If you’re exploring the 9 best side-by-side refrigerators with ice and water in 2026, I recommend models like LG, Kenmore, Frigidaire, Forno Moena, Antarctic Star, and Salerno. These offer spacious capacity, advanced cooling tech, external dispensers, and sleek designs, perfect for modern kitchens. Each has unique features like smart systems or energy efficiency. If you’re curious about which one might suit your needs best, keep going to find out more about these top picks.
Key Takeaways
- Top models like LG and Kenmore offer reliable side-by-side refrigerators with ice and water dispensers in 2026.
- Modern units feature external water and ice dispensers for added convenience and user-friendly controls.
- Energy-efficient options with advanced cooling technology help maintain food freshness while reducing power consumption.
- Consider capacity, dimensions, and finish to ensure the refrigerator fits your space and style preferences.
- Features like multi-flow air systems, humidity-controlled crispers, and smart connectivity enhance food preservation and convenience.
| LG French Door Refrigerator with Water Dispenser |  | Best Overall | Capacity: 21.8 cu.ft. | Water Dispenser: Integrated in French door | Ice Maker: Internal with dispenser | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Kenmore 36″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Ice Dispenser |  | Best for Modern Design | Capacity: 20 cu.ft. | Water Dispenser: External on door | Ice Maker: Factory-installed, cubed/crushed | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| LG 36-Inch Smart French Door Refrigerator |  | Tech-Forward Choice | Capacity: 28 cu.ft. | Water Dispenser: External on door | Ice Maker: External ice dispenser, automatic | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Forno Moena 36″ French Door Refrigerator with Ice |  | Premium Style & Functionality | Capacity: 19.2 cu.ft. | Water Dispenser: External with ice | Ice Maker: Automatic ice maker | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Frigidaire Gallery 22.3 cu ft Side-by-Side Refrigerator |  | Best Space-Saving | Capacity: 22.3 cu.ft. | Water Dispenser: External on door | Ice Maker: Dispenser includes ice | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Antarctic Star 20 Cu Ft French Door Refrigerator |  | Large Capacity Value | Capacity: 20 cu.ft. | Water Dispenser: External water dispenser | Ice Maker: Automatic ice maker | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Antarctic Star 20 Cu Ft French Door Refrigerator | | Reliable Budget Option | Capacity: 20.0 cu.ft. | Water Dispenser: External ice and water | Ice Maker: Ice maker included | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Forno Salerno 36″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Ice |  | Classic Performance | Capacity: 19.2 cu.ft. | Water Dispenser: External on door | Ice Maker: Ice maker with dispenser | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Kenmore 36″ French Door Refrigerator with Freezer |  | Family-Friendly Efficiency | Capacity: 28.6 cu.ft. | Water Dispenser: External water and ice | Ice Maker: Dispenser includes ice | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
LG French Door Refrigerator with Water Dispenser
If you’re looking for a stylish and reliable side-by-side refrigerator with convenient ice and water options, the LG French Door Refrigerator with Water Dispenser is an excellent choice. Its sleek stainless steel finish and French door design add modern elegance to any kitchen. With a spacious 21.8 cubic feet capacity, it offers ample storage, organized by four split spill-proof tempered glass shelves. The smart cooling system with Linear Compressor and Multi-Air Flow technology keeps food fresh longer. Plus, the ENERGY STAR® qualification guarantees it’s energy-efficient, consuming about 587 kWh annually. The integrated water dispenser adds easy access to cold water whenever you need it.
- Capacity:21.8 cu.ft.
