When searching for the best side-by-side refrigerators with ice makers, it’s essential to balance features, size, and price. The Kenmore 29 cu. ft. wider model stands out for its spaciousness and reliability, making it ideal for large families. The Frigidaire 22.2 cu. ft. model offers excellent value with efficient performance and convenient features, perfect for smaller households. Meanwhile, the BLACK+DECKER 16 Cu. Ft. fridge provides a budget-friendly option, though it sacrifices some capacity and advanced features. Buyers often face tough choices between capacity, energy efficiency, and upfront costs. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown to find the perfect fit for your home.
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Key Takeaways
- The top-ranking models balance capacity, energy efficiency, and reliable ice-making performance.
- Wider models like the Kenmore 29 cu. ft. excel for large families needing more storage space.
- Budget options such as BLACK+DECKER deliver basic features but may lack advanced functions or capacity.
- Size and fit are critical; measure your space carefully to avoid purchasing a refrigerator that won’t fit.
- Features like water dispensers and digital controls vary widely; prioritize what matters most for your lifestyle.
| side-by-side refrigerators with ice maker | Capacity |
|---|---|
| Midea MRS25I7BST 24.5 Cu. Ft. | 24.5 Cu. Ft. |
| BLACK+DECKER 16 Cu. Ft. French | 16 Cu. Ft. |
| Antarctic Star 20 Cu.Ft French | 20 Cu.Ft |
| Electactic 18.1 Cu. Ft. Side b | 18.1 Cu. Ft. |
| Kenmore 29 cu. ft. 36" Wide Si | 29 cu. ft. |
| Frigidaire 33-Inch Side-by-Sid | — |
| Kenmore 20 cu. ft. 36" Wide Si | 20 cu. ft. |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Midea MRS25I7BST 24.5 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Counter-Depth Side-by-Side Refrigerator
This Midea model stands out for its sleek fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish and counter-depth design, which helps it blend seamlessly into modern kitchens. Compared to the larger Kenmore 29 cu. ft. unit, it offers a more compact footprint ideal for tighter spaces. The built-in icemaker and autofill water pitcher enhance convenience, but with limited detailed specs available, it lacks some of the advanced features found in pricier models. This pick makes sense for buyers prioritizing style, ease of maintenance, and balanced capacity without excessive bulk. However, it may fall short for those needing the largest storage capacity or advanced smart features. Overall, it suits consumers wanting a reliable, space-saving side-by-side with basic ice and water functions.Pros:- Fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish for easy cleaning
- Counter-depth design enhances kitchen aesthetics
- Includes autofill water pitcher for convenience
- Built-in icemaker provides ready ice supply
Cons:- Limited detailed specifications reduce clarity on features
- Lacks advanced smart or energy efficiency features
Best for: Kitchens where space is tight but style and ease of use matter most
Not ideal for: Large families needing maximum storage or advanced tech features
- Capacity:24.5 Cu. Ft.
- Finish:Stainless Steel
- Type:Side-by-Side Refrigerator
- Depth:Counter-Depth
Our verdict“Best for homeowners seeking a sleek, space-efficient refrigerator with essential ice and water functions.”
BLACK+DECKER 16 Cu. Ft. French Door Refrigerator with Ice Maker, Stainless Look
This model offers a compact yet versatile option with a total capacity of 16 cu. ft., combining a French door fridge with a built-in ice maker capable of producing 3.5 lbs. daily. While it doesn’t match the capacity of larger units like the Kenmore 29 cu. ft., its modern design and digital controls make it a practical choice for smaller kitchens or budget-conscious buyers. The full-width fridge and freezer compartments improve organization, but the limited capacity could be a drawback for large families or those needing more storage. Compared with the Antarctic Star 20 cu. ft. model, it’s less spacious but also more affordable. This refrigerator is ideal for those wanting efficient ice production and a stylish look without premium pricing. However, the lack of detailed specs and customer ratings makes it a less transparent choice.Pros:- Modern French door design adds style and convenience
- Ample storage with full-width fridge and freezer sections
- Built-in ice maker produces up to 3.5 lbs. of ice daily
- Digital temperature controls for precise settings
Cons:- Limited overall capacity may not suit large families
- No detailed specs or customer ratings available
Best for: Small households or apartment dwellers wanting a reliable, space-efficient fridge with ice maker
Not ideal for: Large families or users needing extensive storage or advanced features
- Capacity:16 Cu. Ft.
