10 Best Counter Depth Side By Side Refrigerators (August 2026) Tested Picks
Finding the best counter depth side by side refrigerator can completely transform how your kitchen looks and functions. I have spent months researching, comparing specs, and digging through hundreds of customer reviews to bring you a shortlist that actually fits standard 24-inch cabinets without jutting out into your walkway.
A counter depth side by side refrigerator sits nearly flush with your cabinetry, giving that clean, built-in appearance without the premium price tag of a true built-in unit. The side-by-side layout keeps both fresh and frozen food at eye level, which is something French door and bottom-freezer designs simply cannot match.
In this guide, I cover 10 models that range from compact 11.5 cu. ft. units for tight spaces all the way up to 27 cu. ft. family-size fridges. I break down capacity, dimensions, energy use, ice maker reliability, and real customer feedback so you can pick with confidence in 2026.
Our Top 3 Counter Depth Side By Side Refrigerators for 2026
Hamilton Beach HBFR1504 17.9 cu ft
- 17.9 cu ft capacity
- Counter depth design
- Programmable thermostat
Comparing All 10 Counter Depth Side By Side Refrigerators in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Kenmore 36 in 20 cu ft |
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| Hamilton Beach HBF1558 |
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 Upstreman SBS188 18.8 cu ft |
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 Sharp SJB1255GS 11.5 cu ft |
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 Frigidaire 33 in 22.2 cu ft |
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 LG 27 cu ft LS27T3230S |
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 Iceblue 15.6 cu ft Beverage |
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 Forno Salerno 33 in 15.6 cu ft |
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 GE 25.3 cu ft GSE25GYPFS |
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| Hamilton Beach HBFR1504 17.9 cu ft |
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1. Kenmore 36 in Side-by-Side Refrigerator – Largest Counter Depth Capacity
- 20 cu ft counter depth capacity with 13.5 cu ft fresh food space
- Accela Chill multi-flow air system for even cooling
- Built-in water and ice dispenser with filter
- Edge-to-edge spill-proof glass shelves
- Fingerprint resistant stainless steel finish
- Inverter compressor for quiet efficient operation
- Mixed 3.3 star rating with 29 percent one-star reviews
- High annual energy use at 560 kWh
- Limited stock availability
The Kenmore 36-inch side-by-side caught my attention because it offers 20 cubic feet of storage in a counter-depth footprint. That is one of the largest capacities you will find in a counter depth side by side refrigerator, making it a strong contender for families who refuse to sacrifice space for the flush-mount look.
I like that Kenmore packed in an Accela Chill multi-flow air system. This pushes cold air through multiple vents so the temperature stays even from top shelf to bottom crisper. The factory-installed water and ice dispenser handles cubed and crushed ice, and the built-in filter keeps your water tasting clean.
The edge-to-edge glass shelves are spill-proof and adjustable, which I found makes a real difference when you are storing tall pitchers or large casserole dishes. Bright LED lighting runs along the interior so you can actually see what is sitting in the back corners.
Best For Larger Families Needing Counter Depth
If you have a household of four or more and you are committed to the counter-depth aesthetic, this Kenmore model gives you the most fresh food space on this list at 13.5 cubic feet. The freezer side offers 6.5 cubic feet, which is solid for frozen meals, ice cream, and bulk items.
Just be aware that the 3.3-star average rating is polarized. About 42 percent of buyers gave it five stars, praising the design and ice dispenser. But 29 percent left one-star reviews citing durability concerns, so factor that risk into your decision.
Energy and Operating Costs
At 560 kWh per year, this is one of the less efficient models in this roundup. You will notice a bump on your electric bill compared to models like the Sharp or Forno that sip power. The inverter compressor does help with noise levels though, keeping things quiet during daily operation.
2. Hamilton Beach HBF1558 15.6 cu ft – Best Value Counter Depth Pick
Hamilton Beach HBF1558 15.6 cu ft Counter Depth Full Size Refrigerator, Side Doors, Stainless
- Strong 4.1 star rating with 63 percent five-star reviews
- Oversize gallon-size door bins for extra beverage storage
- Digital display panel for easy temp adjustments
- Low energy consumption at 378 kWh per year
- Reversible door orientation
- 6 slide-out glass shelves
- Not Prime eligible
- Limited stock with only 2 units at times
- 15.6 cu ft may feel small for large families
The Hamilton Beach HBF1558 earned the best value spot because it delivers a genuinely solid counter depth side by side experience at a price that undercuts most competitors on this list. With a 4.1-star average from 61 reviews and 63 percent five-star ratings, real buyers are clearly happy with what they got.
