Imagine a kitchen where your refrigerator doesn’t stick out like a sore thumb, blocking pathways and making your space feel smaller. Does that sound like a dream? For many homeowners, fitting a refrigerator seamlessly into their kitchen design is a big challenge. You want a spacious fridge, but you also want a clean, modern look. This is where the “side by side counter depth refrigerator” comes in, offering a clever solution to a common design dilemma.
Choosing the right side by side counter depth refrigerator can feel overwhelming. There are so many brands, features, and price points to consider. You might worry about getting enough storage space or if it will truly look built-in. But don’t let the confusion stop you from creating the kitchen you’ve always wanted. This guide is here to help you cut through the noise and find the perfect fit for your home and your budget.
By the end of this post, you’ll understand exactly what makes a counter depth refrigerator so special. We’ll break down the key features to look for, explore the benefits of this style, and even offer tips on how to measure your space correctly. Get ready to discover how a side by side counter depth refrigerator can transform your kitchen from cluttered to chic, giving you both style and smart storage. Let’s dive in!
Our Top 5 Side By Side Counter Depth Refrigerator Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Side By Side Counter Depth Refrigerator Detailed Reviews
1. Kenmore 36″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Freezer – Accela Chill
Rating: 9.1/10
The Kenmore 36″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Freezer brings smart design and great features to your kitchen. Its sleek, fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish looks modern. This fridge offers a good amount of space and keeps your food fresh and cold.
What We Like:
- It’s a counter-depth model, so it fits nicely in your kitchen without sticking out too much.
- You get 20 cubic feet of space, which is plenty for most families and for storing food when you entertain guests.
- The Accela Chill feature quickly cools down new groceries.
- The Multi-Flow Air System makes sure the temperature is even on every shelf, keeping food fresh.
- You get easy access to clean, filtered water and ice (cubed or crushed) from the dispenser.
- The adjustable, edge-to-edge glass shelves are spill-proof and easy to clean.
- You can move the shelves around to fit taller items like jugs or large platters.
- It’s ENERGY STAR Certified, meaning it’s energy-efficient and can help save on your electricity bill.
- Bright LED lights make it easy to see everything inside, so no food gets lost in the back.
- The fingerprint-resistant finish means less time spent wiping down smudges.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it offers good capacity for its counter-depth design, very large families might find themselves wishing for a little more room.
- The ice maker, while convenient, is factory-installed and may not be as easily accessible for repair as some other models.
This Kenmore refrigerator is a solid choice for many kitchens. It balances style, functionality, and energy efficiency.
2. Hamilton Beach HBF2064 20.6 cu ft Counter Depth Full Size Refrigerator
Rating: 9.1/10
Meet the Hamilton Beach HBF2064 20.6 cu ft Counter Depth Full Size Refrigerator. This stainless steel beauty offers a spacious interior and a sleek, modern design that fits seamlessly into your kitchen. Its side-by-side doors make organization a breeze, and the counter-depth feature ensures it won’t stick out too far. It’s a great option for families who need plenty of storage and appreciate smart, user-friendly features.
What We Like:
- It has a LARGE CAPACITY of 20.6 Cu. Ft. This is perfect for a big family’s groceries.
- The SIDE-BY-SIDE DOOR DESIGN helps you keep fresh and frozen foods separate and easy to find.
- A DIGITAL DISPLAY lets you control the temperature easily from inside the fridge door.
- OVERSIZE DOOR BINS can hold gallons of drinks, saving shelf space.
- Bright LED INTERIOR LIGHTING makes it easy to see everything inside, even in the back.
- The COUNTER DEPTH design means it sits flush with your cabinets, looking neat and tidy.
- Convenient DELIVERY OPTIONS are available, including haul-away of your old fridge.
What Could Be Improved:
- The digital display is located inside the refrigerator door, which might require opening the door to make adjustments.
- While spacious, the 20.6 cu ft capacity might still feel a bit small for extremely large families or those who buy in bulk very often.
This Hamilton Beach refrigerator offers a fantastic blend of capacity, convenience, and style. It’s a solid choice for upgrading your kitchen and keeping your food fresh and organized.
