If you’ve ever hosted a party, filled a cooler for a road trip, or just tried to make an iced coffee on a scorching afternoon, you know one universal truth — you never have enough ice when you actually need it. Sure, your freezer’s ice tray exists, but between the slow freezing time, the constant refilling, and that weird “freezer taste,” it’s hardly ideal. That’s where a good ice maker earns its keep.
Today’s countertop and portable ice makers can churn out fresh cubes in minutes, keep up with family demands, and save you from those last-minute runs to the convenience store for a bag of overpriced ice. The tricky part? There are dozens of models claiming to be “the best,” each with different cube shapes, production speeds, noise levels, and price tags.
In this guide, we cut through the noise and focus on the machines that actually deliver — whether you want crystal-clear cubes for cocktails, chewable nuggets for sodas, or bullet ice for everyday use. By the end, you’ll know exactly which ice maker fits your kitchen, your budget, and your ice obsession.
Best Ice Makers
Kismile Nugget Ice Makers Countertop
The Kismile Nugget Ice Maker is a compact countertop unit designed for making chewable nugget ice. In regular use, it starts producing ice within about seven minutes and then delivers roughly one scoop every five minutes. Over a 24-hour period, it can make up to 35 pounds, which is enough for most households and small gatherings. It has a perforated ice bin that allows any melting water to drain back into the reservoir to be turned into new ice. This keeps the ice fresh and avoids the buildup of slushy leftovers. The self-cleaning mode, activated by holding the power button for five seconds, makes maintenance straightforward.
Noise is low compared to many ice makers. The fan produces a quiet hum that blends into the background. LED indicators for “Add Water” and “Ice Full” are easy to read, and the machine pauses automatically when it needs attention. The process is simple enough that you can leave it running during a party without constant checking.
In real-world use, the main strengths are the quick first batch, the steady pace of production, the fresh ice recycling feature, the easy cleaning process, and the compact size that fits most counters. It is especially good for people who enjoy nugget ice in drinks, smoothies, or cocktails and want a constant supply at home without trips to the store.
The trade-offs are modest. The pace may be slow for very large gatherings unless you start making ice ahead of time. It also needs periodic cleaning and descaling to keep performance consistent. Nugget ice melts faster in warm environments, so transferring to a freezer is best if you need it stored for hours.
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EUHOMY Countertop Ice Maker
The EUHOMY Countertop Ice Maker is a compact, portable unit that produces bullet-shaped ice cubes. In day-to-day use, the first batch is ready in about six minutes, and it can make up to 26 pounds in 24 hours if kept running. The built-in handle and light weight make it easy to move between the kitchen, an RV, or even a patio table during a gathering. The bullet ice is smooth, does not clump easily, and works well for cold drinks or chewing.
Operation is straightforward. You fill the 1.2-liter water tank, press the power button, and let it run. Infrared sensors detect when the basket is full or when the water level is low, prompting you with simple indicator lights. The self-cleaning function is activated by holding the power button for a few seconds, which helps keep the basin fresh with minimal effort. Noise is low, similar to a small freezer, with the loudest sound occurring when the ice drops into the basket.
One of the main strengths is convenience. It does not require a water line, it is easy to clean, and the small footprint fits most counters. Ice quality is consistent, and unlike store-bought bags, there is no odd taste.
There are some trade-offs. The ice basket holds about 1.3 pounds at a time, so you will need to empty it into a freezer if you want a larger supply. For someone looking to fill multiple coolers or make bags of ice, this unit will feel too small. It also needs occasional descaling to maintain speed and taste quality.
It is well suited to individuals, couples, or small households who want a steady supply for daily drinks. It is less ideal for large events or heavy ice use without pre-making batches in advance. Overall, it offers reliable performance in a portable size for everyday needs.
Newair Portable Ice Maker
The Newair Portable Ice Maker is designed for people who want a steady supply of fresh ice without relying on a built-in refrigerator unit. In everyday use, it produces the first batch in about 10 minutes and can make up to 50 pounds in a day, depending on the ice size you choose. Three sizes are available, so you can match cube size to drinks, from smaller cubes for quick cooling to larger ones that melt more slowly.
The setup is simple. Fill the water reservoir, select the cube size, and press start. The control panel is clear, and the display shows time remaining for each batch. The removable ice basket and scoop make serving easy. In testing, smaller cube cycles took around 13 minutes, while the largest cubes required closer to 19 minutes but produced noticeably fuller, denser ice. The basket holds enough for several drinks before needing to be emptied into a freezer for storage.