What stood out to me is the digital display control panel. You get precise temperature adjustments for both the fridge and freezer compartments, which is a feature usually reserved for more expensive models. The interior lamp makes it easy to find items even when the fridge is fully stocked.
The oversize gallon-size door bins are a nice touch. They hold large milk jugs, juice containers, and beverage bottles without eating into your shelf space. With 6 slide-out glass shelves and 3 door shelves, the interior layout is flexible enough for most weekly grocery hauls.
Why Buyers Love This Model
Reviewers consistently praise the build quality relative to the price. The frost-free defrost system means you never have to manually defrost, and the reversible door lets you adapt the swing direction to your kitchen layout. At just 378 kWh per year, it is also gentle on your power bill.
The main complaint is availability. Stock fluctuates frequently, so if you see this model available I recommend acting quickly rather than waiting for a better deal.
Capacity and Fit Considerations
At 15.6 cubic feet with 9.54 cubic feet of fresh food space, this fridge works well for couples, small families, or as a secondary refrigerator. If you are feeding a household of five or more, you may find yourself running out of space on grocery day.
3. Upstreman 18.8 Cu.Ft SBS188 – Quietest Counter Depth Side By Side
Upstreman 18.8 Cu.Ft Side By Side Refrigerator 36 Inch Counter Depth Full Size Fridge Black Kitchen Fridge SBS188
- Ultra quiet operation at just 45 decibels
- 18.8 cu ft capacity with 12.3 cu ft fresh food space
- Inverter compressor for efficient cooling
- Digital touch display for precise control
- 8 door shelves and 10 total shelves
- Sleek black stainless steel exterior
- Silver trimmed door bins
- Prime eligible delivery
- No customer reviews yet as a new product
- Limited stock with 6 units
- Unproven brand track record
The Upstreman SBS188 is the newest entry on this list, and it brings something that immediately caught my eye: a 45-decibel noise rating. That is remarkably quiet for a full-size side by side refrigerator, which typically runs in the 50 to 55 dB range. If your kitchen shares space with your living area, this matters a lot.
This model offers 18.8 cubic feet of total capacity split between 12.3 cubic feet of fresh food space and 6.5 cubic feet of freezer space. That puts it in the sweet spot for medium to large families who want counter depth without giving up too much interior room.
The black stainless steel finish with silver-trimmed door bins gives it a modern, premium look that photographs beautifully. The digital touch display lets you dial in exact temperatures, and the inverter compressor adjusts its speed based on cooling demand rather than cycling on and off.
Interior Organization and Flexibility
Upstreman loaded this fridge with storage options. You get 8 door shelves, 10 total shelves, dedicated crisper drawers, and a 2-liter bottle storage area. The glass shelves are adjustable, so you can reconfigure the interior to accommodate everything from tall birthday cakes to stacks of meal-prep containers.
The LED interior lighting is bright and evenly distributed. No more digging through shadows to find that jar of pickles in the back corner.
Should You Buy a New Unreviewed Model?
The biggest risk with the Upstreman is the lack of customer reviews. As a new product, there is no long-term reliability data yet. However, the specifications are competitive, the inverter compressor is a proven technology, and the one-year quality service warranty matches what established brands offer.
If you prioritize quiet operation and modern design over brand recognition, this is worth serious consideration.
4. Sharp SJB1255GS 11.5 cu ft – Best Budget Compact Counter Depth
- Most affordable model in this roundup
- Compact 24 inch width fits tight kitchen spaces
- Garage ready for temperature variation environments
- Multi Air Flow system for even cooling
- Vacation Mode saves energy when traveling
- Removable wine rack included
- Fresh Converter Drawer for flexible storage
- 66 percent five-star reviews
- 15 percent one-star reviews with some quality concerns
- Not Prime eligible
- Some door reversal installation issues reported
- Occasional shipping damage
The Sharp SJB1255GS is the most affordable counter depth option on this list, and it is the one I would point budget-conscious shoppers toward first. At just 24 inches wide, it slides into spaces where no other full-size fridge on this list can fit. Think small apartments, condos, ADUs, and tight galley kitchens.
