13 Best Countertop Ice Makers In 2023: Reviews & Buying Guide
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You might be wondering how a countertop ice maker is a much-needed appliance in your kitchen when you have a fully-functioning fridge. But this machine provides considerable convenience, making it a worthy investment.
If you want to own one, here is a list of the best countertops ice makers, including a guide on choosing the perfect one for you.
Our Top Picks
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Most Advanced - GE Major Appliances OPAL01GEPKT Countertop Ice Maker• Creates 24 lbs. of ice per day |
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Best Soft Ice - Frigidaire EFIC189 Ice Maker • Makes 26 lbs. of ice per day |
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Most Quiet - hOmeLabs Chill Pill Countertop Ice Maker• Produces 26 lbs. of ice per day |
1. Igloo ICEB26RR Countertop Ice Maker - Best Design
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What Customer Have To Say
An Amazon shopper shared that he takes this ice maker camping along with a jug of water. When he sets up, he plugs it in, and within 30 minutes, he has ice. Then he puts the ice in a baggie and into the freezer. A different customer said that this is a perfect size and fits under her cabinets because it’s not too big and bulky like her previous one. It runs smoothly and quietly as well, which is a huge plus, and it also looks stylish.
Why We Think It’s Great
Add a touch of style to your appliances and start with this countertop ice maker. With its 3-quart capacity, it can produce nine ice pieces in just 7 minutes. The control panel is also easy to understand and illuminated with LED lights indicators, so it’s comfortable to use. Should you want to take a glimpse at the process, you can do so since it has a clear lid.
Who Should Buy It
This countertop ice maker has a retro red metallic look, perfect for adding glam in your kitchen, trailer, or anywhere else. It’s also a significant change from the other ice makers with monochrome colors.
2. KUPPET Ice Maker Machine for Countertop - Best Budget Option
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What Customer Have To Say
An Amazon patron remarked that this machine is a must-have if you have no access to tasty water for ice cubes. He poured in bottled water and had a container full of ice cubes. It takes some time, but it’s worth it. Another customer shared that she bought this to use in her camper on a three-week trip because she was tired of buying bags of ice. She suggested transferring the ice to a freezer because ice will melt faster in a bucket. Overall, she was satisfied with the performance because it yielded more than enough ice each day.
Why We Think It’s Great
Kuppet ice maker features a modern refrigeration technology that makes its compressor highly efficient and makes the machine work at only 38 decibels so your party conversations won’t be interrupted. It also gives alerts when the machine is full or empty, which helps maintain the machine.
Who Should Buy It
If you’re running out of space and want a quiet ice supplier, then the best countertop ice maker for you is Kuppet.
3. Frigidaire EFIC103 Countertop Ice Maker - Most Compact
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What Customer Have To Say
One Amazon patron shared that he bought this as a gift for his wife. She is always running out of ice, and the freezer is always in need of cleaning. This solved that quickly. For them, it is a lovely unit, runs quiet, looks good, and fits in the spot available. Another customer said that this fridge is very fast, and the ice cubes can be in different nice sizes, and she also likes the stainless steel exterior.
Why We Think It’s Great
No matter where you put this countertop ice maker, it will match the room’s design. In just 6 minutes, it can produce ice cubes enough for a beverage. You also get to choose between three sizes, so it’s beneficial when you’re filling your water bottles or making smoothies.
Who Should Buy It
If you prefer a countertop ice maker that is made from stainless steel rather than plastic, be sure to give Frigidaire EFIC103 a try!
4. GE Major Appliances OPAL01GEPKT Countertop Ice Maker - Most Advanced
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What Customer Have To Say
An Amazon customer remarked that this is the best countertop ice maker for those who love the small chewy ice. She was pleasantly surprised by how quiet the machine is. Overall, she would definitely recommend it. Another customer said that he gets so many compliments about this ice maker. The noise level isn’t bad, just a slight hum. He's never run out of ice whenever he has parties, and everyone gets to enjoy cold drinks.
Why We Think It’s Great
Out of all the ice makers on this list, the GE Opal has the most distinctive look. For one, you don’t have to transfer the ice as often because it can hold 3 lbs of ice at a time, making it act as an ice bucket. As opposed to traditional countertop ice makers, this one makes ice by scraping the ice bits off the chilled stainless steel cylinder's interior, resulting in chewable ice nuggets.
