Haier RRTW18VABW 18.2 Cu. Ft. Top Freezer White Review
$704.74
- Sections:
- Specs
- Design
- Performance
- Storage Space
- Usability
Specs
Budget appliances frequently offer similar traits for similar costs, and these models are no exception. The Frigidaire FFHT1817LS and the Haier RRTW18VABW are top-freezers for consumers shopping with a budget in mind. The Frigidaire is the more expensive of the two, with an MSRP of $849 - about $145 more than the Haier - but other than sturdier shelves, it doesn't have a great deal more to offer than the cheaper model.
Design
Both of these appliances are top-freezers. The Haier has a white matte finish, though, while the Frigidaire is stainless steel. The interiors are very similar, with three full-width shelves in the fridge. Using glass shelves with added spill protection, the Frigidaire does manage to feel less flimsy and of a higher quality than the Haier. Also of note is the shelf in the Frigidaire's freezer- unlike the Haier, which has no freezer shelf, it splits the compartment into two sections, meaning you don't have to stack so much of your food.
Performance
Both fridges did quite well, though the Frigidaire did manage to avoid the frequent pitfall of entry-level fridges - no warm spots. Both freezers had their issues with consistency, meaning you'll likely wind up with freezer burn no matter which appliance you choose. The Haier did manage to offer superior moisture retention in the crisper drawer. The Frigidaire lost an average 0.19 grams of moisture per hour, while the Haier just lost 0.14.
Storage Space
The Frigidaire turns out to be a slightly smaller appliance, but not by a great deal. The Haier has just about one cubic foot more storage in the fridge, and an extra half of a cubic foot in the freezer. It's a difference that could be noticed if you like to stock your fridge to the point that it over flows, but otherwise it's not a great enough gap to indicate a clear choice between the two.
Usability
The glass shelves in the Frigidaire offer more spill protection than the wire ones in the Haier, but the door has equally large containment issues. Controls on both machines are very straightforward, without using any actual degree scale to speak of, but the dial on the Haier is a bit harder to adjust due to the grip being on the bottom of the device.
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