The best new side by side refrigerator offers unparalleled organization and accessibility for busy households, ensuring fresh groceries are always within reach. When selecting your ideal model, consider crucial differences in cooling technology, ice maker capacity, and smart features, as a misstep can lead to suboptimal food preservation and wasted energy. Energy efficiency ratings, decibel levels for quiet operation, and interior layout flexibility are also key differentiators among the top contenders.
Choosing the right refrigerator can elevate your kitchen’s functionality and your daily routine, but an ill-suited appliance can quickly become a source of frustration. Ahead, we explore ten of the most impressive new side by side refrigerators available in 2026, highlighting their unique strengths to help you make an informed decision.
When considering the best new side by side refrigerator, look for models offering ample capacity, such as the GE 25.3 cu. ft. Side by Side Refrigerator or the LG 27 cu.
ft. Side-by-Side Standard Depth Slim in Door.
Counter-depth options, like the Frigidaire Professional 36 in. 22.3 cu. ft.
Counter Depth Side-by-Side, provide a streamlined look without sacrificing significant fresh food or freezer space.
Best New Side by Side Refrigerators at a Glance
| Image | Product | Buy |
|---|---|---|
Best Pick 1  | Frigidaire 33″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator with 22.2 cu. ft. Total Capacity, Best for: Apartment dwellers | Check Price |
Best Pick 2  | Frigidaire Professional 36 in. 22.3 cu. ft. Counter Depth Side-by-Side Best for: Counter depth needs | Check Price |
Best Pick 3  | GE 25.3 cu. ft. Side by Side Refrigerator in Fingerprint Best for: Family capacity | Check Price |
Best Pick 4  | GE Profile 25.3 cu. ft. Side by Side Refrigerator in Best for: Premium family fridge | Check Price |
Best Pick 5  | Gallery 25.6 Cu. Ft. 36″ Standard Depth Side by Side Best for: Standard depth | Check Price |
How We Picked
To identify the best new side by side refrigerator, we rigorously evaluated models based on durability, real-world performance, build quality, safety, and standout features. We prioritized those offering substantial, well-organized storage, like the GE and GE Profile with their 25.3 cu. ft.
capacities. Counter-depth options, such as the Frigidaire Professional, were considered for their space-saving design.
Models lacking robust build quality or essential features like external ice/water dispensers were ruled out. We focused on units designed for efficient, reliable operation to ensure long-term value and user satisfaction.
What Most Buyers Get Wrong
Maximize Your Kitchen Space Wisely
When choosing a new side-by-side refrigerator, counter-depth models like the Frigidaire Professional 36 in. 22.3 cu. ft.
are excellent for maximizing kitchen flow. Unlike standard-depth units, they sit nearly flush with your cabinetry, creating a more integrated look and preventing the fridge from protruding too far into your walkway.
This thoughtful design is crucial for smaller kitchens where every inch counts, ensuring you can still move freely and access other appliances without obstruction.
Understanding Cubic Foot Capacity for Your Needs
Side-by-side refrigerators offer a distinct division between fresh food and freezer space. For instance, the GE 25.3 cu. ft.
model breaks down into 16.1 cu. ft.
for fresh food and 9.25 cu. ft. for the freezer.
When reviewing specs, note this distribution. Families who buy in bulk or enjoy frozen meals might prioritize a larger freezer section, while those who entertain or cook fresh meals frequently will appreciate a more generous fresh food compartment.
1. Frigidaire 33″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator with 22.2 cu. ft. Total Capacity,
Best for: budget-conscious families.
Offering 22.2 cu. ft. of total capacity with wire shelves, this Frigidaire side-by-side refrigerator allows for organized storage of groceries for a medium-sized household.
The two-section configuration provides automatic defrost and is powered by a compressor cooling system. It features 3 wire shelves and 3 racks for versatile arrangement of food items, fitting standard kitchens with its 120-volt compatibility.
