What's a Counter-Depth Fridge?
A counter-depth fridge sits flush with your kitchen cabinets, giving the appliance a sleek and integrated appearance. This type of refrigerator typically has a depth of 24 inches to 30 inches, which is significantly shallower than a standard-depth refrigerator.
Space and Storage
A counter-depth refrigerator’s reduced size means there’s less room for storage, but it also means it won’t protrude into your kitchen space. This is important if you have a small kitchen or want a seamless look.
Appearance
Counter-depth refrigerators are available in all fridge styles, including French door, side-by-side, bottom-freezer, top-freezer and mini-fridge configurations. Some counter-depth refrigerators come with panels that you can match to your cabinets, which adds a high-design touch to your kitchen.
Price
Counter-depth refrigerators come in a range of price points, though these models tend to be more expensive than their standard-depth counterparts. If you’re on a budget, keep this in mind.
What's a Standard-Depth Refrigerator?
A standard-depth refrigerator is a more traditional size, with a depth of 30 inches to 36 inches or more. This refrigerator type offers more interior storage space than a counter-depth refrigerator, which is important if you have a large family or entertain often. If you prioritize storage space and flexibility, a standard-depth refrigerator may be the better choice.
Space and Storage
If you buy food in bulk and your refrigerator is always packed, opt for a standard-depth refrigerator. The larger interior also means you’ll have room for bigger food items, like turkeys, roasts or watermelons. It has more space for drawers, shelves and wine racks, too. In kitchens where room is less of a concern, a standard-depth refrigerator won’t feel like it’s taking up too much usable space.
Appearance
Standard-depth refrigerators are available in all the same styles as counter-depth refrigerators, including French-door, side-by-side, bottom-freezer, top-freezer and mini-fridge configurations.
Price
You’ll also find standard-depth refrigerators available at a range of price points, but they’re typically less expensive than counter-depth models.
Consider these factors when choosing between a counter-depth and standard-depth refrigerator, and check out our refrigerator buying guide for more help shopping.
