Imagine opening your refrigerator and finding everything perfectly organized, from your favorite snacks to fresh produce. Does your current fridge make that easy, or is it a jumbled mess where things get lost? Choosing a new refrigerator can feel overwhelming. There are so many brands and models, and knowing which one is the best for your family can be a real puzzle. You want something that keeps your food fresh, looks good in your kitchen, and doesn’t cost too much to run, but where do you even start?
That’s where we come in. We understand the frustration of sifting through endless reviews and confusing specifications. This post is designed to cut through the noise and help you find a Rated Side By Side Refrigerator that truly fits your needs. We’ll break down what makes a refrigerator “rated” and what those ratings actually mean for you and your groceries.
By the time you finish reading, you’ll have a clear picture of what to look for. We’ll cover the important features, energy efficiency tips, and how to compare different models so you can confidently pick the perfect fridge. Let’s dive in and find the best Rated Side By Side Refrigerator for your home!
Our Top 5 Rated Side By Side Refrigerator Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Rated Side By Side Refrigerator Detailed Reviews
1. Kenmore 36″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Freezer – Accela Chill
Rating: 8.8/10
The Kenmore 36″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Freezer is a smart choice for any kitchen. It offers a great balance of style and function, making it easy to store and access your food and drinks.
What We Like:
- This refrigerator is counter-depth, so it fits nicely without sticking out too far. It still gives you 20 cubic feet of space, which is plenty for families.
- The Accela Chill feature cools your groceries fast. The Multi-Flow Air System keeps the temperature even everywhere, so food stays fresh longer.
- You get instant access to clean, filtered water and ice. The dispenser offers both cubed and crushed ice, which is super convenient.
- The adjustable glass shelves are spill-proof and look sleek. You can move them around to fit big items like platters and jugs.
- It’s ENERGY STAR Certified, meaning it saves energy and helps lower your electricity bill. The bright LED lights make it easy to see everything inside.
- The fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish looks great and is easy to clean.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has a good capacity, very large families or those who host big parties might find 20 cu. ft. a bit tight for all their groceries.
- The ice maker, while convenient, can sometimes be a bit noisy when it’s making ice.
This Kenmore refrigerator is a solid performer that brings convenience and modern style to your kitchen. It’s a great option for keeping your food fresh and your drinks cool.
2. Avanti RMS551SS Mini Fridge Compact Side Refrigerator with Freezer for Home Office or Dorm
Rating: 9.5/10
The Avanti RMS551SS Mini Fridge is a super handy appliance. It’s a compact side-by-side refrigerator and freezer that’s just right for small places. You can put it in your office, dorm room, bedroom, or even a home bar. It gives you space for both fresh food and frozen treats. Plus, it looks really good with its stainless steel finish.
What We Like:
- Spacious 5.5 cu. ft. Side-by-Side Design: You get a separate fridge and freezer, which is awesome for organizing. It’s perfect for any small space.
- Dual Freezer Shelves: The freezer has two shelves. This makes it easy to store all your frozen veggies, ice cream, and other frozen goodies.
- Energy-Efficient Cooling: It keeps your food and drinks nice and cold. The adjustable temperature control lets you set it just right. It also has a partial automatic defrost, which helps a lot.
- Sleek Stainless-Steel Design: This fridge looks modern and stylish. The dual doors and the stainless steel look great in any room.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the side-by-side design is great for organization, the individual compartments might feel a bit smaller than a traditional fridge.
- The “compact” nature means it’s not meant for storing large amounts of groceries, so plan your shopping trips accordingly.
This Avanti mini fridge is a smart pick for anyone needing extra cool storage. It’s practical, looks good, and keeps your items fresh.
3. Hamilton Beach HBF2064 20.6 cu ft Counter Depth Full Size Refrigerator
Rating: 8.6/10
The Hamilton Beach HBF2064 20.6 cu ft Counter Depth Full Size Refrigerator is a great choice for any kitchen. Its sleek stainless steel finish looks good in any home. This fridge offers a lot of space for your food. It also has handy features that make using it a breeze. You can store a lot of groceries for your whole family. This refrigerator is designed to make your life easier.
What We Like:
- LARGE CAPACITY: It boasts a 20.6 cu. ft. capacity, which is perfect for big families.
