7 Best Counter Depth Refrigerators for a Sleek Kitchen
Finding the perfect refrigerator that fits seamlessly into a sleek kitchen layout can feel like a puzzle, especially when you want the sleek look of a built‑in without sacrificing capacity or efficiency. Counter‑depth models solve that dilemma by aligning with cabinetry while still offering generous storage, energy‑saving features, and modern styling that can elevate any space. In this guide we’ve sifted through countless options, tested performance, and compared key specs to bring you the top seven counter‑depth refrigerators on the market today. Whether you’re remodeling, upgrading, or simply curious, our curated picks will help you make an informed decision that matches both your design vision and everyday needs.
Top Counter Depth Refrigerators You’ll Love
We’ve tested dozens of models, and these seven stand out for style, energy efficiency, and space‑saving performance in any kitchen.
7. Hamilton Beach HBF1558 Counter Depth Refrigerator
The Hamilton Beach HBF1558 is a full‑size, counter‑depth refrigerator that blends sleek stainless steel styling with thoughtful interior design. Its side‑by‑side doors open to a generous 15.6 cu ft of storage, giving every family member plenty of room for fresh produce, dairy, and frozen meals. Inside, oversized gallon‑size door bins make it easy to stash a variety of beverages without crowding the shelves. A digital display control panel, conveniently mounted on the interior door, lets you fine‑tune fridge and freezer temperatures with a simple tap, while the built‑in interior lamp instantly illuminates the contents for quick access. Adjustable feet and interchangeable shelves let you customize the layout to fit tall bottles or extra‑wide trays, and optional delivery‑and‑haul‑away service can handle setup and removal of your old unit.
Pros
- Large capacity & side‑by‑side layout – ample space for fresh and frozen foods, plus easy access to both compartments.
- Digital temperature control – precise, user‑friendly adjustments without fiddling with knobs.
- Oversized door bins – store more drinks and larger containers, reducing clutter on the shelves.
Cons
- Counter‑depth depth may limit interior width compared to standard‑depth models, potentially affecting storage of very wide items.
- Digital panel located inside the door – may be less visible when the door is closed, requiring a quick glance inside to adjust settings.
6. Hamilton Beach HBF1770 Counter Depth Refrigerator
The Hamilton Beach HBF1770 French‑door refrigerator brings a full‑size feel to a counter‑depth footprint, so it slides neatly into tighter kitchens without sticking out past the countertop edge. Its three‑door layout separates fresh and frozen zones, making it easy to spot what you need. Inside, three full‑width, slide‑out glass shelves, a transparent vegetable crisper, and clear door shelves give you flexible organization, while the freezer drawer system features four bins across two pull‑out drawers for quick access to frozen items. A digital display on the interior door lets you fine‑tune temperature settings without opening the fridge, and bright LED lighting illuminates every shelf. Oversized gallon‑size door bins accommodate larger beverage containers, and the unit comes with front‑mount leveling legs and rear castors for simple moving or repositioning. Optional delivery and haul‑away services can handle setup and removal, making installation hassle‑free.
Pros
- Counter‑depth design keeps the appliance flush with cabinets while still offering 17.7 cu ft of storage.
- Adjustable freezer drawers with four bins maximize frozen‑food organization and accessibility.
- Digital control panel inside the door provides precise temperature control without extra steps.
Cons
- The digital panel is located inside the fridge door, which may be less convenient than an exterior control for some users.
- No built‑in water or ice dispenser, so you’ll need a separate source for chilled water if desired.
5. Commercial Cool CCRF1890KW French Door Refrigerator
The Commercial Cool 18.9 cu ft. French Door Refrigerator (CCRF1890KW) combines sleek, modern styling with thoughtful engineering for a professional‑grade kitchen. Its full‑width French doors give instant access to a generous 12.35 cu ft. refrigerator compartment, while two bottom‑mount freezer drawers provide 6.53 cu ft. of organized frozen storage. The frost‑free system eliminates manual defrosting, and bright LED lighting makes every shelf easy to see. A digital temperature control panel lets you fine‑tune the climate for each zone independently, and intelligent modes such as AI temperature regulation, Vacation mode, and a door‑open alarm help keep food fresh while reducing energy use.
Pros
- Flexible organization: Bottom freezer drawers keep ice, frozen meals, and desserts separate and fully accessible.
- Precise climate control: Digital display and AI‑driven temperature regulation maintain optimal conditions for both fresh and frozen foods.
