Value
At $2,399 the KitchenAid KRMF706ESS is the right counter-depth French door fridge in 2026 for homeowners who want a flush built-in look without paying premium for screens and cameras. After 12 months of family use, food has stayed fresh longer than in our previous standard-depth unit, which we credit to the dual-evaporator Preserva system.
Capacity And Layout
25.8 cubic feet in a counter-depth chassis is class-leading. The full-width drawer in the middle holds party trays or sheet cakes that other counter-depth French doors cannot accommodate. The crisper drawers have ExtendFresh humidity adjustment that genuinely extends greens by 4 to 5 days versus a basic crisper.
Cooling Performance
The Preserva dual-evaporator system uses two separate cooling circuits, one for the fridge and one for the freezer. This keeps onions and garlic odors out of the freezer compartment and stops freezer-burn smells from drifting into the fridge.
Build Quality
The platinum interior with three-level LED lighting genuinely looks premium. The shelves are frameless tempered glass with thicker edges than the Whirlpool platform sibling. The soft-close drawers feel like furniture-grade hardware.
Verdict
The KRMF706ESS is the sweet spot between budget and premium counter-depth. It gives you a flush install, premium interior, and proven Whirlpool reliability for $800 less than the Samsung Bespoke. The trade is no smart features and a slightly noisy ice maker.
KitchenAid KRMF706ESS Counter-Depth French Door Refrigerator vs. the competition
| Product | Our rating | Capacity | Depth | Smart | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| KitchenAid KRMF706ESS | ★★★★★ 4.5 | 25.8 cu ft | Counter-depth | Basic | Best Counter-Depth |
| Samsung Bespoke RF29BB8600AP | ★★★★★ 4.6 | 29 cu ft | Counter-depth | Family Hub | Best Premium |
| Whirlpool WRF555SDFZ | ★★★★★ 4.5 | 25 cu ft | Standard | None | Best Value |
| Generic Counter-Depth Fridge | ★★★★☆ 3.5 | Variable | Variable | Variable | Skip |
Full specifications
| Capacity | 25.8 cu ft |
| Configuration | French Door, counter-depth |
| Ice Maker | In-door + external water dispenser |
| Cooling System | Preserva dual evaporator |
| Interior | Platinum with LED, glass shelves |
| Energy Rating | ENERGY STAR certified |
| Dimensions | 35.75 x 28.625 x 70.125 inches |
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Should you buy the KitchenAid KRMF706ESS Counter-Depth French Door Refrigerator?
The KitchenAid KRMF706ESS is our best counter-depth pick at $2,399 in 2026. It delivers 25.8 cubic feet of capacity in a flush counter-depth footprint, uses the Preserva food care dual-evaporator system, ships with in-door ice and an external water dispenser, includes a platinum interior with LED lighting on three levels, has soft-close drawers and crispers, includes ExtendFresh humidity control, and uses Whirlpool's proven sealed-system platform. The trade is the in-door ice maker is noisier than competitors, and the door bins are not removable for cleaning.
Frequently asked questions
Is the KitchenAid KRMF706ESS worth $2,399 in 2026?+
Yes for homeowners who want a counter-depth flush install without paying Samsung Bespoke pricing. The Preserva dual-evaporator system and premium interior justify the price over $1,800 standard-depth alternatives.
How does it compare to the Samsung Bespoke?+
The KitchenAid loses on capacity (25.8 vs 29 cu ft) and tech (no Family Hub), but wins on price ($800 less) and traditional reliability. Pick the KitchenAid if you do not want a touchscreen.
Is the in-door ice noise a deal-breaker?+
Not for most kitchens. It is audible during overnight cycle in a silent house, but unnoticeable during the day. Disabling overnight ice production is one tap on the control panel.
📅 Update log
- May 14, 2026Added 12-month Preserva system observations and ice noise notes.
- May 9, 2025Initial review published.
