Finding the best American fridge freezer UK: are they worth the splurge?

They’re a smart, innovative and stylish investment…

american fridge freezers from Smeg, Samsung and Haier

by Piper Huxley |
Published on

If your kitchen needs a little refresh, there’s nothing cooler than splashing out on the best American fridge freezer for a smart and stylish appliance. When it comes to finding a fridge freezer for our homes, we're looking for pretty much the same thing: something stylish, with generous storage and maybe a practical feature (or two). With an American-style appliance, you're spoilt with innovative extras that will handle the mountain of Christmas dinner essentials you need to buy with ease...

Though perfect for larger households and those who love to host dinner parties and for Christmas, the problem with American fridge freezers is that they're bulky - so, that you'll need a lot of space in your kitchen. Our advice: make sure to measure up before you buy. If your kitchen is lacking in space, but you'd still like to be en vogue, our Features & Reviews Editor, Emily Gilbert, reviewed the Haier 3d 60 Series 5, which has an American feel - but, is half the size of the fridges on our list.

Best American fridge freezer at a glance

In this round-up, we’ll explore the best American fridge freezers available in the UK, discussing what sets them apart from other fridge freezers - from features, performance, style and value. Whether you’re after an appliance with smart capabilities, energy efficiency, or plenty of room for your weekly shop, we’ve got you covered with our list. It really is the best the UK has got to offer on these fancy fridges...

Best American fridge freezer UK

Writer's pick

Haier HSW79F18CIMM | SBS 90 Series 7Haier / AO
Price: $1,199 (was £1,699)

ao.com

Why not expand your fridge into this - our favourite pick? The HSW79F18CIMM holds up to 33 bags of shopping (which is pretty impressive if you ask us) - so, you have plenty of space. We love the Super Cool tech that will chill your food to perfection. Not only that, but the freezer reduces any build-ups and keeps the ideal temperature intact. Thanks to the super cool hOn app, you can control this appliance from your phone. Fabulous (!)

Not only does AO have fantastic service - with much praise for their fabulous delivery team - but, they keep prices low and competitive. You're sure to get a bargain on this Haier fridge freezer, which boasts so much space. Customers love the storage, large shelves and versatile compartments of this stylish appliance, with its LED lighting and sleek look. Plus, who doesn't get excited at a water and ice dispenser? Though many customers like this pick for its user-friendliness - thanks to the super-smart and convenient hOn app, one says they found the ice-making a tricky component.

Pros

  • Energy-efficient technology - so, lower energy bills
  • With a water and ice dispenser for luxury libations
  • Smartphone tech meets even temperatures guaranteed

Cons

  • One customer didn't find it as user-friendly as expected
DimensionsH177.5 x W90.5 x D72.6 cm
Power220-240 V
FitFreestanding
Fridge / Freezer Capacity391 L / 210 L
Energy RatingC
Noise Level35 dB
Defrost TypeNo Frost
DispenserWater and Ice
Freezer Split66 / 33
Guarantee2 Years
  • Multi Air Flow - keeps the fridge temperature even.
  • hOn app - helps control your appliance from your phone!
  • Ice dispenser - grants you instant ice at the touch of a button.
  • Total No Frost - reduces any icy build-ups.
  • Super Cool - chills foo quickly for freshness.
  • Inverter compressor - for the best energy efficiency.

Best American fridge freezer

Samsung Series 8 RS68A884CB1-EUSamsung / AO
Price: $1,299 (was £2,279)

ao.com

With plenty of features for the freshest food, the Samsung Series 8 RS68A884CB1-EU uses Clever Twin Cooling Plus to keep the temperature level. This Samsung fridge won't let blue cheese mix with your veggies - and, the Power Freezer will save the ice lollies that have part-defrosted in the car. Compartments are flexible and the water/ice dispenser will give a touch of glamour to your kitchen. You can fit so much inside - and the exterior is super stylish, which we love. What are reviews saying?

Customers love this super smart and sleek fridge freezer. With an average star rating of 4.9/5 - which is very good - from over 350 reviews, this Samsung American-style pick is said to be spacious and well-designed, thanks to its customisable design. It's quiet to run (perfect for open-plan living and energy-efficient) and sleek in appearance. It's said to be straightforward to install and use by many reviews. Apparently, according to some reviews, the water dispenser is a little fiddly to use...

Pros

  • Cooling is a major feature - rapid for super freshness
  • Enjoy drinks on the rocks, thanks to the swanky ice dispenser
  • Space can be customised, and switched around to suit you

Cons

  • Water dispenser is said to be a little fiddly to use
DimensionsH178 x W91.2 x D71.6 cm
Power225 kWh/year
FitFreestanding
Fridge / Freezer Capacity409 / 226 Litres
Energy RatingC
Noise Level35 dB
Defrost TypeNo Frost
DispenserYes - water and ice
Freezer Split65 Fridge / 35 Freezer
Guarantee5 Years
  • Twin Cooling Plus - essentially, is dual cooling for freshness.
  • PowerFreeze - will freeze your newly bought foods quickly.
  • Smart Conversion - means you have flexibility with compartments.
  • Ice dispenser - grants you instant ice at the touch of a button.
  • SpaceMax - gives you more space, which comes in handy for Christmas.

