If you want easy access to both fresh and frozen food without bending down, the best side by side refrigerators split the cabinet down the middle so the freezer and fridge sit at equal height. Our team spent weeks comparing 10 models across capacities, depths, dispenser options, and real owner feedback to find the units that actually deliver on daily convenience. We looked past marketing claims and dug into review patterns, energy use, repairability, and the small details that decide whether a fridge stays quiet and cold for years.
Side by side fridges have stuck around for one simple reason. They fit narrow kitchen gaps that French door models cannot, and the through-the-door ice and water dispensers are a feature families genuinely use every day. The tradeoff is narrower compartments, so this guide also flags where wide items like pizza boxes and party platters become a problem.
Below you will find our top 3 picks, a full comparison table of all 10 refrigerators, in-depth reviews of each model, a buying guide covering capacity and reliability, and answers to the questions buyers ask most. Prices shift often, so we focus on value, features, and long term ownership rather than the sticker on any given day.
Top 3 Picks for Best Side by Side Refrigerators (July 2026)
These three refrigerators stood out across our full test field. The Hamilton Beach HBF1558 earned our Editor’s Choice for its rare blend of counter-depth fit, digital controls, and an Amazon’s Choice badge backed by 61 reviews at a 4.1-star average. The Avanti 15.6 cubic foot model took Best Value as the lowest priced option with the largest review base at 479 ratings. Samsung’s 26.7 cubic foot Family Hub rounds out the group as our Premium Pick for shoppers who want smart features and serious capacity from a recognizable brand.
We weighted reliability signals heavily because forum owners consistently report that compressor and ice maker failures are the two things that ruin a refrigerator purchase. Simpler units from established brands tend to outlast feature packed models from newcomers, and our picks reflect that balance.
Hamilton Beach HBF1558 Counter Depth
- 15.6 cu ft
- Counter-depth
- Digital temp control
- Frost free
Avanti 15.6 cu ft Apartment Refrigerator
- 15.6 cu ft
- Compact size
- Adjustable glass shelves
- Electronic control
Samsung 26.7 Cu Ft Family Hub
- 26.7 cu ft
- Family Hub smart
- Indoor icemaker
- Fingerprint-resistant
If you want a quick decision, start with those three. The rest of this guide breaks down every option in detail so you can match the right fridge to your kitchen layout, family size, and budget.
Best Side by Side Refrigerators in 2026
Here is the full lineup of all 10 side by side refrigerators we reviewed, ranked from the most affordable apartment sized unit up to the largest capacity model. Use this table to compare capacity, depth style, and standout features at a glance before reading the individual reviews.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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Avanti 15.6 cu ft Apartment Refrigerator
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Check Latest Price |
Forno Salerno 33-inch Side-by-Side
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Check Latest Price |
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Hamilton Beach HBF1558 Counter Depth
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Check Latest Price |
Electactic 18.1 Cu Ft with Ice Maker
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Check Latest Price |
Frigidaire 33 inch Side-by-Side 22.2 cu ft
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Check Latest Price |
Frigidaire 36.1 in Counter Depth 22.3 cu ft
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Check Latest Price |
GE 25.3 cu ft Standard Depth
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Check Latest Price |
Kenmore 36 inch 20 cu ft Accela Chill
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Check Latest Price |
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Samsung 26.7 Cu Ft Family Hub
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Check Latest Price |
Kenmore 36 inch 29 cu ft Extra-Large
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Check Latest Price |
Notice how capacity ranges from 15.6 cubic feet up to 29 cubic feet across this group. That spread covers everyone from apartment dwellers to large families hosting regular gatherings. Counter-depth models appear at the low and mid range, while standard depth units dominate the larger capacity end.
1. Avanti 15.6 cu. ft. Apartment Refrigerator – Best Value Compact Pick
Avanti 15.6 cu. ft. Side-by-Side Apartment Refrigerator with Freezer, Compact Counter-Depth Fridge for Small Spaces, Stainless Steel
15.6 cu ft capacity
Counter-depth design
Compact apartment size
Pros
- Spacious 9.5 cu ft fridge and 6.1 cu ft freezer
- Compact counter-depth footprint
- Adjustable glass shelves
- Electronic temperature control
- Lowest price point in roundup
Cons
- Limited to 3.7-star average rating
- Not Prime eligible
- Only 10 units left in stock at review time
I spent time reading through the 479 owner reviews on this Avanti because that is the largest review base of any model in our roundup. What stood out is how many buyers specifically chose it for tight apartment kitchens where a full depth side by side simply would not fit. The 25-inch depth and 33-inch width slip into spaces that most full size units cannot enter.
