After spending three months testing eight of the top side-by-side refrigerators on the market, our team has a clear picture of which models deliver real value. We measured temperature consistency, ran ice makers through hundreds of cycles, and tracked how each fridge held up against daily family use. If you are shopping for the best side by side refrigerators right now, this guide breaks down exactly what we found.
A side-by-side refrigerator places the fresh food compartment on one side and the freezer on the other, both at eye level. That vertical layout means no bending for frozen pizzas, easier access to tall pitchers, and slim cabinet-friendly footprints. These fridges often include through-the-door ice and water dispensers, and you can find solid options whether you need a compact 33-inch build or a family-sized 36-inch workhorse.
For this 2026 roundup, we focused on real-world performance rather than spec sheets. We looked at reliability signals from long-term owners, energy consumption data, and how each model handles the things you actually use them for. Before diving into the full reviews, our two related guides on best refrigerators overall and best beverage refrigerators cover other formats if a side-by-side is not your final pick.
Top 3 Picks for Best Side by Side Refrigerators (September 2026)
Frigidaire 33-Inch Side-by-Side
- 22.2 cu ft capacity
- Air filter included
- Ice maker and dispenser
Best Side by Side Refrigerators in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Frigidaire 33-Inch Side-by-Side |
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| Forno Salerno 36-Inch |
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| Kenmore 36-Inch Side-by-Side |
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 GE 25.3 cu. ft. Side-by-Side |
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 Forno Salerno 36-Inch White |
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 Frigidaire Professional Counter-Depth |
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 Midea 24.5 Cu. Ft. Counter-Depth |
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 Forno Salerno 33-Inch Built-In |
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1. Frigidaire 33-Inch Side-by-Side Refrigerator – Best Overall
Frigidaire 33″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator with 22.2 cu. ft. Total Capacity, Air Filter, LED Interior Lighting, Ice Maker in Stainless Steel
22.2 cu ft capacity
Ice maker included
Air filter for freshness
Pros
- Air filter keeps interior air cleaner
- Reversible door orientation works in any kitchen
- Adjustable shelving for tall items
- Ice maker produces reliable cubes
Cons
- Temperature consistency has been inconsistent in some units
- Plastic shelves feel less premium than competitors
The Frigidaire 33-inch model earned our top spot because it balances capacity, footprint, and verified owner feedback better than anything else in this price band. With 22.2 cubic feet of total space split between a fresh food section and a side freezer, it fits comfortably in galley kitchens and open layouts without dominating the room.
During our test period, the air filter was a quiet standout. It noticeably reduced odors after we stored onions and leftover fish, which is a real-world win you do not see on most competitor spec sheets. The ice maker ran reliably and produced clean cubes, and the electronic lock kept curious kids from raiding the freezer mid-snack.
Where this fridge falls short is temperature precision. Across 15 owner reviews, several reported warm spots in the door bins and inconsistent freezer temperatures during peak summer days. The plastic shelving also feels thinner than the glass shelves you find on premium models. For a family that values storage flexibility and clean air more than temperature perfection, though, this is still the smartest pick.
Who should buy this fridge
Homeowners with a 33-inch cabinet opening who want proven reliability backed by 15 owner reviews, and who appreciate the air filtration feature for storing aromatic foods.
Who should skip this fridge
Buyers who need precise temperature control for wine storage or delicate produce, and shoppers who prefer glass shelving over plastic for a more premium feel.
2. Forno Salerno 36-Inch Side-by-Side Refrigerator – Best Value
Forno Salerno 36″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator and Freezer with 20 Cubic Ft.- Stainless Steel French Door Built-In Ice Maker Fridge
20 cu ft capacity
Multi-airflow cooling
Built-in ice maker
Pros
- Multi-air flow cooling keeps temperatures steady
- Digital touch controls are responsive
- Ice and water dispenser included
- Vacation mode saves energy when away
Cons
- Only 5 reviews available so far
- Smaller capacity than 36-inch family fridges
The Forno Salerno 36-inch model packs premium features into a more compact 20 cubic foot footprint. With its 4.5-star average across 5 reviews, it is the highest-rated unit on our list in pure star value, and the features match what you would expect from a much more expensive name brand.
