What Is A Counter-Depth Refrigerator?

What Is A Counter-Depth Refrigerator?


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Your kitchen isn't just a cooking zone; it's a stage where tasty treats meet cherished moments and allow your personality to shine through your appliances. When it comes to selecting the perfect kitchen appliances, the refrigerator takes center stage as one of the largest and most frequently used. Join us as we explore the world of refrigeration and guide you toward the ideal choice for your home, ensuring the perfect balance of elegance and functionality is achieved, whether you choose a standard-depth or counter-depth refrigerator. 

Explore Refrigerators

Counter-Depth Refrigeration vs. Standard-Depth

At Rustic Kitchen and Bath, we're all about bringing you the best in refrigeration. Two of the most common styles are counter-depth models and standard-depth models. Counter-depth refrigerators and standard-depth refrigerators have their own unique features, with their primary distinction lying in their dimensions and integration within kitchen spaces. It’s important to understand the differences between the two when selecting a refrigerator for your kitchen.

What Is A Counter-Depth Refrigerator?

A counter-depth refrigerator is designed to align with the cabinetry and countertops in your kitchen. Unlike other refrigerators that are clunky, counter-depth is favored for their aesthetic appeal and ability to blend seamlessly with the cabinetry for that sleek appearance. Now, we can't talk about counter-depth refrigeration without mentioning a Rustic Kitchen and Bath best-seller, ZLINE 36 in. Freestanding French Door Refrigerator with External Water and Ice Dispenser (RFM-W-36).

ZLINE 36 in. 21.6 cu. ft. Counter-Depth French Door Refrigerator with Water and Ice Dispenser in Fingerprint-Resistant Stainless Steel (RFM-W-36)

ZLINE 36 in. 21.6 cu. ft. Counter-Depth French Door Refrigerator with Water and Ice Dispenser in Fingerprint-Resistant Stainless Steel (RFM-W-36)

$4,229.99 $4,699.99

Luxury isn’t meant to be desired - it’s meant to be attainable. The ZLINE 36 in. 21.6 cu. ft. Counter-Depth French Door Refrigerator with Water and Ice Dispenser in Fingerprint-Resistant Stainless Steel (RFM-W-36) delivers an elevated experience by pairing innovative… Read More

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Exact Dimensions of ZLINE's Counter-Depth Refrigerator:

35.75 in. W x 28.8125 in. D x 69.6875 in. H

Total Capacity:

21.6 cubic feet

Beneficial Features:

  • Counter Depth Design: Designed to fit flush with your countertops, providing an integrated appearance that's smooth like butter!

  • Adjustable Refrigerator Temperature: Create the perfect cooling environment to suit your needs with temperatures ranging from 34°F to 44°F for optimal freshness.

  • Adjustable Freezer Temperature: Keep your food frosty-fresh and achieve the perfect cooling environment tailored to your liking with temperatures ranging from -7°F to 7°F.

  • Dual Cooling: Keep chill vibes all around with separate refrigerator and freezer cooling systems, ensuring air and odors are not mixed, all while providing fast and efficient cooling.

  • External Water Dispenser and Ice Maker: Enjoy on-demand, fresh, filtered water and up to 4 lbs of ice per day with an automatic ice maker in the freezer!











It's no secret why the ZLINE Counter-Depth Refrigerator has earned its title as a fan favorite with its chic and cohesive design and impressive features. And speaking of high-end, affordable refrigeration, it's about time we introduce our newest release, the ZLINE 36 in. Standard-depth Refrigerator with Dual Ice Maker (RSM-W-36).

ZLINE 36 in. 28.9 cu. ft. Standard-Depth French Door External Water Dispenser Refrigerator with Dual Ice Maker in Fingerprint-Resistant Stainless Steel (RSM-W-36)

ZLINE 36 in. 28.9 cu. ft. Standard-Depth French Door External Water Dispenser Refrigerator with Dual Ice Maker in Fingerprint-Resistant Stainless Steel (RSM-W-36)

$3,329.99 $3,699.99

Luxury isn’t meant to be desired — it’s meant to be attainable. The ZLINE 36 in. 28.9 cu. ft. Standard-Depth French Door External Water Dispenser Refrigerator with Dual Ice Maker in Fingerprint-Resistant Stainless Steel (RSM-W-36) features a state-of-the-art cooling system,… Read More

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What is a Standard-Depth Refrigerator?

Unlike counter-depth refrigerators, standard-depth refrigerators typically extend beyond the counter line in the kitchen, providing a deeper profile and giving a more traditional look.

Exact Dimensions of ZLINE's Standard Depth-Refrigerator:

35.75 in. W x 34 in. D x 69.88 in. H

Cutout Dimensions:

37.25 in. W x 31.5 in. D x 71.88 in. H

Total Capacity:

28.9 cubic feet

Beneficial Features:

  • Standard-Depth Design: Elevate your kitchen's focal point with a refrigerator that effortlessly merges into your kitchen design while offering ample space for your food.

