The best side by side built in refrigerator offers unparalleled kitchen aesthetics, sophisticated food preservation, and convenient access for modern households. Choosing the right model is crucial, as subpar units can lead to inefficient energy consumption, inconsistent cooling that impacts food quality, and a less integrated, cohesive kitchen design. Factors like capacity, advanced temperature management systems, ice and water dispensing features, and noise levels significantly differentiate performance and user satisfaction.
With numerous options available, understanding these nuances ensures you invest in a unit that enhances your kitchen’s functionality and visual appeal for years to come. Explore our curated selection to find the ideal built-in refrigerator that perfectly suits your culinary needs and design aspirations.
For a spacious and organized kitchen, the best side by side built in refrigerator often features a large capacity, such as the Samsung 27.4 cu. ft. option, providing ample room for groceries with a sleek, modern design.
Counter-depth models like the Frigidaire Professional 36 in. 22.3 cu.
ft. offer a streamlined look without sacrificing storage flexibility, featuring adjustable shelving and generous door bins.
Best Side by Side Built In Refrigerators: At a Glance
| Image | Product | Buy |
|---|---|---|
Best Pick 1  | Whirlpool 33 Inch Freestanding Side by Side Refrigerator with 21.72 Best for: Standard kitchens | Check Price |
Best Pick 2  | Frigidaire Professional 36 in. 22.3 cu. ft. Counter Depth Side-by-Side Best for: Seamless kitchens | Check Price |
Best Pick 3  | Frigidaire 33″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator with 22.2 cu. ft. Total Capacity, Best for: Mid-size kitchens | Check Price |
Best Pick 4  | Samsung 27.4 cu. ft. Large Capacity Side-By-Side Refrigerator, Stainless Steel, Best for: Generous storage | Check Price |
Best Pick 5  | GE Profile 25.3 cu. ft. Side by Side Refrigerator in Best for: Premium features | Check Price |
How We Picked
To identify the best side by side built in refrigerator, we prioritized build quality, real-world performance, safety, durability, and standout features. We evaluated capacities ranging from 21.72 cu. ft.
(Whirlpool) to 27.4 cu. ft.
(Samsung). Counter-depth options like the Frigidaire Professional were noted for space efficiency. We ruled out models lacking detailed feature sets or falling short on capacity.
Our selection considered crucial elements like energy efficiency (ENERGY STAR certified Frigidaire) and adaptable storage solutions crucial for modern households up to 2026.
What Most Buyers Get Wrong
Understanding Cubic Feet for Your Needs
When looking at side-by-side refrigerators, cubic footage tells a significant story about storage. While models like the Samsung 27.4 cu. ft.
or LG 27 cu. ft.
offer considerable space for bulk grocery shopping, consider your household size and typical purchases. A smaller family might find the Whirlpool 21.72 cu. ft.
or Frigidaire 22.2 cu. ft.
models perfectly adequate, especially if they prioritize flexible interior shelving for taller items, as seen in the Whirlpool model.
Counter Depth vs. Standard Depth Fit
The distinction between counter-depth and standard-depth side-by-side refrigerators is crucial for achieving a seamless built-in look. Counter-depth models, like the Frigidaire Professional 36 in. 22.3 cu.
ft., are designed to align flush with your existing cabinetry, preventing the appliance from protruding too far into your kitchen pathway. Standard-depth units, such as the GE Profile 25.3 cu.
ft., offer greater interior capacity but will extend further from the wall, impacting traffic flow.
1. Whirlpool 33 Inch Freestanding Side by Side Refrigerator with 21.72
Best for: Spacious storage for large families.
This Whirlpool refrigerator offers 21.72 cu. ft. of capacity, providing ample room for groceries through adjustable shelving and gallon door bins for organized placement of drinks.
Featuring 6 shelves and 4 door bins, this compact side-by-side model allows for flexible storage of tall items. Its automatic defrost system maintains consistent temperatures while the bright LED lighting ensures easy visibility of all contents.
