French Door Refrigerators vs Side-by-side: Which One to Choose

Compare French door and side-by-side refrigerators in terms of design, capacity, convenience, and features to find the perfect fit for your kitchen.
Explore Refrigerators
3 min
17-July-2024
In today's kitchen appliance market, choosing between a French door refrigerator and a side-by-side model involves considering various factors such as storage preferences, kitchen layout, and energy efficiency. Both types offer unique features that cater to different household needs. Explore our detailed comparison to determine which refrigerator style best suits your lifestyle and kitchen space.

For those interested in exploring these refrigerator options further, Bajaj Mall provides a convenient platform to browse through a wide range of models. Experience hassle-free shopping with options like zero down payment and flexible repayment plans using the Bajaj Finserv EMI Network Card. Visit our partner stores across multiple cities to find the perfect refrigerator for your home without upfront costs.

French door refrigerator vs side-by-side: which to choose?

Choosing between a French door refrigerator and a side-by-side model depends on your kitchen layout and preferences. Here is a comparison to help you decide:

FeatureFrench door refrigeratorSide-by-side refrigerator
Freezer accessBottom drawer for easy access.Side-by-side doors for convenient access.
Fresh food storageWide shelves and pull-out drawers.Equal access to fresh and frozen items.
Energy efficiencyGenerally, more energy-efficient.Efficient but may consume more energy.
Storage capacitySpacious interior, ideal for large items. Even distribution of space, good for organising.
Aesthetic appealStylish design with double doors.Modern look with side-by-side layout.


When comparing, consider your household size and usage patterns. A side-by-side refrigerator offers excellent energy efficiency and ample storage, while a French door refrigerator provides versatility and ease of access to fresh foods. Choose based on your specific needs for space, functionality, and energy efficiency.

You can also explore more about 5 star side-by-side refrigerator here.

Comparing French door and side-by-side refrigerators: features and benefits

FeatureFrench door refrigeratorSide-by-side refrigerator
Freezer accessBottom drawer for convenient storage.Side-by-side doors for easy access to frozen items.
Fresh food storageWide shelves and pull-out drawers for better organisation.Equal access to both fresh and frozen items.
Energy efficiencyTypically more energy-efficient.Efficient cooling with moderate energy consumption.
Storage capacitySpacious layout, suitable for large items.Equally distributed space, ideal for organised storage.
Aesthetic appealElegant double door design.Modern side-by-side layout, fits contemporary kitchens.


When deciding between a french door refrigerator with its spacious design and a fridge under Rs. 12,000 or a side-by-side refrigerator offering convenient access and energy efficiency, consider your kitchen space and storage needs. Each type has unique features that cater to different preferences, making it essential to choose based on your household's lifestyle and requirements.

French door vs side-by-side refrigerators: pros and cons

When comparing a French door refrigerator with a side-by-side door refrigerator, consider the following pros and cons:

French door refrigerator:

Pros:

Spacious interior with wide shelves and pull-out drawers.

Bottom-drawer freezer for easy access to frozen items.

Stylish design with double doors enhancing kitchen aesthetics.

Generally, more energy-efficient compared to side-by-side models.

Cons:

Higher initial cost, especially for models with advanced features.

Limited width for storing larger items due to vertical design.

Side-by-side door refrigerator:

Pros:

Equal access to fresh and frozen items with side-by-side doors.

Efficient use of space with a vertical layout, suitable for narrow kitchens.

Often comes with advanced features like ice and water dispensers.

Cons:

Less width for storing wider items like pizza boxes or platters.

May consume more energy compared to French door models.

Choosing between these refrigerators depends on your kitchen layout, storage needs, and preference for features like energy efficiency and convenience.

French door vs side-by-side refrigerators: a detailed comparison

French door and side-by-side refrigerators offer distinct features catering to different household needs and kitchen layouts.

French door refrigerators typically feature a spacious interior with wide shelves and pull-out drawers, providing ample storage for fresh foods. The freezer is conveniently located at the bottom, allowing easy access to frozen items. This design not only enhances organisation but also adds a stylish touch to modern kitchens with its double-door configuration. Energy efficiency is often a highlight, making it a preferred choice for environmentally conscious consumers.

On the other hand, side-by-side refrigerators divide the storage vertically, offering equal access to fresh and frozen items through side-by-side doors. This layout is beneficial for narrow kitchens, maximising space efficiency. Many models come equipped with advanced features such as water and ice dispensers, adding convenience to daily use. However, the narrower compartments may limit storage for wider items like large pizza boxes or platters.

When deciding between these options, consider your kitchen space, storage requirements, and preference for features. The latest refrigerators in these categories blend functionality with modern design, ensuring that your choice aligns perfectly with your lifestyle and kitchen aesthetics.

