Long gone are the days when you had to fetch ice from the Antarctic. Didn’t you know that?
Yes! This is absolutely true, no matter how unbelievable it appears. Ice was carried from the colder areas to the hotter climates through ships and carriages.
But, does it sound like a familiar situation to you?
Are you still buying ice bags from grocery stores and carrying them home quite often? Don’t you think you are pacing behind times?
Go and get that countertop ice maker because they are a real thing now! It is not going to cost you a lot. It is not going to take up much space in your kitchen. But it is going to get you unlimited ice.
There can be another reason too. Are you an RV guy? Or maybe you love camping? You need ice on the go. A portable ice maker is going to help you a long way (and by that, I mean literally “a long way”) along the way!
You got me right! Countertop and portable ice makers are the same thing. You can place them in your kitchen or carry them around with you. They will produce ice anywhere as long as you have a power supply.
Wait… What? Were you already thinking of buying one? Okay.. so here is everything you need to consider BEFORE you buy one.
Our Best Pick
From all the portable ice makers we tried and tested for you, here is the one we liked the best.
When it comes to ice makers, Euhomy is a brand you can trust. And among all the ice makers, Euhomy Countertop Ice Maker has got the best design and features to offer you.
This countertop ice maker has everything you can wish for. It makes ice with speed and quality. The design is on point and the variety of colors it has to offer is amazing. And that is not all, with all the amazing features it has, it is not expensive at all.
Read our list below with a lot of amazing ice makers and make sure to check the details on this one too.
Comparison of 11 Best Rated Portable Ice Makers
If you are in a hurry then below we have compared our top picks of these countertop ice makers that are also reviewed in the later section below.
Select any two Ice Makers from the dropdown option below in the table to compare.
| Best Portable Ice Makers | VS | |||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Igloo ICEB26RR Ice Maker | 2. Frigidaire EFIC103 – AMZ – SC Ice Maker | |||||||||||||||||||
| Product | 
| 
| ||||||||||||||||||
| Ice Type | Bullet Ice | Bullet Ice | ||||||||||||||||||
| Production Rate | 26 Pounds | 26 Pounds | ||||||||||||||||||
| Storage Capacity | 2.2 Pounds | 2.2 Pounds | ||||||||||||||||||
| Available Colors | Red | Red, Black, Blue, Silver | ||||||||||||||||||
| Cleaning Method | Manual | Automatic | ||||||||||||||||||
| Weight | 21.5 Pounds | 19 Pounds | ||||||||||||||||||
| Size | 17.25x 12.2x 14.7 Inches | 12x 15x 34.8 Inches | ||||||||||||||||||
| Material | Plastic | Stainless Steel and Plastic | ||||||||||||||||||
| Consumers Ratings | 4.3/5 | 4.3/5 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Best For | Small Home Kitchen | Being Most Quiet | ||||||||||||||||||
| Not For | Auto Cleaning | A Small Space | ||||||||||||||||||
| Amazon | Check on Amazon | Check on Amazon | ||||||||||||||||||
| Ebay | Check on Ebay | Check on Ebay | ||||||||||||||||||
| Full Review | Jump to Full Review | Jump to Full Review | ||||||||||||||||||
#1 Pick
Euhomy Countertop Ice Maker is the #1 Best Portable Countertop Ice Maker in our list.
Consumer Guide to Choose a Good Portable – Countertop Ice Maker
When you need a dress, all you need to see is its look and whether or not it fits you. But this is not true for kitchen appliances or any appliances in that case.
You need to consider a couple of more things before you make a final choice. And that’s where our buying guide is going to help you.
Here is everything you need to know before you buy a portable ice maker.
Production Rate
You need an ice maker because you need some extra ice. Right? Then you need to choose the one that fulfills your requirement for ice.
On average, the countertop ice makers make 20 to 35 pounds of ice a day. You need to make an estimate of your requirement and then choose the one which is best for you.
Storage Capacity
You cannot store a lot of ice inside your ice maker because an ice maker is not a freezer. The ice in the storage bucket melts if you don’t use it unless you put some extra effort to shift it from the ice maker to your freezer till the time you need it.
Most countertop ice makers can store around 2 to 3 lbs of ice in the bucket. You can select from a lesser capacity to a higher capacity range according to your needs.
