Dreaming of a kitchen that looks sleek and modern, but feeling overwhelmed by refrigerator choices? You’re not alone! Many homeowners want the convenience of a side-by-side fridge but worry it will stick out too far and ruin their kitchen’s clean lines. Finding a counter-depth model that fits perfectly can feel like a puzzle, with so many features and sizes to consider.
This guide is here to take the guesswork out of choosing a counter-depth side-by-side refrigerator. We’ll explore what makes these fridges special and help you understand the key things to look for. By the end, you’ll feel confident in picking a fridge that not only keeps your food fresh but also makes your kitchen look amazing. Let’s dive in and find the perfect fit for your home!
Our Top 5 Counter Depth Side By Side Refrigerator Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Counter Depth Side By Side Refrigerator Detailed Reviews
1. Hamilton Beach HBF2064 20.6 cu ft Counter Depth Full Size Refrigerator
Rating: 9.0/10
The Hamilton Beach HBF2064 20.6 cu ft Counter Depth Full Size Refrigerator is a stylish and practical addition to any kitchen. Its stainless steel finish looks great. This fridge is designed to make your life easier.
What We Like:
- It has a large 20.6 cu ft capacity, which is plenty of room for a big family’s groceries.
- The side-by-side doors help you keep your fresh and frozen foods neatly organized and easy to find.
- You can easily control the temperature with the digital display inside the door.
- The extra-large door bins can hold gallons of drinks, saving space inside.
- Bright LED lights inside make it easy to see everything, even in the back.
- Its counter-depth design means it sits flush with your cabinets, giving your kitchen a sleek, built-in look.
- Delivery and installation services are available in some areas, taking the hassle out of setting it up.
What Could Be Improved:
- The digital display is located inside the refrigerator, which might be less convenient for some users than an external display.
- Haul-away services are only available in select locations.
This Hamilton Beach refrigerator offers a great combination of style, space, and smart features. It’s a solid choice for families looking to upgrade their kitchen.
2. Kenmore 36″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Freezer – Accela Chill
Rating: 8.8/10
The Kenmore 36″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Freezer is a stylish and practical addition to any kitchen. Its counter-depth design saves space, while the generous 20 cu. ft. capacity holds plenty of food for families and entertaining. The sleek fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish looks great and is easy to clean. This refrigerator also boasts smart features to keep your food fresh and your drinks cool.
What We Like:
- The counter-depth design fits perfectly in most kitchens.
- 20 cu. ft. of space is plenty for groceries.
- Accela Chill quickly cools new food.
- The multi-flow air system keeps food fresh on all shelves.
- The water and ice dispenser offers filtered water and ice.
- Adjustable glass shelves make storage easy.
- ENERGY STAR certification means it saves energy.
- Fingerprint-resistant finish stays looking clean.
- Bright LED lighting helps you see everything inside.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might prefer a larger capacity for very big families.
- The ice maker could be faster for heavy ice users.
This Kenmore refrigerator offers a great balance of style, functionality, and energy efficiency. It’s a solid choice for upgrading your kitchen.
3. Hamilton Beach HBF1558 15.6 cu ft Counter Depth Full Size Refrigerator
Rating: 9.4/10
The Hamilton Beach HBF1558 15.6 cu ft Counter Depth Full Size Refrigerator offers a sleek stainless steel finish and a practical side-by-side door design. This refrigerator is built to handle the demands of a busy household, providing ample space for all your groceries.
What We Like:
- The 15.6 cu ft capacity is large enough for any family.
- Extra-large door bins hold gallon-sized items easily.
- A clear digital display lets you control settings quickly.
- The side-by-side doors help you organize and find food fast.
- You can customize shelf height and placement for your needs.
- A bright interior light makes spotting items simple.
- Delivery and haul-away options are available for convenience.
What Could Be Improved:
- The digital display is mounted inside, which might be less convenient for some users.
- “Counter depth” can sometimes mean slightly less internal space than a traditional full-size fridge, despite the cubic footage.
This Hamilton Beach refrigerator is a solid choice for families needing dependable storage and easy organization. Its thoughtful features aim to make your kitchen life simpler.
