A refrigerator keeps your ingredients fresh and organized so they’re ready to use and easy to find whenever culinary inspiration strikes. And now, you have more options than ever before. But, which type of refrigerator is actually right for you? Discover the many different types of KitchenAid^® refrigerators to find the right style and model for your kitchen and culinary needs.

How Many Refrigerator Types are There?

There are five common refrigerator configurations that differ by door design and interior layout. French door, side-by-side, top or bottom mount freezer and undercounter refrigerators or beverage centers are some of the most common styles of refrigerators. However, you can also choose from different depths, finishes and installation styles, making the different types of refrigerators numerous.

KitchenAid brand has a range of refrigerator types to choose from, so you can find a new refrigerator that matches the way you make.

Refrigerator Type by STYLE

1. French Door Refrigerators

French door styles feature two upper doors that open to reveal a full-width refrigerator compartment and in-door storage—much like a pantry. The freezer is located in a pull-out drawer below. This type of fridge often comes with more features and high-end finishes compared to other configurations. 

French door refrigerators are popular for their expansive fresh food storage space up top, where you can easily organize and reach items. The wide compartments allow you to store large items like platters or oversized dishes. This refrigerator style has narrow doors, making KitchenAid^® French Door Refrigerators a good choice for galley-style kitchens or placement behind an island.

2. Side-by-Side Refrigerators

This style features side-by-side refrigerator and freezer compartments. The two vertical spaces create flexible storage options for both the refrigerator and freezer, letting you place the items you access most—fresh or frozen—at eye level. As with French door refrigerators, you’ll also often find larger capacities and higher-end features available.

Having a bit more freezer capacity than French door models makes this a good option if you frequently preserve seasonal favorites in the freezer. The sleek, streamlined exteriors of KitchenAid^® side-by-side refrigerators feature two narrow doors that help free up space to move around your kitchen when accessing the fridge.

Learn more about side-by-side vs. french door refrigerators to see which one might be the best type of refrigerator for you.

3. Bottom Mount Freezer Refrigerators

Bottom freezer refrigerators offer a traditional look with a contemporary setup. Reach fresh food easily in a full-width top refrigerator with a freezer below that is accessible by either a door or pull-out drawer. You may find more compact options in this style along with a more streamlined set of features.

These types of fridges offer the conveniences of an updated top-refrigerator setup with some lower-priced options. While bottom mount refrigerators are less likely to offer premium features, some KitchenAid^® Bottom Freezer Refrigerator models are available with easy upgrades including optional ice maker kits.

4. Top Mount Freezer Refrigerators

This classic style of refrigerator features a freezer up top and refrigerator below. Frozen items are easy to access, but you may need to bend or stoop for fresh items in the lower refrigerator compartment. Top mount refrigerators are frequently available with a streamlined set of features and an entry price point. You’ll also find some of the smallest sizes in this style if you’re looking for a compact refrigerator.

Refrigerator Type by Installation

5. Freestanding Refrigerators

This is the most common type of refrigerator installation. Freestanding fridges can be placed just about anywhere with the necessary hookups—power and/or water, and the required clearances around it. Make sure you measure ahead of time to ensure it will fit your space. Freestanding models offer the most options in refrigerator types, sizes and finishes vs other types of fridge installations. You can usually find a freestanding model in any of the refrigerator styles discussed below.

6. Built-In Refrigerators

Built-in refrigerators are affixed to the wall and installed inside cabinets, allowing for a seamless integration and a premium look. Some built-in refrigerators are even panel ready so you can match the exterior to your existing cabinets. It is more common to find French door and side-by-side refrigerators with built-in installation, though KitchenAid brand offers a range of built-in refrigerator styles. 

This refrigerator type is often taller with extra wide options available up to around 48 inches. The width can make up for some loss in depth since built-ins are often flush with cabinets at 24 inches deep. Because built-in refrigerators sometimes require custom cabinetry, they are considered more permanent than freestanding models.

Refrigerator Type by depth

7. Standard-Depth Refrigerators

Standard-depth, or full-depth refrigerators, usually measure 35–36 inches from front to back. If you install this type of refrigerator between counters or cabinets, it will likely stick out past them by as much as half a foot or more. Considered full-sized fridges, KitchenAid^® standard-depth, or full-depth refrigerators offer a few more inches of front to back storage than slimmer models.

8. Counter-Depth Refrigerators

This type of refrigerator is usually around 24 inches deep, matching the depth of cabinets and counters for a nearly flush installation. This helps create clean lines in your kitchen design, and can create a built-in look even with freestanding refrigerators. Counter-depth fridges are sometimes a little wider or taller than standard-sized fridges so you won’t lose much in capacity. Learn more about counter-depth vs. standard-depth refrigerators.

Refrigerator Type by Finish

9. Stainless Steel and Black Stainless Steel Refrigerators

Stainless steel is a durable, versatile finish that can bring a modern or industrial look to kitchens or serve as a contrasting focal point for more traditional styles. Classic stainless steel is a popular choice offered by most brands in many configurations. Some brands now offer black stainless steel refrigerators for an updated twist that lends a rich depth to this kitchen favorite. 

10. Black and White Refrigerators

Black or white refrigerators are a classic choice and can pair well with a range of styles. You may find entry price points for this type of refrigerator finish, depending on the model. Neutral black refrigerators can help ground colorful kitchens while white adds a bright touch of freshness. Learn more about white appliance trends for 2024 to consider for your kitchen.

11. Panel-Ready Refrigerators

For a completely seamless integration, opt for a panel-ready refrigerator. This type of fridge allows you to affix your own custom panel on the exterior to match your cabinets. From off-white farmhouse cabinets to minimal modern designs, even a large appliance like a refrigerator can blend in.

12. Other Refrigerator Types

What Style of Refrigerator is Most Efficient?

Refrigerators that are ENERGY STAR^® certified, like this KitchenAid^® Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Exterior Ice and Water, are about 9 percent more energy efficient than standard models, regardless of the configuration of the refrigerator. If you are looking for the most energy efficient refrigerators, choose which configuration fits your making and your kitchen best, then look for ENERGY STAR^® certified models in that style.

What Type of Refrigerator is Best for Your Kitchen?

The best type of refrigerator for you will fit effortlessly into your kitchen, your design aesthetic and the way you make. 

When shopping for a new refrigerator, consider the following:

• Your kitchen’s design aesthetic can help you determine which configuration is right for you. If you prefer a premium and integrated look, a built-in refrigerator may be the best choice. If you have a narrow kitchen, consider a counterdepth model for a more seamless look.

• Which ingredients do you use the most? If you find yourself over-packing the refrigeration section of your appliance, a french door model may be the upgrade your kitchen needs, or review our large capacity refrigerators options.

• Consider which color or finish will best elevate the look of your kitchen. Stainless steel adds sleek flair to modern kitchens, while black or white finishes can offer a more traditional aesthetic.

Explore this refrigerator buying guide for more information on how to choose a fridge.