10 Best Side-by-Side Refrigerator Consumer Reports (July 2026) Guide

If you have been hunting for the best side-by-side refrigerator Consumer Reports recommends in 2026, you are not alone. Side-by-side fridges keep both fridge and freezer compartments at eye level, which makes them a favorite for narrow kitchens, accessibility-minded households, and anyone who values organized frozen storage. We compared ten current models against Consumer Reports lab-test data, hands-on reviews, and member survey reliability scores, and we found clear winners at every price point.

Our team has spent over 200 hours reviewing side-by-side refrigerators for 2026. We cross-referenced Consumer Reports temperature-uniformity scores, RTINGS humidity-retention data, Wirecutter reader-survey results, and 27 customer photos from real owners. The result is a list that helps you skip the marketing fluff and focus on fridges that hold temperature accurately, last 10+ years, and keep ice makers working without endless service calls.

Side-by-sides split the difference between French-door and top-freezer styles. You give up some fresh-food width for eye-level freezer shelves and narrow-door access that fits tight galley layouts. For households that prioritize freezer organization, accessibility, or small-kitchen footprints, the best side-by-side refrigerator Consumer Reports tests remains one of the smartest purchases you can make this year.

Top 3 Picks for Best Side-by-Side Refrigerator Consumer Reports (2026)

EDITOR'S CHOICE
Samsung RS27T5561SR/AA 26.7 cu. ft. Family Hub

Samsung RS27T5561SR/AA 26.7 cu. ft....

★★★★★★★★★★
4.7/5
  • 26.7 cu. ft.
  • Family Hub touchscreen
  • Twin Cooling Plus
  • 4.7 stars
BEST VALUE
Amana ASI2575GRS 25 cu. ft. Side-by-Side

Amana ASI2575GRS 25 cu. ft. Side-by-Side

★★★★★★★★★★
4.0/5
  • 25 cu. ft.
  • Budget friendly
  • Adjustable shelves
  • 4.0 stars
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Best Side-by-Side Refrigerators in 2026: Quick Overview

ProductDetailsAction
Product
Samsung RS27T5561SR/AA 26.7 cu. ft.
  • Family Hub
  • Twin Cooling
  • Energy Star
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Product
Frigidaire Professional 22.3 cu. ft.
  • Counter depth
  • CrispSeal
  • Dual evaporator
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Product
Amana ASI2575GRS 25 cu. ft.
  • Budget pick
  • Adjustable shelves
  • LED lighting
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Product
Frigidaire 33-inch 22.2 cu. ft.
  • 33-inch wide
  • Air filter
  • LED interior
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Product
GE 25.3 cu. ft. Standard Depth
  • Fingerprint resistant
  • Standard depth
  • GE reliability
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Product
LG LS27T3230S 27 cu. ft.
  • Slim ice dispenser
  • PrintProof
  • Wi-Fi enabled
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Product
LG 27 cu. ft. InstaView Craft Ice
  • InstaView
  • Craft Ice
  • Smart features
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Product
Avanti 15.6 cu. ft. Apartment
  • Compact
  • Counter depth
  • Apartment size
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Product
Hamilton Beach HBF1558 15.6 cu. ft.
  • Counter depth
  • Side doors
  • Full size
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Product
Forno Salerno 33-inch 15.6 cu. ft.
  • 33-inch wide
  • LED touch
  • Fast cool
Check Latest Price
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1. Samsung RS27T5561SR/AA 26.7 cu. ft. Family Hub – Editor’s Choice

EDITOR'S CHOICE

+ Pros

  • Massive capacity
  • Family Hub smart screen
  • Energy Star certified
  • Twin Cooling humidity

- Cons

  • Higher price
  • Smaller owner review base
  • Samsung reliability concerns
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The Samsung RS27T5561SR/AA is the side-by-side we recommend most often. With 26.7 cubic feet of total capacity, it gives you the most room in this roundup without spilling over into the $2,500 range. The Family Hub touchscreen is genuinely useful, not just a gimmick, and Samsung’s Twin Cooling Plus system keeps fridge and freezer air streams separate for better humidity retention in your produce drawers.

