Imagine opening your refrigerator and seeing all your food perfectly organized, from fresh veggies to that leftover pizza. Sounds great, right? But when it comes to choosing a Rated Side By Side Refrigerator, it can feel like a puzzle with too many pieces. You want a fridge that keeps your food fresh, looks good in your kitchen, and doesn’t break the bank. It’s a big decision, and figuring out which one is the best can be confusing.
This is where we come in! We know that picking the perfect fridge can be a challenge. There are so many brands and features to think about. You might wonder about things like energy efficiency, how much space you really need, or what special features are worth the extra cost. Don’t worry, we’re here to help you sort through it all.
By the end of this post, you’ll feel much more confident about choosing a Rated Side By Side Refrigerator that fits your needs and your budget. We’ll break down what makes a good one, what to look for, and how to avoid common mistakes. So, let’s dive in and find the refrigerator that will make your kitchen life a whole lot easier!
Our Top 5 Rated Side By Side Refrigerator Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Rated Side By Side Refrigerator Detailed Reviews
1. Kenmore 36″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Freezer – Accela Chill
Rating: 8.7/10
The Kenmore 36″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Freezer is a smart addition to any kitchen. It offers a sleek, fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish that looks great and is easy to keep clean. This refrigerator is designed to fit seamlessly into your kitchen with its counter-depth design, giving you more floor space. It’s also ENERGY STAR certified, which means it’s good for your wallet and the environment. Families and those who love to entertain will appreciate its generous 20 cu. ft. capacity.
What We Like:
- The Accela Chill feature quickly cools down your groceries.
- The Multi-Flow Air System keeps food fresh on every shelf.
- You get instant access to filtered water and ice with the dispenser.
- The adjustable, edge-to-edge glass shelves are spill-proof and easy to clean.
- Bright LED lights make it easy to find everything.
- The fingerprint-resistant finish stays looking good with minimal effort.
- Its counter-depth design saves valuable kitchen space.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the 20 cu. ft. capacity a bit small if they store a lot of frozen items.
- While efficient, the inverter compressor’s quietness might be a subjective point for some.
This Kenmore refrigerator combines style, smart features, and efficiency. It’s a practical choice for keeping your food fresh and your kitchen looking modern.
2. Hamilton Beach HBF2064 20.6 cu ft Counter Depth Full Size Refrigerator
Rating: 8.7/10
The Hamilton Beach HBF2064 20.6 cu ft Counter Depth Full Size Refrigerator in Stainless Steel is a smart choice for busy families. It offers plenty of space and thoughtful features to keep your food fresh and organized. Its sleek design also helps it blend seamlessly into your kitchen.
What We Like:
- LARGE CAPACITY: With 20.6 cubic feet of space, it holds a lot of food for everyone in the family.
- SIDE-BY-SIDE DOOR DESIGN: You can easily see and grab both your fresh and frozen items. This makes finding what you need super quick.
- DIGITAL DISPLAY: Adjusting the temperature for the fridge and freezer is simple. The control panel is right inside the door.
- OVERSIZE DOOR BINS: The door bins are big enough for gallons of milk or juice. You can store lots of drinks and condiments.
- INTERIOR LIGHTING: Bright LED lights shine everywhere inside. You can see all your food clearly, even in the back.
- COUNTER DEPTH: This fridge is less than 30 inches deep. It sits nicely against your cabinets and doesn’t stick out too far.
- DELIVERY OPTIONS: You can get it delivered right to your door. Some areas offer setup and old fridge removal, which is a big help.
What Could Be Improved:
- The digital display is located inside the refrigerator. Some users might prefer it on the outside for quicker adjustments.
- While the capacity is large, the counter-depth design means internal storage might be slightly less than a full-depth model of the same cubic footage.
This Hamilton Beach refrigerator offers a great balance of capacity, convenience, and style for modern kitchens. It’s a solid appliance that makes keeping your food organized a breeze.
3. Hamilton Beach HBF1558 15.6 cu ft Counter Depth Full Size Refrigerator
Rating: 9.0/10
The Hamilton Beach HBF1558 15.6 cu ft Counter Depth Full Size Refrigerator with Side Doors in Stainless Steel is a smart choice for busy families. It offers plenty of space for all your groceries. The sleek stainless steel finish looks great in any kitchen. You can easily see and grab your food with its thoughtful design.
