Thermador vs. Viking Integrated Refrigerators (Reviews/Ratings/Prices)

Integrated refrigerators have become a popular installation in custom kitchens, enabling the fridge to be flush with the surrounding cabinetry for a cleaner look. Integrated differs from regular and pro counter depths, because the door and handles protrude in those units.

Thermador and Viking both offer models in this category, but use a very different approach.

Regular counter depth refrigerator from the side	Professional counter depth refrigerator at Yale

Thermador

Thermador is a part of the B/S/H group, the third largest appliance company in the world. They are probably best known for cooking products, but have one of the best selections for integrated refrigeration in the industry. Flexibility is the key to the Thermador collection, called the Freedom line.

Their refrigerator/freezer models include 30 and 36 inch single door bottom freezer units and 36 inch French door models. All are available in stainless steel with either the Masterpiece or Professional style handles, or unfinished and ready for your custom panel supplied by the cabinet maker. You can also purchase two different stainless door panels, either a flat or chiseled (beveled) edge from the manufacturer.

Thermador also has separate all refrigerator and all freezer units. You can pair these together for more customized refrigeration based on your needs. The all freezer models are available in 18, 24, and 30 inch widths. The 18 and 24 inch units have either internal or external ice and water dispensers. The 30 inch model is internal only. The all refrigerator models are available in 24 and 30 inch widths. All of these models are unfinished and require custom panels or the stainless accessories from Thermador.

Thermador is flexible. You can accomplish a flush installation with either the stainless or custom panel, and you have the “freedom” to install these units anywhere, either side by side or completely separate. These units will work in virtually any kitchen design. Thermador is also one of our 5 most reliable brands, and have some great package promotions with free dishwashers and ventilation systems.

Viking

Viking was founded by Fred Carl and was a pioneer in the residential “professional” range in the 80’s. Viking was a privately owned company until recently, acquired by the Middleby company, who specializes in commercial cooking and refrigeration equipment.

Viking refrigeration can also be installed flush in either stainless or custom panel configurations, but will not have as many options as the Thermador. The refrigerator/freezer units are available in 30 and 36 inch widths, there is no French door option. Their larger 42 and 48 inch side by side models can also be installed flush as a single unit.

If you were considering separate fridge and freezer units the widths are limited to 30 or 36 inches. Viking products are all covered by a 3 year warranty, and are made in Mississippi, they will occasionally run some promotions including one similar to the Thermador dishwasher and ventilation promotion.

Both Thermador and Viking are reputable brands, but in this case I think the Thermador is a better choice. They have more options in the popular 36 inch size have far more choices in the all fridge/all freezer units for both models. The design possibilities are endless and can fit any kitchen design imaginable.

I also like the reliability of Thermador as well. Viking will be more competitive in the future with Middleby's production expertise.

Related Articles

• 4 Best Integrated Refrigerators
• Best Counter Depth Refrigerators

Additional Resources

Download the Yale Counter Depth Buying Guide with features, specs and inside buying tips between regular, professional and integrated refrigerators. Well over 45,000 people have downloaded a Yale Guide.