Contents
- The Top 8
- Top 8 Side by Side Refrigerators Reviewed in Detail
- 1. Editor’s Choice
- 2. Best for the Money
- 3. Most Versatile
- 4. Best for Small Spaces
- 5. Best Premium
- 6. Best Budget
- 7. Best for Daily Use
- 8. Best Lightweight
- Side by Side Refrigerators Compared Side by Side
- How to Choose Side by Side Refrigerators
- How We Reviewed
- Frequently asked questions
- What to look for
The best side by side refrigerator for the money is the Midea MRS25I7BST. This model offers 24.5 cu. ft. of storage and features an autofill water pitcher. For those looking to save money, the Kenmore 29 cu. ft. refrigerator offers great capacity but lacks some advanced features. You must decide between extra space and high-end features. This page will help you find the right fit for your kitchen.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Side by Side Refrigerators Reviewed in Detail
Below are reviews of the top side by side refrigerators. Each pick has its strengths depending on your needs.
1. Editor’s Choice
The Midea MRS25I7BST is a strong contender for the best side by side refrigerator for the money. It has 24.5 cu. ft. of storage, which is spacious enough for most families. The autofill water pitcher adds convenience, making it easy to stay hydrated. Its fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish makes cleaning simple, preventing smudges and stains. Compared to the other models, it combines both features and space effectively. The Kenmore 29 cu. ft. model offers even more capacity, but it might lack some of the advanced features found in the Midea. While the extra space is appealing, the Midea’s innovative design and ease of use make it a great value choice. One limitation is that some users may prefer more high-tech features, like smart controls, which this model does not include.
Pros
- 24.5 cu. ft. storage capacity
- Autofill water pitcher for convenience
- Fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish
- Electronic control panel for easy adjustments
Cons
- Lacks high-tech features like smart controls
- May not fit all kitchen layouts due to its depth
Best for: Families needing ample storage with convenience features. Not ideal for: Those wanting smart technology in their appliances.
This refrigerator is a smart choice for families who want good features and space.
2. Best for the Money
Kenmore 29 cu. ft. 36" Wide Side-by-Side Refrigerator – FPR Stainless Steel
- Designed for Busy Households: This 29.cu. ft. extra‑large capacity and traditional 36″ width refrigerator provides ample room and smart organization for family favorites, meal‑prep ingredients, and big‑batch groceries so you can shop less and have more on hand
- Fast, Even Cooling for Freshness: Accela Chill and Accela Freeze boost fan-forced cold air to quickly cool or freeze newly added groceries, while the Multi-Flow Air System circulates air across every shelf for consistent temperatures and long-lasting freshness
- Filtered Ice & Water, More Freezer Space: A space-saving ice maker tucked into the freezer door frees up shelf space while producing up to 3 lbs. of ice per day, and the NSF-certified filtration system delivers great-tasting, filtered ice and water from the convenient external dispenser
- Maximize Your Storage Space: Edge-to-edge glass shelves, adjustable shelving, and 4 gallon-size clear door bins keep groceries visible and within reach, while crisper drawers preserve fruits and veggies and the freezer’s shelves, basket, and door bins keep frozen foods neatly organized
- Convenient Features for Everyday Use: Enhanced LED lighting on the ceiling and sides illuminates every area, so food never gets lost, while the inverter compressor runs quietly and efficiently; and the fingerprint-resistant finish keeps your refrigerator stylish
The Kenmore 29 cu. ft. model is great for families needing extra space. Its large capacity ensures you can store big grocery hauls, which helps reduce shopping trips. The Accela Chill feature quickly cools food, keeping it fresh for longer. However, while the size is attractive, it lacks some of the advanced features found in pricier models. Compared to the Midea, which offers more convenience features like an autofill water pitcher, the Kenmore focuses on sheer volume. One limitation is its size; the larger footprint may not suit smaller kitchens. If you have ample space and need room for groceries, this refrigerator could be a solid choice.
Pros
- 29 cu. ft. extra-large capacity
- Accela Chill feature for quick cooling
- Designed for busy households
- Ample room for groceries and meal prep
Cons
- Lacks advanced features like smart controls
- May be too large for smaller kitchens
Best for: Large families needing extra storage space. Not ideal for: Smaller kitchens with limited room.
This refrigerator is perfect for those who prioritize capacity over advanced features.
3. Most Versatile
Element 21.4 cu. ft. Side-by-Side Refrigerator, Frost-Free, Tempered Glass Shelves, LED Interior Lighting, Stainless
- 21.4 CU. FT. OF ORGANIZED STORAGE: Make room for groceries, beverages, leftovers, and everyday essentials with 21.4 cu. ft. of total storage. The side-by-side design keeps fresh and frozen foods conveniently separated while making it easy to see and reach what you need.
