Owner’s manual
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Is side by side better than a French door?
For the Maytag MSD2651KGB (a side-by-side), “better” depends on how you use your refrigerator: side-by-sides typically give you easier access to frozen foods and more door-bin storage, while French door models usually provide wider, more flexible fresh-food shelving for platters and large containers. See the MSD2651KGB owner's manual for storage features and setup tips.
| Feature | Side-by-side (like MSD2651KGB) | French door |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh-food space | Narrower shelves, good organization | Wider shelves, better for large trays |
| Freezer access | Eye-level access, less bending | Lower drawer, more bending |
| Door storage | Usually strong door-bin capacity | Good, but varies by model |
| Footprint | Often fits tighter kitchen aisles | Doors can need more swing space |
- You use the freezer daily and want items at eye level
- You prefer lots of door-bin storage for drinks and condiments
- Your kitchen has tighter clearance and you want narrower door swing
- You like a more “vertical” organization style (separate fresh and frozen columns)
- You store wide items often (pizza boxes, party platters, sheet pans)
- You want more customizable fresh-food shelving space
- You prefer a full-width deli drawer or larger crisper layouts (common on many French door designs)
Choosing the right layout reduces temperature swings and food waste because you open the door you need less often. With a side-by-side like the Maytag MSD2651KGB, you can also take advantage of adjustable door storage and compartments described in the MSD2651KGB owner's manual.
Last updated: February 2026
What is the best brand for a side-by-side refrigerator?
There is no single “best” brand for every kitchen; the best side-by-side refrigerator is the one that fits your priorities for reliability, ice and water features, and serviceability. For Maytag model MSD2651KGB, we recommend using the MSD2651KGB owner's manual to compare features and care requirements to other brands before you buy.
Side-by-sides vary most in dispenser design, temperature control layout, and long-term maintenance needs.
- Prioritize consistent cooling over extra features if reliability is your top goal
- Decide whether you truly need an external ice and water dispenser
- Check that replacement parts are readily available (ice maker, door gasket, water valve)
- Confirm the unit fits your opening and has proper airflow clearance
- Choose a finish you can maintain (stainless vs. painted)
Many side-by-side issues over time trace back to a few systems. When comparing brands, look at how each brand designs and supports these parts.
| System | What it affects | Common ownership pain point |
|---|---|---|
| Ice maker and dispenser | Ice production, crushed/cubed delivery | Jams, slow ice, dispenser wear |
| Sealed system and start components | Cooling performance | Hard starts, warm temps |
| Airflow (evaporator fan) | Even temps in fresh food and freezer | Noise, warm spots |
| Door sealing | Frost, condensation, efficiency | Leaks, sweating, icing |
If you want a side-by-side that tends to be simpler to live with long-term, models with fewer dispenser features usually have fewer moving parts to maintain.
Use this list to compare Maytag, GE, Frigidaire, KitchenAid, LG, Samsung, and others side-by-side.
- Door seal feel: gasket should contact evenly all the way around
- Dispenser operation: smooth paddle action, no sticking, consistent water flow
- Interior airflow: listen for steady fan operation, not rattling or scraping
- Cleaning requirements: avoid harsh cleaners that can damage finishes and gaskets
- Fit and ventilation: allow about 1/2 inch at the top and 1/2 inch behind for airflow (typical guidance for this style)
A side-by-side can run for years when it has proper clearance for airflow, doors that seal well, and ice and water components that are easy to service. Those factors usually matter more than the logo on the door.
Last updated: February 2026
How many cubic feet is a side-by-side refrigerator?
A standard side-by-side refrigerator is typically 21 to 25 cubic feet. The Maytag MSD2651KGB is 25.6 cu. ft. total capacity (about 15.8 cu. ft. fresh food plus 9.8 cu. ft. freezer). For the official spec listing, check the MSD2651KGB owner's manual.
Capacity is driven mostly by cabinet size and how much space is used by features like an in-door ice and water dispenser.
- Compact side-by-side: 18 to 20 cu. ft.
- Standard side-by-side: 21 to 25 cu. ft.
- Large side-by-side: 25 to 28 cu. ft.
- Features that reduce usable space: ice maker, dispenser chute, thick door bins
- Features that improve organization: adjustable shelves, slide-out bins
Cubic feet tells you storage volume; it does not guarantee the refrigerator will fit your opening with proper airflow.
| What you’re checking | What it tells you | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Total capacity (cu. ft.) | Overall storage volume | Helps you size for household needs |
| Fresh food vs. freezer split | How space is divided | Helps match how you store groceries |
| Cutout dimensions and clearance | Physical fit and ventilation | Prevents install issues and supports cooling |
Choosing the right cubic-foot size helps prevent overcrowding (which restricts airflow), improves temperature stability, and sets realistic expectations for space taken up by ice and water components.
Last updated: February 2026