Who Should Buy It
If you want a smart countertop ice maker that you can control through your phone, and if you enjoy chewing soft ice, look no further because you have found the GE Opal ice maker.
5. Prime Home Countertop Ice Machine - Best for Parties
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What Customer Have To Say
An Amazon customer commented that this countertop ice machine is easy to use and makes ice really fast. She uses it every day, and she added that it would be great for parties and holidays. Another shopper remarked that this is an attractive and functional piece of equipment. It doesn't take long to get a decent amount of ice. Overall, it works well and looks nice.
Why We Think It’s Great
Say goodbye to buying ice in bags because Prime Home ice machine allows you to make ice at the comfort of your home. Energy-efficient, quick and quiet, this is an excellent machine for cold drinks and cocktails. One of its smart features is that it automatically shuts off when the basket is full to prevent overflow.
Who Should Buy It
For cold drinks on the go, you need a trusty countertop ice maker like this one to make every party complete and refreshing.
6. IKICH Countertop Ice Maker - Easiest to Clean
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What Customer Have To Say
A customer said that this countertop ice maker is amazing. She has lived in apartments for years, and this machine is so convenient and very easy to use. For her, it’s been worth every penny. A separate customer remarked that this is great and really cranks it out. She shared that she can't fit a fridge with an ice maker in my kitchen, so this is perfect since she can place it on her countertop.
Why We Think It’s Great
With an efficient compressor, this ice maker is amazon in refrigeration and lessens the noise when in use. It also recycles the melted water, so there is no waste. It is also built with advanced infrared sensor technology that automatically stops the machine when it’s full and alerts you when it is empty.
Who Should Buy It
Among the best countertop ice makers, IKICH saves you the time of installation. You only have to fill it with water, plug it in, and then let it do its thing. If you want to spare yourself from hassle, try IKICH ice maker.
7. Terra Hiker Ice Maker for Countertop - Best Insulation
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What Customer Have To Say
One Amazon customer commented that she liked the Terra Hiker ice maker’s quick speed, design, and controls. She also appreciated that the surface finish would not stain like some metallic finishes after a couple of months, especially around the ventilation areas. Another shopper said that this machine requires an easy setup, and in less than 10 minutes, it had made ice, which made him happy.
Why We Think It’s Great
With this ice machine, you never have to use ice with an odd smell and taste from your refrigerator, and it keeps ice coming with its quick production. It also uses less power than other ice makers. When it’s time to clean it, pull the plug to drain the water and enable the self-cleaning function.
Who Should Buy It
This countertop ice maker can make a great gift to anyone who enjoys munching on ice or drinking cold beverages. So, if you know someone, treat them with this machine!
8. FRIGIDAIRE EFIC452-SS Extra Large Countertop Ice Maker - Best Clear Ice
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What Customer Have To Say
An Amazon shopper commented that this machine has no moving parts, and the water comes out through a tube that cascades down over a metal ice tray then the ice is formed. He placed this machine in his RV. Overall, he would definitely recommend this machine. Another customer said that this makes ice the same way as an industrial ice machine does. The device has a LED display and a transparent window, which is great for monitoring.
Why We Think It’s Great
Not every ice maker can produce clear ice cubes, but this one does. It can make 24 ice cubes in less than 15 minutes, enough to accommodate every guest with cold drinks. It is also not complicated to use, so that anyone can use this anytime.
Who Should Buy It
Frigidaire is undoubtedly one of the best countertop ice makers, and this one looks like it could be great for restaurants and bars, and it sure can, especially that you can make clear ice cubes, perfect for cocktails and liquors.
9. hOmeLabs Chill Pill Countertop Ice Maker - Most Quiet
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What Customer Have To Say
An Amazon shopper commented that this countertop ice maker is incredible because it’s easy to use, there’s no assembly required, and no water hookup is needed. She’s pleased with her purchase and loves that they have a ton of ice cubes available at any time. Another customer said that the size is the best because it does not take up much room when placing it in your desired spot. The ice stays cold, and when munching on some, the ice is soft, but it does not melt very quickly.
