Contents
- The Top 8
- Top 8 Side by Side Refrigerators Reviewed in Detail
- 1. Top Pick
- 2. Best Compact
- 3. Best Design
- 4. Most Versatile
- 5. Best Premium
- 6. Best Splurge
- 7. Best Budget
- 8. Best Value
- 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
You need side by side refrigerator reviews to help you choose the best model. The top pick is the Midea MRS25I7BST, with 24.5 cu. ft. of counter-depth space and an autofill water pitcher. For those on a budget, the iceBlue 20.7 cu. ft. model saves money but has less overall storage.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Side by Side Refrigerators Reviewed in Detail
This article reviews several side by side refrigerators, highlighting their features and specs.
1. Top Pick
The Midea MRS25I7BST is a strong choice in the side by side refrigerator market. It offers 24.5 cu. ft. of counter-depth storage. This design provides a sleek fit in your kitchen while maximizing space. Compared to the other models, it stands out with its autofill water pitcher feature. This allows you to fill up drinks without using a separate pitcher. The main downside is that it might not have the larger capacity of some other models. If you need extra space, you may want to consider the Kenmore 29 cu. ft. model instead.
Pros
- 24.5 cu. ft. counter-depth design
- Autofill water pitcher for convenience
- Fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish
- Electronic control panel for easy adjustments
Cons
- Less total storage than larger models
- No built-in ice maker
Best for: Smaller kitchens needing efficient storage. Not ideal for: Large families requiring extra capacity.
A stylish and functional choice for efficient kitchen use.
2. Best Compact
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 perfect for those who need extra space. Its 36-inch width provides ample room for groceries and meal prep. This refrigerator has fast cooling and smart organization, making it ideal for busy households. Compared to the Midea, this model offers larger capacity but lacks some advanced features like the autofill water pitcher. The main limitation is its larger size, which may not fit well in smaller kitchens.
Pros
- 29 cu. ft. extra-large capacity
- Designed for smart organization
- Fast cooling for freshness
- 36-inch width fits larger spaces
Cons
- Too large for small kitchens
- Basic features compared to some models
Best for: Large households needing maximum space. Not ideal for: Smaller kitchens with limited room.
A spacious choice for families with plenty of groceries.
3. Best Design
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 offers a great design for modern kitchens. Its tempered glass shelves provide a stylish look while being easy to clean. Compared to the Kenmore and Midea, this model balances capacity and style well. However, the overall storage is less than the top models in this list. If you need more space, you may want to consider larger options.
Pros
- 21.4 cu. ft. of organized storage
- Tempered glass shelves for easy cleaning
- LED interior lighting for better visibility
- Frost-free operation eliminates ice buildup
Cons
- Less capacity than larger models
- No advanced features like water dispensers
Best for: Modern kitchens with style requirements. Not ideal for: Those needing maximum storage capacity.
A stylish option that combines design with functionality.
4. Most Versatile
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. model is versatile for various kitchen styles. Its black stainless steel design is attractive and hides fingerprints well. Compared to the Element, it offers a bit more capacity. However, it lacks advanced features like ice makers. The main downside is that it may feel smaller for larger families who need more space.
Pros
- 20.7 cu. ft. spacious storage
- Black stainless steel finish for easy maintenance
- Ample storage for drinks and groceries
- Versatile design fits many kitchens
Cons
- Less capacity than other models
- No ice maker or water dispenser
Best for: Smaller families or those with limited kitchen space. Not ideal for: Large families who need more storage.
A stylish choice for those who prioritize design.
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 solid premium option. With 15.6 cu. ft. of capacity, it suits smaller spaces well. Its oversized door bins provide extra storage for drinks and snacks. Compared to others, this model is compact but may lack features like ice makers. The limitation is its smaller overall space, which might not be enough for larger households.
Pros
- 15.6 cu. ft. capacity for compact needs
- Oversized door bins for storage
- Digital display for easy controls
- Counter depth design fits tight spaces
Cons
- Limited storage for large families
- No ice maker or water dispenser
Best for: Small kitchens or apartments. Not ideal for: Families needing extensive storage.
An excellent choice for those with limited space.
6. Best Splurge
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 provides a good balance of features. Its water dispenser and built-in ice maker are convenient for drink lovers. Compared to the Midea, it offers a more affordable option with decent storage. The limitation is the overall capacity, which may not meet the needs of larger families.
Pros
- 18.1 cu. ft. of usable storage
- Built-in ice maker for convenience
- Water dispenser for easy access
- Garage-ready design for versatile placement
Cons
- Limited storage for big households
- Not as stylish as others
Best for: Those who want features without a high price. Not ideal for: Large families needing extensive space.
A budget-friendly option with useful features.
7. Best Budget
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
Forno offers a compact side by side refrigerator with 15.6 cu. ft. of capacity. Its adjustable glass shelves allow for flexible storage. Compared to the Electactic, it has a stylish design but lacks features like a water dispenser. The main tradeoff is its smaller capacity, which isn’t ideal for larger households.
Pros
- 15.6 cu. ft. total capacity
- Adjustable glass shelves for customization
- Fast cool and freeze functions
- Compact design fits well in small kitchens
Cons
- Limited storage for larger families
- No water dispenser or ice maker
Best for: Small kitchens with specific design needs. Not ideal for: Families needing extra storage.
A compact choice for tight spaces, but limited in features.
