Finding the best deal on side by side refrigerator models is not simply about choosing the lowest price. A good deal should give you enough storage space, dependable cooling, practical organisation, and features that match your household’s needs.
Side-by-side refrigerators divide the appliance vertically. Fresh food stays on one side, while frozen food stays on the other. This design lets you access both sections without bending down, while the narrower doors can work well in kitchens with limited door clearance.
We compared Amazon-listed refrigerators based on capacity, dimensions, storage layout, dispenser features, counter-depth design, temperature controls, and overall value. This guide is based on published product specifications and listing information rather than hands-on laboratory testing.
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Quick Comparison of the Best Side-by-Side Refrigerator Deals
| Product | Best For | Capacity | Notable Feature | Amazon Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kenmore 36-Inch Side-by-Side Refrigerator | Best overall | 20 cu. ft. | Water and ice dispenser | Check Price |
| Hamilton Beach HBF2064 Refrigerator | Best large-capacity value | 20.6 cu. ft. | Digital temperature controls | Check Price |
| Hamilton Beach HBF1558 Refrigerator | Best for smaller kitchens | 15.6 cu. ft. | Approximately 33 inches wide | Check Price |
| Forno Salerno 36-Inch Black Refrigerator | Best black finish | 20 cu. ft. | Ice maker and touch controls | Check Price |
| Forno Salerno 36-Inch Stainless Refrigerator | Best premium design | 20 cu. ft. | Built-in ice maker | Check Price |
| Forno Salerno 33-Inch Refrigerator | Best narrow-width option | 15.6 cu. ft. | Fast-cool and fast-freeze modes | Check Price |
Best Side-by-Side Refrigerators Available on Amazon
1. Kenmore 36-Inch Counter-Depth Side-by-Side Refrigerator — Best Overall
Credit: Amazon
The Kenmore 36-inch model is our best overall choice because it combines a practical counter-depth body with 20 cubic feet of storage, adjustable glass shelves, an external water and ice dispenser, Accela Chill, and an inverter compressor.
Its listed dimensions are approximately 36 inches wide, 30.24 inches deep, and 70.21 inches high. The shallower cabinet can create a more integrated appearance without requiring a fully built-in refrigerator. (Amazon)
Pros
- Counter-depth design reduces how far the appliance extends past the cabinets.
- External water and ice dispenser adds everyday convenience.
- Adjustable glass shelving makes the fresh-food compartment easier to organise.
- Accela Chill can help cool recently added groceries.
- ENERGY STAR certification may appeal to energy-conscious households.
- Fingerprint-resistant stainless finish is easier to keep presentable.
Cons
- The vertical freezer section may feel narrow for wide frozen-food boxes.
- The dispenser requires suitable water-line access.
- Twenty cubic feet may not be enough for very large households.
- Availability and final delivery cost can depend on the buyer’s postcode.
My Honest Opinion
This Kenmore is the strongest all-round option for shoppers who want modern features without moving into an oversized refrigerator. Its capacity, dispenser, counter-depth profile, and adjustable storage provide a useful balance between convenience and kitchen fit.
The main limitation is the relatively narrow freezer shelving common to side-by-side designs. Measure the packages and trays you regularly freeze before ordering.
2. Hamilton Beach HBF2064 20.6 Cu. Ft. Side-by-Side Refrigerator — Best Large-Capacity Value
Credit: Amazon
The Hamilton Beach HBF2064 offers 20.6 cubic feet of capacity in a freestanding, counter-depth-style cabinet. It includes separate side-by-side compartments, interior digital controls, gallon-size door bins, LED lighting, frost-free operation, and multiple shelves.
The listed dimensions are approximately 35.86 inches wide, 27.79 inches deep, and 70.08 inches high. Its depth of less than 30 inches can help it sit closer to standard kitchen counters than many conventional full-depth models.
Pros
- Largest stated capacity among the Hamilton Beach models in this guide.
- Counter-depth profile offers a streamlined kitchen appearance.
- Digital controls simplify refrigerator and freezer adjustments.
- Gallon-size door bins accommodate large drink containers.
