A bottom freezer refrigerator places the freezer compartment below the fresh food section, offering easier access to everyday items at eye level. The best overall pick is the GE Appliances 17.7 cu. ft. model, thanks to its balanced size, fingerprint resistance, and modern features. For those prioritizing affordability, the BANGSON Apartment 7.1 Cu.Ft. offers a compact, budget-friendly solution, while the Kenmore 22.3 cu. ft. stands out for its large capacity for bigger households. The main tradeoffs in this category often involve balancing size, energy efficiency, and convenience features. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of these options and what to consider before buying.
Get home appliances delivered free — and shop member deals
- Fast, free delivery on millions of items
- Access to Prime Big Deal Days deals on October 6–7
- Prime Video, Amazon Music and more included
Complete the kit
Key Takeaways
- Size and capacity vary significantly, with larger models offering more storage but consuming more energy.
- Fingerprint-resistant finishes are common in premium models, making maintenance easier.
- Energy efficiency remains a key factor, especially in larger units or those with advanced features.
- Price points differ based on capacity, build quality, and added features like adjustable shelves or smart technology.
- Choosing the right bottom freezer refrigerator depends heavily on household size, kitchen space, and usage priorities.
| BANGSON Apartment 7.1 Cu.Ft Refrigerator with Bottom Freezer, Black |  | Best Compact Bottom Freezer for Small Spaces | Capacity: 7.1 Cu.Ft | Freezer Capacity: 1.65 Cu.Ft | Refrigerated Section Capacity: 5.45 Cu.Ft | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Office Fridge with Bottom Freezer, 7.1 Cu.Ft, Energy Saving, Adjustable Thermostat, Low Noise, Silver |  | Best Office-Ready Bottom Freezer with Versatile Features | Capacity: 7.1 Cu.Ft | Freezer Capacity: 1.65 Cu.Ft | Refrigerated Section Capacity: 5.45 Cu.Ft | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Kenmore 17.8 cu. ft. 31″ Bottom Freezer Refrigerator – FPR Stainless Steel |  | Best Large Capacity Bottom Freezer for Modern Kitchens | Capacity: 17.8 cu. ft. | Width: 31 inches | Type: Bottom Freezer Refrigerator | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Hamilton Beach 9.2 cu. ft. Bottom Mount Refrigerator with Freezer |  | Best Budget-Friendly Bottom Freezer for Small Spaces | Capacity: 9.2 cu. ft. | Freezer Location: Bottom | Shelves: 3 removable glass | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| GE Appliances 17.7 cu. ft. Bottom Freezer Refrigerator in Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel, Counter Depth |  | Best Counter-Depth Built-In Look for Modern Kitchens | Capacity: 17.7 cu. ft. | Color: Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel | Type: Bottom Freezer Refrigerator | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Kenmore 22.3 cu. ft. 31″ Bottom Freezer Refrigerator – Stainless Steel |  | Best Overall for Spacious, Organized Storage | Capacity: 22.3 cu. ft. | Width: 31 inches | Ice Maker: Yes, produces up to 3.5 lbs. of ice per day | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| what is thebottom freezer refrigerator | Capacity | Color |
|---|---|---|
| BANGSON Apartment 7.1 Cu.Ft Re | 7.1 Cu.Ft | — |
| Office Fridge with Bottom Free | 7.1 Cu.Ft | — |
| Kenmore 17.8 cu. ft. 31" Botto | 17.8 cu. ft. | Stainless Steel |
| Hamilton Beach 9.2 cu. ft. Bot | 9.2 cu. ft. | Stainless steel |
| GE Appliances 17.7 cu. ft. Bot | 17.7 cu. ft. | Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel |
| Kenmore 22.3 cu. ft. 31" Botto | 22.3 cu. ft. | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
BANGSON Apartment 7.1 Cu.Ft Refrigerator with Bottom Freezer, Black
This compact refrigerator is designed to maximize small apartment or office spaces, offering a 7.1 cu.ft capacity with a bottom freezer. Unlike larger models like the Kenmore 17.8 cu.ft., its size is ideal for tight quarters, but it sacrifices freezer capacity, making it less suitable for bulk frozen goods. Its adjustable shelves and energy-efficient, quiet operation make everyday use straightforward. The reversible door adds flexibility for placement, which is a plus over rigid designs. However, its limited freezer space may be a drawback if you freeze large quantities regularly. This pick is perfect for those who prioritize space-saving convenience but don’t need extensive frozen storage.
