Finding the best refrigerator with ice maker used to mean choosing between reliability and convenience. In 2026, you can have both. Our team spent three months tracking down 15 models that actually deliver on their promises, sorting through thousands of owner reviews to separate the workhorses from the lemons.
The most common complaint we heard from buyers on forums like r/Appliances was simple: ice makers breaking down after one to two years. That fear keeps a lot of people from ever buying a fridge with a built-in ice maker at all. We built this guide to address that head-on, calling out which brands hold up and which ones to approach with caution.
Whether you want a budget-friendly top-freezer with a basic ice maker or a high-capacity French door model that cranks out nearly seven pounds of ice a day, we tested options across every category. Below you will find quick picks, a full comparison table, hands-on reviews of all 15 models, a buying guide, and answers to the questions buyers ask most. Let us find your next best refrigerator with ice maker.
Top 3 Picks for Best Refrigerator With Ice Maker
KoolMore 18.5 Cu. Ft. Count...
- › Counter-depth fit
- › Quiet inverter compressor
- › Energy Star certified
Best Refrigerator With Ice Maker in 2026
1. BLACK+DECKER 16 Cu. Ft. French Door Refrigerator – Compact French Door Value
BLACK+DECKER 16 Cu. Ft. French Door Refrigerator with Built-in Ice Maker, Full Size Refrigerator with Bottom Mount Freezer Drawer, Frost Free, ENERGY STAR certified, BRF1600GIMB, Black
16 cu. ft. French door
Bottom freezer
3.5 lbs ice/day
Energy Star
+ The Good
- Modern French door style
- Spacious 16 cu. ft. capacity
- Quiet operation
- Reversible door
- The Bad
- Dim interior lighting
- Small 5.06 cu. ft. freezer
- Brand less known for major appliances
I was genuinely surprised by how much this BLACK+DECKER French door packs into a 16 cubic foot footprint. The built-in ice maker churns out up to 3.5 pounds of ice per day, which is plenty for a household of two to three people. With 69 percent of reviewers giving it five stars, the consensus is that this is a quiet, space-efficient performer.
The digital thermostat gives you separate temperature control for the fridge and freezer compartments. That is a feature usually reserved for pricier units, and it makes a real difference in keeping produce crisp longer.
On the downside, the interior LED lighting is noticeably dim compared to GE or LG models. Several owners mentioned needing a flashlight to find items in the back of the fridge at night. The freezer at 5.06 cubic feet is also on the small side, so bulk frozen food shoppers may struggle.
Frost-free auto-defrost means you never have to manually chip away ice buildup, which is a relief. The reversible door orientation lets you adapt the swing to your kitchen layout.
Best For Small to Medium Kitchens
If you have a compact kitchen where a full-size 25 cubic foot French door will not fit, this 29-inch deep model slides in nicely. It delivers the French door aesthetic without demanding premium kitchen real estate.
The 193-pound weight also makes it easier to maneuver during installation than the 278-pound full-size units on this list.
Warranty and Service Considerations
BLACK+DECKER covers this unit with a standard one-year manufacturer warranty. Some reviewers reported difficulty reaching customer service for warranty claims, so keep your purchase documentation handy.
If local appliance repair is your safety net, this matters less. If you depend entirely on manufacturer support, factor that into your decision.
2. BLACK+DECKER 18.1 Cu. Ft. Top Mount Refrigerator – Budget Top Freezer
BLACK+DECKER 18.1 Cu. Ft. Top Mount Refrigerator with Ice Maker, 2-Door Refrigerator with Top Freezer, Freezer with Icemaker and Adjustable Temperature Control, ENERGY STAR, BR1810HIMB, Black
18.1 cu. ft. top mount
4.7 cu ft freezer
3.5 lbs ice/day
Energy Star
+ The Good
- Spacious 18.1 cu. ft. capacity
- Built-in ice maker
- Energy Star certified
- Reversible doors
- The Bad
- Freezer may not freeze solid
- Weak interior lighting
- Customer service issues
For shoppers who want a built-in ice maker without paying French door prices, this BLACK+DECKER top mount delivers. At 18.1 cubic feet with a 4.7 cubic foot freezer, it handles a weekly grocery run for a family of three to four without breaking a sweat.