Ice Type
We live in a time when you cannot only have ice being made inside your kitchen but there is also a variety to choose from. Sonic or nugget ice, cube ice, crescent ice, gourmet ice, and bullet ice just to name a few.
Unlike the undercounter ice makers, the variety in the countertop ice makers is a bit limited. Most of them produce bullet ice with the help of metallic pistons installed in them. But you can find other fancy options too.
So you need to decide if you are going with the regular bullet ice or if you want that easy-to-chew nugget ice.
Cleaning
If you have a machine in your home, you need to maintain it too. Plain common sense…huh?
And, cleaning happens to be the most important step to maintaining your appliances.
In order to make cleaning easier, some portable ice makers come with an automated cleaning system. For the others, you have to go through some manual steps.
Are you ready to make some extra effort to clean your ice maker? Or you are from the lazy clan, just like us, who prefer to have their things done automatically? Whichever group you belong to, you are going to find many choices in our list to select from.
Noise Level
Almost all machines produce noise. Some of them make a bearable noise and others become an annoyance in themselves.
You need to consider how much noise your ice maker is making before you go for one. Well… No one wants to wake up in the middle of the night because of a thundering ice maker working in the kitchen.
Aesthetic Side
There is a wide range of portable ice makers in the market to choose from. It does not matter much if you are buying one for camping or boating but if it is for your kitchen the one that sits well in the color scheme of your kitchen is always better.
The options in design and colors are limitless. All you need to do is to explore. And, to make things easier, you can start exploring from our list below.
Cost
Lastly, you need to consider your budget. If you are on a tight budget, you may have to compromise upon the fancy options (like a timer) some ice makers have but you will surely get something that makes ice.
But, you can enjoy it all if you have good money to spend.
11 Best Portable – Countertop Ice Makers (Reviews & Reports)
Now that you know what specifications you need in your ice maker, here is a list to consider. We have chosen the best ice makers available in the market with a wide range of specifications they offer. You can choose according to your budget and needs.
So let us get started.
1. Igloo ICEB26RR Automatic Portable Ice Maker
The first ice maker on our list is this eye-catching model from Igloo that comes in a beautiful red color. It has got a lot of features that can make you go for it. So let us start with the specs table.
| Color | Red |
| Size | 17.25″D x 12.25″W x 14.75″H |
| Production Rate | 26 Pounds a Day |
| Weight | 21.5 Pounds |
| Capacity | Up to 2 Pounds |
| Material | Plastic |
Design
A little different from the usual black or stainless steel silver colors, this model is coming in red. This makes it a big hit to buy if you have a red color scheme in your kitchen. But, even if not, a little color blocking goes a long way to brighten things up. Doesn’t it?
In addition to that beautiful color, it has got a transparent lid that allows you to peek in and check for the ice in the storage bucket.
Talking about the size, this thing is not going to take up a lot of space on your counter or, if you are using it as a portable unit, in your car.
This countertop ice maker is also lightweight which makes it easy to carry around so if you are looking for camping or RVing, you can certainly go for it.
Ice Type
Like most portable ice makers, this one makes bullet ice. The ice maker is pretty quick in its work as it produces 9 ice bullets in less than 10 minutes.
Ice Production
Once you have filled the water tank, it will produce 26 pounds of ice in 24 hours. And how much water is it going to take to fill that tank you might ask? Only three quartz. Yes! Because we know portable ice makers don’t waste water.
Pro Tip: If you look closely at the bottom of the water tank, you will find a teeny tiny filter in there. It is going to clog up even if the tiniest particle is stuck in there. You better keep it clean to avoid any inconvenience.
If you look at the capacity, this ice maker can store up to two pounds of ice. But you may need to do some manual work here as our unit was giving the signal of “full capacity” when the bucket was only half full. It is just a detection problem.
Disperse the ice in the bucket and you are good to go. If you don’t, the ice maker is going to shut Off and won’t start until you have taken the ice out of the bucket, or if it melts on its own.
Noise Level
This ice maker is a bit moderate when it comes to noise levels. It does produce noise like most machines but it is not so loud as to the level of annoyance. The only real noise you can hear from it is when it drops that beautifully frozen ice into the bucket.
But, it is merely common sense, the ice will clink when it drops. Is there a choice for it?
Extra Features
This countertop ice maker comes with some fancy features.
- The LED-lit control panel makes it beautiful as well as easy to control.
- A red light blinks in the unit when it needs to be refilled with water or if the storage bucket is full. That sure is a great feature to get reminded of.
