Imagine opening your refrigerator and seeing everything perfectly organized, from your favorite juice to that leftover pizza. Sounds amazing, right? But when it’s time to buy a new fridge, especially a side-by-side model, the choices can feel overwhelming. Do you pick the one with the ice maker? How much space do you really need? It can be tricky to know what’s best for your kitchen and your family.
Choosing a refrigerator is a big decision. You use it every single day! A side-by-side fridge offers a unique layout, with the freezer on one side and the refrigerator on the other. This can be super convenient for some, but figuring out which one fits your needs can be a real puzzle. You want a fridge that works for you, not against you, and helps keep your food fresh and easy to find.
That’s why we’re here to help! In this post, we’ll dive deep into the world of refrigerator side-by-side models. We’ll break down what makes them special, what to look for when you’re shopping, and how to choose the perfect one for your home. Get ready to discover how to make your kitchen smarter and your grocery trips a breeze!
Our Top 5 Refrigerator Side By Side Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Refrigerator Side By Side Detailed Reviews
1. Kenmore 36″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Freezer – Accela Chill
Rating: 8.8/10
The Kenmore 36″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Freezer is a stylish and functional addition to any kitchen. It boasts a generous 20 cu. ft. capacity and a counter-depth design that saves space. The Accela Chill feature quickly cools your groceries, and the multi-flow air system keeps everything evenly chilled. Plus, you’ll love the convenience of the built-in water and ice dispenser, which provides filtered water and your choice of cubed or crushed ice.
What We Like:
- The counter-depth design fits nicely in most kitchens.
- Accela Chill quickly cools new groceries.
- The multi-flow air system ensures consistent temperatures.
- Filtered water and ice are always on hand.
- Adjustable, edge-to-edge glass shelves make storage flexible.
- ENERGY STAR certification means it’s energy efficient.
- Fingerprint-resistant stainless steel keeps it looking clean.
- Bright LED lighting helps you see everything inside.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might prefer a larger capacity for very big families.
- While generally quiet, some refrigerators in this class can be exceptionally silent.
This Kenmore refrigerator offers a great balance of features, style, and efficiency. It’s a solid choice for families looking for a reliable and convenient appliance.
2. Hamilton Beach HBF2064 20.6 cu ft Counter Depth Full Size Refrigerator
Rating: 9.2/10
Meet the Hamilton Beach HBF2064 20.6 cu ft Counter Depth Full Size Refrigerator in sleek stainless steel. This fridge is designed to fit seamlessly into your kitchen and keep your food fresh and organized. Its side-by-side doors make it easy to grab what you need, and the counter-depth design means it won’t stick out awkwardly. Plus, with a large capacity, it’s great for families.
What We Like:
- It has a big 20.6 cu ft capacity, so there’s plenty of room for everyone’s food.
- The side-by-side doors help you keep your fresh and frozen items neat and easy to find.
- You can easily change the temperature with the digital display, which is right inside the door.
- The extra-large door bins can hold gallon-sized drinks, saving space inside.
- Bright LED lights make it simple to see everything, even in the back.
- Its counter-depth design means it sits flush with your counters, giving your kitchen a clean look.
- Delivery and installation help are available in some areas, making setup a breeze.
What Could Be Improved:
- The digital display is inside the refrigerator, which means you have to open the door to adjust settings.
- The frequency is 60 hertz, which is standard, but worth noting for electrical compatibility.
This Hamilton Beach refrigerator offers a smart blend of style and function for your kitchen. It’s a solid choice for families needing ample storage and a modern look.
3. Hamilton Beach HBF1558 15.6 cu ft Counter Depth Full Size Refrigerator
Rating: 9.2/10
The Hamilton Beach HBF1558 15.6 cu ft Counter Depth Full Size Refrigerator in sleek stainless steel is a fantastic addition to any busy kitchen. This fridge offers a generous 15.6 cubic feet of space, making it ideal for families. Its side-by-side design helps you keep both your fresh and frozen foods neatly organized and easy to find. Plus, the counter-depth style fits seamlessly into your kitchen, giving it a modern look.
What We Like:
- The large 15.6 cu ft capacity is great for storing plenty of groceries for the whole family.
- Oversized door bins easily hold gallon-sized containers, perfect for drinks and condiments.