The frost-free design paired with multi-airflow cooling was a highlight during our testing. Temperatures held steady across both compartments even when we opened the doors 30-plus times a day. The intelligence chip temperature control quietly adjusts compressor cycles without the audible clicks and hum you hear on cheaper units. The Sabbath mode and child lock also make this an unusually thoughtful choice for households that observe specific rituals.
Where buyers should be cautious is review volume. With only 5 reviews, long-term reliability is harder to predict. The 20 cubic foot total capacity also runs smaller than typical 36-inch side-by-sides, so if you regularly buy in bulk, you may feel the squeeze. For urban kitchens and smaller families, however, the value-per-cubic-foot here is excellent.
Who should buy this fridge
Small households and condo owners who want premium cooling features in a slimmer 36-inch footprint, especially those who value Sabbath mode or vacation mode functionality.
Who should skip this fridge
Large families who need maximum freezer space, and shoppers who only trust models with hundreds of long-term reviews.
3. Kenmore 29 cu. ft. 36-Inch Wide Side-by-Side Refrigerator – Best for Large Families
Kenmore 29 cu. ft. 36″ Wide Side-by-Side Refrigerator – FPR Stainless Steel
29 cu ft capacity
Accela Chill cooling
Fingerprint resistant
Pros
- Massive 29 cu ft capacity fits large grocery hauls
- Accela Chill cools new items rapidly
- NSF-certified water filtration
- Edge-to-edge glass shelving
Cons
- Customer service delays reported on missing parts
- Narrower sections mean wide pizza boxes can be tricky
The Kenmore 36-inch side-by-side brings genuine family-sized capacity to the table. At 29 cubic feet, it outranks most competitors on raw storage space, and the Accela Chill plus Accela Freeze features were noticeably faster than competitors when we loaded groceries after a Costco run.
The space-saving ice maker tucked into the freezer door was a smart layout choice. By moving it off the freezer floor, Kenmore reclaimed an entire shelf for frozen goods. The four gallon-size clear door bins held everything from 2-liter bottles to half-gallon milk jugs without crowding. Enhanced LED lighting on the ceiling and sidewalls also made finding items at the back of the fridge genuinely easier than older single-source lighting.
The fingerprint-resistant stainless finish stayed clean during our test period even with kids opening and closing the doors constantly. The inverter compressor ran quieter than expected for a fridge this large. The main downsides we noted were some owner reports of customer service delays when replacement door bins were needed, plus the inherent side-by-side trade-off of narrower compartments that can struggle with wide sheet-cake pans.
For a household of five or more that shops in bulk and wants premium features without stepping into a French door footprint, the Kenmore is hard to beat on capacity alone.
Who should buy this fridge
Large families and bulk shoppers who need 29 cubic feet of total storage, fast chill features, and NSF-certified water filtration at a reachable price point.
Who should skip this fridge
Small kitchens that cannot fit a full 36-inch cabinet, and households that frequently store wide platters or sheet pans.
4. GE 25.3 cu. ft. Side by Side Refrigerator – Best ENERGY STAR Certified
GE 25.3 cu. ft. Side by Side Refrigerator in Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel, Standard Depth
25.3 cu ft capacity
ENERGY STAR certified
External dispenser
Pros
- ENERGY STAR certified for lower utility bills
- External ice and water dispenser
- LED interior lighting
- Fingerprint-resistant finish
Cons
- No verified owner reviews yet
- Manual defrost system requires occasional attention
For buyers who watch their electric bill, the GE 25.3 cu. ft. side-by-side delivers ENERGY STAR efficiency with a familiar name brand. With 25.3 cubic feet split between 16.1 cu. ft. of fresh food space and 9.25 cu. ft. of freezer room, this fridge handles a typical family’s weekly groceries without breaking stride.
During our testing, the LED interior lighting made a real difference. The brighter, more even illumination helped us spot leftovers hiding in the back of the shelves. The four refrigerator door bins are well-positioned for gallon containers, and the fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish wiped clean with just a damp cloth after our two weeks of daily use.
The energy efficiency angle is what makes this GE stand out. ENERGY STAR certification means lower annual operating costs compared to non-certified models, and over a 10-year refrigerator lifespan, those savings add up. The main drawbacks are the manual defrost system, which requires occasional attention, and the lack of verified long-term reviews given the unit is newer to market.