Pros
- 21.72 cu. ft. spacious capacity for groceries
- Adjustable shelving for customizable storage
- Gallon door bins accommodate large items
- Bright LED lighting for improved visibility
Cons
- Icemaker sold separately, requiring an additional purchase for ice production.
Ideal for households needing significant refrigerator space for daily essentials. The customizable shelves are perfect for adapting to varied grocery loads.
2. Frigidaire Professional 36 in. 22.3 cu. ft. Counter Depth Side-by-Side
Best for: Streamlined kitchen with integrated convenience.
The Frigidaire Professional 36-inch Counter Depth model at 22.3 cu. ft. integrates seamlessly into your kitchen, offering substantial refrigerator and freezer space without protruding.
This ENERGY STAR certified refrigerator provides 14.3 cu. ft. for fresh food and 8 cu. ft. for frozen items, with 3 main shelves and 4 door shelves. The external ice and water dispenser delivers chilled filtered water and ice with a touch.
Pros
- 22.3 cu ft counter-depth capacity saves kitchen space
- ENERGY STAR Certified for efficient operation
- External ice and water dispenser for convenience
- EvenTemp Cooling System for consistent temperatures
Cons
- Lacks adjustable temperature control for precise food preservation.
A great choice for homeowners seeking a sleek, built-in look with convenient access to chilled water and ice. Its counter-depth design suits modern kitchen layouts.
3. Frigidaire 33″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator with 22.2 cu. ft. Total Capacity,
Best for: Efficient cooling for everyday needs.
With 22.2 cu. ft. of total capacity, this Frigidaire 33″ Side-by-Side refrigerator ensures sufficient space for your family’s food storage requirements.
This model features 3 wire shelves and 3 racks, offering durable and flexible storage options. The compressor cooling method provides reliable temperature management throughout the unit.
Pros
- 22.2 cu. ft. total capacity for ample storage
- Wire shelves offer durable and easy-to-clean surfaces
- Automatic defrost system helps prevent ice buildup
- Compressor cooling ensures consistent operation
Cons
- It does not offer adjustable temperature control for specific food zones.
Suitable for families looking for a standard-sized refrigerator with a straightforward design. Its automatic defrost is ideal for low-maintenance operation.
4. Samsung 27.4 cu. ft. Large Capacity Side-By-Side Refrigerator, Stainless Steel,
Best for: Large capacity with modern kitchen integration.
Samsung’s 27.4 cu. ft. side-by-side refrigerator boasts a redesigned interior offering 10% more grocery capacity and a fingerprint-resistant finish for a clean look.
This refrigerator features 4 adjustable shelves, accommodating items of various sizes, and 2 door shelves. The Multi-Vent technology ensures even cooling across all 4 shelves, while the indoor icemaker maximizes storage space.
Pros
- 27.4 cu. ft. large capacity for extensive groceries
- Fingerprint-resistant finish simplifies cleaning
- All-Around Cooling ensures even temperature distribution
- Indoor icemaker frees up shelf space
Cons
- No adjustable temperature control within the main compartments.
Perfect for large households needing maximum storage and a contemporary kitchen aesthetic. The fingerprint-resistant exterior is a practical benefit for busy families.
5. GE Profile 25.3 cu. ft. Side by Side Refrigerator in
Best for: Ample organization and external dispenser convenience.
The GE Profile 25.3 cu. ft. side-by-side refrigerator simplifies access to chilled water and ice with its convenient external dispenser.
This model offers 25.3 cu. ft. of total capacity, supported by 4 adjustable shelves and 4 door bins for organized food storage. ENERGY STAR certification and an estimated annual consumption of 643 kWh indicate efficient operation.
Pros
- 25.3 cu. ft. total capacity for generous storage
- External water and ice dispenser for instant access
- Adjustable temperature control for precise settings
- ENERGY STAR certified for energy efficiency
Cons
- The customizable features are limited on this model.
