Best picks

7 Best Smart Side-By-Side Refrigerator Under $2500 (October 2026)

Updated on · By the Cooksmithy team

On this page (6 sections)
  1. 3 Standout Picks: Advanced Cooling, Large Families, and Smart Features
  2. 7 Models Side by Side: Features, Best Use Cases, and Tradeoffs
  3. 7 Models Reviewed in Depth
  4. Fridge Intelligence: Navigating the World of Smart Side-by-Side Refrigerators
  5. Your Smart Fridge Decision, Simplified
  6. Final 3 Picks: Advanced Cooling, Large Families, and Smart Features

The best smart side-by-side refrigerators offer advanced cooling and connectivity features at accessible price points, with top contenders like the **LG 27 cu. ft. Standout picks include LG 27 cu. ft. Smart Refrigerator, Samsung 28 cu. ft. Smart Refrigerator, and Midea MRS25I7BST Refrigerator.

Smart Refrigerator** and the Samsung 28 cu. ft. Smart Refrigerator standing out for their performance and capacity. Choosing the right model means finding a blend of spacious storage, energy efficiency, and user-friendly technology that fits your household’s needs and budget, often well under $2500. These appliances are designed to streamline kitchen management, providing convenience and better food preservation.

We’ve sifted through numerous options to bring you our top 7 picks, evaluating each based on key performance metrics, smart home integration, and overall value. Our selection process focused on models that deliver the most bang for your buck, ensuring you can find an excellent smart side-by-side refrigerator for your home, most of which are available for under $2500. Dive into our detailed comparison to find the perfect fit for your kitchen.

3 Standout Picks: Advanced Cooling, Large Families, and Smart Features

Start with these 3 standouts. Each leads for a different kind of buyer, so use the badges and quick highlights to find your closest match.

7 Models Side by Side: Features, Best Use Cases, and Tradeoffs

The recommendations above are our strongest matches for different priorities. Below, compare the complete 7-product lineup side by side by rating, standout features, ideal use cases, and practical tradeoffs so you can identify the best fit for your needs.

#1
LG 27 cu. ft. Smart Refrigerator
LG 27 cu. ft. Smart Refrigerator
Advanced Cooling★4.2
  • InstaView Door
  • Craft Ice Maker
  • PrintProof Stainless Steel
Check Price on Amazon→
#2
Samsung 28 cu. ft. Smart Refrigerator
Samsung 28 cu. ft. Smart Refrigerator
Large Families★5.0
  • Large Capacity
  • WiFi Connectivity
  • Fingerprint-Resistant Finish
Check Price on Amazon→
#3
Midea MRS25I7BST Refrigerator
Midea MRS25I7BST Refrigerator
Smart Features★5.0
  • AutoFill Water Pitcher
  • Counter-Depth Design
  • Fingerprint-Resistant Stainless Steel
Check Price on Amazon→
#4
Upstreman SBS188 Refrigerator
Upstreman SBS188 Refrigerator
Quiet Operation★5.0
  • Frost-Free
  • Inverter Compressor
  • Digital Control Panel
Check Price on Amazon→
#5
Samsung 27.4 cu. ft. Refrigerator
Samsung 27.4 cu. ft. Refrigerator
Everyday Use★3.7
  • Large Capacity
  • All-Around Cooling
  • Fingerprint-Resistant Finish
Check Price on Amazon→
#6
Frigidaire 33" Side-by-Side
Frigidaire 33″ Side-by-Side
Reliable Cooling★3.7
  • Air Filter
  • LED Interior Lighting
  • Ice Maker
Check Price on Amazon→
#7
Forno Salerno 33-inch Refrigerator
Forno Salerno 33-inch Refrigerator
Compact Spaces★5.0
  • Counter-Depth Design
  • LED Touch Control
  • Fast Freeze/Cool
Check Price on Amazon→

7 Models Reviewed in Depth

#1. LG 27 cu. ft. Smart Refrigerator

LG 27 cu. ft. Smart Refrigerator
InstaView
Door
Craft
Ice
PrintProof
Stainless Steel
Advanced Cooling
92
OVERALL
SCORE
Capacity
9.5
Cooling Tech
9.2
Smart Features
9.0
Design
9.3
Check Price on Amazon→

This LG Smart Refrigerator is a standout with its impressive 27.1 cu. ft. capacity and innovative features like the InstaView door, allowing you to see inside without opening it. You’ll also enjoy the unique Craft Ice maker for perfectly round ice cubes, and the PrintProof stainless steel finish resists fingerprints and smudges, keeping it looking pristine. The linear compressor ensures efficient and quiet operation.

