
When the time comes to replace your old fridge, the choice of new models can be overwhelming, with hundreds of models of different styles, sizes and configurations from dozens of brands. What happened to the days when a fridge was just a fridge, a white box with a little freezer compartment up top? Simpler though it may have been to choose in those days, thankfully we’ve come a long way since then and now have models to suit every family, kitchen and home.
If you know what size and style of fridge you want to get, great, but if you need some pointers, take a minute or two to read Should you buy a top mount, bottom mount, French door or side by side fridge? Your household’s needs change over time, so you might be ready to upsize, downsize or move to a more easily accessible design.
Once you know what style fridge you want, you’ll find that there are numerous models to choose from. To save time comparing and contrasting dozens of fridges, why not let thousands of other people do the research for you? At Appliances Online we sell thousands upon thousands of fridges across Australia. Here are ten of the most popular fridges that customers have been choosing in 2023-2024.
Before we look at the different refrigerators, here’s an overview of the models that topped the list.
Type of fridge: Bottom mount fridges are the most common configuration, with 4 on the list. Top mounts, once the standard design fridge in most homes across Australia, came next with 3 models on the list. The rest of the list is made up of 2 French door models and 1 side by side refrigerator.
Fridge capacity: The capacity of these fridges refers to the total capacity of useable fridge and freezer space combined. In general, freezer space will take up around 25-30% of the total capacity of a fridge freezer. In side by sides, like #6 on this list, the freezer space may take up between 30% and 40% of the total space.
Price: The dollar symbols indicate where each model sits on the price scale in relation to this list, from lower cost ($$$) to higher cost ($$$). Samsung #6 is the highest priced fridge on the list, but it’s also the largest, which goes a long way to explaining its higher cost. If the price of the fridges were to be divided by their capacity to give a ‘price per L’ figure, then the Haier (#9) has the lowest RRP per L of storage space (in addition to having the highest Energy Stars and lowest per L running costs).
Of course, this sum doesn’t factor in other features such as materials, water dispensers and technological inclusions that can account for higher purchase costs, but it can allow for a generally more balanced comparison. Comparing the full purchase price, therefore, is of more use when comparing similarly sized models.
Running costs: At a glance it appears that some of these fridges are much cheaper to run each year than others, but that’s largely to do with capacity. All other things being equal, such as energy efficiency, a small fridge of 200L capacity should be considerably cheaper to run than a model twice its size. However, if the bigger fridge were to be much more energy efficient, the annual running costs may be very similar.
The only 5 Energy Star rated fridge on this list, for example (#9) has almost identical annual running costs to the 3 Star fridge that is half its size. You may pay more to buy a more efficient fridge, but over its lifetime you could find that it recoups you that initial price difference by means of lower electricity bills.
Energy efficiency: Higher Energy Star ratings equate to lower energy consumption and running costs. Fridges are one of the few home appliances that run 24/7, so energy efficiency is a pretty important factor to consider when buying a new one. Haier has the two fridges with the highest energy efficiencies on this list, with its 5 star and 4.5 star models. The most common Energy Star rating is 3.5 stars (4 models). Two models have 4 Energy Stars and two have 3 Stars.
Colour: When are white goods not white goods? When they’re stainless steel. The days of fridges being predominantly white are long gone, with the majority of models (7) on this list having some variation of stainless steel finish (standard, dark or brushed). The other models have a white finish. These days, you can choose fridge in all sorts of colours, particularly if you’re a fan of retro designs in pastel shades, but they are more of a niche choice, so none made this list.
Brands: Samsung, LG, Haier and Fisher & Paykel each have two models in the list, while Westinghouse and Hisense have one entry each.
Warranty: Warranty: Nine of the fridges on the list have a 2-year warranty, and one has a three-year warranty. Some have an additional 10-year warranty on compressor (parts only), or other sealed components.
Let’s look at these 10 popular fridges.