- Fridge Capacity:11.15 Cu. Ft.
- Freezer Capacity:5.06 Cu. Ft.
- Ice Maker:Yes, produces 3.5 lbs. per day
Our verdict“Ideal for small households seeking a stylish, space-saving fridge with reliable ice production.”
Antarctic Star 20 Cu.Ft French Door Refrigerator, Stainless Steel with Water Dispenser and Ice Maker
With a spacious 20 cu.ft. capacity, this Antarctic Star fridge is well-suited for larger households needing ample storage and versatile features. Its stainless steel finish and side freezer provide convenient access to frozen goods, while the water dispenser and nugget/cube ice maker add convenience. Compared with the smaller Black+Decker, it offers significantly more storage but at the cost of larger footprint, which requires sufficient kitchen space. The automatic defrosting and multi-airflow cooling help maintain food freshness, but the lack of explicit energy efficiency ratings might concern eco-conscious buyers. This model makes the most sense for those prioritizing capacity over compactness, especially if space is available. Its straightforward features make it reliable for everyday use, but it’s less suited for tight kitchens.Pros:- Generous 20 cu.ft. capacity for large household needs
- Modern stainless steel design with water and ice dispenser
- Automatic defrosting for low maintenance
- Multi-airflow cooling system for even temperature
Cons:- No clear energy efficiency information provided
- Size may be impractical for smaller kitchens
Best for: Large families needing spacious storage with basic water and ice features
Not ideal for: Small apartments with limited space or buyers seeking advanced smart features
- Capacity:20 Cu.Ft
- Dimensions:30.79″D x 35.75″W x 69.68″H
- Color:Stainless Steel
- Features:Side freezer, water dispenser, nugget and cube ice maker
Our verdict“Best suited for large households that need a roomy, feature-rich refrigerator without demanding space efficiency.”
Electactic 18.1 Cu. Ft. Side by Side Refrigerator with Freezer, Ice Maker, Water Dispenser, and Digital Temperature Control
This Electactic model combines a practical 18.1 cu.ft. capacity with modern features like an inverter compressor, Total No Frost technology, and digital controls. Its quiet operation at 45dB and energy-efficient design set it apart from more basic models like the Black+Decker, which lacks smart features. The built-in ice maker and water dispenser add convenience, but the absence of smart connectivity could be a missed opportunity for tech enthusiasts seeking app control or remote diagnostics. The LED lighting and slide-out shelves improve usability, though the higher potential energy use from the inverter compressor might be a concern if not genuinely efficient. This pick appeals to buyers wanting a modern, quiet refrigerator that balances efficiency with functionality. It’s less suitable for those seeking smart home integration.Pros:- Inverter compressor for energy efficiency and quiet operation
- Total No Frost technology prevents ice buildup
- Modern LED lighting and slide-out shelves for ease of use
- Includes built-in ice maker and water dispenser
Cons:- Lacks smart connectivity features
- Potentially higher energy use if inverter efficiency is not optimal
Best for: Tech-savvy homeowners wanting a quiet, efficient fridge with modern amenities
Not ideal for: Smart home users looking for app-controlled or connected appliances
- Capacity:18.1 Cu. Ft.
- Technology:Total No Frost
- Compressor:Inverter
- Noise Level:45dB
Our verdict“Ideal for users seeking a quiet, technologically modern refrigerator with essential ice and water functions.”
Kenmore 29 cu. ft. 36″ Wide Side-by-Side Refrigerator – Stainless Steel
This Kenmore model leads in capacity with 29 cu.ft., making it perfect for busy households with extensive storage needs. Its fast cooling and freezing features, combined with NSF-certified filtration, ensure food freshness and high water quality. Compared to the smaller Midea 24.5 cu.ft., it offers significantly more space, but its size demands a larger kitchen footprint. The fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish simplifies cleaning, and the multi-flow air system maintains even temperatures. Yet, this large size might result in higher energy consumption and could be overkill for smaller families. This refrigerator suits those with substantial storage requirements, especially when organized storage and fast cooling are priorities. Its capacity and features come with the tradeoff of increased size and potential energy use.Pros:- Massive 29 cu.ft. capacity for extensive storage
- Fast cooling and freezing features keep food fresh
- Filtered ice and water dispenser for quality hydration
- Fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish for easy cleaning
Cons:- High capacity leads to increased energy consumption
- Size may not fit smaller or compact kitchens
Best for: Large households needing maximum storage, fast cooling, and filtration
Not ideal for: Small kitchens or buyers prioritizing energy efficiency over capacity
- Capacity:29 cu. ft.