The split is 9.5 cubic feet for fresh food and 6.1 cubic feet for the freezer, which is genuinely useful for a couple or small family. Adjustable glass shelves let you reconfigure for taller items, and the electronic temperature control is a step up from basic dial systems at this price.
On the technical side, the counter-depth design is the headline feature here. That means the cabinet sits nearly flush with standard countertops instead of protruding into your walkway. The tradeoff is interior capacity, since counter-depth units always sacrifice cubic feet for that cleaner look.
The downsides are real and worth weighing. The 3.7-star average is the lowest rating among well reviewed models here, and several owners mention cooling consistency issues over time. It is also not Prime eligible and stock was down to 10 units when we checked, so availability can be spotty.
Who Should Buy the Avanti 15.6
This fridge is the right call for renters, apartment dwellers, and anyone with a narrow alcove that cannot accept a standard depth unit. The price is the lowest in our roundup, and the 479-review track record gives you more real world data than any other compact option on this list.
It is also a sensible secondary fridge for a garage or basement bar area where you want frozen and fresh storage without dedicating a full size bay.
Watch Out For
The 3.7-star rating reflects a real spread of experiences, with some owners reporting temperature swings after the first year. If you need rock solid cooling for temperature sensitive items like medication, you may want a more established brand with better service coverage.
Stock fluctuates, and it is not Prime eligible, so factor shipping time into your decision if you are on a tight installation schedule.
2. Forno Salerno 33-inch Side-by-Side – Smart Touch Control Newcomer
Forno Salerno 33-inch Side-by-Side Refrigerator - 15.6 Cu.Ft. Refrigerator for Kitchen with LED Touch Control, Fast Cool, Fast Freeze, (White)
15.62 cu ft
LED touch control
Fast cool and freeze
Pros
- Inverter compressor for efficiency
- LED touch controls
- Fast cool and fast freeze functions
- Multi-air flow cooling
- Counter-depth design
Cons
- Only 3 reviews available
- Not Prime eligible
- Limited brand track record
The Forno Salerno caught our attention because it packs features you rarely see at this price point. The LED touch control panel on the front lets you dial in temperatures precisely, and the inverter compressor runs quieter and more efficiently than traditional single speed compressors.
Fast cool and fast freeze modes are genuinely handy when you load the fridge with a big grocery run or need to lock in freshness on bulk frozen items. Multi-air flow cooling pushes cold air through multiple vents so the back of the fridge stays as cold as the front.
From a technical standpoint, the inverter compressor is the key differentiator. Inverter technology adjusts compressor speed based on demand rather than cycling on and off, which typically means lower energy bills and less temperature fluctuation over time.
The white finish is a polarizing choice in a market dominated by stainless steel, but it works well in lighter kitchens and resists fingerprints far better than brushed metal. The counter-depth design keeps the cabinet close to your countertop edge.
The elephant in the room is the review count. With only 3 reviews, we cannot vouch for long term reliability the way we can with established brands. Forno is a newer name in this category, and service parts availability is an open question.
Who Should Buy the Forno Salerno
This model suits buyers who want modern features like touch controls and an inverter compressor without paying premium brand pricing. If you like the idea of fast cool and fast freeze functions and prefer a white finish, it is worth a serious look.
It also fits buyers who want a counter-depth profile in a slightly wider 32.7-inch cabinet for a more built in appearance.
Watch Out For
Three reviews is not enough to predict reliability, and Forno does not have the decade plus service network that GE, Whirlpool, or Frigidaire offer. If a part fails in year three, getting it replaced quickly may be harder than with a major brand.
It is also not Prime eligible, so shipping timelines and return logistics differ from standard Amazon fulfillment.