- Water Dispenser:Integrated in French door
- Ice Maker:Internal with dispenser
- Finish:Stainless steel
- Cooling Technology:Multi-Air Flow, Linear Compressor
- Control Type:Electronic with temperature display
- Additional Feature:Multi-Air Flow technology
- Additional Feature:Spill-protector tempered glass shelves
- Additional Feature:ENERGY STAR® qualified
Kenmore 36″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Ice Dispenser
The Kenmore 36″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Ice Dispenser is an excellent choice for busy families who need reliable, spacious storage combined with convenient ice and water access. Its 20 cu. ft. capacity and sleek fingerprint-resistant stainless steel exterior maximize kitchen space while offering flexible storage with edge-to-edge glass shelves. The multi-flow air system ensures even cooling, and the dedicated chill feature quickly cools items. The factory-installed ice maker and dispenser provide cubed or crushed ice, while the LED lighting keeps everything visible. ENERGY STAR certification and an inverter compressor guarantee quiet, energy-efficient operation, making it a dependable and modern appliance.
- Capacity:20 cu.ft.
- Water Dispenser:External on door
- Ice Maker:Factory-installed, cubed/crushed
- Finish:Fingerprint-resistant stainless steel
- Cooling Technology:Multi-Flow Air System
- Control Type:Digital touch control
- Additional Feature:Bright LED interior lighting
- Additional Feature:Factory-installed ice maker
- Additional Feature:Inverter compressor
LG 36-Inch Smart French Door Refrigerator
For busy families seeking ample storage and modern convenience, the LG 36-Inch Smart French Door Refrigerator stands out with its spacious 28 cu.ft. capacity and intuitive design. It offers plenty of room for fresh and frozen foods, with an organized, easily accessible interior. The Slim SpacePlus® Ice System efficiently produces ice, while the PrintProof™ stainless steel finish resists fingerprints and smudges. Its multi-air flow cooling system maintains consistent temperatures, keeping food fresh longer. Plus, WiFi-enabled ThinQ technology allows remote control and monitoring. The external ice and water dispenser adds convenience, making this fridge a smart, user-friendly choice for high-volume households.
- Capacity:28 cu.ft.
- Water Dispenser:External on door
- Ice Maker:External ice dispenser, automatic
- Finish:PrintProof™ stainless steel
- Cooling Technology:Multi-Air Flow, Circulates cold air
- Control Type:WiFi-enabled, ThinQ app
- Additional Feature:WiFi-enabled ThinQ Technology
- Additional Feature:External filtered water/ice dispenser
- Additional Feature:Full door access
Forno Moena 36″ French Door Refrigerator with Ice
Designed for those who prioritize both style and functionality, the Forno Moena 36″ French Door Refrigerator with Ice combines sleek stainless steel aesthetics with advanced cooling features. Its frost-free, freestanding design offers a generous 19.2 cu.ft. capacity, with flexible storage including adjustable glass shelves, large door bins, and durable drawers. The multi-air flow cooling guarantees even temperature distribution, while the automatic ice maker and fast freeze setting keep food fresh and ice ready. With intelligent controls, child lock, energy-efficient operation, and a modern look, this refrigerator seamlessly balances performance and style for any contemporary kitchen.
- Capacity:19.2 cu.ft.
- Water Dispenser:External with ice
- Ice Maker:Automatic ice maker
- Finish:Stainless steel
- Cooling Technology:Multi-air flow, electronic regulation
- Control Type:Electronic side-door display
- Additional Feature:Electronic side-door display
- Additional Feature:Vacation and Sabbath modes
- Additional Feature:Eco-friendly R600 refrigerant
Frigidaire Gallery 22.3 cu ft Side-by-Side Refrigerator
If you’re looking for a sleek, built-in look that seamlessly blends into your kitchen, the Frigidaire Gallery 22.3 cu ft Side-by-Side Refrigerator is an excellent choice. Its counter-depth design sits flush with cabinetry, saving over 4 inches of floor space and offering a modern, integrated appearance. With a generous 22.3 cu ft capacity, including dedicated fresh food and freezer sections, it provides ample storage. The smudge-proof black stainless steel finish resists fingerprints, keeping it looking pristine. Features like the external water and ice dispenser, along with energy-efficient and safety alarms, make it both convenient and reliable for everyday use.
- Capacity:22.3 cu.ft.
