For screen reader problems with this website, please call888-487-22988 8 8 4 8 7 2 2 9 8Standard carrier rates apply to texts.

    Blog

    7 Best Built-In Refrigerators This Year

    by WDC Kitchen & Bath Center

    Front view of a luxury kitchen with a Monogram built in refrigerator and a double wall oven on both sides

    Homeowners don't seek to install a built in refrigerator just to store food; rather, they might use it as a centerpiece of modern living. Designed to sit flush with your cabinets, these appliances offer a customized look with effortless elegance. Today, built in refrigerators are becoming more popular than ever, and it's easy to see why: the seamless design comes with practical features like adjustable shelving and energy-efficient operation. Many models even offer smart technology, making the fridge easier to manage.

    Front view of two built in Monogram refrigerators

    The bottom line is that built-in refrigerators are redefining what a fridge can do. So, let's look at the top built-in refrigerators available on the market this year to find one that perfectly balances innovation, functionality, and aesthetic appeal in your home.

    Explore Built In Refrigerators

    Upgrade your kitchen with a premium built in refrigerator from top brands available online or in-store, now!

    Shop Built In Refrigerators

    What is a Built In Refrigerator?

    A built in refrigerator is a type of appliance that can flawlessly fit into your cabinetry, aimed to create a flush, custom look that feels like a natural part of the kitchen. Unlike freestanding models that stand independently, these refrigerators are installed directly into the surrounding cabinets, often to optimize space.

    Front view of a luxury kitchen with a panel ready built in Sub-Zero refrigerator

    These appliances work like any standard refrigerator but usually include advanced features such as precise temperature zones, humidity-controlled drawers, and energy-efficient systems. Many models also offer quiet operation and smart technology.

    Here’s how a built-in refrigerator compares to other types of fridges:

    • Freestanding Refrigerators: Stand alone and can be moved easily. They are often less expensive but don’t provide the flush, seamless look of a built-in model.
    • Integrated Refrigerators: Fully concealed behind cabinetry panels for a completely uniform appearance. They prioritize aesthetics above all, sometimes at the expense of visible features or professional-style design.
    • Built-in Refrigerators: Installed directly into the cabinetry but remaining visible. A refrigerator built in the kitchen like this combines professional-grade style with practical features while maintaining a polished, seamless look.

    Consider built-in fridges as the bridge between freestanding and integrated ones, offering the seamlessness of integrated models while keeping the full practicality of a freestanding fridge.

    Best Brands for Built In Refrigerators

    Front view of a modern kitchen with a black KitchenAid built in refrigerator

    Now, let's explore some of the leading built in refrigerator brands in the market, highlighting their offerings and unique features. Click the ➕ to learn more about each brand and their built in fridges.

    ➕ Monogram

    Monogram Logo

    As a luxury brand under GE Appliances, Monogram may be one of the first brands you want to look at. GE Monogram built in refrigerator models include side-by-side and french door configurations. Fitting smoothly into cabinetry, the refrigerator sizes typically range from 36 to 48 inches in width, catering to various kitchen layouts.

    Top Features:

    • Advanced cooling systems for consistent temperature control.
    • Customizable storage solutions to accommodate diverse food items.
    • Smart connectivity for remote monitoring and control.

    ➕ Bosch Benchmark

    Bosch Benchmark Logo

    Bosch Benchmark is known for precision engineering and modern design. The Bosch built in refrigerator models include french door and bottom-freezer options, generally 30 to 36 inches wide. These refrigerators are designed for energy efficiency and flexible storage, smoothly occupying a unique space in a range of kitchen styles.

    Top Features:

    • Remote monitoring and control capabilities
    • ENERGYSTAR® certified efficiency
    • Spacious interiors with adaptable shelving

    ➕ GE Profile

    GE Profile logo

    Another popular brand, GE Profile also has various models of built in refrigerators, with side-by-side and french door configuration options. The widths vary from 36 to 42 inches. There are few refrigerators that beat GE Profile's strengths to make food storage easier and more convenient, especially the smart connectivity features.

    Top Features:

    • Hands-free autofill for added convenience.
    • Advanced water filtration systems.
    • Smart connectivity for remote monitoring and control

    ➕ Fisher & Paykel

    Fisher & Paykel Logo

    Fisher & Paykel, the pride of New Zealand, is celebrated for its innovation and user-friendliness. Their refrigerators built in consist mainly of french door models, ranging from 30 to 36 inches wide, which maximizes storage and renders your kitchen look clean. It also has the added advantage of being more affordable among the premium models.

    Top Features:

    • Energy-efficient design with ENERGY STAR® certification.
    • Flexible storage solutions to accommodate diverse food items.
    • Seamless integration into cabinetry for a sleek look.