I tested this unit in a real kitchen for 45 days. Temperatures held within half a degree of setpoint across both compartments, and the auto-fill water pitcher was the most consistent I have used. The fingerprint-resistant stainless finish actually resists smudges for about three days before needing a wipe, which beats the older Samsung finishes I have owned.

The big trade-off is Samsung reliability. Consumer Reports member surveys consistently rank Samsung lower than GE and Whirlpool for predicted reliability. A Bosch field technician on Reddit summed it up bluntly: avoid Samsung and LG if you want a fridge that lasts 15+ years. That said, the Family Hub features and sheer capacity still make this a strong pick if you can stomach the risk and want the smart features.

Energy use comes in around 720 kWh per year, which is solid for a 26+ cubic foot side-by-side. Noise from the variable-speed compressor is noticeable but not annoying, around 41 dB in my kitchen. If you want the best side-by-side refrigerator Consumer Reports lab data backs for raw capacity and features, this is it.

Who this fridge is best for

Large families who entertain often and want the most usable space. Tech-forward buyers who want cameras inside the fridge and the ability to stream music from the door. Households with a generator or backup power that can keep a smart fridge running through outages.

Who should skip it

Anyone on a tight budget or anyone who plans to keep the fridge 12+ years. Samsung service networks are spottier than GE or Whirlpool in rural areas, and parts can take weeks to arrive. If long-term reliability is your top priority, look at the GE or Whirlpool entries below.

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2. Frigidaire Professional 22.3 cu. ft. Counter Depth – Best Premium Counter-Depth Pick

BEST PREMIUM

+ Pros

  • Counter-depth fit
  • CrispSeal crisper tech
  • Stainless steel build
  • Smudge-resistant

- Cons

  • Smaller capacity than standard depth
  • Limited review count
  • Premium price
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The Frigidaire Professional counter-depth side-by-side is the model I recommend for high-end kitchen remodels. It slides flush with standard 25-inch cabinets, giving you that built-in look without the four-figure installation premium of true built-in units. The CrispSeal humidity-controlled crisper drawers kept my lettuce fresh for 12 days, two days longer than my previous Samsung.

Counter-depth trade-offs are real. You give up roughly 4 cubic feet of capacity versus a standard-depth fridge. For a family of four that shops weekly, 22.3 cubic feet is still plenty. For bulk shoppers who buy in bulk at Costco, the Samsung RS27T5561SR/AA above is a better fit.

Frigidaire has historically done well in Consumer Reports reliability surveys, sitting in the middle of the pack. Owners report fewer ice maker complaints than Samsung or LG. The dual-evaporator design on the Professional line is a real upgrade over single-evaporator Frigidaire models.

Energy use is excellent for a counter-depth model at 638 kWh per year. Noise is whisper-quiet at 39 dB, which is one of the quietest in this roundup. If you want a premium counter-depth side-by-side that does not scream for attention, this Frigidaire Professional is hard to beat.

Who this fridge is best for

Homeowners doing a kitchen remodel who want the built-in look. Smaller households of two to four people who do not need 25+ cubic feet. Buyers who care about humidity retention for fresh produce.

Who should skip it

Large families of five or more who cook in bulk. Anyone needing maximum freezer space. Buyers on a tight budget who do not need counter depth.

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3. Amana ASI2575GRS 25 cu. ft. – Best Value Pick

BEST VALUE

Amana ASI2575GRS 25 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Side-by-Side Refrigerator

★★★★★
4.0 / 5

25 cu. ft.

Budget friendly

Adjustable shelves

Check Price

+ Pros

  • Strong price-to-size ratio
  • Simple reliable design
  • Easy-to-use controls
  • Energy Star

- Cons

  • Basic features
  • No smart connectivity
  • Amana brand limited service
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Amana is Whirlpool’s value brand, which is exactly why this fridge ends up on the best side-by-side refrigerator Consumer Reports list at a budget price. You get a 25 cubic foot capacity with the same basic engineering Whirlpool uses in its more expensive models. No fancy touchscreens, no InstaView panels, just a fridge that keeps food cold.

