Refrigerators

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What's behind our refrigerator Ratings?

Experts at our National Testing and Research Center tested 245 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 in dollars, based on the current year's average national electricity rate. Your cost will vary depending on the rate for electricity in your area.
Total usable capacity
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
Our measurement of usable volume.
Freezer usable capacity
Our measurement of usable volume.
Exterior height
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
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
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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Why shop here?

In addition to finding Ratings for the latest models, you can now shop online using an ad-free interface where you can buy refrigerators in a safe-shopping environment.

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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 (97)

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 (28)

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 (41)

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 (55)

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 (19)

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.

Refrigerator drawers (5)

Recommended models are standout choices with high scores. They include CR Best Buys, which offer exceptional value. When narrowing your choices among models, weigh performance, features, price, and attributes that matter to you, such as color, size, or style.

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Refrigerator buying guide

Our latest tests of more than 250 refrigerators revealed an expanding array of options. There are more French-door bottom-freezers than ever and quite a few models with a fourth compartment between the refrigerator and freezer. We're also seeing new finishes and features, including extra-tall water dispensers and models that reach new highs for efficiency. All that variety mean there's definitely a refrigerator out there that's perfect for you. Our buying guide will help you zero on your precise needs and desires.

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