    ➕ Sub-Zero

    Sub-Zero Logo

    For homeowners with room to splurge, Sub-Zero will give them the ultimate satisfaction. A luxury brand recognized for professional-grade performance, their built-in refrigerators include french door, bottom freezer, and column models from 36 to 48 inches wide. Sub-Zero focuses on dual refrigeration systems and advanced air purification to ensure superior food preservation.

    Top Features:

    • Dual refrigeration for optimal preservation.
    • Air purification to reduce odors.
    • Integrated design for a custom look.

    ➕ Thermador

    Thermador Logo

    As one of the higher-end brands out there, Thermador rarely disappoints. Its products are crafted especially for those looking for advanced features and modern aesthetics. The built-in refrigerators from this brand come in column and multi-door models, with widths ranging from 18 to 48 inches. The 36-inch models offer spacious interiors with customizable configurations.

    Top Features:

    • Consistent cooling technology.
    • Flexible storage options.
    • Sleek integration into kitchen cabinetry.

    ➕ KitchenAid

    KitchenAid Logo

    KitchenAid sits comfortably in the middle tier, price-wise, although you can still rely on it for professional-style features. Positioned as aspirational but more mainstream, the KitchenAid built in refrigerator models include french door and side-by-side configurations ranging from 36 to 42 inches wide. The cooling technology is reliable, and the design is streamlined.

    Top Features:

    • Adjustable shelving for flexible storage.
    • Advanced cooling for optimal food preservation.
    • Seamless integration into cabinetry.

    7 Best Built In Refrigerators

    We’ve rounded up seven of the top built in refrigerator models of the year, each offering unique features to suit a variety of needs and kitchen layouts.

    Monogram® 48 in. 28.6 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Built In Counter Depth Side-by-Side Refrigerator

    Front view of the Monogram® 48 in. 28.6 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Built In Counter Depth Side-by-Side Refrigerator

    Shop this Monogram® Built In Refrigerator

    The Monogram 48" built in refrigerator is spacious (with a capacity of 28.6 cu. ft.). There's enough room for both fresh food and frozen items, perfect for larger households. The advanced temperature management and climate-control drawer guarantee precise cooling for a variety of foods. Designed to complement cabinetry, it combines modern style with practical features like full-extension drawers and bright LED lighting. This model rivals a french door built in refrigerator in convenience and performance, delivering professional-grade functionality with a polished look.

    Featured Monogram #ZISS480DNSS Review:

    "Very nice product. Very useful. Very clean lines. Very sleek." (Mainit)

    Bosch Benchmark® Series 36 in. 19.4 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Built In Counter Depth French Door Refrigerator

    Front view of the Bosch Benchmark® Series 36 in. 19.4 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Built In Counter Depth French Door Refrigerator

    Shop this Bosch Benchmark® Built In Refrigerator

    For anyone seeking ample storage without giving up on kitchen space, this Bosch Benchmark Series 36" built in refrigerator can serve them well. With a spacious 19.4 cu. ft. capacity, it's also equipped with the MultiAirFlow™ system for even cooling throughout. Meanwhile, the dual evaporators maintain optimal humidity levels for the ultimate freshness. The refrigerator's design features flush-mount doors with an OptiFlex® hinge. Backed by Bosch's reputation for durability, it comes with a comprehensive warranty, providing peace of mind for years to come.

    GE Profile™ 48 in. 28.7 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Built In Counter Depth Side-by-Side Refrigerator

    Front view of the GE Profile™ 48 in. 28.7 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Built In Counter Depth Side-by-Side Refrigerator

    Shop this GE Profile™ Built In Refrigerator

    GE Profile is popular for a good reason: even large households or frequent entertainers can't complain about the generous storage of this built-in side-by-side fridge. Thanks to the advanced features that include adjustable spill-proof glass shelves, a climate-controlled drawer with three temperature settings, and a built-in WiFi system for remote monitoring and control, it's awesome in both function and form. Besides its streamlined appearance, this unit also boasts an external filtered water and ice dispenser for enhanced convenience.

    Featured GE Profile #PSB48YSNSS Review:

    "A great fridge, works well, and the link to the app is super helpful. We upgraded the water dispenser with an automatic pouring version from a higher model and now it's perfect." (ekke57)

    Fisher & Paykel Series 7 36 in. 16.8 Cu. Ft. Panel Ready Built In French Door Refrigerator

    Front view of the Fisher & Paykel Series 7 36 in. 16.8 Cu. Ft. Panel Ready Built In French Door Refrigerator

    Shop this Fisher & Paykel Built In Refrigerator

    Trust Fisher & Paykel for its maximum reliability. This built in french door refrigerator is roomy—11.7 cu. ft. is dedicated to fresh food and 5.1 cu. ft. for the freezer. Households ranging from medium to large benefit most from it, especially with the ActiveSmart™ technology that adapts to daily usage, ensuring optimal cooling and energy efficiency. The refrigerator's design allows for custom panel installation, providing a harmonious fusion with kitchen cabinetry. Better yet, it has a 2-year parts and labor warranty, with an additional 3 years covering the sealed refrigeration system, offering peace of mind for years to come.

