Fridge freezers are pricey investments that stay with you for the next decade or so. If you’re looking to buy a new unit for your kitchen, make sure to choose one carefully.
Since there is a myriad of options on the market in terms of style, shape, size, features and capabilities—that task is easier said than done. However, it is not impossible. A wealth of options to choose from simply means you will surely find the right unit that matches your household size, kitchen space, and lifestyle.
We’ve made a list of the most reliable fridge freezer units in the market so you won’t have to. Hopefully, by the end of our guide, you will know what you want in a refrigerator.
Best Fridge Freezers
| # | PREVIEW | Product | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
Show other buying options |
|
| 2
Best Overall
2Samsung A+ Metallic Fridge-Freezer
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||
| 3
Best For Higher Budgets
3Zanussi Frost Free Fridge Freezer
|
|
Show other buying options |
|
| 4
Best For Low Budgets
4Fridgemaster Freestanding Fridge Freezer
|
|
Show other buying options |
|
| 5 |
|
Show other buying options |
|
| 6 |
|
Show other buying options |
|
Buy On AO1. HOTPOINT Freestanding Fridge Freezer
- 44dBA noise rating
- A+ energy rating
- 84L freezer capacity
- 150L fridge capacity
Hotpoint’s freestanding refrigerator has a 50/50 split design with the freezer located at the bottom. It is built for average-sized families with limited kitchen space. It also has five adjustable shelves and three freezer storage compartments packed in a 48.5”x21.5”x22.8” frame, giving you plenty of room for storage without taking up too much space in your kitchen. To be exact, you can fit 84L in the freezer and 150L in the fridge.
The unit has an A+ energy rating, which means it can help you reduce energy costs. It can also keep your food chilled for 13 hours if the power is out. As the fridge freezer can’t automatically defrost itself, you will have to do it manually once ice builds up.
Specifications
Pros
- 5 adjustable shelves
- 3 freezer compartments
- Quiet operation
- 50/50 split design
Cons
- Freezer has no controls
- No auto defrost capability
2. Samsung A+ Metallic Fridge-Freezer
- True No Frost design
- 308L storage capacity
- A+ energy rating
- 39 dBA noise rating
Samsung’s freestanding metallic fridge freezer features a tall, narrow design. Unlike many slimline refrigerators, it comes with a non-plumbed exterior water dispenser. It also has a True No Frost design for preventing ice build-ups.
It has a 308L net total capacity—98L for the freezer and 210L for the fridge. It has easy-slide shelves for better access to items at the back of the fridge. It also has Big Guard compartments that fit tall water bottles. Since it only operates at 39 dBA, it is quieter than a normal conversation.
Aside from cutting-edge technologies, it has energy-saving features such as Top LED lights which are brighter than your standard Samsung and more energy efficient. This unit has an A+ energy rating, allowing you to minimise energy consumption in your home.
Specifications
Pros
- Has a water dispenser
- LED lighting
- Fits tall beverage bottles
- Large storage capacity
Cons
- The fridge door isn’t reversible
- No ice dispenser
3. Zanussi Frost Free Fridge Freezer
- 39 dBA noise rating
- CFC and HFC-free design
- Quick freeze function
- A+ energy rating
Zanussi’s built-in fridge freezer has a 70/30 split design, with freezer storage at the bottom. It has reversible door hinges so you can change the way your fridge door opens and prevent it from banging against a wall or an island. Its fridge has 192L of usable space, while its freezer has 61L.
It has electronic temperature controls with a digital LED display, giving you greater control over its cooling functions. It also has auto defrosting technology which prevents ice from building up in your freezer. That means you won’t have to manually defrost it.
Aside from having an A+ energy rating, this fridge freezer is eco-friendly because it is free from CFCs and HFCs.
Specifications
Pros
- Auto defrost design
- Reversible door hinges
- Electronic temperature controls with LED display
- Visual and audible temperature alerts
Cons
- LED lights could be brighter
- More expensive than similar fridge types
4. Fridgemaster Freestanding Fridge Freezer
- 80/20 split design
- Top-freezer design
- 120L capacity
- A+ energy rating
Fridgemaster has a freestanding 80/20 split refrigerator featuring a classic freezer-on-top design. It has a total net capacity of 120L. Measuring only 46.5”x18.9”x20”, it also won’t take up too much space in your kitchen.
