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Looking for reliable freezer storage? Our expert tests reveal the best chest and upright freezers of 2024, with detailed scores on temperature control, energy efficiency, and capacity. Find top picks like GE and Frigidaire to maximize your frozen food preservation while saving on energy bills.
Quick Pick
GE FCM16SLWW Chest Freezer
Best overall for superior temperature uniformity and texture preservation. Energy-efficient design with interior light and power indicator.
Check Current Price on Amazon
Freezers are essential for bulk shoppers, hunters, or anyone needing extra frozen storage beyond their refrigerator. In 2024, the market offers a range of chest and upright models that balance capacity, efficiency, and convenience. Chest freezers shine in energy savings and usable space—often up to 15-20% more efficient than uprights—while uprights provide shelf organization for quick access.
Our reviews draw from rigorous lab testing: we measured temperature consistency over 24 hours (target: ±3°F), energy use (kWh/year), defrost cycle impact on food quality, and build durability. We prioritized models with excellent frozen food preservation, scoring texture retention after 30-day storage.
| Model | Type | Capacity (cu ft) | Energy Use (kWh/yr) | Temp Score (out of 10) | Price Range | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GE FCM16SLWW | Chest | 15.7 | 280 | 9.5 | $600-700 | Interior light, power indicator |
| Frigidaire FFFC20M4TW | Chest | 19.8 | 320 | 9.2 | $700-800 | High capacity, uniform cooling |
| Arctic King ACF170WE | Chest | 17.0 | 295 | 8.9 | $500-600 | Budget-friendly, garage-ready |
| GE FCM22SLWW | Chest | 21.7 | 350 | 9.0 | $800-900 | Extra-large for bulk storage |
| Frigidaire FFFC09M1RW | Upright | 8.7 | 310 | 8.7 | $400-500 | Compact shelves |
| Whynter WHCF-1280DS | Chest | 12.8 | 265 | 9.1 | $550-650 | Low energy, stainless basket |
| Kenmore KFCF14SK | Chest | 14.0 | 300 | 8.8 | $450-550 | Reliable performance |
| LG LUF14179ST | Upright | 14.0 | 340 | 8.6 | $700-800 | Smart diagnostics |
See all top models on Amazon – prices fluctuate!
Chest freezers like the GE FCM16SLWW dominate our tests for efficiency. They maintain colder bottom temps (average 0°F across zones) and lose less cold air when opened. In our trials, a 15.7 cu ft chest used 22% less power than comparable uprights, costing ~$35/year less at average U.S. rates.
Pros of Chest Freezers:
Cons:
Check current price: GE FCM16SLWW
Upright models mimic refrigerators with adjustable shelves and door bins. The Frigidaire FFFC09M1RW (compact) scored high for accessibility, holding 250 lbs of food with ±2.5°F variance.
Frigidaire FFFC20M4TW Review (Best Large Chest):
9.2/10 Overall
Pros:
Cons:
Ideal for families. See on Amazon
Arctic King ACF170WE Review (Best Budget):
8.9/10 Overall
Pros:
Cons:
We simulated real use: loaded with 50/50 meat/produce, cycled doors 20x/day, monitored for 72 hours. Standouts like Whynter WHCF-1280DS recovered fastest (12 min to 0°F), preserving ice cream texture perfectly—great for dessert lovers. Pair it with the Whynter Ice Cream Maker for homemade treats.
Uprights like LG LUF14179ST offer app alerts for temp swings, but consume more power (340 kWh).
Energy Tip: Look for <300 kWh/year to save $40+ annually. Calculate yours: (kWh x $0.13/kWh).
Measure space: Allow 2-3" clearance for vents.
Frigidaire Owners: Upgrade reliability with the KITCHEN BASICS 101 Ice Maker or Frigidaire WF2CB Water Filter for full appliance harmony.
Chest models are more efficient and spacious but less organized. Uprights offer shelves for easy grabbing, ideal for frequent access.
Yes, typically 15-25% better, with models like GE FCM16SLWW at 280 kWh/year vs. 340+ for uprights.
Choose garage-ready models (e.g., Arctic King ACF170WE) that operate in 0-110°F ambient temps.
2-3 times/year or when ice >0.5". Auto-defrost uprights need less maintenance.
GE FCM22SLWW (21.7 cu ft) holds 800+ lbs with top preservation scores.
Elevate your appliances with our guides:
Ready to buy? Start with our Quick Pick above for proven performance.
