When you're looking for a new refrigerator, especially one that fits neatly into your kitchen's design, the term "counter depth" likely pops up. It's a bit of a sweet spot for many homeowners, offering a sleeker look without sacrificing too much storage. But what if you also really want that built-in ice maker convenience? Suddenly, the search gets a little more specific.
Finding the Best Counter Depth Refrigerator With Ice Maker requires digging into models that balance space-saving design with essential features.
After diving deep into what makes a counter-depth fridge with an ice maker truly great, it’s clear that thoughtful design and reliable performance are key. We’ve sifted through the options to highlight refrigerators that don't just look good, but also function beautifully for everyday life. Get ready to discover which models stand out for their capacity, ice production, and overall value.
Comparison Chart of Best Counter Depth Refrigerator With Ice Maker
List of Top 10 Best Best Counter Depth Refrigerator With Ice Maker
We evaluated each refrigerator based on its capacity, ice-making capabilities, energy efficiency ratings, and overall user feedback regarding build quality and ease of use. We prioritized models that offer a good balance of features for their price point, ensuring you get a refrigerator that’s both practical and a stylish addition to your kitchen.
Below are the list of products:
1. Summit 24" Refrigerator 11.7 cu.ft Capacity
This Summit refrigerator is designed to give you ample storage without protruding past your countertops. Its stainless steel finish adds a touch of modern elegance, making it a great fit for contemporary kitchens. The integrated ice maker ensures you always have a fresh supply of ice on hand.
Why I picked it
This model from Summit stands out for its efficient use of space, offering a substantial 11.7 cubic feet of storage within a standard 24-inch width. It’s a fantastic option for smaller kitchens or apartments where maximizing every inch is crucial, and the built-in ice maker adds convenience without taking up too much internal space.
Key specs
- Capacity: 11.7 cu.ft.
- Width: 24 inches
- Depth: Counter-depth design
- Finish: Stainless Steel
- Ice Maker: Integrated
- Freezer Location: Bottom Freezer
Real-world experience
Users often praise this refrigerator for its ability to fit seamlessly into tight spaces, providing a clean, built-in look that many search for in counter-depth models. The ice maker is generally reported to be reliable, though its capacity might be more suited for moderate daily use rather than large gatherings.
Trade-offs
The specific internal layout might require some adjustment for those accustomed to larger, full-depth refrigerators, and the 11.7 cu.ft. capacity, while generous for its size, could feel a bit limited for very large families or frequent bulk grocery shoppers.
2. Summit 28" Refrigerator Freezer With Icemaker
For a slightly larger footprint that still maintains a counter-depth profile, this 28-inch Summit model offers more room. It features a sleek stainless steel finish and a convenient bottom freezer, making it easy to access your refrigerated items. The built-in icemaker is a key feature for everyday convenience.
Why I picked it
This Summit appliance is a standout for those needing a bit more refrigerator space than a 24-inch model offers, without compromising on the flush, built-in look. Its 28-inch width provides a noticeable bump in cubic footage, making it more practical for families or individuals who tend to store more groceries, and it still integrates a useful ice maker.
Key specs
- Width: 28 inches
- Depth: Counter-depth design
- Finish: Stainless Steel
- Ice Maker: Integrated
- Freezer Location: Bottom Freezer
- Capacity: Not explicitly stated, but larger than 24" models
Real-world experience
Verified buyers often mention that this slightly wider unit offers a much-appreciated increase in fresh food storage capacity. The counter-depth aesthetic is consistently highlighted as a major plus, preventing the appliance from overwhelming the kitchen space. The icemaker functionality is generally reliable for daily needs.
Trade-offs
While larger than the 24-inch option, it still has limitations compared to full-depth refrigerators, meaning very large items like commercial baking sheets might not fit horizontally. The 28-inch width might also be too wide for some limited kitchen alcoves.
3. Summit Appliance FF1089PLIM 24" Wide Top
This 24-inch Summit refrigerator features a top-mount freezer, a classic layout that many users find intuitive. It boasts a stainless steel look and frost-free operation, designed to fit flush with your countertops. An ice maker is included, adding to its convenience without disrupting the sleek exterior.
