Best Fridge Freezers 2024
Find the best fridge freezers with our definitive guide, including four of the best models from brands such as LG and Samsung, among others.
Updated 2 January 2024
Our guides outlines the different types of fridges, their pros and cons, and what to consider when choosing one. In addition, we will include what we believe to be the best fridges you can get by type. Our guide covers:
Types of Fridge Freezers
The most common types of fridge freezers in New Zealand are:
The ideal type of freezer for you will depend on several factors, which we outline in detail below:
- Top Freezer Refrigerator
- Bottom Freezer Refrigerator
- Side-by-Side Refrigerator
- French Door Refrigerator
The ideal type of freezer for you will depend on several factors, which we outline in detail below:
Top Freezer Refrigerator (arguably unpopular, but included for completeness)This is the traditional refrigerator, also known as a top-mount freezer. Its name has to do with the fact that the freezer is located on top of the fridge. In this type of refrigerator, each compartment has a separate door that opens from the side. Since its conventional design has been on the market for many years, it is usually the most economical type of fridge as it rarely has high-tech features.
Top-Freezer Refrigerator, What We Like
Top-Freezer Refrigerator, What We Dislike
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Bottom Freezer RefrigeratorYou can think of these refrigerators, also known as bottom-mount, as the reverse design of top freezers. The fresh food compartment becomes conveniently located at the top and the freezer at the bottom, with access either through a door or a drawer. In general terms, the features of these refrigerators are very similar to those of top-mount freezers, so they tend to be economical and compact.
Bottom Freezer Refrigerator, What We Like
Bottom Freezer Refrigerator, What We Dislike
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Side-by-Side RefrigeratorSide-by-side refrigerators have become the de facto standard in many New Zealand households. The reason is simple to understand, as they have two doors that open from the centre, placing the freezer on one side and the fridge on the other. This arrangement combines the ergonomic advantages of the top-mont and bottom-mount freezers in one unit. In addition, the vertical layout of the compartments allows manufacturers to include special drawers or sub-compartments with independent temperature control. Not to mention that most of these refrigerators come with built-in ice makers and water dispensers.
Side-by-Side Refrigerator, What We Like
Side-by-Side Refrigerator, What We Dislike
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French Door RefrigeratorFrench door refrigerators combine all the advantages of the designs discussed so far. An evolutionary step above side-by-side fridges, these refrigerators provide even better convenience, more advanced features, more usable storage space, and unique styling. All in all, this is the type of refrigerator for Kiwis looking for the best of the best.
French Door Refrigerator, What We Like
French Door Refrigerator, What We Dislike
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Key Factors to Consider When Buying a Fridge Freezer in New Zealand
When choosing which refrigerator is best for your family, consider the following factors.
- Size: Size matters when it comes to refrigerators. Depending on the layout of your kitchen and the space available, one fridge freezer may be more suitable than another.
- Style: Style is often one of the decisive buying factors. Bear in mind that the refrigerator will probably be with you for 10 years. For this reason, it is important that you take the time to choose the finish, colour, and style that best suits your preferences.
- Budget: Obviously, price is always a determining factor. However, our recommendation is to think in the long term. A refrigerator is an investment. Favour well-known brands with a presence and technical support in NZ; this will save you a lot of headaches.
- Family size: If you have a large family, your best alternative is to opt for side-by-side or French door fridges. Conversely, if you have a family of 2 or 3, then you may want to consider top-freezers or bottom-freezers as an option.
- Layout: Before buying a fridge, you should ask yourself what kind of food you store most frequently. If you freeze a lot of food, then you should prefer models with a larger freezer. On the other hand, if you rarely use the freezer, you should prefer models that offer a generous amount of space for fresh food.
- Capacity: Fridge freezers are usually listed by capacity in cubic inches. However, these values can be misleading. Our recommendation is to carefully check the "usable space" available, taking into account internal compartments, trays, drawers, etc.
- Energy consumption: Last but not least is the consumption of electricity. Refrigerators are one of the appliances that have the most influence on the electricity bill. Don't forget this when checking the manufacturer's specifications.
The Best Fridge Freezers Available in New Zealand Right Now
Choosing the best fridge freezer currently available in New Zealand is not an easy task. We have compiled our list (in no particular order) based on sources both in New Zealand and overseas.
1. Best Bottom Freezer: LG 335L Bottom Fridge with Door Cooling in Stainless Finish
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While more expensive than its top-mount cousin, this LG fridge comes equipped with several interesting improvements. For one, its bottom mount design allows you to expand the freezer capacity to 123L, while its high-tech compressor keeps the power consumption almost the same. As for the fridge, the use of LED lights, DoorCooling, and Multi Air Flow keep all your food fresh and at an ideal temperature. However, the feature that has made us include it in this list is its reversible hinged doors, which can be adjusted to swing open to the right or left. This alone makes it one of the most versatile fridges on the market as it can be adjusted to suit any type of kitchen.