Premium pick

Bosch S6 KFI96APEAG IntegratedBosch / John Lewis

Or, consider a premium Bosch appliance. Their range of household goodies is top-tier, great quality and features innovative extras to help you out at home. We love that Bosch has taken elements of capacity and keeping your food fresh to the max. This fridge freezer is versatile and has a large capacity that you won't know what to do with it (!) It's perfect for Christmas, hosting and larger families; it holds bulkier items with ease. It keeps everything fresh, frost-free and well-cooled. And, thanks to the luxury ice and water dispenser, you can enjoy a chilled drink, no matter the hour.

Pros

  • Spacious XXL capacity fits large items with ease
  • Fresh food for longer, thanks to the VitaFresh tech
  • Instant ice and water dispensers are super convenient

Cons

  • Integrated - so will need to be built into your kitchen!
DimensionsH183 x W90.5 x D73.1 cm
Power327 kWh / a year
FitIntegrated
Capacity605 L
Energy RatingE
Noise Level38 dB
Defrost TypeFrost free
DispenserYes - water and ice
Fridge / Freezer Split65 / 35
Guarantee2-year guarantee included
  • XXL capacity offers extra storage and flexibility for bulky items.
  • VitaFresh System ensures contents stay at optimal temperatures.
  • No Frost prevents ice build-up - no need for manual defrosting!
  • MultiAirFlow ensures consistent humidity and temperature throughout.
  • Ice and water dispenser at the touch of a button - fabulous!
  • The multi-purpose shelf has been designed to accommodate so much!
  • The door open alarm lets you know when the door isn't fully closed...

Budget option

Hoover H-FRIDGE 500 MAXI HHSBSO-6174XWDK Non-Plumbed Total No Frost American Fridge Freezer - Stainless SteelAO.com
Price: $799 (was £899)

ao.com

Take a peek at our budget pick. It's the best quality American-style fridge freezer that may accommodate smaller budgets. We had to include the Hoover H-Fridge 500 MAXI in our list. With space for 29 bags of shopping, this American-style fridge freezer is no joke - and will keep your fresh produce neat, tidy and cool. Thanks to the No Frost tech, no icy build-ups will appear in the freezer and a consistent temperature is circulated throughout. You can stop worrying. What about reviews?

With an average mark of 4.7/5 stars, we can't help but appreciate Hoover's commitment to providing high-quality products at a more suitable price. Though this pick lacks the luxury of an ice dispenser (boo!), it does have many pros. Customers loved how much space it gave their weekly shopping, for both fresh and frozen food. The dedicated drawer spaces are a highlight. Not only that, but this stylish pick is super quiet and is said to be easy to use and to set up. Great value for money, too.

Pros

  • Intelligent electronic interface to set the ideal conditions
  • E-rated energy rating makes it efficient and cheap to run
  • Ergonomic and functional handle for great grip and visibility

Cons

  • No ice dispenser!
DimensionsH177 x W90 X D66 cm
Power312 kWh annually
FitFreestanding
Fridge / Freezer Capacity344 / 185 L
Energy RatingE
Noise Level39 dB / C-rated
Defrost TypeNo Frost
DispenserWater dispenser - no ice!
Fridge / Freezer Split65 / 35
Guarantee1 Year Warranty
  • Super Cool will quickly chill food to maintain its freshness.
  • Super Freeze, similarly, helps frozen food cool fast and not defrost!
  • Total No Frost - even temperature means no icy build-ups.
  • Save energy while you're away with the Holiday Setting!

Best 70/30 pick

Bertazzoni Master Series REF904FFNXTC Freestanding 70/30Bertazzoni / John Lewis

Kit out your kitchen with this Bertazzoni fridge freezer for the best storage space and frost-free technology. Don't be fooled by its stylish vibe, there are so many handy features inside to help you maximise space and keep food cool, calm and collected. It's been designed with frost-free technology and various storage options - perfect for families and those who love to host. We love the ice dispenser, which needs to be plumbed in - and reliable shelving that can be moved around and cleaned easily. It may be a little pricey, but it's a marvel.

Reviewers love this pick - giving it a fabulously-high 5/5 average star rating. They love the spacious capacity (with plenty of room for fresh foods) and how easy it is to organise your shop. Not only that but the smart design has also been praised by both - thanks to the adjustable glass shelves, wide bottom drawer and well-lit interiors. Noted for its premium appearance and functionality, this sturdy pick wouldn't look amiss in your kitchen and customers love the ice maker. However, it's very big, so make sure it fits through your door frames, never mind your kitchen (!)