What We Like:
- LARGE CAPACITY: 15.6 cu ft of space is perfect for feeding everyone.
- OVERSIZE DOOR BINS: Gallon-sized bins hold lots of drinks and condiments.
- DIGITAL DISPLAY: Easily control temperature settings from inside the fridge.
- SIDE-BY-SIDE DESIGN: Quickly find your fresh and frozen items.
- ADJUSTABLE SHELVES: You can change the shelf height and remove them.
- BUILT-IN LAMP: The interior light helps you spot food fast.
- DELIVERY OPTIONS: Delivery and haul-away services are available in some areas.
What Could Be Improved:
- The digital display is located inside the refrigerator door, which might be less convenient for some users.
- Delivery and haul-away options are not available everywhere.
This refrigerator offers great storage and helpful features for keeping your food organized. It’s a solid option for families needing more fridge and freezer space.
4. Forno Salerno 36″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator and Freezer with 20 Cubic Ft.- Stainless Steel French Door Built-In Ice Maker Fridge
Rating: 9.3/10
The Forno Salerno 36″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator and Freezer is a stylish and functional addition to any kitchen. This stainless steel French door fridge offers a generous 20 cubic feet of total space, keeping your groceries fresh and organized with its smart features.
What We Like:
- Ample fresh food storage with 3 adjustable glass shelves and crisper drawers.
- Convenient French door design allows easy access to fridge items.
- Two spacious freezer drawers and side-door shelves keep frozen goods organized.
- Built-in ice maker provides both solid and crushed ice.
- Intelligent chip temperature control and digital display ensure perfect food temperatures.
- User-friendly electronic touch controls on the door.
- Interior LED lighting makes it easy to see everything inside.
- Child lock, vacation mode, and Sabbath mode offer added convenience and safety.
- Energy-efficient with an E-star rating.
What Could Be Improved:
- The soft alert sound for an open door might be missed by some.
- The dark grey side cabinet and white interior accents might not match all kitchen decors.
The Forno Salerno refrigerator is a solid choice for families needing a large, feature-rich appliance. It combines style with practical storage solutions for your kitchen.
5. 27 cu. ft. Side by Side Smart Refrigerator w/InstaView and Craft Ice in PrintProof Stainless Steel
Rating: 9.0/10
Get ready to upgrade your kitchen with the 27 cu. ft. Side by Side Smart Refrigerator. This fridge offers a huge amount of space for all your groceries. It also has cool features like InstaView, so you can see inside without opening the door. Plus, it makes round Craft Ice for your drinks! The PrintProof Stainless Steel finish looks super stylish and resists fingerprints.
What We Like:
- The large 27 cu. ft. capacity holds a lot of food.
- InstaView lets you peek inside easily.
- Craft Ice makes fun, round ice cubes.
- The PrintProof Stainless Steel looks great and is easy to keep clean.
- It’s a smart refrigerator, connecting to your phone.
- You get a lot of great features for the price.
What Could Be Improved:
- The smart features might take a little time to learn.
- Some users might find the side-by-side layout limits space for very tall items.
This refrigerator is a fantastic choice for families who need lots of storage and love smart kitchen tech. It offers premium features without the premium price tag.
Your Guide to Finding the Best Side-By-Side Refrigerator
Choosing a new refrigerator is a big decision. A side-by-side refrigerator offers a great way to organize your food. This guide will help you understand what to look for.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a side-by-side refrigerator, keep these important features in mind.
Storage and Space
- **Capacity:** How much food do you need to store? Look at the cubic feet. Bigger families need more space.
- **Adjustable Shelves:** These let you move shelves up or down. This helps you fit tall items like milk jugs or large platters.
- **Door Bins:** Deep door bins are great for bottles and condiments. Some bins can hold gallons.
- **Crisper Drawers:** These drawers keep fruits and vegetables fresh. Some have humidity controls.
Cooling and Freshness
- **Dual Evaporators:** Some models have separate cooling systems for the fridge and freezer. This keeps air from transferring between them. It helps keep food fresh longer.