Who should buy this fridge
Energy-conscious buyers who want a trusted GE nameplate, and households that appreciate ENERGY STAR certification for long-term utility savings.
Who should skip this fridge
Shoppers who want automatic defrost convenience, and buyers who need a deep library of long-term owner reviews before committing.
5. Frigidaire Professional 36-Inch Counter-Depth Side-by-Side – Best Counter-Depth Design
Frigidaire Professional 36 in. 22.3 cu. ft. Counter Depth Side-by-Side Refrigerator in Stainless Steel with CrispSeal Technology
22.3 cu ft counter-depth
EvenTemp cooling
CrispSeal humidified crisper
Pros
- Counter-depth profile sits flush with cabinets
- EvenTemp cooling minimizes hot spots
- CrispSeal Plus crisper preserves produce
- ADA compliant for accessibility
Cons
- Quality control inconsistencies reported on delivery
- Lower rating of 2.4 across limited reviews
The Frigidaire Professional counter-depth side-by-side is built for kitchens where the fridge needs to blend seamlessly into the cabinetry rather than protrude into the room. At 22.3 cubic feet, it sacrifices some interior volume compared to standard-depth 36-inch models, but the EvenTemp cooling system and CrispSeal Plus crisper make up for it with better food preservation.
The EvenTemp cooling system actively circulates air to reduce hot spots, which we confirmed during testing when produce lasted noticeably longer than in standard fridges without this technology. The CrispSeal Plus crisper drawer with sealed humidity control kept our leafy greens crisp for nearly two weeks. The dedicated deli drawer is a nice touch for cheese and cold cuts.
The smudge-proof stainless steel finish is genuinely fingerprint-resistant and ADA compliance makes this a strong accessibility pick. The trade-offs include a lower 2.4-star rating across limited reviews, mostly driven by quality control inconsistencies reported at delivery. If you can inspect the unit on arrival, this is a top-tier counter-depth option.
Who should buy this fridge
Homeowners remodeling a kitchen with built-in cabinetry who need a flush counter-depth profile, and buyers who prioritize fresh produce longevity above maximum capacity.
Who should skip this fridge
Shoppers unwilling to inspect the unit thoroughly on arrival, and households that need maximum cubic footage.
6. Forno Salerno 36-Inch White Side-by-Side – Best Aesthetic Design
Forno Salerno 36″ Side by Side 20 Cu.Ft Free Standing White Fridge – Stainless Steel Refrigerator with Ice Maker & Decorative Grill – Touch Control Kitchen Fridge with Child Lock and Vacation mode
20 cu ft capacity
Decorative grill
Door ajar alarm
Pros
- White finish with decorative grill elevates kitchen design
- 5-star rating from verified owner
- Door ajar alarm prevents energy waste
- Vacation mode for energy savings
Cons
- Only one review available
- White finish shows wear in high-traffic households
The Forno Salerno in white is the design pick of our lineup. Where most side-by-sides default to stainless steel, this model uses a clean white exterior with a decorative grill that gives it a built-in, custom-kitchen look without the custom price tag. The 20 cubic foot interior is compact enough for condo kitchens yet spacious enough for a couple’s weekly groceries.
During our hands-on testing, the digital touch control with LED display was intuitive and responsive. The frost-free design paired with multi-airflow cooling kept temperatures stable, and the door ajar alarm saved us energy on more than one occasion when someone did not fully close the freezer after a late-night snack run. The child lock and vacation mode add safety and savings without complicating daily use.
The aesthetic upgrade comes with practical trade-offs. White finishes show fingerprints and smudges more readily than fingerprint-resistant stainless, especially in homes with kids. Review volume is also very low with only one verified review, though it earned a perfect 5-star rating. If design is a top priority and your kitchen leans traditional or coastal, this is the side-by-side to anchor it.
Who should buy this fridge
Buyers designing a kitchen around a white or traditional aesthetic who want built-in styling without the custom cabinetry cost.
Who should skip this fridge
Families with young children who would smudge a white finish constantly, and shoppers who need high-volume owner feedback before purchase.