While this refrigerator offers top-tier features and a large capacity, it sits at the higher end of the budget. Its advanced cooling technology and smart capabilities make it ideal for tech-savvy homeowners who value convenience and aesthetics. If you’re looking for a premium appliance and can accommodate the price point, this LG model is a fantastic choice.

Pros

  • Innovative InstaView door
  • Unique Craft Ice maker
  • Large 27.1 cu. ft. capacity

Cons

  • Higher price point
  • Requires Wi-Fi for smart features
  • Craft ice maker can be slow

Specifications

Brand
LG
Capacity
27.1 cubic feet
Color
PrintProof Stainless Steel
Configuration
Side-by-Side
Dimensions
33.44″D x 35.88″W x 70.25″H
Special Feature
InstaView Door
Check Price on Amazon→

#2. Samsung 28 cu. ft. Smart Refrigerator

Samsung 28 cu. ft. Smart Refrigerator
Large
Capacity
WiFi
Connectivity
Fingerprint
Resistant
Large Families
90
OVERALL
SCORE
Capacity
9.5
Smart Features
8.8
Design
9.0
Cooling
8.7
Check Price on Amazon→

The Samsung 28 cu. ft. Smart Side-by-Side Refrigerator is designed to handle the demands of large households, offering ample storage space that fits 10% more groceries. You’ll appreciate the modern, flat-panel door design with recessed handles and the fingerprint-resistant finish that keeps it looking clean. Its Wi-Fi connectivity provides peace of mind with alerts for temperature changes or open doors, ensuring food safety and energy conservation.

This refrigerator excels in capacity and modern design, making it a practical choice for busy families. While the smart features are beneficial, they might be more basic than some competitors. If you need a spacious, stylish, and connected refrigerator that can keep up with a large family’s needs, this Samsung model is an excellent contender, especially considering its value proposition under $2500.

Pros

  • Massive 28 cu. ft. capacity
  • Smart alerts via WiFi
  • Sleek, fingerprint-resistant design

Cons

  • Smart features could be more advanced
  • Requires Wi-Fi connection for alerts
  • Internal ice maker takes up space

Specifications

Brand
Samsung
Capacity
28 cubic feet
Color
Stainless Steel
Configuration
Side-by-Side
Dimensions
33.5″D x 35.88″W x 70.06″H
Special Feature
WiFi Connectivity
Check Price on Amazon→

#3. Midea MRS25I7BST Refrigerator

Midea MRS25I7BST Refrigerator
AutoFill
Water Pitcher
Fingerprint
Resistant Steel
Counter-Depth
Design
Smart Features
88
OVERALL
SCORE
Capacity
8.5
Smart Features
9.0
Design
8.8
Ease of Use
8.7
Check Price on Amazon→

You’ll appreciate the convenience of the Midea MRS25I7BST, especially its AutoFill Water Pitcher and fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish. This counter-depth model offers a generous 24.5 cu. ft. capacity, making it a practical choice for storing a variety of groceries. The electronic control panel provides easy access to settings, and the interior LED lighting ensures good visibility.

While this refrigerator boasts smart features and a sleek design, it’s worth noting that it has a limited number of customer reviews. It’s an excellent option if you prioritize a clean aesthetic and convenient water-filling capabilities, but might not be the best fit if you need extensive smart home integration or a vast array of advanced tech features.

Pros

  • Convenient AutoFill Water Pitcher
  • Fingerprint-resistant stainless steel
  • Generous 24.5 cu. ft. capacity

Cons

  • Limited customer reviews
  • Basic smart features
  • Internal water dispenser only

Specifications

Brand
Midea
Capacity
24.5 cubic feet
Color
Stainless
Configuration
Side-by-Side
Dimensions
36″D x 29″W x 70″H
Special Feature
AutoFill Water Pitcher
Check Price on Amazon→

#4. Upstreman SBS188 Refrigerator

Upstreman SBS188 Refrigerator
Quiet
Operation
Inverter
Compressor
Frost
Free
Quiet Operation
85
OVERALL
SCORE
Capacity
7.5
Noise Level
9.5
Efficiency
8.8
Design
8.5
Check Price on Amazon→

You’ll be impressed by the remarkably quiet operation of the Upstreman SBS188 refrigerator, thanks to its advanced inverter compressor that keeps noise levels down to just 45dB. This frost-free model offers flexible interior organization with adjustable shelving and a digital control panel for easy temperature management. Its black stainless steel exterior provides a modern, sleek look that can elevate your kitchen’s aesthetic.

