Refrigerator Buying Guide 2026: How to Choose
A refrigerator helps keep your ingredients fresh, your leftovers ready to be reinvented and everything where you need it whenever creativity strikes. When it’s time to buy a new refrigerator, it’s important to find the right one. Use this refrigerator buying guide to brush up on the new technologies, features and styles to help you buy a refrigerator that checks all the boxes.
What to look for in a refrigerator
When shopping for a new refrigerator, what you prioritize depends on the needs of your home and lifestyle. In general, these are some things to consider as you shop:
Refrigerator Configuration
Dimensions and Size
Capacity and Storage
Features
Color and Finish
The technologies and features used to help keep your food fresh are often shared between different refrigerator configurations and layouts. For example, you can find the ExtendFresh™ Temperature Management System across multiple KitchenAid® refrigerator configurations. For this reason, it can be a good idea to start by choosing the best refrigerator configuration for you, and then narrow your search to a model with the right features.
1. Choose your refrigerator configuration
From space-saving bottom-mount freezer refrigerators to contemporary French door styles or classic side-by-side models, each configuration offers something a little different. Make sure you know the differences and the benefits of each type of refrigerator. Then, choose the one that's best for the way you create.
Side-by-side refrigerators
Side-by-side refrigerators feature a full-height freezer compartment next to a full-height refrigerator compartment, allowing you to keep the important freezer and refrigerator items at eye level and within easy reach. These models often have more freezer space than other configurations, so they may be a good choice if you like to stock up on frozen ingredients.
Unlike top- and bottom-freezer models, many side-by-side refrigerators have in-door or external ice and water dispensers, as well as other in-demand features such as adjustable shelves and door bins to help you keep everything organized.
French door refrigerators
French door refrigerators have freezer space below and refrigerator space on top with two doors that open independently. This configuration is popular because of its pantry-like layout and specialized storage compartments that help keep contents visible so you can quickly locate items. External ice and water dispensers are common, and sometimes you’ll find a second ice maker in the freezer.
Compared to other configurations, French door refrigerators tend to have more high-end features and innovations like independent, humidity-controlled drawers, advanced cooling systems and premium shelf and drawer finishes.
Counter-depth refrigerators
Available in side-by-side and French door configurations, counter-depth refrigerators shave off a few inches of depth so they are nearly flush with cabinetry. This style offers a built-in look and often allows more room to move in your kitchen. This can result in slightly less interior capacity but is a good option if you have a smaller kitchen or just want a more open, streamlined workspace.
Built-in refrigerators
Many built-in refrigerators can match the finish and style of surrounding cabinets with a panel-ready design and reduced depth that aligns with cabinetry. This look offers more creative possibilities with the opportunity to customize the exterior look of the refrigerator. It also enables seamless integration into surrounding cabinets.
Built-in refrigerators are often wider than standard models to make up for space lost in depth, measuring up to around 48 inches wide. They are usually available in bottom-freezer, side-by-side and French door models. Keep in mind that professional installation is usually recommended for these high-end refrigerators that may require custom cabinetry, which isn’t included.
Top-freezer and bottom-freezer refrigerators
Refrigerators with a freezer on top or bottom are a classic design and have plenty of potential to enhance your creative process. These models are often the entry price point and can offer a streamlined set of features. Expect a little less space inside generally, but plenty of room for wide items compared to a side-by-side refrigerator.
Some models feature interior water and ice dispensers, but if an ice maker is not already included, one can sometimes be installed separately, depending on the model. If you’re working with limited space, small-space refrigerators are usually top- or bottom-freezer models.
Keep in mind that bottom-freezer refrigerators tend to offer a little more space and more features than top-freezer models. Since the refrigerator section often gets used more than the freezer, many people prefer to keep those items at eye level in a bottom-freezer refrigerator.
2. Determine the right refrigerator dimensions
Your new refrigerator should fit your style and blend into your kitchen seamlessly, so choosing a refrigerator with the right dimensions to fit your space is crucial. Before committing to a model, make sure you have the measurements of where it will be placed.
Take height, width and depth measurements of the cutout where the refrigerator will stand and compare them to the product's listed dimensions. Standard refrigerators sit at about 24-40 inches wide, 61 to 72 inches tall and 28 to 35 inches deep, but dimensions can vary by style.
Make sure to leave space on all sides of the refrigerator to accommodate cords and hoses and provide adequate airflow: at least 1/2 inch on the sides and top of the refrigerator and at least 1 full inch behind.
Pay attention to a refrigerator's depth measurements with the door closed and open to ensure space for a full door swing out without hitting cabinets, walls or an island.
Measure the doorways and pathways that the refrigerator will travel on its way to the kitchen before installation.
3. Purchase a refrigerator with adequate capacity and storage
When choosing the right refrigerator for your household, you’ll want to consider not just the space in your kitchen, how often you entertain and the number of people you cook for, but your cooking and shopping preferences, as well.
Think about what you’re likely to keep stocked and whether you prefer to have an array of ingredients for impromptu recipes, or if you’re more likely to plan out meals ahead of time and instead prefer to keep a combination of staples and fresh ingredients stocked. The right capacity refrigerator can also make it easier to keep your ingredients organized and fresh or perishable items within line of sight, so keep this in mind as you browse.
