The 10 Best Refrigerator Brands of 2024, According to Design Experts
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We found reliable, high-quality products for every budget
People / Kristin Kempa
If there’s one must-have appliance for your kitchen, it’s a high-quality refrigerator. The best fridges are spacious, reliable, and energy-efficient, keeping your family’s food fresh for as long as possible. And since they are such large appliances, it's a plus when they look good, too.
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When comparing refrigerator brands, you’ll want to consider product quality and reliability, as well as factors like special features, return options, and warranty period. Also, be wary of the mindset that a higher price means better performance, which isn’t always true with refrigerators.
Whether you're stocking the fridge in your kitchen or keeping a small refrigerator in the garage, with these factors in mind, we researched dozens of the most popular appliance brands, looking for the best in terms of quality, value, and style.
Keep reading to shop PEOPLE’s picks for the best refrigerator brands.
LG
LG
Star Qualities
LG offers the most popular refrigerator styles
High-end models offer advanced features
Considered one of the most reliable brands, based on low repair reports
Red Flags
Customer service experience isn't the best
No matter where you shop for a refrigerator, you’re bound to see a variety of LG models, which are popular among homeowners. The brand offers an impressive selection of fridge models, including French doors (like this popular pick) and side-by-side designs, and you can find basic, no-frills appliances, as well as more high-tech options with advanced features. LG also keeps up with the latest appliance innovations, offering Wi-Fi-connected fridges, fancy ice styles, and features like its InstaView, which allows you to see what’s inside the fridge by knocking on the door.
LG also leads the pack when it comes to reliability. It’s listed in the second spot on Yale Appliance’s rankings of the most reliable appliance brands, requiring fewer repairs than many other manufacturers. The brand backs its product with a one-year parts and labor warranty — fairly standard across the industry — and a five-year warranty on its compressors.
The one major downside to keep in mind when shopping from LG is that their customer service isn’t the best. Many people report that it’s challenging to file warranty claims or schedule repairs through the brand, so you may be better off purchasing a fridge from a third-party seller like The Home Deport or Lowe's that offers its own extended warranty or service options.
Return Window: 15 days | Shipping Cost: Free | Restocking Fee: 8% for undamaged items | Warranty Period: 1 year parts and labor; 5 years compressor | Payment Plans: Klarna
Samsung
Samsung
Star Qualities
Many models have sleek, modern designs
Receives consistently high ratings from reviewers
Has useful smart features like Family Hub
Red Flags
Ice maker problems are common
Samsung is another go-to brand for many homeowners, especially those who want sleek, modern appliances in their kitchen. The brand offers many stainless steel appliances, but it also has its Bespoke line, which allows you to fully customize its glass doors using bright colors or custom artwork. It’s the perfect option if you want your kitchen to stand out and don’t mind spending more for a unique look.
As you might expect from Samsung, which is also a well-known electronics brand, many of its refrigerators are also equipped with smart features. In particular, its Family Hub is a hit among reviewers — it’s essentially a tablet built into the front of the appliance, and it allows you to create a grocery list, share photos, control other smart devices, and even stream music or TV shows. Other features you may want to look for include its beverage center, which has an auto-filled water pitcher, or the brand’s Mega Capacity refrigerators, which offer up to 32 cubic feet of storage space.
The brand has been criticized in the past for its freezers and ice makers leaking water, so when shopping with this brand, be sure to check the reviews for the particular model you're interested in.
Return Window: 15 days | Shipping Cost: Free | Restocking Fee: 10% after 15 days | Warranty Period: 1 year parts and labor; 5 years sealed systems; 10 years compressors | Payment Plans: Samsung Financing
Whirlpool
Whirlpool
Star Qualities
Wide selection in most popular styles
Models with fingerprint-resistant finishes are ideal for families
Most come with adjustable shelves and bins
Red Flags
No smart features
If you prefer a basic refrigerator, Whirlpool is a trusted brand that offers a wide selection of models, including French door, side-by-side, top-freezer, and bottom-freezer options. The manufacturer has a positive reputation for user satisfaction and reliability, but it doesn’t offer any high-tech features, such as smart connectivity. Instead, Whirlpool refrigerators tend to be no-frills, which means they’re available at a lower price point.
While they may not have lots of bells and whistles, Whirlpool appliances are still perfectly functional. Most of its fridges have adjustable shelves and door bins, allowing you to organize food in a way that works for your family, and stainless steel models have a fingerprint-resistant finish, keeping the appliance looking clean, even in busy households.