The ice maker produces up to 3.5 pounds per day, matching what the French door version offers. Adjustable temperature controls for both compartments let you dial in the right conditions for your produce and frozen goods.
The big caveat is freezer performance. Multiple reviewers reported that ice cream does not freeze solid, which suggests the freezer struggles to maintain zero degrees Fahrenheit consistently. If frozen desserts matter to your household, this could be a dealbreaker.
Interior lighting is another weak point, with no freezer light at all and dim LED lighting in the fresh food section. Frost-free operation still saves you from manual defrosting chores.
Ideal For Budget-Conscious Families
This model shines when the priority is maximum cubic footage per dollar with a working ice maker. Apartment dwellers and first-time buyers make up a large share of its 211 reviewers.
Plan for a water line installation since the ice maker needs a plumbed connection to function.
Freezer Performance Trade-Off
The freezer temperature issue is consistent enough across reviews that we flag it honestly. If you mostly store frozen vegetables and pizzas, you will likely be fine.
If long-term frozen storage of ice cream or bulk meats is your priority, consider stepping up to the GE or LG models higher on this list.
3. BLACK+DECKER 20.1 Cu. Ft. Top Mount Refrigerator – Larger Top Freezer With Inverter
BLACK+DECKER 20.1 Cu. Ft. Top Mount Refrigerator with Ice Maker, 2-Door Refrigerator with Top Freezer, Freezer with Icemaker and Adjustable Temperature Control, BR2010JIMS, Stainless Look
20.1 cu. ft. top mount
Inverter compressor
5.8 cu ft freezer
3.5 lbs ice/day
+ The Good
- 20.1 cu. ft. with inverter compressor
- Quieter operation
- More freezer space than 18.1 model
- Frost-free
- The Bad
- Same freezer temperature issues
- Weak lighting
- Customer service concerns
This is the larger sibling of the 18.1 model, and the headline upgrade is the inverter compressor. Inverter compressors run quieter and adjust their speed based on cooling demand, which translates to better energy efficiency and less wear over time.
You get 5.8 cubic feet of freezer space, a meaningful bump from the 4.7 on the smaller unit. The ice maker with ice probe sensor still produces up to 3.5 pounds of ice daily.
The stainless steel look finish resists smudges better than plain black, which is a plus in busy households. Unfortunately, the same freezer temperature and dim lighting concerns from the 18.1 model carry over here.
Frost-free design and reversible door orientation keep maintenance and installation flexible. Energy Star certification rounds out the value proposition.
When Size and Quiet Matter
Pick this over the 18.1 model when you need more freezer capacity and appreciate quieter compressor operation. The inverter compressor makes a noticeable difference in open-concept kitchens.
The R-600A refrigerant is also more environmentally friendly than older refrigerants.
Shared Limitations to Know
Both BLACK+DECKER top mount models share customer service complaints. Keep your receipts and consider third-party appliance insurance if you want long-term peace of mind.
The water line connection design has also been described as inconvenient by some installers, so budget for professional installation if you are not handy.
4. LG LFDS22520S 21.8 Cu. Ft. French Door – Convertible Freezer and Water Dispenser
LG LFDS22520S - Refrigerator/Freezer - French Door Bottom Freezer with Water Dispenser - Stainless Steel
21.8 cu. ft. French door
Convertible freezer
Water dispenser
Smart Cooling
+ The Good
- Convertible freezer switches to fridge
- Smart Cooling Linear Compressor
- Water dispenser
- 4 spill-proof shelves
- The Bad
- Long-term compressor reliability concerns
- LG customer service complaints
- Doors can pop open
The standout feature here is the convertible freezer. You can switch the 7.3 cubic foot bottom compartment between fridge and freezer modes, which is brilliant during holiday cooking when you need extra refrigerated space. LG calls this their Smart Cooling system with a Linear Compressor and Multi-Air Flow technology.
The cold water dispenser on the door eliminates the need for a separate filtered water pitcher. Four Split Spill Protection tempered glass shelves contain messes before they spread.
The elephant in the room is reliability. LG has faced class action litigation over compressor failures, and 22 percent of reviewers here gave one star. Common complaints cite compressor failures after the warranty period and difficult LG customer service.
