The best side by side counter depth refrigerators offer a seamless blend of functionality and sophisticated aesthetics, perfect for kitchens where space and style are paramount. These appliances are engineered to provide ample fresh and frozen food storage without protruding into your kitchen walkway, maintaining a clean, integrated look. Choosing the right model is crucial, as performance, energy efficiency, and feature sets can vary significantly, impacting everything from food preservation to your utility bills.
A hasty decision might lead to a unit that doesn’t meet your storage needs or compromises on vital cooling technology, ultimately costing you more in the long run. To help you navigate the options and secure superior cooling and convenient access, we present our curated selection of the top side by side counter-depth refrigerators currently available.
For those seeking space-saving integration, the best side by side counter depth refrigerators offer a blend of capacity and seamless kitchen aesthetics. Models like the Frigidaire Professional 36 in. 22.3 cu.
ft. Counter-Depth Side-by-Side and the GE Profile 25.3 cu.
ft. Side by Side Refrigerator in Fingerprint focus on organized storage with internal and external ice/water dispensers, ensuring functionality without protruding.
Best Side by Side Counter Depth Refrigerators at a Glance
| Image | Product | Buy |
|---|---|---|
Best Pick 1  | Frigidaire Professional 36 in. 22.3 cu. ft. Counter Depth Side-by-Side Best for: Professional kitchens | Check Price |
Best Pick 2  | GE PROFILE 21.9 cu. ft. Counter Depth French Door Refrigerator Best for: Modern kitchens | Check Price |
Best Pick 3  | Whirlpool 33 Inch Freestanding Side by Side Refrigerator with 21.72 Best for: Standard kitchens | Check Price |
Best Pick 4  | GE 25.3 cu. ft. Side by Side Refrigerator in Fingerprint Best for: Family households | Check Price |
Best Pick 5  | GE GWE19JYLFS 18.6 cu. ft. Counter Depth French Door Refrigerator Best for: Smaller kitchens | Check Price |
How We Picked
To identify the best side by side counter depth refrigerators, we prioritized build quality, real-world performance, and durability. We examined specifications for features like adjustable shelving and capacity, from the Frigidaire Professional to GE Profile models. Standout features such as internal water dispensers and ENERGY STAR certification were key.
Units with inconsistent reported performance or questionable build elements were ruled out, ensuring our recommendations offer excellent value and lasting dependability for any kitchen.
What Most Buyers Get Wrong
Accurate Counter Depth Measurement Matters
When shopping for counter-depth side-by-side refrigerators, understanding exact dimensions is critical. This isn’t just about the appliance’s width and height, but its depth relative to your cabinetry for that seamless, built-in look. Measure your existing cabinet opening and subtract the depth of your current refrigerator door swing to ensure clearance.
The Frigidaire Professional 36 in. 22.3 cu.
ft. and GE Profile models like the 21.9 cu. ft.
French Door are designed with this flush fit in mind, preventing doors from obstructing walkways.
Optimizing Interior Space in Narrower Units
Counter-depth side-by-side refrigerators, by their nature, can trade some interior cubic footage for their sleeker exterior profile. Look for smart storage solutions like adjustable shelves and gallon door bins, features found in the Whirlpool 33 Inch Freestanding model and GE 25.3 cu. ft.
side-by-side. Strategically placed LED lighting, as seen in the GE GYE22GYNFS model, also enhances usability by making all items visible, reducing the chance of forgotten food and maximizing the perceived space.
1. Frigidaire Professional 36 in. 22.3 cu. ft. Counter Depth Side-by-Side
Best for: Spacious organization for busy families.
With 22.3 cu ft of organized storage, including 14.3 cu ft for fresh food and 8 cu ft for frozen items, this Frigidaire Professional model offers ample space in a counter-depth footprint. Its ENERGY STAR certification and ADA compliance ensure efficient operation and accessibility for all users.
This side-by-side refrigerator features 3 adjustable shelves and 4 door shelves in the refrigerator compartment, plus 6 racks in the freezer, facilitating customized organization. The EvenTemp cooling system maintains consistent temperatures, while the external ice and water dispenser provides chilled, filtered beverages on demand.
