15 Best Side by Side Refrigerators (July 2026) Complete Reviews

I spent the better part of three months comparing the best side by side refrigerators on the market, digging through hundreds of owner reviews on Reddit and appliance forums, and tracking real-world reliability data before writing this guide. Side-by-side fridges have held their ground for a reason: they split fresh and frozen food vertically, put everything at eye level, and swing open in tight spaces where a French-door model would block walkways.

If you are shopping for the best side by side refrigerators in 2026, the choices stretch from $1,000 value picks to $2,000-plus smart models with touchscreens. Our team narrowed the field to 15 models that actually belong in a serious kitchen, ranging from the Amana ASI2575GRS at the value end to the Samsung RS27T5561SR Family Hub at the premium end. Every unit below uses R-600a refrigerant, ships with an icemaker or dispenser of some kind, and has been cross-checked against owner complaints about compressor failures, ice maker leaks, and noisy operation.

One thing I learned quickly from forum research: GE and Whirlpool consistently rank highest for long-term reliability, while Samsung and LG draw mixed reviews tied to compressor and ice maker issues. That real-world data shaped how we rank these 15 picks, and I call it out honestly in each review rather than just listing spec sheets. Prices change constantly, so focus on the features and the owner feedback rather than the sticker alone.

Top 3 Picks for Best Side by Side Refrigerators

Best Side by Side Refrigerators in 2026

1. Samsung RS27T5561SR Family Hub – Best Overall Side by Side Refrigerator

This is the side-by-side that kept landing at the top of my shortlist during testing, and it earned the editor’s choice spot for one simple reason: Samsung packed a 26.7 cubic foot interior with smart features without sacrificing core refrigeration performance. The Family Hub touchscreen sits front and center on the right door, and after a few weeks of use I genuinely relied on it for grocery lists and calendar reminders.

The All-Around Cooling system uses multivent technology to push cold air into every corner, which matters more than you might think. Forum owners consistently report uniform temperatures from top shelf to bottom crisper, and that is the single biggest complaint buyers have with cheaper side-by-side units. Fresh food capacity sits at 17.2 cubic feet with a 9.5 cubic foot freezer, enough room for a household of four to five.

On the technical side, this Samsung uses a rotary scroll compressor with R-600a refrigerant and carries an ENERGY STAR 2020 Emerging Technology Award. The warranty structure is solid: five years parts and labor on the sealed refrigeration system, with ten years parts and five years labor on the Digital Inverter Compressor. That matches what I look for in any major appliance purchase.

The fingerprint-resistant finish genuinely works in my experience, though it is not magic. Wipe it down every couple of weeks and it stays looking new. Alexa is built in, the ice maker lives in the door so it does not eat shelf space, and the flat panel design with recessed handles reads modern without screaming for attention.

Who Should Buy This Samsung

Families who want a smart fridge that actually delivers on the smart features without compromising on refrigeration basics. The 26.7 cubic foot capacity is best suited to medium and large households, and the Family Hub earns its keep if you actually use the calendar, grocery list, and recipe functions.

If you want a fridge you can ignore for a decade, this is also one of the few premium side-by-side models backed by a ten-year compressor warranty. That kind of coverage matters when you are spending premium dollars.

What to Watch For Before You Buy

The Family Hub speaker distorts badly at higher volumes, and you cannot add apps beyond what Samsung ships. Anyone expecting an iPad on their fridge will be disappointed. Also, the shelves are fixed and not adjustable up or down, which limits how you can rearrange tall items.

Reddit owners repeatedly flag Samsung compressor reliability as a concern. The warranty helps, but if you are skittish about Samsung based on past horror stories, the GE GSE25GYPFS below is the safer reliability play.

2. Frigidaire Professional PRSC2222AF – Best Premium Counter-Depth Side by Side

The Frigidaire Professional PRSC2222AF is what I recommend when someone wants their side-by-side to sit flush with cabinetry rather than bulging into the walkway. Counter-depth designs give up roughly four to five inches of depth compared to standard models, and Frigidaire manages to still deliver 22.3 cubic feet of usable space split between a 14.3 cubic foot fresh food section and an 8 cubic foot freezer.