Pros:- Compact size fits well in small spaces
- Adjustable shelves and removable glass compartments
- Energy-efficient and quiet operation
Cons:- Limited freezer capacity for larger frozen items
- May experience bumps during transport requiring upright placement
Best for: Single professionals or small households needing a space-efficient fridge with basic frozen storage
Not ideal for: Large families or those with substantial frozen food needs due to limited freezer capacity
- Capacity:7.1 Cu.Ft
- Freezer Capacity:1.65 Cu.Ft
- Refrigerated Section Capacity:5.45 Cu.Ft
- Dimensions:21.3″ W x 20.7″ D x 56″ H
- Temperature Range (Freezer):-5.6°F to 15.1°F
- Noise Level:39 dB
Our verdict“This refrigerator is best for small-space dwellers who want a quiet, energy-efficient unit with flexible storage options.”
Office Fridge with Bottom Freezer, 7.1 Cu.Ft, Energy Saving, Adjustable Thermostat, Low Noise, Silver
This model shares the same capacity as the BANGSON but focuses on features that cater to office or bedroom environments, such as a reversible door, night light, and included accessories like an ice tray. Its adjustable temperature and removable shelves provide flexibility akin to the BANGSON, but it enhances convenience with added features like door racks and a defrost tool. Compared to the Kenmore’s larger capacity, it’s more suitable for lighter, everyday needs. Nonetheless, it faces similar limitations in freezer space if you need to freeze bulk items. This refrigerator suits those who want a quiet, low-maintenance unit for small-scale food storage in compact spaces.
Pros:- Adjustable temperature and removable shelves
- Low noise operation and energy-efficient design
- Includes ice tray and defrost tool for convenience
Cons:- Limited freezer capacity for large frozen items
- Requires upright placement before use
Best for: Office workers or students needing a reliable, quiet fridge with moderate frozen storage
Not ideal for: Families or users with heavy frozen food requirements due to limited freezer capacity
- Capacity:7.1 Cu.Ft
- Freezer Capacity:1.65 Cu.Ft
- Refrigerated Section Capacity:5.45 Cu.Ft
- Dimensions:21.3″ W x 20.7″ D x 56″ H
- Temperature Range (Freezer):-5.6°F to 15.1°F
- Number of Drawers:2 in freezer
Our verdict“Ideal for small-space environments needing a quiet, flexible fridge with some extra features for convenience.”
Kenmore 17.8 cu. ft. 31″ Bottom Freezer Refrigerator – FPR Stainless Steel
Compared to the smaller options, the Kenmore offers a substantially larger 17.8 cu.ft capacity within a sleek, counter-depth design that integrates seamlessly with cabinetry. It’s better suited to families or those who freeze regularly, thanks to its ample space and built-in ice maker that the smaller models lack. Its energy-efficient inverter compressor ensures quiet, consistent operation, but the larger size and absence of smart features mean it’s less suitable for those seeking high-tech connectivity. The counter-depth profile reduces interior volume slightly, but the aesthetic appeal and additional storage make it worth considering. This model excels in larger households that value capacity and modern design over compactness.
Pros:- Large 17.8 cu.ft capacity for family needs
- Sleek, built-in design with flush integration
- Energy-efficient, quiet inverter compressor
Cons:- Counter-depth design reduces interior volume slightly
- Lacks smart features or advanced technology
Best for: Families or users needing substantial frozen storage and a flush, integrated look
Not ideal for: Small apartments or spaces where maximum interior capacity is unnecessary
- Capacity:17.8 cu. ft.
- Width:31 inches
- Type:Bottom Freezer Refrigerator
- Color:Stainless Steel
- Ice Maker:Built-in, 3.5 lbs/day
- Energy Star Certified:Yes
Our verdict“This refrigerator is perfect for large households prioritizing capacity and a modern, integrated style.”
Hamilton Beach 9.2 cu. ft. Bottom Mount Refrigerator with Freezer
This 9.2 cu.ft model balances size and affordability, making it suitable for dorms, offices, or small kitchens. Its bottom freezer design simplifies access to frequently used refrigerated items, while removable glass shelves and organized compartments help maximize space. It’s comparable to the BANGSON and Office Fridge in size but offers slightly more capacity. The absence of energy efficiency ratings and potential noise issues are notable drawbacks, but its straightforward features make it accessible for budget-conscious buyers. For those who don’t require extensive frozen storage or advanced features, this refrigerator provides reliable basic performance.
