If there’s anything top freezer refrigerators have proven, it’s that simple design can be a true success when done correctly. Originally nicknamed the freezer-over-refrigerator style, top mount fridges have stood the test of time to become a classic choice for some with familiar user features that are easy and efficient to operate. But, given the evolution of refrigerator styles over the years, how does even the best top freezer refrigerator hold up to the competition? In this article, we’ll give you a crash course on the original refrigerator style, along with the benefits they provide modern shoppers, as well as our list of expertly chosen options.
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Shop Refrigerators Near MeThe Fundamentals of Top Freezer Refrigerators
It’s the quintessential refrigerator model we all grew up with, and thanks to a simple yet effective design, the top freezer refrigerator continues to have a strong presence in kitchens. Buyers also have that straightforward design to thank when it comes to selection, as these models are among the most abundant on the market with sizes ranging from 24 inches in width up to 33 inches. Together, these winning qualities make top freezer fridges an affordable and practical choice that is sure to meet the basic needs of any buyer.
Altogether, top mount refrigerators offer the convenience of flexible price points, starting around $600 with higher-end models valued at $1,200 and up. One of the biggest amenities top freezer refrigerators provide is capacity; generally, this style of refrigeration offers the most usable space with a configuration that is easy to navigate and operate. Additionally, you can expect to find a large selection of energy efficient top freezer refrigerators since the compressor is located behind the unit, making it easier for the refrigerator to cool the entire appliance.
That’s not to say the prototype is without flaws. Though there isn’t much to point out, the few tradeoffs include limited features and the need to bend when using the fridge compartment. However, many ADA compliant top freezer refrigerators help reduce this pain point and are especially useful for users who rely on easy access to fresh food items.
Our Top Freezer Refrigerator Picks
If our top freezer refrigerator reviews taught us anything, it’s not to underestimate the convenience of this fridge design. While simple, the no-frills concept is easy to use for everyone and makes stocking up on essentials no fuss. In this list, we’ve brought together the best top freezer refrigerators from every category to fulfill the needs for every type of shopper. Take a look!
- Best Overall: GE® 16.63 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Top Freezer Refrigerator (GTS17GSNRSS)
- Best Budget: Whirlpool® 14.3 Cu. Ft. Top Freezer Refrigerator-White (WRT314TFDW)
- Best Luxury: Maytag® 21.24 Cu. Ft. Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel Top Freezer Refrigerator (MRT711SMFZ)
- Best with Ice Maker: GE® 21.9 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Top Freezer Refrigerator (GIE22JSNRSS)
- Best Counter Depth: Whirlpool® 11.6 Cu. Ft. Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel Counter Depth Top Freezer Refrigerator (WRT112CZJZ)
- Best with Water Dispenser: LG 23.8 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Top Freezer Refrigerator (LTWS24223S)
- Best Whirlpool: Whirlpool® 20.5 Cu. Ft. Top Freezer Refrigerator-Monochromatic Stainless Steel (WRT311FZDM)
- Best GE: GE® 17.5 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Top Freezer Refrigerator (GTS18HSNRSS)
Best Overall: GE® 16.63 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Top Freezer Refrigerator
A polished stainless steel finish gives this GE top freezer refrigerator an updated look on a classic design for seamless integration into modern kitchens. An equally attractive appearance happens inside with edge-to-edge glass shelves and LED lighting that make organizing and finding foods easy. The addition of an adjustable deli drawer, two crispers, and gallon door bins provide all the essentials to make this an overall winner.
Best Budget: Whirlpool® 14.3 Cu. Ft. Top Freezer Refrigerator-White
Shop the Whirlpool #WRT314TFDW
Priced under $700, this Whirlpool top freezer refrigerator is thrifty on the wallet, but rich when it comes to reviews, rendering a 4.6 star rating overall. Sitting at 28 inches in width, this option makes a fantastic apartment refrigerator and easily satisfies the food storage needs for a household of up to three. There’s plenty of room for organization on three shelves and inside two produce crisper drawers, plus in-door storage with 14 cubic feet of space overall.
Best Luxury: Maytag® 21.24 Cu. Ft. Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel Top Freezer Refrigerator
The Maytag EvenAir cooling tower that evenly circulates cold air throughout the fridge and the PowerCold feature that rapidly lowers the temperature after frequent use are two standout reasons this is our luxury pick. On top of these two exclusives, a 21 cubic-foot capacity provides more room to fill the fridge of favorites, and doing so is easy thanks a combination of shelves, produce drawers, and adjustable door bins. Best of all, a 10-year parts warranty ensures this kitchen appliance works at optimum performance year after year.
Best with Ice Maker: GE® 21.9 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Top Freezer Refrigerator
Keep the party going with this best top freezer with ice maker capable of churning out up to 100 ice cubes in a day. This model is designed for optimum organization with 21.9 cubic feet of capacity and multiple adjustable shelves, drawers, and bins, all illuminated by LED lighting for easy finding. A classic, stainless-steel finish gives this pick a touch of sophistication, while Energy Star rating provides smart performance, making this pick a solid option inside and out.
