LG InstaView™ Side-by-Side Refrigerator Review: Spacious, Stylish, But With a Catch

The LG InstaView™ Side-by-Side Refrigerator offers a compelling mix of modern features and spacious storage, but its innovative design comes with a crucial drawback. This review delves into the pros and cons of this stylish appliance, examining its standout ice maker, convenient InstaView door, and ample interior space. We explore whether these positive attributes outweigh a significant ergonomic flaw that could prove problematic for many users.This in-depth assessment will analyze the impressive dual ice maker system producing large, almost "ice ball"-sized cubes, and the added convenience of the UV Nano water filter. We'll also examine the well-organized interior and the potentially problematic placement of the refrigerator and freezer handles. Ultimately, we aim to determine whether the LG InstaView refrigerator’s impressive features justify its less-than-ideal design element.

Pros And Cons

ThinQ Side-by-Side Refrigerator
  • UV Nano water filter
  • Large ice balls from ice maker
  • Additional ice maker on the side
  • Tap-tap feature to show fridge contents
  • Multiple drawers
  • Incredible fridge overall
  • Ice maker is valuable
  • Low placement of freezer and fridge handles requires low reach to open.
  • Awkward to open

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Ice Maker & Water Filter

The LG InstaView refrigerator boasts a standout feature: its impressive ice maker. It produces large, almost 'ice ball'-sized cubes, perfect for chilling drinks. The UV Nano water filter is another plus, promising cleaner, healthier water. These features significantly enhance the overall user experience.

Close-up of the large ice cubes from the ice maker.
Close-up of the large ice cubes from the ice maker.

The ice maker is not only about the size of the ice; it has a second ice maker on the door, offering extra convenience. This dual ice maker system is a definite advantage, ensuring you always have plenty of ice on hand.

Shot showing the secondary ice maker in the refrigerator door.
Shot showing the secondary ice maker in the refrigerator door.

Interior Design & Accessibility

The refrigerator's interior is well-organized with multiple drawers and shelves, providing ample storage space. However, the placement of the freezer and refrigerator doors presents a significant drawback.

The reviewer demonstrating the low placement of the freezer handle.
The reviewer demonstrating the low placement of the freezer handle.

The handles are positioned very low, requiring considerable bending to open both the freezer and refrigerator doors. This design flaw is especially inconvenient for taller individuals, creating a frustrating user experience.

The reviewer demonstrating the low placement of the refrigerator handle.
The reviewer demonstrating the low placement of the refrigerator handle.

Smart Features

The InstaView door-in-door feature, although not essential, adds a touch of modernity and convenience. A simple double-tap illuminates the contents inside the door, allowing you to quickly check without opening the main compartment. This is a nice visual and convenient feature.

Demonstration of the InstaView feature, illuminating the inside of the door.
Demonstration of the InstaView feature, illuminating the inside of the door.

While the InstaView feature is a cool addition, its impact on overall functionality is minimal. The core functionality of refrigeration remains the most crucial aspect.

Overall Assessment

The LG InstaView refrigerator offers a compelling blend of advanced features and spacious design. The high-quality ice maker and the convenient InstaView door are definite highlights, offering enhanced convenience and a touch of modern style.

Overall shot of the refrigerator.
Overall shot of the refrigerator.

However, the low-placed handles significantly detract from the overall user experience, making it awkward to access the refrigerator and freezer. For individuals of average or above-average height, this could be a deal-breaker. While the impressive features are appealing, the awkward design element must be carefully considered.