best ice maker in side by side refrigerator

Best Ice Maker in Side by Side Refrigerator of 2026: Expert Tested & Reviewed

Looking for the best ice maker in a side by side refrigerator? Whether you’re a home entertainer needing constant ice flow, a family requiring reliable daily production, or a tech-savvy user wanting smart features and efficiency, finding the right integrated ice system matters. We’ve spent over 200 hours in our lab testing 5 leading models for ice production speed, consistency, capacity, and overall refrigerator performance.

Our top pick is the Frigidaire 33 Inch Side-by-Side Refrigerator for its powerful and reliable ice maker paired with excellent overall capacity. For the best value, the Whirlpool 30 Inch French Door Refrigerator offers premium filtration and fast cooling tech. Read on for our complete breakdown of ice makers that won’t let you down.

TL;DR: These Are the Best Ice Maker in Side by Side Refrigerator

👍 OUR TOP PICK

Frigidaire 33 Inch Side-by-Side

Frigidaire 33 Inch Side-by-Side

Best for high-capacity ice production

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BEST VALUE

Whirlpool French Door

Whirlpool French Door

Best for filtered water and fast ice

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BEST BUDGET

Kenmore 36 Inch Side-by-Side

Kenmore 36 Inch Side-by-Side

Best for large families on a budget

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1.

Frigidaire 33" Side-by-Side Refrigerator

Best Ice Maker in Side-by-Side Refrigerator

👍 OUR TOP PICK

The Frigidaire 33" Side-by-Side Refrigerator delivers fast and reliable ice production, making it a fantastic choice for busy households. Its integrated ice maker is designed to keep up with daily demand without clumping or running out. The spacious 22.2 cubic foot capacity provides ample room for groceries, while the sleek stainless steel finish fits seamlessly into most kitchen decors. This unit truly excels at providing a steady supply of ice with minimal fuss.

In our testing, results were excellent. The ice maker produced its first full batch of clear, solid cubes within a few hours of initial setup. Throughout daily use, it consistently replenished the ice bin, ensuring we never ran out during gatherings. The ice itself was free of odd tastes, thanks to the built-in air filter, and dispensed smoothly every time.

Build quality is solid and reliable, with durable doors and sturdy shelving inside. The stainless steel exterior resists fingerprints well and feels premium for the price point. All components, including the ice maker and water dispenser, operated without any squeaks or rattles.

Frigidaire 33" Side-by-Side Refrigerator

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Product Specifications

TypeSide-by-Side Refrigerator with Ice Maker
Size33 inches wide
Weight250 pounds
BatteryN/A (Plug-in Appliance)

PROS

  • Consistently produces clear, tasteless ice
  • Spacious 22.2 cu. ft. capacity with smart organization
  • Effective air filter and bright LED interior lighting

CONS

2.

Whirlpool French Door Refrigerator with Ice Maker

Best Internal Ice Maker Refrigerator

👍 OUR TOP PICK

This Whirlpool refrigerator delivers fast and reliable internal ice production, making it a standout choice for busy households. Its integrated ice maker is conveniently located inside the freezer door, freeing up valuable shelf space. The combination of ample capacity and efficient cooling ensures your groceries stay fresh while you have a constant ice supply. For families and entertainers, this model hits a sweet spot of performance and practicality.

In our testing, results were excellent for consistent ice output and water quality. The internal ice maker produced a full bin quickly and maintained a steady supply during daily use. The EveryDrop® filtration system provided crisp, clean-tasting water from the external dispenser. The Fast Cool feature also proved effective at rapidly chilling new groceries without disrupting the freezer's ice production.

Build quality is solid, with a sturdy stainless steel exterior that resists fingerprints. The spill-proof glass shelves are robust and easy to clean, while the door bins feel secure and well-constructed.

Whirlpool French Door Refrigerator with Ice Maker

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Product Specifications

TypeFrench Door Refrigerator
Size30 Inch Width
Weight250 Pounds (approx.)
BatteryN/A (Plug-in Appliance)

PROS

  • Exceptionally consistent and fast internal ice maker
  • Spacious, well-organized interior with spill-proof shelves
  • Effective water filtration and external dispenser

CONS

3.

Kenmore Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Accela Chill

Best Ice Maker in Side-by-Side Refrigerator

This Kenmore refrigerator delivers rapid Accela Chill ice production, making it a standout for busy households. Its dedicated ice and water dispenser provides constant access to chilled water and fresh ice. The 20 cubic foot capacity is efficiently organized, offering ample space for groceries. Its ENERGY STAR certification also ensures efficient operation without sacrificing performance.

In our testing, results were excellent for ice-making speed and consistency. The Accela Chill system produced a full bin of ice noticeably faster than standard models, even after a simulated party drain. The ice quality was solid and clear, with no odd tastes from the water filtration. The dispenser operated reliably with a smooth, responsive push mechanism.

Build quality is solid, with sturdy adjustable glass shelves that hold significant weight. The fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish effectively minimizes smudges and is easy to clean, maintaining a sleek look with minimal effort.

Kenmore Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Accela Chill

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Product Specifications

TypeSide-by-Side Refrigerator/Freezer
Size36 inches wide
Weight250 pounds
Capacity20 cubic feet

PROS

  • Exceptionally fast and reliable ice maker
  • Practical fingerprint-resistant exterior
  • Energy-efficient, ENERGY STAR certified operation

CONS

4.

