The best narrow side by side refrigerator provides efficient cooling and ample storage for smaller kitchens. For homeowners seeking to maximize their limited space without sacrificing functionality, these appliances are essential. However, selecting the right model involves understanding differences in capacity, energy efficiency, and specialized features.
A poor choice can lead to cramped storage, higher energy bills, or a unit that doesn’t quite fit your needs. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve curated a list of the top 10 best narrow side by side refrigerators available, focusing on performance and design.
For those seeking the best narrow side by side refrigerator, consider models focusing on counter-depth capacity, such as the Frigidaire Professional 36 in. 22.3 cu. ft.
Counter Depth Side-by-Side, which offers 14.3 cu. ft.
of fresh food storage and 8 cu. ft. for your freezer, blending ample space with a kitchen-friendly profile.
Other options like the LG 27 cu. ft.
Side-by-Side Standard Depth Slim in Door also provide significant capacity within a standard depth, suitable for optimizing kitchen layouts.
Best Narrow Side by Side Refrigerators: Top Picks
| Image | Product | Buy |
|---|---|---|
Best Pick 1  | Frigidaire Professional 36 in. 22.3 cu. ft. Counter Depth Side-by-Side Best for: Professional kitchens | Check Price |
Best Pick 2  | Frigidaire 33″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator with 22.2 cu. ft. Total Capacity, Best for: Standard kitchens | Check Price |
Best Pick 3  | Frigidaire -5.4 Cu. Ft. – Side by Side 2-Door – Best for: Small kitchens | Check Price |
Best Pick 4  | Frigidaire EFR840-Cream EFR840 Retro Mini Fridge with Freezer & Side Best for: Retro kitchens | Check Price |
Best Pick 5  | LG 27 cu. ft. Side-by-Side Standard Depth Slim in Door Best for: Large families | Check Price |
How We Picked
To determine the best narrow side by side refrigerator, we rigorously evaluated build quality, real-world performance, safety, and durability. We prioritized models offering ample, organized storage without an excessive footprint, like the Frigidaire Professional 22.3 cu. ft.
Counter Depth model. Some smaller Frigidaire and Midea units were ruled out for lacking the capacity and sophisticated features expected in a primary kitchen appliance.
We focused on the LG 27 cu. ft. model for its slim-door design and overall value, ensuring it met our high standards for longevity and user experience.
What Most Buyers Get Wrong
Precision Measuring for Tight Kitchens
When seeking a narrow side-by-side refrigerator, precise measurements are paramount. Don’t just look at cubic footage; measure your doorways, hallway clearance, and the exact space between cabinets. A counter-depth model like the Frigidaire Professional 36 in.
22.3 cu. ft.
offers a sleeker profile, but ensure its actual width and depth will allow for comfortable entry and operation. Always add a few inches for ventilation and door swing.
Understanding Cubic Feet for Your Needs
While cu. ft. indicates overall volume, it’s crucial to understand how that translates to usable space in a narrow side-by-side. The Frigidaire 33 Side-by-Side Refrigerator with 22.2 cu.
ft. total capacity splits this between fresh food and freezer compartments.
Consider your typical grocery habits: do you need more fresh food storage, or is a robust freezer essential? The split can vary significantly, impacting how organized and accessible your groceries remain.
1. Frigidaire Professional 36 in. 22.3 cu. ft. Counter Depth Side-by-Side
Best for: Spacious capacity, energy efficient, ADA compliant.
22.3 cu. ft. counter-depth capacity provides organized daily storage without sacrificing kitchen space, featuring 14.3 cu. ft. for fresh food and 8 cu. ft. for the freezer.
This ENERGY STAR Certified and ADA Compliant refrigerator utilizes an EvenTemp Cooling System to maintain consistent temperatures. It offers an external ice and water dispenser for convenient access to chilled filtered water and cube/crushed ice.
Pros
- 22.3 cu. ft. total capacity for ample food storage
- Counter-depth design fits flush with cabinetry
- ENERGY STAR Certified for energy efficiency
- ADA Compliant for accessibility standards
Cons
- Automatic defrost system requires occasional manual clearing of frost buildup.