Pros
- 22.2 cu. ft. total capacity for ample food storage
- Wire shelves offer a durable and easy-to-clean surface
- Compressor cooling ensures efficient temperature maintenance
- Automatic defrost system eliminates the need for manual defrosting
Cons
- Adjustable temperature control is not available, limiting precise climate settings.
This Frigidaire model is suitable for households that need a functional and reliable side-by-side refrigerator for everyday use. It provides essential features for organized food storage.
2. Frigidaire Professional 36 in. 22.3 cu. ft. Counter Depth Side-by-Side
Best for: modern kitchens prioritizing space.
With a counter-depth design and 22.3 cu. ft. capacity, this Frigidaire Professional side-by-side refrigerator offers a sleek profile that won’t overpower your kitchen’s aesthetic, enabling a more streamlined look.
This 36-inch model provides 14.3 cu. ft. of fresh food space and 8 cu. ft. of freezer capacity, supported by 3 glass shelves and 4 door bins. It features an external ice and water dispenser for convenient access to chilled drinks.
Pros
- 22.3 cu. ft. counter-depth capacity maximizes kitchen space
- External ice and water dispenser for easy access to drinks
- ENERGY STAR Certified for energy efficiency
- EvenTemp Cooling System maintains consistent temperatures
Cons
- Adjustable temperature control is not available, limiting precise climate settings.
Ideal for homeowners seeking a stylish and efficient refrigerator that complements their modern kitchen layout. The counter-depth design ensures it sits flush with cabinetry for a polished finish.
3. GE 25.3 cu. ft. Side by Side Refrigerator in Fingerprint
Best for: families seeking fingerprint resistance.
Featuring a 25.3 cu. ft. total capacity and a fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish, this GE side-by-side refrigerator helps maintain a clean look in your kitchen with minimal effort.
This refrigerator offers 16.1 cu. ft. of fresh food storage and 9.25 cu. ft. of freezer space, with 4 refrigerator door bins for organized placement of beverages and condiments. It includes an external ice and water dispenser and LED interior lighting.
Pros
- 25.3 cu. ft. large capacity for families
- Fingerprint-resistant finish for a clean appearance
- External ice and water dispenser for convenience
- ENERGY STAR certified for efficient operation
Cons
- Manual defrost system requires periodic manual defrosting of the freezer.
This GE model is a practical choice for households that value both storage capacity and ease of maintenance. The fingerprint-resistant surface is perfect for busy kitchens where smudges are common.
4. GE Profile 25.3 cu. ft. Side by Side Refrigerator in
Best for: tech-savvy households valuing efficiency.
With a 25.3 cu. ft. total capacity and ENERGY STAR certification, this GE Profile side-by-side refrigerator helps manage household energy consumption while offering adjustable shelves for customized storage.
This unit provides 10.45 cu. ft. of freezer space and 14.85 cu. ft. for fresh food, featuring 4 adjustable shelves and 4 door bins. A cold water and cubed/crushed ice dispenser is integrated into the front door for immediate access.
Pros
- 25.3 cu. ft. spacious capacity for bulk storage
- Adjustable temperature controls for precise food preservation
- External dispenser for cold filtered water and ice
- ENERGY STAR certified to reduce energy costs
Cons
- The automatic defrost system is effective, but manual defrost is an option when needed.
This GE Profile refrigerator is well-suited for families prioritizing efficient cooling and customizable storage spaces. The combination of capacity and smart features makes it a robust kitchen appliance.
5. Gallery 25.6 Cu. Ft. 36″ Standard Depth Side by Side
Best for: large families seeking advanced cooling.
The Gallery 25.6 cu. ft. standard depth side-by-side refrigerator features an EvenTemp™ Cooling System, ensuring consistent temperatures throughout to keep your groceries fresher for longer.
With 25.6 cu. ft. of total storage, this model includes glass shelves and 3 door shelves for organized placement. Its reciprocating compressor and automatic defrost system contribute to reliable performance and maintenance-free operation.
Pros
- 25.6 cu. ft. large total capacity
- EvenTemp™ Cooling System for uniform temperature
- CrispSeal® Plus Crispers maintain optimal humidity
- Automatic defrost system for convenience
Cons
- No external ice and water dispenser is available, requiring access inside the unit.
