When shopping for a refrigerator, the choices can seem endless, with varying prices, finishes, capacities, and styles. One key decision is the location of the freezer. These styles have opposite placements for their freezers:
Understanding the pros and cons of each style can help you make a better, more informed decision for your kitchen. We’ve compiled a detailed comparison to help you choose between a Top Mount and a Bottom Freezer refrigerator.
Top Mount Vs. Bottom Freezer: Appearance
Appearance is a big factor when selecting household appliances. Bottom Freezer refrigerators are currently more popular due to their modern and sleek appearance. These refrigerators offer a contemporary look that blends seamlessly with modern kitchen designs, giving your kitchen an updated feel.
While functional and reliable, top-mount refrigerators have a more traditional and dated look. This style has been around for decades, and while it evokes a keen sense of nostalgia, it may not complement modern kitchen aesthetics. If visual appeal is your top priority, a Bottom Freezer refrigerator may be the better choice.Winner: Bottom FreezersOur Pick: Fisher & Paykel Freestanding Refrigerator Freezer(Model #RF135BLPX6N)
This Fisher & Paykel refrigerator combines elegance with functionality. Its stainless steel finish complements any kitchen decor, and its modern design features help keep food organized and accessible.Key Features:-
13.4 cu. ft. total capacity
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ActiveSmart™ technology to maintain consistent temperatures
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Humidity-controlled crisper bins
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Adjustable glass shelves
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EZKleen stainless steel for easy cleaning
Top Mount Vs. Bottom Freezer: Upfront Cost
When it comes to cost, Top Mount refrigerators generally have the upper hand. They tend to be more affordable than Bottom Freezer models. The lower price point can be attributed to the simpler design and fewer features. Top Mount refrigerators are typically more basic in their functionalities, which makes them a budget-friendly option for those looking to save money.
Bottom Freezer refrigerators often come with additional features, like enhanced storage spaces, temperature control options, and sometimes even Wi-Fi connectivity. These added functionalities contribute to the higher cost. If budget constraints are a significant factor in your decision, a Top Mount refrigerator may be the more economical choice.Winner: Top Mount(Model #GTS18HYNRFS)
This top freezer fridge from GE offers great value with its 17.5 cubic feet capacity and simple, reliable design. It’s an excellent choice for those looking for a cost-effective refrigeration solution.
Key Features:-
LED lighting for better visibility
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Adjustable wire shelves
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Spill-proof freezer floor for easy cleaning
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Equipped with easy-to-use upfront temperature controls
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Energy Star® certified for energy savings
Top Mount Vs. Bottom Freezer: Accessibility & Flexibility
If you access your refrigerator more frequently than your freezer, a Bottom Freezer is ideal. This configuration keeps fresh foods, which are typically used more often, at eye level. This makes seeing and reaching your everyday items easier without bending down.
Bottom Freezers also typically offer more flexible storage options, like adjustable shelves and door bins. This helps you organize your groceries and makes it easier to store and find items. Additionally, Bottom Freezer models often come with multiple freezer compartments and pull-out drawers, providing more storage solutions for frozen food.On the other hand, if you frequently use your freezer for meal prepping or storing bulk items, a Top Mount may be more convenient. With the freezer at eye level, you can easily access your frozen items without bending down.Winner: Bottom FreezersOur Pick: KitchenAid Full Depth Non-Dispense Bottom Mount Refrigerator(Model #KRBL102ESS)
This KitchenAid bottom freezer refrigerator provides excellent accessibility and flexible storage options. The full-depth design and adjustable features make it easy to organize and access your food items.Key Features:-
22 cu. ft. capacity
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ExtendFresh™ Temperature Management System
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FreshChill™ Temperature-Controlled Full-Width Pantry
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Adjustable, spill-resistant glass shelves
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LED lighting for clear visibility
Top Mount Vs. Bottom Freezer: Energy Efficiency
Top Mount refrigerators usually outperform Bottom Freezer refrigerators in terms of energy efficiency. The efficiency difference comes down to the freezer's placement and the compressor's location.
