American Style Fridge Freezer vs. Traditional UK Fridge Freezer: Which is Right for You?
- Hugh Holmes
- Jan 15
- 7 min read
Updated: Jan 26
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American Style Fridge Freezer vs. Traditional UK Fridge Freezer: Which is Right for You?
Choosing the right fridge freezer can be tricky, especially with the growing popularity of the American style fridge freezer in the UK market. These spacious, often stylish appliances bring impressive storage and advanced features to the kitchen. But does it make sense to swap your traditional UK fridge freezer for an American one? In this guide, we’ll compare the pros and cons of each to help you decide which type of fridge freezer best suits your household needs.
1. Size and Capacity of American style Fridge Freezers
One of the main differences between American style fridge freezers and traditional UK fridge freezers is size. American fridge freezers are much wider and offer considerably more storage, with many models boasting capacities of 500 litres or more. For larger households or those who like to stock up on groceries, this extra space is a significant advantage.
However, their size can be a challenge. Traditional UK fridge freezers are more compact, which makes them easier to fit into smaller kitchens. Many American kitchens are larger than UK ones so these fridge freezers are made for these larger kitchens specifically. An American fridge freezer may require a complete kitchen reorganisation to fit, so if you’re tight on space, a standard UK model might be the better choice.
2. Storage Layout
The American fridge freezer layout offers a side-by-side design, with the fridge on one side and the freezer on the other. This configuration allows for easy access to both fresh and frozen food without always bending down to rummage through freezer drawers. Many American fridge freezers also come with wide shelves and customisable door compartments, perfect for larger items and keeping things organised.
Traditional fridge freezers in the UK typically have a freezer section below or above the fridge, with fewer compartments and narrower shelves. While efficient, they can be harder to organise, especially if you have a lot of fresh produce. If you prefer a structured and accessible layout, the American style may be more suited to you.
3. Convenience Features
American fridge freezers often come loaded with features designed to make kitchen life easier. From ice and water dispensers to smart technology that allows you to control temperatures via an app, these extras can be game-changers, these features do exist but are less common on UK models.
Models like the Samsung Series 8 American fridge freezer offer the SmartThings app which allows users to control their fridge freezer from their phone.
Standard UK fridge freezers are usually more straightforward, with fewer high-tech features. While this may appeal to those who prefer simplicity, it does mean you’ll miss out on some of the extra conveniences that American style fridge freezers provide. Consider whether these added features would enhance your kitchen experience before making your decision.
Samsung do have a UK style of fridge freezer with less features that also uses the SmartThings app, so there are options out there, it is worth noting that this UK model is roughly half the capacity of the Samsung Series 8 American fridge freezer.
4. Energy Efficiency
With the larger capacity and advanced features, American style fridge freezers do tend to use more energy than traditional models. However, many modern brands, like Samsung and LG, are improving energy efficiency with features like inverter compressors and LED lighting to help offset the higher power usage. The LG Electronics InstaView ThinQ GSVV80PYLL boasts inverter compressors and InstaView, meaning you can check contents of the fridge without cool air escaping which can save energy.
Traditional fridge freezers are generally smaller and less energy-intensive, making them ideal for those looking to minimise their electricity bills. If energy consumption is a top concern, it may be worth comparing energy ratings carefully to see if the benefits of an American style fridge freezer justify the potential increase in usage.
5. Budget Considerations
The advanced features and larger size of an American style fridge freezer usually come with a higher price tag, often ranging from £500 to well over £1,500. Brands like Samsung and LG are popular in this category, but they’re also on the pricier end. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, Hisense offers good-quality models with fewer bells and whistles but plenty of storage and solid performance. One example is the Hisense RS741N4WBE Freestanding American Side by side Door American Fridge Freezer which comes in at around half the price.
Traditional UK fridge freezers, meanwhile, tend to be more affordable, making them an excellent choice for smaller budgets. While you may sacrifice some storage space and features, you’ll still find efficient, reliable models that meet your essential needs without the higher upfront cost. The Hisense RB327N4WCE comes in at about half the price of their standard American style Fridge Freezers and has a water dispenser.
6. Maintenance and Installation
Installation is another factor that may influence your choice. Most American fridge freezers need more room to open fully, and if you choose a model with a water and ice dispenser, you might also require plumbing. This can add to the installation cost and requires a bit of planning, particularly if your kitchen layout isn’t already designed with these appliances in mind.