This Gallery refrigerator is an excellent option for large households needing substantial storage and advanced cooling technology. The focus on food preservation makes it ideal for those who buy groceries in bulk.
6. Frigidaire, 2 Door Apartment Size Refrigerator/Freezer Combo, 7.5 cu ft,
Best for: compact living spaces.
At 7.5 cu. ft. capacity with removable glass shelves, this Frigidaire 2-door apartment size refrigerator/freezer combo is designed for efficient storage and organization in smaller kitchens.
This upright unit features a top freezer configuration with a dedicated freezer compartment. It includes 3 glass shelves, a crisper drawer, and a full-width door bin for maximizing the use of its compact space, running on a rotary_scroll compressor.
Pros
- 7.5 cu. ft. capacity suitable for apartments
- Removable glass shelves for flexible storage
- Separate freezer compartment for frozen goods
- Adjustable temperature control for both sections
Cons
- Manual defrost system requires periodic defrosting of the freezer.
This Frigidaire model is perfect for studio apartments, dorm rooms, or small kitchens where space is limited. It offers a practical combination of refrigeration and freezer space.
7. LG 27 cu. ft. Side-by-Side Standard Depth Slim in Door
Best for: smart home enthusiasts.
Equipped with Wi-Fi connectivity and a touch control panel, this LG 27 cu. ft. side-by-side refrigerator allows for remote monitoring and adjustments, bringing smart technology to your kitchen.
This standard depth model offers ample storage with its side-by-side configuration and automatic defrost system. The inclusion of a water dispenser provides convenient access to chilled water, enhancing its functional appeal.
Pros
- 27 cu. ft. spacious capacity
- Wi-Fi enabled for smart home integration
- Touch control panel for modern operation
- Water dispenser for chilled beverages
Cons
- Adjustable temperature control is not available, limiting precise climate settings.
This LG refrigerator is ideal for smart home users looking to integrate advanced technology into their kitchen appliance lineup. It offers substantial capacity and convenient features for everyday use.
8. Frigidaire -5.4 Cu. Ft. – Side by Side 2-Door –
Best for: dorm rooms and small offices.
With a total capacity of 5.4 cu. ft., this compact Frigidaire side-by-side refrigerator provides 3.3 cu. ft. of fresh food storage and 2.2 cu. ft. for frozen items, suitable for minimal space needs.
This unit features two removable and adjustable glass shelves in the refrigerator section for flexible organization. The refrigerator also includes a vegetable crisper, and both doors have bins for additional storage of smaller items.
Pros
- 5.4 cu. ft. compact size fits tight spaces
- Adjustable glass shelves for customizable storage
- Includes a vegetable crisper for produce
- Door bins offer extra storage for condiments and drinks
Cons
- Manual defrost system requires periodic defrosting of the freezer.
This compact Frigidaire refrigerator is designed for spaces where a full-size unit is not feasible. It’s a good option for dorm rooms, small offices, or as a secondary refrigerator.
9. Kenmore 36″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Freezer – Accela Chill, Accela
Best for: large families with busy lifestyles.
Boasting an extra-large 29 cu. ft. capacity and Accela Chill technology, this Kenmore 36″ side-by-side refrigerator ensures rapid cooling to keep groceries fresh, perfect for stocking up.
This model features 7 glass shelves for versatile storage options and Accela Freeze to quickly chill newly added frozen items. The Multi-Flow Air System circulates air effectively across every shelf for consistent temperature maintenance.
Pros
- 29 cu. ft. extra-large capacity for maximum storage
- Accela Chill and Accela Freeze for fast cooling
- Multi-Flow Air System for consistent temperature
- Fingerprint resistant finish for easy cleaning
Cons
- The water dispenser is for cubed ice only, lacking crushed ice functionality.
This Kenmore refrigerator is built for large families who need extensive storage and quick cooling capabilities. Its advanced features help preserve food freshness, reducing waste and saving grocery trips.
