Samsung Sodastream refrigerator sparkles in tests

Four-door refrigerators, which typically feature a middle drawer that serves as an additional fridge or freezer compartment, are a versatile option for busy households. Unfortunately, none of the ones tested by Consumer Reports performed well enough to make our recommended list—until now. With an impressive overall score, the Samsung RF31FMESBSR, $2,900, holds its own with all French-door bottom-freezers, and it's the clear favorite among four-door models. It's also the first refrigerator to feature a built-in sparkling water dispenser.

Novelties aside, the Samsung RF31FMESBSR made our list of recommended refrigerators by excelling at the important stuff. Temperature control is superb and its dual evaporators should help keep food fresh by maintaining optimal humidity levels in the fresh-food section. The Energy Star model also earned an excellent score for efficiency, so it will help keep operating costs in check. Inside, the refrigerator offers a roomy 19 cubic feet of usable capacity, made greater with such features such as adjustable shelves, gallon door bins, spill-proof glass shelves, and LED lighting that helps you find what you're looking for fast.

As for the middle compartment, this one features four temperature settings ranging from 29° F for meat to 42° F for party platters. Then there's the sparkling water dispenser, the results of a partnership between Samsung and Sodastream. If your household goes through a lot of carbonated beverages, the dispenser could be a money saver, and it will definitely cut down on the number of plastic bottles you use. 

—Daniel DiClerico

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