Integrated refrigerators blend seamlessly into your cabinetry, creating a high-end, custom look.
Unlike built-in professional models with exposed compressors, these refrigerators are designed to be completely hidden - making them indistinguishable from the surrounding cabinets.
But before you invest, there are important trade-offs to consider.
Integrated refrigerators often cost more while offering less storage space, and some models can be twice as expensive to install.
In this article, you'll discover the five best brands, their features, and any potential downsides.
Plus, with insights from our in-house installation team - who handle these refrigerators daily - you’ll get real, practical advice most reviews don’t cover.
By the end, you'll know exactly what to look for and how integrated models compare to other options.
This guide is completely unbiased. Our goal is to give you the best information so you can make a confident buying decision.
Let’s get started.
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If you're in the market for an integrated refrigerator, here are some of the best options for 2025:
Sub-Zero pioneered refrigeration, introducing its first integrated and built-in models nearly fifty years ago.
The original 27-inch-wide integrated refrigerator has since been discontinued and replaced with more commonly sized models.
Today, Sub-Zero continues to lead the industry with ongoing innovations. Let’s take a look at a few.
Vacuum-Sealed Doors
Sub-Zero features industry-leading vacuum-sealed doors, preventing air infiltration and keeping food fresh longer.
Magnetized Crisper Bins
The crisper drawers are magnetized, ensuring a tight seal that preserves produce freshness for longer.
Air Scrubber Technology
Inspired by NASA technology, Sub-Zero’s air purification system “scrubs” the air of ethylene gas and odors every 20 minutes, preventing food spoilage and cross-contamination.
This system helps keep food fresher, longer than most competitors.
Split Climate System
The Split Climate System sends separate airflow to the crispers and main compartment, maintaining a consistent, precise temperature within one degree.
Flexible Size Options
Sub-Zero offers a range of sizes and configurations, including:
Smart Functionality & Wi-Fi Connectivity
Allows you to adjust temperature remotely and receive alerts when:
(Though it’s worth noting that most other brands now offer similar Wi-Fi functionality.)
Food Preservation: Industry-Leading Performance
In a four-week comparison test against four other brands, Sub-Zero outperformed the competition, keeping food fresher for longer.
✔️Available in: 30-inch and 36-inch widths
❌Not available in: 42-inch or 48-inch sizes
✔️ Made in the U.S.
✔️Offers the most model options
✔️Features an internal water dispenser
✔️Best at filtering air and preserving food freshness
❌ No external ice makers
❌Not available in larger 42- or 48-inch sizes
❌ Drawers may make top shelves difficult to reach
❌No French door models
Read More: Is a Sub-Zero Refrigerator Worth the Money?
Thermador introduced a new lineup of integrated refrigerators last year, offering larger 42- and 48-inch sizes—a major shift in the upscale refrigeration market.
With stainless steel interiors, advanced cooling technology, and flexible storage features, Thermador’s integrated refrigerators are a strong competitor in the premium category.
Stainless Steel Interior
Stainless steel is the most hygienic surface.
The Thermador T48BT120NS features a stainless steel interior, preventing germs from proliferating like other surfaces and making it the standard for commercial kitchens.
Ethylene Filter for Food Preservation
Removes ethylene gases from spoiled foods to keep produce fresh longer and prevent cross-contamination.
Fun Fact: Sub-Zero has a similar ethylene scrubber (mentioned above), but it’s not included in their stainless steel Pro Series line.
ThermaFlex Convertible Refrigerator-Freezer
The top right drawer offers flexible temperature control, allowing you to switch between a refrigerator or freezer, with settings ranging from 0 to 37 degrees.
This versatility is great whether you prefer extra refrigerator space or need a freezer when necessary.
For example, I don’t freeze much - aside from things I tend to forget. When did I first put in those frozen strawberries? Or my daughter’s ice cream she suddenly doesn’t like anymore?
The ability to convert also comes in handy when entertaining. You can easily switch between storing a cake or keeping an ice cream cake frozen, depending on the occasion.
Dual Ice Makers with Easy-Access Ice Drawer
You're going to love this.
No more reaching into the freezer for ice - just pull out the elevated, easy-access ice drawer. Inside, you'll find two types of ice.
All models feature Diamond Ice, a thicker, slower-melting ice that enhances cocktails and fine liquors by preserving the flavor rather than diluting it.
If you opt for the 48-inch model, you'll also get a second option: regular ice.
Interior Water Dispenser
For added convenience, the 42- and 48-inch models feature a cold, filtered water dispenser located on the left-hand side.
