Reviewed by Jump to:
- Bosch
- Frigidaire
- GE
- KitchenAid
- LG
- Maytag
- Samsung
- Speed Queen
- How we picked the best appliance brands
- What to consider when shopping for appliance brands
- What to consider when shopping for major appliances
- Where should you buy kitchen appliances?
- What is the best time of year to buy kitchen appliances?
- Should kitchen appliances match?
- Why trust Good Housekeeping?
When it comes to home appliances, finding the right brand is as important as picking the perfect product. Whether upgrading your kitchen, revamping your laundry room or panic-buying a replacement for a broken fridge, choosing a reliable brand can save you time, money and frustration. But with so many options on the market — each claiming to be the best — it’s hard to know where to start.
That’s where we come in. The Good Housekeeping Institute began testing products back in the early 1900s. Each year, our team of testers continues to analyze and evaluate the latest large appliances to find the best of the best, from refrigerators and ranges to dishwashers and washing machines.
We’ve researched the top appliance brands on the market to help you find the perfect match for your home. Our analysts collaborate with brand representatives and product managers to understand new features, which enables our Lab experts to create the most effective tests.
This guide highlights brands known for durability, innovation and value. They reliably rise to the top in Lab and consumer testing. Keep reading to discover which names dominate the industry and why they’re worth your investment. We've also included top-performing products from each brand. If you're looking to build your dream kitchen, check out our picks for the best luxury kitchen appliance brands.
Bosch
Bosch Benchmark Series 24 Dishwasher
Bosch 36-Inch French Door Refrigerator
Bosch was founded in 1886 in Germany. Today, Bosch Appliances is a division of BSH Home Appliances Group, which is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of home appliances, celebrated for its high-quality, energy-efficient and innovative appliances that blend functionality with sleek, minimalist designs.
Bosch is especially known for its whisper-quiet dishwashers. Carolyn Forté, our Home Care and Cleaning Lab executive director, says they set the standard for quiet and use innovative technologies, like Crystal Dry, to solve the problem of dishes not emerging dry at the end of the cycle. Bosch dishwashers also have great capacity, and their latest innovation, Power Control, allows you to adjust the water pressure in each quadrant of the lower rack for a more custom and flexible loading experience.
Also noteworthy are Bosch’s precision-engineered refrigerators, which our testers praise for innovative designs, efficient cooling systems and spacious interiors.
Higher-end brands under the same parent company include Thermador, a luxury brand specializing in professional-grade performance and elegant design, and Gaggenau, an ultra-premium brand offering state-of-the-art kitchen appliances focusing on cutting-edge innovation, artistry and exclusivity.
Frigidaire
Frigidaire 13.0 cu. ft. Upright Freezer
Frigidaire 30 in. Induction Modular Cooktop
Frigidaire was founded in 1918 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. It gained fame as the inventor of the first self-contained refrigerator. Now a subsidiary of Electrolux, Frigidaire has expanded its product lineup to include a wide range of kitchen and laundry appliances.
The brand is best known for reliable, affordable appliances that cater to the needs of everyday households. Standout products in the lineup include freezers and refrigerators with adjustable shelving, innovative storage options and energy-saving technologies. The brand's ovens and cooktops test well for even heating, quick preheating and versatile cooking modes.
Frigidaire also offers premium lines like Frigidaire Professional and Frigidaire Gallery, designed for homeowners seeking enhanced aesthetics and advanced features.
GE
GE Profile UltraFresh Vent System Plus 5.3-cu ft High Efficiency Stackable Steam Cycle Smart Front-Load Washer
GE Appliances traces its roots back to 1907 when it was established as part of General Electric. In 2016, the company became a subsidiary of Haier, a global appliance brand, but continues to operate from its headquarters in Louisville, Kentucky.
GE was pivotal in modernizing homes with groundbreaking products like the first full-line electric kitchen in 1931. Forté points out that they were the first to introduce innovations like UltraFresh venting in the washing machine and dishwasher to mitigate odors and Microban-treated surfaces and components to control mold and bacteria growth. “These were two real pain points for consumers,” she says
Their designs cater to various budgets, making them a popular choice for various homeowners, but the appliances consistently perform well too. According to Nicole Papantoniou, director of the Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab, GE’s refrigerators and ranges are particularly lauded by testers for performance and durability. The brand also earns high ratings for reliability, energy efficiency and user-friendly features in our Labs.
