Side-by-Side Refrigerators: Sizes, Dispensers and Fit
A plain guide to side-by-side refrigerators: sizes, dispenser options, fit details, and four models compared by features.
- Side-by-side refrigerators are a strong choice when you want easy access to both fresh food and freezer storage.
- The most important fit checks are width, depth, height and door clearance.
- Dispenser style and ice maker setup can change how convenient the refrigerator feels every day.
- A 33-inch model is useful for tighter openings; 36-inch models are the most common full-size option.
- Counter-depth styling can improve the built-in look, while standard-depth models often prioritize capacity.
A side by side refrigerator gives you tall, narrow fresh-food and freezer sections, which is a smart layout for shoppers who want quick access to frozen items without bending into a bottom drawer. The key is making sure the width, depth and dispenser style match your kitchen and your daily habits.
If you are comparing a side by side refrigerator for a remodel or a replacement, focus on three things first: cabinet opening, hinge clearance and how much space the dispenser or door bins actually give you. The models below show how different widths and feature sets change the experience.
To compare more models, browse the full Frigidaire lineup.
Side-By-Side Refrigerator Sizes and Fit
The first fit question is width. In this category, 36-inch models are the standard format, while 33-inch side-by-side refrigerators are a better match for tighter openings or smaller kitchen runs.
Depth matters just as much as width. Standard-depth models project farther from the wall, while counter-depth-style side-by-side options sit shallower and can feel more integrated with surrounding cabinets.
Also check height before you shop. Most full-size side-by-side refrigerators sit in the high-60s to low-70s inch range, so you need enough room for the cabinet opening, leveling, and any crown or trim above the refrigerator.
- 36-inch models usually give you the most common full-size footprint.
- 33-inch models can solve tight-opening problems without changing the refrigerator style.
- Counter-depth side-by-side designs can improve the built-in look, but they often trade some storage volume for a shallower profile.
- Measure the full path to the kitchen, not just the final opening.
How to Choose a Side-By-Side Refrigerator, Step by Step
- 01
Measure The Opening FirstStart with cabinet width, height and depth, then check the path to the kitchen. A refrigerator that fits the opening can still fail if the doors cannot swing open cleanly or if the unit cannot make the turn into the room.
- 02
Decide Between 33-Inch And 36-Inch WidthsIf your space is tight, a 33-inch model can be the safer fit. If you have room to work with, 36-inch side-by-side refrigerators are the more common format and usually give you a fuller footprint.
- 03
Choose Standard-Depth Or Counter-DepthStandard-depth models usually offer more storage volume and may protrude farther into the room. Counter-depth options sit more flush with cabinets, which can improve the overall kitchen look and traffic flow.
- 04
Pick Your Dispenser StyleExternal dispensers are convenient for everyday water and ice access, while in-door or internal systems can create a cleaner front. Think about how often you use ice and whether dispenser access is a daily need or a nice-to-have.
- 05
Check The Ice Maker DetailsSome refrigerators include an ice maker, some list it as optional, and some do not include one at all. If you entertain often or use ice daily, make this a must-check item rather than a bonus feature.
- 06
Review Shelving And Bin LayoutLook for gallon door bins, crisper drawers and adjustable shelves that match your groceries. A good layout can make a side-by-side refrigerator feel larger and easier to organize than a spec sheet alone suggests.
- 07
Match The Feature Set To Your RoutineIf you want simple daily use, a straightforward model may be enough. If you want more convenience, look for smart connectivity, dual ice makers, child locks or door alarms based on how your household actually uses the refrigerator.
Our Picks by Budget
Simple Pick: Frigidaire FRSN2610AF Side-by-Side Refrigerator
Frigidaire FRSN2610AF 36 inch Side-by-Side Refrigerator with 26.4 cu. ft. Total Capacity, CrispSeal Crispers, Edge-to-Edge Glass Shelving and Garage Ready in Stainless Steel
The FRSN2610AF is a 36-inch freestanding side-by-side refrigerator with 26.4 cu. ft. of capacity and a door alarm. It keeps a simple layout without a built-in ice maker.
- Simple side-by-side format
- 26.4 cu. ft. capacity
- Door alarm
- 36-inch class footprint
- Built-in ice maker not included
- Wi-Fi not included
Samsung Pick: Samsung RS27T5200SR Side-by-Side Refrigerator
Samsung RS27T5200SR 36 inch Side-by-Side Refrigerator with 27.4 cu. ft. Capacity, LED Lighting, Door Alarm and Gallon Door Bins in Stainless Steel
The RS27T5200SR is a 36-inch side-by-side refrigerator with 27.4 cu. ft. of capacity, an ice maker, and a fingerprint-resistant finish.
- 27.4 cu. ft. capacity
- Ice maker included
- Fingerprint-resistant finish
- 36-inch class footprint
- Wi-Fi not included
- Child lock not included
GE Pick: GE GSS28NYYFS Side-by-Side Refrigerator
The GSS28NYYFS is a 36-inch GE side-by-side refrigerator with 27.9 cu. ft. of capacity, an in-door icemaker, LED lighting, child lock, door alarm, and a fingerprint-resistant finish.
