A side-by-side layout that separates fresh and frozen food into vertical columns, combined with a dedicated ice maker, is engineered to solve exactly this challenge for families and households that prioritize convenience and capacity.
I’m Mohammad Maruf — the founder and writer behind AirfryerBite. I’ve spent years analyzing the hardware architecture of cooling appliances, from compressor wattage and airflow design to ice production rates and bin storage geometry, to identify which models genuinely deliver on their promises.
This guide evaluates the current market to help you find the best side-by-side refrigerator with ice maker for your home, focusing on the specific specs that separate a reliable 10-year workhorse from a frustrating purchase.
How To Choose The Best Side-By-Side Refrigerator With Ice Maker
Selecting a side-by-side refrigerator with an ice maker requires balancing footprint, capacity, and ice production. Unlike French door models, the vertical split of a side-by-side means every inch of freezer width is at a premium, making the ice maker’s location and bin design critical to everyday usability.
Ice Production Rate and Storage Bin Capacity
The ice maker’s output is measured in pounds per day — typically 2.5 to 5.0 lbs for residential models. A built-in sensor that stops production when the bin is full is standard, but bin capacity varies widely. Models with a removable ice bucket that holds 3 to 6 pounds let you grab ice without digging into a crowded drawer. For heavy use, look for a model that produces at least 3.5 lbs per day and stores at least 4 lbs at a time.
Compressor Technology and Energy Efficiency
Inverter compressors ramp up and down to maintain temperature without cycling on and off, which reduces wear and noise. Reciprocating compressors are cheaper but louder and less energy-efficient. Linear compressors, found on some premium brands, offer a 10-year warranty. Annual energy consumption below 500 kWh is a strong indicator of long-term savings, especially if the refrigerator will run in a garage or basement with wide temperature swings.
Freezer Layout and Door Storage
In a side-by-side, the freezer is a tall, narrow column. Adjustable wire or glass shelves are essential to accommodate frozen pizzas, bags of vegetables, and bulk items. Door bins on the freezer side that can hold gallon-sized bags or multiple ice trays add functionality. Some models place the ice maker at the very top of the freezer, sacrificing one shelf — verify this before buying if you regularly store tall frozen items.
Quick Comparison
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| Model | Category | Best For | Key Spec | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Antarctic Star French Door | Premium | Nugget ice lovers | 20 cu. ft., nugget + cube ice maker | Amazon |
| LG LMXS28626S | Premium | Large families | 27.8 cu. ft., Linear Compressor | Amazon |
| GE Profile PVD28BYNFS | Premium | Smart home integration | 27.9 cu. ft., fingerprint resistant | Amazon |
| KoolMore Counter Depth | Mid-Range | Counter-depth fit | 22.5 cu. ft., dual-flow cooling | Amazon |
| Bosch 800 Series | Premium | Quiet operation | 20.5 cu. ft., dual compressor | Amazon |
| Frigidaire FRQS1721AV | Mid-Range | Budget French door | 17.4 cu. ft., TwinTech dual evaporator | Amazon |
| Avanti French Door | Mid-Range | Small kitchens | 17.5 cu. ft., ice maker ready | Amazon |
| BLACK+DECKER 20.1 cu. ft. | Mid-Range | Garage/workshop | 20.1 cu. ft., inverter compressor | Amazon |
| BLACK+DECKER 18.1 cu. ft. | Budget | Entry-level ice maker | 18.0 cu. ft., 3.5 lbs/day ice maker | Amazon |
| Avanti Side-by-Side 15.6 cu. ft. | Budget | Small space | 15.6 cu. ft., compact side-by-side | Amazon |
| Kenmore Top Mount | Budget | Garage ready | 20.2 cu. ft., inverter compressor | Amazon |
| Frigidaire FRFS2823A | Premium | External water/ice dispenser | 27.8 cu. ft., external dispenser | Amazon |
| ICECASA Commercial 36 cu. ft. | Premium | Residential bulk storage | 36.0 cu. ft., fan cooling | Amazon |
In-Depth Reviews
1. Antarctic Star French Door Refrigerator with Side Freezer
The Antarctic Star stands out because it produces both nugget ice and traditional cube ice — a rare feature that appeals to anyone who prefers soft, chewable ice with their drinks. The side-by-side freezer layout places the ice maker in the left column, where a dispenser on the door delivers ice and cold water without opening the freezer. The 20 cubic foot total capacity is enough for a family of four, and the multi-airflow cooling system keeps temperatures even across all shelves.
