A counter-depth side-by-side refrigerator promises a seamless, built-in look that aligns with your cabinetry, but the trade-off in interior cubic footage can be a dealbreaker for families who need real storage. The challenge is finding a model that delivers the flush aesthetic without forcing you to squeeze groceries into awkward, shallow shelves.
I’m Mohammad Maruf — the founder and writer behind WellFizz. I’ve spent hundreds of hours analyzing compressor efficiency, airflow design, shelf configurations, and ice maker reliability across dozens of counter-depth models to find the units that truly earn their spot in a modern kitchen.
Whether you prioritize a massive interior, whisper-quiet operation, or a reliable external dispenser, this guide breaks down the top performers to help you find the best counter depth side by side refrigerator for your exact layout and lifestyle.
How To Choose The Best Counter Depth Side By Side Refrigerator
Choosing a counter-depth refrigerator means committing to a specific aesthetic, but the narrow design can compromise on storage depth and ice maker capacity. Before you buy, you need to understand the real-world numbers behind the flush look.
Measure Your Cutout Twice, Then Measure Again
Counter-depth models typically range from 24 to 30 inches deep, but the exact depth with doors closed varies by brand. Your cabinetry cutout width and height also dictate the final fit. Always check the product’s depth with the door open to ensure you have enough clearance for full drawer access.
Capacity vs. Cubic Feet Illusion
A 27 cu. ft. counter-depth model does not hold the same amount as a 27 cu. ft. standard-depth unit. The shallower shelves (often 14–16 inches deep) mean you may need to reorganize your shopping routine. Look for adjustable shelf configurations and gallon-sized door bins to maximize vertical space.
Ice Maker Output and Dispenser Type
Internal ice makers in counter-depth fridges often produce 2–4 pounds of ice per day, while premium models with external dispensers can hit 3–5 pounds. If you entertain frequently or have a large household, prioritize a model with a high-output ice maker and crushed/cubed options.
Quick Comparison
On smaller screens, swipe sideways to see the full table.
| Model | Category | Best For | Key Spec | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LG LRFLC2706S | Premium | Largest counter-depth capacity | 26.5 cu. ft. total capacity | Amazon |
| Forno Moena 36″ | Mid-Range | Quiet, low-energy operation | 238 kWh annual energy use | Amazon |
| KoolMore 22.5 Cu.Ft | Mid-Range | Small-space kitchens | 22.5 cu. ft. total, 29″ depth | Amazon |
| GE GYE22GYNFS | Premium | Fingerprint-resistant finish | 22.1 cu. ft., 36″ wide | Amazon |
| GE Profile PVD28BYNFS | Premium | Flexible convertible drawer | 27.9 cu. ft., Door-in-Door | Amazon |
| Kenmore 36″ | Premium | Extra large 28.6 cu. ft. | 28.6 cu. ft., dual evaporator | Amazon |
| Bosch 800 Series | Premium | Smart features, dual compressor | 20.5 cu. ft., frost-free | Amazon |
| Antarctic Star 20 Cu.Ft | Budget | Nugget and cube ice maker | 20 cu. ft., automatic defrost | Amazon |
| BLACK+DECKER 16 Cu.Ft | Budget | Compact footprint, reversible door | 16 cu. ft., 3.5 lbs ice/day | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. LG LRFLC2706S 27 Cu. Ft. French Door Smart Refrigerator
The LG LRFLC2706S achieves the rare feat of a flush, counter-depth profile while offering 26.5 cubic feet of total capacity — the largest in LG’s counter-depth lineup. The interior is surprisingly deep, with shelves that can hold full party platters and gallon milk jugs without issue. The Door Cooling+ system blasts cold air into the fridge whenever the doors are opened, which helps recover temperature quickly and keeps produce crisp.
The internal water dispenser keeps the exterior clean and clutter-free, though it does require opening the door for every fill. The ice maker can be turned off if you prefer the extra freezer space, and the Smart Cooling system with multiple sensors maintains a consistent 37°F to 38°F range throughout the unit. The PrintProof stainless steel finish resists smudges effectively, and the Cool Guard metal interior panels help retain cold air when the doors are closed.