Why We Think It’s Great
Never wait for ice again because the hOmeLabs countertop ice maker is designed to make ice quickly to enjoy cold refreshments all the time. It is also streamlined to avoid the build-ups and over-freezing, which are the common problems that standard ice makers experience. As the name suggests, this is the chill pill you need for a hot day.
Who Should Buy It
If you want an ice machine that works fast and quietly, then you’ll appreciate hOmelabs. The control panel is also easy to use, so you won’t have a hard time operating it.
10. AGLUCKY Countertop Ice Maker Machine - Best Speed
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What Customer Have To Say
One customer commented that in less than 10 minutes, the machine already created small ice pieces. She has been using this ice maker almost every day since the end of September 2020, and so far, there are no issues. Meanwhile, a different shopper said that this ice maker exceeded what he expected. It makes ice quickly of generous size, and in little time, he had a full bin.
Why We Think It’s Great
This countertop ice maker has a quick production, making nine ice pieces in 6-8 minutes. With a quiet and rapid cooling system, it saves energy and keeps the machine cool, even when it’s in use. It also lets you pick between two sizes, perfect for drinks, blending smoothies, and food.
Who Should Buy It
If you want your appliances to be safe, quick, and efficient, then AGLUCKY is one of the best countertop ice makers you can buy.
11. BOSALY Countertop Ice Maker Machine - Easiest to Use
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What Customer Have To Say
One customer said that she and her family were glad to have chosen this countertop ice maker because it is fantastic and works fast. The size of this ice maker is small enough to fit at the extra space in their countertop. Another shopper remarked that this ice maker machine has been very useful in her home bar area. It has also been beneficial and perfect for using outside by our pool. It is very compact and can be used for many different occasions.
Why We Think It’s Great
This ice machine looks good on a countertop, but it also makes for a portable ice maker since it has a handle. It can make nine pieces of ice in just 8-10 minutes. It also features a powerful compressor and 22g R600a refrigerant, making it operate with less noise.
Who Should Buy It
The BOSALY countertop ice maker can be a terrific gift idea for a family member or friend who loves to drink cold beverages and eat ice.
12. Frigidaire EFIC189 Countertop Ice Maker - Best Soft Ice
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What Customer Have To Say
A shopper said that she’s thrilled with this ice maker because it does not make too much noise, it’s very compact, and it fits right on her store county to blend shakes for her customers. A separate customer commented that this is very easy and straightforward to use. The texture of the ice is like a snow cone when you chew on it. It is also not bulky and makes little to no noise while making ice.
Why We Think It’s Great
Frigidaire offers some of the best countertop ice makers, and this one is no exception. You can witness the whole ice3 making process thanks to its big transparent window. It also allows you to choose between small ice for water bottles or large ice for standard drinks in a glass.
Who Should Buy It
Practical and straightforward, this ice maker suits those who don’t want any bother with their appliances and just want to have ice quickly.
13. NutriChef Countertop Digital Ice Cube Maker - Best Control Panel
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What Customer Have To Say
One Amazon customer commented that this ice maker exceeded her expectations. One of her favorite things about it is the drain in the back. She also loves that it makes three sizes of ice. On the other hand, another customer remarked that this is very good, more powerful than another he had that only worked six months before dying. This one accommodates the whole family with ice all day long plus guests at night.
Why We Think It’s Great
The digital control panel makes this ice maker unique from most standard ones. Apart from this, it also holds a large amount of ice, so your guests don’t have to wait very long for a new batch to be made. The stainless steel exterior also makes it easier to clean up.
Who Should Buy It
Get this countertop ice maker if you want to have a differing feature like the control panel. This is also a fantastic choice if you prefer stainless steel over plastic.
Factors To Consider Before Buying A Countertop Ice Maker
Here are several things that one needs to ponder before buying the best countertop ice maker.
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Price
Before you consider buying a countertop ice maker, you must make up a specific budget. Getting an ice maker with the highest quality might be tempting, but the deal won’t be worth it if it’ll leave you penniless. Dedicate time to examine a product so you’d know what you are paying for.
Logically, recent models advance in quality and performance, but their prices are higher. However, there are still many options for affordable ice makers on the market, and most are great deals.