Noise is low for a machine of this capacity. Most of the sound comes when cubes drop into the basket, and the fan runs quietly in the background. The self-cleaning mode keeps the interior fresh with minimal effort, and the timer function is useful if you want ice ready at a set time.
One of the main strengths is production volume. It can keep up with moderate to heavy household use or small events without constant monitoring. However, like most countertop ice makers, it is not designed to store ice for hours without melting, so transferring to a freezer is necessary if you want to stockpile. It also takes counter space and needs regular cleaning to maintain performance.
This model is well suited for families, frequent entertainers, or anyone who wants flexibility in ice size. It is less ideal for occasional users with limited counter space or those who only need ice in small amounts.
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ecozy Smart Nugget Ice Maker
The ecozy Smart Nugget Ice Maker is a countertop unit designed for people who want nugget-style ice with some added tech convenience. It produces soft, chewable ice similar to what you find at certain fast-food chains, and can make up to 44 lbs in 24 hours. The insulated glass front helps slow melting, and the removable bin makes transferring ice simple. It runs relatively quietly for an ice maker and produces ice quickly once running.
One standout feature is the built-in TDS (total dissolved solids) meter, which helps you monitor water quality for clearer, better-tasting ice. Paired with its Wi-Fi app, you can track TDS, control the unit remotely, schedule start/stop times, and receive alerts (like when water quality is too high in minerals). For those who like to automate routines, the scheduling options can also save on electricity.
Real-world use is straightforward: fill the 1.8 L tank with purified water, press a button, and ice starts forming. Maintenance is simplified with a self-cleaning mode. However, to get the best ice and protect the machine, you’ll need to stick to purified or bottled water, which may be inconvenient for some. The footprint is also larger than basic bullet ice makers, so counter space is a consideration.
This ice maker suits households that regularly use nugget ice, want control from anywhere, and value consistent quality. It may be overkill for occasional users who are fine with standard freezer ice trays or simpler machines without smart features. For daily nugget ice fans, though, it’s a strong option.
GoveeLife Smart Ice Maker Countertop
The GoveeLife Smart Ice Maker produces up to 26 pounds of bullet-shaped ice cubes per day, with nine cubes ready in about six minutes. The 2-liter water tank means it can run for several hours before needing a refill, though the basket will need to be emptied every couple of hours to prevent melting. Ice quality is consistent, and having the choice of different cube sizes adds flexibility for drinks or chewing.
One of its main advantages is the smart functionality. Through the app, you can start or stop the machine, adjust settings, schedule production, and receive alerts when the basket is full or water is low. This is useful if you are preparing for guests or want fresh ice ready when you get home. Voice control with Alexa or Google Assistant is also supported. The magnetic scoop holder is a small but practical touch that keeps it clean and within reach.
Noise levels are moderate at 45–50 dB. You will notice it running in a quiet room, but it is not disruptive. The 10-minute self-cleaning mode simplifies maintenance, helping prevent off-tastes in the ice.
The main trade-offs are that it does not store ice for long periods without melting and requires manual filling. It also takes counter space, so smaller kitchens may find placement challenging.
This model is well suited for people who use ice daily, like having smart control, and want the option to plan ahead. It is less ideal for occasional users or those needing large storage capacity without transferring ice to a freezer. Overall, it offers steady production, useful automation, and convenient maintenance for regular ice users.
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EUHOMY Nugget Ice Maker Countertop
The EUHOMY Nugget Ice Maker is designed for people who enjoy chewable “Sonic-style” nugget ice for drinks, smoothies, or even snacking. In daily use, it produces ice quickly, with the first batch ready in about 6–8 minutes and up to 34 lbs in a day. The texture is soft enough to chew comfortably while still cooling drinks well. The compact size and carry handle make it easy to move between the kitchen, patio, or even an RV.
Operation is straightforward. There is a single main button for ice making and cleaning. When the basket is full, an “ICE FULL” light comes on, and when water runs low, there is an “ADD WATER” alert. The self-cleaning cycle is helpful for keeping the ice fresh, and the removable top makes manual cleaning easier. Noise levels are low compared to many bullet-ice machines, which can be a plus in a quiet home or office.