- SIDE-BY-SIDE DOOR DESIGN: This lets you easily see and grab your fresh and frozen items.
- DIGITAL DISPLAY: You can easily change temperature settings with the digital control panel.
- OVERSIZE DOOR BINS: The gallon-size bins hold lots of drinks and condiments.
- INTERIOR LIGHTING: Bright LED lights help you see everything inside.
- COUNTER DEPTH: It fits nicely against your cabinets, so it doesn’t stick out too far.
- DELIVERY OPTIONS: Professional delivery and setup are available in some areas.
What Could Be Improved:
- The digital display is located inside the refrigerator, which might require opening the door to adjust settings.
- Availability of delivery and haul-away services can vary by location.
This Hamilton Beach refrigerator offers a smart way to keep your food fresh and organized. It’s a solid appliance that works well for busy households.
4. Frostronics 24 Inch 168 Cans Outdoor Beverage Refrigerator
Rating: 9.4/10
The Frostronics 24-inch Outdoor Beverage Refrigerator is a spacious and versatile cooler designed to keep your drinks perfectly chilled year-round. It boasts a sleek look and can hold up to 168 cans, making it ideal for parties or simply enjoying a cold drink on your patio. This fridge is built tough for outdoor use and offers impressive cooling capabilities.
What We Like:
- It holds a lot of drinks, up to 168 cans!
- It can get really cold, down to 26°F, which is colder than many fridges.
- You don’t have to bring it inside during winter because of its special “Winter Mode.”
- It’s made of strong stainless steel and is built to last outside.
- It has a lock to keep your drinks safe.
- The door can be switched to open from either side, which is handy.
- It comes with great customer support and a good warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- The instruction manual could be clearer.
- The control panel might be a little tricky for some users to figure out at first.
This Frostronics refrigerator is a fantastic addition for anyone who loves to entertain outdoors. It offers reliable cooling and durable construction, ensuring your beverages are always ready for enjoyment.
5. Frigidaire EFR840-Cream EFR840 Retro Mini Fridge with Freezer & Side Bottle Opener-Small 2 Door Refrigerator for Office Bar or College Dorm Room-3.1 Cu Ft (Cream)
Rating: 8.6/10
Bring a touch of vintage style and cool convenience to any small space with the Frigidaire EFR840-Cream EFR840 Retro Mini Fridge. This charming 3.1 cu. ft. refrigerator boasts a delightful cream finish and a built-in side bottle opener, making it as functional as it is fashionable. It’s the perfect addition to your office, dorm room, or home bar, offering a compact solution for keeping your favorite drinks and snacks chilled.
What We Like:
- The retro design really stands out and adds a cool vibe to any room.
- It has a good amount of space for its size, with 3.2 cu. ft. capacity to hold plenty of drinks and snacks.
- Storage is well organized with glass shelves, a can dispenser, a big door basket for bottles, and a crisper for fruits and veggies.
- The freezer compartment is handy for keeping ice cream or frozen snacks.
- It’s easy to open with two handles, and the reversible door gives you flexibility in where you place it.
- The platinum finish with chrome trim looks really sharp and adds a touch of class.
- The built-in bottle opener is a neat and useful feature.
What Could Be Improved:
- The freezer compartment is quite small, so it’s best for just a few frozen items.
- Some users have mentioned that the noise level can be noticeable at times.
This Frigidaire mini fridge is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a stylish and practical way to keep their essentials cold. Its retro charm and smart features make it a standout appliance for smaller living or working areas.
Choosing Your Perfect Side-By-Side Refrigerator: A Buyer’s Guide
Why a Side-By-Side Refrigerator?
Side-by-side refrigerators are a popular choice for many kitchens. They have two vertical doors. The freezer is on one side, and the refrigerator is on the other. This design makes it easy to see and grab items from both sections. They are great for families and people who need quick access to frozen and fresh foods.
Key Features to Look For
1. Capacity and Size
Measure your kitchen space carefully. You need to know the width, height, and depth. Refrigerators come in different sizes. A larger family might need a bigger capacity. A smaller apartment might need a more compact model. Think about how much food you usually store.
