Imagine opening your refrigerator door and finding everything perfectly organized, from crisp vegetables to your favorite frozen treats. Sounds great, right? But when it’s time to buy a new side-by-side refrigerator, the choices can feel overwhelming. You want a fridge that works well and lasts a long time, but knowing which one is best can be a real puzzle.
You might be wondering, “Which brands are reliable?” or “What features are actually worth the money?” It’s easy to get lost in all the different models and technical jargon. That’s where Consumer Reports comes in. They test refrigerators thoroughly to give you honest opinions.
In this post, we’ll dive into what Consumer Reports says about side-by-side refrigerators. You’ll learn about the top-rated models, common problems to watch out for, and what makes a refrigerator truly stand out. By the end, you’ll feel much more confident about picking the perfect side-by-side fridge for your kitchen.
Our Top 5 Side By Side Refrigerator Consumer Reports Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Side By Side Refrigerator Consumer Reports Detailed Reviews
1. Avanti RMS551SS Mini Fridge Compact Side Refrigerator with Freezer for Home Office or Dorm
Rating: 9.3/10
The Avanti RMS551SS Mini Fridge is a compact refrigerator with a freezer, perfect for smaller spaces like offices, dorm rooms, or bedrooms. It offers a 5.5 cubic foot capacity and a stylish stainless steel finish.
What We Like:
- The side-by-side design gives you both fridge and freezer space in one unit.
- It’s a good size for apartments, dorms, or even as an extra fridge for drinks.
- The freezer has two shelves, making it easy to organize your frozen items.
- The temperature control lets you set how cold you want your food and drinks.
- The stainless steel look is modern and will match most decor.
- It uses energy-efficient cooling to keep things fresh.
What Could Be Improved:
- The compact size means it might not hold a lot of groceries for a whole family.
- The freezer section might be a bit small for large frozen meals or bulk purchases.
This Avanti mini fridge is a smart choice for anyone needing a reliable and good-looking way to keep food and drinks cold. It fits well in tight spots and offers useful features for everyday use.
2. Forno Salerno 36″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator and Freezer with 20 Cubic Ft.- Stainless Steel French Door Built-In Ice Maker Fridge
Rating: 9.3/10
The Forno Salerno 36″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator and Freezer is a stylish and functional addition to any kitchen, offering a generous 20 cubic feet of storage in a sleek stainless steel French door design. This built-in unit boasts an integrated ice maker, ensuring you always have ice on hand. Its thoughtful features and ample capacity make it a practical choice for keeping your food fresh and organized.
What We Like:
- Spacious fresh food zone with adjustable shelves and crisper drawers provides plenty of room for groceries.
- Two convenient freezer drawers and side-door shelves make organizing frozen items easy.
- An intelligent chip temperature control system keeps food at the perfect temperature.
- Includes useful modes like child lock, vacation mode, and Sabbath mode for added convenience.
- Interior LED lighting illuminates the contents, making it easy to find what you need.
- The built-in ice maker offers both solid and crushed ice options.
- Frost-free design means no more manual defrosting.
- E-star energy rating helps save on electricity bills.
What Could Be Improved:
- The soft alert for an open door could be louder or more noticeable.
- While the capacity is good, some larger families might wish for even more freezer space.
This Forno Salerno refrigerator is a well-rounded appliance that balances style, convenience, and essential features. It’s a solid choice for families looking for reliable refrigeration and freezing capabilities.
3. LG LRSDS2706S 27 Cu. Ft. Stainless Side-By-Side Door-in-Door Refrigerator with Craft Ice – OPEN BOX
Rating: 9.1/10
This LG LRSDS2706S 27 Cu. Ft. Stainless Side-By-Side Door-in-Door Refrigerator with Craft Ice – OPEN BOX is a fantastic appliance that can help organize your kitchen and keep your food fresh. It’s a large refrigerator, so it’s good for families or people who like to stock up on groceries. The stainless steel finish looks sleek and modern in any kitchen.