  • External Water and Ice Dispenser: Keep the refreshments flowing effortlessly with the convenience of filtered water and customizable ice options available at your fingertips from a sleek in-door dispenser.

  • Dual Ice Makers: Never run out of ice during your gatherings! With the ability to produce nearly 7 pounds of ice daily, the drinks never stop.

  • Super Cool and Super Freeze Modes: Save time and quickly chill food with unique functions that automatically set the fridge temperature to 34°F and freezer to -7°F.

  • Sabbath Mode: Who wouldn't want to save energy? Sabbath mode conserves energy by deactivating interior lights and control panel functions all while keeping your doors open.


It's evident why ZLINE's newest standard-depth refrigerator is stealing the show with its spacious design and impressive features. It's the perfect choice for families who prioritize storage capacity, ensuring they have a well-stocked fridge with every ingredient needed for creating the family's favorite dishes.

Whether you opt for standard-depth or counter-depth refrigeration, you can expect to say goodbye to fridge troubles and hello to worry-free chilling with the ZLINE warranty! Feel confident with a 5-year warranty for the sealed system parts, including the compressor, evaporator coil, condenser coil, and filter drier, along with a 1-year parts and labor warranty. Beyond their warranty coverage, both refrigeration systems are ENERGY STAR® Rated, showcasing superior insulation and advanced temperature controls to minimize energy consumption.

Which Refrigerator Is Right For You?

Ultimately, choosing between counter-depth and standard-depth refrigeration depends on your kitchen layout, personal preferences, and lifestyle choices. Whether you prioritize interior capacity, seamless integration, or energy efficiency, ZLINE has the refrigeration needed to enhance your kitchen experience.

Explore RefrigeratorsWe hope this information has provided you with some food for thought! When you're ready to make your refrigeration choice, know that both of these options are available from us here at Rustic Kitchen and Bath. If you have any questions, please reach out to us! Let's get that kitchen glow-up started!

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FAQs

What is a counter-depth refrigerator?

A counter-depth refrigerator is designed to align closely with standard kitchen cabinetry and countertops, creating a built-in, streamlined appearance. Unlike standard-depth models, it does not extend far past the counter line, resulting in a cleaner and more cohesive kitchen design.

How is a counter-depth refrigerator different from a standard-depth refrigerator?

The primary difference is depth and capacity. Counter-depth refrigerators are shallower and sit nearly flush with cabinets, prioritizing aesthetics. Standard-depth refrigerators are deeper, extend beyond the counters, and offer significantly more interior storage space.

Do counter-depth refrigerators hold less food?

Yes, counter-depth refrigerators typically have less total capacity than standard-depth models due to their reduced depth. They are ideal for homeowners who value design and organization over maximum storage volume.

Why do homeowners choose counter-depth refrigerators?

Homeowners often choose counter-depth refrigerators for their sleek, built-in look. They enhance visual flow, reduce appliance protrusion, and create a more upscale kitchen appearance, especially in modern or custom-designed spaces.

Are counter-depth refrigerators more expensive?

Counter-depth refrigerators often cost more than standard-depth models with similar features because of their specialized design and cabinetry-aligned construction. However, many homeowners find the aesthetic upgrade well worth the investment.

Are counter-depth refrigerators considered built-in appliances?

No. While they offer a built-in look, counter-depth refrigerators are still freestanding appliances. True built-in refrigerators are fully enclosed by cabinetry and typically require professional installation.

Do counter-depth refrigerators still offer modern features?

Absolutely. Counter-depth refrigerators commonly include features such as dual cooling systems, adjustable temperature zones, external water and ice dispensers, ENERGY STAR® efficiency, and advanced temperature controls.

Is a counter-depth refrigerator good for small kitchens?

Yes, counter-depth refrigerators are an excellent choice for small or narrow kitchens because they reduce visual bulk and improve traffic flow without sacrificing essential functionality.

How do I know if a counter-depth refrigerator will fit my kitchen?

Always measure your space carefully, including width, height, depth, and door swing clearance. It is also important to account for ventilation clearances recommended by the manufacturer.

What type of homeowner benefits most from a counter-depth refrigerator?

Counter-depth refrigerators are ideal for homeowners who prioritize kitchen design, clean lines, and visual balance. They are especially popular in open-concept kitchens, high-end remodels, and homes where appliances are a focal design element.

Is a standard-depth refrigerator a better choice for families?

For larger families or those who prioritize storage capacity, a standard-depth refrigerator may be the better option. It provides more space for groceries, bulk storage, and entertaining needs.

Which is better overall: counter-depth or standard-depth?

Neither option is universally better. Counter-depth refrigerators excel in aesthetics and seamless integration, while standard-depth refrigerators offer superior storage capacity. The right choice depends on your kitchen layout, lifestyle, and design priorities.

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