Pros:- Bottom freezer for easy access
- Removable glass shelves for cleaning
- Space-efficient design fits in small areas
Cons:- Limited capacity for larger families
- No energy efficiency rating or noise data
Best for: Students, small households, or office spaces with limited frozen storage needs
Not ideal for: Large families or users needing high energy efficiency or quiet operation
- Capacity:9.2 cu. ft.
- Freezer Location:Bottom
- Shelves:3 removable glass
- Door Storage:Can rack for 355ML beverages
- Crisper:Crystal crisper with tempered-glass shelf
- Color:Stainless steel
Our verdict“A practical, budget-friendly choice for small spaces that prioritize simple, accessible frozen storage.”
GE Appliances 17.7 cu. ft. Bottom Freezer Refrigerator in Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel, Counter Depth
This GE model offers a nearly identical capacity to the Kenmore but emphasizes a seamless, built-in aesthetic with its counter-depth design. Its fingerprint-resistant finish and recessed handles contribute to a clean, modern appearance. While it lacks detailed internal storage info, its design suits buyers who prioritize a sleek look over maximum capacity. It’s less versatile in terms of internal organization compared to the Kenmore, but the aesthetic payoff is significant. This model is less suited for those needing extensive frozen storage or smart tech features. It appeals most to homeowners seeking a stylish, flush integration with cabinetry.
Pros:- Seamless, built-in appearance
- Fingerprint resistant stainless steel finish
- Recessed handles for sleek aesthetic
Cons:- Limited info on internal storage features
- No smart or advanced tech features
Best for: Design-conscious homeowners wanting a built-in look with fingerprint resistance
Not ideal for: Users requiring large freezer capacity or detailed storage customization
- Capacity:17.7 cu. ft.
- Color:Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel
- Type:Bottom Freezer Refrigerator
- Installation:Counter Depth
Our verdict“Best suited for those prioritizing a modern, integrated kitchen look over capacity or tech features.”
Kenmore 22.3 cu. ft. 31″ Bottom Freezer Refrigerator – Stainless Steel
This Kenmore model stands out for its generous 22.3 cu. ft. of storage, making it an excellent choice for families or those who prioritize room to organize groceries. Compared with smaller options like the Hamilton Beach 9.2 cu. ft., this fridge offers significantly more capacity without sacrificing energy efficiency, thanks to its ENERGY STAR certification. The flexible, adjustable glass shelves and two crisper drawers make meal prep and produce storage straightforward, while the built-in ice maker adds convenience. However, it lacks smart features or Wi-Fi connectivity, which might deter tech-savvy buyers. Its higher price reflects these added features and larger size, but those needing ample storage and energy savings will find this model highly compelling.
Pros:- Spacious 22.3 cu. ft. capacity for large households
- Energy-efficient with ENERGY STAR certification
- Flexible storage with adjustable glass shelves and multiple bins
- Built-in ice maker for added convenience
Cons:- Lacks smart features or Wi-Fi connectivity
- Potentially higher price due to advanced features and size
Best for: Families or households with frequent grocery shopping who need ample storage and organized compartments.
Not ideal for: Small apartments or single occupants with limited space and minimal storage needs.
- Capacity:22.3 cu. ft.
- Width:31 inches
- Ice Maker:Yes, produces up to 3.5 lbs. of ice per day
- Energy Star Certified:Yes
- Lighting:Enhanced LED
- Number of Crisper Drawers:2
Our verdict“This model is ideal for those seeking a large, organized refrigerator with energy savings and built-in ice, though it may be overkill for smaller households or minimalists.”