- Water Dispenser:External on door
- Ice Maker:Dispenser includes ice
- Finish:Smudge-proof stainless steel
- Cooling Technology:Multi-Flow Air System
- Control Type:External electronic control
- Additional Feature:CrispSeal® Plus produce drawers
- Additional Feature:Seamless built-in appearance
- Additional Feature:Smudge-proof Stainless Steel finish
Antarctic Star 20 Cu Ft French Door Refrigerator
The Antarctic Star 20 Cu Ft French Door Refrigerator stands out as an excellent choice for large households or those who need ample food storage space. It offers a spacious 20 cubic feet capacity with a sleek stainless steel finish, measuring around 30.79 inches deep, 35.75 inches wide, and nearly 70 inches high. The fridge features separate freezer and refrigeration compartments, each designed for easy organization. Equipped with a multi-airflow cooling system and automatic defrost, it keeps food fresh with minimal maintenance. The LED display and precise controls make temperature management simple, while the automatic ice maker and external water dispenser add convenience to daily life.
- Capacity:20 cu.ft.
- Water Dispenser:External water dispenser
- Ice Maker:Automatic ice maker
- Finish:Stainless steel
- Cooling Technology:Multi-air flow cooling
- Control Type:Microcomputer control, LED display
- Additional Feature:Microcomputer temperature control
- Additional Feature:Automatic defrost system
- Additional Feature:Alarm for open doors
Antarctic Star 20 Cu Ft French Door Refrigerator
The Antarctic Star 20 Cu Ft French Door Refrigerator stands out for those who need ample storage without sacrificing modern style. Its large capacity, measuring around 30.79D x 35.75W x 69.68H inches, includes a side freezer and fridge with distinct compartments. The sleek stainless steel finish adds a contemporary touch. It features a multi-airflow cooling system to keep food fresh, along with automatic defrosting and removable door seals for easy maintenance. Equipped with microcomputer controls and an LED display, you can precisely set temperatures. Plus, the door alarm and built-in ice maker with water dispenser make everyday use convenient and energy-efficient.
- Capacity:20.0 cu.ft.
- Water Dispenser:External ice and water
- Ice Maker:Ice maker included
- Finish:Stainless steel
- Cooling Technology:Multi-air flow cooling
- Control Type:Microcomputer control, LED display
- Additional Feature:LED display temperature control
- Additional Feature:Multi-airflow cooling system
- Additional Feature:Door alarm system
Forno Salerno 36″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Ice
Looking for a reliable side-by-side refrigerator that combines generous storage with modern features? The Forno Salerno 36″ model offers 20 cubic feet of total capacity, including 19.2 cubic feet inside with adjustable shelves, three glass shelves, a gallon bin, and two pull-out freezer drawers. Its frost-free design and multi-airflow cooling system keep food fresh longer by preventing spoilage. The digital touch control panel makes temperature adjustments easy, while the child lock guarantees safety. With a sleek stainless steel exterior and energy-saving vacation mode, this fridge blends style, convenience, and performance perfectly for any modern kitchen.
- Capacity:19.2 cu.ft.
- Water Dispenser:External on door
- Ice Maker:Ice maker with dispenser
- Finish:Stainless steel
- Cooling Technology:Multi air flow system
- Control Type:Digital touch control
- Additional Feature:Digital touch control panel
- Additional Feature:Child lock safety feature
- Additional Feature:Heat radiation cooling system
Kenmore 36″ French Door Refrigerator with Freezer
If you’re searching for a spacious and energy-efficient refrigerator that combines sleek design with practical features, the Kenmore 36″ French Door Refrigerator with Freezer stands out. Its counter-depth, space-saving design offers a generous 28.6 cu. ft. capacity, perfect for family meals and entertaining. Advanced cooling technology, like Rapid Accela Chill and an inverter compressor, ensures quick cooling, consistent temperatures, and quieter operation. With dual evaporators and a Multi-Flow Air System, produce stays fresh, and humidity-controlled crispers keep veggies crisp. The water and ice dispenser provides filtered water and up to 3 pounds of ice daily. Its fingerprint-resistant stainless steel completes the modern look.
