Side-by-side refrigerators are a popular choice in many kitchens thanks to their spacious capacity on either side that can help keep more food stored at eye level. After evaluating top models from the best brands on the market, we recommend the Frigidaire 25.6-Cubic Feet Side-By-Side Refrigerator as the best side-by-side refrigerator overall. It delivers reliably stable temperatures, has adjustable storage and includes a convenient external water dispenser.
"Side-by-side refrigerators are a favorite for folks who want everything at eye level and easy-to-grab, fresh produce on one side, frozen dinners and ice cream on the other," says Hannah Pregont, an appliance expert and creative director at AJ Madison. "They're especially handy for busy families who rely on their freezer as much as their fridge." She adds that these models have the added benefit of narrow doors, which may be particularly well-suited to tight kitchen areas. We consulted Pregont's expertise and in-depth product research to provide a comprehensive list of the best side-by-side refrigerators to shop right now.
There's a lot to consider when making an investment for a brand-new fridge, so we consulted experts and performed in-depth research to provide top-tier recommendations.
Users should consider size, capacity, energy efficiency and other features before determining the appropriate side-by-side fridge to suit their particular home's needs.
It's crucial to look at a refrigerator's dimensions before making a purchase, measuring the space in your kitchen to ensure it will fit well. When doing so, be sure to account for a few inches of clearance on either side of the fridge.
If you plan to place the new refrigerator in the same spot as your old one, start by looking at the dimensions of your current fridge.
Deciding on the right fridge capacity for your home is largely dependent on the number of people in your household as well as how much fresh and frozen food you typically keep on hand. "Plan for 4 to 6 cubic feet of fridge space per adult in your household," says Pregont. "For a family of four, that usually means somewhere around 20 to 26 cubic feet total."
When it comes to side-by-side fridges in particular, Pregont adds that you should make sure you plan to use all the provided freezer space, since this style typically cuts the fridge and freezer space right down the middle.
From ice makers and water dispensers to large touchscreens that let you watch TV as you cook, there are a range of potential refrigerator features to consider. It's important to prioritize the ones you see yourself using regularly, so that you don't pay extra for a feature you'll never utilize.
As far as side-by-side models go, Pregont has a few recommendations to make the most of the specific style. "Adjustable shelving is key," she says. "Make sure you can move things around easily to fit taller or awkward items." She also recommends high-quality LED lighting to help you keep track of items stored in the back of the fridge or freezer.
Pregont adds that ice and water dispensers can be very convenient, as long as you're willing to give up some freezer space for the ice bin. But they're not all created equal: "Look for ones with solid filtration systems and well-sealed dispensers to avoid drips or leaks," she says.
Depending on the energy efficiency of your fridge, it can result in higher or lower monthly energy costs. Look for an Energy Star certification while shopping; it's a helpful way to indicate whether a fridge incorporates features like high-efficiency compressors and high-quality insulation that can help reduce energy usage.
Some newer models, like the Samsung Smart Side-By-Side Refrigerator With Family Hub, go above and beyond the Energy Star certification. Its AI Energy mode monitors and adjusts energy usage based on monitored user habits, which can also help decrease energy usage -- and save on monthly bills -- over time.
The home and kitchen team at Forbes Vetted has tested and evaluated a variety of large appliances -- from the best refrigerators to the best washer and dryer sets.