Refrigeration technology has reached impressive heights, with some of the most expensive models boasting features so advanced they seem capable of doing your taxes.
While many customers appreciate the added value of high-tech features, not everyone needs or wants to invest in a costly refrigerator. The good news is that you don't have to break the bank to find a quality appliance that keeps your food fresh.
If you're looking for a reliable refrigerator with excellent performance and useful features without exceeding $1,500, side-by-side models are a great option. These refrigerators provide all the essential functions you expect, along with some valuable extras.
In this blog, we'll introduce you to the top side-by-side refrigerators under $1,500 and explain why they might be the perfect addition to your kitchen.
Find Excellent Side-by-Side Fridge Models
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Shop the Best Side-by-Side FridgesWhat Features Come With a Refrigerator Under $1,500?
Customers often worry that paying less than $1,500 for a refrigerator means sacrificing quality. However, you can still enjoy many of the same benefits as those who spend more. While budget-friendly models might lack some of the bells and whistles of pricier options, they are just as effective at keeping your food cold and fresh.
Here's a breakdown of what to expect:
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Basic Models: Appliance companies release standard refrigerators focusing on essential functions like food storage and preservation. These models work efficiently without the added cost of extra features.
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Mid-Range Models: These might include enhancements such as WiFi connectivity and French doors. They balance advanced features and affordability, maintaining the same reliability as basic models.
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Luxury Models: These include high-end features like digital screens, self-opening doors, and other non-essential but desirable extras. They are designed for those who want the latest technology and added convenience.
When choosing a refrigerator under $1,500, rest assured that reputable brands offer models that will keep your food cold and fresh. You can also find budget-friendly options with advanced features like water dispensers and WiFi to enhance your refrigeration experience.
Pros and Cons of Side-by-Side Refrigerators
Choosing a side-by-side refrigerator means balancing vertical storage convenience with some potential limits on oversized items. Here is a breakdown of the key pros and cons to help you decide if this style is right for your kitchen:
Pros
Excellent Organization
The tall, thin compartments make it easy to see and access items at eye level in both the refrigerator and the freezer, reducing bending and digging.
Space-Saving Door Swing
The two narrow doors require less clearance space than a single wide door (like on a French door or single-door model), making them perfect for galley kitchens or tight layouts with islands.
Convenient Water and Ice
Virtually all side-by-side models feature a through-the-door ice and water dispenser, which is both highly convenient and standard for this style.
High Capacity-to-Cost Ratio
Side-by-side models often offer a high cubic-foot capacity at a more competitive price point compared to similarly sized French door refrigerators.
Easy Freezer Access
Unlike bottom-freezer models where items are piled into drawers, the vertical freezer shelves allow you to see and reach small frozen items easily without having to dig.
Cons
Narrow Freezer Width
The vertical freezer compartment is often too narrow to easily fit wide items like pizza boxes, large platters, or oversized frozen dinners.
Reduced Fresh Food Space
The division of space means the fresh food compartment is generally narrower than in French door or bottom-freezer models, limiting large platter storage.
Temperature Fluctuation
Since the ice maker and dispenser are often in the freezer door, those door bins can sometimes experience slightly warmer temperatures than the main freezer cavity.
Aesthetic Preference
The aesthetic is less popular than the French door style in many high-end kitchen designs, though modern finishes are improving their look.
Top Side-by-Side Refrigerators Under $1,500
Our team at Spencer’s TV & Appliance strives to offer the best prices to customers. On our sales floor, several refrigeration models are available for less than $1,500. You can also apply coupons and additional rebates to save. Here are a few top picks by customers who want quality refrigeration on a budget.
1. Frigidaire 25.6 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Side-by-Side Refrigerator
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Renowned in the appliance industry, Frigidaire is often credited with inspiring the nickname "fridge," which some believe is derived from the brand name itself, not just a shortened refrigerator form.
This model is available for only $1,500, which is a high-value option for what it comes with. The reviews of this appliance are mostly positive and highlight how much room the piece can hold. It can store a significant amount of ice and has enough organization to find whatever you need.
Every Frigidaire refrigerator comes with an EvenTemp™ Cooling System that protects food freshness while avoiding freezer burn. Cold air circulates throughout this side-by-side refrigerator, while crisper drawers for produce block out dryness so your groceries don’t wilt.
These side-by-side refrigerators come with ice and water dispensers. The filters reduce up to 99% of contaminants, so you can enjoy safe, great-tasting water wherever you are. With 25.6 cubic feet of storage capacity, you can fit enough groceries for a family, but the clear LED lighting means your kids will never struggle to find their favorite snacks ever again.
LG 36 in. 26.6 Cu. Ft. Side by Side Refrigerator
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You don't have to break the bank to own an appliance from a leading, high-tech brand. This LG side by side refrigerator delivers a huge 26.6 cubic feet of capacity and smart features while offering excellent value for a full-sized 36-inch model.
Say goodbye to constant wiping, as the PrintProof™ Finish resists smudges and fingerprints, keeping your kitchen looking clean and sleek without constant maintenance.
Furthermore, LG’s clever SpacePlus® Ice System moves the ice maker into the freezer door, freeing up crucial internal shelf space so you can utilize every inch for storage.
With Wi-Fi capability and compatibility with the LG ThinQ® app, you can easily monitor and control your refrigerator remotely, giving you a blend of impressive storage, sophisticated style, and modern convenience.
3. Samsung 27.4 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Standard Depth Side-by-Side Refrigerator
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With Samsung's new 27.4 cu. ft. Side-by-Side refrigerator, you'll have plenty of room to store all your favorite foods.