Pro Tip: If you're planning a new kitchen, consider adding a filtered water tap next to your sink - you’ll use it more than you think.
LCD Controls & HomeConnect Wi-Fi
LCD screen displays all settings for intuitive temperature control.
HomeConnect app allows you to adjust temperature, monitor your fridge, and check filter status remotely.
Four Interior Cameras
The age of surveillance has enterred your refrigerator.
The 48-inch French door model includes four built-in cameras, allowing you to check your fridge contents remotely while grocery shopping.
You never have to buy an extra bottle of ketchup (or mustard) again.
Crisper Bins & Storage Flexibility
The crisper bins are solidly built to keep your food fresh longer - and they’re even an inch deeper than similar bins in SKS models, giving you extra storage flexibility.
Ultra-Quiet 39 dB Operation
Most twin-compressor refrigerators are quiet. However, Thermador sets the standard with a noiseless 39 dB setting.
That’s quieter than most dishwashers - an appliance designed to be quiet. (For reference, 44 decibels is the quietness standard. You can’t hear noise below 44.)
✔️ Available in: 42-inch and 48-inch widths
✔️Large 42- and 48-inch sizes available
✔️Stainless steel interior for better hygiene & cooling
✔️Convertible drawer for flexible storage (0°F to 37°F)
✔️Dual ice makers (Diamond Ice & Regular Ice in 48-inch model)
✔️Interior water dispenser for filtered, chilled water
✔️HomeConnect Wi-Fi & LCD touchscreen controls
✔️Built-in cameras for remote viewing
✔️Ultra-quiet 39 dB operation
❌ Very tall - top shelves may be difficult to reach
❌Limited adjustable shelving compared to competitors
❌Installation can be complex & costly
❌Made in Turkey (compared to Sub-Zero, which is made in the U.S.)
Miele is a high-quality brand best known for its dishwashers and premium laundry appliances, but its integrated refrigerators are gaining recognition for their strong food preservation features and sleek French door design.
A few years ago, I interviewed Miele USA’s CEO, Jan Heck, and told him directly:
"Miele isn’t known for its refrigerators."
His response?
"Wrong, Steve. Wrong."
He then explained Miele’s plan to introduce differentiated, high-end refrigeration, and today, their integrated models are a compelling option in the market.
Miele refrigerators are manufactured in the same plant as Thermador, but here’s what makes them unique:
If you prefer a traditional French door setup rather than Thermador’s double - drawer design, Miele is worth considering.
Bright & Even Lighting
One of my friends recently moved into a Boston condo with a Miele fridge, and the lighting immediately stood out.
With LED lights on both sides, it’s impressively bright - something you don’t always get in integrated models.
MasterCool System
Maintains optimal temperature and humidity to slow the ripening process and extend food freshness.
PerfectFresh Technology
Allows you to adjust humidity and temperature based on the type of produce you’re storing:
Dynacool & AirClean Filter
✔️Available in: 36-inch French door configuration
✔️Excellent lighting—well-lit interior with lights on both sides
✔️Humidity controls in the crisper for better produce preservation
✔️French door design—a traditional alternative to Thermador’s double drawers
❌ Fewer bin storage options compared to Thermador
❌ Standard ice only - no advanced ice-making features
Signature Kitchen Suite (SKS) offers a 48-inch integrated refrigerator designed for those who want a high-end, customizable cooling experience with flexible storage options.
It features a convertible drawer, premium stainless steel interior, and ultra-quiet operation, making it a strong contender in the integrated refrigeration space.
Convertible Drawer with Wide Temperature Range
SKS includes a convertible drawer that adjusts between -7°F to 41°F, allowing you to use it as extra refrigeration or freezer space based on your needs.
Ice Cube Drawer: Craft Ice for Premium Drinks
SKS offers Craft Ice, producing slow-melting round ice spheres that are ideal for cocktails and fine spirits.
Ultra-Quiet 39 dB Operation
Operating at just 39 dB, SKS refrigerators are virtually silent - one of the quietest models available.
Stainless Steel Interior
The stainless steel interior helps maintain cooler temperatures and provides a more hygienic, professional-grade finish compared to traditional plastic interiors.
Cameras & Touchscreen Controls
Built-in cameras let you check inside your fridge remotely. Touchscreen controls provide an intuitive way to adjust settings and manage temperature zones.
✔️Available in: 36-and 48-inch widths
❌ Not available in: 42-inch width
While SKS and Thermador share many features, there are key differences worth noting.