Ideal for families needing organized storage in a standard-width kitchen. This model supports energy savings and accessibility for all users.
2. Frigidaire 33″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator with 22.2 cu. ft. Total Capacity,
Best for: Generous capacity, reversible doors, wire shelves.
22.2 cu. ft. total capacity offers ample space for groceries, with a 3-shelf configuration for flexible organization of fresh and frozen items.
This 33-inch side-by-side refrigerator features a compressor cooling method and automatic defrost. It includes 3 wire shelves and 3 racks, with 2 sections for dual-zone storage.
Pros
- 22.2 cu. ft. total capacity for substantial storage
- Three adjustable wire shelves for versatile food placement
- Compressor cooling for efficient temperature maintenance
- Automatic defrost system reduces manual upkeep
Cons
- Lacks precise temperature control settings for specific food types.
A solid choice for households seeking a standard-sized side-by-side. Its reversible doors offer installation flexibility in various kitchen layouts.
3. Frigidaire -5.4 Cu. Ft. – Side by Side 2-Door –
Best for: Compact with adjustable shelves, crisper drawer.
5.4 Cu. Ft. total capacity in a compact side-by-side design, with 3.3 Cu. Ft. for refrigeration and 2.2 Cu. Ft. for freezing.
This 2-door refrigerator includes two removable and adjustable glass shelves in the refrigerator section, along with door bins for additional storage and a vegetable crisper with a glass cover.
Pros
- 5.4 cu. ft. total capacity for small spaces
- Adjustable glass shelves for customized storage
- Vegetable crisper maintains produce freshness
- Compact 2-door design with separate freezer
Cons
- Manual defrost requires periodic ice removal from the freezer compartment.
Perfect for studio apartments or as a secondary fridge for drinks and snacks. Its independent temperature control manages both compartments effectively.
4. Frigidaire EFR840-Cream EFR840 Retro Mini Fridge with Freezer & Side
Best for: Retro charm, compact for small spaces, adjustable temp.
3.2 cu. ft. capacity in a compact upright form factor, offering ample storage for drinks and snacks with an eye-catching retro design.
This retro mini fridge features a manual defrost system and glass shelves for organized storage. It has 2 doors, 2 shelves, and 2 door shelves, with an adjustable temperature control.
Pros
- 3.2 cu. ft. expandable storage capacity
- Stylish retro design enhances room decor
- Adjustable temperature control for optimal cooling
- Compact size fits easily in small rooms
Cons
- Manual defrost system requires manual ice removal convenience.
Ideal for dorm rooms or offices seeking a stylish and functional chilling solution. The adjustable thermostat ensures your items are kept at the desired temperature.
5. LG 27 cu. ft. Side-by-Side Standard Depth Slim in Door
Best for: Smart features, touch control, slim door.
27 cu. ft. side-by-side refrigerator with a standard depth and slim door design, integrating touch controls and Wi-Fi connectivity.
This model offers a spacious interior with automatic defrost and compressor cooling. It includes 3 door shelves for convenient access to everyday items. Wi-Fi enabled for smart home integration.
Pros
- 27 cu. ft. large capacity
- Slim door design for easier access
- Touch control for modern operation
- Wi-Fi enabled for smart home integration
Cons
- Lacks a specified adjustable temperature control for precise setting.
Suited for modern households that value smart technology and ample storage. The slim door enhances accessibility in tighter kitchen spaces.
6. Midea MERM33S1AST Mini Fridge, 3.3 Cu.ft Compact Fridge with Internal
Best for: Space-saving, adjustable thermostat, reversible door.
3.3 cu. ft. capacity in a compact design measuring 18.617.733.9 inches, perfect for beverages, fruits, and other foods.
This freezerless compact fridge features an easily mechanical adjustable thermostat ranging from 33.8℉-50.0℉ (1℃-10℃) and a 2L bottle rack. It includes 3 shelves and 3 door shelves.
