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Neither Samsung nor Whirlpool is a substantiated overall winner. Consumer Reports’ 2026 analysis says refrigerator performance varies by style and price segment, so the useful comparison is between specific models in the configuration you want—not brand names in isolation.

What current reliability evidence says—and does not say

Consumer Reports’ brand analysis, updated September 25, 2026, uses laboratory testing, survey data, and price to assess French-door, side-by-side, and top-freezer refrigerators. It says there is no single best brand across all configurations. As Breann Chai, who oversees the publication’s refrigerator testing, put it: “There isn’t one best brand of refrigerator because brands tend to focus on particular segments or styles or prices of the market.” Read Consumer Reports’ 2026 brand analysis.

That finding does not establish a Samsung-versus-Whirlpool winner. Consumer Reports says it does not have enough current testing to score bottom-freezer or built-in brands, and its public summary does not provide complete matched Samsung and Whirlpool scores or model-level comparisons. Brand-level findings are not a guarantee about an individual refrigerator.

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Consumer Reports’ separate reliability report, updated September 22, 2026, draws on three annual member surveys covering 85,290 refrigerators with icemakers bought new from 2016 through 2026. It estimates that 30% of surveyed refrigerators with icemakers will have a problem by the end of year five. That is an overall survey estimate, not a failure rate for either Samsung or Whirlpool. The report says icemakers and water/ice dispensers are the most commonly reported problem areas, and groups reliability results by refrigerator style. See Consumer Reports’ 2026 reliability summary.

#1 Best Overall
FOWSRHRG 8PCS Refrigerator Door Hinge Shims, Refrigerator Door Height Adjustment Kits (for Samsung 3282540, DA60-00314C, PS6448337, AP5668209 Fridge) Replaces Parts, Different Thicknesses Spacer
  • Replacement Parts for Samsung: Refrigerator door height adjustment kits is perfect replacements for part numbers DA99-04158A (AP5668209), 3282540, DA60-00314C, and PS6448337. It is compatible with most models of Samsung refrigerators. (This product is not sponsored, endorsed, or affiliated with Samsung. Please check before purchase.)
  • Product Function: We also provide 4 different thicknesses of refrigerator leveling spacer at once.You just need to place the spacer kit on the bottom of the refrigerator door to solve the problem of dinging and unevenness of the refrigerator door
  • Compatible Models: DA99-04158A refrigerator door rings kit compatible with Samsung models,includingRF23J9018SR/AA; RF22K9581SR/AA; RF28K9580SG/AA; RF28K9070SR/AA; RF28K9070SG/AA; 3J9011SG/AA; RF28K9380SG/AA; RF28K9380SR/AA; RF24J9960S4/AA; RF22M9581SG/AA; RF28M9580SG/AA; 8090SG/AA; RF28HMEDBSR/AA; RF23M8090SR/AA; RT18M6215SR/ AA; RF23M8070SR/AA; RF22M9581SR/AA; RF28N9780SR/AA; RF28K9580SR/AA; RF22K9588SG/AA
  • Easy to Install: Firstly gently lift the refrigerator door, secondly install the refrigerator door hinge shim onto the hinge bracket, align and press firmly, finally check check if the hinge shim is balanced, if you need to fine-tune the position of the gasket you can use a screwdriver to pivot it
  • Refrigerator Door Hinge Shim Kit: Our refrigerator door hinge gaskets are made of high-quality materials for superior durability. In addition, these gaskets extend the life of your refrigerator and reduce worn out refrigerator door parts

Compare models in the same refrigerator style

Start with the configuration that fits your kitchen and habits. A brand-level comparison can obscure meaningful differences between French-door, side-by-side, top-freezer, bottom-freezer, and built-in refrigerators. Consumer Reports’ current brand scoring covers the first three styles listed below; it says current testing is insufficient for brand scores in the last two.

Style What to compare Current brand-level evidence
French-door Dimensions, usable capacity, drawer layout, dispenser setup, and exact model ratings Consumer Reports includes this style in its 2026 brand analysis.
Side-by-side Freezer access, shelf arrangement, width, dispenser features, and exact model ratings Consumer Reports includes this style in its 2026 brand analysis.
Top-freezer Capacity, freezer layout, dimensions, and whether an icemaker or dispenser is included Consumer Reports includes this style in its 2026 brand analysis.
Bottom-freezer Freezer access, capacity, layout, and exact model ratings Consumer Reports says it lacks enough current testing to score brands in this category.
Built-in Installation dimensions, cabinetry fit, capacity, and service support Consumer Reports says it lacks enough current testing to score brands in this category.

