Altimo vs Fisher & Paykel Fridge Freezers

Altimo and Fisher & Paykel are at opposite ends of the market. Altimo's freestanding range starts with the 142-litre AFF144482W at £219, and its 50/50 manual-defrost AFF173552W is £280. Fisher & Paykel's large American-style fridge freezers begin with the 569-litre RF610ADJX7 frost-free model at £2,346 and climb to the RF540ANUX6 with ice and water dispensing at £2,698.

Every Fisher & Paykel model here offers 417 litres of fridge space and 152 litres of freezer space, and the RF540ANUX6 and RF540ADUX6 add an ice maker and water dispenser. The brand's ActiveSmart technology adjusts temperature, airflow and humidity to how the fridge is used, and a variable temperature zone can be set from -23°C to +7°C. The RF610ADJX7 includes humidity control for fruit and vegetables. Altimo's models are far simpler. The AFF144482W has manual defrost and three freezer drawers, while the frost-free AFF180552W adds LED lighting.

Altimo suits anyone who needs a fridge freezer for the least money, including landlords, students and small fitted kitchens. Fisher & Paykel suits buyers who want a premium American-style fridge with ice and water dispensing or humidity control, and who have the room for a 569-litre cabinet. These are large appliances, so measure the opening and check the door swing before ordering. The RF610ADJX7 at £2,346 is the lowest-priced of the four, and it is the frost-free model with humidity control among them. Buyers with smaller flats should look at Altimo first, since the Fisher & Paykel models are large appliances that suit spacious kitchens.

Bottom line: choose Altimo if you need a basic fridge freezer for under £300, such as the AFF144482W at £219; choose Fisher & Paykel if you want a premium 569-litre American-style fridge freezer with ice and water dispensing, such as the RF540ANUX6 at £2,698.