This refrigerator is ideal for those who prioritize quick access to filtered water and ice, alongside substantial, well-organized storage. Its energy efficiency is a plus for budget-conscious households.
6. Samsung 26.7 Cu. Ft. Large Capacity Side-By-Side Refrigerator with Family
Best for: Smart home integration and modern seamless look.
Samsung’s 26.7 Cu. Ft. side-by-side refrigerator features a flat panel door with recessed handles, creating a modern, built-in appearance that integrates smoothly into cabinetry.
Offering 27.4 cu. ft. of capacity across 4 adjustable shelves and 2 sections, this refrigerator utilizes Multi-Vent technology for consistent cooling. It includes Alexa Built-In and App Control for smart home functionality.
Pros
- 26.7 cu. ft. large capacity for groceries
- Flat panel door with recessed handles for a built-in look
- Multi-Vent technology for even cooling
- Smart features including Alexa Built-In and App Control
Cons
- This unit does not feature an external water or ice dispenser.
Best for tech-savvy homeowners seeking a stylish refrigerator that complements modern cabinetry and offers smart home convenience. The large capacity suits busy households.
7. LG 27 cu. ft. Side-by-Side Standard Depth Slim in Door
Best for: Slim design with smart capabilities.
The LG 27 cu. ft. Side-by-Side refrigerator features a slim design and is Wi-Fi enabled, offering integrated smart home compatibility for modern convenience.
This refrigerator includes a water dispenser and touch controls for easy operation. It provides ample storage space with multiple shelves and door bins, ensuring all your food items are easily accessible.
Pros
- 27 cu. ft. capacity offers generous storage
- Slim design fits well in various kitchen layouts
- Wi-Fi enabled for smart home integration
- Water dispenser for convenient access to chilled water
Cons
- This model does not have adjustable temperature control.
Suitable for individuals or families looking for a spacious refrigerator with modern connectivity and a sleek profile. The integrated water dispenser is a practical daily feature.
8. 27 cu. ft. Side by Side Smart Refrigerator w/InstaView and
Best for: Smart technology with quiet operation.
This 27 cu. ft. Smart Refrigerator with InstaView technology allows you to see inside with a simple knock, reducing cold air loss and enhancing energy efficiency.
Featuring 6 shelves and 4 door shelves, this refrigerator offers substantial storage capacity. It utilizes a compressor cooling method and offers adjustable temperature control for optimal food preservation, with a quiet operational design.
Pros
- 27 cu. ft. large capacity for extensive storage
- InstaView feature for quick item visibility
- Adjustable temperature control for precise settings
- Quiet operation ensures a peaceful kitchen environment
Cons
- The shelf configuration is fixed and not customizable.
An excellent choice for anyone who values smart technology and energy efficiency in their kitchen appliances. The InstaView panel is ideal for quickly checking contents without opening the door.
9. Frigidaire FRQG1721AV 17.4 Cubic Foot Refrigerator, Silver
Best for: Versatile storage with dual cooling technology.
The Frigidaire FRQG1721AV refrigerator features TwinTech dual evaporators, preserving freshness with independent temperature and humidity control in both the refrigerator and freezer.
This model offers 17.4 cu. ft. of storage, with 3 glass shelves and 2 crisper drawers for fruits and vegetables. Gallon-sized door bins provide ample space for beverages and condiments.
Pros
- 17.4 cu. ft. capacity suits moderate needs
- TwinTech dual evaporators preserve freshness
- 2 Store-More crisper drawers for produce
- Adjustable glass shelves for flexible organization
Cons
- This Frigidaire is a French Door model, not a side-by-side.
This refrigerator is a strong option for those who prioritize advanced food preservation and flexible storage in a moderately sized appliance. The dual cooling systems are beneficial for long-term freshness.
10. Samsung 24 Cu. Ft. Bespoke Counter Depth 3-Door French Door
Best for: Customizable design and dual ice maker.
Samsung’s 24 Cu. Ft. Bespoke Counter Depth 3-Door French Door refrigerator allows for color customization with changeable door panels, fitting your unique style.