One recurring feedback from owners involves the freezer’s deep bins — they are spacious but can be difficult to organize without sliding drawers. The lightweight doors have also been noted as requiring a gentle push to close fully. That said, the sheer interior volume and quiet inverter compressor make this the top choice for anyone who wants a built-in look without sacrificing shelf space.
Why it’s great
- Largest counter-depth capacity at 26.5 cu. ft.
- Door Cooling+ recovers temperature rapidly
- Quiet, energy-efficient inverter compressor
- Smudge-resistant PrintProof exterior
Good to know
- Deep freezer bins lack sliding drawers
- Internal water dispenser requires door opening
- Lightweight doors need a firm push to seal
2. Forno Moena 36″ 19.2 Cu.Ft French Door Refrigerator
The Forno Moena 36-inch model is engineered for near-silent operation thanks to its inverter compressor and low-noise design that owners describe as barely audible. At just 238 kilowatt hours per year, it also leads the field in energy efficiency among counter-depth French door models, making it a smart choice for eco-conscious buyers or those placing a fridge in an open-concept living area where noise carries.
The 19.2 cu. ft. total capacity (12.1 cu. ft. fridge, 7.1 cu. ft. freezer) is thoughtfully arranged with three adjustable glass shelves, two gallon bins, and two durable crisper drawers in the fridge section. The freezer features two pull-out drawers, a large bottom basket, and a built-in 4.3L automatic ice maker. The child lock, vacation mode, and Sabbath mode add versatility for different household needs.
Several owners note that the door bins are smaller than traditional full-depth fridges, which may limit how many condiment bottles you can store. The manual ice maker (a plus for some) requires periodic attention, and the freezer drawer capacity is moderate rather than expansive. However, the constant temperature stability and quiet operation make it a premium-feeling unit at a competitive price point.
Why it’s great
- Extremely quiet inverter compressor
- Lowest annual energy consumption in this list
- Multi-air flow cooling for even temps
- Includes child lock, vacation, and Sabbath modes
Good to know
- Door bins are smaller than standard depth models
- Manual ice maker requires user attention
- Freezer drawer space is moderate
3. KoolMore 22.5 Cu.Ft Counter Depth French Door Refrigerator
The KoolMore 22.5 Cu.Ft model is designed specifically for smaller kitchens or tight cabinet cutouts where every inch of depth matters. At just 29 inches deep and 35.8 inches wide, it fits into spaces that many other counter-depth units cannot accommodate, yet still offers a generous 22.5 cu. ft. of total capacity through clever shelf design and six door bins.
The double-flow cooling system distributes air evenly, and owners consistently report that the fridge holds steady at 39°F while the freezer easily reaches 0°F. The inverter compressor is remarkably quiet — multiple users describe it as “barely audible” even in open-plan layouts. The two large freezer drawers are spacious enough for bulk frozen goods, and the humidity-controlled crispers keep vegetables fresh for days.
One common criticism is the lack of traditional handles — the indented grip design shows fingerprints easily and can be awkward to pull with wet hands. The interior LED light is also dimmer than what you’d find on premium brands. Still, for a counter-depth fridge that prioritizes a compact footprint and silent operation, the KoolMore delivers excellent value.
Why it’s great
- Compact 29″ depth fits tight cutouts
- Inverter compressor is whisper-quiet
- Spacious freezer drawers for bulk storage
- Double-flow cooling maintains even temps
Good to know
- Indented grip handles collect fingerprints
- Interior LED lighting is slightly dim
- No external water/ice dispenser option
4. GE GYE22GYNFS 36″ Counter Depth Refrigerator
GE’s GYE22GYNFS delivers a polished built-in aesthetic with its counter-depth design and fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish. The 22.1 cu. ft. capacity is sufficient for a family of four, and the LED lighting inside makes it easy to locate items in the back of shelves. The space-saving ice maker is tucked away to maximize storage, and the unit maintains a consistent temperature with its hot gas defrost system.
Owners appreciate the smudge-proof exterior that stays clean-looking with minimal wiping, and the adjustable shelves allow for flexible organization of tall bottles and bulky containers. The freezer also received positive feedback for its even cooling and quick freeze performance. The water filter replacement cycle every six months is straightforward, though replacement filters cost around .