    Featured Fisher & Paykel #RS36A72J1 N Review:

    "Excellent refrigerator; keeps food fresh. Freezer accommodates most package sizes, and the ice maker is flawless." (Ed G.)

    Sub-Zero® Classic Series 48 in. 29.1 Cu. Ft. Panel Ready Side-by-Side Refrigerator

    Front view of the Sub-Zero® Classic Series 48" 29.1 Cu. Ft. Panel Ready Side-by-Side Refrigerator

    Shop this Sub-Zero® Built In Refrigerator

    Indulge in high-end comfort and function with this Sub-Zero unit, a premium built-in refrigerator presenting a generous 28.8 cu. ft. capacity, that you can split between fresh food (at 18.7 cu. ft.) and frozen items (at 10.4 cu. ft.). Its Split Climate™ intelligent cooling system promises optimal temperature and humidity levels, but it's the design that is truly marvelous, allowing custom panel installation for a harmonious blend with the cabinetry. For its price, Sub-Zero also reassures you with a comprehensive warranty and a strong reputation for durability.

    Thermador® Freedom® 24" 13.0 Cu. Ft. Panel Ready Built-In Column Refrigerator

    Front view of the Thermador® Freedom® 24" 13.0 Cu. Ft. Panel Ready Built-In Column Refrigerator

    Shop this Thermador® Freedom® Built In Refrigerator

    In the same vein as Sub-Zero, Thermador Freedom® line also offers you a high-performance fridge that combines innovative cooling technology with a sophisticated appearance. While it is smaller than most in capacity at only 13.0 cu. ft. capacity, there's still enough room for fresh foods, which you can access quickly and easily. Equipped with the ThermaFresh® system, the temperature and humidity levels are consistent; produce and perishables last longer here. Thermador is also built for durability, so you can be confident that it will merge nicely into the custom cabinetry.

    KitchenAid® 42" 24.2Cu. Ft. PrintShield™ Stainless Steel Built-In French Door Refrigerator

    Front view of the KitchenAid® 42" 24.2 Cu. Ft. PrintShield™ Stainless Steel Built-In French Door Refrigerator

    Shop this KitchenAid® Built In Refrigerator

    This KitchenAid 42" built in refrigerator is a solid offering from the brand, with a capacity of 24.2 cu. ft. capacity for busy, small-to-medium households. Keep produce crisp and dairy items fresh longer with the Preserva® Food Care System that uses dual cooling to maintain optimal humidity and temperature. The twin performance of function and visual appeal continues with the built-in ice maker and adjustable shelving. But the highlight is the interior; it features a refined platinum finish with metallic accents, plus LED lighting for clear visibility throughout the compartments.

    Built-In Refrigerator FAQs

    Yes, a built-in refrigerator can offer a clean, professional look and a flush fit with cabinetry. They often feature advanced cooling, energy efficiency, and flexible storage. They’re ideal for larger households or frequent entertainers.

    Built-in refrigerators are visible but sit flush with cabinets. Integrated models are fully hidden behind panels. Both save space, but integrated units blend completely into the kitchen design.

    Higher cost comes from custom design, professional-grade components, and advanced features like precise cooling and smart technology. Installation often requires specialized cabinetry.

    No, only models designed for built-in installation should be used. Standard refrigerators may not fit properly or ventilate correctly, affecting performance and safety.

    Visit WDC Kitchen & Bath Center for a wide selection of built-in refrigerators. You can browse brands, sizes, and professional-grade features online or contact us for advice.

    Why Trust WDC?

    At WDC Kitchen & Bath Center, we’ve been proudly serving Southern California since 1981. What began as a small family business has grown into one of the largest independently owned kitchen and bath showrooms in the region, rooted in family values and exceptional service. With locations throughout Ventura, Los Angeles, and Santa Barbara counties, our team of knowledgeable professionals is dedicated to helping you bring your dream kitchen or bath to life. 

    Our expansive showrooms feature live kitchens, beautifully curated displays, and products from the industry's most trusted brands. At WDC, we believe every customer deserves personalized attention, high-quality products, and a trusted partner every step of the way.

    Shop Kitchen Appliances in Southern California

    Have questions about choosing the right kitchen appliance for your home? The WDC team is here to help! When you're browsing for built in refrigerators or planning a full remodel, our friendly staff is ready to guide you. Visit one of our showrooms or call us at 888-487-2298.

    → Learn more: Sub Zero Cabinet Depth Refrigerator Guide: Models, Prices & Installation