Types of Refrigerators Explained: A Simple Guide for Every Household

Choosing a new refrigerator is a big decision, especially when you’re trying to balance style, features, kitchen space, and budget. With so many different fridge types out there, it can feel overwhelming to know which refrigerator is right for your home. 

Whether you need something spacious for a big family or something compact for a cozy studio kitchen, this guide breaks it all down in a simple, helpful way. We’ll walk through the main fridge designs, who they may be best suited for, and the features to consider—plus give you tips on how to choose the right one without stretching your budget.

The Most Common Types of Fridges (And Who They’re Best For)

If you’ve ever browsed the fridge section of a big box store, you already know there’s no shortage of options. Here are the most popular refrigerator designs, along with what makes each one unique.

1. Top Freezer Refrigerators

A top freezer refrigerator is the classic design many people grew up with. The freezer is on the top portion of the appliance, and the refrigerator section sits below. This traditional layout is simple, efficient, and widely available, making it one of the most budget-friendly fridge types on the market.

Why people choose top freezer fridges:

• Familiar, easy-to-use layout
• Often the most affordable full-size refrigerator option
• Energy-efficient and dependable
• Fits well in small and mid-sized kitchens

Keep in mind:

• Fewer advanced features than newer styles
• Shelf width can be limited compared to French door or side-by-side models

Ideal for: Smaller households or anyone who wants a reliable, straightforward appliance without extra complexities.

2. Bottom Freezer Refrigerators

A bottom freezer refrigerator flips the classic design upside down by placing the freezer at the bottom (usually as a pull-out drawer), while the refrigerator section sits at eye level. With your most-used groceries front and center, you can spend less time bending and searching through shelves.

What makes bottom freezer fridges appealing:

• Fresh foods are easier to see and reach
• Freezer drawer offers simple pull-out access
• Many models include flexible shelf configurations
• Delivers a sleek, modern appearance without premium pricing

Things to keep in mind:

• Typically costs more than top freezer models
• Freezer bins may require bending to access deeper items

Ideal for: Shoppers who prioritize convenience, especially families that frequently grab fresh produce, drinks, and snacks.

3. Side-by-Side Refrigerators

A side-by-side refrigerator divides the appliance vertically, with the freezer on one side and the refrigerator on the other. This design is great for households that want quick access to both refrigerated and frozen foods. The narrow doors are helpful in kitchens with tight walkways, and many models include built-in water and ice dispensers.

Popular features of side-by-side fridges:

• Narrow doors make them perfect for smaller or galley-style kitchens
• Organized vertical freezer space
• Often equipped with ice and water dispensers
• Many shelves align at eye level for both compartments

Possible trade-offs:

• Narrow shelf width can make storing wide containers harder
• Freezer side may run out of space quickly

Ideal for: Homes that use their freezer as often as the fridge, or kitchens where space is limited for wide-opening doors.

4. French Door Refrigerators

A French door refrigerator features two side-by-side doors that open into a wide refrigerator compartment, with a freezer drawer located at the bottom. This style combines the best features of side-by-side and bottom freezer models, offering expansive fridge space and flexible storage. With roomy shelving and a sleek exterior, French door refrigerators are especially popular among large families and those who enjoy cooking, entertaining, or meal prep.

Why shoppers love French door fridges:

• Wide interior shelves fit big items like trays, pizza boxes, and tall containers
• Modern, high-end look that elevates a kitchen’s design
• Flexible storage options like adjustable shelves and door bins

Worth noting:

• Usually more expensive compared to other fridge types
• Larger footprint requires more kitchen space
• Bigger doors and drawers may need more clearance

Ideal for: Anyone who needs generous fridge space or just loves a sleek, modern appliance that looks great in the kitchen.

5. Compact and Mini Refrigerators

A compact or mini refrigerator is a scaled-down version of a standard fridge, typically sized for small living spaces like dorm rooms, studio apartments, offices, or garage hangouts. Some mini fridges include a small freezer compartment, while others focus purely on cooling.

Benefits of mini fridges include:

• Perfect for tight spaces or as a secondary fridge
• Budget-friendly and easy to move or reposition
• Great for beverages, snacks, and small grocery hauls

Limitations:

• Not suitable as the main refrigerator for most households
• Very limited freezer space (or none at all)

Ideal for: Studio apartments, dorms, or anyone who needs a small but reliable cold-storage solution.

Fridge Types at a Glance

Fridge Type: Top Freezer

• Best For - Budget shoppers, small households
• Key Features - Freezer on top, standard layout
• Pros - Affordable, reliable, energy-efficient
• Things to Consider - Fewer premium features; narrower shelf space

Fridge Type: Bottom Freezer

• Best For - Families who use fresh foods often
• Key Features - Fridge at eye level, freezer drawer
• Pros - Convenient access, modern look
• Things to Consider - Can cost more than top-freezer models

Fridge Type: Side-by-Side

• Best For - Homes needing equal freezer/fridge access
• Key Features - Vertically split compartments
• Pros - Narrow doors, plenty of freezer space, often has ice/water dispenser
• Things to Consider - Shelves may be narrower; can require more electricity

Fridge Type: French Door

• Best For - Large families, entertainers, modern kitchens
• Key Features - Double fridge doors + bottom freezer
• Pros - Wide shelves, flexible storage, premium features available
• Things to Consider - Higher price range; larger footprint

Fridge Type: Compact/Mini

• Best For - Small apartments, dorms, offices
• Key Features - Small footprint, basic cooling
• Pros - Affordable, space-saving
• Things to Consider - Limited storage; not ideal as a primary household fridge

How to Choose the Best Type of Fridge for Your Home

No matter which fridges you’re comparing, a few key questions can help you narrow down your choices:

1. What’s your household size?

• 1–2 people: Top freezer or compact fridge
• 3–4 people: Bottom freezer or side-by-side
• 5+ people: French door refrigerator

2. How much kitchen space do you have?

Measure height, width, depth, and door swing space before shopping. This step is especially important for French door and side-by-side models. Don’t forget to measure doorways that lead to your kitchen to ensure you can get the fridge in place after purchasing. 

3. What features matter most?

Popular fridge features to look for include:

• Adjustable shelves
• Water/ice dispensers
• Door storage
• Smart features
• Energy efficiency

4. What’s your budget?

Refrigerators range widely in cost based on size and features. If the fridge your household needs feels out of reach right now, you have options.

Budget Considerations: Don’t Settle for Less Than Your Home Needs

Refrigerators are long-term appliances, and you’ll use them every day for years. But high-quality models, larger sizes, or specialty features can be more expensive upfront. That’s where lease-to-own can help.

Instead of downsizing to save money or skipping features your family really needs, lease-to-own gives you another way to bring home the right fridge without paying the full cost upfront. With Acima Leasing, you can shop from tons of online and local retail partners and take home a new refrigerator today through a convenient lease-to-own option.

Get the Fridge You Need Today with Acima Leasing

You don't have to wait to get the right fridge for your household's needs. With Acima Leasing, you can get the refrigerator that fits your family and lifestyle today—and be on your path to ownership using lease-to-own and easy lease payment options. Check out our current retail partners to find the perfect fit for your kitchen and apply online, in-store, or through our app today.