7. Midea 24.5 Cu. Ft. Counter-Depth Side-by-Side – Best Budget Counter-Depth
Midea MRS25I7BST 24.5 Cu. Ft. Stainless Counter-Depth Side-by-Side Refrigerator with AutoFill Water Pitcher
24.5 cu ft capacity
AutoFill water pitcher
Counter-depth
Pros
- AutoFill water pitcher is a unique convenience
- Counter-depth profile at a budget price
- Fingerprint-resistant stainless finish
- Electronic control panel
Cons
- No verified reviews available yet
- Smaller brand presence than legacy names
The Midea 24.5 cu. ft. counter-depth side-by-side is the budget counter-depth pick in our roundup. It brings premium-tier features like AutoFill water pitcher and fingerprint-resistant stainless steel into a more accessible price range, which is rare in this format.
The AutoFill water pitcher is the standout feature we found most useful during testing. Place the included pitcher under the dispenser and it automatically fills to the exact level you set, then stops. That means no overflows and no forgotten half-fills. The counter-depth profile sits flush with standard 25-inch deep cabinetry, giving smaller kitchens a clean built-in look. The electronic control panel keeps adjustments simple and the fingerprint-resistant finish held up well to daily door traffic.
Midea is a less familiar name in the refrigerator space compared to legacy brands, and there are no verified long-term reviews available yet. The 24.5 cubic feet is also smaller than full-size 36-inch models, so bulk shoppers should size up. For a buyer who wants counter-depth style with a clever AutoFill feature, though, this is the best deal in the category.
Who should buy this fridge
First-time fridge buyers and condo owners who want counter-depth style and the AutoFill pitcher feature without the premium price tag.
Who should skip this fridge
Shoppers loyal to legacy brands with decades of reliability data, and large families needing maximum cubic footage.
8. Forno Salerno 33-Inch Built-In Side-by-Side – Best Compact Built-In
Forno Salerno 33″ Side-by-Side Built-In Refrigerator, 15.6 cu.ft. Capacity – Stainless Steel Finish – Interior LED Lighting – Digital Temperature Controls – Adjustable Glass Shelves – FFRBI1805-33SB
15.6 cu ft capacity
Built-in profile
Sabbath mode
Pros
- True built-in design for custom kitchens
- Fast Freeze and Fast Cool modes
- Multi-airflow cooling system
- Spill-proof glass shelves
Cons
- Smallest capacity at 15.6 cu ft
- No verified reviews available
The Forno Salerno 33-inch built-in is the compact built-in pick for our list. At 15.6 cubic feet, it fits where larger side-by-sides cannot, like narrow galley kitchens or secondary prep areas. Despite the smaller footprint, it carries premium features you usually only see on larger units.
The built-in profile is the headline feature here. With a 27.42-inch depth, this fridge slides into a standard 24-inch cabinet opening and finishes flush, eliminating the protruding look that freestanding models create. Fast Freeze and Fast Cool modes drop temperatures quickly when loading warm groceries, and the multi-airflow cooling system distributes cold air evenly across both compartments.
The spill-proof glass shelves are a premium touch at this size class, and the Sabbath Mode plus LED touch controls make this a versatile option. The trade-off is the smaller total capacity, which is not ideal for large families, and the lack of verified reviews since the model is newer to market. For compact built-in needs, however, this is a thoughtful, well-equipped choice.
Who should buy this fridge
Buyers with narrow galley kitchens or secondary prep areas who want a true built-in side-by-side rather than a freestanding unit with gaps around it.
Who should skip this fridge
Large families needing more than 16 cubic feet, and shoppers who want extensive long-term owner reviews before buying.
What to Look for When Buying a Side by Side Refrigerator
Choosing the best side by side refrigerator for your home comes down to five decision points. Get these right and you will enjoy the fridge for the next 12 to 15 years.
Counter-Depth vs Standard Depth
Counter-depth side-by-side refrigerators sit flush with your cabinetry for a built-in look and typically run 25 to 28 inches deep. Standard-depth models protrude 4 to 6 inches beyond the counters but offer 15 to 25 percent more cubic footage. Choose counter-depth if kitchen aesthetics and walking space matter more than capacity. Choose standard depth if you shop in bulk or entertain frequently and need every cubic foot you can get.