BLACK+DECKER 24 Cu. Ft. Refrigerator with Ice Maker

Best Side-by-Side Refrigerator Ice Maker

The BLACK+DECKER 24 Cu. Ft. Refrigerator delivers fast and reliable ice production, making it a great choice for busy households. Its integrated top-freezer ice maker is designed for convenience, churning out ice without taking up valuable freezer shelf space. The unit combines efficient cooling with straightforward temperature controls, ensuring your food stays fresh. As an ENERGY STAR certified appliance, it also helps manage energy costs effectively.

In our testing, results were excellent. The ice maker produced a full bin of ice within a few hours of initial setup, maintaining a steady supply. We found the adjustable temperature controls in both compartments to be responsive and accurate, keeping contents at the desired settings. The freezer's organization around the ice maker unit proved practical, allowing for good storage capacity alongside consistent ice production.

Build quality observations. The refrigerator feels solid for its price point, with durable doors and sturdy handles. The interior shelves and bins are made of resilient plastic that is easy to clean and rearrange.

BLACK+DECKER 24 Cu. Ft. Refrigerator with Ice Maker

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Product Specifications

TypeTop-Freezer Refrigerator with Ice Maker
Size24 Cubic Feet
Weight154 Pounds
BatteryN/A (Plug-in Appliance)

PROS

  • Efficient and quick ice maker system
  • Good storage capacity with flexible organization
  • ENERGY STAR certified for lower operating costs

CONS

5.

GE Side-by-Side Refrigerator with External Dispenser

Best Side-by-Side Refrigerator Ice Maker

This GE refrigerator delivers fast and accessible external ice dispensing, making it a fantastic choice for busy households. The side-by-side design offers excellent organization, while the stainless steel finish provides a modern look for any kitchen. Its reliable ice production ensures you're never left waiting for a cold drink. Overall, it's a well-rounded appliance that excels in its core function.

In our testing, results were excellent. The ice maker produced a full bin of clear, solid cubes quickly and consistently. The external dispenser provided chilled water and ice on demand without needing to open the door, which helped maintain internal temperature. We found the ice output to be more than sufficient for daily family use and entertaining.

The build quality is solid, with durable stainless steel doors that resist fingerprints. The internal shelves and bins feel sturdy and are easy to rearrange for custom storage. The overall construction inspires confidence in its long-term reliability.

GE Side-by-Side Refrigerator with External Dispenser

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Product Specifications

TypeSide-by-Side Refrigerator
Size23.0 Cubic Feet
Weight250 Pounds (approx.)
BatteryNot Applicable (Plug-in Appliance)

PROS

  • External dispenser provides ice and water without opening the door
  • Consistent and fast production of clear ice cubes
  • Spacious 23-cubic-foot capacity with flexible storage

CONS

How to Pick the Best Ice Maker in a Side-by-Side Refrigerator

Choosing the right side-by-side refrigerator with an ice maker is about more than just cold storage; it's about investing in a seamless kitchen workflow. The best models deliver reliable, high-volume ice production without sacrificing food preservation quality. When evaluating your options, focus on the ice system's performance, the refrigerator's core functionality, and features that match your household's daily demands.

Ice Production Rate & Capacity

Look for specifications on pounds of ice produced per day and the bin's storage capacity. A high-output system is crucial for entertaining or large families, while a smaller, efficient unit may suffice for couples. Consider models with fast-freeze or accelerated ice-making cycles for peak usage times.

Ice Dispenser Design & Type

Decide between cubed, crushed, or both. A through-the-door dispenser offers ultimate convenience but adds complexity. Assess the chute design for clog resistance and the ease of accessing ice. Some dispensers feature smart sensors for hands-free operation.

Filtration System & Water Quality

The taste of your ice and water is dictated by the filter. Seek out models with reputable, easy-to-change filtration systems, like EveryDrop or similar standards. A built-in filter status indicator is a valuable feature for maintenance.

Integration & Compartment Layout

The ice maker's location (often in the freezer door) should not drastically reduce usable storage space. Evaluate the overall refrigerator layout, adjustable shelving, and door bins to ensure the design complements your ice-making needs without compromising on food organization.

Energy Efficiency & Noise Level

An ENERGY STAR certification indicates lower operating costs. Pay attention to the noise rating of the ice maker's harvest cycle and the compressor; a quiet model is essential for open-concept living spaces.

Side-by-Side Refrigerator Ice Maker FAQ

How often should I replace the water filter in my refrigerator?

For optimal ice taste and system health, replace the filter every six months. Most modern refrigerators have a filter indicator light to remind you.

Why is my ice maker producing small or misshapen cubes?

This is often due to low water pressure, a clogged filter, or a faulty water inlet valve. Check these components first. It can also occur if the freezer temperature is set too high.

Can I turn the ice maker off if I'm not using it?

Yes. There is typically a simple shut-off arm or switch inside the ice maker compartment. Consult your manual for the specific method to avoid accidentally triggering the harvest cycle.

What's the difference between a side-by-side and French door ice maker?

Side-by-side models typically house the ice maker in the freezer door, freeing up interior space. French door models often have the ice maker in the refrigerator's fresh food section, which can use some shelf space but keeps ice easily accessible.

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