Expert review of the Samsung RS6HA8891SL Family Hub

When I see the Family Hub for the first time, I notice that the fridge is a true showpiece. This is mainly thanks to the touchscreen. We have never seen a screen in a fridge door before, so it's certainly unique. When I look at the available apps, I don't think all of them have added value. For example, I'd rather read the news on my tablet at the breakfast table than on the fridge.

The built-in touchscreen is completely recessed in the stainless steel door, making the design look very sleek. There are also no visible screws, and even the door handles are integrated in the door. Due to the touchscreen in the right door, it's slightly more difficult to open than the left door, but that was to be expected. The dispenser has a minimalistic design, because the spout is hidden in the fridge itself.

Beforehand, I was afraid that the touchscreen would be slow and unnecessary, but that's not true. The service speaks for itself and it responds quickly to my touch. The screen is slightly above the center so every family member, large and small, can use it. I myself am not that tall with only 1.66 meters, so I can easily look at the screen when I am close. For someone who is tall, it's less comfortable.

Thanks to the many apps, the Samsung Family hub is more than just a fridge. I play music via the Spotify app, but can also choose from the radio or play music via my phone. It's possible to mirror your Samsung TV on the touchscreen, so that you don't miss a single moment of your favorite program while cooking. Unfortunately, you do need a Samsung TV from after 2015 for this and I don't have one. If you have one, it's definitely a useful function.

The Family Hub knows what's in the fridge thanks to the camera in the fridge compartment. If I indicate when I put something in the fridge, it will send a message if a product is about to expire. Nice, because this way, I throw away less food. With the Recipe app, I can look for a recipe with the product that has to be consumed and other ingredients in the fridge. What's nice is that I can immediately send the necessary ingredients to the shopping list on my phone. If I'm at the supermarket and wonder if I still have eggs, I can take a look in the fridge via the app.

After testing, it quickly becomes apparent that the fridge is called the Family Hub for a good reason. It seems particularly useful to families. By synchronizing the calendar of each family member with the calendar on the fridge, everyone is aware of each other's plans. With the meal planner, you can plan meals for the rest of the week. You will never again be asked what's for dinner tonight. By putting the ingredients on your shopping list immediately, you can do all the weekly shopping in one go.

Samsung promises 'ultimate freshness'. Given the many extras for better cooling, I believe that my groceries will stay fresh longer. Whether that is 'ultimate' is something else entirely. The inverter motor ensures a stable temperature and thanks to the 2 independent cooling systems, the humidity is better. When the door is open, the metal plate keeps the interior cool and the multiple vents ensure even cooling. A downside: for this price, I had expected fresh zones.