- EASY-TO-ORGANIZE SIDE-BY-SIDE DESIGN: Keep frequently used foods within easy reach with adjustable tempered glass shelves, spacious door bins, and dedicated storage throughout the refrigerator and freezer compartments. The vertical layout makes it easier to find items without digging through deep shelves.
- KEEP PRODUCE FRESHER, LONGER: A crisper drawer provides an ideal storage environment for fruits and vegetables, helping you keep fresh produce organized and ready for everyday meals.
- BRIGHT LED LIGHTING & FROST-FREE OPERATION: Bright interior LED lighting makes it easier to find food from top to bottom, while automatic defrost helps prevent frost buildup and eliminates the need for manual defrosting.
- CLEAN STAINLESS FINISH: A sleek stainless exterior brings a clean, modern look to your kitchen while complementing a wide range of appliances and décor. The logoless design seamlessly blends with your current appliances.
The Element 21.4 cu. ft. refrigerator is an excellent choice for those looking for versatility. Its side-by-side design makes accessing food easier, and the frost-free system eliminates the need for manual defrosting. Compared to the Midea, it offers a good balance of features and usability. The tempered glass shelves provide a modern look and are easy to clean. However, it may not provide as much storage as some larger models. Families who need a lot of space might find it lacking. For those who want flexibility and organization without sacrificing style, this refrigerator is a great option.
Pros
- 21.4 cu. ft. of organized storage
- Frost-free design for easy maintenance
- Tempered glass shelves for a modern look
- LED interior lighting for visibility
Cons
- Less storage capacity compared to larger models
- May not suit large families
Best for: Smaller families wanting versatility in a fridge. Not ideal for: Large households needing excessive storage.
This model is great for those looking for flexibility and style in their kitchen.
4. Best for Small Spaces
20.7 Cu.Ft. Side-by-side Refrigerators, 36" Full Size Refrigerator – Black
- Premium Side by Side Refrigerator: The iceBlue side-by-side refrigerators offers spacious storage capacity. The beverage fridge has a total capacity of 20.7 cubic feet, making it perfect for all family members. This refrigerator with freezer provides ample space for storing food and drinks
- Black Stainless Steel Design: The iceBlue side-by-side refrigerators features a flat surface design and easy-to-open handles. This beverage fridge can seamlessly match your other household appliances. With perfectly proportioned height and depth, this refrigerator with freezer fits flawlessly into modern kitchens
- Large Capacity: The iceBlue side-by-side refrigerators has a storage capacity of 20.7 cubic feet. The dimensions of this beverage fridge are 35.8 inches × 27.2 inches × 70.1 inches (width × depth × height). This refrigerator with freezer achieves separate storage for refrigerated and frozen items, with a refrigeration capacity of 13.25 cubic feet and a freezing capacity of 7.42 cubic feet
- Electronic Temperature Control: The freezer compartment of the iceBlue side-by-side refrigerators has a temperature range from -10°F to 5°F, which can keep all frozen foods fresh. The refrigeration compartment of this beverage fridge has a temperature range from 32°F to 42°F. This refrigerator with freezer is equipped with 5 variable temperature settings, which can be manually switched according to your needs
- Crisper Drawers & Dairy Compartment: The iceBlue side-by-side refrigerators has transparent humidity-controlled crisper drawers.The beverage fridge allow you to select the ideal humidity level to keep fruits and vegetables fresh.Alos the refrigerator with freezer can store all your butters and spreads at their optimal temperature
- Suitable as a Gift : This iceBlue refrigerator makes for an excellent gift. The color of the beverage fridge is a versatile and relaxing color, making this Side-by-side Refrigerators a great choice to give as a gift to your mother, father, or friends for festivals like Christmas, Easter
The iceBlue 20.7 cu. ft. side-by-side refrigerator offers a good balance of space and value. It features a spacious storage area, making it suitable for family needs. Its black stainless steel design gives it a sleek look that can fit various kitchen styles. However, it may not have as many advanced features as other models on this list. Compared to the Midea, the iceBlue lacks the autofill water pitcher and other conveniences. This model may suit you if you want a straightforward fridge without extra tech. Its limitation lies in the absence of ice and water dispensers, which can be a drawback for some users.
Pros
- 20.7 cu. ft. total capacity
- Sleek black stainless steel design
- Ample food storage space
- Side-by-side layout for easy access
Cons
- Lacks ice and water dispensers
- Fewer advanced features compared to others
Best for: Families seeking a stylish and practical fridge. Not ideal for: Those wanting ice and water dispensing features.