Samsung’s US buying guide recommends weighing kitchen space, design, size, features, and budget. It describes French-door, four-door flex, side-by-side, and Family Hub options; availability varies by model. Samsung lists examples such as FlexZone adjustable-temperature storage, beverage systems, multiple ice options, and connected functions. These are manufacturer descriptions, not independent evidence of comparative quality or reliability. Review Samsung’s refrigerator buying guide.

Rank #2
ALVAR W11162443 Refrigerator Crisper Drawer For Whirlpool Fridge Drawer
  • [UPGRADED W11162443 Refrigerator Crisper Drawers for Whirlpool Fridge Drawer - HUMIDITY CONTROL] The Upgraded w11162443 w11046494 whirlpool Crisper Drawer Replacement designed specifically for Whirlpool refrigerators is positioned as the second drawer from the bottom. The Whirlpool Crisper Drawer is equipped with a humidity-controlled environment that helps maintain the optimal humidity level to prolong the freshness of produce.
  • [W11162443 Refrigerator Drawer Replacement - UPPER] This Whirlpool Refrigerator Crisper Drawer W11162443 Bin replace parts Number: W11162443, W10899435, AP6327285,4591513, PS12347929, EAP12347929, W11046494 Whirlpool crisper. The W11162443 Whirlpool Fridge Drawer Replacement not only has a quick and easy installation process, but its sliding mechanism is also incredibly smooth, achieving a perfect sliding experience. With just a small investment, you can easily repair and upgrade the functionality of your refrigerator drawer, making daily use more convenient.
  • [W11162443 Crisper Drawer Whirlpool Drawer Replacement] The whirlpool w11162443 refrigerator crisper drawer align perfectly with the refrigerator's tracks, ensuring smooth use. Durable materials and advanced technology,with sturdy enough to withstand daily use, excellent stability and load-bearing capacity.
  • [W11162443 Crisper Drawer for Whirlpool Refrigerator Drawers Replacement] W11162443 W11046494 refrigerator crisper pan compatible with Whirlpool Maytag Refrigerator Parts. Fit models: WRS321SDHZ08 WRS312SNHB00 WRS312SNHB01 WRS312SNHM00 WRS312SNHM01 WRS312SNHW00 WRS312SNHW01 WRS315SNHB00 WRS315SNHB01 WRS315SNHM00 WRS315SNHM01 WRS315SNHW00 WRS315SNHW01 WRS321SDHB00 WRS321SDHB01 WRS321SDHV00 WRS321SDHV01 WRS321SDHW00 WRS321SDHW01 WRS321SDHZ00 WRS321SDHZ01 WRS325SDHB00 WRS325SDHB01 WRS325SDHV00 WRS325SDHV01 WRS325SDHW00 WRS325SDHW01 WRS325SDHZ00 WRS325SDHZ01 WRS331SDHB00 WRS331SDHM00 WRS331SDHW00 WRS335SDHB00 WRS335SDHM00 WRS335SDHW00 WRS555SIHB00 WRS555SIHW00 WRS555SIHZ00 Crisper Drawer etc
  • [Refrigerator Crisper Drawer for Whirlpool Replacement Drawer - EXCELLENT TOUGHNESS] Upgraded W11162443 Crisper Drawer whirlpool refrigerator drawer is made of high-quality food grade durable materials with good toughness and bearing performance, it can withstand the daily use of refrigerators and is used to store meat or vegetables. The W11162443 Whirlpool Drawer Replacement can help you repair damaged, lost or damaged symptoms, which is more durable than other ordinary plastics and comparable to the original parts. Perfectly compatible with your Whirlpool refrigerator, it won't affect your door closing mechanism.

Whirlpool’s US site lists its refrigerator product category, but the available information here does not establish specific Whirlpool model features or current paired prices. Check the exact model page and manual for specifications before comparing it with a Samsung candidate. Browse Whirlpool refrigerators.