4. Forno Salerno 36″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator and Freezer with 20 Cubic Ft.- Stainless Steel French Door Built-In Ice Maker Fridge
Rating: 9.1/10
The Forno Salerno 36″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator and Freezer is a stylish and spacious addition to any kitchen. Its French door design and stainless steel finish offer a modern look, while the ample 20 cubic feet of storage keeps all your groceries fresh and organized. This fridge is packed with smart features to make your life easier.
What We Like:
- Plenty of space for fresh food with 13.48 cubic feet of fridge capacity, featuring adjustable shelves and crisper drawers.
- The freezer offers a generous 6.53 cubic feet of storage with two drawers and door shelves.
- A built-in ice maker and water dispenser add convenience.
- Smart temperature control keeps food at the perfect temperature.
- Useful modes like child lock, vacation, and Sabbath mode are included.
- Interior LED lighting makes it easy to see everything.
- The soft alert for an open door is a helpful safety feature.
- It offers both solid and crushed ice options.
- The E-star energy rating is good for your electricity bill.
What Could Be Improved:
- The description mentions a “soft alert sound” for the freezer, but doesn’t specify how loud or noticeable it is.
- While it has a fast freeze setting for the refrigerator, it’s not explicitly mentioned for the freezer.
This Forno Salerno refrigerator is a smart choice for families needing a reliable and feature-rich appliance. It combines good looks with practical functionality for everyday use.
5. 27 cu. ft. Side by Side Smart Refrigerator w/InstaView and Craft Ice in PrintProof Stainless Steel
Rating: 8.9/10
Meet the 27 cu. ft. Side by Side Smart Refrigerator w/InstaView and Craft Ice in PrintProof Stainless Steel – it’s a fantastic addition to any kitchen! This fridge offers a huge amount of space, perfect for storing all your family’s groceries. The InstaView feature lets you peek inside without opening the door, saving energy. Plus, it makes cool, round Craft Ice for your drinks. The PrintProof stainless steel finish looks sleek and is easy to wipe clean.
What We Like:
- Generous 27 cu. ft. capacity holds a lot of food.
- InstaView door is a neat trick to see what’s inside.
- Craft Ice maker adds a fun touch to beverages.
- PrintProof stainless steel resists fingerprints, keeping it looking clean.
- Smart features connect to your phone for convenience.
- “Great tools at a great price” – you get a lot for your money.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users found the initial setup of smart features a bit tricky.
- The Craft Ice maker can be slower than traditional ice makers.
- While the price is great, the initial investment is still significant.
This refrigerator is a smart buy for families looking for space, modern features, and a stylish look without breaking the bank. You’ll love how it makes your kitchen life easier.
Choosing the Right Counter-Depth Side-by-Side Refrigerator
Counter-depth side-by-side refrigerators offer a sleek, built-in look for your kitchen. They fit snugly against your cabinets, creating a seamless appearance that many homeowners love. Unlike their standard-depth counterparts, these fridges don’t stick out as far, giving your kitchen a more spacious feel.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for a counter-depth side-by-side refrigerator, keep these important features in mind:
- Capacity: Think about how much food you typically store. Counter-depth models are often a bit shallower inside than standard ones. Measure your space to ensure the refrigerator will fit. Look at the cubic feet to understand the storage volume.
- Adjustable Shelving: This is a big help! Adjustable shelves let you move them around to fit taller items like milk jugs or large platters. It makes organizing your food much easier.
- Door-in-Door Access: Some models have a small, quick-access door on the refrigerator side. This lets you grab frequently used items like drinks or condiments without opening the main door. This saves energy and keeps your main compartment colder.
- Water and Ice Dispenser: Most side-by-side refrigerators come with an ice and water dispenser built into the door. Check if it dispenses cubed and crushed ice, and if the water filter is easy to replace.
- Smart Features: Some refrigerators connect to your Wi-Fi. You can control temperature, get alerts, or even see inside your fridge from your phone. This is a nice perk for tech-savvy households.
- Energy Efficiency: Look for the ENERGY STAR label. These refrigerators use less electricity, which saves you money on your energy bills and is better for the environment.
Important Materials
The materials used in your refrigerator affect its durability and appearance.
- Stainless Steel: This is a very popular choice. Stainless steel is strong, looks modern, and is generally easy to clean. However, it can show fingerprints, so some models have a smudge-resistant finish.
- Black Stainless Steel: This offers a darker, more dramatic look. It can also be more resistant to fingerprints than traditional stainless steel.
