Which brand of refrigerator is more reliable, LG or GE?

When comparing reliability between LG and GE refrigerators, independent service data and consumer surveys generally show GE as slightly more reliable overall, particularly for long-term ownership and service costs, though both have improved significantly. GE Appliances, now owned by Haier, has a very large US service network, high parts availability, and its top-freezer and side-by-side models have low service call rates within the first five years. GE's simpler linear platforms and traditional compressor designs in many models tend to have fewer catastrophic failures. LG refrigerators excel in features, energy efficiency, and design innovation with features like InstaView, Craft Ice, and ThinQ smart integration, and its linear compressor technology is efficient and quiet when working properly. However, LG experienced a well-documented period from roughly 2014 to 2019 where its linear compressors had higher-than-average failure rates, leading to class-action lawsuits and extended warranty programs. LG has since redesigned the compressor and improved reliability significantly in models built after 2020, but its repair costs can still be higher due to more specialized electronics and sealed system work. According to Yale Appliance and Consumer Reports service data from recent years, GE refrigerators have about a 15-18% service rate in the first year versus LG's 18-22%. For maximum reliability with lowest repair cost, GE is generally the safer choice, while LG is better if you prioritize features and design.