The freezer can hold up to 29L of food while the fridge can store up to 91L. Its main compartment has two adjustable shelves and a single drawer where you can keep your fruits and vegetable nice and fresh. It also has three shelves for beverages of all sizes.
To keep it at tip-top shape, you will have to manually defrost the unit, especially once ice starts to build up in the freezer compartment. For an entry-level fridge with decent storage capacity, this model is the one to beat.
Specifications
Pros
- Quiet operation
- Adjustable thermostat
- LED lights
- Has bottle compartments
Cons
- No auto defrost capability
- The fridge door isn’t reversible
5. Amica 70/30 Fridge Freezer
- 70/30 split design
- 71L capacity
- A+ energy rating
- 40 dBA noise rating
Measuring only 33”x18.9”x19.5”, Amica’s freestanding fridge freezer has no trouble fitting most kitchen spaces. It features a 70/30 split design with the freezer mounted on top of the fridge. It also has a 71L storage capacity, which fits the contents of three shopping bags.
As it doesn’t have frost-free technology, ice will build up in the freezer over time. Hence, you will have to manually defrost it every now and then.
It might not have a hefty price tag, but it has limited storage capacity compared to similar-sized units in this price range. On the bright side, its small frame, along with its reversible door, allows you to place it anywhere in your kitchen.
Specifications
Pros
- Reversible doors
- Small, space-saving design
- A+ energy rating
- Quiet operation2
Cons
- No auto defrost capability
- Limited capacity
6. Beko Frost Free Freestanding Fridge Freezer
- 50/50 split design
- Frost-free technology
- 313L storage capacity
- A+ energy rating
Built with a massive 313L storage capacity, Becko’s freestanding fridge freezer can fit 17 bags of groceries, making it suitable for large households. Its main compartment has three shelves while its freezer has four, one of which is a wine rack. It also has three balconies that can fit everything from eggs to beverages of all sizes.
Measuring 75.2”x23.5”x25.6”, it takes up a lot of vertical wall space but it won’t stick out like a sore thumb when placed next to your cabinets.
It features frost-free technology, which means it doesn’t require manual defrosting. Although it lacks water or ice dispenses, it has a few smart functions. It will, for instance, start beeping if you’ve been holding the doors open for too long.
Specifications
Pros
- Audio alert
- Wine compartment
- Auto defrost capability
- Reversible doors
Cons
- No temperature indicator
- Reversible doors are hard to set up by yourself
Fridge Freezer Buying Guide
Types
Investing in a fridge freezer requires thorough research and a lot of patience. As there are several refrigerator types, you will need to carefully select the right unit that fits your lifestyle and your kitchen space. After all, you will be using it for a very long time. Your investment should be worth it.
One of the first things you need to consider is your preferred type of refrigerator. From classic freestanding units to sleek integrated designs, there is no shortage of options as mentioned. The selection might seem dizzying at first, but with the right help, you should have no trouble choosing one out of hundreds of prospects.
Here, we’ll walk you through the different types of fridge freezers so you can make a well-informed decision when you go out to shop for one.
Integrated Fridge Freezer
Also known as a built in fridge freezer, an integrated fridge is growing in popularity especially among high-end kitchens as it adds a seamless, sleek look to any layout.
Since these are installed within your cabinetry, your options are limited to the depth of your cabinet. If you get a built-in unit that goes way beyond the borders of your cabinets, then it defeats the purpose of this type of refrigerator.
Integrated refrigerators aren’t as deep as their standalone alternatives. If you need the extra space, you can make up for it by getting a wider variant.
In terms of price, these built-in units tend to be more costly than freestanding fridge freezers.
Under Counter Fridge Freezer
Another space-saving solution for your limited kitchen area is the under-the-counter fridge freezer. Much like integrated units, they won’t take up much-needed space in the kitchen. As they also have limited storage capacity, they are suitable for small households. There are also built-in upright freezers.
Under counter fridge freezers can have integrated designs, making them fit seamlessly into your cabinetry. They can also have glass or solid doors so you can put them on full display in your kitchen.
If you have a workshop or a home office, you can have an under counter fridge installed so you won’t have to walk all the way to the kitchen to get refreshments.