Traditional UK fridge freezers, on the other hand, are easier to install, with many models being plug-and-play. If you’re renting, or if you prefer a simpler appliance with fewer requirements, a standard fridge freezer may be more convenient. The Hisense RB327N4WCE has a non plumbed water dispenser and is much more compact than most American fridge freezers.
7. Aesthetic Appeal
The sleek and often stainless-steel finish of American style fridge freezers can elevate the look of any kitchen. Their large, statement-making design brings a professional, high-end vibe that complements modern kitchen decor. Brands like Samsung, LG, and Hisense offer a range of styles and finishes, from minimalist black to premium stainless steel.
Traditional fridge freezers come in a wider variety of sizes, styles, and finishes, and while they may lack the grand aesthetic of an American model, they can be a more flexible fit for different kitchen designs, particularly if you prefer a low-profile look.
8. Longevity and Durability
With their larger size and often higher build quality, American fridge freezers are designed to last. Many brands like Samsung and LG include warranties and offer high-quality materials, meaning they can be a worthwhile investment. They may also hold their value longer, as their features and designs are considered more premium.
Traditional fridge freezers are often simpler in design and thus have fewer components that could break down. They’re generally dependable, and if well-maintained, can also last a long time without needing as many repairs.
Which American Fridge Freezer?
If you have weighed up the pros and cons, you might be wondering, which American style fridge freezer is right for me? Below we will dive into what to consider when looking at these models.
Measurements: This is where you need to get your measuring tape out, American fridge freezers come in a variety of sizes and it's important to consider what will fit into your space. Whilst American Style fridge freezers are generally bigger than traditional ones, not all hope is lost if you are in a smaller space as there are many varieties of American fridge freezers such as the Hisense RF632N4BCE which is slimmer than many on the market and is a hybrid of the American style and the UK style (also known as a French door fridge freezer).
Energy usage: Most American fridge freezers are rated E for energy usage which means they are lower on the efficiency scale than say a kettle, however, this is the case for most fridge freezers. However, there are things you can do to ensure better energy efficiency such as keeping the doors closed as much as possible and keeping your unit frost free.
The LG Electronics InstaView ThinQ GSVV80PYLL American style fridge freezer has a function where you can see into the fridge without having to open the door. It also has an automatic defrost setting meaning that you can defrost without the painstaking experiencing of hacking ice. The downside however is that the cost of this fridge freezer is higher, so its important to consider whether the durability (and 5 year warranty) and energy saved over time is worth it for you.
You then have the Bosch KFN96APEAG French Door Fridge Freezer (pictured below) which whilst not strictly an American style fridge freezer but has the size and presence of one with energy saving design. Firstly, as there a 4 doors and not 2, you can open the door you need and will not lose as much energy as opening the whole section of the fridge/freezer. It is also frost free meaning no build up of frost which will save on energy. As above, this unit has a 5 year warranty but is on the pricier side.
Cost: As covered above, cost is a factor and with units ranging from around £500 - £1,500 it's hard to know what to go for. Having less gadgets often means the unit is cheaper, however, as explored some gadgets can save money in the long run. Also, some of the cheaper brands only have a one year warranty, whereas brands like LG and Bosch have a five year warranty meaning that spending £500 on a fridge freezer that may break before 5 years with no support after the one year mark may cost more on buying another fridge freezer alone. Ultimately, it's important to check what is within your budget and consider what you can get out of a fridge freezer at that price point.
Final Thoughts on Which American Style Fridge Freezer is Right for You
When it comes to deciding between an American fridge freezer and a traditional UK fridge freezer, the right choice depends on your household’s needs, budget, and kitchen space. If you’re looking for abundant storage, advanced technology, and a sleek design that makes a statement, an American style fridge freezer could be the perfect upgrade.
However, if you prefer a more compact, budget-friendly, and energy-efficient option, a traditional fridge freezer may be a better fit.
With brands like Samsung, LG, and Hisense leading the way in American style fridge freezers, there are plenty of options on the market to suit various budgets and preferences. Whether you prioritise storage, features, or cost, choosing the right fridge freezer can enhance your kitchen experience for years to come.
For more articles on American style fridge freezers you may want to stay on our site.
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