Cabinet-depth and counter-depth fridges give the built-in look for less

Their shallower design results in a streamlined effect

Published: November 25, 2013 05:15 PM

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Refrigerators

Bosch Linea 800 B22CS80SN[S], $2,700

It's a great time to shop for a cabinet-depth refrigerator—or counter-depth, as they're often called. Consumer Reports' latest refrigerator Ratings are filled with these models, whose flush-to-the-countertop design results in a streamlined effect valued by many consumers. As a result, we're seeing cabinet-depth models hit stores in a wider range of styles and sizes, including the popular French-door configuration. Here are five models to consider if cabinet-depth is your key requirement.

Bosch Linea 800 B22CS80SN[S], $2,700. Paying more for this 36-inch-wide Bosch gets you our top-performing cabinet-depth fridge, with solid temperature performance and energy efficiency and exceptionally quiet operation. Other pluses include through-the-door ice and water dispensers, touchpad controls, and pullout shelves.

DCS RX215PJX1, $2,500. This 36-inch-wide side-by-side delivers superb temperature control and solid energy efficiency, though it's a bit noisier than other cabinet-depth models. Convenience features include touchpad controls, pullout shelves/bins, and a beverage chiller.

Samsung RF197AC[WP], $1,100. Most cabinet-depth models are 36 inches wide, but this well-priced Samsung comes in at 32 inches, making it a great fit for compact kitchens. The French-door model offers top temperature performance and its dual evaporators should help keep food fresh by maintaining optimal humidity.

LG LFX25991[ST], $3,400. The big tradeoff with cabinet-depth refrigerators is less capacity. But they are getting bigger, including this LG French-door bottom-freezer, with its 25 cubic feet of claimed capacity. The 36-inch-wide unit earned solid marks in our tests, offering superb temperature control and quietness plus solid energy efficiency and ease of use.

Frigidaire Professional FPHG2399M[F], $2,200. For maximum capacity in a cabinet-depth model, this Frigidaire French-door bottom-freezer is the way to go, boasting 15.5 cubic feet of usable capacity. The 36-inch-wide refrigerator also offers solid temperature control and superb energy efficiency.