If you're dreaming of a kitchen that looks polished, streamlined, and straight out of a magazine, built-in fridges are your move. These sleek, high-end refrigerators blend right into cabinetry, give your kitchen a more custom feel, and come loaded with serious performance. But let’s be honest—these aren’t your basic plug-and-play appliances. They’re an investment. And this guide is here to walk you through whether that investment is worth it, how to shop the right style, and where to find the best brands. Whether you're remodeling or building from scratch, this guide will help you shop built in refrigerator options with confidence—and make sure you’re getting the most for your money.
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Shop Built-In RefrigeratorsAre Built-In Refrigerators Worth It?
If you value long-term performance, premium design, and a kitchen that’s made to impress, then built-in fridges are worth it. These premium food preservation stations aren’t just about looks (though that’s a major selling point). They’re built to last, usually with a longer refrigerator lifespan than freestanding models, and they come with advanced cooling systems, custom storage options, and often panel-ready finishes that let you match them exactly to your cabinets.
Built-In vs Freestanding Refrigerators
That begs the question, “What is the biggest difference?”
For one, freestanding refrigerators are more flexible. They can be virtually anywhere they fit in a cutout. However, they also stick out past counters and don’t always look cohesive in high-end kitchens. Built-in fridges, on the other hand, sit flush with cabinetry. They're designed to be part of their surroundings, not just an appliance. And they’re secured into place, which keeps your layout clean and makes it easier to access surrounding drawers and surfaces.
Built-In vs Counter Depth Refrigerators
Counter-depth fridges are kind of the halfway point between a freestanding model and a built-in fridge. They don’t stick out as far as full-depth models with depths between 24” and 30”, but they also don’t fully integrate into your cabinets. On the other end of the spectrum, built-in fridges give you that clean, professionally designed look at just around 24” deep while offering even more custom options, including widths up to 48 inches and built-in water and air filtration systems.
Learn More: The Built-In Look: Cabinet Depth French Door Refrigerator Guide
How Much is a Built In Fridge?
Short answer: They’re an investment. Most built-in refrigerators start around $6,000 and can easily reach into five figures depending on the size, brand, and features. On top of that, you’ll need to factor in the built in refrigerator installation cost. The cost to install built in refrigerator units typically ranges from the low hundreds up to the thousands range, depending on your space and whether cabinet modifications are needed. So no, they’re not cheap, but they’re also in a different league entirely when compared to cheaper, less custom options.
Learn More: Refrigerator Face-Off: Is A Top Freezer or Side-by-Side Best for You?
Comparing Built In Fridge Styles
Built-in fridges come in a few main styles, and choosing the right one depends on how you shop, what your space looks like, and the kind of experience you want from your fridge (CLICK THE ➕TO LEARN MORE).
➕Built-In Bottom Freezer Fridge
This setup puts the fresh food section at eye level and frozen items below. It's a fan favorite for smaller households or people who use their freezer less often. A bottom freezer built in refrigerator still delivers the flush, upscale look you want without dominating your kitchen’s design.
➕Built-In French Door Fridge
A French door built-in refrigerator screams modern style. With two doors on top and a bottom freezer drawer, it offers a wide space for fresh food and keeps everything within easy reach. Plus, the double doors require less clearance when open, making them ideal for tighter kitchen layouts.
➕Built-In Side-by-Side Fridge
With a side-by-side built-in refrigerator, you get two full-length compartments—one fridge and one freezer. It’s perfect for homeowners who buy in bulk or need lots of freezer storage. The layout keeps everything at eye level without digging through stacked drawers.
Choosing a Built In Refrigerator Finish
Chances are if you’re considering a built-in fridge, presentation matters. Here’s how the two most popular finishes compare.
Built-In Stainless Steel Fridge
Stainless steel is timeless for a reason—it’s durable, neutral, and fits almost any kitchen aesthetic. Stainless steel built in refrigerators often include fingerprint-resistant finishes and are easy to clean.
Built-In Panel Ready Fridge
If you want your fridge to disappear into your kitchen design, this is the way to go. Built-in panel-ready fridges are made to be customized with cabinet panels, so the appliance matches your kitchen perfectly. It’s a must-have in custom and luxury builds.
Selecting a Built In Refrigerator Size
Aesthetics aside, one of the most important factors to decide is which size built in refrigerator to choose. Remember: Because integrated refrigerators sit parallel to cabinets, they don’t offer the same capacity as standard fridges (at least, not on the same 36” footprint). Here’s a quick breakdown.
- 30” Built-In Refrigerator: Great for compact luxury kitchens.
- 36” Built-In Refrigerator: As the most common size, this option balances capacity without needing too much cabinet space for accommodation.
- 42” Built-In Refrigerator: Upgrade to a built in fridge of this width for more storage and presence without overwhelming your space.
- 48” Built-In Refrigerator: A.k.a., the showstopper. Choose this width for ample storage in a configuration that’s nearly twice the size of a single refrigerator.
Learn More: 8 Best Refrigerator Brands
Product Showcase | Top Built In Fridge Models
Below are some standout built-in fridges you can find at Fred’s Appliance—each one bringing unique features and serious style to the table. Built in refrigerator brands
Sub-Zero Classic Series 48" Stainless Steel French Door Refrigerator
Shop This Sub-Zero Refrigerator
This Sub Zero built in refrigerator is a showpiece. With over 28 cu. ft. of capacity and French doors that feel like luxury, this unit delivers in every way. It features dual refrigeration systems to keep food fresher longer, air purification tech to reduce spoilage, and Wi-Fi connectivity for remote control. It also has Activate Max Ice Mode to temporarily increase ice production if you are entertaining guests. The stainless steel finish adds a professional touch and resists smudges. If you want the best of the best, this is it.