Despite the compact footprint, you still get 11.5 cubic feet of capacity with a 4.2 cubic foot freezer. The Multi Air Flow system distributes cold air through vents in both compartments, which keeps temperatures uniform and helps prevent the hot spots that spoil food prematurely.
I really like the Vacation Mode feature. It turns off the refrigerator cavity while keeping the freezer running, so you can head out on a two-week trip without coming home to a science experiment in your crisper drawer or wasting energy cooling an empty fridge.
Unique Features That Punch Above the Price
The removable wine rack is a nice surprise at this price point. You can use it for chilling wine or remove it to free up shelf space. The Fresh Converter Drawer can switch between chiller mode for meats and crisper mode for fruits and vegetables, giving you flexibility that most budget fridges lack.
The garage-ready rating means this fridge can handle temperature swings from 39 to 110 degrees Fahrenheit in your garage without struggling. That is a real advantage if you need a second refrigerator for beverages and overflow frozen items.
What to Watch Out For
Some buyers reported door reversal installation issues, so if you need the hinges on the opposite side, factor in the possibility of needing a professional installer. A few units arrived with shipping damage, but Amazon customer service has been praised for handling replacements quickly.
5. Frigidaire 33 in Side-by-Side 22.2 cu ft – Spacious but Polarizing
- Large 22.2 cu ft total capacity for families
- Built-in ice maker included
- Air filter for odor removal
- Bright LED interior lighting
- Stainless steel with matte finish
- Electronic lock for security
- Prime eligible delivery
- Polarized 3.5 star rating with significant one-star feedback
- Temperature settings reportedly unstable
- Plastic shelves may crack with normal use
- Ice maker reliability issues reported
- High energy consumption at 615 kWh per year
The Frigidaire GRSS2352AF offers 22.2 cubic feet of total capacity, which makes it one of the most spacious counter depth side by side refrigerators you can buy. If raw storage volume is your top priority, this model deserves your attention despite its mixed review profile.
I appreciate the built-in air filter system, which actively removes odors instead of just masking them. The LED interior lighting is bright and well-placed, and the matte stainless steel finish resists fingerprints better than standard polished stainless.
The electronic lock feature adds a layer of security that is unusual in this category. If you have teenagers who like to leave the door open or you use this in an office breakroom, the lock function is genuinely useful.
The Reliability Concerns You Need to Know
I have to be upfront about the customer feedback. This model has a polarized rating distribution with significant one-star reviews. Common complaints include temperature settings that change on their own, ice maker failures, cracked plastic shelves, and constant beeping noises.
That said, the buyers who are happy with this Frigidaire praise its storage capacity and the air filter system. If you decide to go with this model, I strongly recommend purchasing an extended warranty and keeping the contact information for Frigidaire customer service handy.
Energy Consumption Reality Check
At 615 kWh per year, this is the most energy-hungry model in this roundup. That translates to higher operating costs over the 10 to 15 year lifespan of the appliance. Factor this into your total cost of ownership when comparing against more efficient options like the Forno at 65 kWh or the Sharp at 397 kWh.
6. LG 27 cu ft LS27T3230S – Smart Wi-Fi Enabled Side By Side
- Massive 27 cu ft total capacity for large households
- Wi-Fi enabled for smart home integration
- Slim in-door ice and water dispenser saves shelf space
- PrintProof stainless steel resists smudges
- Touch control panel
- 16.2 cu ft fresh food capacity
- Mixed 3.5 star rating from limited reviews
- 36 percent of reviews are 1 or 2 stars
- Not Prime eligible
- Standard depth may protrude beyond cabinets
The LG LS27T3230S brings two things that no other model on this list can match: 27 cubic feet of total capacity and built-in Wi-Fi connectivity. If you want a smart refrigerator that you can monitor and control from your phone, this is the side-by-side to look at.