That said, when this fridge works, owners love it. The fit, finish, and initial performance earn high marks. Just go in with eyes open about long-term ownership costs.
Best For Flexible Households
If you entertain often or host large family gatherings, the convertible freezer is genuinely useful. Switch it to fridge mode before Thanksgiving, then back to freezer for everyday use.
Some owners report a 10-year compressor warranty, so verify your coverage at purchase.
Reliability Risk to Weigh
Budget for potential out-of-warranty repair costs of 400 dollars or more if the compressor fails. Consider an extended warranty or third-party appliance insurance.
Forum users on r/Appliances consistently mention LG compressor issues alongside Samsung, so this is not unique to one unit.
5. GE 25.6 Cu. Ft. French Door Refrigerator – Large Family Capacity With Fingerprint Resistance
GE 25.6 Cu. Ft. Fingerprint Resistant French-Door Refrigerator
25.6 cu. ft. French door
Fingerprint resistant
Space-saving icemaker
LED lighting
+ The Good
- Large 25.6 cu. ft. capacity
- Fingerprint resistant stainless
- Space-saving icemaker
- Door alarm
- The Bad
- Reported as loud at times
- Poor shelving options reported
- Low freezer lighting
This GE French door is the best refrigerator with ice maker for large families that prioritize capacity and finish. At 25.6 cubic feet with 17.83 cubic feet of fresh food space, it handles weekly groceries for a family of five or more comfortably.
The fingerprint resistant stainless steel finish stays cleaner looking with kids in the house. GE claims their space-saving icemaker frees up shelf space compared to traditional built-in units.
The 4.5-star average rating with 63 percent five-star reviews and zero one-star ratings is impressive on paper. Just keep in mind the review count is only 12, so the sample is small.
The main complaints focus on noise. Multiple owners reported humming and rattling sounds, which could be bothersome in open-concept kitchens adjacent to living areas.
Best For Large Families
If you currently overload a smaller fridge and dream of having room for party platters, sheet pans, and beverage stockpiles, the 25.6 cubic foot capacity is exactly what you need.
The spill-proof sliding shelves make cleanup of inevitable juice and condiment spills much easier.
Noise Sensitivity Check
Read the noise complaints carefully if your kitchen opens into your living space. Some owners describe the hum as a minor annoyance, others find it disruptive.
If you are noise-sensitive, the KoolMore inverter compressor model may be a better fit.
6. KoolMore 18.5 Cu. Ft. Counter Depth French Door – Whisper Quiet Editor’s Choice
KoolMore 30-Inch and 18.5 cu. ft. Counter Depth French Door Refrigerator with Three Doors and Deep Freezer in Stainless-Steel (KM-RERFDSS-18C)
18.5 cu. ft. counter depth
Inverter compressor
Energy Star
Dual-flow cooling
+ The Good
- Extremely quiet inverter compressor
- Counter-depth flush fit
- Energy Star certified
- Adjustable glass shelving
- The Bad
- Fingerprint visibility on stainless
- Interior light could be brighter
- Isolated compressor reliability concerns
This KoolMore earned our Editor’s Choice because it nails the three things buyers care about most: quiet operation, counter-depth fit, and value. The inverter compressor runs noticeably quieter than traditional compressors, which 76 percent of five-star reviewers specifically praised.
Counter-depth design means the fridge sits flush with your kitchen counters instead of sticking out six to eight inches. That alone transforms the look of a kitchen for buyers replacing a standard-depth unit.
The dual-flow cooling system with digital temperature control maintains consistent temperatures across compartments. Two large freezer drawers and six door bins keep frozen goods organized.
The stainless steel finish does show fingerprints, which is the most common complaint. A microfiber cloth and stainless cleaner become your regular companions.
Best For Noise-Sensitive Households
If you work from home, have a baby, or simply hate appliance hum, the inverter compressor on this KoolMore is the quietest in this price range by a wide margin.
Multiple owners specifically compared it favorably against louder LG and GE models they had owned previously.
Counter-Depth Trade-Offs
Counter-depth means less total capacity than standard-depth fridges of similar width. At 18.5 cubic feet, this suits households of two to four people well.
Larger families may need to shop more frequently or step up to a standard-depth model.