- The ice maker also allows you to choose the size of the ice cubes. You can change the settings to make them smaller or bigger as you want them.
Pros
- Aesthetically Pleasing
- Good Production Rate
- Allows to Change the Size of Ice
Cons
- A Manual Arrangement of the Ice is Required
- No Automatic Cleaning Option
Consumers Report
This portable ice maker is one of the most loved models you will find in the market. People are happy with the production rate and the ice quality. The only problem some customers are facing is because of the wrong indication of “capacity full” it gives. You need to keep an eye on that if you want to keep it working.
Other than that, the customers have a love-hate relationship with the blinking lights that ask for attention. You can decide for yourself if you love them or hate them.
Overall, it has secured a 4.3 out of 5 stars rating from thousands of its consumers.
Our Verdict
If you are looking for an ice maker that produces a good amount of ice at a reasonable price, this is a good option for you. It will sit on your countertop and fulfill your need for ice with a little bit of help from you. But, if you are not willing to do any manual work, you may look for another option. Our list is going to help you for sure.
We give this ice maker 8 out of 10 stars on our scale.
2. Frigidaire EFIC103-AMZ-SC Countertop Ice Maker
The next on our list is going to give you a lot of choices. Because this particular model is coming in four different colors. You can choose from black, blue, silver, and red. And… this is just the beginning of what you are going to like in this ice maker.
So, let’s dive in.
| Color | Red, Black, Blue, Silver |
| Size | 12 x 15 x 34.8 inches |
| Production Rate | 26 Pounds a Day |
| Weight | 19 Pounds |
| Capacity | 2.2 lbs. |
| Material | Stainless Steel and Plastic |
Design
The best thing we liked about this countertop unit is the variety it offers in its looks along with the good service it is providing. No matter what dominant color you have in your kitchen, this unit will fit in it… well, at least this is what we hope for.
But, before that, you need to double-check the size of this unit because it is not as small as you might think. It may, or may not sit on your countertop, under your above cabinets.
Pro tip: Do you have a measuring tape? Do you know how it works? Go ahead and see if it does fit on your counter!
Talking about the looks, this one too has a transparent lid on it so you can easily peek in to check what’s going inside. The metallic outside makes it even more decent.
The digital control panel on the front of the machine is not only adding to its looks but also gives you an easy to operate system.
Ice Type
Like any regular portable ice maker, this one too makes bullet ice. It has got 9 metallic pistons that provide you with fresh ice every 6 minutes.
Production and Capacity
Once you have filled the water tank of this ice maker, it will be enough to make 26 pounds of ice in a day. This production rate is pretty good for a small family.
It can also store around 3 pounds of ice in its storage basket.
Pro tip: If you are not going to use that stored ice immediately, you can always fill it in a few bags and shift it to your freezer. It is going to melt in the basket if not used, but if you have stored it properly you can make use of it later when you need some extra ice cubes. Or, you can just plug out your unit, save power, and enjoy the ice stored in your freezer.
Noise Level
This countertop ice maker is one of the quietest units you will find. You can only hear it if you are standing quite close to it. The only sound it makes is when it drops ice in the storage bucket and then it refills with water. But that takes only 30 seconds and it is quiet again.
Extra Features
Are you still waiting for some fancy features this unit has to offer? You will not be disappointed. Because:
- This ice maker has an automated cleaning programmer. You have to press the power button for a few seconds and it will enter into self cleaning mode.
- You can change the size of your ice bullets as you like them.
Pros
- Good Production Rate
- Good Capacity
- Automatic Cleaning Option
- Almost No Noise
Cons
- Fairly Large. May Not Fit on Your Counter.
Consumers Report
This portable ice maker has a huge number of satisfied customers. It is well made and produces a good amount of ice. It is also one of those machines that are pretty silent, so the consumers are not annoyed because of its noise.
The few customers who were not satisfied complained about the size of this unit. It didn’t fit in the space they allocated it. And for others, it did not last as long as they wished it to.
Still, it has earned 4.3 out of 5 star ratings from the thousands of consumers who used it.
Our Verdict
To us, this ice maker looks like a fairly valuable addition to your kitchen if you are always running short of ice at your home. The production rate of this unit is amazing. The features it is providing at a reasonable price are great.