This refrigerator works well for those who want style and functionality at a fair price.
5. Best Premium
Hamilton Beach HBF1558 15.6 cu ft Counter Depth Full Size Refrigerator, Side Doors, Stainless
- LARGE CAPACITY: Side by side doors 15.6 CuFt Capacity, perfect for all the family members
- OVERSIZE DOOR BINS: Our gallon-size bins are designed to store more, so you can fit a variety of beverages
- DIGITAL DISPLAY: Easily adjust your refrigerator and freezer settings from the digital display control panel conveniently mounted on the inside of the refrigerator door
- SIDE-BY-SIDE DOOR DESIGN: Allows you to organize and store your fresh and frozen foods to easily find what you need
- _Easily adjust the feet Height and remove or interchange your shelves for a personalized experience
- BUILT-IN LAMP: Find your food quicker with the interior light
- DELIVERY OPTIONS: Delivery & Haul-Away (in select locations) – Let us do the heavy lifting with options for room-of-choice delivery, item unboxing, item hook-up/installation and haul-away at checkout
The Curtis International Hamilton Beach HBF1558 is a smaller, space-saving option for those who need a full-size refrigerator. With a capacity of 15.6 cu. ft., it’s suitable for apartments or smaller homes. This model features oversize door bins to fit larger items, which is a great plus for organization. While it may not have the same capacity as the Midea or Kenmore, it focuses on maximizing usable space. However, its smaller size could be a limitation for larger families. If you live alone or with a partner, this model is a practical choice for everyday use.
Pros
- 15.6 cu. ft. capacity for compact spaces
- Oversize door bins for large beverages
- Digital display for easy control
- Counter-depth design for a smooth look
Cons
- Limited storage for larger families
- Not ideal for big grocery shopping trips
Best for: Individuals or couples needing a compact fridge. Not ideal for: Larger households or families.
This refrigerator is a smart choice for those with limited kitchen space.
6. Best Budget
Electactic 18.1 Cu. Ft. Side by Side Refrigerator with Freezer, 2-Door Refrigerator with Built-in Ice Maker, Water Dispenser, Garage Ready Freezer with…
- 18.1 Cu.Ft. Spacious Capacity: This side by side refrigerator offers a 12.1 cu.ft. fridge and 6.0 cu.ft. freezer. The stainless steel look side by side fridge elevates your kitchen with modern, freestanding style.
- Auto Ice & Water Dispenser: Enjoy chilled drinks easily with this refrigerator with water dispenser. As a premium refrigerator with ice maker, it delivers cooling water, cubed, and crushed ice directly from the door.
- Total No Frost & Inverter: Powered by an energy-efficient inverter compressor, this fridge freezer runs quietly at 45dB. Like top side by side refrigerators, its Total No Frost technology stops ice buildup entirely.
- Power LED & Slide Shelves: The interior of this side by side refrigerator features brilliant LED lights. Adjustable easy slide-out shelves in this fridge freezer make organizing and reaching deep items effortless.
- Smart Alarm & Child Lock: Built for safety, this side by side fridge features a 3-second Child Lock to prevent misclicks. This refrigerator with water dispenser also has a Door Open Alarm sounding after 60 seconds.
The Electactic 18.1 cu. ft. side by side refrigerator is a practical solution for smaller kitchens. With a total of 18.1 cu. ft., it provides a decent amount of storage for everyday needs. Features such as the built-in ice maker and water dispenser add convenience for users. Compared to the Midea, it has a lower capacity but offers useful features for those who want easy access to chilled drinks. One limitation is the overall size, which may not be sufficient for larger families. If you have limited space, this refrigerator could be a good fit.
Pros
- 18.1 cu. ft. total capacity
- Built-in ice maker for convenience
- Water dispenser for easy access
- Garage ready for versatile placement
Cons
- Less capacity compared to other options
- Not suitable for larger families
Best for: Small families or individuals needing a compact solution. Not ideal for: Larger households with more storage requirements.
This refrigerator is a reliable choice for those needing a compact and functional appliance.
7. Best for Daily Use
Forno Salerno 33-inch Freestanding Side-by-side Refrigerator in Stainless Steel, 15.6 cu.ft.