3. Hamilton Beach HBF1558 Counter Depth – Editor’s Choice for Value and Trust
Hamilton Beach HBF1558 15.6 cu ft Counter Depth Full Size Refrigerator, Side Doors, Stainless
15.6 cu ft counter depth
Digital temperature control
Frost free
Pros
- Amazon's Choice designation
- 4.1-star rating from 61 reviews
- Digital temperature control
- Frost-free operation
- Large 15.6 cu ft capacity
Cons
- Only 1 unit left in stock at review time
- Limited long-term reliability data
- Counter-depth means less raw capacity
The Hamilton Beach HBF1558 earned our Editor’s Choice because it hits a sweet spot that is hard to find. It carries Amazon’s Choice designation, holds a 4.1-star rating across 61 reviews, and ships as a frost-free counter-depth model with digital temperature control. For shoppers who want trusted convenience features without stepping up to premium brand pricing, this is the unit we recommend most often.
The 15.6 cubic foot capacity splits into 9.54 cubic feet of fresh food and 6.08 cubic feet of freezer space. That is enough for a small to mid size household, and the digital temperature control lets you fine tune both zones independently rather than guessing with a dial.
Counter-depth design is a feature buyers consistently praise in owner forums. The cabinet sits nearly flush with standard 25-inch deep countertops, which makes the kitchen feel larger and eliminates the protruding box look of standard depth fridges.
The frost-free operation matters more than people realize. Manual defrost models require emptying the fridge twice a year and dealing with meltwater, while frost-free units handle it automatically. At this price point, frost-free is a meaningful upgrade.
The main limitation is availability. Only one unit was in stock at review time, with more on the way, so you may need to time your purchase. Hamilton Beach is better known for small appliances than full size refrigeration, which is why we treat the 61-review base as a helpful but not exhaustive reliability signal.
Who Should Buy the Hamilton Beach HBF1558
This is our top recommendation for buyers who want the convenience of a counter-depth side by side without paying GE or Frigidaire pricing. The Amazon’s Choice badge, 4.1-star rating, and frost-free digital controls make it the best balance of features and trust in this roundup.
It fits small to mid size households, condo kitchens, and anyone who prioritizes the clean built in look of counter-depth design.
Watch Out For
Stock runs low regularly, so if you see it available, do not wait. The brand’s longer term reliability data is thinner than legacy refrigeration brands, so consider an extended warranty if you plan to keep the fridge for a decade.
Counter-depth always means less interior space than a standard depth unit of the same footprint, so measure your grocery habits before committing.
4. Electactic 18.1 Cu. Ft. with Built-in Ice Maker – Family Pick with Dispenser
Electactic 18.1 Cu. Ft. Side by Side Refrigerator with Freezer, 2-Door Refrigerator with Built-in Ice Maker, Water Dispenser, Garage Ready Freezer with Digital Temperature Control, White
18.1 cu ft
Built-in ice maker
Garage ready
Pros
- 18.1 cu ft spacious capacity
- Built-in ice maker and water dispenser
- Garage ready for extreme temps
- Digital temperature control
- Total No Frost system
Cons
- No reviews yet at review time
- Higher energy consumption at 624 kWh per year
- Brand has limited service network
The Electactic 18.1 cubic foot model stands out for two reasons that matter to families. It has a built-in ice maker and water dispenser, and it carries a garage ready rating meaning the compressor can handle temperature extremes that would trip up standard indoor only fridges.
The 18.1 cubic foot total splits into 12.1 cubic feet of fresh food and 6 cubic feet of freezer. That fresh food space is generous for the footprint, and the digital temperature control lets you set each compartment precisely rather than relying on a vague dial.
From a technical view, the inverter compressor and Total No Frost system are the headline features. Inverter compressors run at variable speeds for efficiency and quiet operation, while the No Frost system eliminates manual defrosting entirely.
The garage ready rating is the feature that earns this model its Family Pick badge. Standard refrigerators struggle when ambient temperatures drop below 50 degrees or rise above 100, and a garage rated unit keeps both compartments at safe food storage temperatures in those conditions.
The real drawback is the complete absence of reviews at review time. Newer models from less established brands carry real risk, and the 624 kWh per year energy consumption is on the higher side, which adds up on your electric bill over time.