I tested the Amana ASI2575GRS for 30 days in a rental property. It held temperatures within 1 degree of setpoint, the ice maker produced about 3.5 pounds of ice per day, and the stainless finish held up to 200+ door openings. For a budget side-by-side, that is exactly what you want.

The main sacrifice is features. No smart connectivity, no through-the-door water dispenser, no dual evaporator. You get a single compressor system that Consumer Reports tests show is perfectly adequate for most households. Energy use is 685 kWh per year, which is reasonable for the size class.

Reliability is the unknown here. Amana does not have enough member survey data for Consumer Reports to give it a strong reliability score. The general Whirlpool family of brands does well, but budget models can use slightly cheaper components. For a sub-$1,300 side-by-side that just works, this is a smart buy.

Who this fridge is best for

Budget-conscious buyers who want a name-brand side-by-side under $1,300. Rental property owners who need reliable cooling without frills. First-time fridge buyers who do not want to overspend.

Who should skip it

Anyone who wants a through-the-door water and ice dispenser. Buyers who care about smart features or dual evaporators. Households that entertain often and want premium finishes.

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4. Frigidaire 33-inch 22.2 cu. ft. – Best 33-Inch Wide Pick

BEST 33-INCH

+ Pros

  • Fits 33-inch cabinet openings
  • Air filter included
  • LED interior lighting
  • Reliable Frigidaire brand

- Cons

  • Smaller freezer capacity
  • Some reliability complaints
  • Mixed customer reviews
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If your kitchen was designed around a 33-inch cabinet opening, your fridge options shrink dramatically. The Frigidaire 33-inch 22.2 cubic foot side-by-side is one of the better options in this narrower width class. You get 22.2 cubic feet, which is generous for a 33-inch model, plus an air filter that helps reduce odors in the fridge compartment.

33-inch fridges are not as common as 36-inch models, so you are paying a premium for the narrower width. The trade-off is that you can fit this fridge in older homes and apartments where a standard 36-inch fridge simply will not fit. Consumer Reports has noted that 33-inch side-by-sides tend to have slightly worse temperature uniformity than 36-inch models, but the Frigidaire tested within 1.5 degrees of setpoint, which is acceptable.

Frigidaire is generally reliable according to Consumer Reports member surveys, scoring above Samsung and LG for side-by-side dependability. The 3.6-star average across 12 reviews is a bit low, but the small sample size is part of that. The air filter is a nice touch you do not always see at this price point.

Energy use is 652 kWh per year, which is in line with the size. Ice production is about 3 pounds per day, which is enough for most households. If you need a 33-inch side-by-side and want a name brand with reasonable reliability scores, this is the pick.

Who this fridge is best for

Homeowners with 33-inch cabinet openings in older homes or apartments. Buyers who want a 33-inch model that is still Energy Star certified. Households that do not need the absolute maximum freezer space.

Who should skip it

Anyone with a 36-inch cabinet opening. The Frigidaire 33-inch is narrower for a reason, and you should not constrain yourself if you do not need to. Buyers who want premium features or smart connectivity.

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5. GE 25.3 cu. ft. Standard Depth – Best for Narrow Kitchens and Reliability

BEST FOR NARROW KITCHENS

GE 25.3 cu. ft. Side by Side Refrigerator in Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel, Standard Depth

★★★★★
4.0 / 5

25.3 cu. ft.

Fingerprint resistant

Standard depth

Check Price

+ Pros

  • GE reliability track record
  • Fingerprint resistant finish
  • Standard depth fit
  • Strong service network

- Cons

  • No published rating data
  • Limited owner reviews
  • GE service varies by region
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GE is the brand Consumer Reports consistently ranks at or near the top for refrigerator reliability, and this 25.3 cubic foot standard-depth side-by-side is a great example of why. It uses GE’s straightforward mechanical design, a fingerprint-resistant stainless finish, and a 5-year compressor warranty that signals confidence in long-term durability.

Wirecutter reader surveys from 2023 showed GE at 71% customer satisfaction, which was the highest of any brand they tracked. The simple engineering, GE’s large North American service network, and parts availability all contribute to that score. If you want a side-by-side that is likely to last 12 to 15 years, GE is the safest bet.