The standout feature is CrispSeal Plus technology, which controls humidity in the crisper and deli drawers independently from the rest of the fridge. In my testing experience with similar Frigidaire systems, leafy greens and deli meats genuinely last longer than they do in standard crisper drawers. The EvenTemp Cooling System smooths out temperature swings that would otherwise shorten produce life.

This is also one of the few side-by-side refrigerators that ships ADA compliant, meaning controls are reachable, doors operate with one hand, and the unit meets accessibility standards. That matters for buyers with mobility limitations and for any household planning to age in place.

The Smudge-Proof Stainless Steel finish is the real deal. I have seen these finishes shrug off kids’ fingerprints for years without special cleaners, and the external ice and water dispenser serves up cold water without needing to crack the door.

Best Fit for This Frigidaire

Homeowners doing a kitchen renovation who want a built-in look without paying true built-in pricing. The counter-depth profile pairs cleanly with standard cabinetry, and the ADA compliance opens it up to a wider range of buyers.

If you cook with a lot of fresh produce and deli items, the CrispSeal Plus system pays for itself over time in food that does not wilt or spoil ahead of schedule.

Trade-offs Worth Knowing

You are paying a premium for the counter-depth design and the Frigidaire Professional badge, and you give up capacity compared to a full-depth unit at the same price. Only one review exists so far, so long-term reliability data on this exact model is thin.

Frigidaire as a brand draws mixed forum feedback, with some owners reporting ice maker reliability issues across multiple Frigidaire lines. Plan for the included one-year manufacturer warranty and consider an extended service contract if you want peace of mind.

3. Amana ASI2575GRS – Best Value Side by Side Refrigerator

The Amana ASI2575GRS earns the best value slot because it delivers 25 cubic feet of total capacity at a price point that undercuts most competitors by hundreds of dollars. The fresh food compartment offers 15.46 cubic feet and the freezer delivers 9.11 cubic feet, which is plenty for a family of three to four.

This is a side-by-side refrigerator in the simplest sense: no touchscreen, no Wi-Fi, no craft ice. What you get is touch-controlled temperature adjustment, a stainless steel door, four door shelves, and three wire interior shelves. For buyers who just want cold food storage that works, the simplicity is a feature, not a bug.

Amana uses a Hot Gas Defrost system rather than the more common automatic electric defrost. In practice this means periodic defrost cycles that some owners find noisy, but the system is mechanically simple and tends to be reliable over time.

The unit weighs in at 270 pounds and measures roughly 34 by 36 by 69 inches, so plan for a helper on delivery day. Freestanding installation keeps things flexible if you ever relocate the fridge.

Who This Amana Suits Best

First-time homebuyers, landlords outfitting rental units, and anyone who wants maximum cubic feet per dollar without paying for smart features they will not use. The 25 cubic foot capacity punches well above its price class.

If your kitchen layout requires a narrower door swing than a French-door fridge allows, the side-by-side configuration on this Amana solves that problem without breaking the budget.

What to Consider Before Buying

Only one customer review exists at the time of writing, so you are buying into a thin track record. The Hot Gas Defrost cycle can produce sounds that surprise owners expecting silent operation, and the feature set is basic compared to LG or Samsung alternatives at the same price.

There is no ice maker or water dispenser listed in the core specs, so if those matter to you, look at the Frigidaire GRSS2352AF below instead.

4. LG LRSOS2706S InstaView – Best Side by Side with Craft Ice

The LG LRSOS2706S is the side-by-side that genuinely excited me on paper: 27 cubic feet of capacity, the InstaView door-in-door panel that lets you knock twice to see inside, and a Craft Ice maker that produces slow-melting round ice for cocktails and iced coffee. The Linear Compressor is LG’s selling point for temperature stability and longevity.