Financing options with Bajaj Finserv

Discover the ultimate destination for exploring comprehensive details, features, and specifications of French door and side-by-side refrigerators on Bajaj Mall. Once you have gathered all the information that you need, visit your nearest Bajaj Finserv partner store to select the perfect refrigerator for your home. With the Bajaj Finserv EMI Network Card, enjoy a pre-approved card limit that allows you to make your purchase hassle-free. Choose a repayment plan that suits your budget and repay in convenient interest-free EMIs. Experience seamless shopping for your ideal refrigerator, backed by flexible payment options and expert guidance at every step.

Benefits of shopping with the Bajaj Finserv EMI Network Card

No Cost EMIs: With the Bajaj Finserv EMI Network Card, buying your preferred French door refrigerator or side-by-side model becomes hassle-free. Enjoy the flexibility to choose a repayment tenure and pay in interest-free EMIs.

Zero down payment: Say goodbye to the initial lump sum payment with zero down payment option on select French door refrigerators and side-by-side models.

Options and accessibility: Experience unparalleled convenience with the Bajaj Finserv EMI Network, offering a wide range of French door refrigerators and side-by-side models at partner stores across various cities.

Exciting deals and cashback offers: Opt for the Bajaj Finserv EMI Network Card to purchase a French door refrigerator or side-by-side model and unlock exciting deals and cashback offers.

Free home delivery: Enjoy the added convenience of free home delivery on select French door refrigerators and side-by-side models, ensuring a seamless shopping experience.

Bajaj Finserv app for all your financial needs and goals

Trusted by 50 million+ customers in India, Bajaj Finserv App is a one-stop solution for all your financial needs and goals.

You can use the Bajaj Finserv App to:

  • Apply for loans online, such as Instant Personal Loan, Home Loan, Business Loan, Gold Loan, and more.
  • Invest in fixed deposits and mutual funds on the app.
  • Choose from multiple insurance for your health, motor and even pocket insurance, from various insurance providers.
  • Pay and manage your bills and recharges using the BBPS platform. Use Bajaj Pay and Bajaj Wallet for quick and simple money transfers and transactions.
  • Apply for Insta EMI Card and get a pre-qualified limit on the app. Explore over 1 million products on the app that can be purchased from a partner store on Easy EMIs.
  • Shop from over 100+ brand partners that offer a diverse range of products and services.
  • Use specialised tools like EMI calculators, SIP Calculators
  • Check your credit score, download loan statements and even get quick customer support—all on the app.

Download the Bajaj Finserv App today and experience the convenience of managing your finances on one app.

Do more with the Bajaj Finserv App!

UPI, Wallet, Loans, Investments, Cards, Shopping and more

Disclaimer

While care is taken to update the information, products, and services included in or available on our website and related platforms/websites, there may be inadvertent inaccuracies or typographical errors or delays in updating the information. The material contained in this site, and on associated web pages, is for reference and general information purpose and the details mentioned in the respective product/service document shall prevail in case of any inconsistency. Subscribers and users should seek professional advice before acting on the basis of the information contained herein. Please take an informed decision with respect to any product or service after going through the relevant product/service document and applicable terms and conditions. In case any inconsistencies observed, please click on reach us.

*Terms and conditions apply

Show All Text

Frequently asked questions

What distinguishes a French door refrigerator from a side-by-side refrigerator?
A French door refrigerator distinguishes itself with its top section featuring two narrow doors that open to reveal a wide interior space for fresh food, while the freezer is typically located at the bottom in a pull-out drawer format. In contrast, a side-by-side refrigerator divides its interior vertically, offering equal space for fresh and frozen items through two doors that run from top to bottom. This layout allows for better organisation of items but may limit storage space for wider items compared to the French door design.

Why might someone prefer a French door refrigerator over a side-by-side model?
Someone might prefer a French door refrigerator over a side-by-side model for several reasons. French door refrigerators typically offer wider shelves and more flexible storage options in the fresh food compartment, making it easier to store large items like platters or pizza boxes. The bottom-drawer freezer in French door models also allows for better organisation and easier access to frozen items. Additionally, they often come with energy-efficient features and a stylish design with double doors, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of modern kitchens.

When is a side-by-side refrigerator more suitable than a French door refrigerator?
A side-by-side refrigerator is more suitable when space is limited or if you prefer a narrower appliance that fits well in smaller kitchens. Its vertical design allows for easy access to both fresh and frozen foods without requiring as much space for the doors to swing open. Additionally, side-by-side models often come with features like water and ice dispensers that are conveniently located at eye level. If you prioritise organisation, accessibility, and efficiency in a compact kitchen layout, a side-by-side refrigerator may be the ideal choice for you.

What are the benefits of a French door refrigerator compared to a side-by-side one?
A French door refrigerator offers several benefits over a side-by-side model. It typically provides wider shelves and drawers in the fresh food section, making it easier to store and access larger items like platters or pizza boxes. The bottom-mount freezer also offers more usable space and is often more organised. Additionally, French door refrigerators are generally more energy-efficient and have a sleek, modern appearance that enhances kitchen aesthetics. These features combine to offer greater flexibility in storage, efficiency in usage, and a stylish addition to your kitchen.

Show More Show Less