KitchenAid KBSN742SBE Reviews & Ratings by Customers and Consumer Reports

Designed for households that prioritize long-term food preservation and a seamless built-in look, the KitchenAid KBSN742SBE is a premium 42-inch built-in side-by-side refrigerator aimed at serious home cooks, frequent entertainers, and buyers outfitting a “forever kitchen.” In day-to-day use, it’s best understood as a capacity-forward, temperature-stable platform that emphasizes consistent refrigeration performance and integrated aesthetics over flashy, short-lived gimmicks. A key strength of the KitchenAid KBSN742SBE is its built-in construction and tall, full-height storage approach. Side-by-side layouts excel at keeping frequently used items at eye level, and this format is especially practical for organized households that prefer clear zoning between fresh and frozen foods. The vertical freezer also makes it easier to see and access frozen items without the “stacking and forgetting” that can happen in bottom-freezer designs. From a performance standpoint, built-in refrigerators in this class are typically engineered for steadier temperature control than many freestanding models, which matters for produce longevity, dairy consistency, and reducing freezer burn over time. Expect a solid, composed operating character: not silent, but generally restrained in noise and vibration when properly installed and leveled—an important consideration in open-concept kitchens. Usability is another strong point. The shelving and bin system is designed for repeatable organization, and the overall fit-and-finish is what appliance specialists look for when evaluating durability cues: door action, gasket alignment, and interior component rigidity. These details translate into fewer day-to-day annoyances and better long-term sealing performance. Limitations are largely inherent to the category. A 42-inch built-in side-by-side requires precise cabinetry planning and professional installation; it may not suit buyers seeking a quick replacement for a standard-depth refrigerator. Side-by-side compartments can also be narrower than French-door designs, so wide platters or pizza boxes may require more planning. Finally, the built-in format prioritizes a flush look, which can reduce “oversized item” flexibility compared with some deeper freestanding units. Verdict: the KitchenAid KBSN742SBE is best for design-driven kitchens and high-use households—whether in the U.S. or Canada—where consistent cooling, organized access, and a true built-in presence matter most. Buyers who routinely store extra-wide trays or want maximum layout flexibility may prefer a different configuration.