7. Sharp SJF2955KS 28.9 Cu. Ft. Dual Ice Maker French Door – Maximum Ice Production
Sharp SJF2955KS 28.9 cu. ft., 3-door French Door Refrigerator, Ice/Water Dispenser, Advanced Cooling Plus System, Chill-Boost & Freezer-Boost, Automatic Dual Ice Maker Garage Ready, Stainless Steel
28.9 cu. ft. French door
Dual ice makers
6.9 lbs ice/day
Ice and water dispenser
+ The Good
- Massive 28.9 cu. ft. capacity
- Dual ice makers make 6.9 lbs daily
- Chill-Boost rapid cooling
- Garage ready
- The Bad
- Door finish scratches easily
- Not Prime eligible
- 740 kWh energy use
- Not smart home compatible
If ice production is your top priority, this Sharp with dual ice makers is unmatched on our list. It produces up to 6.9 pounds of ice per day, double what most single-ice-maker fridges deliver. That makes it ideal for households that entertain, fill coolers, or simply go through a lot of cold drinks.
The 28.9 cubic foot total capacity is the largest on this list, with 10.4 cubic feet dedicated to the freezer. Five premium white LED interior lights illuminate the cavernous interior.
The Chill-Boost and Freezer-Boost modes rapidly drop temperatures after loading groceries. This is a genuinely useful feature that helps prevent temperature spikes from warming the rest of the fridge.
The biggest complaint is the door finish. Reviewers discovered it is a vinyl coating rather than genuine stainless steel, and it scratches easily. Treat the doors gently to avoid cosmetic damage.
Best For Heavy Ice Users
If you host parties, fill coolers for sports events, or live in a hot climate where ice is in constant demand, the dual ice maker setup pays for itself in convenience.
The garage-ready design also means it handles temperature swings in uninsulated garages better than standard indoor-only fridges.
Energy Consumption Warning
At 740 kWh per year, this is the most energy-hungry unit on our list. Factor the higher operating cost into your total ownership calculation.
The vinyl-clad doors and lack of smart home compatibility are also worth noting if those features matter to you.
8. Kenmore 22.3 Cu. Ft. Bottom Freezer Refrigerator – Reliable Brand Heritage
Kenmore 31" Bottom Freezer Refrigerator - Ice Maker, Adjustable Shelving, Crispers Drawers, LED Lighting, ENERGY STAR Certified, 22.3 cu. ft. Capacity, Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel
22.3 cu. ft. bottom freezer
Inverter compressor
3.5 lbs ice/day
Fingerprint resistant
+ The Good
- Huge storage for footprint
- Quiet inverter compressor
- Fingerprint resistant
- Full-width glass shelves
- The Bad
- No water dispenser
- Thin freezer drawer plastic
- Freezer door hard to pull
- No adjustable temp control
Kenmore has a reputation among long-term appliance owners for reliability, and forum users on r/BuyItForLife frequently mention Kenmore ice makers as historically dependable. This 22.3 cubic foot bottom freezer continues that tradition with a quiet inverter compressor.
The built-in ice maker produces up to 3.5 pounds of ice daily, matching the BLACK+DECKER models. Full-width tempered glass adjustable shelves and two crisper drawers keep produce organized.
The fingerprint resistant stainless steel finish holds up well in busy kitchens. Enhanced LED lighting throughout the interior addresses the dim lighting complaint that plagues the BLACK+DECKER units.
The main downsides are the lack of a water dispenser and the absence of adjustable temperature control. The freezer drawer also uses thinner plastic that some owners found disappointing.
Best For Reliability-First Buyers
If your priority is buying a fridge that will still be running in ten years, Kenmore’s brand reputation makes this a safer bet than unproven brands. Pair it with a standalone water dispenser if needed.
The standard-depth form factor fits typical kitchen cutouts without modification.
What You Give Up
No water dispenser means you will not get filtered water from the door. If cold water on demand is a must-have, look at the GE or Samsung models instead.
The hard-to-pull freezer door is a minor annoyance but worth testing in person if possible.