This refrigerator features a built-in autofill water pitcher and a dual ice maker with Ice Bites for versatile beverage cooling. It provides 4 shelves and 12 door shelves for organized storage, with adjustable temperature control.
Pros
- 24 cu. ft. capacity offers good storage
- Bespoke design with customizable door panels
- Autofill water pitcher for convenience
- Dual ice maker with Ice Bites provides ice variety
Cons
- This is a French Door model, not a side-by-side refrigerator.
An ideal choice for homeowners seeking a highly customizable appliance that blends style with advanced features like an autofill pitcher and dual ice maker. Its counter-depth design ensures a flush fit.
Capacity vs. Footprint in Built-In Refrigerators
The primary differentiator among high-end built-in side-by-side refrigerators, obscuring crucial functional differences, is not feature set but the precise trade-off between true interior volume and the exterior cabinetry it occupies.
Buyers fixated solely on cubic footage, often citing the Samsung 27.4 cu. ft. or Samsung 26.7 Cu.
Ft. Large Capacity Side-by-Side Refrigerator for their sheer volume, overlook how that capacity is achieved.
While attractive on paper, these larger door swings and deeper profiles can intrude upon usable kitchen pathways, particularly in smaller or more traditionally laid-out spaces. A refrigerator is only truly functional if you can access its contents without banging into countertops or blocking the adjacent doorway. The Frigidaire Professional 36 in.
22.3 cu. ft.
Counter Depth Side-by-Side, for instance, explicitly addresses this by prioritizing a counter-depth design, meaning its overall depth is reduced to align more seamlessly with standard cabinet depths. This choice might present slightly less gross volume than the largest Samsung models, but the usable space within a defined kitchen layout often proves superior.
The GE Profile 25.3 cu. ft. Side by Side Refrigerator and the Whirlpool 33 Inch Freestanding Side by Side Refrigerator with 21.72 cu.
ft. offer further illustration.
The Whirlpool, while having less stated capacity, maintains a standard depth that can sometimes feel more cavernous than a counter-depth model of slightly higher stated cubic footage, owing to its less recessed placement. Conversely, the GE Profile occupies a middle ground, offering a substantial 25.3 cu. ft.
within a design often featuring shallower depths and often integrated with a water dispenser that can be recessed. The key takeaway is that you must measure not just the refrigerator’s dimensions, but the dimensions of your kitchen workflow.
A refrigerator that is objectively larger but disrupts traffic flow is ultimately less useful than one that respects the practical constraints of its environment.
Furthermore, consider the actual usable layout within the stated capacity. While the LG 27 cu. ft.
Side-by-Side Standard Depth Slim in Door might claim a generous volume, its internal configuration, adjustable shelving practicality, and the thickness of its insulation and internal components will dictate how much fresh produce and frozen goods you can realistically store. The specification that matters most for a best side by side built in refrigerator is not the raw cubic footage, but how that volume is packaged to minimize encroachment on your kitchen’s physical and functional space.
For kitchens where minimizing protrusion is paramount, the Frigidaire Professional 36 in. 22.3 cu. ft.
Counter Depth Side-by-Side presents the most sensible volume-to-footprint management.
How to Choose the Best Side by Side Built In Refrigerator
Capacity and configuration options
When selecting your built-in side-by-side refrigerator, prioritize capacity that matches your household size and eating habits. For efficient storage, look for models offering 25-30 cubic feet of total volume, with a refrigerator-to-freezer split around 60/40 or 70/30 for most families. Opt for adjustable glass shelves and humidity-controlled crisper drawers for superior organization and food preservation.
Door-in-door access is a valuable feature for frequent access to beverages and condiments, reducing energy loss. Choose a configuration that allows for easy access to frequently used items daily.
For families needing ample fresh food storage alongside frozen goods, a larger refrigerator compartment with the 70/30 split is the clear winner.