MODEL | ENERGY STARS | AVERAGE ANNUAL ENERGY COST | PRICE RANGE |
---|---|---|---|
#1. LG 243L Top Mount | 3.5 | $76.85 | $$$ |
#2. LG 420L Bottom Mount | 4 | $100.92 | $$$ |
#3. Hisense 205L Top Mount | 3 | $77.72 | $$$ |
#4. Samsung 427L Bottom Mount | 4 | $100.34 | $$$ |
#5. Haier 489L French Door | 4.5 | $97.44 | $$$ |
#6. Samsung 635L Side by Side w ice/water dispenser | 3.5 | $176.90 | $$$ |
#7. Fisher & Paykel 494L ActiveSmart Bottom Mount | 3 | $135.43 | $$$ |
#8. Fisher & Paykel 487L French Door | 3.5 | $119.48 | $$$ |
#9. Haier 416L Bottom Mount | 5 | $79.46 | $$$ |
#10. Westinghouse 211L Top Mount | 3.5 | $79.75 | $$$ |
This 243L model from LG uses Multi Air Flow to strategically circulate cold air and keep food fresher for longer. A handy pull-out tray provides easy access to snacks, while LED lighting provides excellent, energy efficient illumination. The Smart Inverter Compressor ensures efficient cooling with minimal noise, and a door alarm alerts you if left open, which helps to maintain optimal temperature levels.
What customers say: “I'm very happy with my purchase of the new LG 243L fridge. It's such a high quality yet compact fridge and great value for money. It looks small and fits a standard size wall fitting but it can hold heaps.” - Emily
See price and full details of LG 243L Top Mount Frost Free Refrigerator Stainless Steel GT-1S
With innovative features and smart technology, this 420L model from LG has a sleek design and modern finish that seamlessly integrates into any kitchen. The bottom-mount configuration allows easy access to essentials, while the Door Cooling system maintains consistent cooling and the Moist Balance Crisper drawer keeps produce fresher for longer. Available in dark graphite, stainless steel, black steel, matte black and white finishes, there’s also an option with a non-plumbed water dispenser.
What customers say: “Excellent fridge at a good price. Fridge has been really quiet, energy efficient and very spacious with lots of compartments for different things. It has a very sleek and beautiful design as well.” - Andy
See price and full details of LG 420L Bottom Mount Fridge GB-455
Available in white and stainless steel, this 205L model from Hisense combines advanced refrigeration technology with style. The frost free feature eliminates the need for defrosting in the top freezer compartment, maintaining optimal cooling without icy build-ups, while an ice tray makes the ice that you do want. Safety glass shelves offer durability and elegance. The spacious humidity-controlled crisper keeps produce fresh, while LED lighting ensures easy visibility.
What customers say: “I live in a studio so I wanted a small fridge with low noise… this is so perfect! Fits many things, ideal for 1-2 people household and the noise it’s so low.” - Melanie
See price and full details of Hisense 205L Top Mount Frost Free Refrigerator HRTF205
This Samsung model combines elegant design with innovative cooling technology and clever storage solutions, including a triple foldable shelf and adjustable in-door shelving. All-around cooling technology keeps temperatures consistent on every level, while the Digital Inverter compressor ensures durability and energy efficiency.
What customers say: ”I had to buy a relatively compact fridge freezer due to limited space but with a 4 person family I worried it wouldn’t be big enough. Needn’t have worried it’s really spacious. The door is spacious with quite deep shelving which is handy. Good size salad tray too.” - Melly
See price and full details of Samsung 427L Bottom Mount Fridge SRL456LS
With flexible storage, versatile features and a fingerprint-resistant Satina finish, this French door refrigerator is ideal for families. The concealed hinges and recessed handles add elegance while increasing safety. An external LED temperature control panel allows easy adjustments, while the MyZone drawer offers preset temperature settings for optimal storage. The Super Freeze function lets you lock in nutrients in fresh produce by rapidly bringing down the temperature. Haier also has a version of this fridge with a water dispenser.
What customers say: “This fridge is great value for the price. Fits nicely into a small standard size fridge space and means you can see all your fridge food at eye level.” - Sarah
See price and full details of Haier 489L French Door Frost Free Fridge HRF520FS
This spacious side by side model from Samsung is a great option for large families and entertainers, with SpaceMax technology maximising storage space. All-Around Cooling maintains optimal temperatures, while Power Cool and Power Freeze functions quickly chill food.