- LED lighting improves interior visibility.
- Frost-free operation reduces manual maintenance.
- No external dispenser means more uninterrupted freezer-door storage.
Cons
- It does not provide an external ice or water dispenser.
- The refrigerator is nearly 36 inches wide and requires sufficient installation space.
- Buyers seeking smart controls or app connectivity may find the feature set basic.
- Large-appliance delivery options vary by location.
My Honest Opinion
The HBF2064 is a sensible choice for shoppers who prioritise storage capacity over dispensers and smart features. It gives families a straightforward layout with digital temperature controls and plenty of door storage.
Because there is no external dispenser, you avoid the need to connect a dispenser water line. That also leaves more usable space on the freezer door. However, buyers who use filtered water or ice several times a day may prefer the Kenmore or Forno alternatives.
3. Hamilton Beach HBF1558 15.6 Cu. Ft. Side-by-Side Refrigerator — Best for Smaller Kitchens
Credit: Amazon
The Hamilton Beach HBF1558 is a smaller side-by-side refrigerator designed for kitchens that cannot accommodate a standard 36-inch model. It provides 15.6 cubic feet of total capacity, digital temperature controls, gallon-size door bins, adjustable shelves, interior lighting, and frost-free operation.
Its listed dimensions are approximately 32.91 inches wide, 25.04 inches deep, and 70.08 inches high. That narrower width makes it a potentially useful option for flats, condominiums, secondary kitchens, and older homes with smaller appliance openings.
Pros
- Narrower than most full-size 36-inch side-by-side refrigerators.
- Shallow cabinet can produce a cleaner counter-depth appearance.
- Digital display provides simple temperature adjustment.
- Gallon-size door bins help preserve shelf space.
- Adjustable shelves accommodate different food containers.
- Frost-free system reduces ice build-up.
Cons
- Its 15.6-cubic-foot capacity is limited for large families.
- There is no external water or ice dispenser.
- Narrower shelves may not hold wide platters comfortably.
- Tall users may find the lower storage areas easier to access than shorter users.
My Honest Opinion
This is one of the most practical choices when width is the main restriction. It offers a true side-by-side layout without requiring the opening normally needed for a 36-inch appliance.
However, the smaller capacity requires more careful organisation. It is better suited to one-to-three-person households, frequent grocery shoppers, rental properties, or buyers who already have a separate freezer.
4. Forno Salerno 36-Inch Black Side-by-Side Refrigerator — Best Black Finish
Credit: Amazon
The black Forno Salerno provides 20 cubic feet of storage in a 36-inch side-by-side format. Its feature list includes frost-free cooling, an external water and ice dispenser, touch controls, a door alarm, adjustable storage, a child-lock mode, and vacation settings.
The refrigerator measures approximately 35.87 inches wide, 29.76 inches deep, and 70.08 inches high. Its dark finish makes it a strong visual match for black appliances, dark cabinets, and modern kitchens.
Pros
- Distinctive black finish gives the kitchen a modern appearance.
- External ice and water dispenser provides quick access.
- Door alarm can alert users when a door remains open.
- Child-lock setting helps prevent accidental control changes.
- Vacation mode is useful during extended periods away from home.
- Frost-free operation reduces routine maintenance.
- Counter-depth dimensions create a more integrated look.
Cons
- Dark finishes may show dust, streaks, and fingerprints.
- A dispenser water connection is required.
- The freezer compartment remains relatively narrow.
- The feature-rich design may cost more than basic Hamilton Beach models.
My Honest Opinion
Choose this Forno model when appearance matters almost as much as functionality. The black exterior, long handles, dispenser panel, and counter-depth cabinet can become a strong focal point in a modern kitchen.
It also provides more control features than a basic refrigerator. Still, buyers who do not need a dispenser or specialised modes may find better value in a simpler model.
5. Forno Salerno 36-Inch Stainless Steel Side-by-Side Refrigerator — Best Premium Design
Credit: Amazon
This stainless steel Forno Salerno combines a professional-looking exterior with a 20-cubic-foot side-by-side interior. The refrigerator section provides approximately 13.48 cubic feet, while the freezer offers approximately 6.53 cubic feet.
