Altimo vs Liebherr Fridge Freezers

Altimo and Liebherr are a big step apart on price. Altimo's freestanding range runs from the 142-litre AFF144482W at £219 to the 248-litre AFF173552W at £280. Liebherr's models start with the CTele 2531 SmartFrost fridge freezer at £529, with 234 litres in total, and rise to the 372-litre CNSFC574I NoFrost model at £999.

Liebherr's technology is what sets it apart. The CTele 2531 uses SmartFrost and DuoCooling, which runs two separate cooling circuits to limit odours passing between the fridge and freezer, and it includes VarioSpace drawers. The CNSFC574I is a NoFrost model with an icemaker and water tank, and its B rated 35dB noise level is quieter than the 40dB rating of the AFF173552W. The CNC5724 at £949 adds a touch display and a SmartDevice Box for smart control. Altimo's AFF144482W and AFF173552W both need manual defrosting, and the frost-free AFF180552W has no smart controls.

Altimo suits budget buyers, landlords and students who need a fridge freezer without spending a lot, and it is a sensible choice for a small household. Liebherr suits buyers who want a premium fridge freezer built to last, with smart controls and a large fresh-produce zone. The CTele 2531 is a good middle ground at £529 for a standard kitchen. Before buying a Liebherr, check the energy label and the cabinet dimensions, and make sure the door has room to open fully, because premium models can be larger than they look. Measure first, as the Liebherr fridge freezers are larger than most Altimo models.

Bottom line: choose Altimo if price is the only priority and manual defrosting is fine, such as the AFF144482W at £219; choose Liebherr if you want DuoCooling and a NoFrost fridge with an icemaker, such as the CNSFC574I at £999, or the smart CNC5724 at £949.