This beautifully designed fridge has a minimal display dispenser and a sleek, modern design that will complement any kitchen decor. The stainless steel finish is also easy to keep clean, resisting smudges and fingerprints.
In addition to its stylish, good looks, this fridge offers 10% more storage space than similar models, giving you the extra room you need to store more groceries. Whether you're feeding a large family or just want the flexibility to keep a wider variety of food on hand, this Side-by-Side refrigerator is the perfect solution.
4. Amana 21.4 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Side-By-Side Refrigerator
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Amana offers some of the highest-value side-by-side refrigerators that you can add to your home. This refrigerator is smaller than some other models on this list and features an ice maker and water filtration system. It also includes many advanced refrigeration technologies that customers expect from their appliances.
Refrigeration size isn’t everything. Storage needs depend on the number of people the appliance serves. A single individual typically needs less storage space than a family with multiple children. Similarly, a couple with an infant requires a smaller refrigerator than a household with four adults.
This model's electronic temperature controls are easy to adjust, allowing you to keep your refrigerator cooler if necessary. The adjustable shelves can be set at your preferred levels for maximum convenience. The Amana side-by-side refrigerator is one of the most affordable options available, priced at under $1,500.
5. Maytag 24.9 Cu. Ft. Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel Side-by-Side Refrigerator
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Offering a blend of generous storage space and innovative features, the Maytag Side-by-Side Refrigerator provides exceptional value and is an outstanding choice for any household.
This refrigerator is Priced under $1,500, provides ample storage space, and is highly reviewed for its capacity and organizational options. Customers appreciate its ability to store a significant amount of ice and the ease with which they can locate their groceries.
Each Maytag refrigerator features an EvenTemp™ Cooling System that maintains the freshness of your food while preventing freezer burn. Cold air circulates efficiently throughout the refrigerator, and the crisper drawers block out dryness to keep your produce fresh and crisp.
With 24.9 cubic feet of storage capacity, this refrigerator is perfect for a family. The clear LED lighting makes it easy to find everything, including your kids' favorite snacks.
6. Whirlpool 36 in. 24.6 Cu. Ft. Side-By-Side Refrigerator
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If you prioritize reliability and smart organization for your busy household, look no further than this spacious Whirlpool Side-By-Side.
This 36-inch model offers a generous 24.6 cubic feet of capacity and features a sleek Monochromatic Stainless Steel finish that brings a clean, contemporary look to your kitchen.
Whirlpool is renowned for having the lowest repair rate among side-by-side refrigerators, offering dependable performance and peace of mind.
Key features like Adjustable Gallon Door Bins and frameless glass shelves ensure every inch of storage is maximized, while the Exterior Ice and Water Dispenser with EveryDrop™ filtration provides fresh, filtered refreshment without ever opening the door.
Frequently Asked Questions
A side-by-side refrigerator is defined by having two vertical compartments—the refrigerator and the freezer—split down the middle. Unlike traditional or French door models, this design allows for easier access to both fresh food and freezer items at eye level, eliminating the need to bend down for the freezer section.
Yes, it is entirely possible to find excellent side-by-side refrigerator models for under $1,500. Many reputable brands offer full-featured appliances in this price range. To maximize savings, look for sales events and compare base models that still offer core features like ice and water dispensers.
The best times to buy appliances at steep discounts are during major holiday sales weekends, including Memorial Day, Labor Day, 4th of July, and Black Friday. Additionally, appliance retailers often offer significant markdowns on outgoing models in September and October as new models are introduced.
The primary advantages of a side-by-side design are equal eye-level access to both the refrigerator and freezer, and the narrow door swing. The narrow doors require less clearance space in front of the unit, which is ideal for tight kitchens or galleys.
Side-by-side refrigerators typically offer a total capacity ranging from 22 cubic feet to over 28 cubic feet. This range makes them suitable for medium to large families, with the space generally split about 60/40 (refrigerator/freezer).
While side-by-side models have a large footprint, they are often better for tight clearances because each door is half the width of a French door or single-door refrigerator. The narrow door swing allows for installation in kitchens with islands or limited space in front of the unit.
Many modern side-by-side refrigerators are designed to be energy efficient. When shopping, look specifically for the ENERGY STAR® certification to ensure the model exceeds federal minimum standards for energy consumption, which can help lower your long-term utility bills.
Look for features that enhance convenience and food preservation, such as external ice and water dispensers, multi-flow cooling systems for even temperatures, LED interior lighting, and organizational tools like adjustable door bins and crispers.
Yes, many brands offer counter-depth side-by-side models. These are shallower than standard-depth models, allowing the unit to sit nearly flush with your cabinets for a streamlined, built-in appearance, which is highly desired in custom and open-concept kitchens.
Why Trust Spencer’s TV & Appliance?
Since 1973, Spencer’s TV & Appliance has grown to 10 locations throughout the Phoenix Metropolitan Area. The secret to our longevity is simple: personal service. Customer satisfaction has always been the focus of our business, and throughout the years, we have been able to work hard with our suppliers to bring you the best prices. After all, getting customers the best price and personal attention is how we compete with big-box stores, day in and day out.
Not only do we offer top-rated appliances, name-brand electronics, and the best mattresses on the market but we also provide water treatment solutions and perform kitchen design services. Stop by your nearest Spencer’s and see what you’re missing!
Shop Side by Side Refrigerators at Spencer’s
At Spencer’s TV & Appliance, we provide high-quality, name-brand products at great prices — check out our catalog to shop side-by-side refrigerators online today. Your friends in the business are always happy to help you choose from our selection of side-by-side refrigerators for under $1,500. Call us, or better yet, stop by at one of our locations in the Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Glendale regions. Visit us today!
➝ Learn More: The Best Large Side by Side Refrigerators to Complete Your Kitchen