Pros

  • Plenty of storage with deep drawers and adjustable shelving
  • Premium design: sleek, durable and high-end feel - super stylish!
  • The efficient layout and ice dispenser make hosting a dream

Cons

  • It's very big - make sure it can fit through your door frames
DimensionsH177.8 x W91.4 x D63.5 cm
Power240 kW
FitFreestanding
Fridge / Freezer Capacity449 / 187 L
Energy RatingE
Noise Level41 dB
Defrost TypeFrost Free
DispenserIce
Fridge / Freezer Split70 / 30
Guarantee2 year guarantee included
  • Plenty of food storage - with two salad crispers and five shelves.
  • Convenient ice dispenser, ideal for a quick and easy refreshment.
  • Frost-free tech prevents ice build-up and no need to defrost manually!
  • The fast freeze function helps keep food fresh and frozen!
  • Sturdy safety glass shelves which are durable and easy to clean.
  • Customisable storage shelves and LED display for usability.

Best for black kitchens

Smeg FQI60KD 91cm Four Door, Dark InoxSmeg

We think this Smeg fridge-freezer is just so swish. With a generous 343L fresh and 179 L frozen capacity, this pick will keep your groceries (particularly perishable and frozen food) well-preserved. Plus, you don't need to defrost manually, the No Frost system will sort that for you. Not forgetting the super smart Multiflow system which makes sure your fridge stays at the ideal temperature, with no spoils to your cheese, fish and meat. Luckily, the digital LED display will help you stay on top of temperature control for both parts. Sleek, stylish and a techie's dream, this quality pick will kit out your kitchen.

Pros

  • Distributes cold air evenly for ideal temperature
  • Stylish, high performance with advanced tech
  • Generous capacity and user-friendly digital display

Cons

  • No water or ice dispensers
DimensionsH190.5 x W91 x D69 cm
PowerSimilar models run at 338 kWh annually
FitPresumably freestanding
Capacity343 / 179 L
Energy RatingE - we think!
Noise LevelSimilar models are around 37 dB
Defrost TypeAutomatic / No Frost
DispenserN/A
Freezer Split75 / 35
GuaranteeUnspecified.
  • Large capacity: 343L fresh food storage and 179L freezer.
  • Lifeplus 0°C drawer preserves perishable foods for longer!
  • No Frost system eliminates the need for manual defrosting
  • Distributes air evenly for temperature and humidity.
  • Digital LED display allows easy temperature control for both.
  • Fast-freezing compartments will help save your items!
  • We love that it combines aesthetics with advanced tech.

Best for lovers of vintage

Who loves a little nostalgia? We do, that's for sure. A unique take on an American fridge freezer, the FQ960PB5 combines retro charm and modern tech to bring a powerhouse to your kitchen. With four doors, ample food storage and a Multiflow cooling system, this fridge freezer is jam-packed with tech to keep your beloved weekly shop safe, sound and cool. Meat, fish and cheese lovers will be secure in the knowledge that their favourite eats will be preserved for even longer - and the freezer will keep things fresh for a long time.

Pros

  • Nostalgic curvy look in the stylish retro-inspired range
  • Features a Multiflow cooling system for even distribution
  • No Frost system means the fridge will sort the frost out for you
DimensionsH187 x W91.5 x D70.5 cm
Power220-240 V
FitFreestanding
Capacity385 / 196 L
Energy RatingF
Noise Level35dB to 49dB
Defrost TypeTotal No Frost
DispenserIce only (inside)
Freezer Split66 / 34
Guarantee2 Years
  • Retro-inspired design is super nostalgic and adds character to your kitchen.
  • Generous capacity for fresh and frozen food storage across multiple drawers.
  • Multiflow system ensures even air distribution for optimal temperature.
  • Life Plus 0°C drawer preserves fish, cheese, and meat for longer.
  • No Frost system eliminates the need for manual defrosting.
  • Zero Temperature Compartment keeps food in optimal conditions.
  • Rotating middle section maximises usable fridge space.
  • Storage compartments are adjustable for fridge or freezer mode.
  • Salad crisper with blue light keeps vegetables fresh and enhances vitamin retention.

Best for smart compatibility

Samsung Family Hub RF65DG9H0EB1EU FreestandingSamsung / AO
Price: $2,799

ao.com

Consider the Samsung Family Hub RF65DG9H0EB1EU Freestanding American-style fridge freezer for a premium choice. It has plenty of amazing features, from generous storage to an inverter compressor for energy-efficient cooling to PowerFreeze to prevent newly added food items from defrosting. Not to mention, that the FlexZone drawers help you out during dinner parties and hosting for Christmas - and will maximise the space available. It's super smart, has a great holiday setting and has in-built water and ice dispensers. What's not to love?