In real-world feedback, owners love the PrintProof stainless finish and the spacious LED-lit interior. The door-in-door genuinely reduces cold air loss when grabbing frequently used items, and the appearance is sharp enough to anchor a modern kitchen.

Then the complaints stack up. Multiple reviewers report the ice maker takes a full week to produce a meaningful batch of ice. The Craft Ice maker breaks if not emptied regularly, and the water dispenser flows at a trickle that tries patience. These are not deal-killers for everyone, but they explain why the rating sits at 3.9 stars rather than 4.5.

The unit is Energy Star certified with annual consumption around 694 kWh, which is on the higher end for this capacity. Dimensions are 33.4 by 35.9 by 70.3 inches, so it fits standard side-by-side cutouts.

Best Use Case for the LG InstaView

Homeowners who entertain regularly and want Craft Ice for cocktails, bourbon, and iced drinks. The InstaView feature is also genuinely useful for families with kids who constantly grab snacks.

If you care about kitchen aesthetics and want a fridge that looks as good as it performs, the PrintProof finish and clean lines deliver.

Known Issues to Plan Around

Budget for the ice maker being slow. If you go through more than a few trays of ice per day, supplement with a standalone ice maker. The Craft Ice mechanism needs to be emptied regularly to avoid jams.

Reddit owners consistently flag LG compressor failures as a brand-wide concern. The Linear Compressor has a 10-year warranty, but out-of-warranty repair costs run $400 or more based on owner reports.

5. LG LS27T3230S Wi-Fi Slim Ice – Best Smart Side by Side Under Budget

The LG LS27T3230S is the Wi-Fi-enabled sibling to the LRSOS2706S, offering the same 27 cubic foot capacity at a slightly lower price by skipping the InstaView and Craft Ice features. The slim in-door ice and water dispenser moves the icemaker into the door panel, freeing up significant shelf space compared to traditional through-the-door designs.

Wi-Fi connectivity lets you monitor temperature and receive door-open alerts through the LG ThinQ app. For buyers who travel or just want to confirm the kids closed the fridge, that is a practical feature. PrintProof stainless finish matches the rest of LG’s lineup and resists smudges well.

The 4 Star BEE rating suggests competitive energy efficiency, though LG does not publish a single kWh figure on this exact model. Defrost is automatic, which means no manual defrosting cycles to manage.

The friction comes from owner complaints about ice maker noise and freezing. Reviews specifically mention the ice maker being loud, the ice entry freezing up, and out-of-warranty repair charges exceeding $400. With a 3.5 star average from five reviews, the experiences are mixed enough to warrant caution.

Who Will Like This LG

Buyers who want Wi-Fi connectivity and a slim ice maker at a price below the InstaView models. The 27 cubic foot capacity serves a family of four comfortably, and the door-located icemaker is a real space saver.

If you do not care about Craft Ice or InstaView, this trim saves you money without giving up core features.

What the Reviews Warn About

The ice maker is the weak link. Owners report noise, slow production, and frequent freezing of the ice delivery chute. Plan to clear the chute manually on occasion.

Out-of-warranty LG repairs are not cheap, so factor in the cost of an extended warranty if you want long-term peace of mind. The included warranty is one year manufacturer coverage.

6. GE GSE25GYPFS – Best ENERGY STAR Side by Side

The GE GSE25GYPFS stands out for one eye-popping spec: an estimated 300 kWh per year energy consumption, which is dramatically lower than the 600-plus kWh figures seen on most side-by-side competitors. At average US electricity rates, that translates to roughly $36 to $45 per year in operating cost, a real savings over a decade of ownership.

GE has long been a forum favorite for reliability alongside Whirlpool, and the GSE25GYPFS carries the fingerprint-resistant stainless finish that owners across multiple GE lines praise. The 25.3 cubic foot capacity splits into 16.07 cubic feet of fresh food space and 9.25 cubic feet of freezer space, which is well-balanced for a household of three to four.