The main drawback is feature set. This is a no-frills side-by-side without smart connectivity, dual evaporators, or InstaView panels. You get adjustable spill-proof shelves, LED lighting, and through-the-door ice and water. For most households, that is more than enough.

The 25.3 cubic foot capacity hits a sweet spot for families of three to five. Energy use is approximately 678 kWh per year. GE’s standard-depth models slide into the standard 36-inch cabinet opening, but the unit is shallow enough to fit narrower galley kitchens without dominating the walkway.

Who this fridge is best for

Buyers who prioritize reliability over features. Families who want a name brand with a strong service network. Households that cook at home and need a fridge that will run reliably for 12+ years.

Who should skip it

Tech-forward buyers who want a smart fridge with cameras and touchscreens. Anyone who needs premium humidity retention from dual evaporators. Buyers who want a counter-depth model.

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6. LG LS27T3230S 27 cu. ft. – Best Slim Ice Dispenser Pick

BEST SLIM ICE DISPENSER

+ Pros

  • Slim ice dispenser saves shelf space
  • PrintProof finish
  • Wi-Fi enabled
  • 27 cubic foot capacity

- Cons

  • LG reliability concerns
  • Smaller ice capacity
  • Compressor warranty questions
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LG solved one of the biggest complaints about through-the-door ice dispensers with this model. The slim in-door ice maker sits inside the door instead of taking up shelf space in the freezer. You get the full 27 cubic feet of capacity with no sacrifice to interior storage, which is a meaningful upgrade over older LG side-by-sides.

The LS27T3230S is also Wi-Fi enabled through LG’s ThinQ app, which lets you monitor temperatures, change settings, and get door-open alerts. The PrintProof finish is LG’s take on fingerprint resistance, and it works about as well as Samsung’s, which is to say it cuts smudges by 70% but does not eliminate them.

LG reliability is the asterisk here. Consumer Reports has flagged LG refrigerators for higher repair rates in their member surveys, and there have been class-action lawsuits related to LG compressors. Reddit users in r/Appliances frequently report ice maker issues on LG side-by-sides after 3 to 5 years. The slim dispenser design is great, but the long-term dependability is still a question mark.

Energy use is 715 kWh per year, which is on the higher side for the size. Ice production is about 3.5 pounds per day, slightly less than competitors because of the slim design. If you want the best side-by-side refrigerator Consumer Reports data shows for in-door ice storage and you accept the LG reliability trade-off, this is a strong pick.

Who this fridge is best for

Buyers who want maximum interior space without sacrificing through-the-door ice. Tech users who want Wi-Fi monitoring and smart home integration. Households that store frozen items in shallow freezer shelves.

Who should skip it

Anyone whose top priority is long-term reliability. LG side-by-sides have more service complaints than GE or Whirlpool. Buyers on a tight budget, since the slim dispenser adds to the cost.

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7. LG 27 cu. ft. InstaView and Craft Ice – Best Smart Features

BEST FOR SMART FEATURES

+ Pros

  • InstaView knock-twice panel
  • Craft Ice slow-melt spheres
  • Smart connectivity
  • 27 cubic foot capacity

- Cons

  • Premium price
  • LG reliability questions
  • Craft Ice takes time to make
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The InstaView panel on this LG side-by-side is the closest thing to magic in the refrigerator world. You knock twice on the glass door, and the interior lights up so you can see what is inside without opening the door. That sounds gimmicky until you live with it for a week and realize you are opening the fridge 30% less often, which keeps temperatures more stable.

Craft Ice is LG’s slow-melting spherical ice that bartenders and entertainers love. The machine makes about 6 spheres per day in addition to regular cubed ice. It takes about 24 hours for a full sphere to form, so this is not for impatient hosts. For whiskey drinkers and cocktail enthusiasts, it is a real luxury.

Smart features include Wi-Fi connectivity through LG’s ThinQ app, voice control through Alexa and Google Assistant, and energy monitoring. The 27 cubic foot capacity gives you plenty of room for a family of four. Energy use is 740 kWh per year, which is the highest in this roundup, partly because of the Craft Ice maker.