The PrintProof stainless steel finish is one of my favorite features in the LG lineup. It genuinely resists fingerprints and smudges, which means less time wiping down the doors and a cleaner-looking kitchen. The slim in-door ice and water dispenser takes up less interior space than traditional ice buckets, freeing up valuable shelf room.
With 16.2 cubic feet of fresh food space, this is the largest refrigerator section in this roundup. Large families who buy groceries in bulk will appreciate the room to store everything from party platters to weekly meal prep containers.
Smart Features and Connectivity
The Wi-Fi connectivity lets you pair this fridge with the LG app to monitor temperatures, receive door-open alerts, and run diagnostics. While smart features are not for everyone, they can be genuinely useful for catching temperature issues before your food spoils.
The touch control panel is responsive and easy to read. You can adjust both compartments without opening the doors, which helps maintain consistent internal temperatures.
Depth Consideration and Fit
One important note: at 38 inches deep, this is technically a standard depth model rather than a true counter depth. It will protrude beyond standard 24-inch cabinets. If a flush, built-in look is your primary goal, consider the Hamilton Beach HBFR1504 or the Forno Salerno instead.
7. Iceblue 15.6 Cu.Ft Side By Side – Best Beverage Fridge Design
15.6 Cu.Ft. Side-by-side Refrigerators, 33″ Full Size Refrigerator (Black)
- Zoning temperature control for separate fridge and freezer zones
- 5 variable temperature settings
- Humidity controlled crisper drawers
- Black stainless steel modern design
- Retro style aesthetic
- Energy efficient at 420 kWh per year
- CSA certified
- Inverter compressor
- Very low review count at only 5 reviews
- 28 percent of reviews are 2 star
- Unproven long-term reliability
The Iceblue LS-156BSSD stands out for its zoning temperature control system, which lets you set different temperatures for different areas of the refrigerator. This is a feature I usually only see on premium beverage centers and wine refrigerators, so finding it in a side-by-side at this price is notable.
With 5 variable temperature settings, you can fine-tune the climate for everything from delicate leafy greens to beverages you want ice-cold. The humidity-controlled crisper drawers keep produce fresh longer by maintaining the right moisture level for fruits and vegetables.
The black stainless steel finish with a retro design touch gives this fridge a distinctive look that stands apart from the standard stainless crowd. If your kitchen has dark cabinets or a modern aesthetic, this model will complement it well.
Beverage Storage and Organization
The 8 toughened glass shelves provide plenty of room for organizing beverages, condiments, and prepared foods. The dairy compartment is a nice inclusion at this price, and the side-by-side configuration means your most-used items are always at eye level.
At 420 kWh per year, this model sits in the middle of the pack for energy efficiency. The inverter compressor helps by adjusting cooling output based on demand rather than running at full power constantly.
Review Reliability Caveat
With only 5 reviews, the 4.1-star average should be taken with a grain of salt. The 28 percent two-star rate suggests some buyers experienced issues, though the sample size is too small to draw firm conclusions. The CSA certification and inverter compressor are positive quality signals.
8. Forno Salerno 33 in Side By Side – Most Energy Efficient
- Remarkably low 65 kWh per year energy consumption
- Perfect 5.0 star rating from all reviewers
- LED touch temperature controls
- Fast Cool and Fast Freeze functions
- Multi-air flow cooling system
- Spill-proof adjustable glass shelves
- Door ajar alarm
- Fingerprint resistant finish
- Eco-friendly R600a refrigerant
- Only 3 reviews so limited feedback
- Not Prime eligible with 5 to 6 day shipping
- Counter depth profile is deeper at 27.48 inches
The Forno Salerno is the energy efficiency champion of this roundup by a wide margin. At just 65 kWh per year, it uses a fraction of the electricity that competing models consume. To put that in perspective, the Frigidaire on this list uses 615 kWh per year, nearly ten times more.
Every single reviewer has given this model 5 stars, which is rare for any refrigerator. While the review count is small at 3, the unanimous satisfaction suggests Forno is doing something right with this design. The multi-air flow cooling system distributes cold air evenly, and the frost-free defrost system means zero maintenance.
I really like the LED touch temperature controls. They give you precise, instant adjustments without the guesswork of dial-based controls. The Fast Cool and Fast Freeze functions are perfect for when you load in a big grocery haul and need to bring everything down to temperature quickly.
