Finding the right side-by-side refrigerator means balancing capacity, ice and water features, kitchen fit, and finish. The choices below include two refrigerators with built-in ice makers, plus three related items that may help with installation or beverage storage but are not refrigerators. Check the product details carefully: one refrigerator is described as stainless steel, while the other has a stainless-steel-look finish.
| Product | Type | Ice and water features | Best suited for |
|---|---|---|---|
| SWPUREFR 10 ft Refrigerator Water Line Kit | Installation accessory | Water line for a compatible ice maker or dispenser | Installations needing a shorter connection |
| Kenmore 29 cu. ft. Side-by-Side Refrigerator | Side-by-side refrigerator | External filtered ice and water dispenser | Households that need generous storage |
| SWPUREFR 15 ft Refrigerator Water Line Kit | Installation accessory | Longer water line for a compatible ice maker or dispenser | Installations needing extra reach |
| JunVpic 64 oz Cold Brew Coffee Maker | Refrigerator beverage accessory | No ice maker; stores cold drinks | Cold brew, iced tea, and other chilled drinks |
| Electactic 18.1 cu. ft. Side-by-Side Refrigerator | Side-by-side refrigerator | Door dispenser for water, cubed ice, and crushed ice | Smaller kitchens needing an ice-and-water dispenser |
Our Picks: Best Side By Side Stainless Steel Refrigerator With Ice Maker reviews
SWPUREFR 10 ft Water Line Kit for a Shorter Installation
This is a water-line kit, not a refrigerator. It is intended to connect a compatible refrigerator, ice maker, or water dispenser to an existing water outlet. The kit includes 10 feet of tubing and a quarter-turn valve, so it may be useful when setting up a side-by-side refrigerator that requires a water connection.
The line has a food-grade PEX inner tube, a braided stainless steel outer layer, and brass quarter-inch compression fittings. The supplied description says it is compatible with major refrigerator brands, including Samsung, GE, LG, Whirlpool, and Frigidaire. Still, confirm that your refrigerator and shutoff connection use the right fittings before ordering.
Its main advantage over the 15-foot version below is the shorter length, which can help avoid extra tubing behind the appliance when the water source is nearby. The product description lists a maximum pressure of 200 psi. Installation depends on the existing plumbing and a secure connection; check carefully for leaks after setup.
Pros:
- Includes 10 feet of braided water line and a shutoff valve
- Food-grade PEX inner tubing and stainless steel outer braid
- Brass quarter-inch compression fittings are included
- May suit installations where a longer line would be unnecessary
Cons:
- It is an installation accessory, not an ice-making refrigerator
- Connection type and line length must match your plumbing layout
Verdict: Choose this kit only if you already have a compatible refrigerator and need a 10-foot water connection; it is not a substitute for the appliance itself.
Kenmore 29 cu. ft. Side-by-Side Refrigerator for Large Households
The Kenmore is the larger of the two refrigerators in this selection, with 29 cubic feet of listed capacity and a 36-inch width. Its fingerprint-resistant stainless-steel finish and traditional side-by-side layout make it a relevant option if you want a substantial refrigerator with an ice maker and external dispenser.
The ice maker is tucked into the freezer door to preserve shelf space, and the dispenser provides filtered ice and water. The product information says the ice maker can produce up to 3 pounds of ice per day. Accela Chill and Accela Freeze are designed to boost airflow to cool or freeze newly added groceries, while the Multi-Flow Air System circulates air across shelves.
Inside, the Kenmore has adjustable edge-to-edge glass shelves, four gallon-size door bins, crisper drawers, and seven shelves overall. LED lighting, an inverter compressor, and automatic defrost add everyday convenience. Its large capacity is a strength, but the 36-inch width means you should measure the opening, doorways, and clearance needed to open both doors before buying.
Pros:
- Large 29 cu. ft. capacity and 36-inch-wide format
- External dispenser supplies filtered ice and water
- Fingerprint-resistant stainless-steel finish
- Adjustable shelves, gallon-size door bins, and crisper drawers
Cons:
- Its wider footprint may not fit smaller kitchens
- Listed ice production is limited to up to 3 pounds per day
Verdict: This is the strongest match for shoppers who want a roomy, stainless-steel side-by-side with an external ice-and-water dispenser, provided the 36-inch width fits their kitchen.