Best Counter Depth: Whirlpool® 11.6 Cu. Ft. Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel Counter Depth Top Freezer Refrigerator
Shop the Whirlpool #WRT112CZJZ
Tight kitchen spaces will benefit from the space-saving design of this 24-inch counter depth top freezer refrigerator from Whirlpool. Though modestly sized, a configuration of shelves and drawers on this compact top freezer refrigerator provides convenient organizing to fit your favorites. Additional upgrades include adaptive defrost and reversible doors for easy usability no matter the kind of space.
Best with Water Dispenser: LG 23.8 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Top Freezer Refrigerator
Everything about this top freezer refrigerator with water dispenser was made to showcase a sleek presentation, from the handless design and hidden hinges, to internal water dispensing conveniently located on the refrigerator wall. What’s clear to see is the ample storage this refrigerator provides, complete with a full-width pantry drawer complemented by a series of shelves and bins. The addition of an automatic ice maker, brilliant LED lighting, and ENERGYSTAR® certified power rating are the perfect finishing touch to this top-performing fridge from LG.
Best Whirlpool: Whirlpool® 20.5 Cu. Ft. Top Freezer Refrigerator-Monochromatic Stainless Steel
Shop the Whirlpool #WRT311FZDM
Generously sized to fit all your favorite foods, this best Whirlpool top freezer refrigerator is a practical addition in kitchens with full-size storage needs. An abundance of flexible organization, including a Flexi-Slide Bin with moves from one zone to another, providing extra clearance for tall items. It’s the perfect complement to a collection of glass shelves and bins, all which make it easy to stock up on the essentials for every member of the household.
Best GE: GE® 17.5 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Top Freezer Refrigerator
Enjoy extra floorspace without sacrificing on capacity with this GE top freezer refrigerator with a 4.6 star rating, making it one of the best rated top freezer refrigerators on our list. There’s plenty of room for every item on your grocery list inside 17.5 cubic feet of storage decked inch-to-inch in edge-to-edge glass shelving, plus bins and drawers. On top of impressive stowing possibilities, this pick comes with GE Air Tower technology for premium airflow that promotes better preservation along with LED lighting for easy and clear access to every item.
Shop Top Freezer Refrigerators at Friedmans Appliance
Sweet and to the point, we believe top freezer refrigerators still to be a great option with many models granting the ability to store large amounts of food, all while affordably priced. At Friedmans Appliance, we carry a large variety of top freezer refrigerator options in our catalog, along with a full collection of refrigerators to satisfy every style and storage need.
To explore our entire inventory of major home appliances, shop online, by phone at 925-808-2950, or in-store at our appliance showroom located at 2304 Monument Boulevard in Pleasant Hill, CA.
Top Freezer FAQ
The best top freezer refrigerator depends on your specific needs, such as kitchen size, budget, energy efficiency, and desired features. Brands like GE, Whirlpool, and Frigidaire consistently earn high marks for reliability and performance. Some models offer advanced features like adjustable shelving, LED lighting, and built-in ice makers, while others focus on simplicity and affordability. Consider what matters most to you—whether it's quiet operation, smart features, or capacity—before deciding on the right model.
Top freezer refrigerators typically last between 10 to 15 years with proper care and maintenance. Their simpler design, compared to more feature-rich styles, often contributes to a longer lifespan. Regular cleaning of the coils, keeping the door seals tight, and maintaining consistent temperatures can help extend the unit’s life. If repairs become frequent or your energy bills start creeping up, it might be time to consider a replacement.
One disadvantage of a top freezer refrigerator is that the fridge compartment is lower to the ground, requiring you to bend down frequently to access fresh food items. These models also tend to have fewer high-end features compared to french door or bottom freezer styles. In terms of aesthetics and storage flexibility, they may feel more basic or compact, which might not suit larger households or those who prefer more organization options. However, they remain a solid choice for budget-conscious or space-limited kitchens.
If you live in or around Pleasant Hill, CA, visit us at Friedmans Appliance to explore a wide range of high-end top freezer refrigerators. Browse options in store or online, today!
Why Trust Friedmans Appliance?
Established in 1922, Friedmans Appliance has been the most trusted name in the Bay Area for over 100 years. What started as a small appliance store in Oakland has expanded to include every appliance you need for your home. Our commitment to value, inspiration, and character has only grown, creating an unbeatable reputation for top-notch appliances. At Friedmans, we strive to give our customers the best of the best, including our selection of top appliance brands and our exceptional customer service. Speaking of which, we offer a 100-day price guarantee on all our products — the longest in the industry!
Our wide selection of appliances is just one of the reasons we’re the best Bay Area appliance store. We carry refrigerators in every style, every cooking appliance to show off your chef skills, and every dishwasher or laundry appliance you need for cleanup.
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See for yourself why Friedmans is a trusted name in the Bay Area and shop bottom freezer refrigerators online. While we are located in Pleasant Hill, we deliver to all of Northern California — even Reno! If you have any questions, our team is always happy to help you find a Zip Instant Water dispenser in stores - whether you call us at 925-808-2950, email us, or use our online chat feature. Better yet, stop by our appliance store in Pleasant Hill to experience the quality in person. Visit us today!
→ Learn more: 36 Inch Refrigerator Options That Maximize Storage Without Dominating Your Kitchen