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Size
Some countertop ice makers are bigger and smaller than others, so know what you’re using the machine for and where you’re planning to put it. Make sure it’s big or small enough to fit your space.
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Speed
Look for the length of the ice maker’s production cycle to see its speed. Usually, small-sized countertop ice makers make ice cubes faster than the big ones. It only takes them about 5 minutes to complete a batch.
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Structural Integrity of Ice
Different ice machines create different types of ice, shape-wise. Most countertops ice makers produce cylindrical, bullet-shaped ice. It is, however, hollow inside, and that means they melt quicker.
The advantage of this is that they are easier to munch on and crush when making smoothies or frozen treats. However, the melted water from the ice can affect your drink’s taste or flavor by diluting it. Luckily, some models produce square-shaped and clear ice that melts slower for cocktails and liquors. The downside is that their production tends to take a little longer.
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Ease of Cleaning
Some countertop ice makers have a self-cleaning function. This is an excellent feature for your ice maker if you want less hassle and less maintenance. Speaking of cleanliness, an ice maker with a mesh filter is also a must if you wish to clean ice.
Another useful feature for easy cleaning is the drain plug, which can be positioned either at the side, back, or bottom of the machine. Most users find the bottom plug most convenient because there is less tilting required.
Countertop Ice Maker FAQs
1. How do countertop ice makers work?
Countertop ice makers work like how fridges make ice. The water is pumped either into a tube or an ice tray and then frozen. After the freezing process is done, the compressor’s excess heat is responsible for releasing the ice into the bin. Operating it is also relatively easy.
- First, plug the machine in a 115v outlet (can vary).
- Next, take the tray and fill it with water.
- Place the tray back and close it. Some ice machines can be filled with water directly in the bin, and the basket is placed inside afterward.
- Finally, turn the ice maker on and choose what size you want your ice to be. In just a few minutes, your batch of ice will be ready.
2. How to clean countertop ice maker?
If your countertop ice maker has a self-cleaning feature, cleaning it won’t be a problem; just follow what the manual says about the features since every model differs. If your ice maker doesn’t have that feature or if you just prefer cleaning the machine manually, this is how you do it:
- Before doing anything to the machine, you need to unplug it.
- Remove the excess water by pulling the plug of the drain. If there’s no drain, you have to lift the ice machine and pour the water out.
- Detach parts that can be detached, such as water filters, scoop, ice tray, etc.
- Pour warm water inside the ice maker. Get a soft cloth and a mild detergent; use these to clean the insides. If you see stains that are hard to remove, you can use a baking powder and water mixture to remove them. To clean the water filter, you can use a small toothbrush.
- Wash everything with water after cleaning it with the detergent. Then, drain or pour out the water. Pat it dry with a cloth.
- Once the parts have entirely dried, set it up again.
3. Do ice makers keep ice frozen?
Ice makers work amazingly with ice production, but you need to remember that they are not freezers, so they don’t have the power to keep the ice frozen inside. It will take them just a couple of minutes until they start melting. If you want to keep the ice, you can transfer them to a bag and place them in your freezer.
4. Can you make anything else inside the ice maker?
Technically, yes, but it is discouraged. According to Stacy (a reviews expert at Best Reviews List), you may be tempted to try making frozen juices or soda, but you should know that this will cause damage to the machine. It can be more challenging to clean, and residue may compromise the taste of ice because it can leave molds. It can also shorten the machine’s lifespan.
5. Do I need to do something before using the ice maker?
After you unbox the countertop ice maker and read the manuals, it is best to make a couple of ice batches that will be discarded right after. Once you have finished doing this, the next batch will be safe to use. This will ensure that no possible dust or debris will be mixed with your ice.
Conclusion
If you think about it, ice is not just for drinks. You can use it for preserving food like fish and meat, make shakes and smoothies, and even use it for first aid purposes.
If you’re sold on countertop ice makers, we highly recommend the GE Major Appliances OPAL01GEPKT Nugget Ice Machine. It has a distinctive look compared to standard ice makers, and it makes numerous ice nuggets in a short period, perfect for parties or everyday use.
If you prefer something classic, easy to use, and ideal for personal purposes, the best countertop ice maker would be the hOmeLabs Chill Pill Countertop, Ice Maker.
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