The microcomputer control system lets you adjust fridge and freezer temperatures independently via an LED display. An audible alarm sounds if a door is left open for more than one minute, which is a practical safeguard for busy households. The automatic defrost program eliminates manual scraping, and the removable door seals make periodic cleaning straightforward.
Matte stainless steel finish resists fingerprints reasonably well. The 35.75-inch width requires a standard 36-inch opening, and the 69.68-inch height fits under most overhanging cabinets. Annual energy consumption is 560 watts — slightly above average for this capacity, but the dual ice maker and water dispenser justify the draw.
Why it’s great
- Nugget and cube ice from one unit
- Independent temperature control for fridge and freezer
- Door alarm and automatic defrost
Good to know
- Ice maker consumes freezer shelf space at top of left column
- Energy consumption is moderate for its capacity
2. LG LMXS28626S 28 Cu. Ft. French Door Refrigerator
LG’s 28 cu. ft. model uses a Linear Compressor backed by a 10-year warranty and operates with significantly less noise and vibration than reciprocating designs. The Slim SpacePlus ice system tucks into the door, preserving interior freezer shelf space — a major advantage in a side-by-side layout where every inch counts. Two-tiered freezer drawers with a DuraBase solid bottom handle heavy frozen loads without flexing.
The Smart Cooling system uses multiple sensors to minimize temperature fluctuation, and Door Cooling+ pushes cold air directly at the shelves after the door is opened. Wi-Fi connectivity via LG ThinQ lets you monitor temperatures and run diagnostics from a phone. Humidity-controlled crispers and a Glide N’ Serve drawer organize produce and deli items separately.
Some user reports note that the produce can freeze if shelves are packed too close to the rear cooling vents, so careful loading is recommended. The external ice and water dispenser includes a filter status indicator. Annual energy consumption is 724 kWh, which is typical for a refrigerator in this size class.
Why it’s great
- Linear Compressor with 10-year warranty
- SpacePlus ice system does not sacrifice interior shelf space
- Smart cooling and Wi-Fi monitoring
Good to know
- Some users report freezing in crisper drawers
- Ice maker compartment reduces freezer door bin space
3. GE Profile PVD28BYNFS 36″ 4-Door French Door Refrigerator
GE Profile’s 27.9 cu. ft. four-door configuration splits the freezer into a bottom drawer and a smaller upper drawer, giving side-by-side-like access to frozen items without the full vertical column. The external water and ice dispenser provides cubed and crushed ice as well as chilled filtered water. The fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish is a practical upgrade for homes with children or frequent entertaining.
Multi-Air Flow technology circulates cold air through multiple vents to prevent warm spots, which is critical in a tall refrigerator that may struggle to maintain even temperatures top to bottom. Adjustable spill-proof glass shelves contain drips, and the humidity-controlled crispers keep produce from wilting. The 48.38-inch door swing depth requires clearance — measure your kitchen layout carefully.
Annual energy consumption is 722 kWh, competitive for a model in this size and feature set. The rotary scroll compressor is quieter than a basic reciprocating model but not as refined as a linear compressor. Some users report that the upper freezer drawer lacks vertical clearance for bagged frozen vegetables.
Why it’s great
- Fingerprint-resistant finish
- Two separate freezer drawers for organized storage
- External water and ice dispenser
Good to know
- Upper freezer drawer has limited height
- Door swing requires large clearance
4. KoolMore Counter Depth French Door Refrigerator with Ice Maker
At 22.5 cu. ft. in a 29-inch depth, the KoolMore is designed for kitchens where standard-depth refrigerators protrude too far. The ice maker is built into the freezer compartment and produces a steady supply of cubes, though it does occupy the top shelf of the left freezer column. The dual-flow cooling system maintains consistent temperatures without creating dry spots near the rear vents.
Six door bins, adjustable glass shelving, and dual crispers with humidity control give you flexible organization. The digital temperature control lets you dial in settings for both fridge and freezer independently. The matte stainless steel finish resists fingerprints, and the recessed handles keep the front profile clean. Owners consistently report that this refrigerator is notably quiet, making it suitable for open-plan living spaces.