Whirlpool also offers a 30-day return window on its major appliances, which is longer than other brands, but keep in mind there’s a 15 percent restocking fee for undamaged merchandise (when purchased directly from the brand).
Return Window: 30 days | Shipping Cost: Free on orders over $399 | Restocking Fee: 15% for undamaged items | Warranty Period: 1 year parts; 5 years compressor and sealed refrigeration components | Payment Plans: Affirm
GE Appliances
GE Appliances
Star Qualities
More expensive models offer high-tech features
Offers discounts for several professions
Good reputation for reliability
Red Flags
Customer service can be hit or miss
If you want a fridge with all the latest and greatest features, you should check out the lineup from GE. While the brand does offer a handful of basic top- and bottom-freezer models, most tech lovers will be interested in its GE Profile line, which boasts a large selection of smart refrigerators. Features you can expect from these models include an extra temperature-adjustable drawer, door-in-door designs, and hands-free water dispensing.
In addition to offering many innovative features, GE ranks highly in terms of appliance reliability, though its customer service often leaves something to be desired. However, it does offer a full refund on appliances that are returned within seven days of delivery, and people who work in certain professions, including healthcare, military, education, and first responders, are eligible for discounts if they purchase directly from the brand.
Return Window: 7 days for full refund | Shipping Cost: $99 flat rate | Restocking Fee: 25% after 30 days | Warranty Period: 1 year parts; 5 years sealed refrigeration components | Payment Plans: Affirm
Bosch
Bosch
Star Qualities
Sleek exterior design
Fast-working ice makers
Good reputation for quality
All models are Energy Star-certified
Red Flags
Most models cost over $2,900
Bosch is known for its well-made kitchen appliances, and the brand’s selection of refrigerators is no exception. Several of its models have a French door design with a sleek stainless steel finish, and all the brand’s fridges are Energy Star-certified, so you don’t have to worry about them running up your electricity bill. However, you will have to shop through a third-party dealer such as The Home Depot or Lowe's, as Bosch doesn’t sell directly to consumers.
Most Bosch fridges, including the popular 500 Series French Door model, have smart capabilities, and their QuickIce Pro System can make up to 12 pounds of ice per day. Certain models also have the brand’s FarmFresh System, which helps keep produce fresh for longer by maintaining precise temperature and humidity levels and absorbing the ethylene given off.
While Bosch fridges are attractive and well-designed, they don't come cheap. The brand’s 500 Series appliances start at around $2,900, and prices range upward of $4,800 for high-end models.
Return Window: 10 days for damaged items; 30 days for undamaged | Shipping Cost: Varies by retailer | Restocking Fee: 25% for undamaged items | Warranty Period: 1 year parts; 5 years electronic components | Payment Plans: Varies by retailer
Frigidaire
Frigidaire
Star Qualities
Offers many basic, budget-friendly models
Includes adjustable organization features
Red Flags
Only sells direct to consumers in select areas
For budget-conscious shoppers, Frigidaire is a worthwhile brand to consider. It offers plain top-freezer models starting at around $800, and there are also reasonably priced side-by-side and four-door models that won’t break the bank. These appliances don’t have any smart features or high-tech innovations, but they’re highly usable thanks to adjustable interiors.
The one thing to keep in mind about Frigidaire is that most people will end up having to buy its appliances from a third-party retailer, such as Home Depot or Lowe’s, as the brand only sells directly in select areas. Keep this in mind as you shop, as different stores may have their own policies on returns and restocking.
Return Window: 7 days | Shipping Cost: Free on orders over $399 | Restocking Fee: Not listed | Warranty Period: 1 year parts and labor | Payment Plans: N/A
KitchenAid
The Home Depot
Star Qualities
Sleek, contemporary appearance
Offers built-in models for a custom look
Offers free returns for up to 60 days
Red Flags
No smart features
While best known for its iconic stand mixer, KitchenAid has expanded into larger appliances in the last several years, and its lineup of refrigerators offers versatility, aesthetics, and high-end features. Most of its fridge options are either French door or side-by-side, but the brand also offers a unique five-door design, as well as several built-in models for a more seamless look in your kitchen — for a premium price, of course.
KitchenAid's refrigerators have a sleek, contemporary style. And if you’re looking for convenient features, KitchenAid delivers. Some common design options include a slide-out tray for heavy serving platters, measured water dispensing, and slide-away shelving. However, you might be surprised to find that its appliances aren’t Wi-Fi connected, which could be a dealbreaker if you’re someone who likes to monitor electronics from your smartphone.
