in dollars, calculated for 8 hours a day turned on and 16 hours in the computer-commanded standby mode, based on the current year's national average electricity rate. Your usage and local rates will affect your costs. Note that the energy costs are for a monitor optimized for the best picture quality and equal brightness -- the energy consumption would be less with dimmer picture settings.
Total usable capacity (cu. ft.)
Usable capacity is the volume, in cubic feet, of usable interior space, based on our measurements. We included ice-makers in the storage measurements for top-freezer and bottom-freezer models, but not for side-by-sides.
Fridge usable capacity (cu. ft.)
Our measurement of usable volume.
Freezer usable capacity (cu. ft.)
Our measurement of usable volume.
Exterior height (in.)
Our measurement, including the top hinge and rounded up to the nearest inch. (We measured only tested models, but the similar models we list should have the same dimensions.) Built-in models have the compressor on top, making them about a foot taller than regular refrigerators. They fit flush with cabinets and counters.
Exterior width (in.)
Our measurement, including all protrusions and rounded up to the nearest inch. (We measured only tested models, but the similar models we list should have the same dimensions.)
Exterior depth (in.)
Our measurement, rounded up to the nearest inch. We include tubing or other protrusions in the back but exclude the handle. (We measured only tested models, but the similar models we list should have the same dimensions.)

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Recommended refrigerators

Recommended refrigerators are standout choices with high scores. They include CR Best Buys, which offer exceptional value. When narrowing your choices, weigh features, price, and attributes that matter to you.

Recommended refrigerators

Refrigerator buying guide

To find the refrigerator that is right for you, read our expert advice on which features to consider and how to find the best value.

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When choosing a refrigerator, consider your space, the unit's capacity, and your budget. Stylish variations on top-freezer, bottom-freezer and side-by-side refrigerators are in the stores, including some refrigerators with French doors as well as refrigerator drawers. Because refrigerators are on 24-7, make sure the one you buy is energy efficient. If you're looking for information about refrigerator, Consumer Reports is your best resource. Consumer Reports’ refrigerator reviews will give you honest buying advice that you can trust. Use our refrigerator buying guide to discover which features are most important to consider. We also provide unbiased Ratings and refrigerator reviews to help you choose the best refrigerator for your needs.

Ratings & recommended refrigerators

Bottom-freezer refrigerators (94)

Bottom-freezers keep refrigerator items within easy reach. Most models we tested chill and freeze adequately and include pullout shelves or bins, split shelves, spill guards, and room on the door to hold a gallon of milk. Top-scoring models typically deliver more consistent temperatures. Once you know how much space you have, particularly the width, our Recommended models will help you find models that fit in that space. Models that have higher energy-efficiency scores use less electricity for their capacity. And if your household isn't large, remember that a smaller refrigerator is likely to use less electricity overall than a larger model.

The Ratings rank models by overall performance.

Built-in refrigerators (21)

Built-ins align with cabinets. Most models we tested chill and freeze adequately and include pullout shelves or bins, spill guards, and room on the door to hold a gallon of milk. Top-scoring models typically deliver more consistent temperatures. Once you know how much space you have, particularly the width, our Recommended models will help you find models that fit in that space. Models that have higher energy efficiency scores use less electricity for their capacity. And if your household isn't large, remember that a smaller refrigerator is likely to use less electricity overall than a larger model.

The Ratings rank models by overall performance.

Top freezer refrigerators (31)

Top-freezers offer the most storage for their size and are the least expensive. Most models we tested chill and freeze adequately and include pullout shelves or bins, split shelves, spill guards, and room on the door to hold a gallon of milk. Top-scoring models typically deliver more consistent temperatures. Once you know how much space you have, particularly the width, our Recommended models will help you find models that fit in that space. Models that have higher energy efficiency scores use less electricity for their capacity. And if your household isn't large, remember that a smaller refrigerator is likely to use less electricity overall than a larger model.

The Ratings rank models by overall performance.

Side-by-side refrigerators (61)

Side-by-sides are ideal for narrow kitchens but are the least space-efficient inside. Most models we tested chill and freeze adequately and include pullout shelves or bins, spill guards, and room on the door to hold a gallon of milk. Higher-end models offer half shelves. Top-scoring models typically deliver more consistent temperatures. Once you know how much space you have, particularly the width, our Recommended models will help you find models that fit in that space. Models that have higher energy efficiency scores use less electricity for their capacity. And if your household isn't large, remember that a smaller refrigerator is likely to use less electricity overall than a larger model.

The Ratings rank models by overall performance.

Compact refrigerators (15)

Several of the compact refrigerators did well at maintaining optimal temperatures in the fridge compartment. But as the scores show, most are poor choices for freezing. And even the most efficient of these small fridges use nearly as much energy as full-sized models. The Ratings rank models by overall performance within sizes. Our Quick Picks highlight models that blend relatively good performance and value.

Recently reviewed refrigerators

Sub-Zero 736TC[SS] (Tested)

This 37-inch-wide Sub-Zero built-in bottom-freezer has digital touchpad controls with temperature display, pullout shelves/bins in the freezer, and an icemaker. The model is available in stainless steel. It is not Energy Star qualified.

Sub-Zero 736TC[SS]

Thermador KBUDT4265E[S]

GE GSH22JGC[WW]

Electrolux EW23CS65G[W]

Refrigerator buying guide

Bottom-freezer models, which put the most-used refrigerator items at eye level, is the fastest growing category overall. Nearly all brands now offer French-door versions with side-by-side refrigerator doors above the freezer, along with four-door models that add an extra drawer between the double-door fridge and single-drawer freezer. You'll also find more models with slide-out glass shelves, temperature-controlled compartments, and stainless-steel exteriors for less than $1,000. This refrigerator guide will help you choose one that works ... Read more

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