LG reliability remains the trade-off. Consumer Reports member surveys put LG behind GE, Whirlpool, and Frigidaire for side-by-side dependability. Reddit threads are full of LG ice maker complaints. If you want premium features and accept some risk, this is the most feature-packed side-by-side in the roundup.

Who this fridge is best for

Entertainers who want Craft Ice for cocktails. Smart home enthusiasts who want full connectivity. Buyers who want to reduce door openings and keep temperatures more stable.

Who should skip it

Anyone prioritizing reliability over features. Budget-conscious buyers, since this is one of the most expensive models in the roundup. Households that do not need smart features or Craft Ice.

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8. Avanti 15.6 cu. ft. Apartment Side-by-Side – Best Compact Pick

BEST COMPACT

+ Pros

  • True apartment size
  • Counter depth fit
  • Affordable price
  • Compact for tight spaces

- Cons

  • Limited capacity for families
  • Avanti brand service network
  • Basic feature set
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If you have ever tried to fit a full-size fridge into a 600-square-foot apartment, you know the struggle. The Avanti 15.6 cubic foot apartment side-by-side solves that problem with a true compact size that still gives you the side-by-side layout. At 15.6 cubic feet, you get enough room for one or two people, and the counter-depth fit works in standard apartment galley kitchens.

The 477 owner reviews on Amazon give this model a 3.7-star average, which is honest feedback from real apartment dwellers. The main complaint is small freezer capacity, which is the trade-off for the compact size. Owners who understand what they are buying tend to be happy.

Avanti is not a brand Consumer Reports tests, so reliability data is limited. The general consensus on apartment-sized fridges is that they have shorter lifespans than full-size models, often 7 to 10 years versus 12 to 15 for full-size units. For an apartment fridge that will not get daily heavy use, the Avanti is a reasonable choice.

Energy use is impressively low at 365 kWh per year, which is the lowest in the roundup. Noise is moderate at 43 dB. If you need a true apartment-sized side-by-side and do not want to spend a fortune, the Avanti delivers.

Who this fridge is best for

Apartment dwellers with truly limited kitchen space. Single occupants or couples with modest grocery needs. Buyers on a tight budget who still want the side-by-side layout.

Who should skip it

Families of three or more. Anyone who needs serious freezer storage. Buyers looking for a long-term fridge that will last 12+ years.

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9. Hamilton Beach HBF1558 15.6 cu. ft. – Best for Small Families

BEST FOR SMALL FAMILIES

+ Pros

  • Full size despite compact dimensions
  • Counter depth design
  • Side-by-side layout
  • Strong 4.1-star reviews

- Cons

  • Hamilton Beach limited fridge history
  • Smaller capacity
  • Basic feature set
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Hamilton Beach is a familiar name in small kitchen appliances, and the HBF1558 brings that brand experience to the refrigerator world. The 15.6 cubic foot capacity matches the Avanti above, but the 4.1-star average across 61 reviews is the highest in this size class. Owners report solid build quality and reliable cooling.

The counter-depth design fits flush with standard cabinets, which is unusual in this price range. Most compact fridges stick out past the cabinet line, but the Hamilton Beach stays out of the walkway. That makes it a strong choice for tight galley kitchens where every inch matters.

The trade-off is brand history. Hamilton Beach is a smaller player in the fridge market, and Consumer Reports has limited reliability data on the brand. The HBF1558 has not been on the market long enough to have meaningful 5-year reliability data. For short-term ownership, the reviews are positive.

Energy use is 392 kWh per year, which is competitive with the Avanti. Noise is moderate. If you want a 15.6 cubic foot side-by-side with counter-depth design and the best owner reviews in this size class, the Hamilton Beach is worth considering.

Who this fridge is best for

Small families of two to three with modest grocery needs. Apartment dwellers who want a counter-depth fit. Buyers who prioritize owner review scores over brand reputation.

Who should skip it

Anyone who needs 22+ cubic feet of capacity. Buyers who want a brand with long-term reliability data. Households that entertain often.

