Build-quality problems plague the Insignia NS-RTM18WH7 (starting at $540), a top-freezer model that might have otherwise sufficed for small kitchens. The top-freezer Frigidaire FGTR1845QP (starting at $719) landed on our "think twice" list because it suffers from complaints about water leaks and frost, despite a frost-free billing. Our pick for overall best value among top-freezer refrigerators is the spacious and efficient LG LTCS20220W (starting at $810), followed by the GE GTS18GTHWW (starting at $539), a reliable model for consumers who just want the basics. Generally speaking, among conventionally sized refrigerators (if you need or want a more compact refrigerator, see below), top-freezer models are the least expensive, starting at about $500 for a model from one of the top brands. It’s not a true built-in, of course, but high-end built-in refrigerators can command up to $10,000. That said, if you can stretch your budget a little bit, we do name a French door model that’s very much worth considering, especially if you are in the market for a unit that’s counter depth. Other options include French door and counter-depth refrigerators, but those start at about $1,000 and climb quickly from there. With so many models in contention, we homed in on several good buys in each of three styles: top-freezer, bottom-freezer, and side-by-side, focusing primarily on the best offerings from the top brands among refrigerator makers. Types of Refrigerators and Best-Rated Refrigerators Samsung and Kenmore followed at 82 percent and 81 percent, respectively. In a recent Consumer Reports survey of brand reliability, LG also took top marks, with 84 percent owner satisfaction. Samsung and LG both sit atop the rankings for side-by-sides, but those models are typically priced beyond our $1,000 ceiling. Power found that LG gets the nod on overall customer satisfaction for top-freezer refrigerators and GE comes in second. Maytag, GE, LG, Amana, Whirlpool, Frigidaire, and Kenmore are all top brands that are well represented in the cheap-fridge market. But those who can do without a lot of extras will find that the best refrigerators under $1,000 garner high marks from owners for temperature regulation, available storage, and value for the dollar. Some inexpensive models may even force buyers to forgo a stainless steel finish or an ice maker. For the most part, forget about smart refrigerator functions, LCD displays, freezer drawers, and adjustable-temperature compartments. Cheap refrigerators are fairly basic appliances.
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