Should I Get a Counter-Depth or Standard-Depth Refrigerator?
You'll want a standard-depth refrigerator if you need a fridge that holds a lot of food and is generally less expensive. Select a counter-depth fridge if you don't mind sacrificing square footage for a sleek, built-in look.
Key Takeaways
If you're selecting a new fridge for your kitchen, you'll need to decide if you'd prefer a counter-depth or standard-depth refrigerator.
- Counter-depth fridges aren't as deep and align with the cabinets for a sleek look. However, you're sacrificing square footage, so it's not ideal if you have a large family or you cook a lot.
- A standard-fridge refrigerator will stick out past the countertops, but they hold more food and are typically less expensive.
What's the Difference Between a Counter-Depth and a Standard-Depth Refrigerator?
A counter-depth refrigerator ranges in depth from 24-30 inches and is meant to align with the countertops. A standard-depth refrigerator ranges in depth from 30-36 inches and will extend beyond the countertops.
If you're looking for a sleek, built-in look, counter-depth refrigerators are an ideal choice. However, if you cook a lot or have a large family, you're going to sacrifice square footage. A standard-depth refrigerator is probably a better selection. Now, we'll get into greater detail about the differences between the two, so that you can make the best decision for your needs.
More Info
Learn how to find the right refrigerator size.
Choose between a side-by-side or a French door refrigerator.
Find out what the temperature of your fridge and freezer should be.
Counter-Depth Refrigerators
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 match your cabinets, which adds a seamless, high-design aesthetic.
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.
Let's Get Started
Whichever refrigerator you choose, Lowe's has hundreds of counter-depth and standard-depth fridges to suit every space and price point. Shop online or visit your local Lowe's store. We can also remove the old refrigerator and install the new one.
Frequently Asked Questions
We have the answers to some of your most frequently asked questions.
What’s the Difference in Size and How Will It Affect My Kitchen Fit?
Counter-depth fridges are not as deep as standard refrigerators, so they have a sleek built-in look. They're typically between 24–30 inches deep and they sit nearly flush with cabinets and countertops.
Standard-depth refrigerators are deeper and will stick out past the kitchen countertop, but they hold more food. They're typically between 30–36 inches deep.
How Do Storage Capacity and Practicality Compare?
People are often concerned that they'll be losing usable space if they go with a counter-depth refrigerator. If you frequently entertain or have a big family, then a standard-depth refrigerator is probably a better fit for your household. Counter-depth refrigerators work well for smaller families or for those that don't cook much and want a built-in look.
Does One Refrigerator Type Cost More Than the Other? Is It Worth It?
Standard-depth refrigerators typically hold more food and are less expensive than counter-depth refrigerators. Counter-depth refrigerators have a more sleek, built-in design, so the price point tends to be higher.