The best fridge freezer side by side combo offers expansive, easily accessible refrigeration and freezing capacity for busy households and culinary enthusiasts. Selecting the right unit ensures optimal food preservation, energy efficiency, and seamless kitchen integration. However, variations in cooling technology, storage configurations, smart features, and build quality mean a suboptimal choice can lead to wasted energy, reduced shelf life for groceries, and operational annoyances.
With numerous models on the market, discerning the perfect fit requires careful consideration of your specific needs and kitchen workflow. To help you navigate these options and make an informed decision, we’ve curated a list of the top 10 best fridge freezer side by side combo units available, covering a range of features and benefits to suit every home.
The best fridge freezer side by side combo often prioritizes spacious, organized storage, such as the Frigidaire Professional 36 in. 22.3 cu. ft.
Counter Depth Side-by-Side, which offers 14.3 cu ft of fresh food and 8 cu ft of freezer space. For smaller spaces, options like the Frigidaire, 2 Door Apartment Size Refrigerator/Freezer Combo with 7.5 cu.
ft. capacity provide ample room for essentials in a compact form.
Best Fridge Freezer Side by Side Combos at a Glance
| Image | Product | Buy |
|---|---|---|
Best Pick 1  | Frigidaire, 2 Door Apartment Size Refrigerator/Freezer Combo, 7.5 cu ft, Best for: Apartment refrigerators | Check Price |
Best Pick 2  | PROFESSIONAL Stainless Steel Refrigerator Freezer Combo & Trim FPRU19F8WF FPFU19F8WF Best for: Professional kitchens | Check Price |
Best Pick 3  | Frigidaire -5.4 Cu. Ft. – Side by Side 2-Door – Best for: Compact kitchens | Check Price |
Best Pick 4  | Midea WHD-113FSS1 Double Door Mini Fridge with Freezer for Bedroom Best for: Bedroom mini-fridges | Check Price |
Best Pick 5  | Frigidaire Retro Apartment Size Refrigerator with Top Freezer – 2 Best for: Retro kitchens | Check Price |
How We Picked
To determine the best fridge freezer side by side combo, we prioritized build quality, real-world performance, and durability. We rigorously evaluated each model based on customer feedback, focusing on aspects like consistent temperature control and reliable operation. Standout features such as internal ice makers and organized storage solutions were significant differentiators.
Smaller, lower-capacity units like the Midea WHD-113FSS1 and some compact Frigidaire models, while potentially adequate for specific needs, were generally ruled out for this comparison as they lacked the comprehensive functionality of larger, more feature-rich options.
What Most Buyers Get Wrong
Fridge vs. Freezer Column Configuration Clarity
When choosing a side-by-side, pay close attention to whether you’re looking at a true refrigerator and freezer column pair (like the PROFESSIONAL Stainless Steel models) or a single unit with divided compartments. Columns offer the most flexibility and often larger capacities, ideal for serious food storage needs. Single units, like the Frigidaire 7.5 cu ft models, are more compact but the freezer space is inherently smaller and less customizable compared to dedicated freezer columns.
Counter-Depth vs. Standard Depth Practicality
For a seamless kitchen aesthetic, counter-depth side-by-side refrigerators are a key consideration. Models like the Frigidaire Professional 36 in. offer this feature, meaning they sit flush with your cabinetry, preventing the appliance from protruding into your walkway.
While standard-depth models, such as some of the apartment-sized Frigidaires, may offer more cubic footage for the same width, they can disrupt the flow of your kitchen, especially in smaller spaces.
1. Frigidaire, 2 Door Apartment Size Refrigerator/Freezer Combo, 7.5 cu ft,
Best for: Apartment-sized, full-featured refrigeration.
With a 7.5 cu. ft. capacity, this Frigidaire apartment size refrigerator provides ample space for all your essentials, easily keeping everything at your fingertips. It features a dedicated freezer compartment for your frozen goods. This model is ideal for smaller kitchens or as a secondary unit.
This refrigerator-freezer combo offers organized convenience with three removable glass shelves, a transparent crisper, and one full-width door bin. Its compressor cooling method ensures efficient temperature management, and it has a manual defrost system. The unit operates on 120 Volts and features a rotary scroll compressor.
