What Are the Best Small Counter Depth Refrigerators [In 2025]
Counter depth refrigerators offer a sleek, built-in look for modern kitchens. These appliances combine style with functionality, fitting flush with cabinetry while providing ample storage space.
Ideal for homeowners seeking a streamlined kitchen aesthetic, counter depth fridges come in various sizes and configurations. Key factors include capacity, energy efficiency, and special features.
Let’s compare five top models to help you find the perfect fit for your kitchen.
Table of Contents
Quick Comparison: Counter depth refrigerators
Product | Features | Best For | CTA |
---|---|---|---|
LG 24 Cu. Ft. French Door | Stainless steel Zero clearance design |
Large capacity storage | Check Price |
Kenmore 17.5 Cu. Ft. French Door | Fingerprint-resistant finish Energy Star certified |
Efficient cooling | Check Price |
Sharp 11.5 Cu. Ft. Bottom-Freezer | Slim design Multi Air Flow |
Compact spaces | Check Price |
LG 26 Cu. Ft. Smart Refrigerator | Dual ice makers Door Cooling+ |
Smart home integration | Check Price |
LG 27 Cu. Ft. French Door | Internal water dispenser ThinQ technology |
Large families | Check Price |
Our Top 5 Counter depth refrigerators
We selected five models for different needs and budgets, prioritizing feature quality, performance, fit/compatibility, reliability, and value.
LG 24 Cu. Ft. French Door
Overview
This LG model offers spacious storage capacity in a counter-depth design. Its stainless steel finish and French door style provide a modern look.
The zero clearance design allows for seamless integration with your kitchen cabinetry, maximizing space efficiency.
Specs
→ 24 cu. ft. capacity
→ Stainless steel finish
→ French door configuration
→ Zero clearance design
→ Counter-depth profile
Pros
👍 Large storage capacity
👍 Sleek stainless steel exterior
👍 Space-saving counter-depth design
👍 French door style for easy access
👍 Zero clearance for seamless look
Cons
👎 May be pricier than standard models
👎 Limited color options
👎 Potential for fingerprint smudges
Customer Experience
Customers appreciate the spacious interior and sleek design. The counter-depth profile receives praise for its built-in appearance.
Best For
Ideal for those seeking maximum storage in a stylish, space-saving design.
Kenmore 17.5 Cu. Ft. French Door
Overview
This Kenmore refrigerator combines efficiency with style. Its fingerprint-resistant finish and Energy Star certification make it practical for busy households.
The French door design and adjustable shelving offer flexible storage options for various food items.
Specs
→ 17.5 cu. ft. capacity
→ Fingerprint-resistant stainless steel
→ Energy Star certified
→ Built-in ice maker
→ Quiet inverter compressor
Pros
👍 Energy-efficient operation
👍 Fingerprint-resistant exterior
👍 Quiet compressor technology
👍 Flexible storage options
👍 Built-in ice maker included
Cons
👎 Smaller capacity than some models
👎 Limited color options
👎 Potential cooling issues reported
Customer Experience
Users praise the quiet operation and fingerprint-resistant finish. Some customers note the vegetable compartment may be small for their needs.
Best For
Perfect for energy-conscious households seeking a stylish, low-maintenance refrigerator.
Sharp 11.5 Cu. Ft. Bottom-Freezer
Overview
This Sharp refrigerator is ideal for apartments or small kitchens. Its slim design and bottom freezer configuration maximize space efficiency.
Features like the Multi Air Flow system and Fresh Converter Drawer enhance food preservation and storage flexibility.
Specs
→ 11.5 cu. ft. capacity
→ 24-inch width
→ Bottom freezer design
→ Multi Air Flow system
→ Fresh Converter Drawer
Pros
👍 Compact size for small spaces
👍 Bottom freezer for easy access
👍 Multi Air Flow for even cooling
👍 Versatile Fresh Converter Drawer
👍 Removable wine rack included
Cons
👎 Limited capacity for larger households
👎 May lack advanced features
👎 Higher price per cubic foot
Customer Experience
Users appreciate the refrigerator’s compact size and efficient use of space. The bottom freezer design receives positive feedback for accessibility.