GE’s Profile and Café lines blend high-end aesthetics with cutting-edge tech, appealing to style-conscious consumers. The Monogram line is GE’s top-tier offering, designed to compete in the luxury appliance market.
If you’re curious about smart features or have been frustrated with others in the past, Forté says GE’s Smart HQ app is super easy to use and offers real benefits like the ability to download a pet hair removal cycle to your washer and a feature that scans your detergent bottle and automatically determines the correct dosage on the washer.
KitchenAid
KitchenAid started with its iconic stand mixer in 1919, which remains a beloved staple in home kitchens today. Over the years, the brand expanded into a full line of kitchen appliances, offering everything from dishwashers to ranges and refrigerators.
A subsidiary of Whirlpool, KitchenAid is their mid-to-upper level brand known for blending professional-grade performance with stylish design. The brand’s features and user-friendly designs make it a favorite among cooking enthusiasts.
“KitchenAid’s dishwashers have always been great performers in our Cleaning Lab tests,” says Forté. “They are well designed and offer high-end touches at prices that aren’t over the top.”
LG
LG 30.7-cu ft Smart French Door Refrigerator
LG 24" Front Control Dishwasher
LG Electronics was founded in 1958 in South Korea. Today, LG is renowned for its cutting-edge technology, sleek designs and user-centric features across its extensive appliance lineup. “They make great products that have won lots of our best overall spots,” says Papantoniou. “Plus, their products are at an approachable price point.”
The brand is synonymous with innovation, offering smart appliances that combine modern aesthetics with advanced technology. For instance, the InstaView Door-in-Door refrigerators have glass panels that illuminate with a knock to show the contents inside and the ice makers make craft ice and feature innovative cooling systems.
LG dishwashers also perform very well in Cleaning Lab tests. Forté says they have solid construction and high-end features at mostly affordable prices. For higher-end appliance options, check out Signature Kitchen Suite, LG’s luxury line.
In addition to being rated the second most reliable brand by Yale Appliance, LG made some of the most energy-efficient fridges and freezers on the market in 2024, per EnergyStar.
Maytag
Maytag 5.2 cu. ft. Smart Capable White Top Load Washing Machine
Maytag was founded in 1893 and initially focused on farm equipment before pivoting to home appliances in the early 20th century. The brand was acquired by Whirlpool in 2006 but Maytag is still known for its rugged, dependable appliances designed to handle heavy use. The brand’s legacy is built on its commitment to durability and long-lasting performance.
Maytag is best known for its washers and dryers, which are engineered for reliability, large capacities and stain-removal capabilities. The brand’s focus on durability and straightforward functionality extends to its full range of appliances too, including refrigerators, dishwashers and cooking appliances. Maytag offers some of the industry’s best warranties — a whopping 10 years — underscoring its commitment to reliability.
Samsung
Samsung Bespoke 4-Door Flex with Family Hub+
Samsung Bespoke 5.3 cu. ft. Ultra-Capacity Smart Front Load Washer in Forest Green
Samsung was founded in 1938 and became a South Korean technology giant. The brand began producing appliances in the mid-20th century with a focus on integrating innovative technology into everyday products. Today, Samsung is known for blending state-of-the-art technology with stylish, user-friendly designs. Its product line spans refrigerators, ranges, dishwashers, washers, dryers and more.
Samsung’s smart technology, including the SmartThings platform, allows users to control and monitor appliances remotely, enhancing convenience. The brand also offers innovative features like advanced cooking modes and dual-door designs on ranges.
Our Lab testers consider Samsung’s Family Hub refrigerators (above) a game-changer, offering touchscreen displays, cameras to view the interior remotely and smart connectivity. Their sleek designs and innovative cooling systems are also highly rated.
The brand’s top-of-the-line Bespoke appliances come in high-fashion colors like forest green, brushed navy and silver steel. “Samsung definitely leads the way when it comes to giving consumers the ability to customize the look with fun front panels,” says Forté. They also have a premium line called Dacor — a top pick on our roundups of best built-in refrigerators and dual-fuel ranges.
Customers certainly feel the love for Samsung too. The brand ranked best in seven of eight kitchen categories in J.D. Power’s 2024 Appliance Satisfaction Study.