2. Energy Efficiency (Energy Star Rating)
Look for the Energy Star label. This means the refrigerator uses less electricity. It saves you money on your energy bills. It’s also better for the environment. Energy-efficient models are a smart investment.
3. Water and Ice Dispenser
Many side-by-side models have dispensers on the door. You can get cold water and ice without opening the refrigerator. Some offer crushed ice too. This is a convenient feature. Make sure the dispenser is easy to use.
4. Adjustable Shelving and Storage
Good storage helps you organize your food. Look for shelves you can move. This lets you fit tall items. Special drawers can keep produce fresh longer. Door bins are useful for bottles and condiments.
5. Smart Technology
Some refrigerators have smart features. You can connect them to your phone. This lets you control the temperature remotely. Some can even tell you when you need to change the water filter. These features add convenience.
Important Materials
The exterior of refrigerators is usually made of stainless steel or plastic. Stainless steel looks sleek and modern. It’s also durable. Some stainless steel finishes resist fingerprints. Plastic exteriors are often less expensive. They come in various colors to match your kitchen.
Inside, shelves are often made of tempered glass. This glass is strong and easy to clean. Crisper drawers are usually made of clear plastic. This lets you see the food inside.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality Boosters:
- Brand Reputation: Well-known brands often make reliable refrigerators.
- Build Quality: Check for sturdy construction. Doors should open and close smoothly.
- Noise Level: Quieter models are more pleasant to have in your home.
- Temperature Control: Consistent temperatures keep food fresh.
Quality Reducers:
- Cheap Materials: Thin plastic or flimsy shelves can break easily.
- Poor Insulation: This makes the refrigerator work harder and use more energy.
- Noisy Operation: A loud refrigerator can be annoying.
- Complex Features: Sometimes, too many complicated features can break.
User Experience and Use Cases
For Families:
Side-by-side refrigerators are fantastic for busy families. Kids can easily reach snacks from the refrigerator section. Parents can quickly grab frozen vegetables for dinner. The ice dispenser is a big hit on hot days.
For Small Spaces:
Even in smaller kitchens, a side-by-side can work. Choose a narrower model. The vertical design uses space efficiently. It’s better than a top-freezer model if you use the freezer a lot.
For Organization Lovers:
With adjustable shelves and good drawer systems, you can keep everything tidy. It’s easy to see what you have. This helps reduce food waste.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How much space do I need for a side-by-side refrigerator?
A: You need to measure the width, height, and depth of your kitchen opening. Also, leave some space around the refrigerator for ventilation. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Q: Are side-by-side refrigerators energy efficient?
A: Many are, especially those with an Energy Star rating. Look for this label when you shop.
Q: How do I clean the ice dispenser?
A: Most ice dispensers have a removable filter. You can usually wipe down the dispenser area with a damp cloth. Always unplug the refrigerator before cleaning.
Q: What is the average lifespan of a side-by-side refrigerator?
A: With good care, a side-by-side refrigerator can last 10 to 20 years.
Q: Are stainless steel refrigerators hard to keep clean?
A: Some stainless steel finishes are fingerprint-resistant, which makes them easier to clean.
Q: Can I install a side-by-side refrigerator myself?
A: It’s best to have a professional install it, especially if it has a water dispenser. This ensures it’s connected properly and safely.
Q: What does “total capacity” mean?
A: Total capacity is the total cubic feet of space inside both the refrigerator and freezer sections combined.
Q: How often should I replace the water filter?
A: This depends on the model and your water usage. Most manufacturers recommend every 6 months.
Q: What if the ice maker stops working?
A: Check if the ice maker is turned on. Make sure the water line is connected and the water is on. If problems continue, you might need a repair.
Q: Are side-by-side refrigerators more expensive than other types?
A: They can be, especially models with extra features. However, prices vary greatly by brand and size.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Scott Fischer, the voice behind SliceItRight. My passion for food started in my grandmother’s kitchen, where I learned the art of slicing, dicing, and creating delicious meals. Over the years, I’ve explored everything from the perfect kitchen gadgets to mastering culinary techniques, and I’m here to share all of it with you. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home chef, my goal is to make cooking easier, more enjoyable, and a lot more fun. So, let’s slice it right and cook up something amazing together!