Best for those with narrower spaces. These types cost the least, are relatively cheap to run, and offer the most storage space for their size. Widths typically range from 30 to 33 inches.

But you must bend for frequently used items in the refrigerator. Few of these offer water dispensers. Wide-swinging doors require clearance.

Price $400 to $1,200.

Best for putting often-used items at eye level. They're relatively inexpensive to run. Many offer lots of space, and more models offer a French-door configuration. Widths typically range from 30 to 36 inches.

But you must bend or squat for items at the back or bottom of the freezer. Few models offer an exterior water dispenser.

Price $700 to $1,500; higher for French-door models.

Best for a kitchen that can't fit wide-swinging refrigerator doors. Most side-by-sides offer exterior ice and water dispensers. Widths typically range from 32 to 36 inches.

But they're relatively pricey to buy and run and aren't very space-efficient inside. They've been more repair-prone than top- and bottom-freezers. Doors are often too narrow to accept full-size pizza boxes.

Price $800 to $2,000.

Best for a unified look. Cabinet-depth refrigerators mimic flush built-ins and are often side-by-side models; built-in models are often bottom-freezers. Most are 36 inches wide or wider.

But both are pricey to buy and run and aren't space-efficient. Built-ins have had relatively high repair rates and often require extra panels.