3. Hamilton Beach HBF1558 15.6 cu ft Counter Depth Full Size Refrigerator
Rating: 9.5/10
Meet the Hamilton Beach HBF1558 15.6 cu ft Counter Depth Full Size Refrigerator, Side Doors, Stainless. This fridge offers a smart way to keep your food fresh and organized, fitting perfectly into your kitchen. Its sleek stainless steel finish looks great in any home, and the side-by-side doors make it easy to grab what you need.
What We Like:
- It has a large 15.6 cu ft capacity, which is great for families.
- The door bins are big enough for gallon-sized drinks.
- You can easily change the temperature with the digital display inside.
- The side-by-side doors help you see and find your food quickly.
- You can move shelves around to fit your needs.
- An interior light helps you find food in a flash.
- Delivery and setup options are available in some areas.
What Could Be Improved:
- The digital display is on the inside, which might be less convenient for some users.
- The 15.6 cu ft capacity might be too small for very large families or those who buy groceries in bulk.
This Hamilton Beach refrigerator is a solid choice for keeping your food organized and cool. Its practical features and stylish look make it a welcome addition to most kitchens.
4. LG 27 cu. ft. Side-by-Side Standard Depth Slim in Door Ice and Water Dispenser in PrintProof Stainless Steel Wi-Fi Enabled LS27T3230S
Rating: 8.8/10
The LG 27 cu. ft. Side-by-Side Standard Depth Slim in Door Ice and Water Dispenser in PrintProof Stainless Steel Wi-Fi Enabled LS27T3230S is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. It offers a generous 27 cubic feet of space, perfect for families and those who love to entertain. The slim door design saves precious kitchen real estate, and the PrintProof stainless steel finish resists fingerprints, keeping your appliance looking sleek. Plus, the Wi-Fi connectivity adds a modern touch, allowing you to control and monitor your refrigerator remotely.
What We Like:
- Ample 27 cu. ft. storage capacity holds plenty of groceries.
- Slim door design fits well in most kitchens.
- PrintProof stainless steel looks great and is easy to clean.
- In-door ice and water dispenser is super convenient.
- Wi-Fi enabled for smart home integration and remote control.
- Offers great tools at a great price, making it a smart buy.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the “standard depth” a bit less spacious than counter-depth models.
- While the price is great, advanced features might come with a slightly higher initial investment compared to very basic models.
This LG refrigerator truly delivers on its promise of providing excellent features without breaking the bank. It’s a smart, stylish, and functional choice for your home.
5. KoolMore KM-RERFDSS-18C 30-Inch and 18.5 cu. ft. Counter Depth French Refrigerator with Three Doors and Deep Freezer in Stainless-Steel
Rating: 9.3/10
The KoolMore KM-RERFDSS-18C is a stylish and practical 30-inch counter-depth French door refrigerator. Its sleek stainless-steel finish and 18.5 cubic feet of storage make it a great addition to any modern kitchen. This fridge offers easy access to your food with its three doors and a deep freezer, ensuring you have plenty of space for all your groceries.
What We Like:
- This refrigerator has a generous 18.5 cu. ft. capacity, fitting perfectly with your kitchen counters.
- It includes double crispers with humidity control to keep your produce fresh.
- You get plenty of storage with two large freezer drawers, six door bins, and adjustable glass shelves.
- The modern stainless-steel design looks great and matches other appliances.
- Its flat finish and easy-open handles add to its contemporary appeal.
- The double-flow cooling system and digital temperature control keep food evenly chilled.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the 18.5 cu. ft. capacity a bit small if they have a very large family.
- The stainless-steel surface may require regular cleaning to maintain its shine.
This KoolMore refrigerator offers smart storage and advanced cooling to keep your food at its best. It’s a solid choice for those seeking both style and functionality in their kitchen.
Your Guide to a Sleek Kitchen: Choosing a Side-by-Side Counter-Depth Refrigerator
Tired of a refrigerator that sticks out like a sore thumb? A side-by-side counter-depth refrigerator can give your kitchen a clean, built-in look. These fridges are designed to sit flush with your cabinets, making your kitchen feel more spacious and modern. Let’s explore what makes these refrigerators a great choice.