10. BLACK+DECKER 16 Cu. Ft. French Door Refrigerator with Built-in Ice
Best for: style-conscious renters.
This BLACK+DECKER 16 cu. ft. French door refrigerator offers a modern aesthetic with its bottom freezer and stainless steel finish, providing ample storage for essentials.
The full-width refrigerator compartment provides 11.15 cu. ft. of space, complemented by a 5.06 cu. ft. freezer. An integrated ice maker with a built-in sensor produces ice efficiently for your convenience.
Pros
- Modern French door design adds kitchen style
- 11.15 cu. ft. refrigerator capacity
- 5.06 cu. ft. freezer capacity
- Built-in ice maker for convenient ice production
Cons
- This is a French door model, not a side-by-side as per the roundup title, and lacks a water dispenser.
This BLACK+DECKER refrigerator is a stylish choice for individuals or small families looking for a refrigerator with a contemporary look and a convenient bottom freezer. It fits well in most standard kitchen spaces.
Counter-Depth vs. Standard Depth Refrigerators
The primary decision point for a best new side by side refrigerator purchase now hinges entirely on whether your kitchen demands counter-depth or standard-depth dimensions, a distinction most overlook in favor of superficial feature comparisons.
Consider the Frigidaire Professional 36 in. 22.3 cu. ft.
Counter Depth Side-by-Side. Its 22.3 cu.
ft. capacity, deliberately parceled into 14.3 cu. ft.
fresh food and 8 cu. ft.
freezer, is engineered to fit flush with standard 24-inch deep cabinetry, presenting a sleek, built-in aesthetic. This is crucial for smaller kitchens or spaces where extending beyond the countertop creates an obstruction or an out-of-place visual element. If this seamless integration is your priority, the trade-off for this sleekness is a slightly reduced overall capacity compared to its larger siblings.
Contrast this with models like the LG 27 cu. ft. Side-by-Side Standard Depth Slim in Door or the Gallery 25.6 Cu.
Ft. 36 Standard Depth Side by Side, or even the Kenmore 36 Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Freezer – Accela Chill, Accela.
These standard-depth units offer greater cubic footage, with the Kenmore boasting an extra-large 29 cu. ft. capacity.
They protrude further into the kitchen but provide more room for families or those who entertain frequently and require significant cold and frozen storage. The GE 25.3 cu.
ft. Side by Side Refrigerator in Fingerprint and GE Profile 25.3 cu. ft.
Side by Side Refrigerator in also fall into this category, offering substantial storage for everyday needs.
The smaller units, such as the Frigidaire 33 Side-by-Side Refrigerator with 22.2 cu. ft. Total Capacity or even the compact Frigidaire -5.4 Cu.
Ft. – Side by Side 2-Door -, are for buyers with limited space, but the counter-depth versus standard-depth dilemma is a more significant fork in the road for the majority aiming for a full-sized appliance.
Don’t get sidetracked by stainless steel finishes or specialized ice makers if the dimensions will create an immediate functional or aesthetic issue in your galley or open-concept kitchen.
For those prioritizing a flush installation to maintain kitchen flow and a custom look, the Frigidaire Professional 36 in. 22.3 cu. ft.
Counter Depth Side-by-Side is the clear choice.
What to Look for in a New Side by Side Refrigerator
Capacity and configuration
For families needing ample storage, prioritize refrigerators with at least 28 cubic feet of total capacity. Look for models offering a generous number of adjustable shelves, allowing you to reconfigure compartments for tall items or large platters. Deep door bins are essential for maximizing space, especially for beverages and condiments.
A dual-crisper system, one with humidity control for fruits and another for vegetables, preserves freshness effectively. For freezer organization, seek out clear bins and multiple shelves to prevent items from getting lost.
Choose the largest capacity that fits your space and shopping habits for maximum utility.
Smart features and connectivity
For the tech-savvy, WiFi connectivity is the primary consideration, enabling remote temperature adjustments and monitoring via a smartphone app. Opt for models that offer advanced app features like predictive diagnostics and proactive maintenance alerts to address issues before they become critical. Built-in touch screens provide convenient digital hubs for family calendars, notes, and even recipe display, streamlining household management.