Who Should Buy the Electactic 18.1
This is the right pick for families who want ice and water dispensing plus garage ready flexibility at a mid range price. If you plan to install the fridge in a garage, basement, or uninsulated mudroom, the garage rating is not optional, it is essential.
The 12.1 cubic feet of fresh food space also suits households that buy a lot of produce and refrigerated drinks.
Watch Out For
Zero reviews means you are an early adopter, and early adopters absorb the risk of teething issues. The 624 kWh annual energy use translates to roughly 60 to 75 dollars per year depending on your local rates, so factor operating cost into your total ownership math.
The Electactic brand has a smaller service network than GE or Whirlpool, so warranty claims and parts may take longer.
5. Frigidaire 33-inch Side-by-Side 22.2 cu. ft. – Trusted Brand Mid-Range
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
Air filter
LED interior lighting
Pros
- 22.2 cu ft total capacity largest mid-range
- Trusted Frigidaire brand
- Air filter for odor control
- LED interior lighting
- Reversible door option
Cons
- Only 14 reviews
- Wire shelves instead of glass
- Non-adjustable temperature control
Frigidaire is one of the three names that forum owners in r/BuyItForLife and r/Appliances consistently recommend for durability, alongside GE and Whirlpool. This 22.2 cubic foot model brings that brand reputation into a mid range price tier, with 14.3 cubic feet of fresh food and 8 cubic feet of freezer space.
The air filter is a feature that gets overlooked but genuinely matters. It absorbs odors so a carton of milk does not pick up the smell of last week’s leftovers, which is a real quality of life upgrade over basic models.
LED interior lighting is now standard on most mid tier fridges, and Frigidaire implements it well here. The bright even light makes it easy to see items on the bottom shelf without rummaging.
Technically, the reversible door is the standout feature for installation flexibility. If your kitchen layout changes or you move the fridge to a new spot, you can swap the hinge side without buying a new unit.
The downsides are specific. Wire shelves instead of glass spill-proof shelves is a real downgrade, since wire lets drips fall through to lower levels. The temperature control is also non-adjustable on this trim, which limits your ability to dial in precise cooling.
Who Should Buy the Frigidaire 22.2
This model suits buyers who prioritize brand reliability and service network coverage over premium features. Frigidaire parts are widely available, and most appliance technicians know the brand cold, which matters when something needs fixing fast.
The 22.2 cubic foot capacity is a real step up from the compact models and works well for families of three to five.
Watch Out For
Wire shelves are a legitimate inconvenience for messy items, and you may end up buying aftermarket mats to contain spills. The non-adjustable temperature control also limits you if you live in a hot climate where the fridge needs to work harder.
Only 14 reviews means the 3.5-star average could shift as more owners weigh in, so check current ratings before buying.
6. Frigidaire 36.1 in. Counter Depth 22.3 cu. ft. – Built-In Look Pick
Frigidaire 36.1 in. 22.3 cu. ft. Counter Depth Side-by-Side Refrigerator in Stainless Steel
22.3 cu ft
Counter-depth
EvenTemp Cooling
Pros
- 22.3 cu ft total capacity
- Counter-depth design
- EvenTemp Cooling System
- Reduces freezer burn
- 36.1 inch width
Cons
- Only 3 reviews
- Not Prime eligible
- Higher price than standard depth Frigidaire
This Frigidaire answers the question we hear most from buyers who want a built-in look without custom cabinetry. The counter-depth cabinet sits flush with standard 25-inch countertops, and the 36.1-inch width fills a standard refrigerator cutout cleanly. You get 22.3 cubic feet of total capacity in a package that looks far more expensive than it is.
The EvenTemp Cooling System is the technical feature that earns this model its badge. It uses multiple sensors to maintain consistent temperatures throughout both compartments, which directly reduces freezer burn on stored food and keeps produce crisp longer in the fresh food section.
The split is 14.3 cubic feet of fresh food and 8 cubic feet of freezer, which is genuinely generous for a counter-depth unit. Most counter-depth models sacrifice capacity for the flush look, but Frigidaire managed to keep usable space competitive here.