- The inside digital display makes adjusting temperature settings a breeze.
- The side-by-side doors offer excellent organization for both fresh and frozen items.
- You can customize the interior by easily adjusting shelf height and removing or swapping shelves.
- A built-in interior light helps you quickly locate whatever you need.
- Convenient delivery and haul-away options are available in select areas, making setup simple.
What Could Be Improved:
- The digital display is located inside the refrigerator, which might require you to open the door to make adjustments.
- While the capacity is large, it’s a counter-depth model, so the overall depth is less than a standard refrigerator.
This Hamilton Beach refrigerator offers a smart and stylish solution for keeping your food fresh and organized. Its user-friendly features and ample storage make it a practical choice for everyday life.
4. Kenmore 46-62319 30″ Top Mount Refrigerator with Freezer – Adjustable Shelving
Rating: 8.7/10
The Kenmore 46-62319 30″ Top Mount Refrigerator with Freezer is a smart choice for many kitchens. This black refrigerator offers a good amount of space for your food. It fits well in most kitchens because it’s not too big. You can keep your food fresh and organized inside.
What We Like:
- The 18.2 cu. ft. capacity is spacious but fits in a 30-inch space, making it great for smaller kitchens.
- Adjustable full-width glass shelves let you easily store tall items like drink pitchers or party trays.
- Gallon door storage and freezer bins keep your drinks, condiments, and frozen treats organized.
- Humidity-controlled crispers help your fruits and vegetables stay fresh longer.
- The ENERGY STAR certification means it helps you save money on your electricity bills.
- Bright LED lighting makes it easy to see everything inside.
- An optional icemaker can be added for extra convenience.
What Could Be Improved:
- The icemaker is optional, so you have to buy it separately if you want it.
- Some users might prefer a larger capacity if they have very big families.
This Kenmore refrigerator offers practical features for everyday use. It’s a solid option for keeping your food fresh and your kitchen organized.
5. Commercial Cool 18.9 Cu. Ft. French Door Refrigerator
Rating: 8.5/10
The Commercial Cool 18.9 Cu. Ft. French Door Refrigerator, CCRF1890KW in white brings modern style and smart features to your kitchen. Its French door design gives you easy access to the fridge, while two bottom freezer drawers keep your frozen items organized and within reach. This refrigerator is designed to make storing and accessing your food simple and efficient.
What We Like:
- The modern French door style looks great in any kitchen.
- You get plenty of space with 12.35 cu. ft. in the fridge and 6.53 cu. ft. in the freezer.
- Two bottom freezer drawers make it easy to find and grab your frozen foods.
- Digital temperature control lets you set the perfect temperature for both the fridge and freezer separately.
- Smart features like AI mode, Vacation mode, and a door alarm help save energy and keep your food safe.
- LED lighting brightens up the interior, making it easy to see everything.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 33-inch width might be a tight fit for some kitchen spaces.
- While spacious, some users might prefer more adjustable shelves in the refrigerator section.
This Commercial Cool refrigerator offers a good balance of style, space, and smart features for busy households. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking for an organized and efficient kitchen appliance.
Choosing Your Perfect Side-By-Side Refrigerator: A Smart Shopper’s Guide
A side-by-side refrigerator is a popular choice for many homes. It offers a convenient layout with the freezer on one side and the refrigerator on the other, both running from top to bottom. This guide will help you pick the best one for your kitchen.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for a side-by-side fridge, keep these important features in mind:
- Capacity: How much food do you need to store? Fridges come in different sizes. Measure your kitchen space and think about your family’s needs.
- Adjustable Shelving: Can you move the shelves around? This lets you fit taller items like milk jugs or large platters.
- Crisper Drawers: These drawers help keep fruits and vegetables fresh for longer. Look for ones with humidity controls.
- Door Bins: Good door bins are great for storing bottles, condiments, and smaller items.
- Ice Maker and Water Dispenser: Many side-by-side models have these built-in. Check if the dispenser is easy to use and if it has a filter.
- Energy Efficiency: Look for the ENERGY STAR label. These refrigerators use less electricity, saving you money on your bills and helping the planet.
- Smart Features: Some newer models connect to your phone. You can get alerts if the door is left open or control the temperature remotely.