Pros
- 7.5 cu. ft. total capacity
- Removable glass shelves
- Transparent crisper drawer
- Reversible door orientation
Cons
- Manual defrost system requires periodic manual thawing.
This Frigidaire is perfect for apartment dwellers or those needing extra cold storage in a compact footprint. Its organized interior allows for easy access to both fresh and frozen items.
2. PROFESSIONAL Stainless Steel Refrigerator Freezer Combo & Trim FPRU19F8WF FPFU19F8WF
Best for: Professional installation for twin units.
This PROFESSIONAL stainless steel refrigerator and freezer column pair offers a combined capacity of 37.2 cu. ft. across two distinct 33-inch units, providing ample space for large households and extensive food storage. Each column features digital temperature control for precise management.
The refrigerator column boasts 18.6 cu. ft. capacity with an internal water dispenser, while the freezer column also offers 18.6 cu. ft. with an internal ice maker. Both units are 79 inches tall and require a specific trim kit and pairing kit for side-by-side installation, ensuring a sleek, built-in look.
Pros
- Massive 37.2 cu. ft. combined capacity
- Separate refrigerator and freezer columns
- Internal ice maker and water dispenser
- Digital temperature control
Cons
- Requires professional installation and specific pairing/trim kits.
For those seeking a high-capacity, integrated look, these professional Frigidaire columns are an excellent choice. They are designed for users who value precise temperature control and convenient features like an internal ice maker.
3. Frigidaire -5.4 Cu. Ft. – Side by Side 2-Door –
Best for: Compact, budget-friendly side-by-side.
This Frigidaire compact side-by-side refrigerator and freezer combo offers a total capacity of 5.4 cu. ft., with 3.3 cu. ft. dedicated to the refrigerator and 2.2 cu. ft. for the freezer. It moves food storage to a more accessible level within its compact design.
The refrigerator section includes two removable and adjustable glass shelves plus door bins for organized storage, and a vegetable crisper with a glass cover. It operates on 110 Volts with a compressor cooling method and manual defrost system, featuring three total shelves. The unit has a unique French door orientation on the refrigerator section.
Pros
- 5.4 cu. ft. total capacity
- Adjustable glass shelves in refrigerator
- Vegetable crisper with glass cover
- Compact footprint
Cons
- Manual defrost system requires manual thawing for the freezer.
Ideal for small living spaces or as an extra fridge, this Frigidaire provides a convenient side-by-side layout in a compact size. Its organized interior and crisper drawer help keep groceries fresh.
4. Midea WHD-113FSS1 Double Door Mini Fridge with Freezer for Bedroom
Best for: Mini fridge for personal beverages and snacks.
The Midea WHD-113FSS1 is a double-door mini fridge with a 3.1 cu. ft. capacity, perfect for keeping beverages and snacks cool in minimal space. Its compact dimensions of 18.519.3732.95 inches make it suitable for garages, apartments, or dorm rooms.
This unit offers a freezer capacity of 0.92 cu. ft. and a fridge capacity of 2.16 cu. ft., featuring two wire shelves and one door shelf for organization. It utilizes mechanical adjustable thermostats for easy temperature control and operates on 120 Volts with a compressor cooling method and manual defrost.
Pros
- 3.1 cu. ft. compact capacity
- Separate freezer and fridge compartments
- Adjustable mechanical thermostats
- Double-door design
Cons
- Manual defrost system requires manual thawing for the freezer.
This Midea mini fridge is a solid choice for keeping drinks and small food items chilled in tight spaces like a dorm room or office. Its dual doors provide easy access to both the refrigerator and freezer sections.
5. Frigidaire Retro Apartment Size Refrigerator with Top Freezer – 2
Best for: Retro style with apartment-friendly capacity.
This Frigidaire retro apartment size refrigerator boasts a 7.5 cu. ft. capacity, offering ample space for chilled goods and a separate freezer compartment for frozen items. Its classic design adds a touch of vintage style to any kitchen or small living area.
Inside, you’ll find three recessed shelves, a transparent crisper, and a full-width door bin for organized storage. This model operates on 120 Volts with a rotary scroll compressor and uses a manual defrost system, supporting easy customization with adjustable leveling legs.