- 27.9 cu. ft. capacity
- In-door icemaker
- Child lock and door alarm
- Fingerprint-resistant finish
- Wi-Fi not included
- Deeper footprint than some models
LG Smart Pick: LG LRSOS2706S Side-by-Side Refrigerator
The LRSOS2706S is a 36-inch smart LG side-by-side refrigerator with 27.1 cu. ft. of capacity, Wi-Fi, dual ice makers with Craft Ice, Energy Star, ADA compliance, and Sabbath Mode.
- Wi-Fi connectivity
- Dual ice makers with Craft Ice
- Energy Star and ADA compliant
- 27.1 cu. ft. capacity
- More features than basic needs require
- External dispenser details vary by listing
Side-By-Side Refrigerator Comparison
Frigidaire 36" | Samsung 36" | GE 36" | LG 36" | |
| Model | FRSN2610AF | RS27T5200SR | GSS28NYYFS | LRSOS2706S |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,073 | $1,195 | $1,253 | $1,795 |
| Width | 36 1/8" | 35 7/8" | 35 3/4" | 35 7/8" |
| Depth | 35 7/8" | 33 1/2" | 36" | 33 7/16" |
| Height | 69 7/8" | 70 1/16" | 69 15/16" | 70 1/4" |
| Style | Side-by-Side | Side-by-Side | Side-by-Side | Side-by-Side |
| Ice Maker | Not included |  | | |
| Wi-Fi | Not included | Not included | Not included | |
| Door Alarm | | | | |
| Child Lock | Not included | Not included | | |
| Capacity | 26.4 cu. ft. | 27.4 cu. ft. | 27.9 cu. ft. | 27.1 cu. ft. |
| Finish | Stainless Steel | Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel | Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel |
| View | View | View | View |
Side-By-Side Refrigerator Pros and Cons
- Easy access to both refrigerator and freezer sections
- Narrow doors can work well in kitchens with less clearance than a French door design
- Dispenser-equipped models make water and ice convenient
- Shelving and bin layout is usually straightforward to organize
- Freezer compartments can feel narrow on each side
- Standard-depth models project farther into the room
- Some models give up storage space to dispensers and ice equipment
- Capacity can look large on paper, but the split layout affects usable space
Dispensers, Ice Makers and Everyday Convenience
A dispenser can be the feature that makes a side-by-side refrigerator feel effortless, especially in a busy kitchen. External water and ice dispensers are convenient, while internal or in-door systems can keep the front cleaner-looking.
Ice maker setup also changes how you use the freezer side. Some models include an ice maker by default, while others omit it or make it optional, so it is worth checking that detail if you fill a lot of glasses or use ice every day.
Door alarms, child locks and gallon bins are small features, but they matter in real life. They help with organization, remind you when a door is left open, and make tall containers easier to store.
- External dispensers are the easiest for frequent water and ice use.
- In-door or internal systems can preserve a cleaner front profile.
- Gallon bins help the refrigerator side work better for larger bottles and milk containers.
- Door alarms add a useful layer of everyday convenience.
Side by Side Refrigerator Styles to Compare
Not every side-by-side refrigerator is built for the same household. Some models are focused on simple, durable storage, while others add smart features, advanced ice systems or a more premium cabinet look.
If you want a straightforward setup, look at models with a standard ice maker, LED lighting and useful shelving. If you want more tech and ice options, a connected model with dual ice makers or a smart display-style feature set may be a better fit.
The right choice usually comes down to how much you value convenience features versus a simpler design that is easier to keep familiar day to day. Both approaches can work well if the dimensions are right.
- Simple models are often easier to live with if you want fewer extra features.
- Smart models make more sense if connected features are part of your routine.
- Premium ice systems are useful for households that use a lot of ice.
- Shelf layout and bin design can matter as much as capacity on paper.
Shop side-by-side refrigerators in a range of widths, dispenser setups and finishes to find the layout that fits your kitchen.
Shop Side-By-SideFrequently Asked Questions
What size opening do I need for a side-by-side refrigerator?
Most side-by-side refrigerators in this guide are 33-inch or 36-inch wide, so your opening needs to match the actual cutout, not just the nominal width. You should also leave room for hinge movement, depth clearance and ventilation around the cabinet. Measure width, height and depth carefully before comparing models.
Are side-by-side refrigerators good for narrow kitchens?
Yes, especially when you want a full-size refrigerator/freezer layout without switching to a French door or bottom freezer style. A 33-inch model can be a strong fit for narrower openings. Just confirm that the doors can open fully without hitting cabinets or an island.
Do side-by-side refrigerators usually include an ice maker?
Many do, but not all. Some models include an ice maker as standard equipment, while others offer no ice maker or optional ice maker support. Always check the spec sheet if ice is important to your household.
Should I choose counter-depth or standard-depth?
Counter-depth models sit closer to the cabinets and usually look more built in, which can help with traffic flow in the kitchen. Standard-depth models often provide more total storage and can be a better match if capacity matters most. The right pick depends on whether you want a sleeker profile or maximum space.
What features matter most in a side-by-side refrigerator?
The most useful features are usually the dispenser type, ice maker setup, shelf adjustability and door-bin layout. LED lighting, door alarms and crisper drawers are also worth considering because they affect daily usability. Focus on the features you will use every day, not just the headline capacity.
