Dreaming of a sleek, modern kitchen?
A counter depth side by side refrigerator can help you achieve that built-in look—without committing to a fully integrated appliance.
These refrigerators are designed to extend the same depth as standard kitchen cabinetry, offering a streamlined aesthetic that blends seamlessly into the space.
However, one of the biggest challenges with counter depth models is balancing that stylish, space-saving design with interior storage capacity.
If you're looking for a counter depth side by side refrigerator that maximizes storage while maintaining a built-in appearance, you're not alone. Many homeowners want the best of both worlds—a refrigerator that looks great in the kitchen but still provides plenty of room for fresh and frozen foods.
In this guide, we’ll explore what makes a counter depth side by side refrigerator different, why storage matters, and which models offer the most interior space.
What Is a Counter Depth Side by Side Refrigerator?
Counter depth refrigerators are designed to sit nearly flush with kitchen cabinets, usually measuring around 23 to 27 inches in depth (excluding handles).
A cabinet depth side by side refrigerator is shallower than standard-depth refrigerators, which may extend six inches or so into the kitchen. The benefit of a counter depth model is that it creates a cleaner, more built-in look while making it easier to move around the kitchen without the appliance protruding into the walkway.
A side by side refrigerator features two vertical compartments: one for fresh food and one for frozen items, making it easy to access all your items. This design is ideal for organization because it provides easy access to both sections without stooping down, as is common with bottom freezer models.
Many side-by-side refrigerators offer adjustable shelving, deep door bins, and specialized compartments to maximize storage. While some find them less accommodating for large items like sheet pans or frozen pizzas, shelving configuration and door storage play a key role in optimizing space.
➜ Learn More: 6 Best Counter Depth French Door Refrigerators
Why Storage Matters in Counter Depth Refrigerators
Because counter depth refrigerators are shallower than standard models, they naturally offer less overall storage capacity. This trade-off can be a concern for larger families or those who prefer to keep a well-stocked fridge.
However, storage space isn’t just about total cubic feet—it’s also about how well the space is utilized. Some counter depth refrigerators optimize interior organization better than others by using adjustable shelving, deep door bins, and high-efficiency storage solutions.
Common storage concerns with counter depth models include:
- Less depth for large platters, wide containers, and bulkier items
- Limited freezer space compared to standard-depth side by side models
- Reduced shelf space, making it harder to store tall or oversized items
Despite these limitations, many counter depth refrigerators use smart design elements to make the most of the available space. From sliding and foldable shelves to gallon-sized door bins, the right refrigerator can help minimize storage concerns while still offering the benefits of a counter depth design.
Top Counter Depth Side by Side Refrigerators with the Most Storage
Check out our reviews of the top five counter depth side-by-side refrigerators from Slager, featuring key highlights and expert insights to guide your decision.
GE Profile 36 in. 21.9 Cu. Ft. Counter-Depth Stainless Steel Side-By-Side Refrigerator
Shop GE Profile 36 in. Counter-Depth Side-By-Side Refrigerator
This GE counter depth side by side refrigerator with ice maker is great for active families, with its Quick Ice setting for faster ice production and advanced water filtration system for high-quality water and ice.
The interior is thoughtfully organized with pull-out drawers, adjustable shelves, and specialized freezer storage to maximize space and keep food fresh.
Nothing will get lost in the depths of your fridge! Busy moms will love the smudge-free, fingerprint-resistant stainless steel.
Top Features
- Quick Ice Setting – Increases ice production speed, ensuring you have plenty for drinks, gatherings, and daily use.
- Spacious Interior Drawers – Deep, well-organized storage for produce, deli items, and other essentials, keeping everything easily accessible.
- Fingerprint-Resistant Stainless Steel – Maintains a clean, smudge-free exterior with minimal effort, perfect for busy kitchens.
⭐Featured Side by Side Counter Depth Fridge Review:
"This is a well designed, efficient and attractive refrigerator. It operates quietly. The ice machine functions well. The temperature control settings are easy to navigate and responsive. I appreciate that when the doors open they remain stationary rather than swinging backwards until they hit an obstruction. It compares favorably to our previous side-by-side refrigerator from Kitchen-Aid. I cannot speak to its reliability since I’ve only had it a month."
Monogram 42 in. 24.5 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Built In Counter Depth Side-by-Side Refrigerator
Shop Monogram 42 in. Built In Counter Depth Side-by-Side Refrigerator
Monogram appliances are known for their luxury style and impressive performance.
This Monogram smart counter depth side by side fridge features an advanced temperature management system that ensures consistent cooling throughout, and the climate-control drawer allows for precise temperature settings to keep your perishable foods fresh.
With Wi-Fi Connect, you can conveniently manage functions from your smartphone. The interior of this built-in counter depth side by side fridge is well-lit with LED lighting, ensuring visibility while maximizing space, even in the vegetable and climate-control drawers.