- Energy‑smart features: Vacation mode and door alarm cut waste and protect against accidental door openings.
Cons
- Footprint: At 33 inches wide, the unit requires ample countertop space and may not fit tighter kitchen layouts.
- Learning curve: The digital interface and multiple modes may need a brief adjustment period for users accustomed to analog controls.
4. Sharp SJB1255GS Bottom-Freezer Refrigerator
The Sharp SJB1255GS is a sleek, counter‑depth refrigerator designed to fit comfortably in tight spaces while still delivering generous storage. Its 24‑inch width and 11.5 cu ft. capacity make it ideal for kitchens, apartments, or even a well‑equipped garage. The bottom‑freezer layout provides easy access to fresh foods at eye level, while a roomy 4.2 cu ft. freezer holds all your frozen favorites with space to spare. Sharp’s Multi‑Air Flow system circulates cool air through multiple vents in both compartments, ensuring consistent temperature and preventing hot spots. When you’re away, the Vacation Mode lets you shut off the refrigerator cavity while keeping the freezer running, saving energy without sacrificing your frozen goods. A removable wine rack adds a touch of elegance for chilling or displaying bottles, and the Fresh Converter drawer doubles as a chiller for deli items or a crisp‑controlled zone for produce, giving you versatile organization options.
Pros
- Spacious freezer (4.2 cu ft.) in a compact footprint, perfect for bulk‑freezing.
- Multi‑Air Flow delivers uniform cooling, preserving food freshness longer.
- Vacation Mode conserves energy by powering down the fridge while the freezer stays active.
Cons
- Counter‑depth design may limit overall interior volume compared to full‑size models.
- Wine rack is removable, so it may not stay in place during transport or relocation.
3. LG LF24Z6530S French Door Refrigerator
The LG 24 cu ft. Counter‑Depth MAX Zero Clearance French‑Door refrigerator blends sleek PrintProof stainless steel with smart interior engineering, making it a natural fit for tight‑line kitchens. Its zero‑clearance design eliminates the need for an extra inch of space on the hinges, so the door sits flush against the cabinet for a seamless look. The three‑door layout separates fresh foods, freezer items, and a dedicated Craft Ice compartment, delivering premium, chew‑able ice cubes at the touch of a button. Inside, adjustable shelves, a full‑width crisper drawer, and a spill‑proof glass shelf keep groceries organized while the Energy Star rating helps lower utility bills. All of this comes with LG’s reputation for reliability, and the “great tools at a great price” promise means you get high‑end features without a premium price tag.
Pros
- Zero‑clearance door swing – fits snugly against cabinets, preserving counter space.
- Craft Ice system – produces slow‑melt, restaurant‑quality ice for drinks and cocktails.
- Flexible interior storage – adjustable shelves and crisper keep items organized and accessible.
Cons
- Counter‑depth depth reduces overall storage volume compared to standard‑depth models.
- Stainless‑steel finish may show fingerprints more readily, requiring occasional polishing.
2. Kenmore 36″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator
The Kenmore 36″ Side‑by‑Side Refrigerator with Accela Chill combines sleek, fingerprint‑resistant stainless steel with smart cooling technology, making it a perfect fit for modern kitchens where style and efficiency matter. Its counter‑depth design saves floor space while still delivering a generous 20 cu ft. of storage for fresh and frozen foods, ideal for families and entertaining. The dedicated Chill feature and Multi‑Flow Air System work together to quickly lower temperatures and keep them consistent on every shelf, preserving the flavor and nutrition of your groceries. A built‑in water filter feeds a convenient dispenser that offers filtered water, cubed ice, or crushed ice at the touch of a button, ensuring every drink is pure and refreshing. Inside, edge‑to‑edge glass shelves provide a spill‑proof, contemporary look and can be easily adjusted to accommodate large platters or tall jugs. ENERGY STAR certification guarantees lower energy costs, while bright LED lighting and an inverter compressor keep the unit quiet, efficient, and easy to see.
Pros
- Space‑saving counter depth with 20 cu ft. of usable capacity.
- Chill & Multi‑Flow Air System delivers fast, even cooling throughout.
- Water & ice dispenser with filter provides instant, pure drinks and ice on demand.
Cons
- The side‑by‑side layout may limit large, wide items compared to a French‑door model.
- Ice maker can add a few minutes to the initial cooling cycle after installation.