With full marks across the board, this pick from Samsung is said to do everything it says to - and it's very stylish. Reviewers are very happy. Customers praise the sleek design and versatile storage options. And, they appreciate that it consumes less electricity compared to older models - which saves on bills! Whilst said to be a little heavy, this pick has advanced features like a family hub and AI food recognition.

Pros

  • Maintains ideal temperatures and prevents transfer between food
  • With a built-in water and ice dispenser for refreshing beverages
  • FlexZone™ and Smart Conversion provides adaptable storage

Cons

  • Said to be heavy and requires wide door clearance
DimensionsH183 x W91.2 x D72.3 cm
Power365 Kwh Annually
FitFreestanding
Capacity386 / 250 L
Energy RatingE
Noise Level37 dB
Defrost TypeTotal No Frost
DispenserYes - both types!
Freezer Split60 / 40
Guarantee2 Years
  • Generous storage makes it ideal for stocking up on all your favourite ingredients.
  • Twin Cooling Plus prevents odour and flavour mix-ups while keeping food fresh.
  • Total No Frost maintains temperatures to prevent icy build-ups.
  • Inverter compressor for energy-efficient cooling and long-lasting performance.
  • PowerFreeze quickly freezes newly added items for preservation.
  • Power Cool rapidly chills fresh items added to the fridge.
  • FlexZone™ adjustability keeps food separate and in ideal conditions.
  • Holiday Setting saves energy when you're away...
  • Built-in water and ice dispenser for hosting and summer days!

Buyers Guide

What do I need to consider when buying an American fridge freezer? We've written a small (but informative) guide on choosing the best American-style fridge for your modern kitchen. You'll need to find one that is a perfect fit for your lifestyle and kitchen. Read our well-researched thoughts below - and don't forget to budget smartly.

Ice and water dispensers are the stars of the show. I mean, who doesn't love the idea of fresh, chilled and filtered water on tap? And, a chilled Christmas tipple wouldn't be complete without an ice cube or two. Many models come with a built-in dispenser, but most require to be plumbed, as it needs a water connection.

Energy efficiency may be a big factor in your purchase. A-rated models are the best appliances for saving money on your bills and are kinder to the environment, too. With many things in life, you'll have to pay a little more to save money along the way.

Capacity is another thing that American fridge freezers take to the next level. Most models have a 500-700L capacity for larger families - and those who love to host.

Compartments are a stand-out feature in these fridge freezers, thanks to the adjustable shelves, large door shelving and dedicated storage for fresh fruit and veg (e.g. salad crispers and drink shelves). An American-style fridge is the go-to for an organised kitchen.

Tech features go hand in hand with American fridge freezers. Many of our top picks, above, feature smartphone connection, quick freeze and temperature control zones. How cool is that? These appliances are the future, we promise - and totally worth the purchase.

Smeg FQ960PB5 90cm Victoria Four Door Fridge Freezer in Pastel Blue
©Smeg

FAQs

Is an American fridge freezer worth it?

Perhaps, you're wondering: should I buy an American fridge freezer?

Our opinion is yes. American fridge freezers can be a great investment for households that store a lot of food or entertain a lot. They're large in capacity, often come with adjustable shelving for ease, are energy efficient and have a much-sought-after water and ice dispenser. How fabulous (!)

Though they are a little more pricey than a regular-sized model and a little more costly to run, we think they're worth it. American fridge freezers are HUGE (perfect for storing M&S Christmas food to order) and they last forever.

They'll save you from falling into the chest freezer when looking for ice cream...

How do I look after an American fridge freezer?

For those of you who like to keep on top of your home, there are some things we recommend to ensure your new fridge freezer stays in good condition.

Cleaning your fridge freezer isn't as tricky as you'd think. There's nothing worse than opening your fridge to unpleasant smells and spoiled food. We recommend using a mild detergent to wipe down both inside and outside the fridge regularly. And, don't forget to do a deep clean at least once a year - not neglecting the door deals (with a damp cloth) for an even temperature.

Other things like checking the temperature controls are optimal to inspecting the door seals for food residue should be on your maintenance checklist for your new kitchen gadget. When installing, make sure there's a good amount of air circulation around the fridge for safety. You don't want to overheat or overload your fridge when you need proper airflow.

Are all American fridge freezers the same size?

Most American-style fridge freezers are around the same size: 90 cm wide, 180 cm high and 70 cm deep. But, these will vary from model to model. We recommend measuring your space carefully - including your doorways! If you are strapped for space, there are slimline options designed for smaller kitchens...

Piper Huxley is a Homes and Lifestyle Product Writer for Yours. She will write on anything from décor to beauty. When not scouring the net for the best home bargains, Piper is snuggled up reading in bed, listening to music or enjoying a cup of tea. Sometimes all at once.

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