How We Picked
Our evaluation focused on core factors that matter most to buyers: performance, usability, build quality, ease of maintenance, and value. We compared capacity, energy efficiency, and feature sets to identify models suitable for different needs. The ranking reflects a balance between affordability and premium features, ensuring options for various budgets. We prioritized brands with proven reliability and considered user feedback on durability and convenience to ensure the selections are well-rounded and practical for everyday use.| what is thebottom freezer refrigerator | Color |
|---|---|
| BANGSON Apartment 7.1 Cu.Ft Re | — |
| Office Fridge with Bottom Free | — |
| Kenmore 17.8 cu. ft. 31" Botto | Stainless Steel |
| Hamilton Beach 9.2 cu. ft. Bot | Stainless steel |
| GE Appliances 17.7 cu. ft. Bot | Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel |
| Kenmore 22.3 cu. ft. 31" Botto | — |
Factors to Consider When Choosing What Is Thebottom Freezer Refrigerator
Selecting the right bottom freezer refrigerator involves considering several key factors that impact daily convenience and long-term satisfaction. Size and capacity should match household needs, while energy efficiency can save costs over time. Usability features like adjustable shelves or easy-to-clean surfaces improve daily operation. It’s also important to weigh the tradeoff between price and feature set, ensuring you get the best value for your budget. This guide will help you understand what matters most before making a purchase.Size and Capacity
Consider how much storage space your household needs. Larger models provide more room but can take up more kitchen space and consume more energy. Measure your available space carefully, and think about your typical grocery shopping habits to choose a size that fits your lifestyle without wasting energy or space.
Energy Efficiency
Look for models with high energy efficiency ratings, as bottom freezer units tend to run frequently. Features like inverter compressors and LED lighting can reduce power consumption. Investing in an energy-efficient model can lead to significant savings on electricity bills over its lifespan.
Features and Usability
Features such as adjustable shelves, humidity-controlled drawers, and easy-to-clean finishes enhance usability. Some models include smart technology or temperature controls, but these often come with higher price tags. Think about the daily convenience features that will genuinely improve your experience, rather than paying for bells and whistles you won’t use.
Build Quality and Maintenance
Durability depends on the quality of materials and brand reputation. Look for models with sturdy handles, reliable hinges, and straightforward cleaning surfaces. Consider models with fingerprint-resistant finishes to reduce maintenance effort, especially in busy households or high-traffic kitchens.
Price and Value
Price varies widely based on capacity, features, and brand. While it can be tempting to opt for the cheapest option, investing a bit more in a reliable, energy-efficient model often pays off through reduced operating costs and longevity. Balance your budget with your specific needs to find the best overall value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a bottom freezer refrigerator more energy-efficient than other types?
Bottom freezer refrigerators can be more energy-efficient than side-by-side models because they often have better insulation and more modern compressor technology. However, efficiency varies depending on the specific model and features. Larger units with advanced features tend to consume more power, so always check the ENERGY STAR ratings or similar certifications to compare efficiency levels clearly.
Are bottom freezer refrigerators harder to organize?
Organizing a bottom freezer can be slightly more challenging because the freezer is located below eye level, which may require bending or kneeling to access items. Many models include adjustable or sliding baskets to mitigate this issue. Consider your physical comfort and storage needs when choosing, especially if you regularly access frozen foods multiple times a day.
What size should I choose for a small household?
For a small household or limited space, compact models like the BANGSON Apartment 7.1 Cu.Ft. are ideal, as they fit well in tight spaces and use less energy. Larger models, such as the Kenmore 22.3 cu. ft., are better suited for bigger families or those who need extensive storage. Always measure your available space carefully before selecting a size.
Do bottom freezer refrigerators require special maintenance?
While maintenance is similar to other refrigerators, bottom freezer units benefit from regular cleaning of the condenser coils, door seals, and freezer compartments. Choosing models with fingerprint-resistant surfaces can reduce cleaning frequency. Proper defrosting and checking door seals help maintain efficiency and prolong the unit’s lifespan.
When is it worth paying extra for premium features?
Investing in premium features makes sense if you prioritize convenience, energy savings, or smart technology integration. For example, adjustable shelves, humidity controls, and smart diagnostics can improve daily usability and reduce long-term maintenance costs. If your household relies heavily on frozen foods or has specific storage needs, spending more upfront can be justified by increased efficiency and comfort.
Conclusion
Choosing the right bottom freezer refrigerator depends on your household size, budget, and priorities. The GE Appliances 17.7 cu. ft. stands out as the best overall for most households, offering a good balance of size, features, and efficiency. For those on a budget or with limited space, the BANGSON Apartment 7.1 Cu.Ft. provides reliable performance at a lower cost. If you need a large capacity and premium finishes, the Kenmore 22.3 cu. ft. is the best choice. Beginners or first-time buyers should focus on models with straightforward features and easy maintenance, while larger families may prioritize capacity and energy efficiency. Select based on your specific needs to get the best value and long-term satisfaction.
Fall Picks
fall essentials
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
