Top 15 Best Counter Depth French Door Refrigerators Of 2024

Available Space

When deciding on a shallow depth refrigerator, available space is the most important consideration. Take accurate dimensions of the area that will house the new refrigerator. Refrigerator door openings are rarely square, so it's best to measure from a few different spots and settle on the smallest of the bunch. Don't forget to factor in the height and width of the baseboards and cabinet trim when taking your measurements.

It is helpful to filter down the options when you know the size constraints. Bring a tape measure with you when you go shopping so that you can make apples-to-apples comparisons. An additional inch or so is typically added to the dimensions given by the manufacturer to allow for the work of the installer. Don't forget to leave about an inch of space between them for optimal ventilation and airflow.

Storage Capacity

The interior layout should be considered after the exterior dimensions have been settled upon. When comparing fridges of the same width and height, the counter-depth models come up short in terms of storage space. In comparison to the 25–28 cubic feet of room in a regular fridge, the 20–22 cubic feet found in most counter-depth models is more than plenty for most households.

Some counter-depth refrigerators are wider and taller than standard-depth refrigerators to make up for the difference in depth. Because of this, counter-depth refrigerators can be more neatly arranged. Because of its larger and shallower profile, there's no need to rummage around in the back for any hidden morsels of nourishment.

Finish

There is a vast selection of styles available for refrigerators. Stainless steel, including standard stainless steel, black stainless steel, slate, and black slate, are among the most common finishes for counter-depth refrigerators since they are more expensive to produce than normal refrigerators. The choice of finish is subjective, but it is recommended that you make an effort to harmonize the look of all of your kitchen appliances.

Ice and Water Dispensers

It wasn't always standard in refrigerators to have built-in water and ice dispensers. Seemingly, modern, high-end freezers are incomplete without them. Because of their higher price tags, practically all counter-depth refrigerators come equipped with water and ice dispensers. These days, you can get dispensers with all sorts of fancy extras, like built-in LED lighting, filter alerts, and even crushed ice.

 

However, not all counter-depth refrigerators include such convenient dispensers. Since some households have installed water filtration devices that attach to the sink's faucet, ice/water dispensers have become unnecessary. This is why some contemporary models of French doors do not feature them.

Price

The equipment inside of a smaller-than-average appliance has to be squeezed into smaller and smaller areas. That's why it's not uncommon for counter depth freezers to cost more than their regular depth counterparts. Counter-depth refrigerators are typically more expensive than standard-depth models, but this is not always the case. The more expensive ones certainly are, but you may still find effective counter-depth refrigerators in more basic and affordable designs.

Food Storage Needs

Shortening the depth of a refrigerator reduces its capacity. The door and storage capacity of a counter-depth fridge will remain unchanged, but the shelves will be shallower by around 6 inches. An individual or couple can get by just fine with a counter-depth refrigerator. The full-size model is the best option if you have a big family.

Features

There are counter-depth fridge models with the same amenities as full-size fridges, but you'll usually have to give up more storage space to accommodate the extras, and the fridge will probably cost more overall. It's possible that a full-size fridge is the best option if you regularly need to store large quantities of food and want plenty of space in the fridge and freezer.

Easy-open freezer handle

It can be inconvenient to get to your frozen food if the freezer is at the bottom of the fridge. It may be difficult to take out the drawer when stooping due to the weight of the supplies and food. If you have a freezer with an easy-open handle, all you have to do is lift it up, and the freezer will glide out of the way. Those looking to upgrade to a larger refrigerator or those who simply want a more user-friendly appliance will benefit the most from this article.

Door alarm

Alarms can be set to go off on your phone or make a loud noise to remind you if you leave the fridge or freezer door open for too long. This is useful as your refrigerator ages since the seals on the door can become worn. If you have kids who tend to leave doors open or not shut them all the way, this is a great way to keep the heat in while they play.

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What’s the difference between a counter-depth refrigerator and a standard-depth refrigerator?

Refrigerators with a counter depth design are more space-efficient. Depending on the brand, the depth of a basic refrigerator can range from 30 to 34 inches (not including the door handles). In comparison to standard depth refrigerators, which are typically between 30 and 36 inches, counter depth refrigerators are just 23 to 27 inches deep. Because of this distinction, standard-depth fridges are roomier than counter-depth models.

What are the advantages of a counter-depth refrigerator?

Having a refrigerator that fits flush against the counter creates a sleeker overall appearance in the kitchen. Because they are shorter and shallower, they can easily get to the food in the refrigerator.

Are counter-depth refrigerators more expensive?

A counter-depth fridge will often cost you more than any standard fridge. This is because it lacks the conventional top-loading freezer and typically includes extras like a dispenser, ice machine, or adjustable storage space. When combined with French doors, these extras can make your refrigerator's storage capacity and user experience that much better. But they can add a hefty sum to the model's price tag if chosen.

Are all counter-depth refrigerators the same depth?

Except for the doors and handles, which might vary from model to model, most counter-depth refrigerators are 24 inches deep. The standard depth for cabinets is 24 inches, yet there are a few more dimensions to think about before making a purchase. Be sure to measure the appliance with the doors and handles closed, as well as with adequate clearance for wires and plugs. The depth of your cabinets should also be thought about, as tile backsplashes might affect that.

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If you'd prefer a fridge that doesn't stand out too much in your kitchen, a counter-depth model is a great choice. These refrigerators are designed with narrower footprints in mind, making them a great fit for spaces where cabinet space is at a premium. The list above features some of the greatest counter-depth refrigerators currently available.

 

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