Speed Queen
Speed Queen Side-by-Side Washer & Dryer Set
Speed Queen only offers laundry appliances but is a brand worth knowing, especially if you’re a pet owner. “They offer solidly built machines with impressive warranties and are made here in the U.S.,” Forté says. Speed Queen appeals to those consumers who want more traditional looking and performing machines with features like center agitators, deeper fills and lids that don’t lock. “This group is growing as more consumers express dissatisfaction with the poor cleaning, low water requirements and maintenance issues they’ve experienced with front-load and other high-efficiency washing machines.”
How we picked the best appliance brands
The Good Housekeeping Institute has been testing products since the early 1900s. Each year, our team of analysts, engineers, chemists, product experts, cooks and registered dietitians evaluates thousands of products to help our readers find the best options based on their individual needs.
To create this list, our experts in the Kitchen Appliances Lab and Cleaning Lab provided data and insights on the brands and products that have consistently impressed us over the years. We selected brands and products that we have tested, that have performed well and that we would personally buy and recommend to friends and family.
What to consider when shopping for appliance brands
✔ Purpose: Determine what you need the appliance to do. Are you looking for basic functionality, advanced features or energy efficiency? There are hundreds of models available, but you can filter for features online to give you a starting point.
✔ Smart features: Some brands have more smart features than others, affecting how you use their appliances daily. When shopping, check that they actually meet your needs. A smart appliance can be worth the investment if it helps simplify your chores with voice control, remote access or diagnostics, but it's a waste of money if you have no intention of connecting to its app.
✔ Design: Consider both functionality and aesthetics — do you prefer timeless sleek stainless steel or custom cabinet fronts? Perhaps a trendier matte finish or black steel is more up your alley.
✔ Price point: Appliances can cost a pretty penny. Getting a sense of a brand's price range can help you determine which is best for you. Check out our articles for the best kitchen appliances — there is always a value pick in the bunch. But keep in mind that a pricier model may have better durability and efficiency, which saves you money in the long run.
✔ Warranty and customer support: Most brands offer a one-year warranty on appliances so it’s saying something when a brand is willing to guarantee their products for a longer period of time. Also, check to make sure your area has technicians that specialize in that specific brand, otherwise, you might need to buy a replacement sooner than you thought.
What to consider when shopping for major appliances
✔ Size: Measure your available space, taking into account your kitchen’s layout. Check for door clearance, ventilation requirements and placement in your kitchen's design. Choose an appliance size that fits your household’s needs. For instance, a fridge capacity that can fit a week’s worth of meal prep or a dishwasher that can load your particular cookware and tableware.
✔ Energy efficiency: The appliance industry has made great strides in making energy-efficient kitchen appliances at various price points. Choosing energy-efficient appliances is not only a smart way to reduce your household's carbon footprint, but it can also help you save money on your monthly electric bill. Look for Energy Star-rated appliances.
✔ Noise: Appliances like dishwashers and range hoods can disrupt your home if they're too loud. Check decibel ratings (anything below 45 dB is considered quiet).
✔ Installation: Check if professional installation is required and whether it’s included in the price. Ensure your kitchen has the proper outlet or gas line nearby to support the new appliance’s connections.
Where should you buy kitchen appliances?
With all of the bells and whistles offered today, shopping in person can help you find your best fit. Of course, you can also shop online if you have an idea of what you're looking for, but nothing beats getting a feel for the real thing in person.
Big-box retailers like Home Depot, Lowe’s, Best Buy and Costco stock popular brands and models. They offer competitive pricing, especially during sales events like Black Friday, with financing options and extended warranties. However, if you’re looking for a high-end brand or niche appliance, you won’t find it here. And if you’ve got a list of questions to ask, you might have a hard time finding a knowledgeable salesperson to help.
A local appliance store or specialty store like Yale Appliance or AJ Madison will more likely have higher-end brands and unique models — and knowledgeable staff specializing in appliances. You should also go here for customization options, including built-in appliances and panel-ready finishes.
If you know exactly what you want, online retailers like Amazon, Wayfair and Appliances Connection are convenient and have customer reviews you can cull through for detailed insights. You might find great deals on older models or clearance items but expect minimal customer service and possible delivery delays.