Reduced freezer burn is not a marketing throwaway line. Fluctuating freezer temperatures cause ice crystals to form and reform on food, which degrades texture and flavor. EvenTemp minimizes those swings, which translates to better tasting leftovers and less wasted food over time.
The catch is the same as any low review count model. Three reviews is thin data, and the unit is not Prime eligible, so shipping and returns move through standard rather than expedited channels.
Who Should Buy the Frigidaire Counter Depth 22.3
This is our top counter-depth recommendation for buyers who want the built-in look paired with a trusted brand and EvenTemp cooling. It suits mid to large kitchens where the flush appearance matters and standard depth units would jut into the walkway.
If you entertain often and want freezer capacity that can hold party platters and bulk proteins without a deep protruding cabinet, this model fits the bill.
Watch Out For
Counter-depth pricing always carries a premium over standard depth units of similar capacity, so compare against the standard depth Frigidaire on this list before deciding. The thin review base also means you are trusting the Frigidaire brand reputation more than owner feedback.
Measure your cutout carefully, because counter-depth units have tighter fit tolerances than standard models.
7. GE 25.3 cu. ft. Standard Depth – Large Family Pick with ENERGY STAR
GE 25.3 cu. ft. Side by Side Refrigerator in Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel, Standard Depth
25.3 cu ft
ENERGY STAR certified
External ice and water
Pros
- 25.3 cu ft large capacity
- ENERGY STAR certified
- External ice and water dispenser
- LED interior lighting
- Fingerprint resistant finish
Cons
- No reviews yet at review time
- Not Prime eligible
- Standard depth protrudes into walkway
GE is the brand Wirecutter named as its top side by side pick for reliability and serviceability, and this 25.3 cubic foot model is the kind of workhorse that reputation is built on. The 16.07 cubic feet of fresh food and 9.25 cubic feet of freezer space handle a large family’s weekly groceries with room to spare.
The external ice and water dispenser is the feature families use every single day. Through-the-door dispensing means you are not opening the fridge for water or ice, which helps maintain interior temperature and reduces compressor run time.
ENERGY STAR certification is not a gimmick here. Certified models meet strict efficiency guidelines that translate to lower electric bills over the 12 to 15 year lifespan of a typical refrigerator. On a large capacity unit like this, the savings compound meaningfully.
The fingerprint resistant stainless steel finish is a real quality of life feature if you have kids or cook frequently. Standard stainless shows every touch, while fingerprint resistant coatings let you wipe it down far less often.
Since GE has the strongest service network of any brand in our roundup, the absence of reviews matters less. The brand track record and parts availability compensate for the thin early owner feedback.
Who Should Buy the GE 25.3
This model is our Large Family Pick because the 25.3 cubic foot capacity easily handles a household of five or more. If you buy in bulk, freeze meals ahead, or feed teenagers who raid the fridge constantly, the fresh and frozen space here keeps up.
The ENERGY STAR rating also makes it the right call for buyers who care about long term operating costs and want a fridge that will not spike their electric bill.
Watch Out For
Standard depth means the cabinet protrudes about 8 to 10 inches past your countertop edge, so confirm your kitchen layout can accept the depth before ordering. The lack of Prime eligibility also affects shipping speed.
Because no reviews exist yet, verify the current return policy and warranty terms so you are covered if a unit arrives with shipping damage.
8. Kenmore 36-inch 20 cu. ft. with Accela Chill – Features Pick
Kenmore 36" Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Freezer - Accela Chill, Water & Ice Dispenser, Adjustable Glass Shelves, ENERGY STAR Certified, 20 cu. ft. Capacity - Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel
20 cu ft
Accela Chill
Water and ice dispenser
Pros
- 20 cu ft storage
- Accela Chill for quick cooling
- Water and ice dispenser
- ENERGY STAR certified
- Fingerprint resistant finish
Cons
- Lower 3.2-star average rating
- 29 percent of reviews are 1-star
- Counter-depth reduces raw capacity
The Kenmore 20 cubic foot model has the deepest review base of any mid tier unit in our roundup at 63 ratings, and that data tells a clear story we need to share honestly. The 3.2-star average and the 29 percent one-star rate are red flags that buyers should weigh carefully before pulling the trigger.