Why I picked it
This Summit model is a strong contender for those who prefer the traditional top-freezer layout combined with a counter-depth design and the essential ice maker. Its 10 cu.ft. capacity is practical for smaller households, and it’s noted for being ADA compliant, which is a thoughtful inclusion for accessibility.
Key specs
- Capacity: 10 cu.ft.
- Width: 24 inches
- Depth: Counter-depth
- Freezer Location: Top Mount
- Ice Maker: Included
- Frost-free Operation: Yes
- ADA Compliant: Yes
Real-world experience
Reviewers appreciate the classic layout of this refrigerator, finding it easy to organize and access both fresh and frozen items. The compact size makes it ideal for galley kitchens, small apartments, or even as a secondary refrigerator. The included ice maker is noted as a convenient addition for everyday use.
Trade-offs
The 10 cu.ft. capacity is on the smaller side, so it might not be sufficient for families or those who entertain frequently. Top-freezer models also mean bending down more often to access fresh food.
4. Frigidaire 26 Lbs per Day Portable
While not a built-in refrigerator, this Frigidaire portable ice maker is a fantastic companion for those who need an abundant supply of ice, especially if their primary refrigerator's ice maker is insufficient or non-existent. Its stainless steel finish looks sleek on any countertop. It's designed for quick ice production.
Why I picked it
Although it's not a refrigerator itself, this portable ice maker from Frigidaire is an excellent addition if you're looking to boost your ice-making capacity significantly, perhaps for entertaining or if your current fridge's ice maker is slow. It's designed for rapid production and a stainless steel finish makes it look good in any kitchen setting.
Key specs
- Ice Production: 26 lbs per day
- Type: Portable Countertop Ice Maker
- Finish: Stainless Steel
- Size: Medium
- Ice Shape: Standard ice cubes
Real-world experience
Users frequently mention how quickly this unit produces ice, often within minutes of starting it up. It's a popular choice for home bars, RVs, boats, or even just as a backup for busy households. The stainless steel exterior is noted to be easy to wipe clean and maintain.
Trade-offs
As a standalone unit, it requires manual refilling of water and emptying of ice. It also takes up valuable counter space, so it’s best suited for those who need a high volume of ice and have dedicated space for it. It's not a replacement for a refrigerator's primary cooling function.
5. Summit 28" Refrigerator Freezer With Icemaker (Left Handed Door Swing)
This is a variant of the 28-inch Summit model, specifically featuring a left-handed door swing. This alternative configuration can be crucial for kitchens with specific layouts where a standard right-hand swing wouldn't be practical. It offers the same counter-depth design and integrated icemaker for a seamless look and convenience.
Why I picked it
This model is essential for anyone whose kitchen layout dictates a specific door swing. Having a counter-depth refrigerator with an integrated ice maker available in a left-hand swing configuration means you don't have to compromise on aesthetics or functionality to fit your specific space.
Key specs
- Width: 28 inches
- Depth: Counter-depth design
- Finish: Stainless Steel
- Ice Maker: Integrated
- Freezer Location: Bottom Freezer
- Door Swing: Left-handed
Real-world experience
For users with kitchens where a standard right-swing door would impede traffic flow or cabinetry, this left-swing option is a lifesaver. It provides the same benefits as its right-swing counterpart in terms of capacity and style, but with the crucial added benefit of accommodating specific installation requirements.
Trade-offs
The primary limitation is the directional constraint of the door swing, meaning it's only suitable if a left-hand swing is required. Otherwise, it offers the same capacity considerations as other 28-inch models.
6. EUHOMY Nugget Ice Maker Countertop Handle
When you think of a "counter-depth refrigerator with an ice maker," you might be picturing a full-sized appliance. However, the EUHOMY Nugget Ice Maker offers a different approach to the ice-making component, focusing on producing desirable "nugget" or "sonic" ice. This unit is compact, portable, and designed for rapid ice production, perfect for supplementing a refrigerator or for use in smaller spaces.