Pros
- 7.5 cu. ft. total capacity
- Separate freezer compartment
- Retro design aesthetic
- Adjustable leveling legs
Cons
- Manual defrost requires periodic manual thawing.
Perfect for those who appreciate a retro aesthetic combined with modern functionality, this Frigidaire unit is suited for apartments or as a stylish secondary fridge. The clear crisper helps maintain vegetable freshness.
6. Frigidaire Retro Compact Fridge Freezer Combo, 3.1 cu. ft. Capacity,
Best for: Compact retro fridge for small spaces.
This Frigidaire retro compact fridge freezer combo provides 3.1 cu. ft. of storage capacity, perfect for keeping your favorite food and beverages cool. It combines easy-to-use features with a retro and practical design that complements any kitchen.
The unit features a full-width, fixed wire freezer shelf and door bin for organized frozen food storage, illuminated by bright incandescent lighting. It operates on 110 Volts with a rotary scroll compressor and manual defrost system, totaling two shelves in the refrigerator section.
Pros
- 3.1 cu. ft. compact capacity
- Retro design
- Illuminated freezer compartment
- Fixed wire freezer shelf
Cons
- Manual defrost system requires periodic manual thawing for the freezer.
This compact Frigidaire fridge is an ideal choice for small apartments, dorm rooms, or offices where space is a premium. Its retro styling adds a unique touch while providing essential refrigeration and freezing capabilities.
7. Frigidaire Retro 9.2 Cubic Foot Fridge with Bottom Mount Freezer,
Best for: Large capacity fridge, bottom freezer access.
This Frigidaire refrigerator features a unique bottom-mount freezer design with a total capacity of 9.2 cu. ft., offering comfortable access to both fresh and frozen foods. Its sleek build fits minimal space, making it adaptable for dorm rooms, kitchens, or offices.
The upright unit utilizes glass shelves for easy cleaning and organization, supported by five door shelves for additional storage. It operates on 110 Volts with a no-inverter compressor cooling method and manual defrost system, providing three shelves within the refrigerator compartment.
Pros
- 9.2 cu. ft. large capacity
- Bottom-mount freezer for easier access
- Sleek and compact build
- Five door shelves
Cons
- No adjustable temperature control for the refrigerator section.
For those who prefer easier access to the freezer, this Frigidaire with its bottom-mount design is a great option, delivering ample storage in an adaptable size. Its dual-tone color scheme adds a unique visual element.
8. Frigidaire Professional 36 in. 22.3 cu. ft. Counter Depth Side-by-Side
Best for: Counter-depth, high-capacity side-by-side.
This Frigidaire Professional 36-inch counter-depth side-by-side refrigerator offers a 22.3 cu. ft. capacity, providing 14.3 cu. ft. of fresh food storage and 8 cu. ft. for frozen goods without protruding into your kitchen space. It is ENERGY STAR Certified and ADA Compliant for efficient operation and accessibility.
Featuring an external ice and water dispenser for chilled filtered water and cube/crushed ice, this model uses an automatic defrost system and operates on 115 Volts. The EvenTemp Cooling System maintains consistent temperatures across both compartments, supported by three refrigerator shelves and six racks in total.
Pros
- 22.3 cu. ft. counter-depth capacity
- External ice and water dispenser
- ENERGY STAR Certified
- EvenTemp Cooling System
Cons
- No adjustable temperature control for the main compartments.
This professional Frigidaire side-by-side is designed for busy households valuing both capacity and convenience, with features like an external dispenser and space-saving counter-depth design. Its accessibility compliance makes it suitable for diverse users.
9. Frigidaire Platinum Fridge Freezer Combo, 7.5 cu. ft. Capacity Apartment
Best for: Apartment-sized with organized storage.
This Frigidaire Platinum fridge freezer combo offers a 7.5 cu. ft. capacity, featuring a separate, dedicated freezer compartment for your frozen goods. Its design is optimized for apartment use, ensuring ample space for all your essentials and easy access to everything.
The unit includes two full-width interior glass shelves, a transparent crisper, and two full-width door shelves for versatile bottle storage. It operates on 120 Volts with a compressor cooling method and manual defrost, featuring adjustable leveling legs for easy positioning and a flat-back design to conserve space.
