Samsung's side-by-side refrigerator is an affordable option

This Samsung 24.8 cubic foot side-by-side refrigerator suits a buyer looking for a side-by-side that's roomy, but a bit more affordable.

While not as stylish and feature-laden (high-end lighting, sophisticated drawer temperature controls) as some side-by-sides, this #RS2530BBP model retails at about $1,100, while still including a water and ice dispenser. (Whirlpool also offers a side-by-side model that, for $950, includes an ice/water dispenser and is a Consumer Reports Best Buy).

This Samsung model, which is on the larger side at about 36 inches wide, has a through-the-door automatic ice maker and filtered water dispenser that comes equipped with a childproof lock. There's also an alarm to alert you when the door isn't shut properly.

Inside, the model offers electronic temperature control and multiple flow vents to provide consistent temperatures when cooling food.

It also has two spillproof glass shelves, and two slideout shelves for more flexibility with space. Four gallon-size door bins can hold milk and other oversize containers.

A vegetable crisper has a humidity adjustment feature to better coddle fruits and vegetables. There's also an additional deli bin.

This refrigerator isn't Energy Star qualified, consuming 695 KwH per hour at an estimated annual cost of $58.

It comes with a one-year limited warranty.

Online reviews of the quality of Samsung refrigerators are mixed and Consumer Reports doesn't include the vendor in recent repair history surveys. For some, Samsung models have a history of cooling and maintenance problems. ("We have had this fridge for around 1.5 years, and have had four service calls," one Best Buy reviewer wrote. "The temperature fluctuates on both sides, varying the food temps too much. One day you get ice cream out and it's too soft, the next day too hard. One time the ice will be cubed, the next time crushed.")

Others found this particular model cost and energy efficient, ("We replaced our existing fridge with this Samsung and could not be happier. Our electric bill dropped $20 a month after it was installed. The simplistic and intuitive design is wonderful. It is very spacious and makes the most of every cubic foot of space. The cost compared with other fridges makes it a wonderful option to buy," another Best Buy reviewer wrote.) A total of 13 Best Buy reviewers gave this refrigerator 3.5 out of 5 stars.

This model comes in black. (Of note to Sears shoppers, the retailer announced last March it would start carrying Samsung refrigerator models.)