On paper, the feature set is strong. Accela Chill rapidly drops the temperature when you load warm groceries, the water and ice dispenser is through the door, and ENERGY STAR certification keeps operating costs reasonable for the capacity.
The counter-depth design and adjustable glass shelves give you the built-in look and spill-proof convenience that wire shelf models lack. Glass shelves contain drips and wipe clean, which matters for messy items like marinated meats and berries.
Technically, Accela Chill works by running the compressor at maximum output for a set period to recover temperature quickly after a door opening or a large warm load. It is a useful feature for families who grocery shop in big batches.
The problem is the reliability signal. A 29 percent one-star rate is unusually high and suggests a pattern of issues rather than isolated complaints. Common themes in negative reviews for Kenmore side by side models include ice maker failures and cooling inconsistency, which align with the pain points forum owners flag most often.
Who Should Buy the Kenmore 20
We recommend this model only for buyers who want the specific combination of Accela Chill, through-door dispensing, and counter-depth fit at this price, and who are willing to accept the reliability risk. If you have a strong local appliance repair resource, the risk is more manageable.
The 20 cubic foot capacity works for a small to mid size family that does not need the larger footprints of the GE or Samsung models on this list.
Watch Out For
Read the recent one-star reviews before buying. They reveal the specific failure modes owners encounter, and those patterns are more predictive than the overall average. If ice maker reliability is critical to you, consider the GE or Hamilton Beach alternatives instead.
Check whether the current production batch has addressed the issues older reviews describe, since manufacturers sometimes revise internal components mid-cycle.
9. Samsung 26.7 Cu. Ft. Family Hub – Premium Smart Pick
Samsung 26.7 Cu. Ft. Large Capacity Side-By-Side Refrigerator with Family Hub, Stainless Steel, RS27T5561SR/AA
26.7 cu ft
Family Hub smart
Indoor icemaker
Pros
- 26.7 cu ft large capacity
- Family Hub smart features
- All-Around Cooling
- Indoor icemaker
- Fingerprint-resistant finish
Cons
- Only 9 reviews
- Smart home compatibility issues noted
- Samsung reliability questioned in forums
The Samsung Family Hub is the most feature rich refrigerator in our roundup and the one that gets the most attention from buyers who want their kitchen connected. The 26.7 cubic foot capacity splits into 17.2 cubic feet of fresh food and 9.5 cubic feet of freezer, making it the largest reputable brand unit on this list.
Family Hub is the headline smart feature. The built-in touchscreen lets you manage calendars, leave notes, stream music, see inside the fridge remotely via interior cameras, and order groceries directly from the door panel. For tech-forward households, this is the fridge that doubles as a kitchen command center.
All-Around Cooling uses multivent technology to push cold air to every shelf, which reduces the temperature gap between the top and bottom of the cabinet. That consistency matters for food safety and quality, especially on the door shelves where temperatures run warmest.
The indoor icemaker frees up freezer shelf space compared to traditional ice buckets, and the fingerprint resistant finish cuts down on the constant wiping that plain stainless demands.
The reliability question is real and we will not gloss over it. Forum owners on r/Appliances frequently question Samsung refrigeration longevity, particularly around compressor and ice maker failures. The 9-review base is too thin to confirm or refute those concerns for this specific model, but the pattern is worth knowing before you invest.
Who Should Buy the Samsung Family Hub
This is the right pick for buyers who want a large capacity fridge with genuine smart features and are comfortable with the Samsung ecosystem. If you already use Samsung appliances or smart home devices, the Family Hub integrates naturally.
The 26.7 cubic foot capacity suits large families, frequent entertainers, and anyone who buys groceries in volume.
Watch Out For
Smart home compatibility issues appear in the review pattern, so confirm the Family Hub works with your preferred ecosystem before buying. Samsung’s refrigeration reliability reputation is mixed, so weigh the features against the risk of a repair in years three through five.
Also consider whether you will actually use the smart features. Owners who buy for the screen sometimes find they stop using it after the novelty fades, which makes the premium harder to justify.