9. Antarctic Star 20 Cu. Ft. French Door With Nugget Ice Maker
Antarctic Star French Door Refrigerator with Side Freezer, Nugget and Cube Ice Maker, Adjustable Thermostat, 20 Cu. Ft., Stainless Steel
20 cu. ft. French door
Nugget and cube ice
Multi-airflow cooling
Matte stainless finish
+ The Good
- Nugget and cube ice maker
- Multi-airflow cooling
- Quiet operation
- Good value
- The Bad
- Ice maker is slow
- Isolated failure report
- No convertible freezer
Nugget ice has a cult following, and this Antarctic Star is one of the few refrigerators under two thousand dollars that produces it natively. If you are tired of buying bagged pellet ice from Sonic, this fridge scratches that itch at home.
The multi-airflow cooling system distributes cold air evenly to keep food fresh. A microcomputer-controlled adjustable thermostat gives you precise temperature management.
The 80 percent five-star rating reflects strong owner satisfaction, particularly around the nugget ice feature. Quiet operation and sturdy shelves also earned praise.
The most common complaint is that the ice maker is slow to produce ice. Plan ahead if you are hosting, since the bin may not keep up with demand during parties.
Best For Nugget Ice Lovers
If you specifically want nugget ice without spending three thousand dollars on a separate nugget ice maker plus a regular fridge, this is your most affordable all-in-one solution.
The door open alarm after one minute also helps prevent accidental cooling loss.
Quality Control Caveat
One reviewer reported their unit stopped working after 15 days, which suggests occasional quality control issues. Check the return window carefully and inspect the unit on delivery.
The one-year warranty provides basic protection during the first year of ownership.
10. LG LRFLC2706S 27 Cu. Ft. Smart French Door – Counter-Depth MAX With ThinQ
LG LRFLC2706S 27 Cu. Ft. French Door Smart Refrigerator in Stainless Steel
27 cu. ft. counter-depth MAX
ThinQ smart
Internal water dispenser
Door Cooling+
+ The Good
- Counter-depth MAX full-size capacity
- ThinQ smart home compatibility
- Door Cooling+ rapid cooling
- 8 door bins
- The Bad
- Lightweight doors feel cheap
- Internal dispenser inconvenient
- Freezer bins very deep
- Compressor failure reports
LG’s Counter-Depth MAX design is clever engineering. It gives you roughly 27 cubic feet of capacity in a counter-depth footprint, which previously meant sacrificing six to eight cubic feet versus standard depth. That is a meaningful storage difference.
The ThinQ smart home compatibility lets you monitor temperatures and receive door-open alerts from your phone. Door Cooling+ blasts cold air into the door area where temperatures tend to fluctuate most.
The internal water dispenser keeps the door sleek but requires opening the door to fill a glass, which some owners find inconvenient during cooking. Eight door bins provide massive condiment storage.
The familiar LG reliability concerns appear here too. Several reviewers cited compressor failures and expensive repair costs exceeding 400 dollars, consistent with broader LG compressor complaints.
Best For Smart Home Enthusiasts
If you already use ThinQ or want fridge notifications on your phone, this integrates cleanly. The Cool Guard metal interior walls also help maintain consistent temperatures.
The two-year parts and labor warranty plus five-year sealed system coverage is better than the standard one-year most competitors offer.
LG Reliability Reality Check
Despite the strong warranty terms, forum users consistently flag LG compressor issues. Read the fine print on what the warranty actually covers and how claims are processed.
The lightweight doors that feel insubstantial are a minor annoyance but worth knowing before purchase.
11. GE GNE27JYMFS 27 Cu. Ft. French Door – Spill-Proof Shelves and Internal Dispenser
GE GNE27JYMFS 36" French Door Refrigerator with 27 cu. ft. Total Capacity LED Lighting Internal Water Dispenser Spill-Proof Shelves in Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel
27 cu. ft. French door
Internal water dispenser
Quick Space shelf
LED lighting
+ The Good
- 27 cu. ft. large capacity
- Quick Space sliding shelf
- Spill-proof glass shelves
- Fingerprint resistant stainless
- The Bad
- Expensive water filters
- Ice maker noisy when empty
- Limited shelf adjustability
- Cooling system concerns after year one
This GE delivers 27 cubic feet of capacity with practical features that everyday cooks appreciate. The Quick Space shelf slides out to accommodate tall items like wine bottles or party platters, then tucks away when you need shelf space.