1. Adjustable Shelving
2. Temperature Flexibility in Convertible Drawers
3. Height Considerations
✔️Convertible drawer with an industry-leading temperature range (-7°F to 41°F)
✔️Craft Ice for slow-melting cocktail ice
✔️Fully adjustable shelving (no middle bump like Thermador)
✔️Premium stainless steel interior for better cooling & hygiene
✔️Built-in cameras & touchscreen controls
✔️Ultra-quiet 39 dB operation
❌No 42-inch size option (only available in 48 inches)
❌Height could still be an issue for some, though shorter than Thermador
❌Lacks some of the additional luxury features found in Thermador
SKS (Signature Kitchen Suite) claims its 30-inch column refrigerator, the SKSCR3001P, is the largest in the market, offering 18 cubic feet of storage - compared to Thermador’s 16.8 cubic feet.
Like Thermador, it features a fully stainless-steel interior and is Wi-Fi-enabled through LG’s ThinQ app for remote monitoring and temperature control.
SKS Cooling System: Unique Airflow Design
Internal Water Dispenser
Ultra-Quiet 39 dB Operation
Lift & Go Bins
SKS covers most of the popular sizes, but one key size is missing:
✔️Refrigerator widths available: 30-inch, 24-inch
✔️Freezer widths available: 18-inch, 24-inch, 30-inch
❌ Missing: 36-inch column refrigerator and freezer, which happens to be the most popular size on the market.
Despite this, SKS remains a strong competitor in the larger combined sizes of 42-inch, 48-inch, and 60-inch refrigerators.
✔️Largest 30-inch column refrigerator on the market (18 cu. ft.)
✔️Internal water dispenser for easy access to filtered water
✔️Ultra-quiet 39 dB operation
✔️Lift & Go bins for flexible storage
✔️Solid 3-year parts and labor warranty
❌No 36-inch column refrigerator or freezer option
❌Limited availability in some regions
Fisher & Paykel, a New Zealand-based appliance company now owned by Haier, is well-known for its narrow-width, counter-depth refrigerators.
Unlike most integrated brands that lean toward premium pricing, Fisher & Paykel offers a traditional 36-inch-wide, 72-inch-high integrated refrigerator for around $6,000 - making it a more affordable alternative without sacrificing aesthetics.
Fisher & Paykel recently introduced a new line of integrated refrigerators, featuring:
ActiveSmart Technology
Uses temperature sensors and humidity control to keep food fresher for longer.
Functions like a Nest thermostat, using microprocessors to adjust cooling based on your usage patterns.
Smart Touchscreen Controls
Provides an intuitive interface for easy temperature adjustments and settings resets.
One major drawback? Installing a custom panel on this unit is not easy.
Unlike other brands, the installation process is more complex and time-intensive - something to factor in if you’re planning a DIY project or hiring an installer.
✔️Available in: 36-inch width
❌ Not available in other sizes - limited to just 36 inches.
✔️More affordable than most integrated refrigerators ($6,000 range)
✔️Reliable performance
✔️ActiveSmart technology for food preservation
✔️Smart touchscreen for easy adjustments
❌Only available in one size (36 inches)
❌ Panel installation is more complicated than other brands
| Sub-Zero | Thermador | Miele | SKS | Fisher & Paykel | |
| Sealed Door | Vacuumed sealed | Soft close door | Soft close door | Soft close door | Soft close door |
| Push to Open Door | No | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Air Purifier | Yes | No | Active CleanAir Filter | No | No |
| Bins | Magnetic crispers | Customizable bins | Yes | Life & Go Bins | Removable Bins |
| Convertible Drawers | No | No | No | Yes | No |
| Spill-Safe Shelving | Yes | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Wi-Fi Connectivity | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Touchscreen Controls | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Temperature Management | Touch controls for precise temperature management | Yes with Proprietary Cool Air Flow technology | Yes with MasterCool | Yes with Precise Preservation | Yes with ActiveSmart technology |
Sealed Door
Push-to-Open Door
Air Purifier
Crisper & Door Bins
Nanotechnology Shelving
Wi-Fi Connectivity
Touchscreen Controls
Convertible Drawers
Specialty Ice
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Integrated refrigeration is a growing trend in upscale kitchens, and the good news is that you have plenty of options.
But which one is right for your kitchen?