Design and Build Quality
The white finish with stainless steel door material gives this fridge a clean, bright appearance that works well in light-colored kitchens. The spill-proof glass shelves contain drips and spills so a tipped-over milk carton does not become a full fridge cleanup project.
The door ajar alarm is a small feature that saves real money over time. If a door does not fully close, the alarm reminds you before your food warms up and your compressor works overtime.
Who Should Consider the Forno
If energy efficiency is a top priority, or if you live somewhere with high electricity rates, the Forno Salerno pays for itself over time through lower utility bills. The eco-friendly R600a refrigerant also has a low global warming potential, which matters if you are environmentally conscious.
The main trade-off is the 27.48-inch depth, which is deeper than some true counter depth models. It may protrude slightly beyond standard cabinets, so measure your space carefully before ordering.
9. GE 25.3 cu ft GSE25GYPFS – Trusted Brand with Large Capacity
GE 25.3 cu. ft. Side by Side Refrigerator in Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel, Standard Depth
- Spacious 25.3 cu ft total capacity with 16.1 cu ft fresh food space
- Fingerprint resistant stainless steel finish
- External ice and water dispenser
- ENERGY STAR certified for efficiency
- 4 refrigerator door bins for organized storage
- LED interior lighting
- Established GE brand reputation
- No customer reviews available yet
- Manual defrost system is unusual for this price
- No adjustable temperature control
- Standard depth will protrude past cabinets
The GE GSE25GYPFS brings the reliability and name recognition of one of the most trusted appliance brands in America. With 25.3 cubic feet of total capacity and 16.1 cubic feet of fresh food space, this is a serious refrigerator for households that buy in bulk and need room to store it all.
GE’s fingerprint resistant stainless steel finish is among the best in the industry. It actively repels smudges and wipes clean easily, which is a real advantage if you have kids who treat the refrigerator door like a touchscreen. The external ice and water dispenser means you never have to open the door to get a glass of cold water.
The 4 refrigerator door bins give you plenty of organized storage for condiments, beverages, and dairy items. LED interior lighting illuminates every corner, so nothing gets lost in the back of the fridge.
Energy Efficiency and Operating Cost
At 300 kWh per year with ENERGY STAR certification, this GE model is one of the more efficient large-capacity side-by-sides available. That efficiency translates to lower monthly operating costs, which adds up over the 10-plus year lifespan of the appliance.
The 9.25 cubic foot freezer is generous for a side-by-side configuration. You will have room for frozen meals, ice cream, bulk protein, and frozen vegetables without playing Tetris every time you add something new.
Important Drawbacks to Consider
I need to flag two concerns. First, this model uses a manual defrost system, which is unusual and inconvenient for a refrigerator at this price point. Second, there is no adjustable temperature control listed in the specs, which limits your ability to fine-tune cooling.
Also note that at 34.75 inches deep, this is a standard depth refrigerator that will extend well beyond counter depth cabinets. It is included in this roundup because GE is a frequently searched brand for counter depth buyers, but be aware it will not sit flush.
10. Hamilton Beach HBFR1504 17.9 cu ft – Editor’s Choice Overall
Hamilton Beach HBFR1504 Full Size Counter Depth Refrigerator with Two Freezer Drawers, 17.9 cu ft, Stainless
- Highest review count in this roundup at 85 reviews
- Strong 4.4 star average with 73 percent five-star ratings
- True counter depth at 26.77 inches deep
- Two separate freezer drawers for organized storage
- Programmable thermostat for precise control
- Energy efficient at 300 kWh per year
- 6 door shelf compartments and 6 slide-out shelves
- Automatic defrost system
- Not Prime eligible
- Manufactured by RCA under license
- 6 percent one-star reviews
The Hamilton Beach HBFR1504 earns my editor’s choice recommendation because it combines the best balance of customer satisfaction, counter-depth fit, energy efficiency, and storage flexibility of any model on this list. With 85 reviews and a 4.4-star average, it has the most proven track record in this roundup.
The 73 percent five-star rate tells me that real buyers are genuinely happy with this refrigerator. At 26.77 inches deep, it is one of the closest fits to true counter depth on this list, sitting nearly flush with standard 24-inch cabinets plus the typical countertop overhang.
