When choosing an undercounter refrigerator, there are many configurations available ranging from wine units to beverage centers, drawers and all refrigerators.
They are also available in various sizes from 24 wide to 15 inches wide, in stainless or ready to accept custom panels.
Undercounter units add a sense of ambiance as well as functionality to any space. They are great for large families, or households that like to entertain. There are a lot of ways to integrate them into the kitchen, bar areas or in even outdoor kitchens.
True and Perlick represent two of the top under cabinet refrigerators in the market. In many ways both companies are mirror images of each other. However, I think there are big differences.
True Refrigerators
True, is a family owned and operation business that has been around for quite some time. They have a solid reputation for building long lasting, well built pieces. The brand was founded in 1945 in O’Fallon, MO. Their strongest division has always been their commercial line; however they have recently expanded their line for residential use. Any time you’ve walked into a grocery store, a bar, or pulled a soda out of the freezer, True was probably the brand.
The True brand advertises a 20 year life expectancy. All of their units can be stacked and have a lock. The inside is all stainless and is rated for both inside and outside use. Because of this construction, they can also confidently offer a 3 year warranty covering all parts and labor AND a 6 year warranty on the sealed system, including BOTH parts and labor.
A unique feature that a lot of people like, is on their glass door units, there are three light options; Blue, White & Amber.
Also True is the most versatile. You can convert a beverage center to a wine storage unit or a refrigerator by simply buying extra shelves. They are all also completely flush with standard depth cabinets and will look seamless with cabinets.
True Refrigerator TBC-24-R-SG-A - $2999
- Industry exclusive: Stainless Steel interior and Exterior
- Zero- clearance hinging allows for integrated installation
- Patented TriLumina LED lighting. Amber, white or blue
- True Prevision Controls, with steel touch technology and readout
- 2 Adjustable/removable stainless encapsulated glass shelves
- TrueFlex shelving system allows convertibility to a refrigerator or wine unit
- Standard Lock
- UL rated for outdoor use
- Balanced, forced-air refrigeration, keeps consistent temperature
Perlick Refrigerators
Perlick is also a family owned business. They have been around since 1917 and are located in Milwaukee, WI. Their product line will also feature high quality indoor and outdoor under units, ranging from under counter refrigeration, wine units, freezers, drawers as well as icemakers and beer dispensers.
Perlick’s craftsman ship is exceptional. They are solidly built and can also be found commercially. Their commercial line up is their strongest category. Because of their solid design and exceptional reputation, Perlick is often the resource for other manufacturers like Viking, for sourcing product Perlick’s commercial line is completely custom, making them unique.
In all of Perlick’s units, a unique feature is that they use the same commercial parts for the residential units. They have an exclusive commercial grade 1,000 BTU variable speed compressor. Compared to other competition, this is one reason why they are known for running very quiet and at less risk to have issues over time. Another exclusive, is their doors can be converted to wood overlay from stainless steel. Perlick will offer a 3 year warranty.
Perlick Refrigerator HP24BS-3R - $2999
- Front-vented, RAPIDcool forced-air refrigeration system
- Exclusive commercial grade 1,000 btu variable speed compressor
- Low-E, UV-coated glass provides industry leading insulation and protection
- Optional Locks ( factory installed)
- Full extension wine shelves and pull out shelf
- Rated for both food and beverage storage
- Temperature range on Beverage Center 30-42 F.
True vs. Perlick Under Counter Refrigerators
Both of these brands are excellent and are really dedicated to providing the best for under counter food and beverage preservation. What I like about the True, is the versatility. If you buy a beverage center, and then later decide to change it to a wine unit, you can. All of their stainless units come with locks, and are indoor and outdoor rated.
I like the compressor of the Perlick better, but the overall construction of True is best in class (and the lights are really cool).
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Additional Resources
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