AEG RCB53324VX fridge freezer review
Buying a fridge freezer is a big outlay so it's important to get the one which fits your needs. We test-ran the AEG RCB53324VX to see how it differs from other similar models.
AEG RCB53324VX fridge freezer
Pros: A variety of compartments, shelves and drawers to keep different foods separate, generous amount of room in the fridge, auto-defrost.
Cons: Door compartments and shelf heights offer limited flexibility, door handles could be sturdier.
Overall score: 4/5
AEG state that they 'thrive on innovation' but we'd argue there's only so much innovation you need for a fridge freezer. Quality and functionality are paramount and we only want innovation if it adds real value without detracting from the requirements of the average home kitchen. We put all the features to the test to see just how practical the RCB53324V is compared to similar appliances.
This product is no longer available. To discover more best buys, read our round-up of the best fridge freezers.
First impressions of the AEG RCB53324VX fridge freezer
The exterior of this appliance looks functional. It doesn't match up to the sleek appearance of some we tested with its slightly rounded front, AEG-logoed temperature panel and plastic door handles. Inside the fridge and freezer look spacious, but the door shelving is quite busy with lots of separate sections and compartments – for some this might be a bonus.
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Is the AEG RCB53324VX fridge freezer easy to set up?
Like most fridge freezers, this simply requires a period for the coolant to settle before plugging in and then a wait for the appliance to cool before adding food.
What is the overall quality like?
The overall quality is good, although the freezer drawers feel a little flimsy and we noticed that when you pull on the door handles they give a bit. Out of all the models, this was one of the best on food preservation – although differences were negligible.
Capacity vs usable space
The fridge holds 214 litres with four main shelves, two drawers and three door shelves. If you don't mind mixing the contents up a bit to accommodate larger and narrower gaps between shelving then you can fill this fridge well. The freezer holds 91 litres and it has one deeper drawer out of the three to fit larger items.
What's the handle like?
The handle is a bit disappointing. The plastic finish detracts from the overall appearance and it moves when you pull it open. However, it's spacious, so easy to get a good grip on. The door release is a little sudden compared to some models.
What are the shelving options in the fridge?
There are four sturdy glass shelves and a four-bottle rack in the main compartment. There are options to move around all but the lowest shelf, but this renders the spacing far too narrow to be useful. The top shelf has a generous amount of space for taller items and you can easily remove the wine rack to create more room.
How are the fridge drawers?
This appliance has two deep drawers side by side, rather than one all the way across. We prefer this as an option for storing fruit and veg separately.
What benefits does the freezer offer?
The freezer has one deeper drawer. It is possible to remove one drawer and the glass shelf underneath if you need to store a very large item. This freezer has fast freeze as well as automatic defrost.
How's the overall visibility?
With clear glass and plastic throughout, except on the handle of the freezer drawers, we were able to view the contents easily.
Is it easy to control and monitor temperature?
The fridge temperature can be selected on the front door panel – 2, 5 and 8 degrees or an eco mode which is 3-4 degrees. There's a 'frostmatic' (fast freeze) option for the freezer which lowers the temperature when filling the freezer with non-frozen items.
Is there a door alarm?
No but if the door is left open for five minutes, the temperature key and LED indicator start to flash.
What is its footprint?
The footprint is 184.5cm (H) x 59.5cm (W) x 65cm (D).
Is it easy to clean?
All the shelves, drawers and compartments can be removed to aid cleaning but there are a lot of corners and crevices which stand to build up food over time if you don't stay on top of it.
Are there any accessories?
This fridge is big on accessories, it's got the standard egg cup holder, but also pegs to clip your herbs onto, plus small and larger door compartments for a variety of content shapes and sizes.
Are there any accessories available for purchase?
Yes – a fridge odour absorber.
Overall star ratings for the AEG RCB53324VX fridge freezer
Quality 4.5/5
Practicality 4/5
Capacity vs usable space 4/5
Temperature control 4/5
Ease of cleaning 3/5
Value for money 4.5/5
Overall score: 4/5
Our conclusion
This brand ticked the quality box but we felt they were a little too innovative with layout. Some might enjoy the various storage options in the fridge door but we found it somewhat prescriptive and as a Test Kitchen that really puts fridges through their paces, we can spot a model that might start to build up food debris. But if you love keeping things tidy at all times, this could be the model for you.
This product is no longer available. To discover more best buys, read our round-up of the best fridge freezers.
Product specifications at a glance
Dimensions:
184.5cm (H) x 59.5cm (W) x 65cm (D)
Capacity:
Fridge 214 litres
Freezer 91 litres
Energy efficiency class: A ++
Annual energy consumption per year in kWh: 237
Fast freeze: Yes
Automatic defrost: Yes
Reversible door handle: Yes
Fridge can be switched off separately: No
No. of fridge shelves: 4
No. of fridge door shelves: 3
No. of fridge drawers: 3
No. of freezer drawers: 3
Digital display: No
Separate controls for fridge and freezer: Temperature control for fridge only.
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This review was last updated in January 2021. If you have any questions, suggestions for future reviews or spot anything that has changed in price or availability please get in touch at goodfoodwebsite@immediate.co.uk.