Monogram® 48 in. 29.5 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Smart Built In Counter Depth Side-by-Side Refrigerator
Shop This Monogram Refrigerator
If you are looking for a fridge with massive capacity and elegant design touches like custom LED lighting and advanced temperature management, the GE Monogram built-in fridge is a great option for you. The side-by-side configuration with nearly 30 cubic feet of capacity means less bending and more organization, especially for large families or serious entertainers. The ZISS480NNSS also includes smart features for precise temperature and humidity control, ensuring everything from produce to frozen pizzas stays in perfect shape.
Café™ 36 in. 20.1 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Built In French Door Refrigerator
Cafe combines modern style with customizable hardware and a refined finish in this Cafe built in refrigerator. French doors provide quick access to fresh items, while the bottom freezer offers organized, deep-drawer storage. Inside, you’ll find adjustable humidity zones, a full-width deli drawer with precise temperature control, and built-in Wi-Fi. It’s a perfect choice for anyone wanting style-forward appliances that still perform like pros.
⭐Featured Cafe CIP36NP2VS1 Review:
“This unit is great. Feels like the most luxurious refrigerator with a great price point. Seemless look with cabinets. Would be a great addition to any high end kitchen.”
KitchenAid® 42 in. 25.1 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Built In Counter Depth Side-by-Side Refrigerator
Shop This KitchenAid Refrigerator
The KitchenAid built in refrigerator lineup is known attainable luxury, and this model lives up to that standard. With over 25 cubic feet of refrigerator storage, LED lighting, and the Preserva® Food Care System, this fridge keeps everything tasting fresher, longer. The side-by-side configuration is great for accessibility, while the sleek stainless exterior blends seamlessly into modern kitchens. One of the standouts is the innovative under-shelf prep zone that optimizes unused space with enough room to house a 9"x13" baking sheet or cake pan.
⭐Featured KitchenAid KBSD702MSS Review:
“Exceeded my expectations. The ice maker on the older (16 years old) model was never great. It works beautifully on the new model. Also, the temperature stability is excellent. The organization of the interior is nice.”
Thermador® Freedom® Masterpiece® 36 in. 18.7 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Built In Counter Depth Bottom Freezer Refrigerator
Shop This Thermador Refrigerator
Thermador’s entry into the bottom freezer built in refrigerator category brings pro-level performance and commercial-grade engineering to your kitchen. At 36” wide, it fits standard cabinet cutouts while delivering plenty of storage. Inside, ThermaFresh drawers preserve moisture and airflow, and the Freedom® Hinge allows for true flush installation. It also comes with a flex drawer with multiple settings, including freezer, soft freeze, refrigerator, beverages, meat/fish, deli/cheese, and cake, so you can use the drawer in whatever way you need in the moment.
Fisher & Paykel Series 7 32 in. 14.7 Cu. Ft. Panel Ready Integrated French Door Refrigerator
Shop This Fisher & Paykel Refrigerator
For fans of panel ready built in refrigerators, the minimalist look from Fisher & Paykel hits the nail on the head. This model is slightly smaller at 32” wide, making it ideal for compact luxury kitchens. You get French doors, an integrated ice maker, variable temperature zones, and ActiveSmart™ Foodcare tech that learns your usage patterns and adjusts cooling. It has a SmartTouch control panel that is super easy to use for all ages.
GE Profile™ 42 in. 24.5 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Built In Counter Depth Side-by-Side Refrigerator
Shop This GE Profile Refrigerator
Need a side-by-side built-in refrigerator that’s big, bold, and reliable? This GE Profile model delivers over 24 cu. ft. of capacity, easy-glide drawers, and ramp-up LED lighting that makes everything easier to see. With a clean stainless steel look, adjustable interior storage, and smart features like advanced water filtration and climate control, it’s an easy fit for busy families who want performance and polish.
⭐Featured GE Profile PSB42YSNSS Review:
“We have been very happy with our new refrigerator. It is very well lit inside and makes it easy to see all throughout the refrigerator.”
You simply can’t beat a built-in fridge if you want a fully integrated kitchen. The market is full of luxury refrigerator brands and models, so if you’re wondering where to buy built in refrigerator models, Fred’s Appliance is the place to go to explore them all! Check out our top picks, along with our full collection of integrated refrigerators that elevate your kitchen’s look and performance.
Why Trust Fred’s Appliance?
Fred's Appliance is the go-to store for all your appliance needs in the inland Northwest area. Established in 1962, Fred's Appliance has been serving customers for over five decades and counting. With an experienced and knowledgeable staff, Fred's provides a welcoming atmosphere that helps customers find the best product to fit their needs, budget, and lifestyle.
When you shop with Fred's Appliance, you can be sure that you're getting the best brands at the best prices. In our store, you will find a variety of refrigerators, ranges, wall ovens, cooktops, dishwashers, and more. We also carry washers and dryers in both front-load and top-load styles. Not only are we dedicated to providing an unbeatable selection of appliances, but we are equally committed to the local community. We proudly support many charitable organizations throughout Washington, Idaho, and Montana. When you shop at Fred's Appliance, you're not only getting a great product but helping out your neighbors too!
Shop Built-In Refrigerators at Fred’s Appliance
If you're looking for a great appliance shopping experience, shop refrigerators online or visit one of our showrooms in Washington, Idaho, or Montana to see what a difference buying locally with an experienced retailer makes. Our appliance experts will be happy to help you explore the latest built in fridges. Contact us today and discover the perfect appliance for your home.
Learn More: SubZero vs GE Monogram: Luxury Refrigerators Compared