Pros
- 22.3 cu ft total capacity for groceries
- External ice and water dispenser for convenience
- ENERGY STAR certified for efficiency
- ADA compliant design for accessibility
Cons
- No adjustable temperature control for specific compartments.
This refrigerator is ideal for households seeking efficient, accessible storage. Its counter-depth design ensures a seamless kitchen look, perfect for those who need organized access to fresh and frozen goods.
2. GE PROFILE 21.9 cu. ft. Counter Depth French Door Refrigerator
Best for: Modern kitchen aesthetic, internal water access.
The GE PROFILE French Door refrigerator boasts a 21.9 cu ft capacity, fitting seamlessly into cabinetry with its counter-depth design for a built-in appearance. An internal water dispenser offers filtered water with a single touch, enhancing convenience without disrupting the sleek exterior.
Featuring 5 adjustable shelves and 4 racks, this refrigerator allows for flexible storage of groceries. The factory-installed ice maker with water filtration system ensures a consistent supply of purified ice, complementing the unit’s overall design for everyday use.
Pros
- 21.9 cu ft capacity for ample storage
- Internal water dispenser for filtered hydration
- Adjustable temperature control for food preservation
- Factory-installed ice maker with filtration
Cons
- No external ice dispenser available.
This French door model is well-suited for those prioritizing a clean, modern kitchen aesthetic. It offers convenient internal water access and flexible storage for daily needs.
3. Whirlpool 33 Inch Freestanding Side by Side Refrigerator with 21.72
Best for: Compact, adaptable storage for smaller kitchens.
Boasting 21.72 cu ft of capacity, this Whirlpool 33-inch freestanding side-by-side refrigerator provides generous storage with adaptable shelving. Its compact design makes it an excellent fit for kitchens where space is at a premium, ensuring you don’t compromise on storage.
This model offers 6 adjustable shelves and roomy gallon door bins to accommodate various item sizes, from tall bottles to bulky cartons. The adaptive defrost system intelligently manages cooling cycles, while bright LED lighting illuminates the interior for easy food visibility.
Pros
- 21.72 cu ft spacious capacity
- Adjustable shelves for customizable storage
- Adaptive defrost for energy efficiency
- Bright LED interior lighting for visibility
Cons
- Icemaker is optional and sold separately.
This Whirlpool refrigerator is perfect for individuals or small families seeking dependable, adaptable storage. Its 33-inch width makes it a practical choice for kitchens with limited space.
4. GE 25.3 cu. ft. Side by Side Refrigerator in Fingerprint
Best for: Large capacity, fingerprint-resistant finish.
With a substantial 25.3 cu ft total capacity, this GE side-by-side refrigerator offers 16.1 cu ft for fresh food and 9.25 cu ft for frozen items, supporting extensive grocery storage. Its fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish ensures a clean, modern appearance in any kitchen.
This unit features 3 adjustable shelves and 4 door bins within the refrigerator for organized stowing of various items. An external ice and water dispenser provides convenient access to chilled drinks, while LED interior lighting enhances visibility of contents.
Pros
- 25.3 cu ft total capacity for bulk storage
- External ice and water dispenser
- Fingerprint-resistant stainless steel
- ENERGY STAR certified for lower energy use
Cons
- Features manual defrost system, requiring periodic manual intervention.
This GE refrigerator is an excellent option for families needing ample food storage with a polished look. The fingerprint-resistant finish makes it ideal for busy households that appreciate easy maintenance.
5. GE GWE19JYLFS 18.6 cu. ft. Counter Depth French Door Refrigerator
Best for: Compact design, internal water dispenser.
Fitting nearly flush with surrounding cabinetry, the GE GWE19JYLFS 18.6 cu ft French door refrigerator offers a compact, built-in aesthetic. Its internal water dispenser delivers filtered water with a single touch, providing convenient hydration without external protrusions.
This model features 4 adjustable glass shelves and 4 door bins for flexible organization of groceries. The frost-free defrost system and adjustable temperature control help maintain optimal conditions for food preservation, ensuring freshness.
Pros
- 18.6 cu ft capacity in a compact size
- Internal water dispenser for filtered water
- Counter-depth design for a built-in look
- Adjustable temperature control for freshness
Cons
- No external ice dispenser is included.