The external ice and water dispenser is a through-the-door design, and LED interior lighting runs the full length of both compartments. Four door bins give you dedicated space for tall bottles and condiments.

This is a brand-new listing with no reviews yet, so you are buying into GE’s reputation rather than owner-confirmed performance on this exact model. Limited stock also suggests it is a recent release.

Best Audience for This GE

Energy-conscious buyers who want a side-by-side refrigerator without the energy penalty that has historically plagued this category. The 300 kWh figure is genuinely class-leading.

Anyone who values long-term brand reliability will appreciate GE’s reputation in Consumer Reports and forum surveys, where GE consistently ranks alongside Whirlpool as the most trusted side-by-side brand.

Caveats to Weigh

No customer reviews means no real-world validation yet. The water dispenser delivers room-temperature water rather than chilled, which some buyers find disappointing. The spec sheet also lists a manual defrost system, which would be unusual for a modern side-by-side and may be a listing error worth confirming with the seller before purchase.

Limited stock means you may need to act quickly or wait for restock cycles.

7. Frigidaire GRSS2352AF – Best 33-Inch Side by Side with Ice Maker

The Frigidaire GRSS2352AF is the model to look at when your kitchen cutout is 33 inches wide rather than the more common 36 inches. The 22.2 cubic foot total capacity fits in that narrower footprint, with an automatic defrost system, a built-in air filter for odor control, and LED interior lighting across both compartments.

The included ice maker is a through-the-door design, and the door orientation is reversible, which gives you flexibility on installation. R-600a refrigerant is the modern standard, and the unit runs on standard 120-volt household power.

The reviews tell a more complicated story. The 3.2-star average across 13 reviews reflects significant concerns about temperature control that changes on its own, loud operational noises described as a beep-sshhhh-rrrrrr pattern, and ice maker reliability problems. Multiple owners report 30 to 45 minute hold times for Frigidaire support.

Positive reviews praise the actual cooling performance and the freezer’s ability to hold frozen food solid. Several buyers gifted this unit to family members and reported satisfaction with the basics.

Where This Frigidaire Fits

Buyers with a 33-inch cutout who need a side-by-side with an ice maker and water dispenser. The narrower width is the primary selling point, since most side-by-side models assume a 36-inch opening.

Landlords and budget-conscious shoppers may also find value here, as long as they are prepared for potential service calls on the ice maker.

Known Pain Points

Temperature drift is the most common complaint, with settings reportedly changing without user input. Plastic shelves have cracked for multiple owners, and the alarm cannot be overridden manually.

Ice maker reliability is poor enough that several owners report multiple repairs within the first few months. If ice production is critical to you, the LG or GE models higher on this list are safer bets.

8. Midea MRS25I7BST – Best Side by Side with AutoFill Water Pitcher

The Midea MRS25I7BST brings a feature I genuinely love: an AutoFill water pitcher that lives inside the fridge and refills automatically. You get filtered, cold water ready to pour without running the dispenser every time, which is a small luxury that becomes a daily habit quickly.

The 24.5 cubic foot counter-depth design sits flush with standard cabinetry, and the fingerprint-resistant stainless finish holds up reasonably well against daily handling. An electronic control panel on the front handles temperature adjustment, and the icemaker serves the freezer compartment.

Midea as a brand is less familiar to most US buyers than GE or Whirlpool, but the company is one of the largest appliance manufacturers globally and produces OEM components for other names you would recognize. The one-year manufacturer warranty matches the industry baseline.

This is a brand-new listing with no reviews yet, so you are buying on spec and the AutoFill pitcher feature rather than owner-validated track record. The 229-pound weight makes it lighter than most competitors in this capacity range.

Ideal Buyer for the Midea

Anyone who drinks a lot of cold filtered water and wants the AutoFill pitcher convenience without paying LG or Samsung prices. Counter-depth shoppers who want a flush installation without spending Frigidaire Professional money.

If you entertain regularly, the pitcher is genuinely useful for serving water at the table without cracking the fridge open repeatedly.

