size>matching. Matching is silly. Close is good.

Browse a website like AJMadison--they have a great search function.

Try to forget about matching. Find the items that fit well and that are within your budget then narrow it down by features that you like, along with reading reviews and learning about issues. If you are in a smaller market, also inquire about service in your area. Some brands can be harder to have serviced. This is how I went into my appliance search, determined not to be brand-loyal or care about matching. As the kitchen planning went on, I found I really wanted to match and was bothered by the things that didn't. It didn't make any sense but I couldn't shake the superficial desire. So I splurged on getting the custom panel version of a few things. As long as your kitchen cupboards aren't too old or too custom, you should be able to get a door made that matches exactly (from a kitchen cabinet supplier, not the appliance store). This will be more expensive for sure but a few mid-price mainstream appliance brands are now offering this option so prices are coming down. This would also allow you to choose your own handles which may fit your space better. I agree that the AJMadison website is excellent! It's like a public service for appliance junkies.

Lastly, counter depth does not equal counter depth. Not even close. Check out a mid-to-high end appliance store for a comparison of the different depths of fridges. I had to be schooled!

Good advice above.

If you really want a fridge flush with the counters, you'll have to have to bump up the budget for built-in. Look at Liebherr. Actually, they might even have a freestanding one. The reason counter depth sticks out a few inches is so the doors can open properly. Built-ins have special hinges, and some only open to 90°.

Matching is generally the mark of "builders' suites". Developers buy appliances by the truckload straight from the maker at a big discount because of the volume. They get all from one maker to maximize the discount. If you have a professional designer or contractor, they may be able to get a trade discount at the appliance store, and if you don't, your discount is not having to pay them. :) Some appliance stores will also give homeowners a discount for buying a whole kitchen's worth of appliances at one time, just for volume of business, or they may give you one lesser item (such as a dishwasher) for free. Ask. Don't expect, but be genial and civil and ask.

Most of us, as I think you know given the title of the thread, prefer to buy the most suitable to us (function, size, looks, budget) of each appliance. If you really want matching badges, choose the line that's the closest and hope for the best. Really, though, you could make your live so much easier if you'd just get the best choice in each category.

we looked at functionality and needs over buying a matching suite of appliances. ours are all mixed focused on best value/function/reviews. i actually think it would be weird if i saw someone's kitchen had the same brand appliances, unless they won them on the price is right ;)