Counter-Depth Vs. Standard-Depth Refrigerators: HOW TO CHOOSE

Counter-depth refrigerators are shallower to achieve a built-in appearance while standard refrigerators 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 refrigerators fit nearly flush with your cabinetry, but measure smaller in depth than standard size refridgerators. 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?

Counter-depth refrigerators are available in side-by-side, French door, four door and bottom freezer configurations. Designed to sit nearly flush with cabinetry, these refrigerators help create more room to move around in the kitchen.

Most counter-depth refrigerators are around 24-30 inches deep, while standard-depth models are typically 31-36 inches deep. Though shallower than a standard size refrigerator, counter-depth models offer 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 a similar 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 are often wider (around 36 inches) and taller (typically between 61 and 72 inches) 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.

COUNTER-DEPTH VS. BUILT-IN REFRIGERATORS: WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?

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.

Built-in models can also come in wider sizes than their counter-depth counterparts. This way, you can enjoy plenty of space for fresh ingredients without sacrificing the seamless integration of flush installation.  

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, all while giving you the flexibility to store whatever you’re whipping up. Select KitchenAid^® counter-depth refrigerators feature Customizable Spaces for items big and small, with nine removable glass shelves and eight adjustable door bins to keep all of your ingredients easily accessible. Rearrange to fit tall wine bottles, stash small items within reach and organize frozen favorites.

WHAT IS A STANDARD-DEPTH REFRIGERATOR?

Most standard-depth refrigerators are between 31 and 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 36 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 refrigerator, 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.

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. Plus, fit whatever you’re storing with the Slide-Away Shelf on select KitchenAid^® refrigerators, featuring a versatile design that allows three-quarters of the shelf to retract to accommodate taller items, such as wine bottles, up to 16.75 inches. This flexibility offers tall-item storage space and helps optimize organization.

COUNTER-DEPTH VS. STANDARD-DEPTH REFRIGERATOR 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 refrigerator may have a bit less room inside, but learning how to organize your refrigerator can help you make the most of your space.

• COUNTER-DEPTH REFRIGERATOR CAPACITY: 15-25 cubic feet

• STANDARD-DEPTH REFRIGERATOR CAPACITY: 20-25 cubic feet

A counter-depth refrigerator might be the perfect solution to creating a more open workspace in your kitchen or, if you keep your refrigerator fully stocked, a larger capacity standard-depth refrigerator might be the way to go. If you need 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 refrigerator.

COUNTER-DEPTH VS. STANDARD-DEPTH REFRIGERATOR 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 various models of both counter-depth and standard-depth refrigerators from KitchenAid brand. Select models offer some of the following features:

• Exterior Ice and Water Dispenser: Provides quick and easy access to chilled water and ice.
• Fast Ice: Increase ice production by up to 30% for 24 hours or until the ice bin reaches full capacity,¹ so you're well-prepared when hosting guests.

• 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: Helps neutralize common food odors for up to six months.
• 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, and Cheese and Wine.
• Signature Platinum Interior: Wows from the inside out with premium craftsmanship and design. Wood-look trim, metallic touchpoints, smoked crisper bins and ultra-bright LED lighting pop against the stunning silver-colored finish.
• Smoked Crisper Bins: These bins feature a wood-look trim and metallic knobs that enhance the premium feel, complementing the fresh ingredients stored inside.
• Three-Tier Freezer Drawer with Pizza Pocket: Conveniently organize frozen foods so they're easy to find. An adjustable storage divider in the lower drawer, pizza pocket and flat-item shelf help keep smaller items from getting lost under larger ones.
• Adjustable Spill-Resistant Shelves with Metallic Trim: Nano-etched edges help contain messes for easy cleaning. Sleek metallic trim on the front edges adds a striking accent.

 ^{1. Compared to normal ice production.}

EXPLORE KITCHENAID^® REFRIGERATORS

The refrigerator is the center of the kitchen, and even the most subtle features can make a difference in the way you make. For instance, the Produce Preserver on some KitchenAid^® refrigerators absorbs ethylene gas emitted by many fruits and vegetables, causing them to over ripen. By removing ethylene, the Produce Preserver helps extend freshness. An adjustable storage divider in the lower drawer, pizza pocket and flat-item shelf help keep smaller items from getting lost under larger ones. Once you’ve decided on measurements, configuration and exterior finish, discovering features that align with your lifestyle will be an added bonus to help kick-start your culinary endeavors. Read a refrigerator buying guide from KitchenAid brand for more helpful tips and information on how to pick just the right refrigerator for your kitchen.