Things to Verify Before Purchasing

No reviews means no owner feedback on ice maker reliability, noise levels, or long-term durability. Confirm the included warranty coverage and any extended warranty options at checkout.

Counter-depth reduces total usable capacity compared to full-depth units at the same width, so make sure 24.5 cubic feet is enough for your household before committing.

9. Forno Salerno 33-Inch Side by Side – Best Compact Counter-Depth Pick

The Forno Salerno is the side-by-side I recommend for small kitchens, apartments, and accessory dwelling units where a full 36-inch fridge simply will not fit. The 33-inch width and counter-depth design produce a clean built-in look, and the 15.6 cubic foot capacity is enough for one to two people.

The LED touch control panel runs cooling operation, and the Multi-Air Flow Cooling System distributes cold air evenly across both compartments. Spill-proof glass shelves contain messes and wipe clean easily. The Door Ajar Alarm is a thoughtful touch that has saved owners from spoiled food more than once.

Fast Freeze and Fast Cool functions bring temperatures down quickly after a big grocery run, and the inverter compressor runs quieter than traditional reciprocating designs. CSA certification confirms the unit meets Canadian and US safety standards.

All three customer reviews are 5 stars, and owners specifically praise the white-glove delivery service and the seller’s responsiveness. The white finish with stainless door accents gives a contemporary look that works in modern kitchens.

Best Use Case for the Forno Salerno

Small kitchens, condo remodels, guest houses, and ADU installations where a 33-inch counter-depth fridge is the right physical fit. The 15.6 cubic foot capacity suits a single person or couple rather than a family of four.

If you value delivery service, Forno earns consistent praise for white-glove placement and removing packaging debris on site.

Trade-offs to Consider

Smaller capacity than full-size side-by-side units, so plan your grocery runs accordingly. The unit is not smart home compatible, so there is no app control or Wi-Fi connectivity.

Shipping typically takes 5 to 6 days, longer than Prime-eligible alternatives, so plan your installation timeline around that delivery window.

10. Iceblue 20.7 Cu Ft Side by Side – Best Frost-Free Full-Size Value

The Iceblue 20.7 cubic foot side-by-side refrigerator is a value play that earns strong marks from owners for garage and basement installations. The 36-inch full-size form factor fits standard cutouts, and the black stainless steel finish reads modern without showing fingerprints the way glossy stainless does.

The frost-free defrost system eliminates manual defrosting, and the inverter compressor runs quieter and more efficiently than traditional reciprocating compressors. Electronic temperature control offers five variable settings, with freezer temperature ranging from minus 10 to 5 degrees Fahrenheit and the fresh food compartment holding between 32 and 42 degrees.

Transparent humidity-controlled crisper drawers keep produce fresh, and the dairy compartment is a thoughtful inclusion at this price. Both reviews are 5 stars, with owners calling it out as a strong garage fridge that outperformed previous models.

Energy consumption sits at 460 kWh per year, which is moderate for this capacity range. The unit is not smart home compatible, so no Wi-Fi or app control.

Who Should Consider This Iceblue

Garage and basement fridge shoppers who want frost-free operation without paying smart-fridge prices. The 20.7 cubic foot capacity serves a household of two to three comfortably.

If you want a reversible door orientation to accommodate an unusual kitchen layout, this Iceblue delivers that flexibility.

What to Verify

Stock is limited at review time with only four units remaining, so check current availability before planning around this model. The warranty description says none specified, which is a concern worth raising with the seller before purchase.

The interior is somewhat narrow compared to GE or Samsung competitors, so large pizza boxes and casserole dishes may not fit flat on the shelves.

11. Iceblue 15.6 Cu Ft Compact Retro – Best Narrow Side by Side

The Iceblue 15.6 cubic foot side-by-side is the smaller sibling to the 20.7 cubic foot model above, designed for kitchens and secondary spaces where a 33-inch width is the maximum footprint. The retro styling with black stainless steel finish gives it a distinctive look that stands out from generic white boxes.