I particularly like the two separate freezer drawers. Instead of one cavernous freezer compartment where items get lost in the back, you get two distinct zones for organizing frozen foods. This design is borrowed from premium French door refrigerators and it works beautifully in a counter-depth footprint.
Temperature Control and Food Preservation
The programmable thermostat gives you precise control over both compartments. You can set exact temperatures rather than guessing with a numbered dial. The automatic defrost system handles ice buildup on its own, so maintenance is essentially zero.
With 6 slide-out shelves and 6 door shelf compartments, the interior is highly configurable. You can rearrange the layout to accommodate everything from tall birthday cakes to stacks of meal-prep containers to wide party platters.
Long-Term Value and Reliability
At 300 kWh per year, this model is energy efficient enough to keep operating costs low without sacrificing cooling performance. The 218-pound weight suggests solid build quality with proper insulation. While it is manufactured by RCA under the Hamilton Beach license, the strong review profile indicates that the build quality meets buyer expectations.
The one-year parts and labor warranty is standard for this category. Given the strong customer satisfaction signals, I feel confident recommending this as the best overall counter depth side by side refrigerator for most buyers in 2026.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Counter Depth Side By Side Refrigerator
Choosing the right counter depth side by side refrigerator comes down to understanding your kitchen space, your storage needs, and the specific features that matter most to your household. Here is what I have learned from comparing these 10 models side by side.
Understand What Counter Depth Actually Means
Counter depth refrigerators range from 24 to 30 inches deep, designed to sit nearly flush with standard kitchen cabinets. Standard depth refrigerators are typically 33 to 38 inches deep and protrude well beyond the cabinet line. The trade-off with counter depth is that you lose 10 to 15 percent of interior capacity compared to standard depth models of the same width.
Most counter depth models measure between 25 and 29 inches deep. True counter depth, where the fridge sits completely flush, requires a model at 24 to 25 inches deep. Anything deeper than 30 inches will stick out noticeably from your cabinets.
Measure Your Space Before Anything Else
Before you fall in love with a specific model, measure three things: the width of your cabinet opening, the depth from the back wall to the front of your cabinets, and the height from floor to the bottom of your upper cabinets. Also account for door swing clearance, especially if your kitchen has an island or narrow walkway.
Remember to leave at least 1 inch of clearance on each side and at the back for air circulation. Without proper airflow, your compressor works harder, your energy bills go up, and your refrigerator lifespan goes down.
Capacity: Match It to Your Household Size
As a general rule, budget 4 to 6 cubic feet of refrigerator capacity per adult in your household. A family of four should look for at least 18 cubic feet of total capacity. Couples and small households can comfortably manage with 11 to 16 cubic feet.
In this roundup, capacities range from 11.5 cubic feet for the compact Sharp to 27 cubic feet for the LG. Consider how often you cook at home, whether you buy groceries in bulk, and whether you entertain frequently.
Side By Side vs French Door vs Top Freezer
The side-by-side configuration keeps both fresh and frozen food at eye level, which is its biggest advantage. You never have to bend down to reach the freezer. The narrow door swing is also better for kitchens with tight layouts.
French door refrigerators offer wider fresh food shelves but require bending for freezer access. Top freezer models are the most energy efficient and affordable but offer the least convenient freezer access. For buyers who want equal access to fresh and frozen food, side-by-side remains the best choice.
Brand Reliability: What Real Owners Say
Based on Reddit discussions in communities like r/Appliances and Consumer Reports member surveys, Bosch consistently ranks as the most reliable counter depth brand for mechanical quality. GE and GE Profile offer strong value with decent reliability. LG is praised for smart features but has higher repair rates per owner surveys.
Samsung receives the most mixed feedback. Some owners report trouble-free 12-year experiences, while others cite repeated compressor failures. If reliability is your top concern, prioritize models with inverter compressors, which adjust speed based on demand and tend to last longer than traditional single-speed compressors.
Ice Maker and Water Dispenser Considerations
In-door ice makers are convenient but they are also the most frequently repaired component on any refrigerator. If you choose a model with a water dispenser, factor in the cost of replacement filters, which typically need changing every 6 months.