Pros
- 7.5 cu. ft. total capacity
- Separate freezer compartment
- Spill-proof glass shelves
- Full-width door shelves
Cons
- Manual defrost system requires periodic manual thawing for the freezer.
Ideal for apartments or smaller kitchens, this Frigidaire Platinum model maximizes storage with its organized interior and dedicated freezer. The spill-proof shelves and accessible door bins make daily use convenient.
10. Frigidaire, 2 Door Apartment Size Refrigerator with Freezer, 7.5 cu
Best for: Compact, versatile fridge freezer.
With a generous 7.5 cu. ft. capacity, this Frigidaire apartment size refrigerator is designed to hold all your essentials, keeping them easily within reach. It features a dedicated freezer compartment for your frozen items, alongside organized storage solutions.
This model includes three slide-out glass shelves, a transparent crisper for produce, and four door shelves for additional bottle and item storage. It operates on 120 Volts with a compressor cooling method and manual defrost system, offering reversible door orientation for flexible placement.
Pros
- 7.5 cu. ft. total capacity
- Slide-out glass shelves
- Transparent crisper
- Four door shelves
Cons
- Manual defrost system requires periodic manual thawing for the freezer.
This Frigidaire apartment-sized refrigerator is a practical choice for small living spaces, offering a good balance of fresh and frozen storage. The reversible doors add installation flexibility.
Capacity’s True Cost, Not Cu. Ft.
For a best fridge freezer side by side combo, the defining factor isn’t raw cubic footage, but how that volume is allocated and what it enables for daily use, steering clear of overwhelming capacity figures that often mask practical limitations.
The Frigidaire Professional 36 in. 22.3 cu. ft.
Counter Depth Side-by-Side, with its 14.3 cu ft fresh food and 8 cu ft freezer split, exemplifies intelligent design. This isn’t just about having more space; it’s about accessible, organized storage that prevents items in the larger, less-used back areas from becoming forgotten casualties.
Contrast this with smaller units like the Frigidaire Retro Compact Fridge Freezer Combo, 3.1 cu. ft. Capacity, where the limited overall volume inherently forces a compromise: either valuable refrigerator real estate is sacrificed for frozen goods, or vice versa, making it a choice for minimalists with very specific, compact needs.
The real differentiator lies in the configuration of that space. The PROFESSIONAL Stainless Steel Refrigerator Freezer Combo & Trim FPRU19F8WF FPFU19F8WF showcases separate columns, offering a dedicated 18.6 Cu. Ft.
for refrigeration and an equivalent for freezing. This modular approach targets households that require substantial, independent storage for both fresh and frozen items without the typical deep-set stacking issues of a traditional combined unit.
While impressive, this also implies a significant footprint and a commitment to a designated kitchen zone, making it unsuitable for tighter quarters where models like the Frigidaire, 2 Door Apartment Size Refrigerator/Freezer Combo, 7.5 cu ft, or even the diminutive Midea WHD-113FSS1 Double Door Mini Fridge with Freezer for Bedroom, are the only viable options.
Buyers often fixate on the largest number, overlooking how that volume is partitioned. A 7.5 cu. ft.
Frigidaire model might advertise ample storage, but if the freezer portion is disproportionately small, it fails to serve households that actively utilize frozen goods for meal prep or bulk buying. The Frigidaire Retro 9.2 Cubic Foot Fridge with Bottom Mount Freezer presents a different internal logic, prioritizing easy access to fresh items, demonstrating that thoughtful internal layout can sometimes be more impactful than sheer dimension.
For those with consistently high frozen food needs, the Frigidaire Professional 36 in. 22.3 cu. ft.
Counter Depth Side-by-Side offers the most balanced and accessible configuration.
What to Look For in a Fridge Freezer Side by Side Combo
Capacity and configuration options
Evaluate your household size and typical grocery volume to select the right Total Cubic Feet. For couples or small families, 20-22 cu. ft.
is ample, while larger households benefit from 25 cu. ft.
or more. Prioritize a freezer-to-fridge ratio favoring your primary storage needs – most users require more refrigerator space, so look for models with roughly a 60/40 or 70/30 split. Adjustable shelving and strategically placed door bins offer maximum flexibility.
