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Fridge reviews

Best fridges to buy in Australia

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CHOICE test expert Chris Barnes shows you how we test and compare fridges

Scientifically tested in our accredited labs

Get facts, not opinions or fake reviews. Each model is tested by experts with over 30 years’ combined experience.

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Fridges to avoid buying

Avoid an expensive and frustrating fridge fail. Here are the models to approach with caution.

Fridges to avoid buying

illustration of two fridges with crosses

We give each fridge a CHOICE score made up of:

Temperature stability (30%)

We assess the amount the temperatures fluctuate as the compressor stops and starts (this is because even temperature is an important factor in maintaining food quality). The higher the score, the more stable the temperature is, so your ice cream won’t melt or refreeze.

Temperature range (25%)

We assess how well the range of the fridge and freezer temperature options suit the needs of most users. The higher the score, the better the temperature management between the fridge and freezer compartments.

Response to outside temperature (20%)

We measure how well the fridge adjusts to changes in the outside room temperature, like the change from winter to summer. The higher the score, the more stable the fridge temperature will be.

Temperature evenness (20%)

We measure how uniform the temperature is throughout each compartment. The higher the score, the more uniform. That means fewer fluctuations throughout compartments.

Default setting (5%)

We test whether the fridge’s default setting (which most people don’t change) is suitable for the Australian climate.

See key features side by side

Save time with our easy comparison tool – compare features, energy efficiency, and brands to find the perfect fit for your kitchen.

CHOICE keeps the marketplace honest. Without them, manufacturers will be able to do whatever they want.
Aaron – CHOICE member

They’re here to make a difference and here to make us safe.
Allison – CHOICE member

CHOICE member Aaron

CHOICE keeps the marketplace honest. Without them, manufacturers will be able to do whatever they want.
James – CHOICE member

Which brands does CHOICE review?

Our experts test fridges from brands including Beko, Bosch, Chiq, Electrolux, Fisher & Paykel, Haier, Hisense, Husky, Ikea, Kelvinator, LG, Miele, Mitsubishi Electric, Panasonic, Samsung, Smeg, TCL, Westinghouse and Whirlpool. We also include test results for discontinued models from Anko, Changhong, Daewoo, Hitachi, Midea, Seiki, Sharp, Smeg, Stirling and more.

How does CHOICE pick models to test?

Our priority is testing the models you’ll see in stores and major online retailers. To do this, we check current market data to see what’s most popular. We’ll also test models that a lot of members have requested.

How are fridges tested in the lab?

We use calibrated platinum resistance thermometers (PRTs) and set lots of them consistently throughout each fridge in a variety of areas. We do this to measure each compartment and shelf so you know where a fridge is warmer and cooler than normal. We replicate these areas according to the Australian Standard AS/NZS 4474.2. Our experts assess key test criteria including temperature range, response to outside temperature change, temperature evenness, noise levels, plus many more.

Who does the testing?

Our expert testers have over 30 years’ combined experience in our thermal laboratory, and some of them sit on both national and international industry standards committees.

How does CHOICE get the products it reviews?

Unlike other product review sites, we don’t accept free test models from manufacturers. This means we’re independent and can review without interference. We buy products anonymously from a variety of retailers, then bring them into our labs. This means we get what you’d get, and can be sure the model hasn’t been potentially ‘tweaked’ for better performance.

How often are new fridges tested?

While fridges are a pretty simple device, their thermal properties take time to measure. We test every few months in batches of up to 10 fridges at a time. We’re always looking for ways to improve testing, so we regularly survey our members to find out what’s important to them and what they look for when buying a fridge.

How do you calculate your ‘keeping food fresh longer’ score?

Not all fridges are created equal when it comes to keeping your food fresh and safe to eat. Our food safety score is made up of three elements: temperature stability (40%), temperature evenness (30%), and response to outside temperature (30%).

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