Voice assistant compatibility, often through integration with major smart home platforms, offers hands-free control for everyday tasks. Select a refrigerator that seamlessly integrates with your existing smart home for ultimate convenience.
Cooling technology and performance
Prioritize refrigerators employing dual-cooling systems, which independently manage refrigerator and freezer temperatures to maintain optimal conditions for different food types. Look for highly precise digital temperature controls, allowing for adjustments in single-degree increments. Effective humidity management, often indicated by specialized crisper drawers with adjustable vents, is crucial for extending produce life.
Models with advanced air filtration or deodorizing systems combat odors and extend freshness. For energy savings, select a refrigerator that holds an ENERGY STAR certification, guaranteeing efficient operation and lower utility bills.
Design and finish options
For a sleek, modern kitchen, choose stainless steel finishes that are fingerprint-resistant to maintain a clean appearance with minimal effort. Black stainless steel and other custom color options provide further aesthetic customization to match your cabinetry. Decide between counter-depth models for a built-in look or standard-depth units for maximum interior storage.
Pay attention to the specifics of the ice maker and water dispenser, such as the ice type produced and the dispenser’s internal design. Integrated handle styles offer a more seamless, streamlined look.
Select a finish and profile that harmonizes with your kitchen’s overall design.
Which Should You Choose?
- If you have limited kitchen space, choose a counter-depth model to maintain a streamlined look.
- If you frequently entertain or have a large family, opt for a model with 25+ cu. ft. capacity and adjustable shelving for maximum storage flexibility.
- If you have an apartment or smaller kitchen, a 7.5 cu. ft. or smaller model will provide essential cooling without taking up too much room.
- If you appreciate convenience and a clean aesthetic, look for features like external ice and water dispensers and fingerprint-resistant finishes.
Quick Best New Side By Side Refrigerator Buying Checklist
- Measure your space: Ensure the refrigerator’s dimensions fit your kitchen alcove, including door swing clearance.
- Consider capacity needs: Opt for a model that accommodates your household size and typical grocery shopping habits.
- Evaluate shelving flexibility: Look for adjustable shelves and bins to customize storage for various items.
- Check freezer organization: Prioritize drawer configurations and ice maker types that suit your freezing preferences.
- Assess smart features: Decide if Wi-Fi connectivity, app control, or smart displays are important to you.
- Review energy efficiency: Choose an ENERGY STAR certified model to potentially save on electricity costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Key Advantages Of A Side By Side Refrigerator?
Side-by-side refrigerators offer convenient access to both fresh and frozen foods at eye level, simplifying meal preparation. Their tall, narrow compartments are ideal for storing items like pizza boxes and long bottles, making them a practical choice for many kitchens.
How Do I Ensure A Side By Side Refrigerator Fits My Kitchen?
Measure your existing space precisely, accounting for cabinet depth and door swing. Ensure there’s adequate clearance for both refrigerator doors to open fully without obstruction, allowing easy access to all compartments.
What Should I Look For In The Freezer Section Of A Side By Side Refrigerator?
Consider the type of ice maker and its capacity, as well as the configuration of freezer shelves and drawers. Ample, well-organized freezer space is crucial for efficient food storage and retrieval.
Are Smart Features Necessary In A New Side By Side Refrigerator?
Smart features like Wi-Fi connectivity and app control can offer added convenience for monitoring and adjusting settings remotely. While not essential, they enhance the user experience for tech-savvy households.
How Does A Counter-Depth Side By Side Refrigerator Differ From A Standard Model?
Counter-depth models are designed for a more integrated, built-in look by protruding less into the kitchen space. Standard models offer greater internal capacity but extend further from the cabinetry.
Final Words
Choosing the best new side by side refrigerator can significantly enhance your kitchen’s organization and accessibility. With their distinct fresh and frozen compartments and often advanced features, these units offer valuable convenience for daily use. Invest in one that aligns with your space and lifestyle for lasting satisfaction.
