GE 21.8 Cu. Ft. Side-by-Side Refrigerator review with advanced features and design

Description

Sleek and Practical Design

The GE® 21.8 Cu. Ft. Counter-Depth Fingerprint Resistant Side-By-Side Refrigerator brings a sleek, modern look to my kitchen with its stainless steel finish. The counter-depth design fits flush with my cabinets, giving it that built-in aesthetic that makes my kitchen look more polished. One thing I noticed immediately was how the fingerprint-resistant surface really does work. With kids constantly opening and closing the doors, I expected to see smudges everywhere, but a quick wipe keeps it looking spotless. I also appreciated the hidden hinges, which add to that smooth, professional appearance.

Though the exterior is stunning, the dimensions (69 ½ H x 35 ¾ W x 30 ¾ D) might be something to consider. If you have tighter spaces, double-check the measurements because this refrigerator isn’t small, despite its counter-depth design.

Superior Interior Storage Options

Inside, the layout is incredibly thoughtful. The refrigerator boasts edge-to-edge shelves, which maximize storage space while keeping everything organized. I’ve stored everything from large platters to small jars without feeling cramped. The adjustable, see-through door shelves are another bonus, especially for those bulky containers of juice or milk that usually take up so much room.

The three pull-out drawers with clear fronts are perfect for produce. I’ve found that vegetables and fruits stay fresh longer because the drawers are sealed well. And let’s talk about the bonus freezer shelf above the icemaker—it’s a lifesaver for smaller frozen items like popsicles or ice packs. However, while the freezer space is decent, the 7.56 cubic feet capacity might feel a bit tight for larger families or those who like to stock up.

Advanced Features for Convenience

I’ve been really impressed with the showcase LED lighting. Having seven flush-mounted lights ensures I can find even the tiniest jar of mustard hiding in the back. It’s bright, crisp, and doesn’t waste space. The electronic display makes temperature adjustments a breeze; I no longer have to guess if my fridge is running too cold or too warm.

The external water and ice dispenser is another standout feature. Whether I need filtered water or cubed/crushed ice, it’s right there on the door. This is especially handy during gatherings when everyone’s grabbing drinks. Plus, the advanced water filtration system gives me peace of mind, knowing it removes impurities and even trace pharmaceuticals.

One feature I didn’t expect to love as much as I do is the door alarm. It’s such a simple thing, but when someone accidentally leaves the door open, the alarm saves me from wasting energy or spoiling food.

Upsides

• Fingerprint-resistant finish keeps the exterior looking clean.
• Counter-depth design integrates seamlessly into kitchen spaces.
• Showcase LED lighting makes every corner of the fridge easy to see.
• Advanced water filtration enhances water and ice quality.
• Hidden hinges and sleek design add a professional touch to the kitchen.

Limitations

• Freezer space might feel limited for larger households.
• Dimensions could be challenging for smaller kitchens.
• Shabbos Keeper compatibility is an additional purchase, not included.

Competitive Options

When comparing this refrigerator to other side-by-side refrigerators, its fingerprint-resistant surface and showcase LED lighting definitely stand out. I’ve used a few models from other brands, and while they might offer larger freezer spaces, they often lack the thoughtful details like the bonus freezer shelf or the sealed produce drawers.

One competitor I considered was a model from LG, which boasted a slightly larger capacity. However, its exterior smudged easily, and the water dispenser was more prone to splashing. Samsung’s similar side-by-side model had an edge in terms of freezer size but lacked the adaptive defrost technology that reduces energy use and freezer burn.

Value for Money

This refrigerator feels like a solid investment for what it offers. The thoughtful design features like the hidden hinges, electronic display, and door alarm make everyday use convenient and stress-free. While it might not be the most budget-friendly option out there, its price-to-quality ratio is hard to beat. If you’re looking for a refrigerator that combines style, practicality, and modern features, this one delivers.

It’s not without its flaws, and it may not be ideal for every household, especially those requiring extensive freezer storage. But for someone like me who values aesthetics, convenience, and functionality, it’s a great fit.

Additional information