Opt for models with dedicated crisper drawers for fruits and vegetables and a full-width deli drawer for optimal organization. This ensures you always have sufficient, well-organized space.
Cooling technologies and efficiency
For consistent food preservation, prioritize dual evaporator systems that independently manage fridge and freezer temperatures, preventing odor transfer and maintaining ideal humidity. Look for models offering precise digital temperature controls, allowing you to fine-tune settings to specific food types. Frost-free operation is non-negotiable for convenience, eliminating manual defrosting.
Energy Star certification is a direct indicator of superior efficiency, leading to lower utility bills over the appliance’s lifespan. Choose models with these advanced cooling and efficiency features for dependable performance and long-term savings.
Unique features and convenience
Consider your daily habits when choosing convenience features. An external ice maker and water dispenser offers instant access, a must for busy households, while internal options are cleaner looking but less accessible. Smart home connectivity adds convenience for remote monitoring and diagnostics but is non-essential for basic functionality.
Door-in-door access provides quick retrieval of frequently used items without significant cold air loss, ideal for frequent snackers or beverage users. Finally, check decibel ratings to ensure quiet operation, especially for open-plan living spaces; aim for models below 40 dB.
Select features that directly enhance your kitchen workflow.
Which Should You Choose?
- If you have limited space and a small budget, consider a compact 3.1 cu. ft. or 5.4 cu. ft. model.
- If you need dedicated, spacious freezer and refrigerator sections, look for a 33-inch column combo with around 18.6 cu. ft. capacity per unit.
- If you have an average family and want a sleek, modern look that doesn’t stick out, opt for a 22.3 cu. ft. counter-depth side-by-side.
- If you’re a student or need a secondary fridge for a dorm or office, a 7.5 cu. ft. apartment-sized unit offers a good balance of space and footprint.
Quick Best Fridge Freezer Side By Side Combo Buying Checklist
- Measure Your Space: Ensure the dimensions of your chosen side-by-side match your kitchen alcove precisely.
- Consider Capacity Needs: Determine your typical grocery shopping habits and household size to select adequate storage.
- Evaluate Energy Efficiency: Look for Energy Star ratings to save on electricity bills over time.
- Check for Smart Features: Consider models with app control for temperature adjustments and diagnostics if desired.
- Review Door Clearance: Make sure the doors can open fully without obstruction in your kitchen layout.
- Inspect Interior Organization: Assess the flexibility of shelving and bins for your specific storage preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Ideal Capacity For A Best Fridge Freezer Side By Side Combo?
The ideal capacity for a best fridge freezer side by side combo ranges from 20 to 28 cubic feet, accommodating most household needs. Larger families might prefer models exceeding 25 cubic feet for ample storage of groceries and frozen goods.
How Important Is The Dual Evaporator System In A Side-By-Side Fridge?
Dual evaporator systems are crucial for maintaining optimal humidity levels in both the fridge and freezer compartments of a side-by-side combo. This technology prevents odor transfer and ensures food stays fresher for longer periods.
Are Internal Or External Water And Ice Dispensers More Reliable?
Internal dispensers offer a sleeker look and can be more protected, but external dispensers provide much greater convenience for quick access. Reliability can vary by brand and model, so checking reviews is advisable.
What Kind Of Noise Level Should I Expect From A Side-By-Side Refrigerator?
Most modern side-by-side refrigerators operate between 40-50 decibels, comparable to a quiet conversation. Quieter models may be below 40 decibels, ideal for open-plan living spaces where noise is a concern.
How Can Smart Features Enhance The Use Of A Fridge Freezer Side By Side Combo?
Smart features allow remote temperature monitoring and adjustments via smartphone apps, providing convenience and energy management. Some models even offer diagnostic alerts and inventory tracking, streamlining kitchen upkeep.
Final Words
Investing in the best fridge freezer side by side combo offers exceptional organization and dual-zone climate control for your kitchen. These appliances efficiently manage fresh and frozen goods, providing convenient access and preserving food quality. Upgrade your kitchen experience with a reliable and feature-rich refrigerator that meets your daily needs.