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Use this checklist to narrow the choice

  1. Measure the installation space. Compare each candidate’s width, height, depth, door swing, and required installation clearances with your kitchen. A refrigerator that does not fit—or cannot open fully in place—is not a practical match.
  2. Compare usable capacity and layout. Check shelf positions, drawers, door storage, and freezer organization against how you store food. Similar advertised capacity does not guarantee an equally useful interior.
  3. Decide which water and ice features you need. Compare models with and without an icemaker, external dispenser, or filtration. These features can add convenience, but icemakers and dispensers are also the most commonly reported problem areas in Consumer Reports’ overall survey findings.
  4. Evaluate model-specific extras. If adjustable-temperature compartments or smart functions matter, confirm that the exact model includes them and that you will use them. Feature names and availability vary by model.
  5. Check ownership costs and support. Compare current prices, energy-use information and labels, warranty terms, and service availability where you live. Confirm replacement-filter compatibility in the refrigerator manual if the model uses a filter.
  6. Look up the exact model number. Before buying, check independent ratings and owner-satisfaction information for the closest available style and model. Do not treat a brand score as a promise about a particular unit.
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How to make the final Samsung–Whirlpool comparison

Write down one Samsung model and one Whirlpool model that meet the same requirements, then compare their specifications, independent model ratings, current prices, warranty documents, and local service options side by side. If you cannot find credible ratings for either exact model, note that gap rather than inferring a winner from the brand’s overall reputation. The available public summaries do not establish a matched-model winner or paired current prices; the choice depends on your kitchen, preferred features, and the evidence available for the models you are actually considering.

Best Value
GLACIER FRESH Drip Tray Catcher, Fridge Accessories, Grey 2 Pack.
  • Super Absorbent Material: The refrigerator drip tray is made of high-quality and super-absorbent material, which can quickly absorb water and other liquids, prevent the diffusion of spills, and keep the refrigerator clean and dry.
  • Easy to Clean: Say goodbye to messy and time-consuming cleaning. This refrigerator drip pan is easy to clean. You can simply hand wash or machine wash and let it air dry. Even after repeated washing, it will not lose its absorption.
  • Cut to Fit: 3.1*8.2 inches, this drip mat can fit most refrigerator water trays. If the size is unsuitable, you can use scissors to cut the drip catcher tray to fit your refrigerator. It's also easy to install and replace, simply remove the old mat and replace it with the new one.
  • Anti-slip Design: The bottom of refrigerator drip trays is designed with anti-slip rubber, so the fridge water catcher mat can stay in place when opening or closing the fridge door.
  • Protect Your Refrigerator: Don't let leaks and spills damage your refrigerator. This drip tray pad protects your fridge from moisture and keeps it looking and smelling fresh.
Rank #4
4PCS Upgraded DA99-04158A Hinge Shim Refrigerator Door Height Adjustment Kits,Replacement Parts for Samsung Refrigerator 3282540,DA60-00314C,PS6448337,AP5668209,4 Different Thickness (4)
  • Our hinge shim is a perfect replacement for part number DA99-04158A (AP5668209), 3282540, DA60-00314C, and PS6448337. It is compatible with a wide range of Samsung refrigerator models.
  • Compatible Models: Refrigerator hinge shim compatible with RF23J9018SR/AA; RF22K9581SR/AA; RF28K9580SG/AA; RF28K9070SR/AA; RF28K9070SG/AA; 3J9011SG/AA; RF28K9380SG/AA; RF28K9380SR/AA; RF24J9960S4/AA; RF22M9581SG/AA; RF28M9580SG/AA; 8090SG/AA; RF28HMEDBSR/AA; RF23M8090SR/AA; RT18M6215SR/ AA; RF23M8070SR/AA; RF22M9581SR/AA; RF28N9780SR/AA; RF28K9580SR/AA; RF22K9588SG/AA.
  • please try to use 4 pieces replacement for samsung bespoke refrigerator accessories with different thicknesses to meet your needs. If your door is uneven, these shims can be placed on the lower hinge pin below the bushing.
  • Install the shim onto the hinge brackets, align and press down. After installation, check whether it is balanced, if not, you can use a screwdriver to gently adjust the position of the shim until it reaches a proper balance.
  • Our refrigerator door hinge gaskets are made of high-quality materials for superior durability and water resistance. Additionally, these gaskets can extend the life of your refrigerator.
Rank #3
Samsung 26.7 Cu. Ft. Large Capacity Side-By-Side Refrigerator with Family Hub, Stainless Steel, RS27T5561SR/AA
  • LARGE CAPACITY: Completely redesigned interior with 27.4 cu. ft. capacity that fits 10% more groceries than ever.
  • MODERN DESIGN: Flat panel door design with easy-to-open recessed handles blends into your cabinetry to give you a modern built-in-look.
  • FINGERPRINT-RESISTANT FINISH: Finish that withstands everyday smudges so you spend less time cleaning.
  • ALL-AROUND COOLING: The multivent technology keeps items on every shelf evenly cooled.
  • INDOOR ICEMAKER: High-capacity indoor icemaker that saves shelf space for your frozen foods.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.