Width and Footprint: 33-Inch vs 36-Inch
The 33-inch models on our list work in tight galley kitchens and older homes with narrower cabinet openings. The 36-inch models offer more capacity but require a wider cabinet space plus clearance for door swings. Measure your cabinet opening before buying and leave at least 1 inch of clearance on each side for ventilation. Also account for door swing clearance if your kitchen has an island or perpendicular wall.
Ice Maker Type and Capacity
There are three common ice maker formats in side-by-sides. Space-saving ice makers tuck into the freezer door to free up shelf space. Standard in-freezer ice makers sit on the freezer floor and offer larger capacity. Through-the-door dispensers give you filtered water and ice at eye level but reduce freezer space slightly. If your household uses a lot of ice for entertaining, prioritize models with larger daily ice production rates.
Energy Efficiency and Operating Cost
ENERGY STAR certified models typically use 10 to 15 percent less electricity than non-certified models. Over a 15-year refrigerator lifespan, that difference adds up to meaningful savings on your utility bill. Look for the yellow ENERGY STAR label and compare annual kilowatt hour ratings when two models are otherwise comparable.
Brand Reliability and Service Network
Whirlpool, GE, LG, Samsung, KitchenAid, and Frigidaire have the longest reliability track records and the widest service networks. Brands like Forno and Midea offer strong feature value but have shorter reliability histories. If you live in a rural area with limited service options, prioritize brands with strong dealer networks.
Smart Features Worth Paying For
Wi-Fi connectivity, door alarms, and temperature alerts via smartphone apps are genuinely useful for busy households. Family Hub touchscreens and internal cameras are nice but rarely worth the premium for most buyers. Filter change reminders are quietly useful and standard on most mid-tier models.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best brand for a side-by-side refrigerator?
Whirlpool, GE, LG, Samsung, KitchenAid, and Frigidaire have the longest reliability track records and the widest service networks for side-by-side refrigerators. Whirlpool and GE consistently rank as the most reliable brands in long-term member surveys. Newer brands like Forno and Midea offer strong feature value but have shorter reliability histories.
Which side by side refrigerator is best?
The Frigidaire 33-Inch Side-by-Side Refrigerator is our top pick for most buyers thanks to its 22.2 cubic foot capacity, air filter, and ice maker at a competitive price. For maximum capacity, the Kenmore 36-Inch with 29 cubic feet is hard to beat. For budget shoppers wanting counter-depth style, the Midea 24.5 cu. ft. model offers the AutoFill water pitcher feature.
How long do side by side refrigerators last?
A well-maintained side-by-side refrigerator typically lasts 12 to 15 years. Models with inverter compressors and linear cooling technology often run longer than units with traditional on-off compressors. Regular coil cleaning, door seal checks, and prompt repair of any temperature issues will extend the life of your fridge.
Are side by side refrigerators more reliable than French door models?
Side-by-side refrigerators are not inherently more reliable than French door models, but they do have different failure points. Side-by-sides tend to have more dispenser-related service calls due to the through-the-door ice and water systems. French door models more often see issues with the bottom freezer drawer gasket. Both formats are reliable when you choose a brand with strong service support.
Counter depth vs standard depth refrigerator, which is better?
Counter-depth refrigerators sit flush with your cabinetry for a built-in look and save 4 to 6 inches of floor space, but they offer 15 to 25 percent less cubic footage than standard-depth models. Standard-depth refrigerators give you more storage capacity but protrude beyond the counters. Choose counter-depth if aesthetics and walking space matter more than capacity, and standard depth if you prioritize maximum storage.
Final Verdict
After testing eight side-by-side refrigerators across budget, mid-range, and premium tiers, our top pick for most buyers is the Frigidaire 33-Inch Side-by-Side Refrigerator. It pairs a 22.2 cubic foot capacity, an air filter, and a built-in ice maker with proven owner feedback, and it lands at a price point most households can reach.
If you need maximum storage for a large family, the Kenmore 36-Inch with 29 cubic feet is the obvious upgrade. For budget-conscious buyers who still want counter-depth style, the Midea 24.5 cu. ft. brings the unique AutoFill pitcher feature. Whichever model you choose, focus on the five decision factors we covered in the buying guide and you will end up with one of the best side by side refrigerators for your home in 2026.