What We Like:
- The Door-in-Door feature is super handy. You can grab frequently used items like drinks or snacks without opening the whole fridge. This saves energy and keeps things colder inside.
- Craft Ice is a really cool bonus! It makes slow-melting round ice cubes that are perfect for drinks. Your beverages stay colder longer without getting watered down.
- It’s a spacious 27 cubic feet, so you have plenty of room for all your groceries, from big platters to small jars.
- The side-by-side design makes it easy to see and reach both the refrigerator and freezer sections.
- This is an open box item, which means you can get a great deal on a high-quality refrigerator.
What Could Be Improved:
- Being an open box item, there might be minor cosmetic imperfections, though this doesn’t affect how the fridge works.
- For some, the price, even as an open box deal, might still be an investment.
This LG refrigerator offers a lot of great features for a more convenient kitchen experience. It’s a smart buy for those looking for style and functionality.
4. Gallery 25.6 Cu. Ft. 36″ Standard Depth Side by Side Refrigerator in Smudge-Proof Stainless Steel
Rating: 9.1/10
The Gallery 25.6 Cu. Ft. 36″ Standard Depth Side by Side Refrigerator in Smudge-Proof Stainless Steel offers a generous amount of space for your groceries. Its sleek stainless steel finish resists fingerprints, keeping it looking clean. This refrigerator is designed to fit seamlessly into your kitchen, providing convenient access to your food.
What We Like:
- The 25.6 cubic feet of space holds a lot of food.
- The smudge-proof stainless steel looks great and is easy to wipe clean.
- Side-by-side doors make it easy to see and grab what you need.
- It has a standard depth, so it fits well in most kitchens.
- The large capacity is excellent for families.
What Could Be Improved:
- The description provided seems to be for a BBQ and Grill station, not a refrigerator. This is confusing.
- The refrigerator’s “RV/TRAILER COMPATIBLE” feature with a mounting bracket is highly unusual and likely an error in the product information. Refrigerators of this size are not typically designed for RVs.
- More details about specific features like ice makers, water dispensers, or adjustable shelves would be helpful.
- The energy efficiency rating is not mentioned.
While the refrigerator itself appears to offer good storage and a nice finish, the provided feature about RV compatibility is very confusing and likely incorrect. We recommend double-checking the product details before making a purchase.
Your Smart Guide to Buying a Side-By-Side Refrigerator
Choosing a new refrigerator can feel like a big decision. A side-by-side refrigerator is a popular choice because it puts both your fridge and freezer at eye level. This makes it easy to find what you need. We’re here to help you pick the best one for your kitchen.
1. Key Features to Look For
Space and Organization
- **Adjustable Shelves:** These let you move shelves up or down. You can fit tall bottles or big containers easily.
- **Gallon Door Bins:** These are extra-deep bins on the refrigerator door. They hold gallon-sized milk jugs and other large drinks.
- **Crisper Drawers:** These drawers keep fruits and vegetables fresh. Some have humidity controls to keep things extra crisp.
- **Full-Width Pantry Drawer:** This is a special drawer for deli items or snacks. It often has its own temperature control.
Cooling and Freshness
- **Dual Evaporators:** Some refrigerators have two separate cooling systems. One cools the fridge, and the other cools the freezer. This helps keep food fresher for longer.
- **Temperature Controls:** Look for refrigerators with digital temperature controls. You can set precise temperatures for the fridge and freezer.
- **Air Filters:** Some models have air filters. These remove odors and help keep your food smelling fresh.
Convenience and Extras
- **Ice and Water Dispenser:** This is a common feature. It gives you ice and filtered water right from the door. Some dispensers have built-in purifiers.
- **Door Alarm:** This sounds an alert if the refrigerator door is left open too long. It saves energy and prevents food spoilage.
- **Smart Features:** Some refrigerators connect to Wi-Fi. You can control them with your phone or get alerts about temperature changes.
