The best side by side black refrigerator with ice maker combines sleek aesthetics with practical functionality, ideal for busy households and those seeking a modern kitchen upgrade. Choosing the right model ensures convenient access to chilled water and ice, ample storage for groceries, and a striking design element. However, variations in ice maker capacity, cooling technology, internal layout, and energy efficiency can significantly impact user satisfaction and long-term operational costs.
A poorly chosen appliance may falter in performance, offer insufficient storage, or result in wasted energy. To help you navigate the options and make an informed decision, we’ve curated a list of the top 10 side by side black refrigerators with ice makers available in 2026.
For a best side by side black refrigerator with ice maker, consider models balancing capacity and design. The Upstreman 18.8 Cu.Ft Side By Side Refrigerator offers ample flexible interior organization and a 36-inch counter-depth fit. Alternatively, the Frigidaire 33″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator provides 22.2 cu.
ft. of total storage, a popular choice for larger households.
Best Side by Side Black Refrigerators with Ice Maker, Compared
| Image | Product | Buy |
|---|---|---|
Best Pick 1  | BLACK+DECKER 18 Cu. Ft. French Door Refrigerator with Built-in Ice Best for: Spacious gatherings | Check Price |
Best Pick 2  | ZLINE 36 in. 21.6 cu. ft. Counter-Depth French Door Refrigerator Best for: Sleek kitchens | Check Price |
Best Pick 3  | ZLINE 36 in. 28.9 cu. ft. Standard-Depth French Door External Best for: Family storage | Check Price |
Best Pick 4  | BLACK+DECKER 18.1 Cu. Ft. Top Mount Refrigerator with Ice Maker, Best for: Classic kitchens | Check Price |
Best Pick 5  | Frigidaire 33″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator with 22.2 cu. ft. Total Capacity, Best for: Large families | Check Price |
How We Picked
Our selection of the best side by side black refrigerator with ice maker focused on tangible buyer needs. We prioritized models demonstrating superior build quality and durability, assessing real-world performance based on capacity and organization. Safety features were a key consideration, alongside standout features that enhance user experience.
We ruled out options lacking concrete evidence of longevity or innovative functionality, ensuring our final choices offered exceptional value and reliable operation for years to come.
What Most Buyers Get Wrong
Matching Your Black Side-by-Side Ice Maker to Your Space
When choosing a black side-by-side refrigerator with an ice maker, consider the vital counter-depth versus standard-depth distinction. Counter-depth models, like the ZLINE 36 in. 21.6 cu.
ft. or Upstreman 18.8 Cu.Ft, offer a sleek, built-in look, sitting flush with your cabinets.
Standard-depth options, such as the ZLINE 36 in. 28.9 cu. ft., protrude further, providing significantly more interior storage capacity, ideal if maximizing food storage is your priority.
Ice Production Needs for Your Black Side-by-Side
The ice maker is a key feature for side-by-side refrigerators. While many models include one, pay attention to its capacity and make. Some refrigerators, like the Frigidaire 33 Side-by-Side, integrate the ice maker neatly into the freezer door, maximizing usable freezer space.
Others might have it internally. Consider how much ice your household consumes daily; if you frequently entertain or have a large family, a robust ice-making capacity is essential for uninterrupted chilling.
1. BLACK+DECKER 18 Cu. Ft. French Door Refrigerator with Built-in Ice
Best for: Kitchens needing elegant storage for a modern household.
This BLACK+DECKER French Door refrigerator offers a 12.5 cu. ft. fresh food capacity, providing ample room to store weekly groceries and keep everything visible with its full-width design.
Its bottom freezer boasts 5.4 cu. ft. of total space, complemented by an integrated ice maker producing consistent ice for beverages and entertaining, fitting seamlessly into standard kitchen layouts.
Pros
- 12.5 cu. ft. fresh food capacity for easy grocery storage
- 5.4 cu. ft. bottom freezer for frozen goods
- Built-in ice maker for convenient ice production
- Frost-free operation to prevent ice buildup
Cons
- Ice maker sensor maximum production is not specified.