Why I picked it
This EUHOMY offers a specialized ice-making solution. If your primary concern is getting "chewy" or "sonic" ice that many people love for drinks, and you either don't have an ice maker in your counter-depth fridge or need more capacity, this countertop unit delivers. Its portability means it's versatile for different uses.
Key specs
- Ice Type: Nugget/Sonic ice
- Production: Ready in 6 mins, 34 lbs per day
- Features: Removable top cover, auto-cleaning, handle
- Portability: Designed for home, party, RV, camping
- Color: Black
Real-world experience
Enthusiasts of nugget ice rave about this machine's ability to produce that softer, chewable ice quickly. It’s particularly popular for crafting cocktails or simply enjoying cold beverages. The auto-cleaning function is a frequently praised convenience feature that simplifies maintenance.
Trade-offs
This is an ice-only device; it does not refrigerate food. It requires manual water refilling and also takes up counter space. The "nugget ice" style is different from standard crescent or cubed ice, which might not be preferred by everyone.
7. FRIGIDAIRE EFIC128AMZBLK Compact Countertop Ice Maker
Another excellent dedicated ice maker option, this Frigidaire model delivers a substantial amount of ice per day, fitting neatly onto a countertop. It's designed for efficiency and produces ice quickly, making it a great accessory for any kitchen, especially if the built-in ice maker in your counter-depth refrigerator isn't quite cutting it. The black finish offers a sleek look.
Why I picked it
This Frigidaire model is a workhorse for ice production, capable of making up to 26 pounds of ice daily. It’s a practical solution for anyone who entertains frequently or finds their built-in refrigerator ice maker doesn't keep up with demand. The compact size and black finish make it a stylish addition to any kitchen counter.
Key specs
- Ice Production: 26 lbs per day
- Type: Compact Countertop Ice Maker
- Color: Black
- Design: Sleek, modern
Real-world experience
Customers often note this unit's speed in producing ice, with some reporting the first batch available in under 10 minutes. It's considered reliable for keeping a steady supply of ice, making it a popular choice for gatherings or for households that use a lot of ice in beverages.
Trade-offs
Like other countertop units, it needs to be filled with water manually and the ice needs to be transferred. It also occupies counter space. The ice produced is typically standard cube shape, rather than the softer nugget ice.
8. Nugget Ice Maker Countertop
This Silonn branded ice maker focuses specifically on producing the popular nugget-style ice. It's designed for efficiency, promising ice in as little as 6 minutes. The unit is portable and features an auto-cleaning function, making it a convenient way to get your desired ice type without needing a specialized refrigerator.
Why I picked it
For those who specifically crave the texture and convenience of pellet or "nugget" ice, this Silonn model is a highly regarded option. It not only produces this popular ice type quickly but also includes a self-cleaning function, making it a low-maintenance choice for enhancing your beverage experience.
Key specs
- Ice Type: Nugget/Pellet ice
- Production: 36 lbs/24H
- Features: Self-cleaning function, portable design
- Suitable for: Home kitchen, office
- Color: Black
Real-world experience
Many users are delighted with the quality and speed of the nugget ice production from this unit. It's often cited as a great solution for turning a standard refrigerator into one with a sought-after ice feature, without the higher cost or depth commitment of a full-sized appliance. The self-cleaning mode is a definite plus for regular users.
Trade-offs
This unit is solely for ice production and not for refrigeration. It requires manual water filling and ice collection. The 36 lbs/day capacity is significant, but it is a countertop appliance, so it takes up space.
9. FRIGIDAIRE Touchscreen Nugget Ice Maker
The Frigidaire brand reappears with a touchscreen-enabled nugget ice maker, bringing a modern interface to ice production. This unit boasts a considerable ice capacity per day and features a sleek "Slate" finish. It offers another excellent pathway to delicious nugget ice for your drinks, complementing a counter-depth refrigerator's design.
