Top Freezers vs. Side-by-Side: Pros and Cons—Which Refrigerator Is Better for You?

Top Freezers vs. Side-by-Side: Pros and Cons—Which Refrigerator Is Better for You?

Written for PRS Appliances

Choosing the right refrigerator isn’t just about capacity or color—it’s about layout, lifestyle, and how you use your kitchen. At PRS Appliances, we help customers across Hawaii find the perfect refrigerator for their space and needs. Two of the most popular designs—top freezer and side-by-side—each come with their own strengths and drawbacks.

Here’s how they compare to help you decide which refrigerator style is right for your home.

🧊 Top Freezer Refrigerators

Pros:

  • Affordable Price Point: Typically more budget-friendly than other designs.

  • Energy Efficient: Uses less energy than many other styles due to simple design and top-cooled gravity air flow.

  • Compact Size: Ideal for smaller kitchens, apartments, or secondary use (like garage fridges).

  • More Freezer Space at Eye-Level: Convenient if you access frozen items often.

Cons:

  • Refrigerator Section is Lower: You’ll need to bend down more frequently to access fresh foods.

  • Fewer Features: Limited in high-end features like water dispensers or smart tech.

  • Less Stylish Appearance: Basic design may not suit modern kitchen aesthetics.

Best for: Budget-conscious households, apartments, and families who freeze more than they chill.

🧊 Side-by-Side Refrigerators

Pros:

  • Easy Access: Vertical split gives equal access to fridge and freezer—great for frequent freezer use.

  • Organized Storage: Shelves make it easier to sort and access items top to bottom.

  • Modern Features: Often comes with water/ice dispensers, digital controls, and sleek designs.

  • Narrow Doors: Better for kitchens with limited door swing space.

Cons:

  • Less Freezer Width: Can be difficult to store large frozen items like pizza boxes or wide trays.

  • Energy Use: Generally less efficient than top freezer models.

  • Higher Price Point: Often more expensive due to added features.

Best for: Medium to large families, cooks who use frozen and fresh food evenly, and kitchens with limited clearance.

🌺 A Hawaii Perspective

Living in Hawaii means higher electricity costs and often smaller kitchen spaces, so efficiency and fit matter. A top freezer may be the better choice for ohana-style households or garage setups. However, if you're upgrading your main kitchen refrigerator and want style with features, a side-by-side offers convenience and function.

Still Not Sure?

Stop by PRS Appliances to compare both styles in person. We offer scratch-and-dent and second-channel refrigerators at unbeatable prices.

📍 Visit us at 540 Lagoon Dr. and let us help you find the perfect refrigerator for your home. Service with the Spirit of Aloha.

Back to blog