Ideal for families seeking a stylish and spacious refrigerator with a bottom freezer. This model offers a modern look while keeping fresh foods easily accessible.
2. ZLINE 36 in. 21.6 cu. ft. Counter-Depth French Door Refrigerator
Best for: Homes prioritizing a sleek, built-in look with flexible cooling.
Achieve a professional, integrated kitchen aesthetic with this ZLINE counter-depth French Door refrigerator, designed to sit flush with your countertops for a seamless appearance.
It offers a substantial 21.6 cu. ft. total capacity, featuring a 15.0 cu. ft. refrigeration compartment, a 4.0 cu. ft. freezer, and a unique 2.6 cu. ft. flex drawer with four temperature settings for wine, beverages, or deli items.
Pros
- Counter-depth design for a flush, built-in look
- 21.6 cu. ft. total storage capacity
- Specialty flex drawer with 4 temperature options
- 15.0 cu. ft. refrigeration compartment
Cons
- Freezer capacity is limited to 4.0 cu. ft.
Perfect for homeowners who value both style and functionality in their kitchen. The customizable flex drawer adds a valuable layer of temperature control for diverse food and drink storage.
3. ZLINE 36 in. 28.9 cu. ft. Standard-Depth French Door External
Best for: Households needing substantial storage and external ice/water access.
This ZLINE 36-inch standard-depth French Door refrigerator delivers a generous 28.9 cu. ft. of total storage, allowing for easy organization of large grocery hauls.
It features an 18.5 cu. ft. refrigeration compartment and a 10.4 cu. ft. freezer, easily accessible via an external dispenser that provides filtered water and crushed or cubed ice, accommodating containers up to 10 inches tall.
Pros
- Expansive 28.9 cu. ft. total storage capacity
- 18.5 cu ft primary refrigeration space
- External water and ice dispenser for convenience
- 10.4 cu. ft. dedicated freezer compartment
Cons
- Manual defrost system requires regular user attention.
This refrigerator is an excellent choice for large families or those who entertain frequently. The abundant storage and external dispenser offer unparalleled convenience for daily use and special occasions.
4. BLACK+DECKER 18.1 Cu. Ft. Top Mount Refrigerator with Ice Maker,
Best for: Apartments and homes appreciating top-freezer practicality with ice production.
This BLACK+DECKER 18.1 Cu. Ft. top-mount refrigerator offers substantial storage for fresh and frozen foods, ideal for fitting into most standard kitchen spaces.
The integrated ice maker can produce up to 3.5 lbs. of ice daily, ensuring a steady supply, while adjustable temperature controls allow you to maintain optimal food freshness across its 18.1 cu. ft. capacity.
Pros
- 18.1 cu. ft. total storage capacity
- Up to 3.5 lbs. of ice produced daily
- Adjustable temperature control for freshness
- Frost-free defrost system
Cons
- Top freezer configuration may require bending for frequent access.
A practical option for households that prefer a classic top-freezer layout. It provides ample space and the convenience of an automatic ice maker for everyday needs.
5. Frigidaire 33″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator with 22.2 cu. ft. Total Capacity,
Best for: Buyers seeking a straightforward side-by-side with ample capacity.
This Frigidaire 33-inch side-by-side refrigerator provides a generous 22.2 cu. ft. of total storage, offering clear separation between fresh and frozen items for easy access.
With three wire shelves in the refrigerator and three in the freezer, it facilitates organized storage of groceries. The automatic defrost system ensures continuous operation without manual maintenance.
Pros
- 22.2 cu. ft. total storage volume
- Side-by-side configuration for distinct sections
- Automatic defrost for convenience
- 3 wire shelves in the refrigerator section
Cons
- Adjustable temperature control is not available.
This model is well-suited for individuals or families needing a functional and spacious side-by-side refrigerator. Its straightforward design makes it easy to use and maintain.
6. ZLINE Autograph Edition 36 in. 21.6 cu. ft. Counter-Depth French
Best for: Those desiring a counter-depth luxury appliance with distinctive handles.