- Capacity:28.6 cu.ft.
- Water Dispenser:External water and ice
- Ice Maker:Dispenser includes ice
- Finish:Fingerprint-resistant stainless steel
- Cooling Technology:Multi-Flow Air System
- Control Type:Digital control panel
- Additional Feature:Dual evaporators
- Additional Feature:Foldable sliding shelf
- Additional Feature:NSF-certified water filter
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Side-By-Side Refrigerator With Ice and Water
When choosing a side-by-side refrigerator with ice and water, I consider several key factors to find the best fit for my home. Things like storage capacity, ice and water quality, and the fridge’s size are essential, along with energy efficiency and design. Knowing what to look for helps me select a model that meets my needs and fits my space perfectly.
Storage Capacity Needs
Choosing the right storage capacity for a side-by-side refrigerator depends mainly on your household’s food habits and space constraints. I recommend estimating your daily consumption and meal prep size to determine a suitable capacity. A unit with 20 to 28 cubic feet often works well for most families, providing enough room without wasting energy. If you have a larger family or tend to stockpile bulk items, consider models over 30 cubic feet. It’s also essential to evaluate your kitchen space to ensure the fridge fits comfortably and allows door clearance. Keep in mind that larger capacities typically consume more electricity, so balancing your storage needs with energy efficiency is key to saving on long-term utility costs.
Ice and Water Quality
Ever wondered why the water and ice from some refrigerators taste noticeably better? It all comes down to the filtration system. Models with NSF-certified filters are the best because they effectively remove contaminants like chlorine, lead, and bacteria, ensuring cleaner, safer water. The quality of ice depends on this filtration as well, influencing clarity and texture—crystal-clear ice is usually a sign of good filtration and advanced ice-making tech. Regular filter changes are vital; neglecting this can lead to mold, bacteria, and mineral buildup, degrading taste and safety. Many refrigerators now offer crushed or cubed ice options, but without proper filtration, the quality can suffer. Choosing a model with a reliable filtration system guarantees fresher, better-tasting water and ice every time.
Space and Dimensions
Finding the right side-by-side refrigerator starts with understanding your available space. First, measure your kitchen carefully, including clearance needed for door opening and ventilation. Pay attention to the fridge’s overall dimensions—depth, width, and height—to ensure it fits comfortably within your designated area. Check if the door swing and handle design require extra space to open fully without obstruction. If you prefer a sleek, built-in look, consider a counter-depth model that sits flush with your cabinetry. Also, verify the internal capacity and configuration to meet your household’s storage needs, making sure it fits within your space constraints. Proper planning now will safeguard you against headaches later and help you choose a refrigerator that combines function with your kitchen’s layout.
Energy Efficiency Ratings
Understanding the space your refrigerator will occupy is just the first step; now, it’s important to contemplate its energy efficiency. An ENERGY STAR certification indicates the model meets strict energy-saving guidelines set by the EPA, ensuring lower power consumption. Refrigerators with inverter compressors are typically more efficient than traditional models, consuming less energy while maintaining ideal performance. Advanced insulation and airflow systems help keep temperatures steady, reducing compressor activity and energy waste. The EnergyGuide label provides an estimated yearly energy use in kilowatt-hours, making it easier to compare models. Choosing a highly efficient refrigerator can lead to significant savings on your electricity bills over time, all while reducing your environmental impact. Prioritizing energy ratings helps you find a reliable, cost-effective appliance.
Design and Finish
Choosing the right design and finish for your side-by-side refrigerator can substantially enhance your kitchen’s look and functionality. I recommend selecting a finish that complements your style, like fingerprint-resistant stainless steel or sleek black, which helps maintain a clean appearance with minimal effort. External ice and water dispensers add convenience but can influence the overall front panel design and accessibility. For a seamless look, consider counter-depth models that align flush with your cabinetry, creating a built-in feel. When choosing the dispenser, ensure it’s ergonomic and accessible based on your height and how often you use it. Modern finishes often feature smudge-proof coatings, making maintenance easier and keeping your fridge looking pristine longer. The right design and finish can truly tie your kitchen’s aesthetic together.