The listing describes three adjustable glass shelves, crisper storage, freezer drawers, door shelving, multi-airflow cooling, touch controls, a built-in ice maker, a water dispenser, a door alarm, vacation mode, child-lock controls, and Sabbath mode. Its dimensions are approximately 35.87 inches wide, 29.76 inches deep, and 70.08 inches high. (Amazon)
Pros
- Professional stainless steel styling with long handles.
- Built-in ice maker and water dispenser.
- Adjustable glass shelves improve storage flexibility.
- Separate drawers keep smaller frozen items organised.
- Door-open alarm provides a useful warning.
- Multiple operating modes suit different household situations.
- Counter-depth body can blend neatly with cabinetry.
Cons
- Premium features can increase the purchase price.
- The water and ice system requires installation access.
- Long handles need enough clearance from nearby walls or cabinets.
- Freezer storage is divided into narrow vertical areas.
My Honest Opinion
This model is best for shoppers seeking a refrigerator that looks more substantial and premium than a basic freestanding appliance. The stainless exterior and prominent handles give it a professional style, while the dispenser and electronic controls add convenience.
Before buying, carefully compare the delivered price, installation services, return conditions, and seller information. Large appliances can have different delivery terms from standard Amazon parcels.
6. Forno Salerno 33-Inch 15.6 Cu. Ft. Side-by-Side Refrigerator — Best Narrow-Width Premium Option
Credit: Amazon
The narrower Forno Salerno offers 15.6 cubic feet of capacity with adjustable glass shelves, crisper drawers, door baskets, a gallon-size bin, touch controls, fast-cool and fast-freeze settings, and a counter-depth built-in appearance.
It is designed for buyers who have less horizontal space but still want the appearance and organisation of a modern side-by-side refrigerator.
Pros
- Fits openings that may be too narrow for a 36-inch refrigerator.
- Counter-depth appearance works well in compact kitchens.
- Fast-cool mode is useful after loading fresh groceries.
- Fast-freeze mode can quickly lower the freezer temperature.
- Adjustable shelves and door bins support flexible organisation.
- Spill-resistant shelving can simplify cleaning.
- Modern stainless steel design suits contemporary kitchens.
Cons
- Smaller total capacity requires careful food organisation.
- Not ideal for households that buy groceries in large quantities.
- Narrow freezer shelves may limit storage for wide containers.
- Model names and stated widths should be confirmed on the selected Amazon variation before ordering.
My Honest Opinion
This Forno is a strong alternative to the Hamilton Beach HBF1558 for buyers who need a narrower appliance but want more advanced controls and premium styling.
The extra features may justify the price for design-conscious buyers. For a rental property or a simple secondary kitchen, however, the less complicated Hamilton Beach model may represent better value.
How to Find the Best Deal on a Side-by-Side Refrigerator
A discounted price does not automatically make a refrigerator a good purchase. Use the following factors to compare the true value of each model.
Measure the Installation Space
Measure the opening’s width, height, and depth in at least two places. Floors, walls, and cabinets are not always perfectly level.
Remember to allow space for:
- Ventilation around the appliance.
- Door and handle clearance.
- Water-line connections.
- Electrical access.
- Moving the refrigerator through halls and doorways.
- Pulling the appliance forward for maintenance.
Never order based only on the advertised width. Review the complete product dimensions before making a payment.
Choose the Right Capacity
A smaller refrigerator can work well for buyers who shop frequently and store fewer frozen items. Larger families, meal-prep households, and bulk buyers usually benefit from approximately 20 cubic feet or more.
Capacity numbers do not tell the full story. Compare the shelf arrangement, drawer sizes, door bins, ice-maker position, and usable freezer width.
Decide Whether You Need a Dispenser
An external dispenser provides convenient ice and chilled water, but it also introduces additional components and requires a suitable water connection.
A model without a dispenser may offer:
- More freezer-door storage.
- Simpler installation.
- Fewer controls and water-system components.
- A cleaner exterior.
Choose the feature based on how often your household will use it.