So, if it does fit on your countertop, or if you have plans to place it somewhere else, don’t hesitate to buy it. But if you are a bit short on space in your kitchen, we can help you with other options. See, there are plenty on our list.
Overall, we give it an 8 out of 10 stars on our scale.
3. Newair Portable Ice Maker
This one is not your teeny tiny, regular countertop ice maker, enough for a small family. Instead, this compact thing is going to produce a lot of ice and still sit well on your countertop. Amazing, isn’t it?
But, this is not all. It has got a lot of hidden features yet coming your way.
Do you have a big family? Or do you need an ice maker for your office? Stay with us and read further.
| Color | White, Stainless Steel Silver, Red |
| Size | 16.88″D x 14″W x 16.75″H |
| Weight | 37.6 Pounds |
| Production Rate | 50 lbs a day |
| Cleaning Method | Automatic |
| Ice Type | Bullet Ice |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
Design
This portable ice maker is designed so compactly that it can produce tons of ice while sitting right on your countertop.
It has got a decent stainless steel body and it comes in a variety of colors. Yes, you can choose from red, white, and stainless steel silver as per your liking.
A small window on the lid allows you to peek through and adds to this unit’s beauty.
This ice maker is not as small as some of the other countertop ice makers but considering the amount of ice it is supposed to produce, this is exactly what you can expect from it. You better take your measuring tape out before you make a purchase.
Here we need to add a little more detail. This tabletop ice maker has an LCD control panel, not the regular, modern LED panel. And… that may not be a very desirable thing to have for you. The backlight of the control panel switches Off and it becomes quite difficult to see the buttons in sunlight or in the darkness too.
Pro tip: Please be careful while you handle this ice maker because the buttons on the control panel are not actual buttons you can push down. They are more like touch screens. You can change the settings merely by the slightest, unintended touch.
Ice Type
This unit is also designed to make bullet ice. But, unlike most of the regular portable ice makers, this one has got 12 metallic pistons installed in it. And that means more ice in less time. This ice maker is capable of giving you a fresh batch of ice every 10 minutes.
Ice Production
When we said that this ice maker is capable of making tons of ice, we meant the amazing production rate. It can produce 50 lbs of ice per day. That is as much as a small under counter ice maker makes. But you are getting that much ice without the hassle of installing an undercounter ice maker.
And not only that, you can also take it to an outdoor party if you have to, and this unit is not going to disappoint you. It will be enough to provide unlimited ice to a group of people on any summer day.
Noise Level
Now you must be thinking that if this ice maker produces a lot of ice, it must be producing a lot of noise too. Then let us tell you, this is not true at all.
The only sound you are going to hear from it is when it drops ice in the storage basket. You have to forgive it for that. Because, well… Do you have a choice?
Extra Features
This portable ice maker is determined not to disappoint you anywhere. So here is what it has to offer other than the regular feature of making ice.
- This ice maker has a timer that you can set to 18 hours. This means you can set it to turn On or Off by itself at any chosen hour during the 18 hours time span.
- It has also got a self cleaning option to save you the hassle of doing it manually.
- You can custom make your ice in three different sizes just by the push of a button.
Pros
- An Amazing Production Rate
- Self Cleaning Option
- A Timer
- Three Sizes in Ice
Cons
- A bit Heavy to Carry Around
Consumers Report
This tabletop ice maker has a lot to offer and the services it provides have not failed to satisfy its customers. It has won the hearts of many people, mainly because of its capacity to make a lot of ice.
The users who have complained about it are unhappy because their units died quite soon after the purchase. But, those complaints are few and far between. Perhaps, you can buy one and pray for a stroke of better luck? Because more than 90% of consumers are thoroughly satisfied with this product.
Overall, it has 4.3 out of 5 stars ratings from the thousands of consumers who used it.
Our Verdict
If you are always in need of a lot of ice but cannot afford the hassle of an under counter ice maker, this unit is just right for you. Not everyone has the space in their home to install a huge under counter ice maker. This one is here to rescue you.
This portable ice maker does have its flaws as we mentioned above, but it is a bit too rare to have it all in one plate. If you can forgive it for its fragile control panel, there is no better option for you.
We give it an 8.5 out of 10 on our scale.
4. Euhomy Countertop Ice Maker
If you want to see a tabletop ice maker that is the most loved by its users, look at this one closely. It has got all you can wish for in an ice maker. From its looks to the services, it is not going to disappoint you one bit.
