The 8 Most Dependable Refrigerator Brands, According to Consumer Reports

Shopping for appliances can be overwhelming. With so many brands and features to pick from, making a decision seems impossible at times.

To help narrow your options, check out the top-rated refrigerator brands according to Consumer Reports.

One of the following brands might offer a refrigerator that gives you the features you need at a price that helps keep your financial fitness intact.

Consumer Reports gives high marks for LG fridges. In fact, this brand dominates the rankings, with many models getting high scores.

Temperature consistency and thermostat controls earn excellent scores across the board. Many models offer convenient features such as ice makers, internal water filters, and digital controls.

Amana earns high marks for reliability, thermostat control, and temperature consistency.

Although Amana refrigerators don’t always pack a punch with extra features, many of their products are wallet-friendly compared to other brands with similar styles and sizes. This might be a good brand to consider if you are on a budget.

Consumer Reports says GE gets top marks for reliability in the side-by-side refrigerator category.

Its French-door models get high marks for temperature consistency and thermostat controls.

Noise levels and energy-efficiency ratings are respectable, according to Consumer Reports. Price falls in the middle of the brands tested.

Samsung earns high marks for several of its refrigerators. Even the more basic models come with features like spill-proof shelves, ice makers and gallon storage.

Beyond that, several styles come with additional bells and whistles, such as dual evaporators or special freezer compartments that can be used as an additional fridge space with the touch of a button.

Ikea may not be your first thought for a reliable refrigerator. However, multiple models show up on the Consumer Reports lists of top refrigerators.

The Ikea brand isn’t heavy on features, which may frustrate customers looking for bells and whistles in their appliances. But what they lack in features they make up for in their lower prices.

Maytag is known more for washers and dryers than refrigerators. But, don’t count out the brand when it comes to refrigerators.

Consumer Reports rated just one model of Maytag fridge, but it got very high scores for temperature consistency and energy efficiency. This brand is light on embellishment, with a few basic features such as a freezer light and gallon-storage capabilities.

The Maytag fridge also is reasonably priced and might be a good option for those who don’t need a lot of extras.

Haier is a lesser-known brand, but several years back it purchased General Electric’s appliance business. Haier models score well in the thermostat and temperature consistency areas, but the units are pretty bare bones.

Some models have optional ice makers. If you’re looking for fancy models with all the extras, this isn’t the brand for you. However, give a Haier fridge some consideration if you are looking for a basic, solid refrigerator that doesn’t cost much.

Whirlpool is another brand known for other types of appliances that also sells refrigerators. Its fridges show up multiple times on the Consumer Reports list.

These models have top-tier ratings for temperature uniformity. Whirlpool units also offer a few more features than basic models, including things such as half-shelves, spill-proof shelving, and gallon storage in the door.

Pricing is the middle of the road.

Refrigerators come in all shapes and sizes. If you want extra features, you might have to pay a little more for them.

However, buying a fridge from one of the brands on this list can help boost the odds of getting a good unit that will last for years. And the longer your refrigerator lasts, the more if it will help you to get ahead financially.