The 35.8-inch width is slightly less than standard 36-inch models, so it can fit into tighter openings. Annual energy consumption is 588 kWh, which is efficient for a counter-depth unit. The freezer drawers lack a divider, so loose items may shift when sliding open.
Why it’s great
- True counter-depth design
- Very quiet compressor operation
- Dual-flow cooling for even temperatures
Good to know
- Ice maker takes one freezer shelf
- Freezer drawers lack internal dividers
5. Bosch 800 Series 36″ Counter Depth French Door Refrigerator
Bosch’s 800 Series uses two independent compressors — one for the fresh food section and one for the freezer — so temperature and humidity in each compartment never cross-contaminate. This dual-compressor architecture also means the ice maker runs on its own cooling circuit, which reduces frost migration and keeps ice tasting fresh. At 20.5 cu. ft., this is a smaller-capacity model, but the counter-depth profile and 36-inch width fit seamlessly into standard kitchen cabinetry.
The recessed handle design gives a flush, built-in look that modern kitchens demand. The easy-clean stainless steel finish resists smudges effectively. Interior LED lighting is positioned at the top and sides to eliminate shadowed corners. The frost-free defrost system requires no manual maintenance. Owners consistently praise the near-silent operation — the compressors are barely audible even in a quiet kitchen.
The external ice and water dispenser delivers filtered water and cubed/crushed ice. One limitation: the counter-depth design means interior shelves are shallower, so large platters and pizza boxes must be oriented carefully. Annual energy consumption is not specified on the listing, but dual-compressor models typically use more than single-compressor equivalents. The 4-star BEE rating suggests reasonable efficiency.
Why it’s great
- Two independent compressors for separate climate zones
- Extremely quiet operation
- Flush counter-depth fit with recessed handles
Good to know
- Smaller total capacity at 20.5 cu. ft.
- Dual compressors may increase energy use
6. Frigidaire FRQG1721AV 17.4 Cubic Foot Refrigerator
The Frigidaire FRQG1721AV uses TwinTech dual evaporators, which maintain separate humidity levels in the fresh food and freezer compartments — a feature usually found on more expensive models. The freezer section is a spacious pull-out drawer design that gives easy access to frozen items without bending deep into a tall column. At 17.4 cu. ft., this is a mid-size unit, but the 5.5 cu. ft. freezer capacity is generous for its class.
Two SpaceWise adjustable glass shelves, two gallon-size door bins, and LED interior lighting cover the basics well. The crisper drawers are designed for produce storage, but some users note that the spacing between shelves is awkward for tall bottles or pitchers. The recessed handles give a clean appearance and avoid snagging in tight kitchen passages.
Annual energy consumption is 507 kWh, which is efficient for a 17.4 cu. ft. model. User reviews spanning six years of ownership report consistent performance with minimal issues. This model does not include a built-in ice maker — it is sold as a standalone refrigerator. If an ice maker is a requirement, this model is not suitable unless you add an aftermarket unit, which is not recommended.
Why it’s great
- TwinTech dual evaporators preserve food freshness
- Pull-out freezer drawer is ergonomic
- Low annual energy consumption for its capacity
Good to know
- No built-in ice maker
- Shelving spacing may not fit tall bottles
7. Avanti French Door Refrigerator with Bottom Freezer 30-Inch Wide
The Avanti French Door refrigerator is a space-saving option at 30 inches wide and 17.5 cu. ft. total capacity, designed for apartments, condos, and smaller kitchens. The unit is ice maker ready, meaning the internal connections are present but the ice maker itself must be purchased separately and installed. The bottom freezer drawer offers 5.1 cu. ft. of frozen storage with a pull-out basket for organization.
Three adjustable glass shelves and two clear-view crisper drawers give the fresh food section reasonable flexibility. The stainless steel doors include recessed handles that maintain a clean profile. The electronic temperature control is front-facing, so you can adjust settings without opening the door. ENERGY STAR certification with an annual consumption of 327 kWh makes this one of the more efficient models in this group.
User reviews note that the freezer drawer glides smoothly and the interior LED lighting is bright. The ice maker installation requires plumbing access and a compatible kit, which adds to the total cost if you decide to add it later. The 30-inch width may not accommodate standard 36-inch counter openings without filler panels.