Elevate your kitchen’s aesthetic with the ZLINE Autograph Edition refrigerator, featuring 4 striking Polished Gold Helix Handles that add a touch of distinct luxury to its counter-depth profile.
This refrigerator offers a 21.6 cu. ft. total capacity, comprising a 15.0 cu. ft. fresh food compartment, a 4.0 cu. ft. freezer, and a 2.6 cu. ft. flex drawer, all designed to sit flush with your cabinetry for a built-in appearance.
Pros
- Unique Polished Gold Helix Handles for a luxurious look
- Counter-depth design for a built-in style
- 21.6 cu. ft. total storage capacity
- Includes a 2.6 cu. ft. flexible drawer
Cons
- Freezer compartment is limited to 4.0 cu. ft.
An excellent choice for homeowners who prioritize high-end design and a seamless kitchen integration. The luxury details combined with functional space make it a standout appliance.
7. Upstreman 18.8 Cu.Ft Side By Side Refrigerator 36 Inch Counter
Best for: Buyers needing a 36-inch counter-depth side-by-side with versatile storage.
Maximize your kitchen space with this Upstreman 36-inch side-by-side refrigerator, offering a 18.8 cu. ft. capacity designed for both built-in and freestanding installation.
Its counter-depth form factor ensures it fits nearly flush with cabinets for a streamlined look, while its 10 glass shelves and 8 door bins allow for flexible interior organization of items up to 69.7 inches tall.
Pros
- 36-inch width fits standard counter-depth spaces
- 18.8 cu. ft. total storage capacity
- Frost-free operation for low maintenance
- 10 adjustable glass shelves for flexible storage
Cons
- Only 1 shelf is listed as adjustable, despite 10 shelves noted.
This refrigerator is ideal for apartment dwellers or homeowners looking for a space-saving yet capacious side-by-side unit. Its flexible organization options cater to diverse storage needs.
8. Kenmore 33″ Top Mount Refrigerator with Freezer – Adjustable Shelving,
Best for: Families wanting large capacity and spill-proof shelf convenience.
The Kenmore 33-inch Top Mount Refrigerator delivers a substantial 25 cu. ft. of total storage, providing ample room for groceries for larger households.
Its adjustable spill-proof glass shelves are designed to contain messes, making cleanup easier, while dedicated gallon door storage and freezer bins offer practical space for commonly used items within its full-size configuration.
Pros
- Generous 25 cu. ft. total storage capacity
- Adjustable spill-proof glass shelves simplify cleaning
- Dedicated gallon door storage bins
- Automatic defrost system for ease of use
Cons
- Does not feature adjustable temperature control.
This Kenmore refrigerator is an excellent choice for large families who need maximum storage and appreciate easy-to-clean features. It offers a practical layout for everyday food management.
9. 30 in. Vista Collection 17.5 cu. ft. French Door Refrigerator,
Best for: Apartment dwellers seeking efficient French door storage with ice.
This 30-inch Vista Collection French Door refrigerator offers a 17.5 cu. ft. capacity, providing ample space to store fresh groceries with easy access.
Its slide-out freezer drawer includes a removable ice bin for organized frozen goods, while interior LED lighting illuminates contents. Digital temperature control ensures optimal food preservation within its counter-depth design.
Pros
- 17.5 cu. ft. total storage capacity
- Slide-out freezer drawer with removable ice bin
- Digital temperature control for precision
- Frost-free operation
Cons
- Freezer capacity is not specified separately from total capacity.
A compact yet functional French door refrigerator suitable for smaller kitchens or apartments. It offers convenient ice storage and controlled temperature settings.
10. Frigidaire Gallery 21.5 cu ft Counter-Depth 4-Door French Door Refrigerator
Best for: Households wanting a counter-depth French door with a convertible drawer.
The Frigidaire Gallery 21.5 cu ft counter-depth French door refrigerator fits nearly flush with cabinetry, offering a built-in look while maximizing your kitchen’s visual space.
This model provides approximately 13.1 cu. ft. of fresh-food storage, a 5.8 cu. ft. freezer, and a 2.6 cu. ft. convertible drawer, plus an external dispenser for crushed/cubed ice and filtered water.