Top Features
- Climate-Control Drawer – Customizable temperature settings help keep meats, produce, and dairy at optimal freshness
- Wi-Fi Connect – Monitor and control your refrigerator remotely using a smartphone app for added convenience.
- LED Lighting – Bright, energy-efficient lights illuminate every corner, making it easy to find what you need.
GE 36 in. 21.8 Cu. Ft. Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel Counter Depth Side-By-Side Refrigerator
Shop GE 36 in. 21.8 Cu. Ft. Counter Depth Side-By-Side Refrigerator
This GE side by side refrigerator counter depth offers a sleek design combined with excellent performance and organizational features.
Its counter depth design allows for a built-in look that blends seamlessly with your kitchen, while the fingerprint-resistant stainless finish ensures easy maintenance.
Inside, the refrigerator is equipped with edge-to-edge shelves for optimal storage, and the adjustable clear door bins free up valuable shelf space. Showcase LED lighting ensures visibility, and the easy-access ice maker provides convenience for your daily needs.
Top Features
- Showcase LED Lighting – Bright, energy-efficient lighting illuminates every shelf for easy visibility.
- Clear Door Shelves – Transparent storage bins keep contents organized and easily accessible.
- Fingerprint-Resistant Stainless Steel – Smudge-proof finish keeps the exterior looking clean with minimal effort.
⭐Featured GE Side by Side Counter Depth Fridge Review:
"Beautiful refrigerator with easily adjusted shelves for maximum flexibility. We love the clean design, the water and ice in all forms from the door and even the new temperature readings on the door itself. It is very spacious and the shelves on the doors for all of our condiments make organization a snap."
Cafe 36 in. 21.9 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Counter Depth Side by Side Refrigerator
Shop Cafe 36 in. Counter Depth Side by Side Refrigerator
This side by side counter depth fridge with water dispenser from Cafe combines stylish performance with thoughtful organization, featuring a graphite gray-colored dispenser and bright white interior.
Its water filter lasts six months, and it includes convenient features such as a child lock, door alarm, and LED dispenser light for enhanced usability. With easily removable door gaskets for easy cleaning and a well-organized storage system, including adjustable and fixed door bins, this fridge is functional and efficient.
The freezer section also includes a slide-out shelf and a sweet spot shelf for ideal storage of frozen items.
Top Features
- Child Lock – Prevents accidental changes to settings, keeping your refrigerator secure and family-friendly.
- Adjustable and Fixed Door Bins – A mix of flexible and sturdy storage compartments maximizes organization and accessibility.
- Water Filter Indicator Light – Alerts you when it's time to replace the filter, ensuring clean, fresh-tasting water.
⭐Featured Café Side by Side Counter Depth Fridge Review:
"Wonderful addition to our Cafe family! The refrigerator is beautiful, great layout and works perfectly."
Sub-Zero Classic Series 48 in. 29.1 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Side-by-Side Refrigerator
Shop Sub-Zero 48 in. Side-by-Side Refrigerator
This is the best side by side refrigerator counter depth if you desire a sleek, industrial look.
The Sub-Zero refrigerator boasts an impressive 29 cu. ft. capacity, which is by far the largest of our top picks. Its Split Climate intelligent cooling system ensures optimal preservation by maintaining a consistent temperature, keeping food fresher for longer.
The ClearSight LED lighting system illuminates the entire interior, reducing shadows and providing visibility even on the most crowded shelves.
Featuring premium materials, a sleek stainless-steel exterior, and advanced features like Wi-Fi connectivity and a superior air purification system, this refrigerator is sophisticated and incredibly functional.
Top Features
- Split Climate Intelligent Cooling System – Maintains precise temperature and humidity levels for optimal food freshness.
- ClearSight LED Lighting System – Bright, evenly distributed lighting ensures every shelf and compartment is clearly visible.
- Wi-Fi-Enabled Features – Allows remote monitoring and control via a smartphone app for added convenience and efficiency.
How to Get the Most Out of Your Refrigerator’s Space
When choosing a counter depth side by side refrigerator, look for features that enhance storage capacity and organization. Even if the cubic footage is slightly smaller than a standard-depth model, the right layout can make all the difference.
- Adjustable Shelves: Many refrigerators include shelves that slide, fold, or adjust in height, allowing for more flexibility when storing tall items like pitchers or large food containers.
- Gallon Door Bins: These deep door storage bins allow you to keep milk, juice, and other large bottles within easy reach, freeing up valuable shelf space inside the fridge.
- Flexible Storage Solutions: Some models offer customizable compartments that can convert between fridge and freezer settings, giving you more control over how you use your space.