Why it’s great
- Compact 30-inch width fits small kitchens
- Very low energy consumption at 327 kWh/year
- Two crisper drawers for produce storage
Good to know
- Ice maker not included — sold separately
- Freezer capacity is modest at 5.1 cu. ft.
8. BLACK+DECKER 20.1 Cu. Ft. Top Mount Refrigerator
The BLACK+DECKER 20.1 cu. ft. top mount refrigerator uses an inverter compressor, which adjusts cooling output to match the load rather than cycling on and off aggressively. This reduces compressor noise and improves energy efficiency. The included ice maker sits in the top freezer section and produces approximately 3.5 lbs of ice per day, with a sensor that stops production when the bin is full.
The frost-free design eliminates manual defrosting, and the adjustable temperature control lets you tune fridge and freezer settings independently. The stainless steel look finish is a matte coating rather than real stainless, but it resists fingerprints better than bare metal. The reversible door orientation allows configuration for left or right swing, which is helpful for garage or workshop installations.
Annual energy consumption is 516 kWh, which is average for a 20 cu. ft. top mount. Some users report that the ice maker can be slower during high ambient temperature days if the freezer is set to a warmer temperature. The top freezer layout limits freezer access to a single large compartment without dividers.
Why it’s great
- Inverter compressor for quiet and efficient operation
- Frost-free design with built-in ice maker
- Reversible door fits flexible layouts
Good to know
- Ice production slows in warm environments
- Freezer lacks interior dividers
9. BLACK+DECKER 18.1 Cu. Ft. Top Mount Refrigerator
The BLACK+DECKER 18.1 cu. ft. top mount refrigerator offers an entry-level price point while still including a built-in ice maker that produces 3.5 lbs of ice per day. The frost-free auto-defrost system removes the chore of manual defrosting. The adjustable temperature control lets you set cooling levels for both the refrigerator and freezer sections independently.
The ENERGY STAR certification means this model meets federal efficiency standards, and the annual energy consumption of 450 kWh is respectable for an 18 cu. ft. unit. The reversible door gives flexibility for installation. The full-width top freezer provides a single large compartment, while the refrigerator section has glass shelves and door bins for organization.
User feedback indicates that the ice maker functions reliably but the bin capacity is modest — you may need to empty it more frequently during gatherings. The compressor is a conventional reciprocating unit, which is typical at this price tier and can be audible during the cooling cycle.
Why it’s great
- Built-in ice maker at a budget-friendly price
- Frost-free defrost for low maintenance
- ENERGY STAR certified with 450 kWh/year usage
Good to know
- Ice bin capacity is limited
- Reciprocating compressor is audible
10. Avanti 15.6 cu. ft. Side-by-Side Apartment Refrigerator
The Avanti 15.6 cu. ft. side-by-side refrigerator divides 9.5 cu. ft. for fresh food and 6.1 cu. ft. for frozen storage — a slightly higher freezer-to-fridge ratio than typical, which benefits users who stock bulk frozen items. The electronic temperature control front panel lets you read and adjust both zones without opening doors. Three adjustable glass shelves in the refrigerator and clear-view crispers provide basic organization.
This model does not include a built-in ice maker, but the side-by-side layout leaves room for a countertop ice maker on the door or an aftermarket unit in the freezer if you choose to retrofit. The stainless steel doors with recessed handles give a modern aesthetic that fits apartments and vacation homes. Annual energy consumption of 460 kWh is reasonable for a 15.6 cu. ft. unit.
Users report that the compressor runs quietly and the doors seal well. The freezer column is narrow — standard frozen pizza boxes may not fit flat across the width because the ice maker modules and door bins reduce usable space. Measuring your frozen items against the interior width is essential before purchase.
Why it’s great
- Compact footprint for small spaces
- Electronic temperature display with dual-zone control
- Generous 6.1 cu. ft. freezer for its size
Good to know
- No built-in ice maker
- Freezer width may not fit large frozen pizzas flat
11. Kenmore 30″ Top Mount Refrigerator with Freezer
The Kenmore 20.2 cu. ft. top mount refrigerator is built with a garage-ready temperature sensor that maintains consistent performance in environments from 45°F to 110°F. The inverter compressor adjusts cooling output to match load, which improves efficiency in extreme temperatures. The top freezer section includes an ice maker, though the production rate is not specified by the manufacturer.