Here’s a quick breakdown of the best options based on key features:
| Best For | Key Strengths | Potential Drawbacks | |
| Sub-Zero | Best for food preservation & luxury kitchens | Nanotechnology shelving, vacuum-sealed doors, air purification system | Expensive, no external ice maker |
| Thermador | Best for large households | Larger 42” & 48” sizes, convertible drawer, dual ice makers | Installation is complex, limited adjustable shelving |
| SKS (Signature Kitchen Suite) | Best for customization | Convertible drawer, Craft Ice, quiet operation | No 42” option, less brand recognition |
| Miele | Best for smart home integration | Wi-Fi enabled, humidity-controlled crispers, French door models | Fewer bin storage options, no specialty ice |
| Fisher & Paykel | Best for budget-conscious buyers | Most affordable integrated option ($6K range) | Only available in 36”, difficult panel installation |
Design, feel, and internal layout can make a big difference in how well a refrigerator works for your space and lifestyle.
Integrated refrigerators are generally reliable, but when they do need repairs, they can be difficult and expensive to fix.
Before you buy, check whether qualified service technicians are available in your area. A great refrigerator isn’t worth it if you can’t get it repaired when needed.
Based on our industry experience and customer feedback, here’s what you need to know before buying an integrated refrigerator.
Both built-in and integrated refrigerators are considered professional-grade and can accept panels. Both are also referred to as "shallow depth."
The main differences are in width and depth.
A built-in refrigerator has a door that protrudes past the cabinet, while an integrated refrigerator installs completely flush with the cabinetry.
Additionally, built-in units have their compressors mounted on top, whereas integrated models have compressors at the bottom.
Integrated refrigerator sizes range from 18, 24, 30, 36, 42, and 48 inches in width, while built-in professional refrigerators typically come in 30, 36, 42, and 48 inches.
The most popular size for both types is 36 inches.
Built-in refrigerators are deeper, as their doors extend past the cabinets, providing more cubic footage than a fully flush integrated refrigerator.
Built-in models are also more cost-effective per cubic foot than integrated units.
There are two styles of counter-depth refrigerators, ranging from 24 to 48 inches:
Professional refrigerators include advanced features designed to keep food fresher for longer.
An integrated refrigerator is designed to sit flush with your cabinetry, creating a seamless look when paired with panels.
Counter-depth can vary, but the body of an integrated refrigerator is typically 24 inches deep, plus the depth of the door.
This means that while integrated refrigerators are fully flush, counter-depth refrigerators still have doors that protrude past the cabinetry.
The cost of a professional built-in, integrated refrigerator, or column unit can range between $10,000 and $18,000, depending on the model and features.
KitchenAid only offers regular counter-depth refrigerators with paneling capabilities. However, its models feature a black trim around the door, which disrupts the seamless look.
If you're looking for a more budget-friendly integrated option, Fisher & Paykel is a better choice.
Integrated refrigerators come in a variety of styles to fit different kitchen layouts and storage needs.
One of the most popular integrated refrigerator styles is the column refrigerator, which refers to separate refrigerator and freezer units.
Some brands and salespeople may use the term "columns" to describe both individual units and paired fridge-freezer combos, so it's important to clarify when shopping.
You can purchase a column integrated refrigerator in several styles, including:
You will see non-flush built-in and counter-depth refrigerators from BlueStar, Viking, Sub-Zero, and True.
While the body of the fridge sits flush, the door protrudes past the cabinet to allow it to open. Additionally, these models often have a visible compressor on top.
By our definition, that does not qualify as an integrated refrigerator.
I once wrote an article with this title just to get people thinking.
Integrated refrigerators offer a sleek, stylish look - I have one myself.
However, they come with trade-offs.
Pro Tip: If you build your cabinets out to 27 inches, you can integrate any counter-depth or built-in refrigerator. You may have a small gap for the door to open, but this setup allows you to get a larger-capacity fridge for less money.
You might think installation is simple - just add panels and plug it in, right?
Think again.
Integrated refrigerators require precise installation.
Your contractor must:
If any of these elements are slightly off, you'll notice it immediately once the fridge is installed.
Installation is a four-hour job for a skilled finish carpenter.
At Yale, we have experienced installers in the field daily, allowing us to offer professional installation for just $99 in our area - ensuring the job is done right.
Choosing the right refrigerator depends on your priorities, budget, and kitchen design.
What do you think? Do you prefer the hidden elegance of an integrated refrigerator, or does the practicality of a built-in model make more sense for your kitchen?
Drop your thoughts in the comments below. We’d love to hear from you.
Download the Yale Counter-Depth Refrigerator Buying Guide with features, specs, and inside buying tips for all the major brands of regular, professional, and integrated counter depth refrigerators. Over 1 million people have read a Yale Guide.