How do Kenmore brand appliances compare to other household name brands? We take an in-depth look.
If you’ve ever shopped at Sears, you’ve probably heard of the Kenmore brand. Created in 1913, Kenmore is the house brand for Sears. The brand was first used on a drop feed sewing machine, and later applied to all household appliances as of 1927. Over the last 90 years, Kenmore became a powerhouse in the appliance industry and amassed an incredible amount of trust among Sears customers.
Today, with the news that Sears is closing its doors, loyal customers are wondering where they can purchase their next Kenmore appliance. Amazon is an option for American customers – the online giant announced in July 2017 it will be selling Kenmore appliances online. However, it’s not yet available in Canada. Besides, customers still like the hands-on element when it comes to appliance shopping. They want to be able to see, hear and try out potential appliances, which can’t be done through eCommerce.
The good news is that Kenmore isn’t the only appliance brand out there. In fact, the “Kenmore” brand is simply a private label for Sears. Kenmore appliances are made by manufacturers that are household names themselves.
Brands such as Whirlpool, LG, and Electrolux all contribute to the Kenmore lineup, and others such as Samsung and Blomberg offer superior products in terms of quality and durability, and even come with added features you don’t find in Kenmore products.
If you’re wondering how these other household name appliance brands stack up against Kenmore, in terms of value, efficiency, convenience, durability and, ultimately, user experience, we’ve put together a list of alternate products for Kenmore fans.
The Fridge: Kenmore vs Samsung
One of Kenmore’s best-selling refrigerators is the Kenmore 72428. Featuring 26.7 cubic feet of compartmentalized storage space, French doors, bottom mount freezer drawer, and exterior water filter and ice dispenser, this model provides pretty much everything you’d expect from an upper tier fridge.
In the same price range, you’ll also find the Samsung RF28HFEDBSR. Like the Kenmore model, the Samsung also offers compartmentalized storage space, French doors, and an outer filtered water dispenser. However, the Samsung has more storage space (offering 28.07 cubic feet, as opposed to Kenmore’s 26.7), as well as its exclusive “twin cooling system” which prolongs the shelf life of your food by keeping it in its ideal environment.
Here’s a handy chart that compares one against the other:
While both refrigerators are aesthetically similar and pleasing to the eye and offer many of the same functionalities, the Samsung has features that provide the user with more bang for their buck.
Ovens & Stoves: Kenmore vs Whirlpool
When it comes to kitchen appliances, you’ll seldom use one more than your stove or oven. That’s why you want to make sure you choose a model that gives you as much range and flexibility as possible. Kenmore’s most in-demand model is the Kenmore 65312. It consists of a 5.7 cubic foot oven, True Convection functionality, and one expandable element within a smooth black stovetop and white exterior casing.
Whirlpool’s closest comparable, in terms of price and functionality, is the Whirlpool YWFE745H0FH. Its white exterior, smooth black stovetop, and True Convection oven setting are where the similarities end, however. The Whirlpool model offers all the benefits of the Kenmore, but the added value can be found in its larger oven space (6.4 cubic feet, to be exact), and TWO expandable elements, providing even more flexibility in preparing meals for both every day, as well as larger parties and get-togethers.
When compared side-by-side, the Whirlpool model has the edge in flexibility and functionality.
Dishwashers: Kenmore vs Blomberg
Kenmore’s popular model 15492 dishwasher features a 14-place setting capacity and top controls cased in a white exterior.
However, if you compare it to Blomberg’s DWT25502W, you’ll notice it adds more value than the Kenmore. The Blomberg model is also white with a 14 place setting capacity, but the similarities end there. First off, Blomberg dishwashers are equipped with a stainless steel interior (as opposed to Kenmore’s plastic interior). Stainless steel interior tubs can withstand more heat than plastic, can absorb more noise, and is more durable. Considering how much we rely on dishwashers to do the dirty work of cleaning dishes for us, durability is an extremely important element to consider when choosing a dishwasher.
Additionally, the Blomberg model is slightly quieter when in operation, coming in at 49 dBA (versus Kenmore’s 50 dBA noise level). Furthermore, it displays its controls on the front (as opposed to on the top), which makes it easier to start and stop wash cycles without having to open the door.
If you’re looking for convenience, superior functionality, and heightened durability at a cost-effective price, try a Blomberg dishwasher.
Washer and Dryer: Kenmore vs Samsung
When you’re shopping for a washer and dryer, you need to take into account the amount of people in your household, as well as the various items you’ll be washing and drying – all of which will have an impact on your decision. Of course, you’ll have the regular shirts, pants and underwear – but what about your king-size bedspread, upholstery, pillows, or other (sometimes very delicate) items that will eventually need to be washed?
Kenmore’s 48422 model washer offers a 4.5 cubic foot capacity and 7 wash cycles, while its 88422 model dryer boasts a 7 cubic foot capacity equipped with sensor dry.
However, at the same price, you’ll also find the Samsung line of washers and dryers (specifically, models WF42H5200APand DV42H5200EP respectively), that eclipse the Kenmore versions in terms of convenience, flexibility, and functionality.
Here is a quick comparison between the two:
Samsung’s superior volume capacity added wash cycles, and a steam cycle in both washer and dryer give it added value when compared to the Kenmore models, and offer the user a much wider range of flexibility.
Shop for Better Appliance Options
As you can see, there are many more options at your disposal than you may have been aware of. Kenmore may be a household name when it comes to appliances, but there is an ocean of cost-effective and technologically-superior brands for you to explore and choose from.
If you’re overwhelmed by choices or are not sure which product is right for you, Trail’s Product Experts can walk you through your options and help you find the right appliance to fit your space, budget and lifestyle. We also offer a Product Protection Plan, so you have peace of mind on your purchase. Whatever your choice, happy shopping!