The 30-inch width makes it suitable for standard residential cutouts, but the garage-ready spec means it can function as a secondary refrigerator in unconditioned spaces. Adjustable spill-proof glass shelves and six door bins provide flexible organization. The ENERGY STAR certification with annual consumption of 382 kWh makes this a highly efficient option for a 20 cu. ft. unit.
User feedback is limited due to recent release, but the Kenmore brand has a long warranty service network through Sears and independent repair shops. The top mount design means the freezer door is at eye level, which is convenient for accessing frozen items. The ice maker takes up space on the left side of the freezer, so full-width shelf space is reduced.
Why it’s great
- Garage ready — operates in 45°F to 110°F
- Very low energy consumption at 382 kWh/year
- Inverter compressor for quiet operation
Good to know
- Ice maker occupies freezer shelf space
- Recent model with limited long-term reliability data
12. Frigidaire FRFS2823A 36 Inch Wide 27.8 Cu. Ft. French Door Refrigerator
The Frigidaire FRFS2823A delivers a large 27.8 cu. ft. capacity with a filtered water and ice dispenser on the front door that delivers chilled water plus cubed and crushed ice. The 18.8 cu. ft. fresh food section and 9.0 cu. ft. freezer provide generous storage for large households. Adjustable shelves and crispers give organization flexibility, and the LED lighting illuminates the interior evenly.
ENERGY STAR certification and Sabbath mode add value for specific use cases. The door alarm alerts if the door is left ajar. However, customer feedback over extended ownership is concerning — multiple reports indicate the refrigerator has a tendency to freeze food at the back of shelves and in crispers, and the ice maker has shown reliability issues with recurring failures every three months in some units. The water dispenser design has also been criticized for spilling.
Given these reliability reports, this model is a riskier purchase despite its capacity and features. Annual energy consumption of 725 kWh is typical for its size. If you choose this refrigerator, an extended warranty that covers the ice maker and compressor would be advisable.
Why it’s great
- Large 27.8 cu. ft. capacity
- External water and ice dispenser with cubed and crushed options
- ENERGY STAR certified with Sabbath mode
Good to know
- Ice maker reliability issues frequently reported
- Food freezing at back shelves is a common complaint
13. ICECASA 48″ W Commercial Reach-in Refrigerator 36 Cu. Ft.
The ICECASA 36 cu. ft. commercial reach-in refrigerator is built for bulk storage in large residential settings, garages, or home food prep areas. The fan cooling system reduces frost accumulation and maintains even distribution of cold air. The two solid stainless steel doors open side-by-side, and the interior shelving is adjustable — six shelves included, each rated to hold up to 90 lbs.
Intelligent temperature control maintains a range of 35°F to 43°F with a digital display. The automatic defrost cycle activates every four hours to prevent ice buildup. The all-stainless steel interior and exterior resist corrosion and are easy to sanitize. Heavy-duty wheels with brakes allow repositioning, which is useful in a shop or garage environment.
This unit does not include a built-in ice maker. It is a commercial-grade refrigerator designed for foodservice or serious home use where maximum cold storage is the priority. Annual energy consumption of 700 kWh is moderate given the 36 cu. ft. capacity. The 48-inch width requires significant floor space, and the 54.8-inch depth with doors open limits placement options.
Why it’s great
- Massive 36 cu. ft. capacity
- Commercial-grade all-stainless steel construction
- Fan cooling system for even temperatures
Good to know
- No built-in ice maker
- Large footprint requires careful measurement
FAQ
How many pounds of ice per day should I look for in a side-by-side refrigerator?
Will an ice maker in a side-by-side refrigerator fit standard gallon freezer bags?
Is an inverter compressor worth the extra cost for a refrigerator with an ice maker?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most users, the best side-by-side refrigerator with ice maker winner is the Antarctic Star French Door because it produces both nugget and cube ice, includes a water dispenser, and offers independent temperature control for both compartments. If you want a massive capacity with a Linear Compressor and smart features, grab the LG LMXS28626S. And for a quiet, counter-depth fit with dual compressors, nothing beats the Bosch 800 Series.