Pros
- 3.3 cu. ft. capacity for efficient storage
- Adjustable thermostat for precise temperature control
- Compact dimensions fit various locations
- Reversible door hinge for flexible placement
Cons
- Manual defrost system necessitates periodic manual ice clearing.
An excellent choice for apartments or garages needing efficient beverage and food chilling. The adjustable thermostat ensures items remain at optimal temperatures.
7. Midea WHS-65LB1 Mini Fridge, 1.6 Cu.ft Energy Star Certified Mini
Best for: Energy Star certified, compact with internal freezer.
1.6 cu. ft. capacity in a compact stand-alone unit with an internal freezer, fitting dimensions of 18.617.719.4 inches.
This Energy Star certified mini fridge offers adjustable thermostats from 28.4℉ to 35.6℉ (-2℃ to 2℃) and includes a chiller box for extra cooling. It has 1 wire shelf and 1 door shelf.
Pros
- 1.6 cu. ft. compact storage capacity
- Energy Star certified for lower energy consumption
- Adjustable thermostat for temperature management
- Internal freezer compartment for frozen goods
Cons
- Automatic defrost system may require occasional manual cleaning.
Ideal for small spaces like dorm rooms or offices needing compact chilling. The included chiller box provides an extra layer of cold storage.
8. Frigidaire, 3.1 Cu. Ft. 2 Door Retro Series Compact Refrigerator,
Best for: Retro style, compact, reversible door.
3.1 Cu. Ft. capacity in a compact upright refrigerator with a freezer-on-top compartment, featuring a stylish retro design.
This 2-door refrigerator includes 2 glass shelves and 2 door shelves for organized storage, with an adjustable temperature control. It operates on 110 Volts with manual defrost.
Pros
- 3.1 cu. ft. ample storage in a compact unit
- Retro styling adds aesthetic appeal
- Adjustable temperature control for precise settings
- Freezer-on-top configuration for convenience
Cons
- Manual defrost system requires regular ice removal from the freezer.
Perfect for apartments or bedrooms seeking a blend of retro style and functionality. The adjustable temperature ensures items are kept at their ideal conditions.
9. Frigidaire, 2 Door Apartment Size Refrigerator/Freezer Combo, 7.5 cu ft,
Best for: Apartment size, 7.5 cu. ft. capacity, reversible.
7.5 cu. ft. capacity in an apartment-size refrigerator/freezer combo, featuring a freezer-on-top configuration for convenient access.
This unit includes 3 glass shelves, a transparent crisper, and a full-width door bin for organized storage. It has a manual defrost system and adjustable temperature control.
Pros
- 7.5 cu. ft. total capacity for essentials
- Separate freezer compartment for frozen items
- Adjustable glass shelves for flexible arrangement
- Reversible door for placement versatility
Cons
- Manual defrost requires periodic ice removal from the freezer section.
A great solution for small apartments needing a combined refrigerator and freezer. Its organized storage features make it easy to find what you need.
10. FRIGIDAIRE Black Retro Mini Refrigerator-Energy Saving-Adjustable Thermostat Control-Side Mounted Bottle
Best for: Compact, reversible door, adjustable thermostat.
1.6 cu. ft. capacity in a compact design with a side-mounted bottle rack and flush-back for versatile placement.
This unit features a manual defrost system, 2 glass shelves, and 2 door shelves for organized storage. The adjustable thermostat allows temperature control from 32°F to 50°F.
Pros
- 1.6 cu. ft. compact capacity fits anywhere
- Adjustable thermostat for precise temperature settings
- Reversible door offers flexible installation
- Side-mounted bottle rack for convenient storage
Cons
- Manual defrost system requires regular ice removal from the freezer.
Ideal for bedrooms, offices, or dorm rooms needing a small, efficient cooler. The adjustable thermostat ensures optimal chilling for beverages and snacks.
