There are several factors to evaluate when you need a new refrigerator. Look for models that can handle your capacity needs and the size of your kitchen space, then check for bonus features like extra drawers and external ice makers. As you review your options and consider the best refrigerators, it is crucial to determine whether you want a counter-depth vs. standard-depth appliance. There are pros and cons for each option, which is why it’s not always easy to choose between these two styles. Use this guide to learn the difference between a counter-depth refrigerator vs. standard models and when to choose one design over another.
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See All RefrigerationWhat is Counter-Depth vs Standard Depth
A counter-depth refrigerator is designed to be as wide as your kitchen counters or cabinets. This prevents it from sticking out in your kitchen and taking up more space than you want. Homeowners seek out counter-depth refrigerator models when they want elevated designs in their homes.
The main difference is the counter-depth fridge dimensions vs. standard designs. A standard refrigerator will be about 36 inches deep, which makes it stick out beyond your cabinets. A counter-depth model will only be around 24 to 30 inches deep so it can be tucked into your kitchen. However, not everyone who wants a counter-depth refrigerator is happy about losing storage capacity because of the reduced depth. To make up for this, many appliance companies make counter-depth models wider so they have the same storage capacity. Make sure you measure your kitchen space so you buy a refrigerator that fits in your home.
Other than the dimensions, these two refrigerator options are nearly the same. You can find standard vs. counter-depth fridge options from various brands with the same features, styles, and colors you prefer. You usually don’t have to sacrifice anything to choose a counter-depth vs. standard-depth design.
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Pros & Cons of Standard Depth Refrigerators
As you consider a standard vs. counter-depth refrigerators, it is important to review each of their respective benefits and drawbacks. Standard depth refrigerators offer several advantages and disadvantages that should be considered before making a purchase decision.
Pros
Spacious Interior
Standard depth refrigerators typically have larger capacities compared to counter depth models, providing ample storage space for groceries and perishables.
Wide Range of Options
Standard depth refrigerators come in various styles, configurations, and price points, allowing consumers to choose a model that suits their specific needs and budget.
Lower Cost
In general, standard depth refrigerators tend to be more affordable than counter depth or built-in models, making them a budget-friendly option for many households.
Ease of Installation
Standard depth refrigerators are designed to fit into standard kitchen spaces and do not require custom cabinetry or modifications, simplifying the installation process.
Cons
Protrusion into Kitchen Space
Standard depth refrigerators extend further into the kitchen compared to counter depth models, potentially obstructing traffic flow and reducing available floor space.
Less Seamless Integration
Standard depth refrigerators may not offer the same built-in or flush-mount appearance as counter depth or built-in models, resulting in a less cohesive look in the kitchen.
Limited Design Options
While standard depth refrigerators come in a variety of styles, they may not offer the same level of customization or high-end features as premium models.
Less Energy Efficient
Standard depth refrigerators may consume more energy than counter depth models due to their larger size and greater volume of air that needs to be cooled.
Despite these drawbacks, standard depth refrigerators remain a popular choice for many households due to their affordability, spacious interiors, and wide availability of options.
Pros & Cons of Counter-Depth Refrigerators
Counter-depth refrigerators offer a sleek and integrated look in modern kitchens, but they also come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages.
Pros
Aesthetic Appeal
One of the primary advantages of counter-depth refrigerators is their streamlined appearance. By aligning with standard kitchen counters, they create a cohesive and polished look that enhances the overall aesthetic of the kitchen.
Space Optimization
Counter-depth refrigerators are designed to fit flush with cabinetry, maximizing available floor space and creating a more open and spacious feel in the kitchen. This can be particularly beneficial in smaller kitchens where every inch of space matters.
Accessibility
With their shallow depth, counter-depth refrigerators allow for easier access to food items, as everything is within arm's reach. This eliminates the need to dig deep into the refrigerator to find what you need, resulting in a more organized and user-friendly storage solution.
Built-in Appearance
Counter-depth refrigerators are often chosen for their built-in appearance, resembling custom-built refrigeration units at a fraction of the cost. This makes them an attractive option for homeowners seeking a high-end look without the expense of custom cabinetry.
Cons
Reduced Storage Capacity
One of the main drawbacks of counter-depth refrigerators is their reduced storage capacity compared to standard-depth models. The shallower design may limit the amount of food and beverages that can be stored, especially in the freezer compartment.
Limited Shelf Depth
The shallower shelves in counter-depth refrigerators may not accommodate larger or bulkier items as effectively as standard-depth models. This can pose a challenge when storing items like party platters, pizza boxes, or oversized containers.
Higher Cost
Counter-depth refrigerators tend to be more expensive than their standard-depth counterparts due to their specialized design and premium features. This higher cost may be prohibitive for some budget-conscious consumers.
Limited Selection
While counter-depth refrigerators have gained popularity in recent years, the selection of models and brands available may be more limited compared to standard-depth options. This can make it more challenging to find a counter-depth refrigerator that meets all of your specific needs and preferences.
Overall, counter-depth refrigerators offer a stylish and space-saving solution for modern kitchens, but their reduced storage capacity and higher cost should be carefully considered before making a purchase decision.
How to Choose: Standard Depth vs. Counter Depth
There are dozens of appliance brands in today’s market that are all trying to convince you that their refrigerators are the best, which means narrowing your options can get overwhelming. Here are a few ways to decide whether a counter-depth vs. standard-depth appliance is right for you.