Compare Counter-Depth and Standard-Depth Designs
Counter-depth refrigerators generally sit closer to the front of surrounding cabinets. They can make a kitchen feel more open and create a more integrated appearance.
The trade-off is that a shallow cabinet may provide less storage than a deeper model with the same width. Check the listed cubic-foot capacity rather than judging size from exterior photos.
Review Delivery and Installation Costs
The refrigerator’s displayed price may not include every cost. Before ordering, check:
- Room-of-choice delivery.
- Unboxing.
- Water-line installation.
- Door removal or reversal.
- Old-appliance removal.
- Stairs or difficult access.
- Regional delivery charges.
The best deal is the model with the best complete delivered value—not necessarily the lowest advertised product price.
Examine the Seller and Return Terms
Amazon product pages may offer the same appliance through different sellers. Verify who sells and ships the item, the estimated delivery date, warranty information, return conditions, and procedures for reporting shipping damage.
Inspect the appliance as soon as it arrives. Photograph damaged packaging, dents, scratches, or missing parts before installation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Best Deal on Side by Side Refrigerator
What is the best deal on a side-by-side refrigerator?
The Kenmore 36-inch 20-cubic-foot model offers the best overall balance of capacity, counter-depth styling, adjustable storage, cooling features, and an external water and ice dispenser.
Which side-by-side refrigerator is best for a small kitchen?
The Hamilton Beach HBF1558 and Forno Salerno 33-inch models are the strongest options in this guide for kitchens that cannot accommodate a standard 36-inch refrigerator.
Is a side-by-side refrigerator good for a family?
Yes. A model with approximately 20 cubic feet of capacity can work well for many families. However, households storing wide trays may prefer a French-door freezer layout.
Do all side-by-side refrigerators have ice makers?
No. Some basic models omit the ice maker and water dispenser. These refrigerators can offer simpler installation, more door storage, and fewer water-system components.
Does an ice dispenser require a water line?
Most automatic ice makers and external water dispensers require a connection to the home’s cold-water supply. Check the manufacturer’s installation instructions before ordering.
What is the main disadvantage of a side-by-side refrigerator?
The freezer and refrigerator compartments are relatively narrow. Large pizza boxes, wide platters, and bulky frozen packages may be harder to store than in wider compartments.
Is counter depth the same as built in?
No. A counter-depth refrigerator is a freestanding appliance with a shallower cabinet. A true built-in refrigerator is installed more permanently and may sit completely flush with cabinetry.
Is it safe to buy a refrigerator from Amazon?
Amazon lists many full-size refrigerators, but buyers should review the seller, warranty, delivery service, damage-reporting process, return policy, and installation requirements before ordering.
When is the best time to buy a refrigerator?
Major shopping events and seasonal appliance promotions can offer discounts. However, the better strategy is to compare the complete delivered cost whenever your preferred model becomes available.
How long should a side-by-side refrigerator last?
Service life varies according to build quality, usage, environment, cleaning, maintenance, electrical conditions, and repair history. Proper ventilation and routine condenser cleaning can support efficient operation.
Final Verdict
The Kenmore 36-Inch Counter-Depth Side-by-Side Refrigerator is our best overall recommendation. Its 20-cubic-foot capacity, adjustable shelving, water and ice dispenser, Accela Chill feature, and counter-depth design provide a balanced package for most households.
For maximum capacity without paying for an external dispenser, consider the Hamilton Beach HBF2064. Its 20.6-cubic-foot interior, gallon-size bins, digital controls, and shallow cabinet make it a practical value option.
For a smaller kitchen, choose between the affordable Hamilton Beach HBF1558 and the more feature-rich Forno Salerno 33-Inch Refrigerator.
Always measure your space, check the current Amazon seller, and compare the complete delivery and installation cost before ordering. Prices and product availability can change at any time.
Hi, I’m the lead researcher and appliance enthusiast behind RefrigeratorSolve. With years of hands-on experience troubleshooting cooling systems and testing home appliances, I am dedicated to bringing you honest reviews, energy-saving tips, and practical solutions to keep your refrigerator running perfectly.