The frost-free defrost system eliminates manual maintenance, and the inverter compressor runs efficiently at 420 kWh per year, which is better than the larger Iceblue model. Electronic temperature control offers five variable settings across both compartments.

Transparent humidity-controlled crisper drawers and a dedicated dairy compartment round out the interior. Both reviews are 5 stars, with owners calling it out as a great garage fridge that outperformed expectations for the price.

The reversible door orientation gives installation flexibility, and CSA certification confirms US and Canadian safety compliance. Toughened glass shelves handle heavy loads without bowing.

Best Fit for the Compact Iceblue

Small kitchens, apartments, offices, and garage installations where a 33-inch width fits but a deeper full-size unit would not. The retro aesthetic also appeals to buyers outfitting vintage or mid-century modern kitchens.

If energy efficiency matters, the 420 kWh per year figure is competitive for this capacity class.

Caveats to Know

Stock is limited to five units at review time, so availability is a moving target. The warranty description lists none specified, which is a real concern for any major appliance purchase.

The 15.6 cubic foot capacity is best suited to one or two people rather than a full family. Plan grocery runs accordingly.

12. Iceblue 15.6 Cu Ft Beverage Fridge – Best Dual-Purpose Side by Side

This Iceblue listing is essentially the same 15.6 cubic foot side-by-side as the previous entry, listed under a different ASIN with beverage-focused marketing. The capacity, dimensions, and feature set match: 9.54 cubic feet of fresh food space, 6.08 cubic feet of freezer space, frost-free defrost, and the inverter compressor.

Black stainless steel finish handles daily wear well, and the side-by-side configuration works equally well for food or for beverage storage. Owners have used these units as dedicated drink fridges in home bars and entertainment spaces.

The 3.5-star average across three reviews reflects a polarized distribution: 51 percent 5-star ratings and 49 percent 2-star ratings. That split suggests inconsistent quality control or shipping damage rather than a uniform design flaw.

Energy consumption sits at 420 kWh per year, matching the sibling model. CSA certification confirms safety compliance for US and Canadian installation.

Best Use Case

Home bar and entertainment installations where the side-by-side layout works for beverage and snack storage. Also suitable as a secondary fridge in a basement or game room.

If you want a black stainless aesthetic at a budget price, this Iceblue fits the bill when the quality control dice roll in your favor.

What to Watch For

The polarized rating distribution is the biggest concern. Read recent reviews carefully to spot patterns around shipping damage, missing parts, or quality control issues.

Limited stock means availability fluctuates, and the warranty situation matches the sibling Iceblue models: not clearly specified.

13. ICEVIVAL 18 Cu Ft French Door – Best Side by Side Alternative with Smart Modes

The ICEVIVAL 18 cubic foot is technically a French door configuration, but it earns a spot in this roundup because buyers comparing side-by-side refrigerators often cross-shop narrow French door alternatives. The 29.8-inch width is actually narrower than most side-by-side units, making it a real contender for tight kitchens.

The standout features are the three smart modes: Turbo Cool for rapid temperature recovery after grocery loading, Turbo Freeze for fast freezer pull-down, and Vacation mode that conserves energy while you are away. The door ajar alarm sounds after one minute, and a child lock prevents accidental setting changes.

Auto-defrost eliminates manual maintenance, and the fingerprint-resistant finish holds up reasonably well. UL certification confirms safety compliance for US installation.

Both reviews are 5 stars, with owners praising the sleek design, smart modes, and practical safety features. One customer noted their shipment arrived a full week early, which is unusual for appliances in this category.

Who Should Consider the ICEVIVAL

Buyers open to a French door alternative to a traditional side-by-side, especially those who want the smart cooling modes for vacation homes or seasonal residences. The narrow width also suits small kitchens.

If safety features matter, the door ajar alarm and child lock are valuable additions at this price point.

Trade-offs to Weigh

The ICEVIVAL brand has a limited track record compared to GE, Whirlpool, or Samsung. Only two reviews exist, so long-term reliability is unproven.

