Is your old refrigerator making strange noises? Or maybe you’re just ready for an upgrade that makes your kitchen look and work better? If you’re thinking about a side-by-side refrigerator, you’re not alone! These fridges are popular because they offer easy access to both your cold drinks and frozen treats. But, with so many brands and models out there, picking the perfect one can feel like a puzzle.
It’s tough to know which refrigerator will actually last long, keep your food perfectly cold, and not break the bank. You want a fridge that’s quiet, energy-efficient, and has the right features for your family. Trying to sort through all the reviews and charts can be confusing and take up a lot of your precious time. We get it!
That’s why we’ve done the hard work for you. This guide will break down what Consumer Reports says about the best side-by-side refrigerators. You’ll learn about top-rated models, what makes them great, and what to watch out for. By the end, you’ll feel confident in choosing a refrigerator that fits your needs and budget. Let’s dive in and find your next kitchen star!
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 Mini Fridge Compact Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Freezer for Home Office or Dorm
Rating: 9.4/10
The Avanti Mini Fridge Compact Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Freezer is a smart solution for keeping your drinks and snacks cool. It’s a great fit for small spaces like dorm rooms, home offices, or even a home bar. This fridge offers both a refrigerator and a freezer, so you have room for everything you need.
What We Like:
- It has a spacious 5.5 cubic feet of room. This means you can store a good amount of food and drinks.
- The side-by-side design gives you easy access to both the fridge and freezer.
- The freezer section has two adjustable shelves. This helps you organize your frozen items easily.
- It keeps your food and drinks nice and cold with its efficient cooling system.
- The stainless steel finish looks really nice. It adds a modern touch to any room.
- It has dual doors, which is convenient.
- You can adjust the temperature to your liking.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s compact, 5.5 cubic feet might be too small for some families.
- The “partial automatic defrost” means you might still need to do some manual defrosting now and then.
This Avanti mini fridge is a stylish and practical choice for anyone needing extra cooling space. It’s a great way to keep your favorite items chilled and ready to go.
2. Kenmore 36″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Freezer – Accela Chill
Rating: 9.2/10
The Kenmore 36″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Freezer is a smart choice for any modern kitchen. It offers a large capacity in a space-saving design. You’ll love the convenience of the water and ice dispenser. This fridge keeps your food fresh and your kitchen looking great.
What We Like:
- The counter-depth design makes it fit perfectly in most kitchens. It gives you 20 cubic feet of storage. This is great for families.
- Accela Chill quickly cools down new groceries. The multi-flow air system keeps temperatures even everywhere. Your food stays fresher longer.
- Get fresh, filtered water and ice right from the door. The dispenser makes cubed or crushed ice. Every drink tastes clean and pure.
- The adjustable glass shelves are a big plus. They are spill-proof and look very sleek. You can easily move them to fit tall items.
- It’s ENERGY STAR Certified. This means it saves energy. The bright LED lights make it easy to see everything inside.
- The fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish stays looking good. It’s easy to wipe clean.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has a large capacity for its size, some very large families might find 20 cu. ft. a bit tight for big grocery hauls.
- The ice maker, while convenient, can sometimes be a bit noisy when it’s filling up.
This Kenmore refrigerator is a solid performer. It balances style, convenience, and energy efficiency beautifully.
3. Forno Salerno 36″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator and Freezer with 20 Cubic Ft.- Stainless Steel French Door Built-In Ice Maker Fridge
Rating: 9.4/10
Meet the Forno Salerno 36″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator and Freezer, a stylish and functional addition to any kitchen. This stainless steel beauty offers a generous 20 cubic feet of storage, keeping your food fresh and your drinks perfectly chilled. With its French door design and built-in ice maker, it’s built for convenience and modern living.
What We Like:
- Plenty of space for fresh food with 3 adjustable glass shelves and two crisper drawers.
- The freezer has two drawers and two side-door shelves, making organization easy.
- A handy soft alert sounds if a door is accidentally left open.
- Fast freeze setting gets things icy quick.
- Smart temperature control with an intelligence chip keeps food at the right temperature.
- User-friendly electronic touch controls are on the door.
- Interior LED lighting makes it easy to see everything inside.
- Includes child lock, vacation, and Sabbath modes for extra peace of mind.
- Both crushed and solid ice options from the built-in ice maker.
- E-star energy rating helps save on electricity bills.
What Could Be Improved:
- The side cabinet is dark grey, which might not match all kitchen styles.
- The air duct cover and shelf trim are white, which could show dirt more easily.
This refrigerator offers a great blend of style and smart features. It’s a solid choice for keeping your food organized and at the ideal temperature.
4. Gallery 25.6 Cu. Ft. 36″ Standard Depth Side by Side Refrigerator in Smudge-Proof Stainless Steel
Rating: 9.3/10
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 your kitchen looking clean. This refrigerator is designed to fit standard kitchen layouts, making it a practical choice for many homes.
What We Like:
- Large 25.6 cubic feet capacity holds plenty of food.
- Smudge-proof stainless steel finish stays clean and looks great.
- Side-by-side design makes both the refrigerator and freezer easily accessible.
- It’s a standard depth model, so it fits most kitchen spaces.
- The RV/Trailer Compatible feature, with its mounting bracket, is a unique and exciting addition for outdoor enthusiasts.
What Could Be Improved:
- The description mentions “BBQ and Grill station” for the RV/Trailer compatibility, which seems like a mistake. This is a refrigerator, not a grill.