Some users have experienced issues with the ice maker jamming or producing insufficient ice for heavy usage, and a few reports mention the pink protective film on new units being extremely difficult to remove. The compressor reliability has been mixed, with occasional early failures reported. For a mid-to-premium price point, the GE offers a sleek look but may require patience with minor quirks.
Why it’s great
- Fingerprint-resistant exterior stays clean
- Bright LED lighting illuminates shelves
- Space-saving ice maker with good output
- Adjustable glass shelves for flexible storage
Good to know
- Ice maker can jam or produce low output
- Protective film is difficult to remove
- Some early compressor failure reports
5. GE Profile PVD28BYNFS 36″ 4-Door French Door Refrigerator
The GE Profile PVD28BYNFS is a 4-door French door refrigerator that stands out with its convertible middle drawer — a versatile zone that can switch between fridge, freezer, or deli temperatures. This flexibility is perfect for households that need extra space for cold cuts, cheese, or a tray of drinks without taking up main refrigerator shelving. The total capacity of 27.9 cu. ft. is among the largest in the counter-depth category.
The external water and ice dispenser offers both cubed and crushed ice, with a crescent-shaped ice that many owners find easier to chew. The Door-in-Door feature provides quick access to frequently used items while keeping the main compartment sealed. The Multi-Air Flow system ensures consistent temperatures, and the adjustable LED lighting allows you to change the brightness and even the color tone of the interior lights.
Setup requires careful leveling and door alignment, which took some owners over a day to perfect. The ice bin is smaller than standard GE models, requiring more frequent refills for heavy users. The Door-in-Door compartment runs about 5°F warmer than the main fridge, so it’s best for beverages rather than perishables. Despite these trade-offs, the convertible drawer and overall build quality make this a top contender for those who need maximum flexibility.
Why it’s great
- Convertible drawer functions as fridge/freezer/deli
- Large 27.9 cu. ft. counter-depth capacity
- Adjustable color LED lighting
- External cubed and crushed ice dispenser
Good to know
- Ice bin is smaller than standard GE models
- Door-in-Door runs 5°F warmer
- Setup may require extensive leveling and alignment
6. Kenmore 36″ 28.6 Cu.Ft French Door Refrigerator
The Kenmore 36-inch French door refrigerator offers a massive 28.6 cu. ft. of total capacity in a counter-depth design, making it the largest-capacity model in this roundup. The dual evaporator system keeps the fridge and freezer at optimal humidity levels independently, preventing freezer burn while keeping produce crisp. The Accela Chill technology boosts fan speed to rapidly cool newly added groceries.
The external water and ice dispenser provides NSF-certified filtered water and up to 3 pounds of cubed or crushed ice per day. The interior is highly configurable with humidity-controlled crispers, a foldable sliding shelf for tall items, and a multi-functional snack drawer. Owners praise the generous door bins that can hold gallon-sized containers, and the easy-access water filter location.
Some users have reported reliability concerns, with a few units failing within two years. The annual energy consumption of 740 kWh is higher than many competitors, and the lack of adjustable temperature control in the standard model limits fine-tuning. However, for families who need the absolute maximum storage in a counter-depth footprint, the Kenmore delivers unmatched shelf space.
Why it’s great
- Largest capacity at 28.6 cu. ft.
- Dual evaporator maintains separate humidity zones
- Accela Chill rapid cooling function
- Foldable shelf for tall items
Good to know
- Higher energy consumption (740 kWh/year)
- Some units reported early failure
- No adjustable temperature control on base model
7. Bosch 800 Series 36″ Counter Depth Refrigerator
The Bosch 800 Series 36-inch refrigerator is built around a dual compressor system, which separates the refrigeration and freezer loops for precise temperature control and zero odor transfer between compartments. The frost-free design eliminates manual defrosting, while the 20.5 cu. ft. capacity is optimized for organized storage rather than raw volume. The easy-clean stainless steel finish resists smudges and wipes clean easily.
Smart technology is integrated via Home Connect, allowing you to adjust temperatures, receive door-open alerts, and activate Sabbath mode from your smartphone. The recessed handle design gives it a seamless, built-in look that aligns perfectly with modern cabinetry. The internal water dispenser delivers filtered water without an external footprint, and the ice maker produces a steady supply of ice.