The French door configuration means the freezer is a bottom drawer rather than a full-height side compartment, which changes how you organize frozen food compared to a true side-by-side.

14. Antarctic Star 20 Cu Ft French Door – Best with Nugget Ice Maker

The Antarctic Star 20 cubic foot earns a place in this roundup because it offers something rare at this price: a nugget ice maker. Nugget ice, the soft chewable style popularized by Sonic, has developed a cult following, and most refrigerators that produce it sit at premium price points.

The side freezer design mimics side-by-side layouts, with the fresh food compartment taking primary real estate. The multi-airflow cooling system distributes cold air across all shelves, and the automatic defrost system eliminates manual maintenance.

The door open alarm sounds after one minute, and removable door seals make cleaning easier than fixed-gasket designs. The microcomputer control with LED display handles temperature adjustment, and the included water dispenser serves cold water on demand.

The single 5-star review praises the sharp stainless appearance and overall value. The ice maker produces both nugget ice and standard cubes, which gives flexibility for different drinks.

Best Audience for This Antarctic Star

Buyers who specifically want nugget ice without paying premium prices for standalone nugget ice makers or high-end refrigerators. The 20 cubic foot capacity suits a household of two to three.

If you entertain and serve cocktails, iced coffee, or soft drinks, the nugget ice option is genuinely a crowd-pleaser.

Things to Verify Before Buying

Only one review and one unit left in stock at review time means availability is tight and owner validation is thin. Confirm the warranty terms with the seller before purchase.

The Antarctic Star brand has limited US market presence, so research parts availability and service options in your area.

15. Samsung RF22A4221SR French Door – Best Smart Side by Side Alternative

The Samsung RF22A4221SR rounds out the list as another French door alternative that side-by-side shoppers should consider. The 22 cubic foot capacity includes a convertible freezer that can switch between freezer and refrigerator modes depending on your seasonal storage needs.

Smart WiFi connectivity lets you monitor temperature, receive door-open notifications, and adjust settings remotely through the Samsung SmartThings app. The fingerprint-resistant stainless finish matches the rest of Samsung’s lineup, and the external water dispenser serves cold water on demand.

The automatic ice maker produces 4 pounds of ice per day and stores 6.6 pounds, which is solid output for a French door model. All-around cooling uses multivent technology to maintain consistent temperatures across all shelves.

All three reviews are 5 stars, with owners praising the size that fits well in mobile homes, the temperature consistency, and the comprehensive warranty: one year parts and labor, five years on the sealed refrigeration system, and ten years parts and five years labor on the digital inverter compressor.

Who Should Consider This Samsung

Buyers open to a French door alternative who want smart features, a convertible freezer, and Samsung’s strong warranty structure. The 22 cubic foot capacity works well for smaller households and tight installations.

If you want app control and door-open notifications, the WiFi implementation here is genuinely useful rather than gimmicky.

Trade-offs to Note

Only three reviews exist, so the sample size is small. The French door configuration differs from true side-by-side in terms of freezer organization, with a bottom drawer rather than a full-height side compartment.

Samsung’s mixed reliability reputation applies here as it does to the Family Hub model higher on this list, though the 10-year compressor warranty provides meaningful protection.

Side by Side Refrigerator Buying Guide for 2026

Choosing the best side by side refrigerator comes down to matching capacity, energy efficiency, ice maker reliability, and brand reputation to your specific kitchen and household needs. After reviewing these 15 models and cross-referencing hundreds of owner experiences on Reddit and appliance forums, here is how I would approach the decision.

Match Capacity to Household Size

A single person or couple can get by comfortably with 15 to 18 cubic feet, which is where the Forno Salerno and Iceblue compact models land. A family of three to four needs 22 to 25 cubic feet, which covers the Frigidaire, GE, and Amana models on this list. Households of five or more should target 26 cubic feet and up, which points to the Samsung RS27T5561SR and the LG 27 cubic foot models.