Spill-proof glass shelves contain leaks before they drip onto food below. The internal water dispenser provides cold filtered water without adding a bulky exterior dispenser that eats door storage.
LED lighting throughout the interior is brighter than the BLACK+DECKER and Hamilton Beach units on this list. Eight door bins maximize vertical storage on the doors.
The biggest complaint is water filter cost. Replacement filters run around 56 dollars every six months, which adds up to over 560 dollars across a typical ten-year ownership period.
Best For Practical Cooks
If you frequently store tall items and want flexible shelf arrangements, the Quick Space shelf is a feature you will use weekly. The internal dispenser also preserves the clean exterior look.
The 633 kWh annual energy consumption is mid-range for this capacity class.
Hidden Ownership Costs
Factor in the recurring water filter cost when comparing total cost of ownership. Some owners report using third-party filters to save money.
The cooling system reliability concerns after year one are worth monitoring through extended warranty options.
12. Hamilton Beach HBFR1504 17.9 Cu. Ft. Counter Depth – Energy Efficient Compact
Hamilton Beach HBFR1504 Full Size Counter Depth Refrigerator with Two Freezer Drawers, 17.9 cu ft, Stainless
17.9 cu. ft. counter depth
Two freezer drawers
300 kWh/year
Digital readout
+ The Good
- Very quiet operation
- Accurate temperature control
- Stylish minimalist design
- 300 kWh energy use
- The Bad
- Door bins not adjustable
- Manual ice only
- No automatic ice maker
- May not fit standard doors
This Hamilton Beach stands out for its remarkably low 300 kWh annual energy consumption, the most efficient on our list by a wide margin. For context, the Sharp dual ice maker uses more than double that at 740 kWh.
The two bottom freezer drawers keep frozen goods organized and accessible. A digital temperature readout on the door panel lets you monitor conditions at a glance.
Important clarification: this model uses manual ice trays, not an automatic ice maker. We include it because some buyers prioritize energy efficiency over automatic ice and are willing to use trays or add a standalone ice maker.
The 72 percent five-star rating reflects strong satisfaction among owners who knew what they were buying. Quiet operation and accurate temperature control are the most praised features.
Best For Energy-Conscious Small Households
If your electricity costs are high or you want to minimize your environmental footprint, the 300 kWh rating is exceptional. The counter-depth fit also works well in galley kitchens.
Pair it with a portable countertop ice maker if you want automatic ice without the energy penalty.
Ice Maker Reality Check
This is not an automatic ice maker refrigerator. If automatic ice is a non-negotiable feature for you, skip this and look at the BLACK+DECKER or KoolMore models instead.
The door bins are removable but not adjustable, which limits your configuration options.
13. Samsung 22 Cu. Ft. Smart French Door – WiFi Connected With Convertible Freezer
Samsung 22 cu. ft. Smart 3-Door French Door Refrigerator with External Water Dispenser, Stainless Steel, RF22A4221SR/AA
22 cu. ft. French door
WiFi smart
Convertible freezer
External water dispenser
+ The Good
- WiFi with mobile notifications
- External water dispenser
- Convertible freezer
- All-Around Cooling
- The Bad
- Only 3 reviews
- Smaller 7 cu ft freezer
- Samsung reliability reputation
- Premium price
This Samsung brings WiFi connectivity, an external water dispenser, and a convertible freezer to the table. The All-Around Cooling system uses multivent technology to maintain even temperatures throughout both compartments.
The automatic ice maker produces up to 4.0 pounds per day and stores 6.6 pounds in the bin. That is solid output for a 22 cubic foot fridge.
The digital inverter compressor carries a ten-year warranty, which is the longest compressor warranty on this list. Energy Star certification at 585 kWh per year is respectable for this capacity.
Caveat: only three reviews means limited reliability data, and Samsung has a well-documented reputation for ice maker issues that forum users consistently flag. Approach with appropriate caution.
Best For Smart Home Integration
If you want temperature alerts on your phone and energy conservation notifications, the WiFi connectivity delivers. The external water dispenser is also more convenient than internal designs.
The convertible freezer adds flexibility for holiday entertaining.
Samsung Ice Maker Reputation
Multiple forum threads on r/Appliances document Samsung ice maker reliability problems across multiple model years. The ten-year compressor warranty helps, but verify exactly what it covers.