- Built-In Ice Makers and Water Dispensers: While convenient, these features can take up valuable freezer space. Some models have space-saving ice makers built into the door rather than the interior shelving.
- Temperature-Controlled Drawers: Designed for storing meats, cheeses, and produce at optimal temperatures, these drawers help keep food fresh while maximizing available space.
Modern Features That Improve Storage and Efficiency
Today’s counter depth side by side refrigerators come equipped with innovative features that enhance both storage and efficiency. Smart technology plays a big role in helping homeowners keep track of what’s inside their fridge, reducing food waste and improving organization.
For example, some high-tech refrigerators allow you to scan barcodes or input expiration dates to keep track of your food inventory. These apps can send alerts when food is about to expire, helping you reduce waste and plan meals more effectively.
Modern counter depth refrigerators use advanced cooling systems to maintain consistent temperatures while using less energy. Look for ENERGY STAR-certified models that provide efficiency without sacrificing storage space.
You may also want to find a model with dual evaporators and advanced air filtration. These features help maintain separate humidity levels in the fridge and freezer sections, keeping produce fresh and preventing odors from mixing between compartments.
➜ Learn More: 8 Best Counter Depth Refrigerators for Small Kitchens
Which Is Better: Built-In or Freestanding?
When shopping for a counter depth side by side refrigerator, you’ll need to decide between built-in and freestanding models. Both options offer a counter depth design, but they have key differences in appearance and storage capacity.
Built-in refrigerators are designed to be installed flush with cabinetry for a seamless, high-end look. They often feature panel-ready designs that allow you to customize the exterior to match your kitchen. However, built-in refrigerators tend to have slightly less storage space due to their custom fit—and their price tag is typically higher.
On the other hand, freestanding models are easier to install and often provide more storage capacity than built-in models. They still align well with cabinetry but offer more flexibility in terms of placement and size.
If maximizing storage is a priority, a freestanding counter depth model will typically give you more interior space. However, if a custom, integrated kitchen design is your main focus, a built-in refrigerator may be the better choice.
Choosing the Best Counter Depth Refrigerator for Your Needs
Finding the right side by side counter depth fridge means balancing storage capacity with style and functionality. While counter depth models may have less depth than standard options, the best designs make up for it with smart storage solutions like adjustable shelves, deep door bins, and space-saving ice makers.
At Slager Appliances, we offer a variety of counter depth side by side refrigerators from top brands, helping you find the perfect fit for your kitchen. Whether you prioritize storage, smart features, or a sleek built-in look, we’re here to help you make the best choice.
Visit one of our Iowa locations, or explore our selection online to find a refrigerator that meets your needs.
➜ Learn More: Understanding Refrigerator Sizes and Dimensions Before You Buy
Frequently Asked Questions
The largest counter depth side by side refrigerators typically offer around 21 to 24 cubic feet of total storage. Brands like GE, Samsung, and LG offer some of the roomiest models in this category, with well-designed interiors that maximize usable space. Sub-Zero even offers a 29 cubic feet model.
Yes, counter depth refrigerators generally have less storage than standard-depth models because they are shallower. However, many counter depth models include features like deep door bins, adjustable shelving, and space-saving ice makers to make up for the reduced depth.
GE Profile, LG, Whirlpool, and Samsung counter depth side by side refrigerator models offer some of the best counter depth side by side refrigerators in terms of storage capacity and organization. These models often include innovative features that maximize space without sacrificing performance.
Built-in ice makers and water dispensers take up freezer space, reducing available storage for frozen foods. Some models minimize this impact by placing the ice maker inside the door rather than using interior shelving space.
To maximize space, use adjustable shelves strategically, store frequently used items in door bins, and group similar foods in dedicated sections. Keeping taller items on adjustable shelves and utilizing storage bins can help maintain organization and accessibility.
Why Trust Slager Appliances?
Founded over 70 years ago, Slager Appliances is a family-owned, independent appliance retailer based out of Iowa City, IA. Slager has competitive prices and industry knowledge in delivering and installing all major appliance brands. Large enough to offer competitive pricing yet small enough to continue offering the “white glove” service we pride ourselves on, our focus is always on the customer experience — from the first step into a showroom to the purchase transaction to well after your new appliance has been installed.
Whether you need to replace an old appliance, or if you’re remodeling and need an entire kitchen full of new brand-name products we are with you all the way. We will work with you to find a product that fits your needs, budget, and lifestyle.
Shop Monogram Appliance Package at Slager Appliances
Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can do today, and shop Monogram Appliances online at Slager Appliances. Our friendly experts are always happy to help you find the best Monogram kitchen packages for your home — whether you call us at 319-337-3833, email us, or use our online chat feature. Better yet, stop by any of our Slager Appliances in Iowa City, IA. Visit us today!
→ Learn More: What Size Refrigerator Do I Need?