For the most significant discounts, head to a manufacturer outlet store or big-box outlet like Best Buy Outlet or Sears Outlet where they sell overstock, refurbished or scratch-and-dent appliances. It’s a great option for buyers on a budget who don’t mind minor cosmetic flaws and aren’t looking for a specific model.
What is the best time of year to buy kitchen appliances?
While there’s never a bad time of year to buy a new kitchen appliance if your range stops working or your fridge conks out, there are a few key times when you’re more likely to find deals or fresh inventory. Planning ahead will allow you to pounce when the time comes and avoid impulse buys.
Holiday sales events are great times for discounts, with Black Friday offering the deepest cuts on major appliances. Labor Day is a good time for discounts on last year’s models to make space for fresh inventory. If you’re looking at buying a suite, July 4th sales frequently feature appliance package deals.
Should kitchen appliances match?
Whether kitchen appliances should match depends on your personal style, the overall design of your kitchen and the effect you want to achieve.
Matching appliances make sense when you want to create a streamlined, harmonious appearance, which is especially appealing in open-concept or minimalist kitchens. If you’re into the black stainless steel look or matte white finishes, you’ll likely want the coordinated set. Buying a matching set (refrigerator, range, microwave and dishwasher) from the same brand often comes with discounts or promotions too.
On the other hand, mixing appliances can add character and visual interest, especially in modern, farmhouse or industrial kitchens. A standout appliance, like a professional-grade range, can mix well with other finishes if treated as a design feature. Plus, when one appliance needs replacing, there’s no pressure to buy one that matches. Choosing a finish that complements the existing ones can work just as well.
Several brands also offer panel-ready dishwashers and refrigerators to seamlessly match your cabinetry. This allows for flexibility when mixing appliance brands.
Why trust Good Housekeeping?
Perry Santanachote is a contributing writer for Good Housekeeping. She has been testing and writing about the best kitchen appliances and cookware for over 10 years. She has even more experience working as a recipe developer and cook in the food industry.
Nicole Papantoniou is the director of the GH Institute Kitchen Appliance Lab, where she oversees all testing and content related to cooking, drinking and eating. She regularly meets with kitchen appliance brands, including high-end kitchen appliance brands, to learn about forthcoming products. She determines what high-end kitchen appliances her team will test each year.
Eva Bleyer is the Institute's Kitchen Appliances Lab Analyst. She has tested and written about many of the products featured in this story as well as many other gas ranges, induction cooktops and electric ranges.
Carolyn Forté, executive director of the GH Institute Home Care and Cleaning Lab, has worked in the Good Housekeeping Institute for more than 42 years and has tested hundreds of dishwashers, washing machines and clothes dryers during her tenure. She regularly meets with appliance manufacturers to learn about the newest innovations and technologies as well as share her insights on consumer appliance trends and issues.
Perry Santanachote (she/her) has more than 15 years of experience in service journalism, specializing in food and consumer goods. She tests and reports on kitchen appliances and cooking tools. She also evaluates food products and cleaning supplies. She’s an experienced writer, product tester and recipe developer who has worked in labs, test kitchens and media organizations, including Thrillist and Consumer Reports.
Nicole (she/her) is the director of the Good Housekeeping Institute's Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab, where she has overseen content and testing related to kitchen and cooking appliances, tools and gear since 2019. She’s an experienced product tester and recipe creator, trained in classic culinary arts and culinary nutrition. She has worked in test kitchens for small kitchen appliance brands and national magazines, including Family Circle and Ladies’ Home Journal.
Carolyn Forté brings more than 40 years of experience as a consumer products expert to her role as executive director of the Good Housekeeping Institute's Home Care and Cleaning Lab. Using deep analytical testing and writing expertise in appliances, cleaning, textiles and organizational products, she produces cleaning and home care advice for GH, has authored numerous books and bookazines for the brand and partners with the American Cleaning Institute to co-produce the Discover Cleaning Summits. She holds a bachelor's degree in family and consumer sciences from Queens College, City University of New York.
Eva (she/her) is a reviews analyst in the Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab, where she tests kitchen gear, home appliances and culinary innovations. She graduated from NYU with a bachelor of science in food studies, nutrition and public health and is a trained chef through the Natural Gourmet Institute. Eva has more than 10 years of experience in the food industry, working as a food stylist, personal chef and marketing manager.
