What is a counter-depth refrigerator?

A counter-depth refrigerator is around 24–25 inches deep, about 9–10 inches less than a standard fridge. This is about the same depth as most kitchen counters, which means a counter-depth fridge will sit virtually flush with countertops, allowing you to create a built-in look with your cabinets.

Is a counter-depth refrigerator right for you and your family? Learn everything you need to know about counter-depth fridges, including how to measure your kitchen for one. Get answers to all your questions about counter-depth fridges:

What does counter-depth mean?

“Counter-depth” is the distance between your kitchen wall or backsplash and the front of your countertops, which is typically 24–25 inches. A counter-depth refrigerator is designed to match the depth of countertops, so that the front of the appliance aligns with the edge of the countertop. Considering a counter-depth fridge for your kitchen? Learn more about counter-depth refrigerator dimensions for a seamless installation.

Counter-depth vs. standard depth refrigerator

Counter-depth refrigerators are about 24–25 inches deep, approximately the same depth as kitchen counters. While counter-depth fridges are virtually flush with counters and cabinets, standard-depth refrigerators are typically 30–36 inches deep and can stick out half a foot or more past countertops. 

Learn about the difference between counter height vs. bar height.

Although depth is the main difference between counter-depth vs. standard sized refrigerators, countertop-depth fridges can also be a few inches wider or taller than regular refrigerators. This extra width or height can help make up for loss of depth and offer a similar capacity as a regular refrigerator but with a lower profile. 

With taller and wider dimensions, counter-depth refrigerators offer similar space and organizational benefits of a regular, full-size refrigerator. Designed not to stick out more than an inch or two past the surrounding counters or cabinets, counter-depth models also offer a more seamless integration into your existing kitchen layout. The larger capacity options can help you store everything you need to help move mealtimes along more smoothly.

What are the pros of a counter-depth refrigerator?

Counter-depth refrigerators can help you achieve a seamless and built-in look for your kitchen without the extra bulk. Learn about the many benefits of counter-depth fridges that fit right with your kitchen cabinets and decor.

• Reduced open depth: This shallow depth refrigerator style will give you more room to open the refrigerator doors without bumping into islands or other kitchen items.

• More aisle space: Counter-depth fridges give you a few more inches of space in front so it may be easier to move around the kitchen, even with multiple cooks—or kids or pets under foot.

• Low profile refrigerator, same capacity: You don’t have to sacrifice space for style. Since most counter-depth refrigerators are a little wider/taller vs standard refrigerators, they offer the same amount of usable space.

• Seamless integration: Refrigerators flush with cabinets provide a sleek, seamless style ideal for modern kitchens.

• Many styles: Like standard-depth, counter-depth refrigerators come in all types: French door, side-by-side, top-freezer and bottom-freezer.

Learn more about the different types of refrigerators to find the one that’s best for your kitchen.

How to measure for a counter-depth refrigerator

Are you ready to take advantage of the benefits of a counter-depth fridge? First, you’ll need to measure your kitchen space carefully to find a model with the best fit. Grab your tape measure and follow the tips below to get accurate measurements for your new counter-depth fridge.

Shop Whirlpool^® counter-depth refrigerators

Go counter-depth and get the sleek look you want with plenty of room for storage, while minimizing disruptions in your workflow. Explore French door and side-by-side counter-depth refrigerator models from Whirlpool brand.