2. Important Materials
The materials used in a refrigerator affect its look, durability, and how easy it is to clean. Most side-by-side refrigerators have stainless steel exteriors. Stainless steel looks sleek and modern. It resists fingerprints and smudges better than other finishes. Plastic is used for shelves and drawers inside the refrigerator. Look for sturdy, BPA-free plastics.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What Makes a Refrigerator Great
- **Good Insulation:** This keeps the cold air inside and the warm air outside. It makes the refrigerator more energy-efficient.
- **Quiet Operation:** A good refrigerator runs quietly. You won’t even notice it’s on.
- **Even Cooling:** The refrigerator should cool food evenly throughout. No more cold spots or warm areas.
- **Durable Components:** Hinges, drawers, and seals should feel strong and last a long time.
What Can Make a Refrigerator Less Ideal
- **Noisy Motor:** A loud compressor can be annoying.
- **Uneven Temperatures:** If some parts are too cold and others are too warm, food can spoil faster.
- **Flimsy Shelves:** Shelves that bend or break easily are a problem.
- **Poor Sealing:** Leaky seals let cold air escape, making the refrigerator work harder.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
A side-by-side refrigerator is great for families. The layout makes it easy for everyone to grab snacks or drinks. Kids can reach the freezer for ice cream. Adults can find their favorite drinks on the door shelves. The freezer section offers good organization for frozen meals and meats. People who like to keep their kitchen tidy will appreciate the organized shelves and drawers. If you often entertain, the spacious refrigerator section can hold platters and drinks for parties.
For small kitchens, a counter-depth model looks more built-in and saves space. If you have a large family, a model with extra-large capacity is a good choice. People who want to reduce food waste will benefit from features like crisper drawers and air filters.
Consumer Reports tests refrigerators thoroughly. They check cooling performance, energy use, and how easy they are to use. Reading their reviews can give you a good idea of how a refrigerator performs in real life. Look for models that Consumer Reports rates highly for reliability and user satisfaction.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best size for a side-by-side refrigerator?
A: The best size depends on your family size and kitchen space. For a family of four, a refrigerator around 22-25 cubic feet is usually good. Measure your kitchen opening before you buy.
Q: Are side-by-side refrigerators energy efficient?
A: Many newer side-by-side refrigerators are very energy efficient. Look for the ENERGY STAR label. This means they meet strict energy-saving standards.
Q: How much does a good side-by-side refrigerator cost?
A: Prices can range from $1,000 to $3,000 or more. Basic models are less expensive. High-end models with many features cost more.
Q: Is stainless steel hard to keep clean?
A: Stainless steel can show fingerprints. However, many modern stainless steel finishes are fingerprint-resistant. A soft cloth and mild cleaner usually work well.
Q: What is a “counter-depth” refrigerator?
A: A counter-depth refrigerator is shallower than a standard refrigerator. It sits flush with your kitchen counters for a built-in look.
Q: Do ice makers in refrigerators break often?
A: Ice makers can sometimes have issues. However, newer models are generally more reliable. Some people choose to turn off the ice maker if they don’t use it often.
Q: How long should a side-by-side refrigerator last?
A: A well-maintained side-by-side refrigerator can last 10-15 years or even longer. Regular cleaning and proper use help it last.
Q: What is the difference between a side-by-side and a French door refrigerator?
A: In a side-by-side, the refrigerator is on one side and the freezer is on the other. In a French door refrigerator, there are two doors for the refrigerator on top, and a freezer drawer below.
Q: Is it worth buying an extended warranty?
A: It depends on the refrigerator and your comfort level. Some people find them helpful. Others prefer to save the money and use it for repairs if needed.
Q: How do I get the best temperature for my food?
A: For the refrigerator, aim for around 37°F (3°C). For the freezer, set it at 0°F (-18°C). Use a refrigerator thermometer to check the actual temperature.
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.