- White or Black Enamel: These are classic finishes. They are usually more affordable and resist scratches well. They can be a good choice if you prefer a simpler look or have a tighter budget.
- Interior Shelving: Glass shelves are common. They are easy to wipe clean. Some shelves are spill-proof, meaning they catch any liquid that might drip.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a refrigerator perform better or worse over time.
- Build Quality: A well-built refrigerator feels sturdy. Doors should close smoothly, and drawers should slide easily. This often comes down to the brand and the price point. Higher-end models usually have better construction.
- Compressor Type: A good compressor is the heart of your refrigerator. Inverter compressors are quieter and more energy-efficient than traditional ones. They also help maintain a more consistent temperature, which keeps your food fresher for longer.
- Cooling System: Dual-zone cooling systems are excellent. They allow the refrigerator and freezer compartments to have separate temperature controls. This prevents odors from transferring between the two and ensures optimal storage conditions for different types of food.
- Noise Level: Some refrigerators can be quite loud. Look for models that advertise quiet operation or check reviews for comments on noise. A quiet refrigerator is a big plus, especially in open-plan homes.
- Durability of Dispenser Components: The ice maker and water dispenser can sometimes be weak points. Read reviews to see if these parts tend to break or malfunction in certain models.
User Experience and Use Cases
Counter-depth side-by-side refrigerators are ideal for a variety of situations.
- Small to Medium Kitchens: Their slim profile makes them perfect for kitchens where space is a concern. They provide ample storage without overwhelming the room.
- Modern Kitchen Designs: If you’re aiming for a sleek, integrated look, a counter-depth model is a great choice. It blends in with your cabinetry.
- Families Who Need Organized Storage: The side-by-side layout makes it easy to see and access both fresh and frozen foods. This is helpful for busy families who want to grab items quickly.
- Individuals or Couples: If you don’t need massive amounts of storage, a counter-depth model offers a good balance of capacity and style.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How much space do I really need for a counter-depth refrigerator?
A: You need enough space for the refrigerator itself, plus a little extra room for ventilation. The manufacturer’s manual will tell you the exact clearance needed behind and on the sides. Even though it’s counter-depth, it still needs to breathe!
Q: Will a counter-depth refrigerator hold as much as a standard one?
A: Generally, no. Counter-depth models are shallower inside. They offer less cubic footage for storage compared to standard-depth refrigerators of the same width. You trade some storage space for a more streamlined look.
Q: Are counter-depth refrigerators more expensive?
A: Often, yes. The design and engineering required to create a sleeker, flush-mount appliance can make them cost more than standard-depth models. You’re paying for the aesthetic and the space-saving design.
Q: How do I clean the stainless steel finish on my refrigerator?
A: For most stainless steel, use a soft cloth with warm water and a mild dish soap. Wipe in the direction of the grain. For smudge-resistant finishes, follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions, as they may require specific cleaners.
Q: What is the difference between a counter-depth and a built-in refrigerator?
A: A counter-depth refrigerator is designed to sit flush with your cabinets, appearing built-in. A true built-in refrigerator is designed to be fully integrated into your cabinetry, often with custom panels to match. Built-ins are typically more expensive and offer a more seamless look.
Q: How often should I replace the water filter?
A: Most manufacturers recommend replacing the water filter every six months. However, this can vary depending on your water quality and how often you use the dispenser. Some refrigerators will alert you when it’s time to change the filter.
Q: Can I install a counter-depth refrigerator myself?
A: While some basic installation can be done by a handy homeowner, connecting the water line for the ice maker and dispenser is often best left to a professional plumber to avoid leaks.
Q: What are the advantages of a side-by-side refrigerator?
A: Side-by-side models offer easy access to both fresh and frozen foods at eye level. They are great for organization because you can see what you have in both sections clearly.
Q: What are the disadvantages of a side-by-side refrigerator?
A: The main disadvantage is that the compartments can be narrower, making it difficult to store wide items like large pizza boxes or platters. Also, the freezer compartment can feel a bit cramped.
Q: How do I ensure my counter-depth refrigerator doesn’t stick out past my cabinets?
A: Measure your cabinet depth carefully. Counter-depth refrigerators are designed to be about the same depth as standard kitchen cabinets (usually around 24 inches). When you shop, look at the “product depth” specification, and make sure it’s close to your cabinet depth, excluding the door handle.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.