Top Mount vs Bottom Mount Fridge: Which Is Right for You?

Two Great Fridge Layouts: How to Choose

Top mount and bottom mount fridges are the two most common fridge configurations in Australian homes. Both are practical, reliable, and widely available, but they suit different households and priorities. This guide compares them side by side to help you decide which is right for your kitchen.

For a full overview of all fridge types, see our complete fridge buying guide.

Top Mount Fridges

A top mount fridge places the freezer at the top and the refrigerator section below. This is the traditional configuration and remains one of the most popular in Australia.

Advantages

• More affordable: Top mount models are generally the least expensive fridge configuration for a given capacity.
• Better energy efficiency: Cold air from the freezer naturally sinks into the fridge section below, helping maintain temperature with less compressor work.
• Freezer at eye level: The freezer is easily visible and accessible without bending.
• Reliable and simple: Fewer moving parts than French door or side-by-side models.

Disadvantages

• Fridge section below eye level: You need to bend to see and access fresh food, which you do most frequently.
• Less organised freezer: Without drawers, the freezer can be harder to keep tidy.

Browse our range of top mount fridges.

Bottom Mount Fridges

A bottom mount fridge places the refrigerator section at eye level and the freezer as a pull-out drawer below.

Advantages

• Fresh food at eye level: You can see and access everything in the fridge without bending, which is more ergonomic for everyday use.
• Better organised freezer: Pull-out drawers with internal baskets make freezer organisation much easier.
• Modern aesthetic: The clean, wide fridge section at eye level suits contemporary kitchen designs.

Disadvantages

• Higher price: Bottom mount models are typically more expensive than comparable top mount models.
• Freezer access requires bending: While you access the freezer less often, bending to the pull-out drawer is a consideration for anyone with back or mobility issues.

Browse our range of bottom mount fridges.

Which Should You Choose?

• Budget is your priority: A top mount fridge offers the best value at any given capacity.
• You want the most ergonomic layout for fresh food access: A bottom mount fridge is more comfortable for everyday use.
• You have back or mobility issues: A top mount fridge means the freezer is accessible without significant bending. A bottom mount may be harder for some users.
• You want better freezer organisation: Bottom mount pull-out drawers with baskets are far easier to organise than a top mount freezer shelf.
• Energy efficiency matters most: Top mount models often achieve slightly better energy ratings, though both types are available with strong star ratings.

Ready to Shop?

Browse our full range of top mount fridges and bottom mount fridges. You can also explore our complete fridge range and refrigeration collection.