- While the RV/Trailer compatibility is a neat idea, its practical application for a refrigerator might be limited or require careful planning for power and stability.
- More details about the internal organization and features (like adjustable shelves or ice makers) would be helpful.
This refrigerator offers a lot of space and a clean look for your kitchen. The unexpected RV/trailer feature adds a quirky twist, though its usefulness needs further consideration.
5. Frigidaire 33″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator with 22.2 cu. ft. Total Capacity
Rating: 9.5/10
The Frigidaire 33″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator is a great addition to any kitchen. It offers a generous 22.2 cubic feet of space, so you can store all your groceries. The sleek stainless steel finish looks modern and stylish. Plus, it comes with helpful features like an air filter to keep your food fresh and bright LED interior lighting so you can easily see what you have.
What We Like:
- Plenty of storage space for all your food.
- The air filter helps keep your food tasting its best.
- LED lights make it easy to find items.
- The ice maker is super convenient.
- It looks very nice in the kitchen.
What Could Be Improved:
- The side-by-side design can sometimes make it tricky to store wide items like platters.
- Some users might find the ice maker a bit noisy at times.
This Frigidaire refrigerator is a solid choice for families who need lots of space and appreciate modern features. It balances functionality with a good look for your home.
Your Guide to Choosing the Best Side-By-Side Refrigerator
A side-by-side refrigerator is a great choice for many kitchens. It keeps your food fresh and organized. This guide will help you pick the perfect one for your home.
1. Key Features to Look For
A. Capacity and Size
Think about how much food you store. Do you have a big family? You’ll need a larger capacity. Measure your kitchen space carefully. You don’t want a fridge that’s too big or too small.
B. Water and Ice Dispenser
Many side-by-side fridges have a dispenser for water and ice. This is super convenient. Some offer crushed ice too. Check if the dispenser is easy to use and clean.
C. Adjustable Shelving and Drawers
Look for shelves and drawers that you can move around. This helps you fit different-sized items. Crisper drawers keep fruits and veggies fresh longer. Deli drawers are great for meats and cheeses.
D. Energy Efficiency
An Energy Star certified fridge saves you money on your electricity bill. It’s also good for the environment. Look for the Energy Star label when you shop.
E. Smart Features
Some modern fridges have smart technology. You can control them with your phone. They might have cameras inside or let you make shopping lists. Think about if these features are important to you.
2. Important Materials
The materials used in a refrigerator affect its look and how long it lasts.
A. Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is popular because it looks sleek and modern. It’s also durable. Fingerprint-resistant finishes are a big plus!
B. Other Finishes
You can also find fridges in black, white, and other colors. Some have a smooth finish, while others have a textured look. Choose a finish that matches your kitchen.
C. Interior Materials
Inside, you’ll find glass shelves and plastic drawers. High-quality plastic is strong and easy to clean. Glass shelves can usually hold a lot of weight.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things make a fridge better or not so great.
A. Build Quality
A well-built fridge feels sturdy. Doors should open and close smoothly. Components like hinges and drawers should feel solid.
B. Cooling Performance
The fridge needs to keep food at the right temperature. Consistent cooling prevents food spoilage. Look for reviews that talk about how well it cools.
C. Noise Level
Some fridges can be noisy. If your kitchen is near your living area, a quiet fridge is important. Check the decibel rating if you can find it.
D. Durability
You want a fridge that lasts for many years. Good materials and solid construction help with this. Read reviews to see how long other people’s fridges have lasted.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
How you use your fridge matters.
A. Families
Families often need a lot of space. Easy-to-reach dispensers and adjustable shelves are helpful. Bright interior lighting makes it easy to find snacks.
B. Singles or Couples
Smaller capacities might be fine for one or two people. If you entertain often, a larger size could still be useful.
C. Small Kitchens
If your kitchen is small, a counter-depth model might be a good fit. These fridges don’t stick out as far. They give you more walking space.
Choosing a side-by-side refrigerator involves looking at many factors. By considering these points, you can find a fridge that meets your needs and makes your kitchen work better.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the average lifespan of a side-by-side refrigerator?
A: Most side-by-side refrigerators last between 10 and 20 years with good care.
Q: Are side-by-side refrigerators more expensive than other types?
A: They can be, especially models with advanced features like water dispensers and smart technology.
Q: How do I clean the ice maker in my side-by-side refrigerator?
A: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Usually, you’ll need to turn off the ice maker and then clean it with a mild soap and water solution.
Q: What does “counter-depth” mean for a refrigerator?
A: Counter-depth means the fridge is not as deep as a standard fridge. It sits more flush with your kitchen counters.
Q: How much space do I need around the refrigerator?
A: Always check the manual. Generally, you need a few inches of space at the back and sides for ventilation.
Q: Is a side-by-side refrigerator good for storing large items like pizza boxes?
A: They can be tricky. The freezer section is usually narrower. You might need to lay them flat or store them elsewhere.
Q: What is the benefit of a fingerprint-resistant finish?
A: It means you won’t see as many smudges from your fingers on the fridge door, making it look cleaner.
Q: How often should I replace the water filter in my refrigerator?
A: This depends on the model, but it’s usually every six months.
Q: Can I install a side-by-side refrigerator myself?
A: For basic installation, yes. But if it involves plumbing for the ice maker, it’s best to hire a professional.
Q: What should I do if my side-by-side refrigerator is making strange noises?
A: First, check if the fridge is level. Then, make sure nothing is touching the back of the unit. If the noise continues, consult your manual or a repair technician.
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!