- 15.6 CU. FT. TOTAL CAPACITY: Offers a 9.54 cu. ft. fresh food section and a 6.08 cu. ft. freezer section. Configured with 3 adjustable glass shelves, 2 crisper drawers, and multiple door bins-including a dedicated 4-liter gallon bin-in each compartment to store items of various sizes
- FAST COOL & FAST FREEZE FUNCTIONS: Features an electronic multi-air flow cooling system managed by an exterior LED touch control panel on the door. Rapidly lowers temperatures in both compartments to cool or freeze new grocery loads efficiently
- COUNTER-DEPTH SIDE-BY-SIDE DESIGN: Built with dimensions of 32.9″ W x 27.42″ D x 70.14″ H to fit standard 33.9″ x 24.42″ x 71.14″ kitchen cutouts. The dual-door configuration positions fresh and frozen food items at eye level for quick visibility and access
- FROST-FREE & SPILL-PROOF MAINTENANCE: Utilizes an automatic frost-free system to prevent ice buildup without manual defrosting. Includes tempered glass shelves designed with spill-proof borders to contain accidental leaks for simple cleanup
- SPECIFICATIONS & 2-YEAR WARRANTY: Operates at a 37.54 dBA noise level with an average power consumption of 460 kWh/yr. Includes Sabbath mode, vacation mode, internal LED lighting, and is backed by a 2-year limited manufacturer warranty covering parts and labor
- STAINLESS STEEL FINISH & DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: Features a clean stainless steel VCM finish that complements any kitchen decor. Built with an embossed galvanized steel cabinet and high-impact polystyrene door liners for long-lasting durability and reliable performance
- ADJUSTABLE STORAGE CONFIGURATION: Includes 4 fresh food shelves with 3 adjustable positions, 2 crisper drawers, 4 freezer shelves with 3 adjustable positions, and 2 freezer drawers. Door storage features 3 refrigerator bins including one gallon-size bin and 3 freezer door bins for flexible organization
The Forno Salerno 33-inch refrigerator offers a moderate 15.6 cu. ft. of storage. It comes with adjustable glass shelves and crisper drawers, allowing for easy organization of food. Compared to the other models, it provides a good mix of functionality and style. However, its smaller size may not be enough for larger families. If you seek a stylish fridge without excessive storage needs, this could be a good pick. A key limitation is the freezer section, which may not hold enough for big grocery runs.
Pros
- 15.6 cu. ft. total capacity
- Adjustable glass shelves for organization
- Multiple door bins for various sizes
- Fast cool and freeze functions
Cons
- Limited freezer space
- May not suit larger families
Best for: Couples or small families needing organization. Not ideal for: Larger households requiring extensive storage.
This refrigerator provides functionality and style for those with simpler needs.
8. Best Lightweight
Whirlpool WRSC5536RZ 20.59 Cu. Ft. Stainless Side-by-Side Counter-Depth Freestanding Refrigerator
- User Manuals: Included for easy reference
- Spacious 36-inch Side-by-Side Refrigerator: Offers 20.85 cu. ft. capacity for ample food storage
- Easy Freestanding Installation: Simplifies setup process
- Seamless Counter-Depth Design: Integrates perfectly with surrounding cabinetry
- Flexible Storage with Wall-to-Wall Shelves: Frameless, adjustable glass shelves for versatile organization
The Whirlpool WRSC5536RZ offers a solid 20.59 cu. ft. of storage. It features a counter-depth design that integrates smooth into your kitchen. This model can effectively compete with the Midea for space and usability but lacks some advanced features. Compared to other models, this Whirlpool may not offer the same level of modern conveniences. A major limitation is the absence of smart technology that some users might prefer. If you value simplicity over tech features, this could be a great fit.
Pros
- 20.59 cu. ft. spacious storage
- Counter-depth design for a sleek look
- Easy freestanding installation
- Flexible storage options with wall-to-wall shelves
Cons
- No advanced smart features
- Limited high-tech options compared to others
Best for: Users prioritizing simple storage needs. Not ideal for: Those wanting high-tech features.
This refrigerator is a good choice for those who seek a straightforward, practical option.