If you find yourself struggling to fit fresh ingredients in your current refrigerator, consider installing an undercounter or wine refrigerator for additional storage capacity. Or, consider a large capacity refrigerator that offers up to 31+ cubic feet of storage space. At 31 cu. ft., KitchenAid brand’s largest capacity French Door refrigerator makes room for every farmer's market haul and brings convenience with customizable storage spaces for your unique ingredients. “It’s family-sized, to provide extra space, more ice and flexible organization to keep up with all your family needs,” says Joao Wiese, Whirlpool Product Marketing Senior Manager.
Here are a few more things to consider:
How many people are in your home and how often do you cook during the week?
How much space is available in your kitchen?
What items do you usually keep in your freezer? Do you cook in batches or freeze food for later? If so, you’ll want enough freezer capacity for ample storage.
4. Pick refrigerator features that match how you create
Your culinary style is unique, so it’s important to keep an eye out for the refrigerator features that complement the way you create in the kitchen. Learn more about possible refrigerator features found on select models below to find what fits your style best.
Dual Evaporators: These refrigerators have separate cooling systems for the freezer and refrigerator compartments that help maintain ideal temperature and humidity in these two unique environments. Check out the Preserva® Food Care System by KitchenAid brand, which also features the FreshFlow™ Air Filter to help minimize odors.
Produce preservation: Some refrigerators have crisper drawers and technology that absorbs ethylene gas emitted by many fruits and vegetables, causing them to over ripen. By removing ethylene, KitchenAid® refrigerators with the Produce Preserver help extend the freshness of your produce. Browse KitchenAid® refrigerators with the Produce Preserver.
LED lighting: LED lighting uses less energy than incandescent bulbs and adds bright light for a premium feel. Multiple lights are placed throughout the refrigerator and freezer, making it easy to find items at a glance. Browse KitchenAid® refrigerators with LED Lighting.
Configurable shelves and drawers: With adjustable, customizable storage spaces, you can create a storage system unique to you and your creation process. Look for features like retractable or slide-away shelving, undershelf storage and prep zones, and drawers you can access from the outside of the refrigerator, like the Soft-Close Drawers on this multi-door KitchenAid® refrigerator.
Food prep zones: You can find refrigerators that feature specialized zones that accommodate trays and platters, making it easy to keep everything from charcuterie boards to hors d’oeuvres ready to serve. The Wood-Look Sliding Storage Tray on select KitchenAid® refrigerators keeps serving platters and ingredients easily accessible. Plus, the tray removes fully for easy cleaning.
Ice production: Whether you’re grabbing a cold drink or loading up on ice for a night of entertaining, your refrigerator’s ice maker should keep pace. Some models—like this KitchenAid® French door refrigerator—feature Large Capacity Ice Production that delivers over 3.5 lbs. of filtered ice created per day.
Flexible cooling: Some ingredients benefit from a quick burst of cooling to get them ready to serve. Instead of changing the overall temperature, select refrigerators offer features that temporarily chill the interior right when you need it. Max Cool on select KitchenAid® refrigerators drops the refrigerator temperature to its coldest level within one hour to help chill groceries, beverages and ingredients for serving.
- Personalization: Your refrigerator’s cooling features support everything you create in the kitchen, while its finish and accents can elevate the look and feel of your space to enhance your experience. Consider a refrigerator you can modify to suit your space, like select KitchenAid® models that are designed to be personalized with a curated palette of exterior finishes and mixed metal hardware.
PRESERVA® FOOD CARE SYSTEM
Help keep food fresh longer
Select KitchenAid® refrigerators with the Preserva® Food Care System have two independent cooling systems that provide a dedicated refrigeration unit to help keep food fresh longer, and a separate system for frozen food.
5. Buy a refrigerator that’s your style
For a refrigerator that’s your style outside and in, consider all the possibilities for both exterior and interior finishes. White, black and stainless steel are standard color options. You might also upgrade to a fingerprint-resistant exterior finish, which is available on many refrigerators today. Look for KitchenAid® refrigerators featuring the PrintShield® Finish for a smudge-resistant exterior that takes some of the worry out of keeping a working kitchen beautiful.
For a seamless look, consider a built-in refrigerator that fits flush with cabinets and usually comes in a stainless steel, black stainless steel or a panel-ready exterior that lets you customize it to match your kitchen cabinets. Explore new and upcoming refrigerator trends, including innovative refrigerator styles and features.
Tips for buying a refrigerator
Some additional best practices—aside from comparing features, fit and finishes—can help you find the right refrigerator for your kitchen. See the buying tips below for more considerations.
Think about what you like or don’t like about your old or current refrigerator. Are there features you wish you had? Is the layout functional and easy to use? Consider these preferences as you plan your next purchase.
Familiarize yourself with the warranty of each refrigerator you’re considering. For large appliances like a refrigerator, it may be worth purchasing an extended warranty.
The possibilities a new refrigerator offers are exciting, but don’t forget to plan for the disposal of your old refrigerator. You may be able to recycle it through services your city offers, or a professional installer may offer to dispose of it on your behalf. KitchenAid brand offers haul away services when you purchase a new KitchenAid® refrigerator through the KitchenAid® website.
When is the best time to buy a refrigerator?
Whether you’re in the market for an upgrade or remodeling your kitchen for a new look and feel, waiting for sales events to buy your new refrigerator may be worth considering. Deals are often offered on major holidays, such as Labor Day or Memorial Day. Seasonally, refrigerator prices may dip lower during the summer and are typically at their lowest just after Thanksgiving.