In Top Mount models, the freezer is situated further away from the compressor, which is located at the bottom of the unit. Compressors generate heat, and having the freezer away from this heat source helps maintain optimal freezer temperatures with less effort. This results in lower energy consumption and cost savings on your electricity bill.In contrast, Bottom Freezers are closer to the compressor. This proximity means the refrigerator must work harder to cool the freezer compartment, leading to higher energy usage. If energy efficiency and reducing your carbon footprint are important to you, a Top Mount refrigerator may be the better option.(Model #FFTR1835VS)
This Frigidaire top freezer refrigerator combines energy efficiency, sleek design, and modern features. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to save on energy costs without sacrificing style.Key Features:-
Store-More™ humidity-controlled crisper drawers
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Custom-Flex® Temp Drawer that switches between refrigerator or freezer
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Adjustable glass shelves for flexible storage
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LED lighting for better visibility
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Energy Star® certified for energy savings
Top Mount Vs. Bottom Freezer: Freezer Storage
Freezer storage is essential for those who enjoy meal prepping or need to store large quantities of frozen foods. Bottom Freezer refrigerators generally offer more storage and organization options compared to Top Mount models. The pull-out drawer design of Bottom Freezers makes it easier to see and access stored items without having to reach over or dig through a single shelf.
Bottom Freezers typically have more compartments and adjustable shelving, allowing for better organization of your frozen foods. This design makes it simpler to categorize and find items quickly. Additionally, Bottom Freezers are roomier and can accommodate larger items, such as a turkey or a large roast, making them ideal for those who need ample freezer space.Top Mounts, on the other hand, usually feature a single shelf or a more open cavity, which can make fridge organization more challenging. Items can sometimes get lost in the back. If maximizing freezer storage and maintaining organization are priorities for you, a Bottom Freezer refrigerator may be the preferable choice.Winner: Bottom FreezersOur Pick: Whirlpool 33-Inches Wide Bottom-Freezer Refrigerator(Model #WRB322DMBM)
This Whirlpool bottom freezer refrigerator is designed for maximum storage and convenience. The pull-out freezer drawer and adjustable shelving make it easy to organize and access all your frozen food.Key Features:-
22 cu. ft. capacity
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SpillGuard™ glass shelves to contain spills and simplify cleanup
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Adaptive defrost automatically monitors the freezer environment
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FreshFlow™ Produce Preserver to keep fruits and vegetables fresh longer
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LED interior lighting for clear visibility
Explore Refrigerators at Queen City
Ready to find the perfect refrigerator? At Queen City, we offer a wide range of Top Mount and Bottom Freezer refrigerators from other top brands like Beko, LG, Maytag, Monogram, and Whirlpool.
Contact us or visit one of our ten appliance store locations in North Carolina, to find the perfect refrigerator for your home. Feel free to explore our curated collection of furniture, mattresses, cooking appliances, and laundry appliances from top brands that will upgrade your home environment.Related readings from our blog:Frequently Asked Questions: Top Mount Vs. Bottom Freezer
Are Bottom Freezer refrigerators more expensive than Top Mount models?
Generally, yes. Bottom-freezer refrigerators often have more features and modern designs, which can make them more expensive than Top Mount models.
Which type of refrigerator is more energy-efficient?Top Mount refrigerators are typically more energy-efficient due to the freezer's placement in relation to the compressor.
Do Bottom Freezer refrigerators offer more storage space?Yes, Bottom Freezer refrigerators usually provide more and better-organized storage space compared to Top Mount models.
Which type of refrigerator is better for a small kitchen?A Top Mount refrigerator might be more suitable for smaller kitchens due to its typically narrower width and more compact design.
What should my Frigidaire fridge and freezer be set at?For the best performance, your Frigidaire refrigerator should be set to 37°F, and the freezer should be set to 0°F.
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