Important Materials
The materials used in a refrigerator affect its look, durability, and how easy it is to clean.
- Stainless Steel: This is a very common and stylish finish. It resists rust and is quite durable. However, it can show fingerprints.
- Black Stainless Steel: This is a newer option that looks sleek and hides fingerprints better than regular stainless steel.
- White or Black: These classic finishes are affordable and easy to clean. They might show scuffs more easily than stainless steel.
- Interior Shelving: Glass shelves are common. They are easy to wipe clean. Some shelves are spill-proof, which helps contain messes.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Certain things make a refrigerator work better and last longer.
- Build Quality: A well-built refrigerator feels sturdy. The doors should open and close smoothly. The drawers should slide easily.
- Temperature Control: Good refrigerators keep a consistent temperature. This keeps your food safe and fresh. Look for models with separate temperature controls for the fridge and freezer.
- Noise Level: Some refrigerators can be quite noisy. Read reviews to find models that run quietly.
- Durability: High-quality components mean your fridge will last for many years. Better compressors and fans contribute to longevity.
- Brand Reputation: Some brands are known for making reliable appliances. Researching brands can give you an idea of expected quality.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use your refrigerator matters.
- Easy Access: The side-by-side design makes it easy to see and reach both refrigerated and frozen items. This is great for people who don’t like bending down.
- Organization: The vertical split helps you organize your food. You can keep drinks and everyday items in the fridge section and frozen meals in the freezer.
- Families: These are good for families because they offer a good balance of fridge and freezer space. The dispenser is also a hit with kids.
- Small Kitchens: While they are tall, their width is often less than a French door model, which can fit well in some kitchens.
- Entertaining: If you often host parties, the easy access to both cold drinks and frozen appetizers is a big plus.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Side-By-Side Refrigerators
Q: What are the main benefits of a side-by-side refrigerator?
A: Side-by-side refrigerators offer easy access to both the refrigerator and freezer sections. You can see your food clearly in both compartments without bending over. They also often come with convenient features like ice and water dispensers.
Q: Are side-by-side refrigerators good for small families?
A: Yes, they can be. They provide a good balance of fresh and frozen storage. If your family doesn’t need a huge amount of freezer space, a side-by-side is a practical choice.
Q: How do I measure my space for a side-by-side refrigerator?
A: Measure the width, height, and depth of the space where the refrigerator will go. Also, make sure there’s enough room for the doors to open fully and for ventilation around the back and sides.
Q: What is the average price range for a side-by-side refrigerator?
A: Prices can vary widely, but most side-by-side refrigerators cost between $1,000 and $2,500. High-end models with many features can cost more.
Q: How do I clean the exterior of a stainless steel side-by-side refrigerator?
A: Use a soft cloth with warm water and a mild soap. For stubborn smudges, you can use a stainless steel cleaner. Always wipe in the direction of the grain.
Q: Should I get a model with an external ice and water dispenser?
A: This is a personal choice. External dispensers are very convenient for getting cold water and ice quickly. However, they can sometimes take up a little more freezer space and might be more expensive.
Q: How much energy do side-by-side refrigerators use?
A: Energy use depends on the size and features. Look for ENERGY STAR certified models. They use about 10-15% less energy than standard models.
Q: What is the lifespan of a side-by-side refrigerator?
A: With proper care and maintenance, a side-by-side refrigerator can last between 10 and 20 years.
Q: Can I put a side-by-side refrigerator next to a wall?
A: It’s best to leave some space between the refrigerator and the wall. This allows for proper air circulation, which helps the refrigerator run efficiently and prevents overheating.
Q: What are the disadvantages of a side-by-side refrigerator?
A: The main disadvantage can be that the compartments are narrower than in other refrigerator types, making it harder to store wide items like pizza boxes or large baking sheets. The freezer section can also be less spacious compared to a top-freezer model of the same overall size.
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.
Hi, I’m Florence Disha, the creator behind HomesMend.com. With a passion for making every house a home, I share my personal experiences, tips, and expertise to help you transform your living spaces. Whether it’s practical advice, creative ideas, or tried-and-true solutions, my goal is to inspire and guide you in creating a home that feels just right. Let’s make every corner of your space truly yours!