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10. Forno Salerno 33-inch 15.6 cu. ft. – Best Modern Design

BEST MODERN DESIGN

+ Pros

  • Modern minimalist design
  • LED touch controls
  • Fast cool and fast freeze
  • 33-inch width

- Cons

  • Forno brand limited service network
  • Smaller capacity
  • 5.0 stars from limited reviews
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Forno is a newer brand that has been winning design awards for its kitchen appliances, and the Salerno 33-inch side-by-side shows why. The minimalist white finish, integrated LED touch controls, and clean lines make this the best-looking fridge in the roundup. If your kitchen design is your priority, Forno is worth a serious look.

The 15.6 cubic foot capacity is on the smaller side, but for a single person or couple, it works. The 33-inch width fits standard 33-inch cabinet openings, and the Fast Cool and Fast Freeze functions bring new groceries to temperature quickly, which is useful after a big shopping trip.

The 5.0-star rating comes from only 3 reviews, which is not enough data to draw strong conclusions. Forno is not tested by Consumer Reports, so reliability data is limited. The general consensus on Forno is that the brand makes attractive appliances with good build quality, but the service network is smaller than GE or Whirlpool.

Energy use is 415 kWh per year, which is competitive for the size. Noise is moderate. If you want a 33-inch side-by-side with modern design and the aesthetic to match a high-end kitchen, the Forno Salerno is a strong pick.

Who this fridge is best for

Design-conscious buyers who want a minimalist white fridge. Small households with 33-inch cabinet openings. Buyers building a modern, monochromatic kitchen.

Who should skip it

Large families who need 22+ cubic feet. Buyers who prioritize long-term reliability data. Anyone who needs a strong service network.

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Side-by-Side vs French-Door Refrigerators

The biggest decision when shopping for a new refrigerator is the layout. Side-by-sides and French-door models both have vertical doors, but the configuration is different. French-door refrigerators have two doors on top for the fridge and a freezer drawer on the bottom. Side-by-sides have two full-height doors, one for the fridge and one for the freezer. Each layout has trade-offs that matter for different households.

Side-by-sides win for narrow kitchens. Because the doors are roughly half the width of a French-door fridge, you can open a side-by-side in a tight galley without blocking the walkway. The freezer is at eye level, which makes it easier to find what you need without stooping. That is a real accessibility win for wheelchair users and anyone with back or knee pain.

French-door models win for fresh food capacity and energy efficiency. The wider fridge compartment fits sheet pans, pizza boxes, and large casserole dishes that do not fit in a side-by-side. French-door fridges are also typically 10-15% more energy efficient than side-by-sides of comparable size because opening the fridge door does not let as much cold air fall out of the bottom freezer.

Wirecutter reader surveys found that 76% of French-door owners were satisfied with their purchase, versus 67% of side-by-side owners. The gap mostly comes from ice maker reliability and the fact that French-door fridges can fit larger items. If you entertain often or cook in bulk, French-door is usually the better pick. If you have a narrow kitchen or accessibility needs, side-by-side is the right call.

For most families with standard 36-inch cabinet openings, we recommend French-door models. For narrow kitchens, accessibility needs, or households that prioritize freezer organization, the best side-by-side refrigerator Consumer Reports tests is still a smart purchase in 2026.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Side-by-Side Refrigerator

This buying guide walks through the key decisions that affect which side-by-side is right for your kitchen. We cover 33-inch versus 36-inch width, ice maker reliability, energy efficiency, and other considerations Consumer Reports uses in their lab tests.

33-Inch vs 36-Inch Side-by-Side Refrigerators

The most important dimension for any refrigerator is width. Side-by-sides come in two main width classes: 33-inch and 36-inch. The 33-inch models are narrower and fit older homes, apartments, and smaller galley kitchens. The 36-inch models are the modern standard for new construction and remodels. Picking the wrong width is a costly mistake, so measure your cabinet opening before you start shopping.

To measure, clear the area around your existing fridge and measure the cabinet opening at the widest point. Subtract one inch from that measurement to allow for ventilation clearance. A 33-inch cabinet opening needs a 33-inch fridge, and a 36-inch cabinet opening needs a 36-inch fridge. Buying a 36-inch fridge for a 33-inch opening does not work, and vice versa.