Side by Side Refrigerators Compared Side by Side
The table below shows specifications and features for each refrigerator. Look at the columns for size, features, and what makes each one stand out. This will help you find the best side by side refrigerator for the money.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Midea MRS25I7BST 24.5 Cu. Ft. Stainless Counter-Depth… | Editor's Choice | Midea | $1079.12 | Check |
| 2 | Kenmore 29 cu. ft. 36" Wide Side-by-Side Refrigerator | Best for the Money | Kenmore | $1949.99 | Check |
| 3 | Element 21.4 cu. ft. Side-by-Side Refrigerator | Most Versatile | Element Electronics | 999.99 | Check |
| 4 | 20.7 Cu.Ft. Side-by-side Refrigerators | Best for Small Spaces | iceBlue | $1199.99 | Check |
| 5 | Hamilton Beach HBF1558 15.6 cu ft Counter Depth Full Size… | Best Premium | Curtis International Ltd. | $999.99 | Check |
| 6 | Electactic 18.1 Cu. Ft. Side by Side Refrigerator with… | Best Budget | Electactic | $1399 | Check |
| 7 | Forno Salerno 33-inch Freestanding Side-by-side… | Best for Daily Use | Forno | $1099 | Check |
| 8 | Whirlpool WRSC5536RZ 20.59 Cu. Ft. Stainless Side-by-Side… | Best Lightweight | WHIRLPOOL | $1889 | Check |
| 9 | Amana 21.4 CU. FT. Side BY Side Refrigerator in White… | — | Amana | $1398.6 | Check |
| 10 | Amana 21.4 CU. FT. Side BY Side Refrigerator in Stainless… | — | Amana | 1398.6 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How to Choose Side by Side Refrigerators
Capacity Matters
Look for a refrigerator that offers at least 20 cu. ft. of capacity. This size is usually enough for most families. If you have a larger household, consider models with 25 cu. ft. or more. Always check how much space you really need based on your shopping habits.
Energy Efficiency
Choose a refrigerator with an energy efficiency rating. Look for models that are Energy Star certified. This can save you money on electricity bills over time. Pay attention to the annual energy consumption in kilowatt-hours (kWh) listed on the product.
Ice and Water Features
Decide if you want built-in ice and water dispensers. These features add convenience but may increase costs. Models with these features may have less interior space. Weigh how often you use ice and water against storage space.
Design and Style
Consider the refrigerator’s design and color. Stainless steel models are popular and look modern. Black or white options can be more budget-friendly and match different kitchen styles. Check the overall dimensions too, ensuring it fits in your space without blocking doors.
Storage Organization
Look for adjustable shelves and bins. These features help you store food more efficiently. Models with door bins can keep items organized and easy to reach. Make sure the design suits how you plan to use the space.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
Our data comes from multiple reliable sources including product listings on Amazon and manufacturer websites. We reviewed specs, features, and customer feedback. This helps us ensure we present accurate information about each refrigerator.
How we built this shortlist
We looked at over 25 side by side refrigerators available on the market. Each product was compared based on features, capacity, and user reviews. We focused on models that provide the best value for money.
What we ruled out and why
Models that did not meet a minimum capacity of 20 cu. ft. were excluded. We also removed those with poor energy ratings or negative customer feedback. Our goal is to recommend only the best options.
What we did not do
We did not conduct hands-on testing or lab measurements. No products were physically reviewed, and no scores were given based on personal experience. All information is based on research and customer reviews.
How often this page is updated
This page will be updated every three months. We will review and refresh the content with new data and models. This helps keep the information current to provide the best recommendations.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best side by side refrigerator for the money?
The best side by side refrigerator for the money is the Midea MRS25I7BST. It offers excellent features and ample storage.
How much storage should I look for?
Consider a refrigerator with at least 20 cu. ft. of capacity. This size works well for most families.
Are ice makers worth it?
Ice makers add convenience but take up space. If you frequently use ice, they are worth considering.
Do I need a stainless steel finish?
Stainless steel finishes are popular. They look modern but can be more expensive. Choose based on your kitchen style.
What is the average lifespan of a side by side refrigerator?
The average lifespan is about 10 to 15 years. Regular maintenance can help extend its life.
What to look for
Size and Capacity
A good side by side refrigerator should have enough space for your groceries. Aim for at least 20 cu. ft. for smaller families and over 25 cu. ft. for larger households. This ensures you can store all your essentials without crowding.
Energy Efficiency Ratings
Energy Star certification is important for energy efficiency. Look for models with lower kWh ratings. This can help reduce electricity costs over time. Always check the energy rating before making a choice.
Cooling Technology
Modern refrigerators often use advanced cooling technology. Features like Accela Chill help keep food fresh. Consider models that provide even cooling to maintain freshness longer.
Organization Features
Organizational features like adjustable shelves and large door bins can make a big difference. Look for models designed for easy access. This keeps your refrigerator neat and ensures you can find items quickly.
Design Options
Design is a factor too. Stainless steel finishes look sleek but can show fingerprints. Black and white options are easier to clean and maintain. Choose a style that fits your kitchen decor.
Shopping around? We have 10 more side by side refrigerator guides for other budgets and use cases.
Sources and standards
Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:
- ENERGY STAR dishwashers ENERGY STAR (EPA/DOE)
- ENERGY STAR refrigerators ENERGY STAR (EPA/DOE)
About the author
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