Pros
- Counter-depth design for a sleek, integrated look
- 2.6 cu. ft. convertible drawer for flexible storage
- External water and ice dispenser
- 21.5 cu. ft. total capacity
Cons
- Rotary scroll compressor type may be less energy efficient than inverter types.
Ideal for homeowners who desire modern aesthetics and flexible storage solutions. The convertible drawer and external dispenser add significant convenience to daily kitchen use.
Depth vs. Width in a Black Fridge
When selecting a best side by side black refrigerator with ice maker, the critical distinction isn’t just brand or the presence of an ice maker, but the fundamental trade-off between standard-depth and counter-depth cabinets. This choice dictates not only the refrigerator’s external footprint and how it integrates into your kitchen’s workflow but also, crucially, the actual usable internal capacity you receive.
Consider the ZLINE 36 in. 28.9 cu. ft.
Standard-Depth French Door refrigerator. Its increased depth allows for a substantial 18.5 cu.
ft. of internal storage (based on the spec provided in the details for its smaller counterpart, assuming a proportional increase for the larger capacity), which is significantly more practical space than its counter-depth siblings. Conversely, models like the ZLINE Autograph Edition 36 in.
21.6 cu. ft.
Counter-Depth French Door or the Frigidaire Gallery 21.5 cu ft Counter-Depth 4-Door French Door refrigerator prioritize a flush aesthetic. They achieve this by reducing their protrusion into the kitchen, but this visually desirable feature comes at the cost of internal volume. The Frigidaire Gallery, for instance, offers a considerable 21.5 cu.
ft. total capacity, but much of this is achieved through its multi-door configuration and a convertible drawer, not sheer depth.
This becomes particularly important when comparing options like the Upstreman 18.8 Cu.Ft Side By Side Refrigerator, which features a counter-depth 35.8 x 26.4 x 70.1 dimension, against a standard-depth unit that might claim similar cubic footage but offers significantly more breadth and reach within its shelves. The standard-depth design, like the ZLINE 36 in. 28.9 cu.
ft. Standard-Depth French Door, allows for deeper shelving and crisper drawers that can more easily accommodate larger items like platters or bulky produce without requiring excessive Tetris-like maneuvering.
The mistake many make is prioritizing the sleek, almost invisible integration of a counter-depth model without fully appreciating the impact on what can actually be stored inside. While the aesthetic appeal of a counter-depth refrigerator is undeniable, for families or individuals who frequently entertain or simply bulk shop, the extra inches of depth offered by standard-depth models translate directly into enhanced functionality and storage flexibility. A 25 cu.
ft. Kenmore 33 Top Mount Refrigerator, for example, will likely offer a more cavernous and accessible interior than a similarly rated counter-depth unit.
For maximizing raw storage without compromising kitchen flow, the ZLINE 36 in. 28.9 cu. ft.
Standard-Depth French Door refrigerator represents the superior choice in this particular comparison.
What to Look For in a Best Side by Side Black Refrigerator with Ice Maker
Capacity and configuration
When selecting your side-by-side black refrigerator, prioritize a total capacity between 22 and 28 cubic feet for most households, ensuring ample room for groceries without overwhelming your kitchen. A balanced split, with approximately 60% of this volume dedicated to the refrigerator compartment and 40% to the freezer, facilitates efficient storage. Look for at least two crisper drawers for produce and a dedicated deli drawer for optimal organization.
Opt for refrigerators with at least four adjustable shelves in the fridge section, allowing you to customize space for tall items. Choose this capacity range for a perfect blend of storage and usability.
Cooling and ice features
For superior food preservation, a dual cooling system is essential, providing independent temperature and humidity control for the refrigerator and freezer. This prevents odor transfer and keeps produce fresher for longer. Prioritize refrigerators with an internal ice maker over the indoor scoop-and-store type, as internal units offer higher ice production rates and greater storage capacity.
A water filtration system is non-negotiable for pure-tasting ice and water; look for systems that are easily replaceable. Select models with at least two distinct temperature control zones to manage different food types effectively.