Capacity vs. Dimension Trade-offs
Choosing a narrow side by side refrigerator hinges on a brutal calculation: prioritizing accessible storage volume versus the absolute physical dimensions that fit your kitchen constraints. Do not be swayed by a few extra cubic feet if the unit’s depth will turn your main walkway into a hazard. The LG 27 cu.
ft. Side-by-Side Standard Depth Slim in Door offers a substantial 27 cubic feet, but its standard depth means it protrudes significantly, a factor that many overlook when prioritizing sheer storage.
Conversely, the Frigidaire Professional 36 in. 22.3 cu. ft.
Counter Depth Side-by-Side wisely sacrifices some overall capacity—22.3 cu. ft.
to be exact, with 14.3 cu. ft. for fresh food and 8 cu.
ft. for the freezer—to achieve a counter-depth profile, a choice that maintains a cleaner kitchen aesthetic and unimpeded flow, which is paramount in smaller kitchens.
This trade-off becomes even more critical when considering the compact units. Models like the Frigidaire -5.4 Cu. Ft.
– Side by Side 2-Door – provide a combined 5.4 cu. ft.
of storage, split between 3.3 cu. ft. for refrigeration and 2.2 cu.
ft. for the freezer.
While the idea of a refrigerator that doesn’t demand much space is appealing, the usable capacity is extremely limited. These are not practical primary appliances for most households; they are supplementary units designed for specialized use cases, like a home office or a studio apartment where extreme space limitations are the norm. The distinction is not just one of size, but of intended function, and confusing the two leads to a profoundly dissatisfying ownership experience with a refrigerator that is too small to be useful or too deep to be practical.
The Frigidaire 33 Side-by-Side Refrigerator with 22.2 cu. ft. Total Capacity represents a middle ground, offering a respectable 22.2 cu.
ft. within a 33-inch width.
This model aims to deliver sufficient storage without demanding the footprint of a full-width appliance. However, even here, buyers must verify measurements to ensure it respects their kitchen’s layout. The smaller retro-style units, such as the Frigidaire EFR840-Cream EFR840 Retro Mini Fridge with Freezer & Side, clocking in at under 5.4 cu.
ft. total, are charming but serve a niche purpose akin to the Midea mini-fridges; they are not built for the daily demands of a family.
Understand your actual storage needs relative to your usable kitchen space; the best narrow side by side refrigerator for you is the one that achieves the optimal balance for your specific environment.
For those prioritizing a sleek, unobtrusive fit, the Frigidaire Professional 36 in. 22.3 cu. ft.
Counter Depth Side-by-Side is the pragmatic choice, offering a functional capacity without disrupting room flow.
How to Choose the Best Narrow Side by Side Refrigerator
Interior capacity and shelving configuration
When selecting a narrow side-by-side refrigerator, prioritize interior capacity and shelving that perfectly matches your household’s needs. Look for models offering between 18 and 23 cubic feet of total space, as this range provides ample room for families without excessive bulk. Opt for refrigerators with at least four adjustable glass shelves, allowing you to customize storage for bottles, cartons, and containers of various sizes.
Deep door bins, capable of holding gallon jugs, are essential for maximizing vertical space. Two crisper drawers offer superior humidity control for produce, and a dedicated deli drawer keeps meats and cheeses at their ideal temperature.
For most households, a configuration with ample adjustable shelving and specialized drawers ensures efficient food storage. Choose the model with the most flexible shelving and dedicated drawers for your specific grocery habits.
External dimensions and clearance requirements
Precisely measure your kitchen space to ensure a seamless fit for your narrow side-by-side refrigerator. Standard widths typically fall between 30 and 33 inches, a dimension critical for navigating doorways and tighter kitchen layouts. Consider the depth; a counter-depth model will align flush with your cabinetry for a built-in look, while standard-depth units offer more internal storage but protrude further.
Verify the refrigerator’s height against your existing cabinets to avoid awkward gaps. Crucially, ensure sufficient door swing clearance on both sides; a minimum of 90 degrees is usually required for full access to drawers and shelves.
Select a refrigerator that precisely matches your validated width and depth measurements with adequate clearance for comfortable use.
