LG's mega-capacity refrigerator skimps on energy not space

LG's latest French-door bottom-freezer, the LG LFX33975ST, has an industry-leading claimed capacity of 33 cubic feet. The use of vacuum insulated panels, or VIPs, is one factor in the $3,500 refrigerator's cavernous interior since this type of insulation allows for an exceptionally thin shell and doors. And based on our preliminary test results, LG's mega fridge is headed for a top spot in our Ratings of nearly 260 refrigerators.

Besides working the VIPs, LG squeezed every last cubic inch of storage into the LFX33975ST. The slim in-door ice maker frees up space on the top shelf, its door bins can handle gallon containers and then some, and there are even a pair of "slide 'n hide" compartments tucked under the temperature-controlled meat-deli-and-produce drawer. The LG also features a linear compressor and dual evaporators, which we've found maintain higher humidity levels in the fresh food section, while also keeping freezer odors from finding their way into the refrigerator.

As for performance, the LG LFX33975ST has aced most of our tests so far. Temperature control has been superb and it's proving to be one of the more energy efficient models in our Ratings, especially given its massive capacity. It's also exceptionally quiet, which you'll appreciate if your kitchen opens onto the rest of the home.

We should have final results in another few weeks. But if you need to move quickly on a refrigerator purchase, and you're looking for maximum capacity in a top-performing model, the LFX33975ST is definitely a model to consider. But first make sure you have the space. The measurements of this mega-model are: 35 3/4 inches wide by 70 1/4 inches high by 37 1/8 inches deep.