SWPUREFR 15 ft Water Line Kit for More Reach
This 15-foot kit is another refrigerator water-line accessory, not a refrigerator. It is designed to connect a compatible ice maker, fridge, or water dispenser to a water supply. The extra five feet compared with the shorter kit may be helpful if the shutoff valve is farther from the appliance or the line needs to follow a longer route.
Its listed construction includes PEX tubing, a stainless steel braided outer layer, brass quarter-inch compression fittings, and a quarter-turn valve. The product description also lists a maximum pressure of 200 psi. Some users report that setup was straightforward, though installation ease will depend on access to the shutoff and whether the fittings match your setup.
More length can make positioning easier, but it can also leave extra tubing to manage behind the refrigerator. Measure the route from the water outlet to the connection point, allowing enough slack without creating a tight bend. Check the fittings and inspect for leaks after installation.
Pros:
- 15 feet of line for installations requiring more reach
- Includes a quarter-turn valve and brass compression fittings
- Braided stainless steel exterior and PEX inner tubing
- Some users report an uncomplicated installation
Cons:
- It is a water-line accessory, not a refrigerator
- Extra tubing may be unnecessary in a compact installation
Verdict: Pick this version over the 10-foot kit when your measured water-line route needs the added length and the connection type is compatible.
JunVpic 64 oz Cold Brew Pitcher for Chilled Drinks
The JunVpic pitcher is a beverage accessory, not a refrigerator or ice maker. Its 64-ounce glass body is intended for cold brew, iced tea, juice, and other chilled drinks. It may be useful alongside a refrigerator with an ice dispenser, but it does not connect to a water line or make ice.
The pitcher has a removable 304 stainless steel mesh filter, a sealed lid, and a flip top for pouring. Its wide opening is intended to make cleaning easier. The product description says its compact shape fits in most refrigerator doors, but door-bin dimensions vary, so measure your own shelf space before relying on that fit.
Glass keeps the pitcher separate from the refrigerator decision itself, and it needs careful handling compared with a water-line kit or built-in appliance. Consider it if you regularly prepare drinks in advance; skip it if your main goal is to choose a side-by-side fridge with an ice maker.
Pros:
- 64-ounce capacity for cold brew, tea, or other drinks
- Removable stainless steel mesh filter
- Wide opening intended to simplify cleaning
- Sealed lid and flip-top pouring design
Cons:
- It is not a refrigerator or ice maker
- Glass requires more careful handling than a refrigerator accessory made of flexible tubing
Verdict: Treat this as an optional drink-prep accessory, not as a contender for the best side-by-side refrigerator.
Electactic 18.1 cu. ft. Side-by-Side with Cubed and Crushed Ice
The Electactic is a freestanding side-by-side refrigerator with 18.1 cubic feet of total capacity: 12.1 cubic feet for fresh food and 6 cubic feet for the freezer. Its product description calls the finish a stainless-steel look, so shoppers seeking confirmed stainless steel should check the listing details before deciding.
A built-in door dispenser provides water, cubed ice, and crushed ice. The refrigerator also has a frost-free system, an inverter compressor, LED lighting, and adjustable slide-out shelves. The listed dimensions are 26.38 inches deep, 35.83 inches wide, and 69.69 inches high, which can help with fit planning. Measure your kitchen opening and account for door clearance before ordering.
The 18.1 cu. ft. capacity is much smaller than the Kenmore’s 29 cu. ft., making this a more compact option in terms of storage. The product information lists a noise level of 45 dB and a one-year warranty. It also includes a door-open alarm that sounds after 60 seconds and a child-lock feature. Confirm the power, water connection, and delivery requirements for your home before purchase.
Pros:
- Built-in dispenser offers water, cubed ice, and crushed ice
- Frost-free operation and inverter compressor
- Listed dimensions help shoppers check kitchen fit
- Adjustable slide-out shelves, LED lighting, and door-open alarm
Cons:
- Its 18.1 cu. ft. capacity is considerably smaller than the Kenmore’s
- Described as stainless-steel look rather than explicitly as stainless steel
Verdict: Consider the Electactic if you want a side-by-side with cubed and crushed ice in a smaller listed capacity, but verify the finish and installation requirements before buying.
How to Choose a Side-by-Side Stainless Steel Refrigerator with an Ice Maker
Confirm the Finish You Want
Stainless steel and stainless-steel-look finishes are not necessarily the same. The Kenmore is described as fingerprint-resistant stainless steel, while the Electactic is described as having a stainless-steel look. Check the product listing and finish details if matching other appliances matters to you.