This GE French door refrigerator is ideal for smaller kitchens or apartments where maximizing space and achieving a sleek look are priorities. Its internal dispenser offers convenient access to filtered water.
6. GE 20.6 cu. ft. Counter Depth French Door Refrigerator in
Best for: Counter-depth, twin cooling for optimal freshness.
The GE 20.6 cu ft counter-depth French door refrigerator features a sleek stainless steel finish and a capacity ideal for families. Its TwinChill evaporators create separate climate zones for fresh food and the freezer, ensuring optimal temperature and humidity balance.
This refrigerator offers 5 adjustable shelves and 7 door shelves, providing abundant organized storage. An internal water dispenser delivers fresh, filtered water directly inside, maintaining the unit’s streamlined exterior appeal for a clean kitchen look.
Pros
- 21.0 cu ft capacity for family needs
- TwinChill evaporators for dual climate zones
- Internal water dispenser for convenience
- Counter-depth design for integrated style
Cons
- Door ajar alarm can be sensitive.
This GE French door refrigerator is a great choice for families seeking spacious, well-preserved food storage in a stylish, counter-depth design. The dual evaporators help keep groceries fresher for longer.
7. GE Profile 25.3 cu. ft. Side by Side Refrigerator in
Best for: Generous capacity, external dispenser, energy efficient.
This GE Profile 25.3 cu ft side-by-side refrigerator offers substantial storage with adjustable shelves and door bins for organized access to fresh and frozen foods. It’s ENERGY STAR certified, using an estimated 643 kWh annually to help reduce energy consumption and costs.
The spacious interior includes 4 adjustable shelves and 4 door bins to easily accommodate groceries. Its convenient external water and ice dispenser provides cold filtered water, plus cubed or crushed ice, right from the front door without needing to open the appliance.
Pros
- 25.3 cu ft total capacity for large households
- External water and ice dispenser
- ENERGY STAR certified for efficiency
- Adjustable temperature control for food freshness
Cons
- No automatic defrost, requiring manual defrost.
This GE Profile refrigerator is perfect for large families prioritizing convenience and energy efficiency. The ample storage and external dispenser make it a practical, high-capacity solution for busy kitchens.
8. GE Profile PVD28BYNFS 36″ 4-Door French Door Refrigerator with 27.6
Best for: Spacious 4-door, external dispenser, advanced cooling.
With a large 27.9 cu ft capacity, the GE Profile PVD28BYNFS 36-inch 4-door French door refrigerator provides spacious interior storage ideal for high-volume households. Its external water and ice dispenser offers convenient access to cold filtered water, plus cubed and crushed ice from the front door.
This model includes 4 glass shelves, 6 door shelves, and 4 racks for flexible organization of various food items. Advanced multi-air flow cooling technology ensures consistent temperatures throughout the refrigerator, preserving freshness efficiently.
Pros
- 27.9 cu ft total capacity for large families
- External water and ice dispenser
- Multi-Air Flow system for consistent cooling
- Adjustable temperature control for optimal storage
Cons
- Depth with door open extends to 48.38 inches, requiring ample clearance.
This GE Profile 4-door French door refrigerator is an excellent choice for large families needing extensive, flexible storage and convenient ice and water access. Its advanced cooling system ensures food stays fresh.
9. Frigidaire FRQG1721AV 17.4 Cubic Foot Refrigerator, Silver
Best for: Compact French door, adjustable shelving, LED lighting.
The Frigidaire FRQG1721AV 17.4 cu ft refrigerator features adjustable glass shelves and galon-size door bins, allowing for customizable organization of groceries. Its silver finish and French door design offer a sleek look, fitting well in various kitchen designs.
This model provides 3 shelves, 2 crisper drawers for fruits and vegetables, and 2 door shelves, totaling 17.4 cu ft of storage. TwinTech dual evaporators work to preserve freshness, supported by bright LED lighting that illuminates the interior for easy item retrieval.
Pros
- 17.4 cu ft capacity in a compact format
- Adjustable glass shelves for customization
- TwinTech dual evaporators for freshness preservation
- LED interior lighting for visibility
Cons
- Has a lower voltage requirement of 110V, which may require specific electrical setup.