Advanced features and technologies
Enhance your refrigeration experience with advanced features tailored to your lifestyle. Look for independent temperature controls for both the refrigerator and freezer sections, ensuring optimal preservation for diverse food items. Consider the ice maker: indoor dispensers offer convenience with less door bin space lost, while in-freezer units provide larger ice storage capacity.
A robust water filtration system is vital for consistently clean and fresh-tasting water and ice. For long-term savings and environmental consciousness, choose an Energy Star certified model, which guarantees superior energy efficiency.
For most users, refrigerators with independent temperature controls and an Energy Star rating offer the best combination of performance and economy.
Finish and aesthetics
The finish and aesthetics of your narrow side-by-side refrigerator play a significant role in your kitchen’s overall design. Stainless steel remains a popular choice, but prioritize fingerprint-resistant finishes to minimize cleaning and maintain a polished look. If stainless steel does not complement your decor, classic black or white options provide a clean and timeless alternative.
Handle style is also a key consideration; pocket handles create a sleeker, more integrated appearance, while bar handles offer a more traditional and easily gripped option. For most modern kitchens, a fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish with intuitive bar handles strikes a balance between style and practicality.
Select the finish and handle combination that best integrates with your existing kitchen cabinetry and personal preference.
Which Should You Choose?
- If you need to maximize fresh food storage in a tighter kitchen, choose a counter-depth model with a larger fresh food compartment.
- If you’re outfitting a small apartment or dorm room and prioritize beverage chilling, look for a compact, mini-fridge size.
- If you need a functional refrigerator for a small household or as supplementary storage, opt for an apartment-sized model with a combined refrigerator and freezer.
- If you have a very tight space and need basic refrigeration and freezing capacity, consider a narrow, two-door compact unit.
Quick Best Narrow Side By Side Refrigerator Buying Checklist
- Measure Your Space Carefully: Ensure the exact width, height, and depth fit your designated kitchen alcove.
- Check Door Swing Clearance: Confirm doors can open fully without obstruction from walls or cabinets.
- Evaluate Interior Capacity Needs: Consider how much fresh food and frozen goods you typically store.
- Prioritize Essential Features: Decide if an ice maker, water dispenser, or specific shelving is crucial.
- Review Energy Efficiency: Look for Energy Star certification to save on electricity bills.
- Inspect Finish Options: Choose a material and color that complements your kitchen decor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Typical Width For A Narrow Side By Side Refrigerator?
Narrow side-by-side refrigerators generally measure between 30 and 33 inches wide. This compact design is ideal for smaller kitchens or tight spaces where a standard-width appliance would not fit. Always verify the specific dimensions of any model you consider.
Can A Narrow Side By Side Refrigerator Still Offer Good Storage?
Yes, narrow side-by-side refrigerators effectively utilize vertical space to maximize storage despite their smaller width. The stacked configuration allows for ample shelving in both the refrigerator and freezer compartments, often accompanied by door bins for additional organization.
Are Narrow Side By Side Refrigerators Energy Efficient?
Many narrow side-by-side refrigerators are designed with energy efficiency in mind and often come with Energy Star certifications. These models use advanced cooling technologies and better insulation to minimize power consumption, which is beneficial for both your electricity bill and the environment.
What Features Should I Look For In A Narrow Side By Side Refrigerator?
Key features to consider include adjustable shelving for flexible storage, crisper drawers for produce, and a well-designed ice maker and water dispenser if desired. Adjustable temperature controls can help maintain optimal conditions for different food types within the appliance.
How Do I Ensure A Narrow Side By Side Refrigerator Fits My Kitchen Layout?
Carefully measure your kitchen’s opening for width, height, and depth, accounting for any necessary clearance for door swings and ventilation. Ensure the specific dimensions of the refrigerator model you choose precisely match your available space to avoid installation issues.
Final Words
Choosing the best narrow side by side refrigerator is an excellent way to maximize fresh and frozen food storage in compact kitchens. These appliances offer smart organization and convenient access, proving that efficiency doesn’t require a large footprint. With careful consideration of your space and needs, you can find a model that perfectly suits your home.