With a sleek design, including flat doors and recessed handles, as well as plumbed ice and water dispenser, it’s a functional and stylish fridge that gives you plenty of space for both frozen and fresh food. If a plumbed fridge won’t work in your kitchen, a non-plumbed model is also available.
What customers say: “Best fridge we have ever owned, massive internal storage, well appointed storage shelving and drawer space, looks elegant but huge, love every detail and design , excellence in fridge/ freezer standard.”
See price and full details of Samsung 635L Side by Side Fridge Stainless Steel SRS675DLS
This bottom mount model from Fisher & Paykel has a sleek design, quiet operation, and well-lit interior. With 494 litres of space, adjustable shelving, SpillSafe glass shelves, humidity-controlled crispers, and a bottle chill rack, it's incredibly versatile. ActiveSmart Foodcare ensures efficient cooling, while easy-sliding freezer drawers provide convenient access.
If chilled water and ice on demand are important features for you, you’ll be pleased to know this model is also available with plumbed water and ice dispenser.
What customers say: “All in all this is a really good refrigerator. The freezer drawers are so much better than the baskets of the previous model. Everything is so much easier to locate and keep an eye on. The bottle racks are a great addition.” - Jumat
Finished in quality stainless steel with concealed hinges and brushed metal handles, this French door refrigerator has a family-sized capacity and a look that seamlessly integrates into any kitchen. Adjustable shelving and crisper drawers offer flexible storage, and the ActiveSmart™ cooling system adjusts temperature and humidity to keep food at its freshest. This fridge is also available with a plumbed water and ice maker.
What customers say: “We love this fridge, easy to store all the usual items and the French doors are great in the tight space we have this placed.” - Amanda
See prices and full details of Fisher & Paykel 487L French Door Fridge RF522ADX5
With a clean white finish and minimalist design, this bottom freezer refrigerator from Haier makes a stylish addition to any kitchen. The adjustable temperature settings and humidity-controlled vegetable bin keep food fresh for longer, while the Super Freeze feature preserves frozen items effectively. The one-touch digital control panel allows easy adjustments, while its five-star energy rating helps minimise running costs.
What customers say: “This is a great fridge freezer. I love the wider shelves on the door and the quick freeze section. The freezer drawers are just the right size to avoid overcrowding.” - Lynette
See prices and full details of Haier 416L Bottom Mount Frost Free Fridge HRF450
This fridge from Westinghouse may have a smaller capacity, but its flexible storage options allow you to make the most of every cubic litre. Adjustable glass shelving accommodates various food items, while the FlexStor system allows for easy changes to door bin positions. The humidity-controlled crisper keeps produce fresh, and the multi-flow air delivery system ensures even cooling for optimal food storage.
What customers say: “This fridge has really become a statement in our home with its beautiful design. We love how flat the doors are and the handles are really sleek. Inside we’ve found there’s more than enough room to store food, snacks and drinks without a hassle.” - Mishelle
See prices and full details of Westinghouse 211L Top Mount Frost Free Fridge WTB2300WH-X
In addition to fridges, we sell thousands of other products at Appliances Online, including a huge number of washers, dryers, dishwashers and ovens! Save time researching new home appliances by checking out what thousands of other Australians have been choosing.
The first thing most people look for in a new refrigerator is the size: you want a model that can handle your family’s needs and that also fits comfortably into your kitchen. After deciding on the right size, price, features and energy star ratings come into consideration.
We deliver to 95% of Australia's population with Appliances Online's legendary FREE delivery - and we can usually get your new fridge or other home and kitchen appliances to you by the next day (Mon-Fri) as long as it's in stock. Plus, for those times when you just can’t wait, we now offer paid Same Day Delivery in NSW, QLD, and VIC metro areas if you order before 12pm Mon-Fri.
We'll also take your old fridge or freezer away for recycling, for free, which is something most retailers won’t offer you. For more tips on choosing the best fridge for you, read our Fridge Buying Guide, and if you still have questions, call our friendly team 24/7 on 1300 000 500, or message us via the chat icon at the bottom right of your screen.