One noted downside is the smaller capacity relative to the price point — you are paying for engineering quality and reliability rather than maximum cubic footage. Some delivery experiences have been negative, with units arriving damaged or requiring extensive setup. However, owners who received a pristine unit report excellent performance and quiet operation, and the dual compressor design is one of the most reliable in the industry.
Why it’s great
- Dual compressor for separate temperature zones
- Frost-free technology eliminates manual defrost
- Home Connect smart app integration
- Recessed handle for a flush built-in look
Good to know
- Capacity is smaller (20.5 cu. ft.) for the price
- Delivery damage reported in some cases
- Setup may require professional installation
8. Antarctic Star 20 Cu.Ft French Door Refrigerator
The Antarctic Star 20 cu. ft. French door refrigerator offers a unique feature at its price point: a nugget ice maker alongside a traditional cube ice maker. This is a rare find in the counter-depth category, and it makes the unit appealing for households that love chewable ice for drinks and smoothies. The automatic defrost system and removable door seals simplify maintenance, and the multi-airflow cooling keeps food fresh without freezing produce.
The fridge is organized with two door shelves, adjustable glass shelves, and a large crisper drawer. The freezer is on the left and the refrigerator on the right, mirroring a traditional side-by-side layout within a French door form factor. The LED display and separate temperature controls for each compartment allow precise adjustments.
Reviewers note that the ice maker is slow, producing ice at a measured pace that may not keep up with parties. The overall finish is matte silver rather than high-gloss stainless steel, which some owners find less upscale. Still, for the price-conscious buyer who values nugget ice and a counter-depth profile, the Antarctic Star delivers surprising value.
Why it’s great
- Nugget and cube ice maker combination
- Multi-airflow cooling prevents freezing produce
- Automatic defrost system
- Separate temperature controls for each compartment
Good to know
- Ice maker output is slower than premium models
- Matte finish may not match high-gloss kitchens
- Limited door shelf count at 2
9. BLACK+DECKER 16 Cu.Ft French Door Refrigerator
The BLACK+DECKER 16 cu. ft. French door refrigerator is designed for smaller households, apartments, or office kitchens where a full-size fridge is overkill. Its compact footprint (28.3 inches wide, 29 inches deep) fits into narrow spaces, and the reversible door configuration allows for left or right opening. The bottom freezer drawer with integrated ice maker produces up to 3.5 pounds of ice per day, and the digital temperature control gives you precise management of both compartments.
Despite its smaller overall capacity, the 11.15 cu. ft. fridge section is surprisingly spacious thanks to full-width shelves and large door bins. The bottom freezer drawer offers 5.06 cu. ft. of storage with a pull-out basket for easy access. The ENERGY STAR certification ensures efficient operation, and users consistently praise the quiet compressor and even cooling performance.
Some owners have reported receiving units with cosmetic damage during delivery, and the interior LED lighting is dim compared to larger models. The stainless steel finish is faux rather than true stainless, which may not suit all kitchen decors. However, for a budget-friendly, compact counter-depth option with a functional ice maker, the BLACK+DECKER is a solid choice.
Why it’s great
- Compact 28.3″ width fits narrow spaces
- Reversible door for left/right opening
- Built-in ice maker produces 3.5 lbs/day
- Quiet inverter compressor at this price tier
Good to know
- Some units arrive with cosmetic damage
- Interior LED is dimmer than premium models
- Faux stainless finish may look less premium
FAQ
How do I measure if a counter depth refrigerator will fit my space?
Is counter depth the same as built-in or flush installation?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most users, the best counter depth side by side refrigerator winner is the LG LRFLC2706S because it packs the largest usable interior (26.5 cu. ft.) into a true counter-depth footprint while keeping noise levels low. If you need extreme flexibility with a convertible drawer and external dispenser, grab the GE Profile PVD28BYNFS. And for a whisper-quiet, ultra-efficient option that still looks premium, nothing beats the Forno Moena 36″.
Mo Maruf
I created WellFizz to bridge the gap between vague wellness advice and actionable solutions. My mission is simple: to decode the research and give you practical tools you can actually use.
Beyond the data, I am a passionate traveler. I believe that stepping away from the screen to explore new environments is essential for mental clarity and physical vitality.