LG 335L Bottom Fridge with Door Cooling Key Features
LG 335L Bottom Fridge with Door Cooling Key Features
- Recommended for: Small to medium families
- Dimensions: 595 x 1720 x 677 mm
- Total Capacity: 335L
- Freezer Capacity: 123L
- Energy Consumption: 293kWh/year
- Key Features: DoorCooling, reversible doors, Multi Air Flow
2. Best Side-by-Side Freezer: Samsung 676L Side-by-Side Fridge
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If you are looking for a large capacity fridge, then this is a good alternative. With approximately double the gross capacity of the previous two models, this side-by-side fridge gives you space to store all your food conveniently. The Power Deodoriser is a welcome feature to keep away strong odours, as well as the Metall Cooling technology which helps to keep the temperature stable after opening the doors. In addition, the digital inverter motor improves energy efficiency to minimise the impact on your electricity bill.
Samsung 676L Side-by-Side Fridge Key Features
Samsung 676L Side-by-Side Fridge Key Features
- Recommended for: large families
- Dimensions: 1780 x 716 x 610 mm
- Total Capacity: 676L
- Freezer Capacity: 247L
- Energy Consumption: 557kWh/year
- Key Features: Power Deodoriser, Metal Cooling
3. Best French Door Fridge Freezer: Samsung 637L Family Hub French Door Fridge
More details: Samsung 637L Family Hub French Door Fridge
Pricing: From $8,199
Pricing: From $8,199
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We close our list with an appliance that looks more like a SmartTV than a refrigerator, the fabulous Samsung Family Hub French Door Fridge. Its gigantic integrated screen allows you to perform a myriad of activities from the comfort of your kitchen. Watching TV, answering calls, searching for recipes, controlling other devices, all this and more is possible thanks to the Family Hub. Moreover, its four compartments allow you maximum flexibility for temperature control and food preservation. This coupled with other exclusive features such as the integrated water pitcher and Dual Auto Ice Maker, make it one of the most advanced fridges in New Zealand.
Samsung 676L Side-by-Side Fridge Key Features
Samsung 676L Side-by-Side Fridge Key Features
- Recommended for: large families
- Dimensions: 912 x 1825 x 723 mm
- Total Capacity: 637L
- Freezer Capacity: 247L
- Energy Consumption: 568kWh/year
- Key Features: Autofill Pitcher, Family Hub
Frequently Asked Questions
What size fridge freezer do I need?
The size of fridge freezer you need will depend on the size of your household and how much storage space you need for your food. A good rule of thumb is to allow for about 4-6 cubic feet of fridge space per adult in your household.
What features should I look for in a fridge freezer?
Some features to consider when buying a fridge freezer include the type of cooling system (such as frost-free or manual defrost), the<h3> What features should I look for in a fridge freezer? </h3>(such as French doors or a single door), and the type of ice maker (such as an in-door or stand-alone ice maker).
What is the difference between a top-freezer and a bottom-freezer fridge?
A top-freezer fridge has the freezer compartment located on the top of the fridge, while a bottom-freezer fridge has the freezer compartment located on the bottom. Some people prefer top-freezer fridges because they are more budget-friendly and the freezer is easier to access, while others prefer bottom-freezer fridges because they are more energy-efficient and the fridge is at eye level.
How much will a fridge freezer cost?
Fridge freezers can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on the size, features, and brand. It's a good idea to set a budget and shop around to find the best deal, knowing must-know facts and information as outlined in this guide.
How long should a fridge freezer last?
The average lifespan of a fridge freezer is about 14 years, though some models may last longer with proper maintenance.
Can I negotiate the price of a fridge freezer?
It is generally possible to negotiate the price of a fridge freezer, especially if you are buying from a brick-and-mortar store. It's a good idea to do some research beforehand to get a sense of the average price range for the model you are interested in and to have a firm idea of the price you are willing to pay.
Should I buy an extended warranty for my fridge freezer?
Whether or not to purchase an extended warranty for your fridge freezer is a personal decision that depends on your budget and risk tolerance. Some people prefer the peace of mind that comes with an extended warranty, while others are willing to take the risk in exchange for the extra cost. However, a fridge should last for more than five years, and few extended warranties offered by the likes of Noel Leeming and Harvey Norman etc. go beyond five years, so the cover/use may be limited.
Can I return a fridge freezer if it doesn't fit in my home?
It is generally possible to return a fridge freezer if it doesn't fit in your home, but you will need to check the return policy of the store or retailer you purchased it from. Some stores may offer a return or exchange policy, while others may not. It's essential to measure the space where you plan to put the fridge freezer and make sure it will fit before you make the purchase.
How do I dispose of my old fridge freezer?
When you buy a new fridge freezer, you will need to dispose of your old one. Some appliance stores or retailers may offer a disposal service for an additional fee, or you can check with your local waste management company to see if they offer appliance pickup. You can also try selling or donating your old fridge freezer if it is still in good working condition - our Trade Me selling tips has some ideas.