Food Preservation Features
Selecting the right food preservation features can make a noticeable difference in keeping your groceries fresh and organized. I look for refrigerators with multi-airflow cooling systems, as they ensure even temperature distribution, which helps maintain food freshness longer. Humidity-controlled crispers are essential for extending the shelf life of produce by regulating moisture levels inside the fridge. Adjustable or foldable shelves maximize vertical space, allowing me to fit different-sized items and prevent spoilage. Automatic defrosting and consistent temperature regulation reduce the need for manual maintenance and help preserve food quality. Dual evaporators or separate cooling zones are also beneficial, as they maintain ideal humidity and temperature for different types of food, preventing cross-contamination and ensuring everything stays fresh.
Budget and Cost
Setting a clear budget before shopping can save you time and prevent overspending on features you don’t really need. I recommend determining your overall spending limit early on to narrow down options effectively. Consider the cost gap between basic models and those with advanced features like WiFi connectivity or multi-air flow cooling. Higher-priced refrigerators often provide better energy efficiency, which can save you money on utility bills long-term. Don’t forget to include additional expenses such as delivery, installation, and potential future repairs or replacements when evaluating total costs. Balancing your desired features with your budget is key to finding a side-by-side refrigerator that offers the best value without sacrificing essential needs. This approach ensures you get the most for your money.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Typical Lifespan of Side-By-Side Refrigerators With Ice and Water?
A typical side-by-side refrigerator with ice and water lasts about 10 to 15 years. I’ve found that regular maintenance, like cleaning coils and changing filters, can extend its life. Of course, factors like usage, brand, and model matter too. If you take good care of it, you might enjoy its features for a little longer. When it’s time to replace, I always consider energy efficiency and new features.
How Energy-Efficient Are These Refrigerators Compared to Other Models?
I find that side-by-side refrigerators with ice and water tend to be quite energy-efficient, especially newer models designed with advanced insulation and smart technology. They often use less energy than older or less feature-rich models. While they might consume slightly more than top-tier French door or bottom freezer units, their convenience and features like built-in water and ice dispensers make them a smart, eco-friendly choice overall.
Do All Side-By-Side Refrigerators Require Professional Installation?
Not all side-by-side refrigerators require professional installation, but many do, especially if they need to be plumbed for ice and water or require special electrical setups. I recommend checking the manufacturer’s instructions, as some models are designed for easy DIY setup, while others benefit from professional help to guarantee proper installation and avoid potential issues. If you’re unsure, consulting a professional can save you headaches later.
Are Replacement Water Filters Included or Sold Separately?
Most side-by-side refrigerators with ice and water do not include replacement water filters, so you’ll usually need to buy them separately. I’ve found that manufacturers often recommend specific filters for their models, which can be purchased online or at stores. It’s a good idea to check your refrigerator’s manual or product details to confirm if a filter is included or if you’ll need to buy one separately to keep your water fresh and clean.
What Maintenance Is Needed to Keep Ice and Water Functions Clean?
Oh, the glamorous world of fridge maintenance! To keep your ice and water functions spotless, I recommend changing filters as recommended—usually every six months—cleaning the dispenser area regularly, and running a mix of vinegar and water through the system to prevent mold buildup. Yep, it’s all about simple upkeep. Trust me, a little effort now saves you from ice cubes that taste like last week’s laundry.
Conclusion
Choosing the right side-by-side refrigerator with ice and water depends on your needs and space. While some swear by advanced smart features, I believe simplicity often wins—less fuss means fewer repairs and more reliable performance. notably, studies suggest that appliances with straightforward designs tend to last longer. So, whether you prioritize tech or durability, I recommend balancing features with proven reliability to make the best choice for your home.