What to Look For: Key Features
1. Capacity and Layout
Side-by-side refrigerators divide fresh food and freezer space vertically. This means both sections are equally accessible. Think about how much food you usually store. Do you need more fridge space for produce or more freezer space for frozen meals? Look at the total cubic feet to get an idea of how much it can hold.
2. Smart Features and Technology
Many modern fridges come with cool tech. Some have Wi-Fi connectivity, letting you control settings from your phone. Others have advanced temperature controls to keep food fresher longer. You might also find features like water filters and ice makers built right in.
3. Energy Efficiency
Look for the ENERGY STAR® label. This means the refrigerator uses less energy, which saves you money on your electricity bills and is better for the environment. Check the yellow EnergyGuide label for specific energy usage estimates.
4. Noise Level
Some refrigerators can be quite loud. If your kitchen is near a living area, consider models known for quiet operation. Manufacturers often list the decibel level, or you can look for reviews that mention noise.
Materials Matter
1. Exterior Finish
Stainless steel is popular for its modern look and durability. However, it can show fingerprints. Many stainless steel models now have a “fingerprint-resistant” coating. Other options include black stainless steel, white, or black finishes. Choose a finish that matches your kitchen appliances and is easy to clean.
2. Interior Shelving
Glass shelves are common and easy to wipe clean. Some shelves are adjustable, letting you customize the space. Look for spill-proof shelves that contain messes, making cleanup much simpler.
Quality Boosters and Reducers
1. Brand Reputation
Well-known brands often have a track record for reliability and good customer service. Research brands and read reviews to see what other users say about their experiences.
2. Build Quality
Feel the doors and drawers. Do they open and close smoothly? Are the materials inside sturdy? A well-built refrigerator will last longer and be more enjoyable to use.
3. Reviews and Ratings
Always check online reviews. They offer real-world insights into how a refrigerator performs. Look for consistent positive feedback on cooling, noise, and durability. Negative reviews can highlight potential problems to avoid.
User Experience and Use Cases
Counter-depth refrigerators are perfect for smaller kitchens or for anyone who wants a more streamlined look. They prevent the fridge from sticking out into your walkways. The side-by-side design is great for families because everyone can easily reach what they need. Kids can grab their own snacks from the fridge, and adults can easily access frozen items.
For those who like to entertain, the organized layout makes it simple to find ingredients for parties. The sleek design also enhances the overall aesthetic of your kitchen, making it a focal point rather than an obstruction.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What does “counter-depth” mean for a refrigerator?
A: “Counter-depth” means the refrigerator is designed to be as deep as your kitchen cabinets. This makes it sit flush with the cabinets, creating a built-in look.
Q: Are counter-depth refrigerators smaller inside?
A: Yes, counter-depth models are typically shallower than standard refrigerators. This means they might have less overall storage space, but the side-by-side layout still provides good organization.
Q: How much more do counter-depth refrigerators usually cost?
A: Counter-depth refrigerators can be more expensive than standard-depth models. This is because of the specialized design and often more advanced features.
Q: Are side-by-side refrigerators good at keeping food cold?
A: Most modern side-by-side refrigerators have excellent cooling systems. They maintain consistent temperatures to keep your food fresh and safe.
Q: Can I install a through-the-door ice and water dispenser on a counter-depth model?
A: Yes, many counter-depth side-by-side refrigerators come with through-the-door ice and water dispensers. This is a very popular feature.
Q: How do I measure my space for a counter-depth refrigerator?
A: Measure the width and height of the opening where the refrigerator will go. Also, measure the depth of your cabinets. Remember to leave a little extra space for ventilation at the back and sides.
Q: Are side-by-side refrigerators energy efficient?
A: Many side-by-side counter-depth refrigerators are ENERGY STAR® certified, meaning they are designed to be energy efficient.
Q: What is the average lifespan of a side-by-side counter-depth refrigerator?
A: With proper care and maintenance, a side-by-side counter-depth refrigerator can last between 10 to 20 years.
Q: How often should I replace the water filter?
A: Most manufacturers recommend replacing the water filter every 6 months, or sooner if you notice a change in water taste or flow.
Q: What are some common problems with side-by-side refrigerators?
A: Common issues can include ice maker malfunctions, freezer frost build-up, or cooling problems. Reading reviews can help you choose a model less prone to these issues.
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.