- Width:36 inches
- Ice Production:Up to 3 lbs. per day
- Finish:Stainless Steel
Our verdict“Best for large families who need maximum storage and fast cooling in a durable, spacious refrigerator.”
Frigidaire 33-Inch Side-by-Side Refrigerator with 22.2 cu. ft. Capacity, Air Filter, LED Interior Lighting, Ice Maker in Stainless Steel
This Frigidaire model stands out for offering a generous 22.2 cubic feet of storage, making it ideal for larger households needing ample space. Its LED interior lighting enhances visibility, while the built-in air filter helps maintain food freshness—an upgrade over basic models like the BLACK+DECKER French Door, which lacks advanced air filtration. The sleek stainless steel finish adds a modern touch, and the ice maker provides convenience. However, it doesn’t list a specific price or include customer ratings, which can make gauging value challenging. Compared to the Kenmore 20 cu. ft. model, this refrigerator offers more capacity but may also consume slightly more energy. Overall, it’s best suited for households prioritizing capacity and modern features over tight space constraints or budget considerations.
Pros:- Spacious 22.2 cu. ft. capacity for large families
- Energy-efficient LED interior lighting
- Includes ice maker for added convenience
- Sleek stainless steel finish complements modern kitchens
Cons:- No specific price information, making value assessment difficult
- Lack of customer ratings can leave performance uncertainties
Best for: Families who need maximum storage capacity combined with energy-efficient LED lighting and a built-in ice maker.
Not ideal for: Small kitchens with limited space where a more compact or budget-friendly option is preferable.
- Width:33 inches
- Total Capacity:22.2 cu. ft.
- Color:Stainless Steel
- Features:Air Filter, LED Interior Lighting, Ice Maker
Our verdict“This fridge makes the most sense for households seeking ample storage and modern features, accepting a larger footprint and potentially higher energy use.”
Kenmore 20 cu. ft. 36″ Wide Side-by-Side Refrigerator – FPR Stainless Steel
Compared with the Frigidaire model, this Kenmore offers a slightly smaller 20 cu. ft. capacity but compensates with a more compact 36-inch width, fitting better into narrower spaces. Its multi-flow air system promotes even cooling, which can sometimes be a concern in larger models like the Frigidaire, where uneven temperatures may occur. The fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish helps maintain a clean look with minimal effort, and the included water and ice dispensers add everyday convenience. On the downside, the counter-depth design reduces interior space slightly, and the features may result in higher energy consumption. It also lacks the extra capacity of the Frigidaire but provides a more streamlined fit for tighter kitchens. This pick is best for families wanting reliable cooling and organized storage without overextending space.
Pros:- Ample 20 cu. ft. capacity for typical family needs
- Multi-flow air system ensures even cooling
- Fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish stays cleaner
- Includes water and ice dispensers for convenience
Cons:- Counter-depth design limits interior space compared to full-depth units
- Potentially higher energy use due to additional features
Best for: Families seeking a well-organized, stylish refrigerator with good capacity that fits narrower kitchen layouts.
Not ideal for: Homes that require maximum capacity or prefer full-depth models for more interior space.
- Capacity:20 cu. ft.
- Width:36 inches
- Finish:Fingerprint-resistant Stainless Steel
- Type:Side-by-Side Refrigerator
- Energy Star Certified:Yes
- Shelves:Edge-to-Edge Glass Shelves
- Ice Dispenser:Yes
- Water Dispenser:Yes
Our verdict“This fridge suits households wanting efficient cooling and stylish design within a tighter footprint, accepting some capacity tradeoffs.”