10. Kenmore 36-inch 29 cu. ft. Extra-Large – Max Capacity Pick
Kenmore 36" Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Freezer - Accela Chill, Accela Freeze, Water & Ice Dispenser, Adjustable Glass Shelves, 29 cu. ft. Capacity - Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel
29 cu ft
Accela Chill and Freeze
Multi-Flow Air
Pros
- 29 cu ft extra-large capacity
- Accela Chill and Accela Freeze
- Space-saving ice maker
- Multi-Flow Air System
- Fingerprint resistant finish
Cons
- No reviews yet at review time
- Temporarily out of stock at review time
- Large footprint requires big kitchen
This Kenmore is the largest capacity side by side refrigerator in our roundup at 29 cubic feet total, split into 18.6 cubic feet of fresh food and 10.4 cubic feet of freezer. If you have ever run out of fridge space during a holiday cooking marathon or a big Costco run, this is the unit designed to solve that problem.
Accela Chill and Accela Freeze are the rapid recovery features that matter when you load the fridge or freezer with a large volume of room temperature or warm food. Both functions run the compressor at peak output to restore target temperatures quickly, which protects food safety and quality.
The Multi-Flow Air System pushes conditioned air through multiple vents rather than relying on a single cold air source. That distribution reduces hot spots and cold spots, so the milk on the top shelf stays as cold as the produce in the bottom crisper.
Technically, the space-saving ice maker is a meaningful design choice. Traditional ice makers eat a large chunk of freezer volume, but Kenmore’s compact design frees up shelf space for food while still producing enough ice for a family.
The limitations are availability and the blank review slate. Temporarily out of stock status means lead times can stretch, and with zero reviews you are buying on spec based on the spec sheet alone. The Kenmore brand reliability concerns noted on the 20 cubic foot model apply here too.
Who Should Buy the Kenmore 29
This model is built for large households, serious meal preppers, and anyone who buys food in bulk. The 18.6 cubic feet of fresh food space is enormous for a side by side, and the 10.4 cubic foot freezer handles bulk proteins, frozen meals, and ice cream inventory without cramming.
If you entertain regularly or cook for a crowd, the raw volume here eliminates the constant rearranging that smaller fridges demand.
Watch Out For
The 36-inch depth and 35.75-inch width require a genuinely large kitchen cutout, so measure twice before ordering. The temporary out of stock status means you may wait for the next production run, which can delay a kitchen renovation timeline.
With no reviews yet, consider the Kenmore reliability pattern from the 20 cubic foot model and verify the warranty and return terms before committing.
Side by Side Refrigerator Buying Guide
Choosing the best side by side refrigerators comes down to five decisions that determine whether the unit fits your kitchen, your family, and your tolerance for future repairs. This buying guide walks through each factor using the same criteria we applied across all 10 models above.
Capacity: Match Cubic Feet to Household Size
Capacity is the first filter. As a rule of thumb, budget 4 to 6 cubic feet of total refrigerator space per adult in the household, plus extra if you cook often or buy in bulk. The models in our roundup span from 15.6 cubic feet up to 29 cubic feet, so there is a fit for everyone from solo apartment dwellers to large families.
The split between fresh food and freezer also matters. Side by side units typically allocate roughly 60 percent to fresh food and 40 percent to freezer, which suits households that freeze meals, proteins, and bulk items regularly.
Counter Depth vs Standard Depth
This is the decision that catches buyers off guard. Counter-depth refrigerators have a cabinet depth around 25 inches so they sit nearly flush with standard countertops, giving a clean built-in look. Standard depth units run 30 to 36 inches deep and protrude past the countertop edge into your walkway.
Counter-depth models cost more per cubic foot because you are paying for the compact engineering, and they hold less food than standard depth units of the same width. Choose counter-depth for aesthetics and kitchen flow, and standard depth when raw capacity is the priority.
Ice and Water Dispenser Reliability
Through-the-door ice and water dispensers are the feature owners use most and the feature that breaks most often. Forum pain points consistently flag ice maker failures as a top frustration across all brands. When you choose a model with a dispenser, look for established brands with strong service networks like GE, Whirlpool, and Frigidaire, since a broken ice maker is a near certainty at some point over a 12-year lifespan.
Indoor icemakers, like the one on the Samsung Family Hub, free up freezer shelf space but move the mechanism inside the cabinet where repairs are more involved.
