Our top pick, the GE GLE12HSPSS 11.9 cu. ft. Built-In Bottom Freezer Refrigerator, has plenty of room for your groceries and customizable shelving, and is Energy Star certified. Here are the best narrow refrigerators on the market. Most people think bottom-freezers are only available in larger refrigerators, but GE’s GLE12HSPSS refrigerator proves space-saving doesn’t have to compromise function. This narrow refrigerator is our top pick because of its temperature-controlled drawer and internal digital controls, on top of its stylish design. Although this model is a bit more expensive, it offers the look of a built-in, counter-depth refrigerator without requiring the expense of customized cabinetry. An internal hinge and reversible door make this 23.5-inch-wide refrigerator suitable for any small kitchen design. Inside the main compartment, three door shelves, plus three main shelves and two drawers, allow for maximum storage. All of the shelves can be adjusted to preferred heights so any size container is stored with ease. The internal shelf system also includes a “QuickSpace Shelf” that slides in for any extra-tall items that need to be stored. The additional drawer is a great place to store smaller foods, like juice boxes or deli meats, and has three temperature settings you can choose from. Notably, a removable wine bottle rack is also included so you can easily store up to five bottles of wine in your main refrigerator. If you’re not a wine drinker, this section of the fridge can be folded up whenever it’s not in use, maximizing the interior space. While this refrigerator does not include an ice maker, there is the option of adding an ice maker to the purchase. This model is Energy Star certified, so it delivers the same chilling power as standard models while using less energy. On top of all these features, this narrow refrigerator is also ADA compliant, with easy-to-reach controls, and meets accessibility standards for people with disabilities and age and injury-related mobility issues. Price at time of publish: $1,949 Even though this model is narrow, it can easily store an impressive amount of food. It boasts sophisticated features such as a big, humidity-controlled crisper drawer, maintaining the optimal humidity level for fruits and vegetables. An airflow system carries the humidity level throughout the rest of the model and keeps the rest of your food fresh. LED lighting helps you see everything on the tempered glass shelving and can reduce your energy usage after many years of use. Contoured platinum doors and curved handles give this refrigerator a sleek look when it comes to the exterior. This appliance is a bit louder than other models on the market, but its spacious and organized interior makes it a worthy and affordable investment for your home. Price at time of publish: $699 The lower price point of this piece means that some frills like an ice maker or dispenser aren’t included in your purchase. However, it has an automatic defroster and reversible door—both of which are very convenient features. You don’t have to worry about whether your items will be accessible or maintain their ideal temperature. It cools right away, so you can plug it in and return soon afterward to put your groceries away. This model is just one step down from a full-size appliance; it’s conveniently compact. It comes in white, platinum steel, and a black finish, which will look stylish in any home. Price at time of publish: $449 It has a standard combo of crispers, door bins, and shelves when it comes to organizing your goods. There is no butter keeper or deli drawer, but reversible hinges give this piece more flexibility and allow you to customize it to your space, lifestyle, and needs. Plus, you can purchase this unit in a white, black, or brushed steel finish and slide it into a corner of your home, thanks to its compact dimensions. Price at time of publish: $829 This Danby fridge is an eco-friendly option; it’s Energy Star-certified for its ultra-efficient power usage and use of R600a refrigerant. The reversible door can be mounted on either side and ensures that this piece can quickly become part of your home. The built-in light allows for stellar visibility, and the adjustable thermostat lets you choose your preferred temperature. Given that this piece is relatively roomy and well-designed, it’s ideal for a garage fridge. Price at time of publish: $930 This piece may not be for a connoisseur since it has only one cooling zone that can sometimes fluctuate a degree or two. However, it will be an amenity in any home with little room and a big love for wine. This cooler is a mere 12 inches tall, so you can install it under a counter where a trash compacter used to be or in a freestanding spot in your home. Once you turn it on, you can set the temperature anywhere between 40 and 66 degrees using the one-touch thermostat inside. This Kalamera model won’t break the bank or your ears. It’s quiet and affordable. Be sure to scrub it well on the inside before use, according to the instruction manual. Price at time of publish: $489 This fridge is 28 inches wide, and the interior features adjustable shelves and door bins. The freezer has a half-width wire shelf to help you keep items organized. A full-width crisper drawer can store a variety of fruits or vegetables in their optimal environment. Adjust the temperature with the up-front electronic controls, and incandescent lights illuminate the interior, too. Notably, you can reverse the door hinges on this appliance, ideal for a small living space. Overall, you’ll likely be pleased with the performance of this budget-friendly fridge and the bonus that you can install your very own ice maker should you choose. Price at time of publish: $999
Organization Options
The amount of shelving, drawers, and door bins in your narrow refrigerator impacts how much you can store. So, consider what your organization options are and if they can be adjusted if your needs change. The average narrow fridge will feature two or three shelves and a produce drawer in the fresh food portion. There are high-end models on the market that also give you specialty storage for wine bottles and cans, eliminating the need for an additional appliance.
Reversible Door
A reversible door gives you the flexibility to install your narrow refrigerator wherever you see fit. Unlike a model that opens to the left or right, a model with this feature has airtight seals on both outer edges of its door to give it extra flexibility and functionality. If you’re looking to install your new appliance in a garage or a tight spot in your kitchen where other appliances are close by, this feature will prove to be handy, as it also features recessed handles. Just note: the seals may become worn over time.
Standout Features
Bottle and Can Storage
Bottle and can storage in your narrow refrigerator gives you a convenient spot for your drinks. It not only eliminates the need for an extra appliance but also ensures that your seltzer, soda, or wine isn’t shaken and moved around much. Especially in narrow refrigerators, where space is quite limited, you can expect this feature to keep things neat and accessible. It’s particularly suitable for wine lovers or entertainers.
Garage-Ready Design
If a narrow refrigerator has a garage-ready design, it can withstand the uneven temperatures of a semi-outdoor space. Whether the garage becomes hot or cold, the appliance will operate properly and maintain the internal temperature you set. Any household that wants to use their new fridge as extra storage will find this feature to be convenient and a must-have, as it lets you install a narrow fridge just about anywhere.
Why Trust The Spruce?
This article was edited and updated by Marisa Casciano, the large appliance expert for The Spruce. Throughout her career, she’s researched the ins and outs of air purifiers, dishwashers, cooktops, and more in the home and lifestyle space. She’s lived in multiple apartments and understands the need to conserve space with a narrow refrigerator, as well as the desire to experience modern amenities.