While the 18.8 cu. ft. capacity is adequate for smaller households, it might feel a bit limited for larger families. The energy consumption is quite efficient at 496 kWh per year. This refrigerator is a great choice if a quiet kitchen is a top priority, but consider a larger model if you need more storage space.

Pros

  • Extremely quiet operation (45dB)
  • Energy-efficient inverter compressor
  • Modern black stainless steel look

Cons

  • Smaller 18.8 cu. ft. capacity
  • Limited brand recognition
  • May not suit large families

Specifications

Brand
Upstreman
Capacity
18.8 cubic feet
Color
Black
Configuration
Side-by-Side
Dimensions
26.4″D x 35.8″W x 69.7″H
Special Feature
Inverter Compressor
Check Price on Amazon→

#5. Samsung 27.4 cu. ft. Refrigerator

Samsung 27.4 cu. ft. Refrigerator
All-Around
Cooling
Fingerprint
Resistant
Indoor
Icemaker
Everyday Use
82
OVERALL
SCORE
Capacity
8.8
Cooling
8.5
Design
8.0
Value
8.2
Check Price on Amazon→

The Samsung 27.4 cu. ft. Side-by-Side Refrigerator offers a substantial capacity, perfect for stocking up on groceries for your household. You’ll find the All-Around Cooling system effective at maintaining consistent temperatures throughout, and the fingerprint-resistant finish means less time spent wiping down the exterior. The indoor icemaker is a space-saving feature that doesn’t intrude on your fresh food storage.

This refrigerator provides a good balance of capacity and features for everyday use, fitting comfortably within the under $2500 budget. While it offers a modern design and reliable cooling, it lacks some of the more advanced smart connectivity found in other Samsung models. It’s a solid, dependable choice for those prioritizing space and a clean look without needing cutting-edge tech.

Pros

  • Generous 27.4 cu. ft. capacity
  • Consistent All-Around Cooling
  • Fingerprint-resistant finish

Cons

  • Average customer rating
  • Lacks advanced smart features
  • Basic interior lighting

Specifications

Brand
Samsung
Capacity
27.4 cubic feet
Color
Stainless Steel
Configuration
Side-by-Side
Dimensions
33.5″D x 35.88″W x 70.06″H
Special Feature
Indoor Icemaker
Check Price on Amazon→

#6. Frigidaire 33″ Side-by-Side

Frigidaire 33" Side-by-Side
Air
Filter
LED
Lighting
Ice Maker
Included
Reliable Cooling
78
OVERALL
SCORE
Capacity
7.8
Cooling
8.0
Design
7.5
Value
7.9
Check Price on Amazon→

The Frigidaire 33″ Side-by-Side refrigerator offers a solid 22.2 cu. ft. of capacity, suitable for most family needs. You’ll appreciate the inclusion of an air filter to help keep your food fresh and LED interior lighting for better visibility. The stainless steel finish provides a classic look that should complement many kitchen decors.

While this model offers essential features, its average customer rating suggests it might not be a standout performer in all areas. If you’re looking for a no-frills, dependable refrigerator with basic amenities, this could be a good choice, but it may lack the advanced smart features or premium build quality found in higher-end models.

Pros

  • Includes air filter for freshness
  • Standard 22.2 cu. ft. capacity
  • Classic stainless steel finish

Cons

  • Average customer rating
  • Lacks advanced smart features
  • Basic interior organization

Specifications

Brand
Frigidaire
Capacity
22.2 cubic feet
Color
Stainless Steel
Configuration
Side-by-Side
Dimensions
35″D x 33″W x 70″H
Special Feature
Air Filter
Check Price on Amazon→

#7. Forno Salerno 33-inch Refrigerator

Forno Salerno 33-inch Refrigerator
Counter-Depth
Design
Fast
Cool/Freeze
LED
Touch Control
Compact Spaces
75
OVERALL
SCORE
Capacity
7.0
Design
8.5
Ease of Use
8.0
Value
7.5
Check Price on Amazon→

The Forno Salerno 33-inch refrigerator offers a compact 15.6 cu. ft. capacity, making it a suitable choice for smaller kitchens or apartments. You’ll appreciate its counter-depth, built-in design for a seamless look, and the user-friendly LED touch controls for easy temperature adjustments. The Fast Freeze and Fast Cool functions are convenient for quickly chilling new groceries or preparing items for freezing.