Freestanding Fridge Freezer
Freestanding units are perhaps the most common type of refrigerator you will find in stores and households, like American fridge freezers. As the name suggests, these refrigerators aren’t built into your kitchen cabinets and counters. That means you won’t need professionals to install them for you.
Although these freestanding units will take up space in your kitchen, they offer greater storage capacity with depths ranging from 30” to 36”. You also have different configurations to choose from.
Most freestanding units have wheels, allowing you to move them effortlessly across the kitchen. You can also easily take them with you if transfer to a new house.
Best of all, freestanding refrigerators cost significantly less expensive compared to integrated units.
Materials
Stainless steel has been a common choice for kitchen appliances because of its sleek finish and durability. However, over the years, manufacturers have come up with other alternatives that can produce the same look for a more affordable price.
Stainless Steel Fridge Freezer
Most refrigerators have a stainless steel finish because it is durable. It doesn’t stain or rust, and it goes well with stone, wood, resin, ceramic, and even glass.
Unfortunately, not all stainless steel units can’t hold magnets. That means you can no longer stick your meal plans, bills, or your kids’ artworks on them.
Black stainless steel refrigerators are easier to clean compared to standard variants. However, most high-end models don’t always just come with black or white variants. You can also get bright coloured stainless steel fridges; however, they are mostly used in retro-themed units.
Faux Stainless Steel Fridge Freezer
Although stainless steel refrigerators are durable, they are quite prone to smudges and fingerprints. If you want to be free from the usual problems of real steel, you might want to get alternatives like Silver Mist.
They look just like stainless steel refrigerators and can be magnetic. They are also fingerprint and smudge-resistant for the most part.
However, these faux stainless steel finishes aren’t as durable as the real deal. They aren’t rust-resistant, and scratches might reveal the pain underneath the coating.
Smart Fridge Freezer
Smart refrigerators may have interior cameras and touchscreen panels that allow you to view the contents of your fridge without opening its doors.
From the display, you can monitor energy use and control your fridge’s temperature or humidity. You can also keep track of your meal plans and your food’s expiration dates. You can even list the items that you will need to get in your next grocery run. Moreover, you can use purchase items online from the display itself.
Like most smart devices, you can view all kinds of media from the display. You can blast music while you’re cooking, pull up recipes, and even stream cooking videos.
One of the advantages of smart fridges is that it notifies you of minor issues that need addressing. That means you can prolong the length of your fridge with proper and timely maintenance and repairs.
If you have a smart home, a cutting-edge refrigerator should fit right in. You can connect it to your smartphone and other gadgets.
Pricing Range
Nowadays, refrigerators can range from a few hundred dollars to thousands of dollars.
If you’re looking for the best budget fridge freezer, you should browse the under-£800 category. Units within this price range have basic internal temperature controls and adjustable shelves. Most brands that make refrigerators within this price range won’t always offer water or ice dispensers. However, there are select brands that offer such features.
Fridge freezers within the £900-£1200 price range have larger storage capacities. They usually have side-by-side designs or French doors with ice or water dispensers.
Cheap fridge freezer options don’t have smart features. If you’re after touchscreen displays, you should browse selections over £1200. These smart refrigerators have cutting-edge technologies that let you connect your appliance to your Wi-Fi, smartphone, and other home devices.
Accessories
It’s common for modern refrigerators, especially high-end units, to have smart features and cutting-edge accessories.
Remember that these additions drive up the costs of the appliance. However, they might be worth it if you like to indulge in such conveniences in your day-to-day life.
Here are some of the most common accessories of premium refrigerators.
Fridge Freezer with Water Dispenser
Water dispensers can either be placed in the fridge’s interior or exterior. For exterior hot water dispensers we have a separate review for that!
Some refrigerators with water dispensers require plumbing installation. This means your fridge must be connected to a water line so it can dispense water at your command. If your water supply needs to be filtered to improve its quality or taste, you can get a fridge freezer with filtration capabilities.
You may also get a fridge with a built-in water container, which you will need to refill yourself. It’s still pretty convenient as it dispenses chilled water at the touch of a button.
Take note that built-in water dispensers drive up the cost of the unit. If you’re less likely to use this feature due to the poor quality of your local water, you might be better off without this accessory.
Fridge Freezer with Ice Dispenser
Gone are the days of filling up ice cube trays. Now, you can get fridge freezers with built-in ice dispensing capabilities that serve ice cubes on demand. With a push of a button, you can get ice to chill your refreshments. Though, there are fridges like wine fridges only meant for keeping your refreshments cool.