How We Picked
I evaluated these refrigerators based on key factors including cooling performance, ice maker reliability, build quality, energy efficiency, capacity, and user-friendly features. I prioritized models that offer consistent performance, durability, and good value for their price range. The ranking reflects a balance between capacity, feature set, and affordability, with premium picks for those seeking advanced options and budget picks for more basic needs. Overall, these selections represent the best combination of usability, longevity, and performance for typical home use.Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Side-by-side Refrigerators With Ice Makers
Choosing the best side-by-side refrigerator with an ice maker involves several important considerations. Beyond basic capacity, it’s vital to assess energy efficiency, exterior dimensions, and additional features like water dispensers or digital controls. Understanding these factors can help you avoid common pitfalls, such as overestimating your space or sacrificing important features for a lower price. This guide covers the core criteria to help you make an informed decision that aligns with your household’s needs and budget.Capacity and Size
Size is often overlooked but crucial. Measure your available space carefully, including door clearance, to ensure the refrigerator fits comfortably. Larger models offer more storage, which is beneficial for big families or those who buy in bulk. However, bigger units tend to consume more energy and may be more expensive upfront. Balancing capacity with your space constraints is key to avoiding disappointment or the need for costly modifications.
Ice Maker Performance and Reliability
An effective ice maker is essential if you frequently entertain or rely on cold drinks. Not all ice makers are equal—some produce ice slowly or are prone to clogging. Consider models with proven durability and easy maintenance. Be aware that higher-capacity ice makers or those with faster production rates might increase energy consumption or noise levels, representing a tradeoff between convenience and efficiency.
Energy Efficiency
Energy-efficient models can significantly reduce operating costs over time. Look for refrigerators with the ENERGY STAR label, which indicates better performance and lower electricity use. Keep in mind that larger or feature-rich units typically consume more energy, so assess your priorities—are you willing to pay more upfront for savings on utility bills? Proper placement and regular maintenance also help keep energy costs in check.
Additional Features
Features like water dispensers, digital temperature controls, LED lighting, and door alarms add convenience but can also increase costs and complexity. Decide which features are essential for your daily routine—if you value quick access to cold water, prioritize models with reliable dispensers. However, be cautious of overly complex controls that might be difficult to operate or maintain over time.
Build Quality and Durability
Investing in a well-built refrigerator pays off in longevity. Look for sturdy door hinges, high-quality interior materials, and good reviews on durability. Cheaper models may save money initially but could require more repairs or replacements down the line. Also, consider the warranty and customer service reputation of the brand to avoid hassles after purchase.
Price and Value
While it’s tempting to choose the lowest-priced option, focusing solely on cost can lead to compromises on capacity, features, or durability. Set a realistic budget based on your household size and needs, then compare models within that range. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront results in better performance and lower maintenance costs over time, providing greater overall value.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if a side-by-side refrigerator with an ice maker will fit in my kitchen?
Before purchasing, measure your available space carefully, including the width, height, and depth, accounting for door clearance. Check the product specifications for exact dimensions and compare them with your measurements. Keep in mind that some models have thicker doors or handles that might require additional clearance. Allowing a few extra inches ensures the refrigerator fits comfortably and can open fully without obstruction.
Are side-by-side refrigerators with ice makers more energy-consuming than other styles?
In general, side-by-side models tend to use more energy than top-freezer or bottom-freezer styles due to their larger size and additional features like ice makers and water dispensers. However, many modern models are designed with energy efficiency in mind, often bearing ENERGY STAR ratings. To minimize costs, choose energy-efficient units and maintain your refrigerator regularly, such as cleaning coils and sealing doors properly.
Is it worth paying more for a refrigerator with a faster ice maker?
Fast ice makers are convenient if you frequently need large amounts of ice, especially during gatherings. However, they often consume more energy and may generate more noise. If ice is only used occasionally, a slower, more efficient model could save money over time. Weigh your typical usage against these tradeoffs to decide if the faster option aligns with your lifestyle.
What’s the best way to maintain the ice maker’s performance?
Regular cleaning of the ice bin and water filter is essential for optimal performance. Some models have self-cleaning features, but manual maintenance is often necessary to prevent mold or mineral buildup. Ensuring your water supply is clean and replacing filters as recommended also helps maintain ice quality and dispenser reliability.
Should I prioritize capacity or energy efficiency when choosing my fridge?
The decision depends on your household size and usage habits. Larger capacity models provide more storage but may increase energy consumption. Conversely, energy-efficient models save on utility bills but might have slightly less space or fewer features. Balancing these factors based on your needs will lead to the best long-term satisfaction.