One other area where KitchenAid stands out from the crowd is its return period. For non-account holders, you can request a return for up to 30 days for free, and if you do have a KitchenAid account, the return window is extended up to 60 days. You won’t be charged a restocking fee, either, even if the appliance is undamaged.
Return Window: 60 days for account holders | Shipping Cost: Free on orders over $399 | Restocking Fee: N/A | Warranty Period: 1 year parts; 5 years sealed refrigeration system | Payment Plans: Affirm
Sub-Zero
AJ Madison
Star Qualities
Extremely long-lasting appliances
Most designs can be outfitted with custom panels
Offers oversized designs with large capacity
Red Flags
Very expensive
Sub-Zero is a luxury appliance brand, and it gets the seal of approval from designers thanks to its sleek designs and long-lasting reliability. “I always recommend Sub-Zero because they are designed to last an average of 20 years,” says interior designer Hilary Matt.
This brand offers an impressive selection of high-end refrigerators, including freestanding and built-in models, as well as under-counter options and even wine fridges. They also offer oversized designs with a large capacity. Most of its appliances are panel-ready, meaning you can outfit them with custom cabinetry for a more seamless look in your kitchen, and many of its French door models have a 42- or 48-inch width, offering more room to store your favorite foods.
While they may be a designer favorite, Sub-Zero refrigerators definitely aren’t in the budget for everyone. Most of its full-size models are upwards of $8,000, placing it firmly in the "investment" category.
Return Window: Varies by retailer | Shipping Cost: Varies by retailer | Restocking Fee: Varies by retailer | Warranty Period: 2 years for parts and labor; 5 years sealed system | Payment Plans: Varies by retailer
Insignia
Best Buy
Star Qualities
Offers compact, apartment-friendly refrigerators
Most models cost less than $1,000
Red Flags
Best Buy only provides limited details about the return process
You may not be as familiar with the Insignia brand, as you won’t find it while browsing your local home improvement store. This is because the brand is made by — and exclusive to — Best Buy, and it’s a great choice if you’re looking for a compact and inexpensive refrigerator.
Most Insignia fridges retail for less than $1,000, and a lot of them are compact, with a capacity of around 10 cubic feet, making them well-suited for small apartments or even RVs. There are several full-size options available, as well, including a reasonably priced side-by-side model with a stainless steel finish. The designs tend to be very basic with just a few adjustable shelves inside, but they’re well-priced, reliable, and worth considering for smaller spaces.
Return Window: 15 days | Shipping Cost: $99.99 | Restocking Fee: Not listed | Warranty Period: 1 year parts and labor | Payment Plans: Best Buy Credit Card
Café
Café Appliances
Star Qualities
Designed with aesthetics in mind
Custom appliance hardware is available
Some models include high-tech features like hot water dispensers and Keurig K-Cup systems
Red Flags
Only sells direct to consumers in select areas
Prices start at around $2,800
Café is a luxury appliance brand that prioritizes aesthetics, so it’s a top choice if you want your kitchen to stand out. Christina Hall revealed in an Instagram post that she remodeled her kitchen using matte black Café appliances, including a new refrigerator. "The matte black appliances we chose are unique and stunning. They really set the tone for the organic and moody vibe we were going for. Not only are they gorgeous, the quality is unsurpassed," the Christina on the Coast star wrote in her post.
The Café brand is manufactured by GE, and it offers stylish refrigerators in French door, side-by-side, and four-door configurations, as well as built-in models and even under-counter drawer refrigerators. Plus, one of its major selling points is that you can customize the hardware on your appliance, selecting from a variety of metallic finishes to perfectly match your decor.
Of course, it’s only fitting that Café’s high-end designs are outfitted with high-tech features. The majority of its refrigerators have smart capabilities and some French door models even have hot water dispensers or built-in Keurig systems. Just be warned that this brand only sells directly to consumers in certain markets, and it isn’t cheap — its most affordable models start at around $2,800, but the majority are upward of $4,000.
Return Window: 7 days for free | Shipping Cost: $99 flat rate | Restocking Fee: 25% after 7 days | Warranty Period: 1 year parts; 5 years sealed refrigeration components | Payment Plans: Affirm
What to Know About Refrigerators
Materials
When it comes to an appliance like a refrigerator, which gets opened and shut many times per day, high-quality materials are a must-have for longevity. “When comparing different brands, the quality of the unit can often be gauged by the quality of the materials used: Is the exterior stainless steel? Is the interior stainless steel? Are the interior shelves made of glass or plastic?” says Matthew Frederick, principal at M. Frederick Design.