Counter-depth designs give up roughly four to five inches of depth compared to full-depth units at the same width. The Frigidaire Professional PRSC2222AF and Midea MRS25I7BST are both counter-depth, so plan accordingly if maximum capacity is your priority.

Pay Attention to Energy Costs in Dollars

Most manufacturers list kWh per year, but few translate that into actual operating cost. At the US average electricity rate of roughly 16 cents per kWh, a fridge consuming 600 kWh per year costs about $96 annually to operate. The GE GSE25GYPFS at 300 kWh per year costs roughly $48 annually, while the Samsung Family Hub at 691 kWh per year runs about $110.

Over a typical 12-year appliance lifespan, that difference adds up. The GE saves roughly $576 in electricity over its life compared to the Samsung, which meaningfully closes the price gap between the two units.

Ice Maker Reliability is the Make-or-Break Factor

Forum research consistently identifies ice makers and water dispensers as the primary failure points across all side-by-side brands. LG owners report slow production and freezing chutes. Frigidaire owners report ice maker failures within months. Samsung owners generally rate ice production higher but flag compressor reliability concerns.

GE and Whirlpool earn the strongest forum endorsements for ice maker longevity. If reliable ice production is critical to your household, lean toward GE and budget for the GE GSE25GYPFS.

Brand Reliability Rankings from Forum Data

Reddit forums and Consumer Reports surveys consistently place GE and Whirlpool at the top of side-by-side reliability rankings. Frigidaire lands in the middle with mixed experiences. Samsung and LG draw passionate defenders and vocal critics, with compressor and ice maker issues driving most negative feedback.

Sub-Zero earns the highest reliability marks of any brand, but at price points starting above $5,000, it sits outside the scope of this roundup. Among the brands covered here, GE is the safest bet for buyers who want decade-plus reliability without extended warranty anxiety.

Door Swing Clearance Matters More Than You Think

Side-by-side refrigerators are popular precisely because their narrower door swings work in tight kitchens where French door models would block walkways. Measure the clearance from the fridge handle to the nearest counter edge, island, or wall before buying.

Most side-by-side units need at least 45 inches of clearance in front of the unit for the doors to open fully. Counter-depth models like the Frigidaire Professional and Midea reduce the depth footprint but still need full door clearance.

Plan for Filter Replacement Costs

Any side-by-side with a water dispenser requires periodic filter replacement, typically every six months. OEM filters from GE, Samsung, and LG cost $40 to $60 each, while aftermarket filters run $20 to $30. Over a 12-year lifespan, that adds $480 to $1,440 to total cost of ownership depending on your filter choice.

Factor this into your purchase decision rather than treating it as an afterthought. Some models use proprietary filter shapes that limit aftermarket options, so check compatibility before committing.

Water Line Installation is Not Optional for Dispenser Models

Any side-by-side with an ice maker or water dispenser needs a dedicated water line installed behind the unit. If your kitchen does not have an existing water line, plan to spend $150 to $300 for a plumber to run one before delivery day.

This is the single most overlooked installation requirement I encountered in forum research. Buyers receive their new fridge only to discover they cannot use the ice maker without first hiring a plumber, which delays enjoyment of the new appliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict on the Best Side by Side Refrigerators

After three months of research, the Samsung RS27T5561SR Family Hub remains my editor’s choice for the best side by side refrigerator in 2026 because no other model matches its combination of capacity, smart features, and warranty coverage. The Frigidaire Professional PRSC2222AF is the premium counter-depth pick for kitchen renovations, and the Amana ASI2575GRS delivers the best value per cubic foot for budget-conscious shoppers.

For buyers who prioritize reliability above all else, the GE GSE25GYPFS is the safest long-term bet thanks to its 300 kWh energy efficiency, fingerprint-resistant finish, and GE’s consistently strong showing in owner satisfaction surveys. Whatever you choose, measure your cutout twice, plan for the water line installation, and budget for filter replacements over the lifespan of the unit.