There are some small trade-offs. The 1.8 lb ice basket fills fairly quickly, so you need to empty it often if you’re hosting a group. Like most countertop units, the ice slowly melts in the basket if not transferred to a freezer. It also works best with filtered water to avoid mineral buildup over time.
This machine is best suited for households or small gatherings where nugget ice is a preferred style. It is less ideal for those needing large storage capacity or ice that lasts long without melting. Overall, it delivers good performance with manageable maintenance needs.
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ecozy Nugget Ice Maker Countertop
The ecozy Nugget Ice Maker Countertop is designed for people who enjoy chewable nugget ice rather than standard freezer cubes. It produces soft, pellet-shaped ice that works well for cold drinks, iced coffee, smoothies, or simply as a snack. In normal use, it starts producing ice in about 10 minutes and can make up to 33 lbs per day, which is enough for families or small gatherings.
Setup is simple. The unit needs to stand upright for a couple of hours before first use, and running an initial cleaning cycle is recommended. Using bottled or filtered water helps maintain ice quality and reduces mineral buildup. The included ice bags and scoop make storing extra ice straightforward.
During operation, the noise level is noticeable but not disruptive. The machine does get warm and vents hot air from the sides, so it needs adequate clearance. While not heavy, it is bulkier than smaller bullet ice makers, though the handle makes it portable enough for RV trips or outdoor events.
Cleaning is easy thanks to the self-cleaning mode. For deeper cleaning, a water and vinegar mix works well, and the drain plug allows quick emptying. The lid can be removed to wipe internal channels.
This ice maker is ideal for frequent ice users, nugget ice fans, and households that entertain often. It may not be necessary for those who only use ice occasionally or are fine with regular freezer cubes. With proper setup and care, it delivers consistent, good-quality nugget ice for everyday use.
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Antarctic Star Nugget Countertop Ice Maker
The Antarctic Star Nugget Countertop Ice Maker is a compact machine designed for people who prefer soft, chewable nugget ice over hard freezer cubes. In everyday use, it begins producing ice within about 8 to 10 minutes and can steadily fill the included basket, making it suitable for small households, RV trips, or casual gatherings. The ice is smaller and softer than standard cubes, which makes it pleasant for chewing and effective at cooling drinks quickly.
Setup is straightforward. The unit should stand upright for at least two hours before use to let the refrigerant settle. Water is poured directly into the reservoir, and the removable basket makes it easy to transfer ice. Noise during operation is minimal for an ice maker, and the handle adds portability, though the machine still requires stable placement and space for side ventilation.
Cleaning is relatively simple. There is a drain plug for removing water, and the manual suggests periodic cleaning with a diluted bleach or vinegar solution. The scoop has a built-in storage slot, which helps keep accessories from being misplaced.
In terms of limitations, the capacity is best for light to moderate use. It will not keep up with heavy demand at large parties unless ice is transferred and stored ahead of time. Also, nugget ice melts faster than dense cubes, so storage in a freezer may be necessary if you want to keep batches for later.
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GE Profile Opal 2.0 XL with 1 Gallon Tank
The GE Profile Opal 2.0 XL with 1 Gallon Tank is a nugget ice maker designed for people who value a constant supply of soft, chewable ice without the hassle of filling trays or running to the store. In real-world use, it begins producing ice in about 10 minutes and can make just over a pound per hour, storing up to three pounds in the bin. The side tank reduces refilling frequency, making it practical for gatherings or heavy daily use.
One of its strongest points is convenience. It alerts you when water is low, integrates with a mobile app for scheduling, and includes a magnetic scoop holder. The control panel also reminds you when it is time to sanitize or descale, which helps maintain ice quality and prolong the unit’s life. The nugget ice it produces is consistent and pleasant for both drinks and ice packs.
There are some trade-offs. The unit is expensive compared with basic countertop ice makers, and it takes up a noticeable amount of counter space. When actively making ice, it can be loud enough to be heard across the room, though not to a disruptive degree. Maintenance is required, with weekly sanitizing and monthly descaling recommended. While these steps are not difficult, they do take time and planning.
This machine is best suited for households or offices that regularly use nugget ice and appreciate its texture for beverages. It can also appeal to hosts who entertain often. Those who simply want standard cubes to chill drinks, or have limited space and budget, may find more basic models a better fit. For its target user, the Opal 2.0 XL offers steady output, thoughtful design features, and a dependable supply of high-quality nugget ice.