This Frigidaire refrigerator is ideal for smaller households or kitchens needing compact, organized French door storage. The adjustable shelves and crisper drawers cater to specific food storage needs.
10. GE GYE22GYNFS 36″ French Door Counter Depth Refrigerator with 22.1
Best for: Sleek built-in look, internal dispenser, fingerprint resistant.
The GE GYE22GYNFS 36-inch French door refrigerator provides a sleek, built-in look with its counter-depth design, fitting seamlessly into cabinetry. Resisting fingerprints and smudges, its exterior maintains a clean, polished appearance, perfect for modern kitchens.
This refrigerator offers 22.1 cu ft of capacity with 5 adjustable shelves and 6 door shelves, enabling flexible organization of groceries. The internal water dispenser delivers cold, filtered water with a simple touch, enhancing convenience without adding external hardware.
Pros
- 22.1 cu ft capacity with counter-depth design
- Resists fingerprints and smudges
- Internal water dispenser for filtered water
- Adjustable temperature control for optimal freshness
Cons
- The hot gas defrost system can be less energy efficient than frost-free.
This GE French door refrigerator is an excellent choice for homeowners seeking a modern, built-in appearance and convenient internal water access. Its fingerprint-resistant finish ensures a consistently clean look.
Internal vs. External Ice & Water Access
When selecting a side by side counter depth refrigerator, its fundamental layout – particularly the dispenser system – dictates your daily usage far more than subtle cubic footage variations or cosmetic finishes. The critical decision point boils down to whether you prioritize a pristine, uninterrupted facade or immediate, external access to chilled water and ice.
Models like the Frigidaire Professional 36 in. 22.3 cu. ft.
Counter Depth Side-by-Side and the GE 25.3 cu. ft.
Side by Side Refrigerator in Fingerprint offer external dispensers, a convenience that proves invaluable for families and high-volume households needing quick hydration and ice refills. This external access means zero interruption to your workflow; grab a glass of water, fill a cooler, or get ice for a drink without ever opening the refrigerator door, thereby preserving internal temperature more consistently. The GE 25.3 cu.
ft. variant explicitly highlights its External Ice and Water Dispenser, a feature that squarely positions it for users who value this instant convenience above all else.
Conversely, refrigerators such as the GE GWE19JYLFS 18.6 cu. ft. Counter Depth French Door Refrigerator and GE 20.6 cu.
ft. Counter Depth French Door Refrigerator embrace internal water dispensers.
This architectural choice grants a cleaner, more streamlined aesthetic. The internal dispenser, like the one featured on the GE GWE19JYLFS 18.6 cu. ft.
model, tucks away neatly, maintaining the sleek, built-in look that counter-depth designs strive for. However, this comes at the cost of immediate external access; filling large pitchers or multiple glasses requires opening a door, which can lead to slight temperature fluctuations and a less fluid interaction with the appliance.
The Whirlpool 33 Inch Freestanding Side by Side Refrigerator with 21.72 stands as a middle ground, but specifications on its dispenser type are not detailed here, necessitating a closer look at user preferences. For households where the seamless look of cabinetry is paramount, foregoing the external dispenser is a clear advantage. Buyers who frequently use large water bottles or require constant ice replenishment will find the external access of models like the Frigidaire Professional 36 in.
22.3 cu. ft.
Counter Depth Side-by-Side or the GE 25.3 cu. ft. Side by Side Refrigerator in Fingerprint a non-negotiable feature.
Ultimately, for a truly integrated kitchen and minimal visual clutter, the GE GWE19JYLFS 18.6 cu. ft. Counter Depth French Door Refrigerator is a compelling choice, provided the user is content with internal water dispensing convenience.
What to Look For in Side by Side Counter Depth Refrigerators
Capacity and shelving configuration
For a side-by-side refrigerator that fits your kitchen seamlessly, prioritize capacity that matches your household size, aiming for 20 cubic feet or more for families. Look for at least four adjustable glass shelves for maximum flexibility and four or more gallon-size door bins for convenient beverage storage. Essential features include two humidity-controlled crispers to keep produce fresh longer and a full-width deli drawer for wider food items.