If possible, try to visit an in-person retailer to assess the quality of a specific refrigerator brand for yourself. It can be hard to gauge quality from online descriptions, and being able to actually open the doors, slide out the drawers, and press the buttons can help you determine if a model is right for you.
Style
Before deciding on a refrigerator brand, you may want to consider what style of refrigerator you’re interested in. The most common refrigerator styles are French doors, side-by-side, freezer on the top, freezer on the bottom, and built-in. There are also refrigerator models with four doors or a third drawer in the middle. Think about how you use your refrigerator and what will fit best in your space when considering different styles and brands.
Price
Your budget will play a large role in determining which refrigerator brand is the best option for your home. Refrigerator brands such as Whirlpool and Frigidaire make more affordable appliances with fewer features, and if you’re looking for a model under $1,000, Insignia is a great choice. If you have a little more to spend LG, GE, and Bosch fall into a mid-tier price point and have more high-tech features.
There are also luxury refrigerator brands that are worth splurging on, such as Café, which offers highly customizable and modern designs, and Sub-Zero, which is known for its long-lasting technology.
Features
As you shop for a fridge, you’ll need to decide whether you want a basic, no-frills model or something with the latest technology. Many brands have started to make smart refrigerators, which can be monitored from your smartphone, and more advanced models even have built-in digital displays, see-through doors, and fancy water dispensers.
These features offer more versatility in your kitchen but keep in mind that they’ll increase the price of the appliance. Plus, the more features a refrigerator has, the more complicated it will be to repair if something breaks.
Customer Service and Warranty
If anything should go wrong with your new appliance, you’ll be glad that you chose a brand with good customer service and a solid warranty period. “It is very important to understand how the company will support the consumer if there is a service issue,” says Frederick. “Companies that make a great product usually have great support.”
When it comes to refrigerator warranties, they’re usually broken down into several different periods. Most brands offer a one-year warranty on parts and labor, as well as a five (or longer) year warranty on the sealed refrigeration system, which includes the compressor. However, many of these warranties are limited, which means the brand may refuse to replace or repair your appliance if certain conditions aren’t met.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which style of refrigerator is popular?
There are a few refrigerator configurations that have become increasingly popular in the last few years. “Refrigerators with a third drawer in the middle and the freezer on the bottom are really popular right now, and I can see why,” says Rebuck. “I’m a fan of having the dedicated space to keep meat and dairy products fresh in their own dedicated space separate from other food.” Another style that’s gaining popularity is a four-door model, which Frigidaire offers, that has two sets of French doors — one for the fridge compartment and one for the freezer.
Which refrigerator lasts the longest?
If you don’t want to buy another refrigerator for many, many years, it might be worth investing in a Sub-Zero model. While these appliances are extremely expensive, they’re specially designed to last up to 20 years and have a much longer and more comprehensive warranty than many other brands. “Investing in a Sub-Zero appliance is worth every penny being that they increase the value of the home and will stand the test of time,” explains Matt.
However, these high-end models aren’t feasible for everyone. LG and GE both make reliable refrigerators that will last for several years — just keep in mind that the more bells and whistles they have, the greater the chance of something breaking.
What is an Energy Star-certified refrigerator?
An Energy Star-certified refrigerator has been tested and certified by an EPA-recognized laboratory and certification body agency for products sold in the US and Canada. Energy Star-certified refrigerators are certified to be nine percent more energy efficient than non-certified models. Energy Star-certified products save consumers energy and cost in electricity.
Take Our Word For It
Camryn Rabideau is a freelance writer and product tester who specializes in home products. To put together this list, she used her own experiences with different appliance brands and refrigerators, and she did thorough research on each brand, looking into their product selection, features, price range, customer service, warranties, and overall reputation. While researching this article, we also spoke with several experts — including Natalie Rebuck of Re: Design Architects and interior designers Hilary Matt and Matthew Frederick — for tips on selecting the best refrigerator brand for your home.
Our Expert Panel
Natalie Rebuck is the principal designer for Re: Design Architects.
Hilary Matt is an interior designer, founder, and principal at Hilary Matt Interiors.
Matthew Frederick is the principal designer at M. Frederick Design.
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