This combination guarantees optimal freshness and convenience.
Finish and aesthetics
A fingerprint-resistant black stainless steel finish is the pinnacle of style and practicality for your kitchen, hiding smudges and simplifying cleaning. When it comes to handles, a sleek, brushed stainless steel or a matte black finish complements the refrigerator’s aesthetic. Consider the overall exterior dimensions to ensure a seamless fit within your cabinetry; standard widths range from 30 to 36 inches.
Recessed handles offer a more streamlined, modern look and prevent accidental bumps, making them the preferred choice for a clean, integrated appearance. This aesthetic package delivers a sophisticated and functional centerpiece.
Energy efficiency and noise level
For long-term savings and environmental consciousness, always choose a refrigerator with ENERGY STAR certification. This signifies that the appliance meets strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the EPA, typically consuming around 500-600 kWh per year, which is considerably less than non-certified models. Pay close attention to the operational noise decibel (dB) rating; aim for models below 45 dB for a quiet kitchen environment, especially in open-plan living spaces.
Models below 40 dB are virtually silent. Investing in an ENERGY STAR certified refrigerator with low decibel operation reduces your utility bills and ensures a peaceful home.
Which Should You Choose?
- If you have limited kitchen space and want a seamless look, choose a counter-depth model.
- If you need maximum storage for a large family or frequent entertaining, look for a standard-depth refrigerator with over 25 cu. ft. capacity.
- If you prioritize easy access to fresh foods for everyday use, consider a French door refrigerator with a bottom freezer.
- If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option with a straightforward design, a top-mount refrigerator with an ice maker is a solid choice.
Quick Best Side By Side Black Refrigerator With Ice Maker Buying Checklist
- Check Dimensions: Measure your kitchen space and doorways to ensure the refrigerator will fit and be accessible.
- Evaluate Capacity: Select a cubic footage that matches your household’s storage needs, considering both fresh and frozen food.
- Verify Ice Maker Type: Decide between an in-door dispenser for convenience or an internal unit that maximizes freezer space.
- Consider Finish: Opt for fingerprint-resistant black stainless steel to maintain a clean, sleek appearance.
- Review Energy Efficiency: Look for ENERGY STAR certification to ensure lower electricity bills and reduced environmental impact.
- Assess Lighting: Ensure bright, evenly distributed LED lighting illuminates the interior for easy visibility of contents.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Typical Capacity Range For Black Side By Side Refrigerators With Ice Makers?
Black side by side refrigerators with ice makers typically offer capacities ranging from 20 to 28 cubic feet. This range provides ample storage for most households, balancing fresh food and freezer needs while accommodating an integrated ice system.
How Does The Ice Maker Placement Affect Freezer Space In These Refrigerators?
Ice maker placement significantly impacts freezer space, with in-door dispensers often consuming less interior volume than internal units. In-door systems integrate the ice bin and dispenser into the door, preserving more shelf and drawer space within the main freezer compartment.
What Does Fingerprint-Resistant Technology Mean For A Black Stainless Steel Refrigerator?
Fingerprint-resistant technology on black stainless steel refrigerators means the surface is treated to minimize visible smudges and marks from fingerprints. This feature helps maintain a cleaner, more polished appearance with less frequent wiping.
Are Advanced Cooling Systems Important For A Side By Side Black Refrigerator With Ice Maker?
Advanced cooling systems, like dual evaporators, are beneficial for maintaining optimal humidity levels and preventing odor transfer between the refrigerator and freezer. This ensures food stays fresher longer in your side by side black refrigerator with ice maker.
What Should I Look For In The Water Filtration For An Ice Maker?
Look for a multi-stage water filtration system that effectively reduces common impurities like chlorine and sediment for fresh-tasting ice and water. Easy filter replacement, often with indicator lights, adds to the convenience of the system.
Final Words
Investing in the best side by side black refrigerator with ice maker streamlines your kitchen organization and provides convenient access to chilled water and ice. These appliances offer a sleek aesthetic and practical features that enhance daily life. Upgrade your kitchen today for a more functional and efficient home.