Measure the Opening and Door Clearance
Measure the width, height, and depth of the space where the refrigerator will sit. Also check the path into your kitchen and whether the doors can open fully without hitting walls, cabinets, or an island. The Electactic’s listed dimensions are 26.38 inches deep, 35.83 inches wide, and 69.69 inches high. The Kenmore is listed as 36 inches wide; confirm its full dimensions and required clearances before purchase.
Choose Capacity for Your Household
The Kenmore lists 29 cubic feet of capacity, while the Electactic lists 18.1 cubic feet, divided into 12.1 cubic feet of refrigerator space and 6 cubic feet of freezer space. More capacity can suit larger grocery runs or households that store more food, but make sure the larger unit fits your kitchen and your needs.
Compare Ice and Water Dispensers
Both refrigerators in this selection have a door dispenser. The Kenmore provides filtered ice and water, with an ice maker listed as producing up to 3 pounds per day. The Electactic offers water, cubed ice, and crushed ice. Think about the type of ice you use and whether you want water filtration included with the appliance.
Check the Water Connection Before Installation
A refrigerator with a dispenser or ice maker may need a water connection. Confirm the appliance’s connection requirements and compare them with your existing shutoff valve and plumbing. The two SWPUREFR products are water-line kits, not refrigerators; one is 10 feet long and the other is 15 feet long. Measure the route and confirm fitting compatibility before choosing either kit. After installation, inspect the connections for leaks.
Consider Shelf Layout and Everyday Access
Side-by-side models divide fresh and frozen storage into tall, narrow compartments. Adjustable shelves and door bins can make it easier to organize items of different sizes. The Kenmore lists adjustable glass shelves and gallon-size door bins, while the Electactic lists adjustable slide-out shelves. Consider what you buy most often and whether it will fit comfortably in the shelf layout.
Review Operating and Safety Features
Features such as automatic defrost, frost-free operation, interior lighting, and door alarms can affect everyday use. The Kenmore lists automatic defrost and enhanced LED lighting; the Electactic lists a frost-free system, LED lights, and a door-open alarm. Compare the included features with what matters in your home rather than assuming every model includes the same functions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which product in this list is the best match for a stainless-steel side-by-side refrigerator?
The Kenmore is the clearest match based on the supplied information: it is a 29 cu. ft. side-by-side described as fingerprint-resistant stainless steel, with an external filtered ice-and-water dispenser. The Electactic is also a side-by-side refrigerator with an ice maker, but its finish is described as stainless-steel look.
Do all five products include a built-in ice maker?
No. The Kenmore and Electactic are refrigerators with ice makers. The SWPUREFR products are water-line kits, and the JunVpic is a cold brew pitcher. The pitcher can store chilled drinks, but it does not make ice.
What is the main difference between the Kenmore and Electactic refrigerators?
The Kenmore lists 29 cubic feet of capacity and a filtered ice-and-water dispenser. The Electactic lists 18.1 cubic feet and offers water, cubed ice, and crushed ice. Their finishes are also described differently: stainless steel for the Kenmore and stainless-steel look for the Electactic.
How do I decide between the 10-foot and 15-foot water lines?
Measure the full route from the water outlet to the refrigerator connection, including any path around cabinets. Choose a length that provides enough reach without leaving excessive tubing. Also confirm that your appliance and shutoff valve use compatible fittings.
Does the Kenmore’s ice maker have a stated production limit?
Yes. The product information says its ice maker can produce up to 3 pounds of ice per day. Actual suitability depends on how much ice your household uses and how the appliance is installed and operated.
What should I verify before ordering a refrigerator?
Check the full dimensions, delivery path, door swing, water connection requirements, finish, and available power connection. For the Electactic, the listed dimensions are 26.38 inches deep, 35.83 inches wide, and 69.69 inches high. Confirm that the appliance will fit both the installation space and the route into your home.
Final Recommendation
For a spacious side-by-side refrigerator explicitly described as stainless steel, the Kenmore is the strongest fit in this group, with 29 cubic feet of capacity and an external filtered ice-and-water dispenser. The Electactic is a smaller-capacity alternative with cubed and crushed ice, but its finish is described as stainless-steel look. The remaining products are accessories rather than refrigerators, so consider them only if you also need a water line or a cold-drink pitcher.