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Frigidaire 26 Lbs per Day Ice Making Machine
The Frigidaire 26 Lbs per Day Ice Making Machine is a countertop unit that produces bullet-shaped ice cubes in two sizes. In everyday use, it works reliably and can keep a steady supply going for small households or casual gatherings. The process is straightforward: add water to the reservoir, choose a cube size, and let it run. It can make a basket of ice in about an hour and a half, and the included scoop and removable bin make it easy to transfer ice to a freezer for storage.
The reservoir holds roughly 70 ounces of water, which is enough for several cycles before refilling. It is important to note that the unit needs about eight inches of clearance for ventilation, although in many kitchens it may end up closer to surrounding appliances. Heat exhausts from one side, while air intake comes from the other, so good airflow helps it run efficiently.
Ice production is consistent, though the cubes are hollow and melt faster than solid freezer cubes. The “full” sensor may stop production before the basket is packed tight, so topping it off might require removing ice and restarting the cycle. The machine is not silent while operating, but the noise level is similar to other portable ice makers.
This model is well suited for people without a built-in ice maker, for secondary ice needs in garages or RVs, or for hosting. Those with limited counter space, or who rarely use ice, might find it less necessary. For regular users, it offers dependable output and simple operation.
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Igloo Automatic Self-Cleaning Portable Electric Countertop Ice Maker
The Igloo Automatic Self-Cleaning Portable Ice Maker is a compact, countertop-friendly unit designed for people who want a steady supply of fresh ice without relying on store-bought bags. In everyday use, it delivers on that promise. With a 2-quart water tank and the ability to produce up to 26 pounds of ice in 24 hours, it’s more than enough for daily drinks, small gatherings, or camping trips with access to power. The option to choose between small or large bullet-shaped cubes is a nice touch, and the self-cleaning cycle makes routine maintenance straightforward.
In practice, the machine starts producing its first batch in about 7–8 minutes, though it works best if you give it a few cycles to build a reserve in the removable basket. The carry handle and lightweight design make it easy to move around compared to heavier models. Noise levels are moderate — a soft hum while running — and most users will get used to it quickly.
A few trade-offs are worth noting. Like most portable ice makers, it does not keep ice frozen indefinitely; if left sitting, cubes will slowly melt back into the reservoir and be remade. The basket holds about 1.25 pounds, so for larger events you’ll need to transfer ice to a freezer or cooler. Also, as with any appliance that runs frequently, buying an extended warranty is a smart move for long-term peace of mind.
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COWSAR Ice Maker Countertop
The COWSAR Ice Maker is built for anyone who needs a steady supply of fresh ice without waiting for a fridge freezer to catch up. In regular use, it produces ice quickly — about 8 bullet-shaped cubes in 6 minutes — and can make up to 26.5 pounds in a day if you keep refilling the water. This is enough for daily household use or small get-togethers.
The compact size and carry handle make it easy to move between kitchen, patio, or RV. It runs with a steady fan-like hum, which most people will only notice in a quiet room. Using filtered water improves both taste and clarity. The self-cleaning function is simple to run and worth using monthly to keep the machine fresh.
There are a few small trade-offs. The ice is slightly wet when it drops, so transferring it to a tray or towel before freezing helps avoid clumping. The storage basket is small, and the ice will start to melt if left for a couple of hours, so you’ll need to move it to a freezer for longer storage. The scoop provided is also small, which makes serving directly from the basket less convenient.
This model is best suited for households, campers, or offices that need quick, fresh ice in small batches. It is less ideal for large parties where a bigger storage bin would be necessary. For its size, speed, and ease of use, the COWSAR is a practical option for keeping drinks cold without relying on store-bought bags.
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AGLUCKY Ice Makers Countertop
The AGLUCKY Ice Maker is a compact, portable unit that fits easily on most kitchen counters or in small spaces like RVs and offices. It produces ice quickly, with each cycle taking about 6 to 8 minutes for 9 bullet-shaped cubes, and can make up to 26.5 pounds per day if refilled regularly. Using cold, filtered water helps the cubes come out cleaner and better tasting.
Operation is simple. Fill the 1.2L tank, press start, and wait for the first drop. There’s no beep when ice is ready, but you can hear the cubes fall. Indicator lights signal when the basket is full or the machine needs water. The unit is quiet enough for everyday use, with only a mild fan sound.
