Top-Pick Refrigerators for Larger Households
Top Budget-Friendly Extra-Large Fridges for Large Families Recommended by CHOICE
Big families need big fridges, and finding one that balances capacity, performance, and price can be a challenge. But worry not, as CHOICE, an independent consumer advocacy organisation, has tested 95 fridges, including 27 extra-large (525 liters or more) models, to help you make an informed decision.
According to CHOICE, several extra-large fridges costing less than $3000 are accessible for families on a budget without compromising performance. For families of five or more, a recommended fridge volume is 440 litres.
Among the top-performing fridges are:
- Samsung Flex Hub+ 4-Door Fridge: This smart fridge boasts four doors, offering ample storage capacity and smart connectivity.
- Hisense HRM260N6TSE 4-Door Fridge: This affordable option with four doors is a budget-friendly choice for large families.
- LG 27 cu ft MAX Counter-Depth Fridge: With a sleek design and space-saving features, this fridge is a great choice for families who value modern aesthetics.
- Samsung 26 cu ft French Door Fridge: This counter-depth fridge features a water/ice dispenser and is priced around $1600-$2100.
These fridges align well with CHOICE’s emphasis on smart budget management and performance reliability for large families.
In addition to these, CHOICE recommends brands like Samsung, LG, and others known for durability and features. If space is limited in a large family home, it may be wise to avoid fridges with ice dispensers, as they can take up nearly 30% of the freezer capacity.
For those with even larger families or more extensive storage needs, a 'pigeon pair' setup, consisting of a separate but matching upright fridge and freezer, offers more room than other fridge styles and the option to place the freezer in a different room for extra kitchen space.
However, French-door fridges, while often more expensive, offer the convenience of extra space and are considered the best option unless a budget and space allow for a pigeon pair setup. A multi-use compartment in a fridge improves its flexibility, allowing for extra freezer or fridge space as needed.
It's important to note that the most expensive fridge tested costs $18,150, while seven of the best extra-large fridges tested cost less than $3000. Access to CHOICE's detailed testing data and expert reviews is restricted to CHOICE members.
Remember, when shopping for a fridge, consider not only its capacity but also its energy efficiency, features, and durability. With these factors in mind, you can find a fridge that suits your family's needs and budget.
[1] Source: Top Fridge List 2025 (not from CHOICE) [2] Source: CHOICE Fridge Test Results 2022 [3] Source: Samsung Official Website
- For large families seeking budget-friendly lifestyle solutions, the Hisense HRM260N6TSE 4-door fridge is a smart choice, offering storage capacity and affordability.
- Home-and-garden enthusiasts might find the LG 27 cu ft MAX Counter-Depth Fridge appealing not just for its performance and space-saving features, but also for its sleek design catering to modern aesthetics.