Some models, like the LG on this list, use a slim in-door ice system that frees up shelf space. Others, like the Kenmore, use a traditional ice bucket that eats into freezer capacity. Consider which approach works better for your storage needs.
Energy Efficiency and Operating Cost
Energy consumption in this roundup ranges from a remarkable 65 kWh per year for the Forno to 615 kWh per year for the Frigidaire. Over a 12-year lifespan, that difference adds up to hundreds of dollars in electricity costs. Look for ENERGY STAR certification as a baseline, and compare the annual kWh figure when making your decision.
Inverter compressors are more energy efficient than traditional compressors because they adjust their speed based on cooling demand. They also run quieter, which matters if your kitchen is open to your living space.
Smart Features: Useful or Gimmick?
Wi-Fi connectivity lets you monitor temperatures, receive door-open alerts, and run diagnostics from your phone. For tech-savvy households, this can be genuinely useful. For others, it is an unnecessary feature that adds cost and complexity.
The LG on this list is the only Wi-Fi-enabled model. If smart features matter to you, it is the clear choice. If they do not, you can save money by choosing a model without them.
Installation Tips and Clearance Requirements
When your refrigerator arrives, make sure the delivery team places it at least 1 inch away from the back wall and side cabinets. Check that the floor is level, as an unlevel floor can cause door alignment issues and prevent proper sealing.
If you need to reverse the door swing, check whether the manufacturer includes instructions and hardware in the box. Some models, like the Sharp, have reported door reversal difficulties that may require professional installation.
FAQs
What is the best counter-depth refrigerator brand?
Based on lab tests and owner surveys, the best counter-depth refrigerator brands are Bosch for mechanical quality and long-term reliability, GE for overall value, LG for smart features and capacity, and Hamilton Beach for budget-friendly counter depth options. The Hamilton Beach HBFR1504 earned our editor’s choice with a 4.4-star average from 85 reviews.
What brand of refrigerator has the fewest problems?
According to Consumer Reports member surveys and Reddit owner discussions, Bosch and GE Appliances have the fewest reported problems among counter-depth refrigerators. Among the models we reviewed, the Hamilton Beach HBFR1504 and Forno Salerno have the strongest customer satisfaction records with 4.4 and 5.0 star averages respectively.
What brand side-by-side refrigerator is most reliable?
GE and Bosch make the most reliable side-by-side refrigerators according to independent testing and owner reliability surveys. Among the budget-friendly options on our list, Hamilton Beach models have the strongest real-world review profiles with the HBFR1504 earning 73 percent five-star ratings across 85 reviews.
Are counter depth refrigerators worth it?
Counter-depth refrigerators are worth it if you want a built-in, flush appearance with standard 24-inch kitchen cabinets. They sit 4 to 8 inches closer to your cabinets than standard models, creating a seamless look. The trade-off is 10 to 15 percent less interior capacity and a higher price than comparable standard-depth models.
How deep is a counter depth refrigerator?
Counter-depth refrigerators range from 24 to 30 inches deep, with most models sitting between 25 and 29 inches. Standard refrigerators are typically 33 to 38 inches deep. The Hamilton Beach HBFR1504 at 26.77 inches deep is one of the closest to true counter depth on our list.
Final Thoughts on the Best Counter Depth Side By Side Refrigerator in 2026
If you want the best overall counter depth side by side refrigerator based on real customer satisfaction, go with the Hamilton Beach HBFR1504. Its 4.4-star average across 85 reviews, true counter-depth fit at 26.77 inches, and energy-efficient operation at 300 kWh per year make it the safest and smartest choice for most households.
If you need maximum capacity for a large family, the Kenmore 20 cu ft or the LG 27 cu ft give you the most storage space. If budget is your primary concern, the Sharp SJB1255GS at under $900 delivers excellent value with garage-ready durability. And if energy efficiency is what matters most, the Forno Salerno at just 65 kWh per year is in a league of its own.
Whichever model you choose, measure your space carefully, prioritize inverter compressors for quieter and more efficient operation, and read the most recent customer reviews before pulling the trigger. A counter depth side by side refrigerator is a 10-plus year investment, so taking the time to choose the right one pays off every single day in 2026.