Similar to water dispensing units, some of these refrigerators require plumbing, while others have built-in water compartments that you need to refill manually.
If your local water supply doesn’t have the best quality, you can choose a unit with filtration capabilities.
Size
Refrigerators, whether freestanding or integrated, are available in a wide array of sizes.
Standard professional-grade fridge freezers range from 61 to 71 inches in height, 28 to 39 inches in width, and 28 to 34 inches in depth.
Aside from your floor space, one of the things you will need to consider when choosing the right size is the type of fridge freezer.
Large Fridge Freezer
A large capacity fridge freezer can serve as the focal point of your kitchen—that is, if you have enough space to accommodate it. You may also have it integrated into your cabinets to have a sleek, seamless look.
Aside from offering large storage capacities, these refrigerators feature some of the best technologies and accessories such as water and ice dispensers. Some units may even have smart features such as smartphone connectivity and touch-screen displays.
Tall Fridge Freezer
Measuring around 140 to 200 cm in height and 55 to 60 cm in width, a tall fridge freezer lets you maximise your vertical kitchen space. It also gives you a large storage capacity without taking up too much space in your kitchen. Tall fridges come in integrated and freestanding styles.
Mini Fridge Freezer
A mini refrigerator can deliver the same cooling power as a full-sized unit—but in a much smaller package. The small cube-shaped fridge is ideal for dorm rooms, offices, recreational areas, and any room with little space. Some units have a freestanding design, while others allow an integrated setup.
Slim Fridge Freezer
If you have scarce space in your kitchen but you need to store more than a few beverages and snacks, a slim fridge freezer should make a good choice. It is tall and narrow at the same time with countertop-depth sizes. Some units even have reversible hinges, allowing you to change the direction your fridge door swings open.
Double Door Fridge Freezer
A double door refrigerator has a large capacity with 235L to 495L of space, making it ideal for families with four to five members. One door is for frozen delights, while a separate door is for fresh goods. You won’t have to open the main door to get to the freezer.
Unlike single-door units, they have larger shelves that can fit beverage bottles. They are often designed with frost-free technology, which means you won’t have to manually defrost your appliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ice build-up makes your fridge and freezer less efficient. To keep all your foods chilled, you need to defrost your appliance once you see at least a quarter of an inch of ice on the walls.
Here are some of the items you will need:
- Towel
- Sponge
- A bowl of hot water
- A cool box for food storage
Once you’ve stored perishable goods in a cool box, you can turn off the appliance. Open its doors, then place a towel on the floor. Get your bowl of hot water and leave it on the bottommost shelf for a few hours.
Take your sponge and use it to wipe the inside of your fridge freezer once all the ice melts. To prevent ice build-up, keep the door seal in good condition.
Fridge freezers can last up to 14 to 17 years. By keeping your appliances clean and well-maintained, you can minimise costs and repairs over the years and extend their lifespan.
Integrated refrigerators are built into your kitchen units. Unlike freestanding alternatives, they are tucked behind cupboard doors, giving your kitchen a clean, seamless look.
Although they come in different sizes, they are available in three split types: 50/50, 60/40, and 70/30. This refers to the ratio between the fridge and the freezer. If you’re buying integrated refrigerators, you need to pick the split type that matches your fitted cabinets.
There are a few things you need to do before you can store food inside your new fridge freezer. As it is full of fluids for cooling your compartments, you need to let your refrigerator settle for at least an hour, depending on how it was transported.
You can start adding food inside after an hour if your fridge freezer was transported upright. However, if it was transported on its side, you need to let it settle for four hours before placing food inside.
Our Verdict
Buying a fridge freezer is no easy task due to the wealth of options in the market. Given that it’s also one of the largest and most expensive appliances in your kitchen, you will have to take the time to do your research.
As you’ve seen from our guide, modern units are packed with all kinds of cutting-edge technologies and accessories which drive up their costs. However, if their advantages outweigh their costs, these refrigerators might be worth having around for the next 10 years or so.
Only when you’ve weighed your household’s needs, your lifestyle, your kitchen space, and your budget will you be able to pick the best value fridge freezer. Using this as a guide, you should have no problem getting the best bang for your buck.