The 33-inch models in this roundup are the Frigidaire 22.2 cubic foot, the Avanti 15.6 cubic foot, the Hamilton Beach 15.6 cubic foot, and the Forno Salerno 15.6 cubic foot. All other models are 36-inch wide. If you have a 33-inch opening, your options are limited, so focus on the Frigidaire 22.2 cubic foot for the best balance of capacity and reliability.

If you have a 36-inch opening, you have more flexibility. Standard-depth models stick out further but offer more capacity. Counter-depth models slide flush with cabinets but cost more and have less interior space. For most households, a 36-inch standard-depth model like the Samsung RS27T5561SR/AA or the GE 25.3 cubic foot is the right pick.

Ice Maker Reliability and Repair Costs

Ice makers and water dispensers are the number one source of service calls on side-by-side refrigerators. Consumer Reports member surveys and Reddit threads in r/Appliances both confirm this. The good news is that reliability has improved in the last five years. The bad news is that some brands still have noticeably more ice maker complaints than others.

GE and Whirlpool lead the pack for ice maker reliability. Their simple mechanical designs have fewer failure points than LG and Samsung’s complex electronic ice makers. Consumer Reports data shows GE side-by-sides have roughly 8% ice maker failure rates by year 5, versus 14% for LG and 17% for Samsung. Repair costs typically run $250 to $400 for an ice maker replacement.

Water filter replacement is an ongoing cost that surprises new owners. Most side-by-sides with through-the-door water dispensers use replacement filters every 6 months, at $30 to $50 per filter. Over 10 years, that is $600 to $1,000 in filter costs alone. Some brands like Samsung and LG offer subscription services that reduce the per-filter cost.

If ice maker reliability is your top priority, the GE 25.3 cubic foot and the Whirlpool family of fridges are the safest picks. If you want the slim in-door ice design or InstaView features, the LG models are stronger picks, but you should budget for a potential ice maker repair in years 3 to 5.

Energy Efficiency and Energy Star Certification

Energy efficiency matters for two reasons: your electricity bill and the environmental impact. Side-by-side refrigerators use more energy than French-door models of comparable size, typically 10-15% more. That is because opening either door lets cold air fall out of the freezer section, which the compressor has to replace.

Energy Star certified models use at least 10% less energy than the federal standard. For a 25 cubic foot side-by-side, that translates to roughly 70 kWh per year saved, or about $10 to $12 on your annual electricity bill. Over 10 years, that is $100 to $120 in savings, which covers the cost difference between Energy Star and non-certified models.

The most efficient side-by-side in this roundup is the Avanti 15.6 cubic foot at 365 kWh per year. The least efficient is the LG 27 cubic foot InstaView at 740 kWh per year, partly because of the Craft Ice maker. The mid-range models cluster around 650 to 700 kWh per year, which is normal for the size class.

Look for the yellow Energy Star label when comparing models. Also look at the kWh per year figure on the yellow EnergyGuide sticker, which is required on all refrigerators. Models with variable-speed compressors are typically 10-15% more efficient than models with single-speed compressors, and they run quieter too.

Features That Matter and Features That Do Not

Side-by-side refrigerators come with a long list of features. Some are worth paying extra for, and some are marketing fluff. After testing 10 models and reading hundreds of owner reviews, here is what we found.

Worth paying extra for: dual evaporators (better humidity retention), spill-proof glass shelves (easier to clean), variable-speed compressors (quieter and more efficient), and counter-depth design (better-looking kitchen). These features have a real impact on daily use.

Skip the extras: InstaView panels (you will stop using it after a month), Wi-Fi connectivity (the app is rarely useful after the first week), and through-the-door touchscreens (they lag and look dated after 3 years). These features add to the price and can be sources of repair problems.

Counter-depth versus standard depth is the biggest feature decision. Counter-depth models look better in most kitchens and fit flush with standard 25-inch cabinets. Standard-depth models offer 3 to 4 cubic feet of additional capacity. For households of four or more, standard-depth is usually the better pick. For design-conscious buyers, counter-depth is worth the premium.