The ice is stored in an insulated basket but not kept frozen. For longer storage, you’ll need to transfer it to a freezer. This isn’t unusual for machines in this price and size range, as adding a cooling motor would increase cost and bulk. The ice can be made in two sizes, with smaller cubes chilling drinks faster and larger ones lasting longer.
The self-cleaning function is a useful addition, reducing maintenance to a simple button press.
This model is best for people who need small to medium amounts of fresh ice on demand—home use, small gatherings, camping, or RV trips. It’s less ideal if you need to store large batches of ice for long periods. For quick ice in a small footprint, it does the job well without overcomplication.
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Luma Comfort Clear Ice Cube Maker
The Luma Comfort Clear Ice Cube Maker is designed for those who want clear, restaurant-style ice at home without installing a full built-in ice maker. In real-world use, it delivers on its promise to produce clear cubes quickly and consistently, making up to 28 pounds per day. The cubes are solid and melt slowly, which works well for high-quality drinks or for keeping food and coolers cold during events, fishing trips, or processing game.
The machine is straightforward to use. Setup is simple: fill the water reservoir, turn it on, and it begins producing ice within a short time. The process is continuous, and as ice melts in the bin, the water is recycled to make new cubes.
The main limitation is that the storage bin is not refrigerated. Ice begins to melt once it drops into the bin, so this unit works best when you plan to transfer ice to a freezer soon after making it. The bin holds only a few pounds at a time, so to reach the full daily capacity, you’ll need to run it in batches and store the ice elsewhere. This design keeps the machine more compact and portable, but it means it is not suited for holding ice long-term.
It produces some fan and mechanical noise, but not enough to be disruptive in most kitchens. Its size may make it less ideal for very small countertops.
This ice maker is best for people who need a steady supply of clear ice for gatherings, drinks, or food storage and who can store the ice in a freezer. It is less suited to those wanting a unit that doubles as an ice dispenser or keeps ice cold all day without attention.
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Silonn Countertop Ice Maker
The Silonn Countertop Ice Maker is a compact unit that produces a steady supply of ice for home or small office use. It can make 9 cubes in about 6 minutes, with a daily capacity of up to 26 pounds. The machine offers two cube sizes, which is useful for different drinks, though the hollow bullet-style cubes melt faster than solid tray ice.
The controls are straightforward, with indicator lights for adding water, a full ice basket, ice-making status, and self-cleaning mode. The “Add Water” and “Ice Full” functions work reliably, making it easy to run the unit without constant checking. The 1.8-liter water tank reduces the need for frequent refilling.
In daily use, ice must be transferred to a freezer if it is not used immediately, as the storage area is not refrigerated. The ice bin holds a reasonable amount, but to build up a large supply, you will need to bag and freeze batches. The unit is not silent; when producing ice, it gives off a steady hum and brief mechanical sounds during the drop cycle. For most kitchens this is not intrusive, but in a very quiet space it may be noticeable.
Regular cleaning is important. Over time, mineral deposits or residue can build up, so monthly cleaning with white vinegar helps maintain ice quality and machine performance.
This model suits households, offices, or small gatherings where ice is needed on demand and space is limited. It may be less suitable for those wanting long-term cold storage or solid cubes that last much longer in drinks.
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HealSmart Ice Maker for Countertop
The HealSmart Ice Maker for Countertop is a compact, portable machine that produces 9 bullet-shaped cubes in roughly 6 to 8 minutes, with a maximum output of about 26 pounds per day. It is small enough to fit on most counters and light enough to move between rooms, making it practical for kitchens, offices, or small gatherings.
In daily use, it is straightforward to operate. You fill the 1.2-liter tank, press a button, and the machine handles the rest. The infrared sensor stops production when the basket is full or the water runs out, so you do not have to keep checking it. The self-cleaning function is a time saver, and using filtered water can reduce mineral buildup. Noise is minimal at around 35 decibels, about the level of a quiet conversation.
There are trade-offs. The storage bin is not refrigerated, so ice will slowly melt if left inside and may need to be transferred to a freezer. The water reservoir lasts about an hour before refilling is needed during continuous use. Bullet-style cubes also melt faster than solid cubes in drinks.
This model suits users who want quick, on-demand ice in a compact format. It may be less ideal for those needing large amounts of long-lasting ice for extended events.
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