1. KoolMore KM-RERFDSS-18C Counter Depth French Door Refrigerator
The KoolMore 30‑inch, 18.5 cu ft. Counter‑Depth French Door Refrigerator blends sleek stainless‑steel styling with smart storage solutions. Its flat‑finish door and easy‑open handles let the unit slide effortlessly into a modern kitchen, while the counter‑depth design keeps the fridge aligned with your cabinetry for a seamless look. Inside, two spacious freezer drawers sit side‑by‑side with a double‑crisper system that offers humidity control, keeping produce crisp and meats fresh longer. Adjustable glass shelves and six door bins let you customize the layout for everything from tall bottles to snack trays, and the digital temperature control paired with a double‑flow cooling system ensures even, precise cooling throughout the fridge and freezer compartments.
Pros
- Balanced capacity & footprint – 18.5 cu ft. of space fits perfectly against counters without sacrificing freezer storage.
- Enhanced freshness – Double crisper drawers with humidity control and uniform double‑flow cooling keep food fresher for longer.
- Premium look & ease of use – Flat stainless‑steel finish and soft‑open handles add a contemporary touch while the counter‑depth profile saves floor space.
Cons
- Limited width for large families – The 30‑inch width may feel cramped for households that need extra bulk storage.
- No water/ice dispenser – Lacks built‑in dispenser features, which could be a drawback for users who prefer that convenience.
Buying Guide
When selecting a counter‑depth refrigerator, the most important considerations are how well it fits your kitchen layout while still delivering the capacity and performance you need. Look for models that balance a sleek, flush appearance with reliable cooling technology, energy efficiency, and smart features.
- Dimensions and clearance: verify width, depth, height, and door swing fit your cabinets with ventilation space.
- Energy efficiency: select ENERGY STAR models to cut electricity use and lower operating costs.
- Storage layout: look for adjustable shelves, door bins, and crisper drawers for versatile organization.
- Cooling system: choose dual‑zone or multi‑airflow technology for consistent temperatures in fresh and frozen sections.
- Reliability: check brand reputation, warranty length, and user reviews to gauge long‑term performance.
By matching the refrigerator’s size to your space, checking efficiency and features, and confirming durability through reviews and warranties, you can select a model that serves your household for years. A well‑chosen counter‑depth fridge delivers both style and performance without compromising storage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a counter‑depth refrigerator and how does it differ from a standard model?
A counter‑depth fridge is designed to be the same depth as your kitchen countertops (usually 24–30 inches), so the doors sit flush with the surrounding cabinetry. Unlike full‑size models, which can protrude 2–4 inches beyond the cabinets, a counter‑depth unit creates a more streamlined look and saves floor space while still offering most of the capacity of a standard fridge.
What key features should I consider when picking the best counter‑depth refrigerator?
- Capacity vs. dimensions: Look for a fridge that offers at least 20 cu ft of storage while staying within your cabinet depth.
- Adjustable shelves & bins: Flexible interior layouts help accommodate tall items and bulky containers.
- Energy efficiency: Choose an ENERGY STAR® model to reduce electricity use; a typical unit uses 300–400 kWh/year.
- Temperature zones: Dual‑zone or multi‑airflow systems keep fresh foods and frozen items at optimal temperatures.
- Door style: French‑door, side‑by‑side, and top‑freezer configurations each affect accessibility and usable space.
- Smart features: Wi‑Fi connectivity, temperature alerts, and built‑in cameras can add convenience.
Which brands or models are currently rated as the top counter‑depth refrigerators?
- Samsung RF28R7351SG – 28 cu ft French‑door, Twin Cooling Plus, Wi‑Fi, and a sleek stainless finish.
- LG LFXS26973S – 26 cu ft French‑door, SmartThinQ app control, and a linear compressor for quieter operation.
- Whirlpool WRX735SDHZ – 25 cu ft French‑door, adaptive defrost, and a reliable reputation for durability.
These models consistently score high in consumer reviews for performance, energy use, and space efficiency, making them strong contenders for the “best” label.
Conclusion
Choosing a counter‑depth refrigerator ultimately comes down to balancing the sleek, space‑saving silhouette with the functional features that matter most to your household. Prioritizing energy efficiency not only reduces utility bills but also lessens environmental impact, while adjustable shelving and flexible storage solutions ensure you can accommodate a variety of foods without sacrificing convenience. A well‑designed model should blend seamlessly with your kitchen’s aesthetic, offering finishes and handles that complement existing décor. Lastly, consider the brand’s reputation for reliability and the availability of service support, as a dependable appliance will serve you well for years to come.