Best For
Perfect for small kitchens, apartments, or as a secondary refrigerator.
LG 26 Cu. Ft. Smart Refrigerator
Overview
This LG smart refrigerator offers advanced features in a counter-depth design. Dual ice makers and Door Cooling+ technology enhance convenience and performance.
The large capacity and smart capabilities make it suitable for tech-savvy households with high storage needs.
Specs
→ 26 cu. ft. capacity
→ Dual ice makers
→ Door Cooling+ technology
→ Smart features
→ PrintProof stainless steel finish
Pros
👍 Large storage capacity
👍 Dual ice makers for convenience
→ Door Cooling+ for even temperatures
👍 Smart home integration
👍 Fingerprint-resistant finish
Cons
👎 Higher price point
👎 May be too large for some kitchens
👎 Complex features may overwhelm some users
Customer Experience
Customers love the spacious interior and dual ice makers. The smart features receive praise for adding convenience to daily use.
Best For
Ideal for large families and tech enthusiasts seeking advanced features.
LG 27 Cu. Ft. French Door
Overview
This LG model boasts the largest counter-depth capacity available. Its sleek design and internal water dispenser offer both style and functionality.
ThinQ technology and energy-efficient features make it a smart choice for modern, eco-conscious households.
Specs
→ 27 cu. ft. capacity
→ Internal water dispenser
→ ThinQ technology
→ PrintProof stainless steel finish
→ Energy Star certified
Pros
👍 Largest counter-depth capacity
👍 Sleek internal water dispenser
👍 Smart home integration
👍 Energy-efficient operation
👍 Fingerprint-resistant exterior
Cons
👎 Premium price point
👎 May be too large for some kitchens
👎 Internal dispenser requires door opening
Customer Experience
Users praise the spacious interior and smart features. Some note the internal water dispenser takes getting used to compared to external models.
Best For
Perfect for large families needing maximum storage in a counter-depth design.
Buying Guide: Counter depth refrigerators
Measuring Your Space
Accurate measurements are crucial for counter depth refrigerators. Measure the width, height, and depth of your available space, including any overhead cabinets or adjacent walls.
Capacity Considerations
Counter depth models typically offer less interior space than standard depth refrigerators. Consider your household size and shopping habits when choosing capacity.
Door Configurations
French door, side-by-side, and bottom freezer designs are common in counter depth models. Each offers different advantages in terms of accessibility and organization.
Energy Efficiency
Look for Energy Star certified models to ensure lower energy consumption. This can lead to significant savings on utility bills over time.
Special Features
Consider features like adjustable shelving, temperature-controlled drawers, and smart capabilities. These can enhance convenience and food preservation but may impact the price.
FAQs: Counter depth refrigerators
What is the difference between counter depth and standard depth refrigerators?
Counter depth refrigerators are shallower, typically protruding only slightly past countertops for a built-in look. Standard depth models are deeper, offering more interior space but extending further into the room.
Do counter depth refrigerators have less storage space?
Generally, yes. Counter depth models sacrifice some interior space to achieve their slimmer profile, but manufacturers often compensate with efficient interior designs.
Are counter depth refrigerators more expensive?
Counter depth refrigerators tend to be pricier than standard depth models of similar capacity due to their specialized design and aesthetic appeal.
Can I install a counter depth refrigerator myself?
While possible, professional installation is recommended to ensure proper fit, leveling, and connection to water lines for models with ice makers or water dispensers.
Do all counter depth refrigerators come with water and ice dispensers?
No, not all models include these features. Some offer internal water dispensers or ice makers, while others omit them entirely to maximize interior space.
How much do counter depth refrigerators typically stick out past countertops?
Most counter depth refrigerators protrude about 2-4 inches past standard countertop depth, including handles. This can vary slightly between models.
Final Verdict: Counter depth refrigerators
For those seeking maximum capacity, the LG 27 Cu. Ft. model offers unparalleled storage. Budget-conscious buyers might prefer the Kenmore 17.5 Cu. Ft. for its efficiency and value.