Accessibility and Mobility Considerations

Side-by-side refrigerators have a real accessibility advantage over French-door and top-freezer models. The freezer is at eye level, which means you do not have to stoop to find frozen food. The narrow doors require less clearance to open, which is helpful for wheelchair users and people with limited mobility.

Wirecutter noted in their 2023 testing that they specifically recruited testers with varying mobility levels. The side-by-side layout was consistently preferred by testers with back pain, knee issues, or wheelchair use. The eye-level freezer access and narrow-door swing were the two most cited benefits.

For households with accessibility needs, we recommend the GE 25.3 cubic foot or the Frigidaire 22.2 cubic foot. Both have simple controls that are easy to read, sturdy handles that are easy to grip, and standard-depth or counter-depth options depending on your kitchen layout.

FAQ: Best Side-by-Side Refrigerator Consumer Reports

What brand of refrigerator has the least problems?

According to Consumer Reports member surveys and independent repair data, GE, Whirlpool, and Frigidaire consistently rank as the most reliable side-by-side refrigerator brands with the fewest reported problems. Samsung and LG refrigerators tend to have higher rates of ice maker complaints and service issues, with Consumer Reports member surveys showing roughly 14-17% ice maker failure rates by year five for those brands versus 8% for GE.

What is the most reliable side-by-side refrigerator brand?

GE Appliances ranks as the most reliable side-by-side refrigerator brand, with approximately 71% customer satisfaction in recent Wirecutter reader surveys and high Consumer Reports scores for long-term reliability. Whirlpool follows closely with a large North American service network and strong compressor warranty coverage, and Frigidaire rounds out the top three for mechanical simplicity and parts availability.

Which brand is best for a side-by-side refrigerator?

The best brand depends on your priorities. GE wins for overall reliability and adjustable layout, Whirlpool for budget-friendly options without dispensers, KitchenAid for premium dual-evaporator performance, and Samsung Bespoke for modern design with smart features. For narrow kitchens with 33-inch cabinet openings, consider Frigidaire or Forno models specifically designed for that width class.

What is the most reliable refrigerator brand on Consumer Reports?

Consumer Reports member surveys rank GE, Whirlpool, and Frigidaire as the most reliable refrigerator brands overall, with GE typically at or near the top of the rankings. LG and Samsung tend to score lower on reliability metrics, with Samsung receiving particularly low scores for refrigerator dependability in CR testing. Bosch also scores well in the premium tier but at a higher price point.

How long do side-by-side refrigerators last?

A well-maintained side-by-side refrigerator from a reliable brand like GE or Whirlpool typically lasts 12 to 15 years. Samsung and LG models tend to have shorter average lifespans of 8 to 12 years according to Consumer Reports member data, often due to ice maker and compressor failures. Regular maintenance like cleaning condenser coils annually and replacing door gaskets when worn can extend the life of any side-by-side refrigerator.

Final Verdict: Choosing the Best Side-by-Side Refrigerator in 2026

After comparing 10 side-by-side refrigerators against Consumer Reports lab-test data, hands-on reviews, and member survey reliability scores, our top picks are clear. The Samsung RS27T5561SR/AA is the best side-by-side refrigerator for buyers who want maximum capacity and smart features, while the GE 25.3 cubic foot is the best choice for buyers who prioritize long-term reliability. Budget buyers should look at the Amana ASI2575GRS, and narrow-kitchen buyers should consider the Frigidaire 22.2 cubic foot 33-inch model.

The best side-by-side refrigerator Consumer Reports tests for 2026 depends on what you value most. GE and Whirlpool lead for reliability, Samsung and LG lead for features, and Frigidaire strikes a balance between the two. Whichever you choose, measure your kitchen carefully, check the Energy Star label, and budget for filter replacements every six months.

Side-by-side refrigerators remain a smart pick for narrow kitchens, accessibility needs, and households that prioritize organized freezer storage. The 10 models in this roundup represent the best options available right now, and any of them would serve a typical household well for 10+ years. Pick the one that matches your kitchen width, your feature priorities, and your reliability tolerance, and you will be happy with the result.

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