While this refrigerator provides a sleek appearance and useful quick-cooling features, its smaller capacity might not be sufficient for larger households. The white finish is classic but may show smudges more readily than stainless steel, despite the description mentioning fingerprint resistance. It’s a good option if space is a constraint and you prioritize a clean aesthetic and quick temperature adjustments.

Pros

  • Compact counter-depth design
  • Fast Freeze and Fast Cool
  • Easy LED touch controls

Cons

  • Limited 15.6 cu. ft. capacity
  • White finish may show smudges
  • Fewer advanced features

Specifications

Brand
Forno
Capacity
15.6 cu. ft.
Color
White
Configuration
Side-by-Side
Dimensions
27.48″D x 32.7″W x 70.1″H
Special Feature
Fast Freeze/Cool
Check Price on Amazon→
Top 7 Best Smart Side-By-Side Refrigerator Under $2500

Fridge Intelligence: Navigating the World of Smart Side-by-Side Refrigerators

Bringing a smart side-by-side refrigerator into your home is more than just an appliance upgrade; it’s an investment in convenience and efficiency. These refrigerators offer advanced features that can streamline your kitchen routine, from managing groceries to optimizing energy usage. For those looking to enhance their kitchen without breaking the bank, there are excellent options available, typically falling within a reasonable budget, that deliver on both smart technology and essential cooling performance.

Decoding the Digital Kitchen: What to Consider

When you’re ready to explore the smart side-by-side market, several key aspects will help you pinpoint the model that best suits your needs. Think about how these features will integrate into your daily life and kitchen workflow.

  • Connectivity and Control: Consider the level of smart integration you desire. This can range from basic Wi-Fi connectivity for notifications to advanced app control for temperature adjustments, diagnostics, and even inventory management.
  • Capacity and Configuration: Beyond the smarts, the fundamental refrigerator space and layout are crucial. Evaluate the total cubic footage and how the side-by-side doors and interior shelves and drawers are designed to accommodate your typical grocery loads and storage habits.
  • Ice and Water Dispensing: Most side-by-side models feature external dispensers. Think about the type of ice you prefer (cubed, crushed) and whether you want filtered water readily available. Some advanced models offer customizable dispenser options.
  • Energy Efficiency: Look for models that are ENERGY STAR certified. This indicates that the refrigerator meets strict energy performance standards, which can lead to savings on your electricity bills over time.
  • Sticking to your budget: Smart features can add to the cost. Prioritize the smart functionalities that offer genuine value to you, and compare models within your price range to find the best balance of advanced tech and core refrigeration performance.

Common Missteps to Sidestep

Even with the best intentions, it’s easy to overlook crucial details when shopping for a new appliance. Here are a few common pitfalls to avoid:

  • Overlooking the actual dimensions and clearance needed for installation. Ensure the refrigerator will fit through doorways and in its intended space, with room for doors to open fully.
  • Getting so caught up in the smart features that you neglect the basic refrigeration performance and build quality. A beautiful interface is secondary to keeping your food fresh.
  • Not considering the user-friendliness of the smart interface. If the app is clunky or the onboard display is confusing, you might not use the smart features as intended.

Your Smart Fridge Decision, Simplified

When it comes to snagging a smart side-by-side, the LG InstaView with Craft Ice is your go-to for premium features and unique beverage options. For a spacious, feature-rich Samsung experience, the RS28A500ASR/AA shines. If a built-in pitcher is key, the Midea MRS25I7BST is a smart move, while the Upstreman SBS188 offers a solid counter-depth black option. The larger Samsung RS27T5200SR/AA delivers ample storage, the Frigidaire provides reliable performance, and the Forno Salerno offers a sleek white choice. Rest assured, all these excellent choices can be found well within your under $2500 budget. Now, to seal the deal, click through to check current pricing and availability for your perfect match!

Final 3 Picks: Advanced Cooling, Large Families, and Smart Features

Ready to decide? These 3 recommendations remain our strongest choices for different priorities after weighing the full comparison.