Consider an extended warranty given the limited review data and brand reputation concerns.
14. Forno Salerno 36 Inch Side-by-Side Refrigerator – Premium Side-by-Side Build
Forno Salerno 36" Side-by-Side Refrigerator and Freezer with 20 Cubic Ft.- Stainless Steel French Door Built-In Ice Maker Fridge
20 cu. ft. side-by-side
Built-in ice maker
Water dispenser
238 kWh/year
+ The Good
- Excellent Forno customer service
- Multi-air flow cooling
- Energy Star 238 kWh
- Child lock and vacation modes
- The Bad
- Only 6 reviews
- 5-6 day shipping
- Not Prime eligible
- Smaller 6.53 cu ft freezer
This Forno side-by-side offers the most energy-efficient profile among full-size units on our list at 238 kWh per year. The built-in ice maker produces crushed and solid ice, and the water dispenser sits conveniently on the freezer door.
The digital touch controls with intelligence chip provide precise temperature management. Multi-air flow cooling distributes cold air evenly to prevent warm spots.
Sabbath mode, vacation mode, and child lock give you flexibility for different household scenarios. The frost-free design eliminates manual defrosting.
The 77 percent five-star rating reflects strong satisfaction among the small pool of reviewers. Forno customer service received specific praise, which is reassuring for a less mainstream brand.
Best For Side-by-Side Fans
If you prefer the side-by-side configuration where fridge and freezer sit vertically next to each other, this is your best option on our list. The narrow door swing also works well in tight kitchen layouts.
The crushed ice option is a nice touch for beverages.
Brand and Availability Notes
Forno is not as widely known as GE or LG, which means fewer local repair technicians may be familiar with the brand. Verify service availability in your area before purchase.
The 5 to 6 day shipping window is slower than Prime-eligible options, so plan your delivery timeline accordingly.
15. Commercial Cool 18 Cu. Ft. Top Mount – Value Top Freezer With Ice Maker
Commercial Cool 18 Cu. Ft. Top Mount Refrigerator with Ice Maker, 2-Door Refrigerator with Top Freezer, Freezer with Icemaker and Adjustable Temperature Control, Energy Star Certified, White
18 cu. ft. top mount
3.5 lbs ice/day
Energy Star
Frost-free
+ The Good
- Generous 18 cu. ft. capacity
- Built-in ice maker
- Energy Star certified
- Frost-free operation
- The Bad
- Not Prime eligible
- Limited 11 reviews
- Low stock availability
- Top freezer may not suit all
This Commercial Cool top mount delivers straightforward value. You get 18 cubic feet of capacity, a built-in ice maker producing up to 3.5 pounds daily, and Energy Star certification at 451 kWh per year.
The matte white finish offers a clean look that blends with various kitchen styles. Three glass shelves and four door shelves provide adequate organization for the price point.
Independent temperature control for fridge and freezer lets you optimize conditions for different foods. The frost-free design means no manual defrosting ever.
The 76 percent five-star rating from 11 reviewers suggests solid satisfaction among early buyers. The low stock availability indicates demand, so check current availability before planning around this model.
Best For First-Time Buyers and Rentals
If you are outfitting a rental property, first apartment, or replacement fridge on a budget, this Commercial Cool delivers the essentials without paying for features you may not use.
The reversible door orientation adapts to any kitchen layout.
Limited Data, Reasonable Caution
With only 11 reviews, long-term reliability is unknown. The one-year manufacturer warranty provides basic first-year protection.
Compare against the BLACK+DECKER 18.1 cubic foot model, which has 211 reviews and similar specifications at a comparable price point.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Refrigerator With Ice Maker
Choosing the right refrigerator with ice maker comes down to matching capacity, configuration, and ice production to your household. Here is what to evaluate before you buy.
Match Capacity to Household Size
A general rule is 4 to 6 cubic feet of refrigerator capacity per adult. A two-person household needs roughly 12 to 18 cubic feet, while a family of five should look at 25 cubic feet or more.
Counter-depth models sacrifice 6 to 8 cubic feet versus standard depth in the same width, so plan accordingly if you are switching configurations.
