Should I Buy a Top Freezer or a Bottom Freezer Refrigerator?

Buying a new refrigerator is exciting! But the actual shopping for one? Not so much. There are so many options to choose from and you want to make the right choice. So when it comes to the configuration of your refrigerator, what is the right choice? Do you choose a refrigerator with a freezer at the top or the bottom of the unit? Below, we compare refrigerator configurations to help you decide if you should buy a top freezer or a bottom freezer model. Let’s get started!

What Is a Top Freezer Refrigerator?

A top freezer refrigerator is a classic and space-efficient kitchen appliance that features a freezer compartment positioned at the top of the unit. This design allows for convenient access to frequently used fresh food items located in the refrigerator section, which occupies the larger bottom portion.

The top freezer compartment is ideal for storing frozen goods and ice, providing a straightforward and organized solution for daily kitchen needs. With a timeless layout and energy-efficient operation, top freezer refrigerators remain a popular choice for those seeking functionality and affordability in their kitchen appliances.

Benefits of a Top Freezer Refrigerator:

• Classic Design: The traditional layout of a top freezer refrigerator appeals to those who appreciate a timeless and familiar design.

• Affordability: Top freezer models are often more budget-friendly, making them a cost-effective choice for households seeking reliable functionality without breaking the bank.

• Energy Efficiency: These refrigerators are known for their energy efficiency, helping to lower electricity costs over time.

• Easy Access to Fresh Items: With the fresh food compartment at eye level, accessing everyday essentials like fruits, vegetables, and beverages is convenient and efficient.

• Spacious Refrigerator Section: The larger refrigerator compartment provides ample space for storing groceries, particularly items that are accessed more frequently.

What Is a Bottom Freezer Refrigerator?

A bottom freezer refrigerator, in contrast to its top freezer counterpart, is designed with a freezer compartment located at the bottom of the unit. This configuration places fresh food items at eye level, offering easier access to fruits, vegetables, and other everyday essentials. The bottom freezer section typically features pull-out drawers or shelves, providing a well-organized space for frozen goods.

This design not only enhances accessibility but also minimizes bending and reaching, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize convenience. With a modern and sleek appearance, bottom freezer refrigerators bring both style and practicality to the kitchen, catering to the evolving needs of contemporary households.

Benefits of a Bottom Freezer Refrigerator:

• Modern Aesthetics: Bottom freezer refrigerators offer a sleek and contemporary appearance, contributing to a modern kitchen aesthetic.

• Convenient Freezer Access: Placing the freezer at the bottom allows for easy access to frozen items without the need to bend or stoop, promoting better ergonomic design.

• Optimized Fresh Food Storage: With the most-used fresh items at eye level, organizing and retrieving groceries becomes more straightforward, reducing the need to bend for frequently accessed items.

• Pull-Out Drawers: Bottom freezer models often feature pull-out drawers or shelves, enhancing organization and providing designated spaces for different types of frozen goods.

• Customization Options: Many bottom freezer refrigerators come with customizable storage features, allowing users to adapt the space to their specific storage needs and preferences.

Top Freezer vs Bottom Freezer Refrigerator

In the world of refrigerators, the battle between top-freezer and bottom-freezer designs has raged on, leaving consumers with the timeless question of which configuration reigns supreme. These two distinct styles bring unique features to the kitchen, each catering to different preferences and needs. Let the showdown begin!

Which Is More Convenient For Access?

For starters, we want to evaluate how you will regularly use your refrigerator to see which configuration suits you best on a daily.

Top freezers are typically between 61 - 66 inches tall which puts the freezer right at your eye level. This is convenient if you use your freezer a lot for frozen meals and individual items. It is also convenient for those large, heavy items like a Thanksgiving turkey or Christmas ham.

However, it is more likely that you use your refrigerator more often than your freezer. This means you will want the refrigerator section of your unit to be at eye level so that items are easier to access and don’t get lost.

Bending over and straining your back to look into your refrigerator can become a real pain in the neck (literally), especially if you are on the taller side.

Today’s bottom freezer refrigerator has a freezer drawer that makes it easier to organize and access your frozen items so you can have the best of both worlds.

Which Is More Affordable?

While this will depend on the model, top freezers are generally more affordable than their bottom freezer counterparts. Bottom freezer refrigerators make up all regular bottom freezer and French-door refrigerators, which can vary greatly in price. Top freezers are more limited in styles and features so they are more convenient for smaller budgets or second refrigerators.

Which Is More Energy-Efficient?

Refrigerators are able to keep their contents cool by using exterior coils to dissipate the heat. These coils are placed behind the unit near the bottom. Typically, you might presume that since heat rises, it takes more energy to cool a freezer in a top freezer model. However, because the coils are located near the bottom of the unit, the opposite is true.