Why I picked it
This Frigidaire unit combines the desirable nugget ice with a modern touchscreen interface, adding a touch of sophistication to its functionality. Its capacity and ease of use make it a strong contender for anyone looking to upgrade their ice-making capabilities, especially for crafting cocktails or enjoying drinks with that special "sonic" ice texture.
Key specs
- Ice Type: Nugget ice
- Capacity: 33 lbs per day
- Control: Touchscreen
- Finish: Slate
- Features: Sonic Ice Maker
Real-world experience
The intuitive touchscreen controls are a highlight for many users, simplifying operation and status checks. It's praised for producing consistently good nugget ice, meeting the expectations of those who prefer this type of ice for their beverages. The slate finish is also a popular aesthetic choice.
Trade-offs
This is a dedicated ice maker and does not provide refrigeration. It requires regular cleaning and has the usual countertop appliance limitations of needing manual water refills and ice removal.
10. Frigidaire EFIC103-AMZ-SC Counter Top Maker Over-Sized
Rounding out our list is another Frigidaire, this one noted for its self-cleaning function and an over-sized ice bucket. It’s a robust countertop solution for high-volume ice needs, fitting well into a kitchen that already has a counter-depth refrigerator. The stainless steel build speaks to its durability and ease of maintenance.
Why I picked it
This Frigidaire unit is a practical choice for those who need consistent ice production and appreciate the convenience of self-cleaning. The over-sized ice bucket is a bonus for entertaining or for households that consume a lot of ice, making it a reliable supplement to any kitchen setup, especially alongside a counter-depth refrigerator.
Key specs
- Features: Self-cleaning function, Over-sized ice bucket
- Construction: Stainless Steel
- Type: Countertop Ice Maker
- Durability: Heavy Duty
Real-world experience
The self-cleaning feature is a major selling point, as it significantly reduces the manual upkeep required for ice makers. Users also find the larger ice bucket capacity extremely useful for hosting parties or simply ensuring they don't run out of ice during busy periods.
Trade-offs
This is an ice maker only, not a refrigerator. It requires manual water filling and ice collection, despite the larger bucket. It also demands dedicated counter space.
How I picked
When looking for the best counter-depth refrigerator with an ice maker, I focused on a few key areas that make a real difference in daily use. First off, capacity is crucial; you need enough space for your groceries without the fridge sticking out like a sore thumb. I evaluated models based on their cubic footage, aiming for options that offered the most storage within the counter-depth constraint.
Then, of course, there's the ice maker. I looked at how integrated it was, its daily production rate, and any reports related to its reliability. This wasn't just about having ice, but about having ice readily available when you need it, whether it's for a quick drink or for a large gathering. I also considered the overall build quality, materials like stainless steel, and features that enhance usability, such as adjustable shelving and intuitive controls.
Finally, I paid close attention to user feedback regarding ease of installation, noise levels, and long-term performance. While I didn't conduct long-term durability tests beyond the typical review period, I analyzed aggregate user experiences and manufacturer specifications to gauge how well these units tend to hold up over time. This holistic approach helped me narrow down the options to those that offer the best blend of form and function.
Buying guide — what actually matters for Best Counter Depth Refrigerator With Ice Maker
Choosing a counter-depth refrigerator with an ice maker involves balancing aesthetics with practical functionality. It’s about finding a unit that fits your kitchen’s design flow while reliably meeting your household’s needs.
Understand Counter Depth vs. Full Depth
Counter-depth refrigerators are designed to sit flush with your countertops, creating a built-in look and preventing the appliance from protruding into your kitchen space. Full-depth refrigerators are typically deeper and offer more interior storage space but can stick out significantly from the counter line. For a sleeker kitchen aesthetic, counter-depth is usually the preferred choice.
Evaluate Ice Maker Type and Capacity
Not all ice makers are created equal. Some refrigerators have integrated ice makers in the freezer compartment, while others might have them in the door. Consider how much ice your household typically consumes. Check the manufacturer's specifications for daily ice production rates (often measured in pounds per day) and the ice bin's storage capacity.
If you entertain frequently or use a lot of ice, a higher production rate will be beneficial.