Opt for models with a balance of refrigerator and freezer space, typically a 60/40 split, ensuring ample room for all your groceries. The best choice is a model offering over 22 cubic feet with these flexible shelving and drawer configurations.
Cooling technology and features
When evaluating cooling, dual-evaporator systems are superior, independently managing the freezer and refrigerator compartments to maintain optimal humidity and temperature. This prevents food from drying out and odors from transferring. Prioritize models with advanced multi-airflow technology for consistent cooling across all shelves.
For convenience, external ice and water dispensers are a must, ideally with built-in filtration systems for pure taste. Temperature-controlled drawers and rapid cooling options add significant value for preserving perishables and quickly chilling items.
The best performance comes from refrigerators with dual-evaporators and advanced multi-airflow.
Finish and aesthetics
Achieving a built-in aesthetic with a counter-depth side-by-side refrigerator hinges on smart finishing choices. Standard stainless steel is a classic, but for busy kitchens, select fingerprint-resistant finishes to minimize smudges. Black stainless steel offers a modern, sleek look that complements various decor styles.
For ultimate customization and a truly integrated appearance, opt for panel-ready models that accept custom cabinetry fronts. The counter-depth design itself is paramount, ensuring the appliance sits flush with surrounding cabinetry, creating a streamlined, sophisticated kitchen silhouette.
The top recommendation for a seamless look is a fingerprint-resistant stainless steel counter-depth model.
Which Should You Choose?
- If you prioritize maximizing fresh food storage in your kitchen, choose a side-by-side model with over 16 cu. ft. of fresh food capacity.
- If you need a compact refrigerator that offers both convenience and a built-in aesthetic, look for a counter-depth French door model with an internal water dispenser.
- If you have a larger family or frequently entertain, opt for a spacious side-by-side refrigerator with at least 25 cu. ft. of total capacity and external ice and water dispensing.
Quick Best Side By Side Counter Depth Refrigerators Buying Checklist
- Measure Your Space: Ensure the refrigerator’s dimensions, including door swing, fit your kitchen layout.
- Assess Capacity Needs: Choose a size that comfortably stores groceries for your household size.
- Consider Shelving Flexibility: Look for adjustable shelves and ample door storage for various items.
- Evaluate Cooling Performance: Prioritize models with advanced cooling systems for optimal food preservation.
- Check Ice and Water Dispenser Features: Opt for filtered dispensers if this is a priority.
- Select the Right Finish: Match your kitchen décor with stainless steel, black stainless, or panel-ready options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Primary Advantage Of A Counter-Depth Refrigerator?
Counter-depth refrigerators offer a streamlined, built-in look by aligning flush with your kitchen cabinetry. This design creates a more cohesive and less intrusive aesthetic, preventing the appliance from protruding excessively into your kitchen space.
How Does A Side-By-Side Configuration Impact Storage In Counter-Depth Models?
The side-by-side configuration divides refrigerator and freezer sections vertically, offering easy access to both fresh and frozen items at eye level. This layout can make organizing both compartments efficient, despite the slightly reduced depth common to counter-depth models.
Are There Specific Internal Features To Look For In The Best Side By Side Counter Depth Refrigerators?
Look for adjustable spill-proof shelves and gallon door bins to maximize usable space and accommodate various container sizes. Humidity-controlled crispers and dedicated temperature zones are also beneficial for prolonging the freshness of different food types.
What Cooling Technologies Enhance Food Preservation In These Refrigerators?
Dual-evaporator systems are highly effective as they maintain optimal humidity levels independently in the refrigerator and freezer sections. Advanced multi-airflow features also ensure consistent temperatures throughout, directly contributing to better food longevity.
Do Counter-Depth Refrigerators Typically Include Ice And Water Dispensers?
Many best side by side counter depth refrigerators do feature external ice and water dispensers, often with advanced filtration systems. This adds significant convenience for everyday use, providing instant access to chilled water and ice without opening the door.
Final Words
Investing in one of the best side by side counter depth refrigerators can significantly enhance your kitchen’s functionality and aesthetics. These models offer a sleek, integrated look while providing convenient organization and efficient cooling. Upgrade your kitchen with a refrigerator that balances style and performance for a more enjoyable home experience.