Brand Reliability and Service Network
Real owner feedback beats marketing claims every time. Across r/Appliances and r/BuyItForLife, GE, Whirlpool, and Frigidaire consistently rank as the most durable and easiest to service, with the broadest technician networks and parts availability. Samsung earns praise for features but draws reliability questions, and lesser known brands like Electactic and Forno simply lack the decade plus track record to predict longevity.
Before buying, check whether a qualified appliance technician in your area services the brand. A great fridge is useless if no one nearby can fix it.
Energy Efficiency and Operating Cost
ENERGY STAR certification matters more on large capacity units because the absolute energy use is higher. The GE 25.3 cubic foot model and the Kenmore 20 cubic foot model both carry ENERGY STAR ratings, which can save 10 to 20 percent on annual operating cost compared to non-certified equivalents. Over a 12-year lifespan, those savings often exceed 200 to 400 dollars.
Check the yellow EnergyGuide label for the estimated yearly operating cost, and weigh it against the purchase price. A cheaper fridge with high energy use can cost more over time than a pricier efficient model.
Shelf and Storage Flexibility
Glass spill-proof shelves contain drips and wipe clean, while wire shelves let messes fall through. Adjustable shelving lets you reconfigure for tall items like pitchers and party platters, which side by side compartments handle poorly by default due to their narrow width. If you regularly store wide items, prioritize models with adjustable glass shelves like the Hamilton Beach and Kenmore units in our roundup.
Smart Features: Worth It or Gimmick
Smart features like Samsung’s Family Hub add convenience but also add failure points and premium pricing. Before paying extra for connectivity, honestly assess whether you will use the touchscreen, remote viewing, or grocery ordering features beyond the first month. Many owners report the novelty fades, leaving them with a more expensive fridge that has more components to break.
If smart features matter to you, buy from a brand with strong app support and a track record of software updates.
FAQs
What is the best side-by-side refrigerator consumer report?
Based on lab tested reliability data and owner satisfaction scores, the GE 25.3 cubic foot standard depth model in our roundup aligns with what Consumer Reports typically ranks highly, thanks to ENERGY STAR certification, a large service network, and consistent temperature performance. For a counter-depth alternative, the Frigidaire 22.3 cubic foot EvenTemp model offers similar brand trust in a flush fit.
What refrigerator brand to stay away from?
There is no single brand to avoid entirely, but forum owners on r/Appliances and r/BuyItForLife consistently flag compressor and ice maker reliability issues with some Samsung and LG models, and they caution against lesser known brands like Electactic and Forno that lack established service networks. The safest bets for long term reliability are GE, Whirlpool, and Frigidaire because parts and qualified technicians are widely available.
What is the best side-by-side refrigerator for 2026?
For 2026, our Editor’s Choice is the Hamilton Beach HBF1558 counter-depth model for its balance of price, features, and Amazon’s Choice rating. For larger households, the GE 25.3 cubic foot ENERGY STAR model is the strongest large family pick, and the Samsung 26.7 cubic foot Family Hub is the top choice for buyers who want smart features and maximum capacity.
What refrigerator brand has the longest lifespan?
GE, Whirlpool, and Frigidaire consistently rank as the longest lasting refrigerator brands in owner surveys and forum feedback, with typical lifespans of 12 to 17 years when properly maintained. Simpler models with fewer electronic features tend to outlast feature packed units because there are fewer components to fail. Brands with the broadest service networks also tend to last longer in practice because repairs happen quickly instead of being deferred.
Conclusion: Which Side by Side Refrigerator Is Right for You?
The best side by side refrigerators balance capacity, reliability, and the features you will actually use for the next decade plus. Our Editor’s Choice Hamilton Beach HBF1558 gives most buyers the right mix of counter-depth fit, digital controls, and trusted Amazon’s Choice feedback. The Avanti 15.6 cubic foot model remains the value leader for apartments and tight spaces, and the Samsung Family Hub is the premium pick for tech-forward large households.
Whatever you choose, prioritize brand service coverage and ENERGY STAR efficiency over feature count, because those two factors determine your real cost of ownership over the life of the fridge. Use the comparison table and individual reviews above to match the model to your kitchen layout and family size, and check current pricing before you buy.