The 5 Best Counter Depth Refrigerators for all budgets in 2019 [REVIEW]

Do you need to replace your fridge? Has it bothered you that your fridge sticks out into the kitchen further than you’d like? A counter depth refrigerator may be your best bet.

In this article, we’ll look at the 5 best counter depth refrigerators and find one to streamline the look in your kitchen.

Most people are confused about terminology on refrigerators. Many of us mix up built-in versus counter depth refrigerators. Here is a quick example on how to distinguish the two. Built-in refrigerators are flush with cabinetry and may be installed with custom cabinet panels for completely seamless integration. Price points will also give you a clue on built-in versus counter depth. Built-in refrigerators usually appeal to the luxury market with prices over $5,000. Brands such as Sub Zero, Miele or Thermador dominate this space.

Without breaking the bank, you can now get a counter depth refrigerator that follows the contours of your cabinets and stands proudly in your kitchen.

Overview of Our 5 Best Counter Depth Refrigerators

Rank
Counter-Depth Fridges

Best for Budget Under $1,299
Frigidaire Gallery FGSC2335TF Affordable price point, smudge-proof stainless, LED Lights, 36-inch 22.2 cu.ft.

Overall Best Value Under $2.999
Bosch B36CT80SNS New for 2019 with dual-compressors. Luxury features and design. Great appliance package discounts, Ice Maker with filtered water, Best in class humidity and air circulation for food preservation

Most Reliable Under $2,399
GE Profile PYE22KSKSS Overall super reliable and excellent factory service support, handsfree autofill water dispenser is a hit, 36-inch 22.2 cu. ft.

Innovative Design Under $3,149
Samsung RF22K9381SR Showcase door for most frequented items, Flex Zone converts to freezer or fridge, 36-inch 22 cu. ft.

All Refrigerator and Freezer Under $5,000
Frigidaire Professional FPRU19F8RF 64-inch width, 38 cu. ft., Great style with built-in like trim kit, spacious to handle all of your refrigeration needs.

How to Avoid Common Mistakes When Purchasing a Counter Depth Refrigerator

Start by measuring your space and being aware of your dimensions (although this sounds straightforward, the problems begin here).

Remember, kitchen cabinet depths are not standard. They can be anywhere from 24" to 26 1/2" deep. When measuring, factor in the base cabinet, the backsplash thickness, and countertop bullnose, etc.

The best counter depth refrigerators do not come in a standard depth as the name might imply. The main body (or as we call it the box) is typically 24" to 25" deep but in your overall dimensions factor in the door thickness and handle depth. Some models may also require a small air gap behind the unit.

Measure the height and add the hinge height as well.

Remember counter depth fridges are not built-in and you cannot make them flush to cabinets as the hinges will not have space to turn. Also, you cannot install a custom panel on a counter depth fridge.

1) Best Budget Counter Depth Refrigerator, Frigidaire Gallery

Frigidaire Gallery FGSC2335TF 36-inch 22.2 Cu. Ft. CounterDepth Side by Side Refrigerator – Stainless Steel under $1,299

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Why we like it:
An excellent price point for a counter depth refrigerator.

Features:

• Smudge-Proof Stainless Steel – Resists fingerprints for easy maintenance.
• Fairly spacious with 22.2 cu. ft. capacity
• LED Lighting
• Adjustable Shelves

2) Overall the Best Value in Counter Depth Refrigerators, Bosch

Bosch B36CT80SNS 800 Series 36" Counter Depth Refrigerator – Stainless Steel, Energy Star under $2,999

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Why we like it:
Bosch makes high-quality appliances. This counter depth refrigerator is no exception, and it is listed with a pretty high price tag at $2,784. However, this unit usually has a $200 exclusive savings rebate in our store at Designer Appliances. On top of it, during promotional periods you will get an additional 10%-15% discount on a Bosch package that includes this refrigerator. All in all, a great Bosch counter depth fridge on or around $2,000 is an excellent deal.

Features:

• Ice Maker w Filtered Water, LED Lights
• Humidity controlled crisper drawers help keep food fresher longer
• Dual compressor system provides even temperatures and minimizes odor transfer
• VitaFreshPro adds extra controls to balance temperature and humidity
• SuperCool generates greater cold reserves so that freshly stored food can be rapidly chilled
• SuperFreezing protects frozen food from defrosting when loading the freezer with new items

The new Bosch dual-compressor refrigerators share the same internals. However, Bosch offers different design sytles to match your kitchen. Black stainless steel finish, 4-door versions with recessed handles, and professional handle versions (to match all-Thermador kitchens) are available in the lineup.

3) Most Reliable Counter Depth Refrigerator, GE Profile

GE Profile PYE22KSKSS 36" 22.2 cu. ft. Counter-Depth French Door Refrigerator under $2,399

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Why we like it:
GE Profile is overall a reliable brand with great factory service. This particular fridge has been performing reliably for our customers for many years. Typical complaints we get revolve around occasional rusting which indicates that the cleaning crew in the household used harsh chemicals unbeknown to the homeowner. Occasional computer board issues that are covered under the warranty and modular replacement take care of the problem in a jiffy. Door alignment issues sometimes creep up as it is not intuitive for DIY self-installers that doors are adjustable. We recommend GE Profile without reservations.

Features:

• Hands-free autofill dispenser – lets you walk away while your container automatically fills with filtered water
• Full width, electronic temperature-controlled deli and vegetable drawers
• Option to incorporate a second ice maker in the freezer
• TwinChill evaporators separate climates in the fresh food and freezer sections help keep foods fresh
• LED lighting

4) Most Innovative Counter Depth Fridge, Samsung

Samsung RF22K9381SR 36" 22 cu. ft. 4 Door Flex Food Showcase Counter Depth Refrigerator under $3,149

Why we like it:
This Samsung refrigerator will stand out in your kitchen. You can be assured that you will get many compliments for choosing this fridge. Their Flex Zone compartment is a hit, and it converts one of the quadrants into a freezer or a fridge on demand. Thanks to Samsung’s advanced technology your food will stay fresh longer in this model.

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Features:

• 36" 22 cu. ft. 4 Door Refrigerator – Flex Zone (converts portion of the freezer to the fridge when needed)
• Food Showcase with Metal Cooling Displays on the go items front and center (door in door)
• Premium cooling system features 3 evaporators for ultimate freshness
• Ice Master produces up to 5 lbs. of ice per day and stores up to 2.9 lbs. of ice
• High Efficiency LED Lighting
• The premium stainless steel exterior has a special coating that makes your fridge look shiny clean every day

5) Best Value for Refrigerator and Freezer Columns

Frigidaire Professional Refrigerator and Freezer Set, FPFU19F8RF and FPRU19F8RF under $5,000

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Why we like it:
Best price point in the market for a high-end, pro-style extra large 64" refrigerator and freezer columns. A smudge-proof stainless steel door is easy to clean and presents well. This set comes fully loaded with modern amenities such as an internal ice maker, LED lights, adjustable shelves. Use the innovative trim for the built-in look.

Features:

• 32" 19 cu. ft. All Refrigerator, Counter Depth for Seamless Finish
• 32" 19 cu. ft. All Freezer with Ice Maker
• PureAir Filtration keeps products tasting fresh
• 32" W x 26-1/2" D x 71-3/8" H Each Unit (25 1/4" cabinet depth)