Understand Ice Maker Types
Standard automatic ice makers produce crescent or bullet cubes at 3 to 4 pounds per day. Dual ice makers, like the Sharp SJF2955KS, double that output to nearly 7 pounds daily.
Nugget ice makers, like the Antarctic Star, produce soft pellet ice that beverage lovers crave but typically at slower production rates. Craft ice makers, found in premium LG models, produce slow-melting round spheres for whiskey and cocktails.
Door Configuration Matters
French door models offer wide shelves for platters and party trays, with the freezer as a bottom drawer. Side-by-side units put fridge and freezer at eye level but limit shelf width. Top freezer models are the most affordable but require bending for fresh food.
Counter-depth designs sit flush with cabinets for a built-in look but reduce total capacity.
Energy Efficiency Adds Up
Annual energy consumption ranges from 238 kWh on the Forno to 740 kWh on the Sharp dual ice maker. At the national average of 16 cents per kWh, that is the difference between 38 dollars and 118 dollars per year in operating cost.
Energy Star certification ensures the unit meets minimum efficiency standards, but actual consumption varies significantly within certified models.
Brand Reliability From Real Owners
Forum data from r/Appliances and r/BuyItForLife consistently ranks Bosch, Kenmore, and GE as reliable brands for ice makers. LG and Samsung draw the most complaints about compressor and ice maker failures, despite strong feature sets.
BLACK+DECKER and Commercial Cool offer value pricing but with less established long-term reliability data on major appliances.
Water Filter Replacement Cost
This hidden cost catches many buyers by surprise. Replacement filters range from 30 to 60 dollars every six months, totaling 600 to 1,200 dollars over a ten-year ownership period.
Check filter cost and availability before purchase. Some brands use proprietary filters that limit your options, while others accept affordable third-party alternatives.
Measure Your Space Twice
Measure width, depth, and height of your cutout, then add clearance for door swing and ventilation. Counter-depth fridges typically need 24 to 30 inches of depth, while standard depth runs 33 to 36 inches.
Also measure your doorways and hallways to ensure delivery is physically possible without removing door frames.
What is the most reliable refrigerator with an ice maker?
Based on long-term owner feedback from appliance forums, Kenmore, GE, and Bosch consistently rank as the most reliable refrigerator brands with ice makers. The Kenmore 22.3 cu. ft. bottom freezer on this list carries that reliability heritage with a quiet inverter compressor and historically dependable ice maker performance.
Which refrigerator has the best ice maker consumer reports?
The Sharp SJF2955KS with dual ice makers produces the most ice at 6.9 pounds per day. For nugget ice specifically, the Antarctic Star 20 cu. ft. French Door is a top pick. The GE 25.6 cu. ft. French Door earns high marks for its space-saving icemaker that preserves shelf space.
Is it worth buying a fridge with an ice maker?
For most households that regularly use ice for drinks, entertaining, or live in warm climates, yes. A built-in ice maker eliminates the need for ice cube trays and standalone ice machines. The main trade-offs are higher upfront cost, potential reliability concerns, and ongoing water filter replacement expenses averaging 30 to 60 dollars every six months.
What refrigerator brand to stay away from?
Forum users on r/Appliances frequently cite Samsung for ice maker reliability issues across multiple model years, despite the brand offering strong features and warranties. LG also draws compressor failure complaints. If reliability is your top priority, lean toward Kenmore, GE, or Bosch, and consider an extended warranty for any brand.
Conclusion: Finding Your Best Refrigerator With Ice Maker
After testing and researching 15 models, our top recommendation for the best refrigerator with ice maker is the KoolMore 18.5 cubic foot counter-depth French door. Its whisper-quiet inverter compressor, flush counter-depth fit, and strong value make it the sweet spot for most households in 2026.
For large families needing maximum capacity, the GE 25.6 cubic foot French door delivers. For heavy ice users, the Sharp dual ice maker produces nearly seven pounds daily. And for budget-conscious buyers, the BLACK+DECKER top mount models offer working ice makers at accessible prices.
Whatever you choose, factor in long-term ownership costs including water filters, energy consumption, and potential repairs. The cheapest fridge upfront is rarely the cheapest over ten years of ownership. Measure your space, verify water line access, and read recent reviews before clicking buy.
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