Consider Total Capacity and Usable Space
While counter-depth refrigerators offer a streamlined look, they generally have less interior space than full-depth models of the same exterior width. Look at the total cubic footage, but also consider how the interior is designed. Adjustable shelves, door bins, and specialized drawers can make a big difference in how usable the space actually is for your specific needs, from storing produce to fitting large platters.
Focus on Energy Efficiency
Refrigerators are one of the most consistently running appliances in your home, so energy efficiency is important. Look for Energy Star certified models, which meet strict energy-saving guidelines set by the EPA. While a higher upfront cost might be associated with more efficient models, the long-term savings on your electricity bill can be substantial.
Don't Forget About Noise Levels and Maintenance
A refrigerator’s compressor and ice maker can produce noise. If your kitchen is open to living areas, quieter models might be a higher priority. Also, consider the maintenance required. Features like frost-free operation, self-cleaning ice makers (for countertop units), and easily accessible filters can simplify upkeep.
Hinges and Door Swing
For counter-depth models, especially in tighter kitchens, the direction of the door swing can be critical. Ensure the door opens in a way that doesn't obstruct common pathways or cabinetry. Some models offer reversible doors, or you might need to specifically choose a left-hand or right-hand swing configuration to best suit your kitchen layout.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the difference between counter-depth and standard refrigerators?
The primary difference lies in their depth. Counter-depth refrigerators are designed to be the same depth as your kitchen countertops, typically around 24 inches, giving your kitchen a more built-in and seamless look. Standard or full-depth refrigerators are usually deeper, around 30-36 inches, offering more interior storage but often protruding beyond the countertop line.
How much ice can a typical refrigerator ice maker produce daily?
The daily ice production of refrigerator ice makers can vary significantly by model and manufacturer. Generally, smaller, more basic integrated ice makers might produce around 6 to 7 pounds of ice per day. Higher-capacity models, especially those designed for frequent use or entertaining, can produce anywhere from 10 to 30 pounds of ice per day.
Is a counter-depth refrigerator worth the extra cost for the aesthetic?
For many, the aesthetic benefit of a counter-depth refrigerator is well worth the cost. It provides a cleaner, more integrated look that enhances the overall design of a kitchen, making it feel more spacious and modern. If a sleek, built-in appearance is a top priority for your kitchen renovation or redesign, then the investment is often considered worthwhile.
Can I add an ice maker to a refrigerator that doesn't have one?
In some cases, it's possible to add an aftermarket ice maker kit to a refrigerator that didn't come with one factory-installed, especially if there's space in the freezer compartment. However, this can be a complex process, may affect the refrigerator's warranty, and doesn't always integrate as seamlessly or reliably as a factory-installed unit. For counter-depth refrigerators, this is often more challenging due to space constraints.
What are the pros and cons of a bottom freezer vs. a top freezer on a counter-depth refrigerator?
Bottom freezer models place the refrigerator section at eye level, making fresh foods more accessible without bending down, which many users find convenient. They often offer more flexible storage options in the fridge compartment. Top freezer models are typically more budget-friendly and can sometimes offer more usable freezer space for their size. The choice largely depends on personal preference and how you prioritize access to fresh versus frozen goods.
Final verdict
When it comes to finding a Best Counter Depth Refrigerator With Ice Maker, balancing a sleek, integrated look with the practical need for ice storage is key. For those prioritizing a clean kitchen aesthetic and efficient use of space, the Summit 24" Refrigerator 11.7 cu.ft Capacity stands out as an excellent Editor's Choice. It offers a substantial amount of storage within its narrow frame and includes a reliable ice maker.
If you're looking for a slightly larger capacity without sacrificing the counter-depth design, the Summit 28" Refrigerator Freezer With Icemaker is a fantastic Top Pick, providing that extra room for groceries. For budget-conscious buyers who still want the counter-depth look and an ice maker, the Summit Appliance FF1089PLIM 24" Wide Top offers good value and functionality.
Affiliate disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you buy through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It never changes my recommendation, I only suggest gear I'd actually buy myself.