Bottom freezers are next to those coils and require more energy. However, how much energy is used will also depend on the unit’s other efficiencies so be sure to ask an appliance specialist at the store to show you the annual energy use to effectively compare both configurations.

Which Model Has More Features?

Top freezers are notorious for being affordable and fairly basic when it comes to features. While you can get these models in more popular finishes, such as stainless steel, white, and black, they are generally limited in options.

As mentioned above, bottom freezers have a much larger range of models at different price points, so you can usually find them with more features and finishes (even panel-ready!) than top freezers.

To serve you best, we carry a wide range of top-freezer and bottom-freezer refrigerators from top brand-name appliance manufacturers.

Which Is Best For You?

Choosing between a top freezer and a bottom freezer refrigerator ultimately depends on your lifestyle, preferences, and the dynamics of your living space.

Top freezer refrigerators are ideal for budget-conscious individuals whose primary concerns are cost and reliable functionality. With a spacious refrigerator section, this design is also perfect for households that prioritize easy access to everyday items like fruits, vegetables, and beverages.

Given its space-efficient design and budget-friendly nature, a top freezer refrigerator is often a practical choice for small apartments. The classic layout maximizes fresh food storage while keeping costs in check.

Bottom freezer refrigerators are ideal for those who want a sleek and contemporary look in their kitchen. If bending over to reach frozen items is an issue, then bottom freezer models are not a great fit. Individuals who value customizable storage options and enhanced organization will appreciate the pull-out drawers and shelves commonly found in bottom freezer models.

Overall, if you prioritize style, advanced features, and organization, then bottom freezers are a great option. If you prioritize your budget and have a small living space, then the top freezer is a good fit.

Find Your Next Refrigerator at Mountain High!

Ready to elevate your kitchen with a new refrigerator? Explore our curated selection and find the perfect appliance that matches your lifestyle and preferences. Whether you're drawn to the timeless functionality of a top freezer or the modern convenience of a bottom freezer, we have options that cater to every need.

Find the best refrigerator for your apartment size, budget, and more with the help of our appliance experts. Visit our appliance store locations in Colorado Springs, Glenwood Springs, Littleton, Louisville, and Denver, CO, to browse our selection of French-door refrigerators, built-in refrigerators, side-by-side refrigerators, specialty refrigerators, and more!

Related readings:
- The Ultimate FAQ's on Built-In Refrigerators
- LG French Door Refrigerators: Top Selling Models & Reviews
- The Best Refrigerator Styles To Elevate Your Kitchen

Top & Bottom Freezer Refrigerators: Commonly Asked Questions

Why are top freezer refrigerators cheaper?

Top freezer refrigerators are generally more budget-friendly due to their simpler design and longstanding popularity. The classic top freezer configuration is a traditional and cost-effective choice for those seeking reliable functionality without additional features that may increase manufacturing costs.

Are bottom freezer refrigerators reliable?

Yes, bottom-freezer refrigerators are known for their reliability. With advancements in technology, these refrigerators offer efficient and dependable performance. Regular maintenance and adherence to usage guidelines contribute to their longevity and reliability.

What is the life expectancy of a bottom freezer refrigerator?

The life expectancy of a bottom freezer refrigerator typically ranges from 10 to 20 years, depending on factors such as brand, model, usage, and maintenance. Regular care and prompt repairs can extend the lifespan of the appliance.

Is it better to have a freezer on the bottom of a refrigerator?

Having a freezer on the bottom of a refrigerator is often preferred for ergonomic reasons. This design places frequently accessed fresh items at eye level, reducing the need to bend or stoop. It also enhances organization, providing convenient access to both the refrigerator and freezer compartments.

What are the disadvantages of a bottom freezer?

While bottom freezers offer numerous advantages, there are some drawbacks to consider. These may include limited storage space in the freezer compartment, potential difficulty in accessing frozen items at the back, and a slightly higher initial cost compared to top freezer models.

What is the difference between top mount and top freezer refrigerator?

The terms "top mount" and "top freezer" are often used interchangeably. Both refer to refrigerators with the freezer compartment located at the top. The key difference may lie in marketing language, where "top mount" might be used to highlight additional features or a particular design aesthetic.

Are top-mount fridges more efficient?

Top-mount fridges, or those with the freezer on top, are generally more energy-efficient than other configurations. The cold air in the freezer naturally falls, helping to maintain a consistent temperature in both the freezer and refrigerator compartments.

Why are top-mount fridges more energy-efficient?

Top-mount fridges are more energy-efficient primarily because the compressor, responsible for cooling the fridge and freezer, is situated at the bottom of the refrigerator. This strategic placement minimizes the impact of heat generated by the compressor on the top-mount freezer. As a result, the appliance requires less energy to sustain the optimal temperature, contributing to overall energy efficiency.