COUNTER-DEPTH VS. STANDARD-DEPTH: WHICH REFRIGERATOR IS RIGHT FOR YOU?
Counter-depth fridges are shallower to achieve a built-in appearance while standard fridges generally offer more capacity. Either way, your refrigerator is essential to storing all your fresh ingredients. The right refrigerator can open the doors to reimagining your every meal. Keep reading to find out which one is right for you.
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN COUNTER-DEPTH AND STANDARD-DEPTH REFRIGERATORS?
The difference between counter-depth vs. standard-depth refrigerators is depth dimension. Counter-depth fridges fit nearly flush with your cabinetry, but measure smaller in depth than standard size fridges. For certain counter-depth models, a larger width and height make up for some lost storage.
Both types of refrigerators offer a collection of useful features to help keep your food fresh, as well as options for a water filtration system, different style finishes and sought-after configurations. Read more about the types of refrigerators available in the KitchenAid brand collection.
WHAT IS A COUNTER-DEPTH REFRIGERATOR?
Most counter-depth refrigerators are around 24-30 inches deep. While shallower than a standard size fridge, it offers a seamless configuration between your kitchen cabinets, without having to remodel.
WHAT IS THE STANDARD KITCHEN COUNTERTOP DEPTH?
Kitchen counters typically have a standard depth of about 24 to 25 inches. Counter-depth refrigerators usually also have the same depth, so they don’t protrude past the countertop.
WHAT ARE COUNTER-DEPTH REFRIGERATOR DIMENSIONS?
A regular counter-depth refrigerator usually measures around 24 to 30 inches in depth, not counting the handles. To compensate for the reduced depth without sacrificing capacity, counter-depth refrigerator dimensions tend to be wider (around 36 inches) and taller than standard refrigerators. You can also expect a counter-depth refrigerator to have a capacity of anywhere from 15 to 25 cubic feet, with an average of around 22 cubic feet.
Keep in mind that there are different configurations, such as side-by-side and French door. Your refrigerator’s configuration may make a difference in its dimensions and capacity.
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN COUNTER-DEPTH AND BUILT-IN REFRIGERATORS?
Built-in refrigerators are a style of installation while counter-depth refrigerators refer to the front to back dimensions. You can find counter-depth refrigerators in both built-in and freestanding installation styles. Built-in refrigerators seamlessly integrate with surrounding counters and cupboards, providing a stylish and cohesive look in your kitchen.
COUNTER-DEPTH REFRIGERATOR BENEFITS
- Built-in look: A counter-depth refrigerator can give your kitchen a built-in look with an integration that’s nearly flush with your cabinetry and countertops.
- More room: Make room for more making with a space-saving design that can help you move freely around the kitchen and even increase your workspace.
- Easy access: A shallower fridge helps you easily see your food, with fewer items getting lost in the back.
SHOP COUNTER-DEPTH REFRIGERATORS FROM KITCHENAID BRAND
Available in both side-by-side and French door configurations, counter-depth refrigerators from KitchenAid brand save you space and work with your kitchen layout and design.
WHAT IS A STANDARD-DEPTH REFRIGERATOR?
Most standard-depth refrigerators are between 31-36 inches deep. A standard or full-size refrigerator may stick out half a foot or more from the edge of your countertop due to its deeper storage proportion.
WHAT ARE STANDARD-DEPTH REFRIGERATOR DIMENSIONS?
Refrigerator dimensions may vary based on the configuration. Standard refrigerator dimensions range from 28¾ to 39¾ inches wide, 61¾ to 71¼ inches tall and 28¾ to 34⅝ inches deep, with depth extending to 45 inches with the refrigerator door fully ajar. Typically, these refrigerators have 20 to 25 cu. ft. of capacity.
When examining a counter-depth vs. standard-depth fridge, capacity is going to be the main difference. The additional space in a standard-depth refrigerator may make it ideal for larger kitchens and hefty grocery hauls to support your culinary endeavors.
Standard-Depth Refrigerator Benefits
- More depth: A standard-depth refrigerator has a larger dimension from front to back than a counter-depth fridge, giving you more space to organize groceries.
- Traditional layout: Achieve a more traditional kitchen aesthetic with a standard-depth refrigerator.
- Available in larger capacities: Suited for large households and passionate makers, a standard-depth refrigerator has plenty of space to store ingredients in both the fridge and freezer.
SHOP STANDARD-DEPTH REFRIGERATORS FROM KITCHENAID BRAND
Explore KitchenAid® refrigerators with features on select models like the Preserva® Food Care System, which uses two independent cooling systems to help keep food fresh longer. Enjoy under-shelf LED lighting and soft-close drawers on select models, as well.
COUNTER-DEPTH VS. STANDARD-DEPTH FRIDGE CAPACITY
When comparing a counter-depth refrigerator vs. standard dimensions, consider what you value most in terms of storage and design. Depending on the model, a counter-depth fridge may have a bit less room inside, but learning how to organize your refrigerator can help you make the most of your space.
A counter-depth fridge might be the perfect solution to creating a more open workspace in your kitchen or, if you keep your fridge fully stocked, a larger capacity standard-depth refrigerator might be the way to go. You’ll have a bit more food storage space, and if you’re someone who loves to entertain, has a big household or just enjoys having a variety of ingredients on hand, you’ll appreciate the added depth of a standard fridge.
COUNTER-DEPTH VS. STANDARD-DEPTH FRIDGE FEATURES
You can find many of the same features on both counter-depth and standard-depth refrigerators. Keep in mind that this is not an exhaustive list, as there are a variety of features available on both counter-depth and standard-depth refrigerators from KitchenAid brand. Read on to learn more about the available features of both styles.
Exterior Ice and Water Dispenser: Provides quick and easy access to chilled water and ice.
Configurable Shelves and Drawers: Allows you to accommodate dishes of different sizes and configure your refrigerator in a way that fits your needs.
LED Lighting: Uses less energy than incandescent bulbs. Multiple lights are purposefully placed throughout the refrigerator and freezer, making it easy to find items at a glance.
Preserva®Food Care System: Two independent cooling systems provide a dedicated refrigeration unit to help keep food fresh longer, with a separate system for frozen food.
FreshFlow™ Air Filter: Minimizes odors.
PrintShield™ Finish: Resists smudges and fingerprints. The specialized coating for stainless steel is easy to clean with water and a soft cloth, so you can spend more time cooking and less time cleaning up.
Sabbath Mode (Star-K Certified): Disables the refrigerator's automatic lights and alarm tones for use on the Sabbath and other religious observations.
- FreshChill™ Temperature-Controlled Full-Width Pantry: Lets you choose the optimal temperature for what you're storing with custom settings for Fish & Meat, Deli & Cheese and Wine.
EXPLORE KITCHENAID® REFRIGERATORS
The refrigerator is the center of the kitchen. It’s one of the most functional and highly-used appliances in your entire household. Once you’ve decided on measurements, configuration and exterior finish, discovering features that align with your lifestyle will be an added bonus to help kickstart your culinary endeavors. Read the refrigerator buying guide for more helpful tips and information on how to pick just the right refrigerator for your kitchen.