8. Best Value
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 is a spacious side by side refrigerator, offering 20.59 cu. ft. of storage. Its counter-depth design integrates well into kitchen cabinetry. Compared to the iceBlue model, it provides more room and flexible storage options. However, it lacks water and ice dispensers, which could be a downside for some. The main limitation is the lack of advanced features found in other models.
Pros
- 20.59 cu. ft. spacious storage
- Counter-depth design for a sleek look
- Flexible storage with wall-to-wall shelves
- Easy installation for freestanding setup
Cons
- No water or ice dispensers
- Limited advanced features
Best for: Those needing ample space and a sleek design. Not ideal for: Users wanting extra features like dispensers.
A functional and spacious option for everyday use.
Side by Side Refrigerators Compared Side by Side
The table below shows key specs for each refrigerator. Use it to compare aspects like capacity, design, and special features. The side by side refrigerator reviews will help you find the right fit for your home.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Midea MRS25I7BST 24.5 Cu. Ft. Stainless Counter-Depth… | Top Pick | Midea | $1079.12 | Check |
| 2 | Kenmore 29 cu. ft. 36" Wide Side-by-Side Refrigerator | Best Compact | Kenmore | $1949.99 | Check |
| 3 | Element 21.4 cu. ft. Side-by-Side Refrigerator | Best Design | Element Electronics | 999.99 | Check |
| 4 | 20.7 Cu.Ft. Side-by-side Refrigerators | Most Versatile | 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 Splurge | Electactic | $1399 | Check |
| 7 | Forno Salerno 33-inch Freestanding Side-by-side… | Best Budget | Forno | $1099 | Check |
| 8 | Whirlpool WRSC5536RZ 20.59 Cu. Ft. Stainless Side-by-Side… | Best Value | 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 with enough space for your needs. A family of four typically needs at least 20 cu. ft. Capacity includes both the fridge and freezer sections. More space means less frequent shopping trips.
Counter-Depth vs Standard
Counter-depth models fit flush with your cabinets, giving a streamlined look. Standard models are deeper and offer more storage. Choose based on your kitchen layout and style preferences.
Ice and Water Dispensers
Consider if you want an ice maker or water dispenser. These features add convenience but can take up space inside the fridge. Weigh the benefit of easy access against the storage they might use up.
Energy Efficiency
Check for Energy Star ratings. More efficient models use less energy, which can save you money over time. Look for features like LED lighting that help reduce energy use.
Style and Finish
Stainless steel is popular for its modern look and durability. Black models can hide fingerprints better. Choose a finish that matches your kitchen design while considering maintenance needs.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
The data comes from manufacturer websites, customer reviews, and expert articles. We reviewed dozens of models to find the best options in the side by side refrigerator category.
How we built this shortlist
We filtered through around 50 different side by side refrigerators. Key factors included capacity, features like ice makers, and user ratings. Each model was rated on its specifications and user satisfaction.
What we ruled out and why
Models with low customer ratings or missing important features were removed from our list. We focused on reliability and performance. Models under 15 cu. ft. were also excluded.
What we did not do
No models were tested by hand or in lab conditions. We did not take measurements or assign scores. Our focus was purely on available data and user experiences.
How often this page is updated
This page is updated quarterly to reflect new models and changing user feedback. We aim to provide the most accurate and current information on the best side by side refrigerators.
Frequently asked questions
What is a side by side refrigerator?
A side by side refrigerator features two vertical compartments. One side is for fresh food, the other for frozen items. This design makes it easy to access both types of storage.
How much space do I need for a side by side refrigerator?
You should measure your kitchen space before buying. Most side by side refrigerators are about 36 inches wide and need extra room for opening doors. Ensure a few inches of clearance around the unit.
Do side by side refrigerators have ice makers?
Many side by side refrigerators come with built-in ice makers. This feature provides easy access to ice for drinks. However, check the model specifications to confirm if it includes this option.
What are the benefits of a counter-depth side by side refrigerator?
Counter-depth refrigerators fit flush with your cabinets, offering a sleek look. They often have less storage than standard models but are great for smaller kitchens.
Are side by side refrigerators energy efficient?
Many models have Energy Star ratings, which indicate energy efficiency. Look for features that help reduce energy usage, such as LED lighting and efficient compressors.
What to look for
Storage Capacity
Storage capacity is a key factor when choosing a side by side refrigerator. Most refrigerators range from 20 to 30 cu. ft. A larger capacity means you can store more food and drinks. Families typically need at least 20 cu. ft. to accommodate their groceries without running out of space.
Ice and Water Dispensers
Many side by side refrigerators offer ice and water dispensers. This feature allows for easy access to cold drinks. However, it can take up valuable interior space. If you host often, this feature may be worth the trade-off.
Energy Efficiency Ratings
Energy efficiency ratings help you choose models that save on electricity costs. Look for the Energy Star label, indicating it meets energy efficiency guidelines. Efficient models can save you money on your utility bills over time.
Interior Organization
Consider the interior layout of the refrigerator. Adjustable shelves, door bins, and crisper drawers can help maximize storage. A well-organized fridge makes it easier to find and access your food.
Style and Finish
The style and finish of a refrigerator can impact your kitchen’s look. Stainless steel is popular for its modern appeal. Black or white finishes may hide smudges better. Choose a color that complements your kitchen design.
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