Integrated dispenser and ice maker features
Consider an integrated dispenser that streamlines beverage preparation and ice access, enhancing kitchen convenience. A multi-stage water filtration system, removing common contaminants, is essential for pure-tasting water and ice. For households that consume ice regularly, an ice maker capable of producing 3-5 pounds per day ensures you won’t run out.
A straightforward dispenser interface, whether capacitive touch or tactile buttons, offers ease of use. An ice maker located inside the refrigerator compartment, rather than within the freezer, provides more consistent ice production and easier access.
For busy households requiring readily available filtered water and ice, this integrated approach is the optimal choice.
Smart technology and user interface
Equip your kitchen with smart technology that offers advanced control and convenience. Models featuring Wi-Fi connectivity and app integration allow for remote temperature monitoring and adjustments, ensuring optimal food preservation. Internal cameras provide a clear view of your refrigerator’s contents from anywhere, simplifying grocery shopping.
Precise temperature control, via multiple evaporators or advanced sensor systems, guarantees consistent cooling across all compartments. Built-in diagnostic capabilities through smart features alert you to potential issues before they become problems.
For the tech-savvy individual who values remote management and proactive maintenance, smart connectivity and internal cameras are indispensable.
Which Should You Choose?
- If you have a smaller kitchen and want to maximize your usable space, choose a counter-depth model.
- If you regularly host large gatherings or have a big family, look for models boasting over 25 cu. ft. of capacity.
- If you have specific organizational needs or frequently store tall containers, prioritize models with highly adjustable shelving and door bins.
- If you’re looking for a sleek, modern aesthetic that blends seamlessly with your cabinetry, opt for a model with a flat panel door design and recessed handles.
Quick Best Side By Side Built In Refrigerator Buying Checklist
- Measure Carefully: Ensure precise ¿s dimensions for the cutout space, including depth for door swing and ventilation clearance.
- Assess Capacity Needs: Determine the ideal cubic footage based on household size and typical grocery shopping habits.
- Prioritize Dispenser Features: Decide if internal or external water/ice dispensers are a priority, and check filter types.
- Evaluate Energy Efficiency Ratings: Look for Energy Star certification to minimize electricity consumption and utility bills.
- Consider Noise Levels: Built-in models often operate more quietly, but check decibel ratings if this is a concern.
- Check Interior Lighting: Opt for bright, even LED lighting that illuminates all corners of the refrigerator and freezer compartments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Makes A Side-By-Side Refrigerator Great For Built-In Installations?
Built-in side-by-side refrigerators offer a seamless, integrated look when installed flush with cabinetry. Their balanced compartment sizes provide easy access to both fresh and frozen items, making them a versatile choice for modern kitchen designs.
How Much Freezer Space Can I Expect In A Typical Built-In Side-By-Side?
Most built-in side-by-side refrigerators offer approximately 40-50% of their total capacity to the freezer compartment. This balance ensures ample room for frozen goods without sacrificing significant refrigerator space, accommodating most family needs.
Are Built-In Side-By-Side Refrigerators Energy Efficient?
Many modern built-in side-by-side refrigerators are designed with energy efficiency in mind, often featuring Energy Star ratings. Advanced cooling systems and superior insulation help maintain optimal temperatures while reducing power consumption.
What Is The Advantage Of A Door-In-Door Feature On A Side-By-Side Refrigerator?
A door-in-door feature provides quick access to frequently used items without opening the main refrigerator door. This design minimizes cold air loss, helping to maintain consistent internal temperatures and potentially saving energy.
Can I Install A Water Dispenser On Any Built-In Side-By-Side Refrigerator?
While many built-in side-by-side refrigerators come equipped with water dispensers, it’s essential to check the specific model. Features can range from internal to external dispensers, with variations in ice type and filtration systems available.
Final Words
Investing in the best side by side built in refrigerator can dramatically elevate your kitchen’s aesthetics and functionality. These units offer superior integration, convenient dual-compartment access, and often advanced cooling technologies. By choosing a model that fits your space and lifestyle, you’ll enjoy a blend of style and practicality for years to come.