- Measure Your Space: Determine how wide your refrigerator can be and whether your space is big enough to fit a counter-depth model.
- Check How Deep Your Counters Are: If you have large counters, you might not need to buy a specific counter-depth refrigerator. Conversely, it will be harder to find appliances that accommodate shallow counters.
- Know Your Ideal Refrigerator Capacity: Larger families need bigger refrigerators. Make sure you can find counter and standard-depth refrigerator options in the capacity you need.
- Set a Budget: Once you have your dimensions and capacity requirements, get an idea of what you can afford or are willing to spend for a new refrigerator.
Once you complete these steps, you can filter your product options and choose the best refrigerator styles and brands based on your personal preferences. Whether you want a side-by-side GE refrigerator or a French-door Samsung model, you will know that the appliances fit your needs.
4 Favorite Counter Depth + Standard Depth Refrigerators
One of the best ways to get to know your refrigerator options is to look at some of the products currently available. Here is a mixture of counter-depth and standard refrigerators that might look great in your home.
GE® 21.9 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Counter Depth Side By Side Refrigerator
The GE model #GZS22DSJSS offers a sleek and integrated look in any kitchen with its counter-depth design. This feature ensures a seamless fit with surrounding cabinetry and countertops, providing a built-in appearance without sacrificing storage capacity. You can also take home this side-by-side refrigerator if you want to access both compartments equally. This is ideal for homeowners who don’t like bending down to open a freezer or refrigerator section.
Sub-Zero® Designer Series 19.6 Cu. Ft. Panel Ready Counter Depth Bottom Freezer Refrigerator
Shop this Sub-Zero® Refrigerator
Even if you aren’t sure if you want a refrigerator standard vs. counter-depth, you can still find appliances from luxury brands that elevate your home. This is the case with this counter depth Sub-Zero refrigerator. There are two different bottom drawers that you can set at different temperatures for better organization. You can opt for two freezers or a second refrigerator section depending on your grocery needs.
Frigidaire Gallery® 27.8 Cu. Ft. Smudge-Proof® Stainless Steel French Door Refrigerator
Shop this Frigidaire Gallery® Refrigerator
This Frigidaire Gallery French door refrigerator offers both functionality and style with its freestanding design. This standard-depth refrigerator allows for easy installation anywhere in the kitchen, providing flexibility in layout and space utilization. Its sleek and modern appearance, combined with smudge-proof stainless steel, ensures a clean and polished look that complements any kitchen decor. Plus, it is ENERGY STAR-certified, meaning that it was designed to maximize energy efficiency and help save you money!
Whirlpool® 30 in. 18.2 Cu. Ft. Monochromatic Stainless Steel Top Freezer Refrigerator
Shop this Whirlpool® Refrigerator
This Whirlpool top freezer refrigerator offers a standard depth design, providing a sleek and integrated look in any kitchen space. The top freezer configuration allows for easy access to frozen foods while keeping them organized with adjustable shelves and bins.
Frequently Asked Questions
A counter-depth refrigerator (or any other appliance) is designed to line up with your kitchen counters. These appliances will not stick out and break up the smooth designs of your kitchen. Make sure you measure your refrigerator space before buying one to make sure it doesn’t stick out farther than you expect.
Counter-depth refrigerators are usually 24 to 30 inches deep, which is about six inches shallower than a standard depth model. To make up for the lost capacity with the reduced depth, these refrigerators are often wider than standard appliances. This is why it is important to measure your space, otherwise you might have a counter-depth appliance that is too wide to fit.
A freestanding refrigerator is a standalone appliance that can be placed anywhere in the kitchen without the need for surrounding cabinetry. It is typically available in a variety of widths and heights to accommodate different kitchen layouts. Compared to counter depth refrigerators, which are shallower to align with standard kitchen counters, freestanding refrigerators often have greater depth and capacity. However, they more often protrude further into the kitchen space and may not offer as seamless an integration with surrounding cabinetry as counter depth models. Despite these differences, freestanding refrigerators provide flexibility in installation and come in a wide range of styles and features to suit diverse household needs.
If you live in or around Buffalo and Rochester, New York, stop by Orville’s Home Appliances to shop our wide selection of refrigerators. You can choose a counter-depth model that works in your kitchen or stick to standard sizes so you can find the right brand and size that meets your needs. Visit Orville’s today and let us help you outfit your kitchen with high-quality appliances.
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For nearly 60 years, Orville's has been synonymous with excellence in the home appliance industry. With eight appliance showrooms and a 110,000-square-foot warehouse stocked with 25,000+ major home appliances, we offer the largest selection of kitchen, laundry, and outdoor appliances in Western New York.
Every Orville’s location showcases over a 1,000 different appliance models, with products from today’s best appliance brands. From outlet deals to scratch and dent, we always ensure our customers receive the best value with a Low Price Guarantee. A continuously refreshed catalog of in-stock appliances awaits, ready and available for the region’s fastest delivery and installation service. Experience the Orville's difference today. Visit one of our local appliance stores and discover why we're your trusted source for home appliances in Western New York.
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As a family-owned and operated business since 1965, Orville's is deeply rooted in the WNY, Genessee Valley, and Finger Lakes community. We're proud to have been serving the appliance needs of Rochester, Buffalo, and beyond for over five decades, and we remain committed to providing exceptional service and support to our loyal customers. Our appliance specialists are always happy to answer any questions about counter depth vs standard depth refrigerators.
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