- **Temperature Control:** Look for refrigerators with digital temperature controls. This allows precise adjustments.
- **Air Filtration:** Some refrigerators have filters that remove odors. This keeps your fridge smelling fresh.
Convenience and Extras
- **Ice Maker and Water Dispenser:** Many side-by-side models have these. Check if it dispenses crushed ice too. Some have internal dispensers to save space.
- **Smart Features:** Some refrigerators connect to Wi-Fi. You can control them with an app on your phone.
- **Lighting:** Bright LED lighting helps you see everything inside.
2. Important Materials
The materials used in a refrigerator affect its look and how long it lasts.
Exterior Finishes
- **Stainless Steel:** This is very popular. It looks modern and is durable. Fingerprint-resistant finishes are a great choice.
- **Black Stainless Steel:** This offers a sleek, dark look.
- **White or Black:** These are classic colors. They are usually more affordable.
Interior Materials
- **Glass Shelves:** These are easy to clean. Tempered glass is strong.
- **Plastic Drawers and Bins:** Look for sturdy, BPA-free plastic.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a refrigerator work better, while others can cause problems.
Quality Boosters
- **Good Insulation:** This helps keep the temperature stable. It also saves energy.
- **Reliable Compressor:** The compressor is the heart of the refrigerator. A good one lasts a long time.
- **Brand Reputation:** Brands known for quality often use better parts.
Quality Reducers
- **Cheaply Made Parts:** Plastic parts that feel flimsy may break easily.
- **Poor Sealing:** Gaps in the door seals let cold air escape. This makes the refrigerator work harder.
- **Noisy Operation:** A refrigerator that makes a lot of noise might have a less efficient motor.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you will use your refrigerator every day.
For Busy Families
Side-by-side refrigerators are great for families. The separate freezer and fridge doors make it easy to grab snacks and drinks. The ice and water dispenser is a hit with kids. The organized shelves help everyone find what they need quickly.
For Apartment Living
If you have limited kitchen space, a counter-depth side-by-side refrigerator looks sleek. It doesn’t stick out too far. Many offer good storage for their size.
For Those Who Entertain
If you often host parties, you need a refrigerator that can handle a lot of food. Look for models with large capacities and flexible storage options. Good lighting helps you see everything you’ve prepared.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main difference between a side-by-side and a French door refrigerator?
A: In a side-by-side, the freezer is on one side, and the refrigerator is on the other. In a French door, both refrigerator doors open from the middle, and the freezer is a pull-out drawer below.
Q: Are side-by-side refrigerators energy efficient?
A: Many newer side-by-side refrigerators are very energy efficient. Look for the ENERGY STAR label. This means they meet strict energy-saving standards.
Q: How do I clean my side-by-side refrigerator?
A: You should unplug the refrigerator first. Then, remove shelves and drawers. Wash them with warm, soapy water. Wipe down the interior and exterior with a soft cloth. Make sure to clean the door seals.
Q: What is a good capacity for a side-by-side refrigerator?
A: For a small family (1-2 people), 18-22 cubic feet is often enough. For a larger family (4+ people), aim for 25 cubic feet or more.
Q: Do side-by-side refrigerators have water filters?
A: Yes, most models with water dispensers have built-in water filters. These need to be replaced every 6 months or so.
Q: How long do side-by-side refrigerators typically last?
A: With good care, a side-by-side refrigerator can last 10 to 15 years. Regular cleaning and maintenance help it last longer.
Q: What does “counter-depth” mean for a refrigerator?
A: Counter-depth means the refrigerator is not as deep as a standard model. It sits closer to your kitchen cabinets for a more built-in look.
Q: Can I install a side-by-side refrigerator myself?
A: Installing the refrigerator itself is usually straightforward. However, connecting the water line for the ice maker and dispenser requires some plumbing knowledge. Many people hire a professional for this part.
Q: What are the pros of a side-by-side refrigerator?
A: Pros include easy access to both fridge and freezer items, good organization, and often a built-in ice and water dispenser.
Q: What are the cons of a side-by-side refrigerator?
A: Cons can include narrower shelves, which may not fit wide items like pizza boxes, and sometimes less freezer space compared to other styles.
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!