Let us see what is the secret behind all the love it has won.
| Color | White, Black, Silver, Blue, Red |
| Size | 12.59 x 9.64 x 12.59 inches |
| Production Rate | 26 Pounds a day |
| Material | Plastic |
| Ice Type | Bullet Ice |
| Cleaning Method | Automatic |
Design
Let us start with the colors it has to offer. Yes, there is a lot of variety. You can choose from white, black, stainless steel silver, red, and blue. Five colors to choose from! We are already fans and only the design of this beautiful unit is going to convert you too.
The height of this ice maker is just right to sit easily on your countertop. When out of use, you can simply pick it up and pack it away in one of your cabinets. It is not going to take up a lot of space anywhere.
A window on the top lid allows you to see the inside activity. Trust us, it is a mesmerizing process to watch in itself. Your kids can enjoy it for a couple of days at least.
An led control panel on the front of the unit makes you the boss to operate everything easily.
Ice Type
This ice maker has 9 metallic pistons installed in it that produce a fresh batch of ice in less than 7 minutes. These nine bullets are enough to cool your glass of any liquid.
Pro tip: Do you know that all nugget ice makers are way more expensive than regular ice makers? Yes, but here we are going to tell you a trick. This ice maker offers you to make ice in 2 different sizes.
We found that if you set this machine to make smaller ice bullets, it makes them a lot softer rather than smaller. So you can actually use this machine to make easily chewable ice (which is the whole point of nugget ice) without spending a lot of money on a nugget ice maker.
Are you intrigued? Didn’t we tell you you will be converted?
Ice Production
This beautiful little thing produces 26 pounds of ice every day and it is quite quick in making fresh batches.
If you are not using all the ice at once, you can always fill it in some extra bags or a basket and store it in your freezer. Because if you don’t, it is going to melt in that storage basket and the water will be recycled to use more ice.
Noise Level
This one is quite moderate on that part too. You can hardly hear it in the background of a conversation but it makes itself heard in complete silence. Nothing to worry about though, you can expect that much from a machine in working order.
Extra Features
We are going to mention quite a few. So let us start counting.
- It offers two sizes to make ice bullets and this part we have already discussed in detail above.
- It has got a self cleaning mode so you don’t have to go through that ordeal manually.
- When the storage bucket of this ice maker is full, it sends a signal through infrared. A pretty modern thing to have in your ice maker.
Pro tip: Make sure nothing comes in front of the infrared beam. If it is blocked with some ice, the ray will be broken and the ice maker will shut down, considering it to be filled.
Pros
- Good Production Rate
- Auto Cleaning Function
- Available in a Variety of Colors
Cons
- A Bit Difficult to Clean the Inner Parts
Consumers Report
This portable ice maker has the highest rate of satisfied customers. It is beautiful in looks and the services it is providing are great. People are enjoying unlimited ice because of this unit in their homes and camps and the unit seems never tired of what it is doing.
The only complaint you can see about it is its difficulty to reach parts. It does auto clean itself but… Some parts need extra care and they are almost impossible to reach. But the funny part is: this ice maker is no different from the rest in its mechanism, all portable ice makers are made the same way.
The thousands of customers who have used this tabletop ice maker gave it a 4.5 out of 5 star ratings.
Our Verdict
We find this ice maker the best option for you if you do not need an extra large amount of ice produced daily. It is enough for a decent amount of ice and it is a reliable product in terms of its service.
As far as the cleaning thing is concerned, unfortunately, there is not a single tabletop ice maker that you can open up and reassemble after going through your cleaning process, except the rear panel.
Pro Tips to clean an ice maker:
- Using a clean toothbrush or a soft silicon brush can help to get those hard to reach areas.
- Use an ice maker cleaner prescribed by the manufacturer to keep your unit clean.
- A 1.1 ratio of water and vinegar is also remarkably helpful to get rid of mold, slime, or mineral buildup in your ice maker.
- Always use filtered water in your ice maker to avoid mineral buildup.
- Depending on how much you use your ice maker, try to clean it every 3 to 6 months.
- Read here in detail on how you can thoroughly clean your ice maker and increase its lifespan.
Regardless of the difficulty in cleaning, it is a valuable product to have in your home or office. After all, nothing worth having comes easy.
On our scale, this countertop ice maker has earned 9 out 10 stars.
5. Frigidaire EFIC452-SSBLACK XL Ice Maker
Here comes an ice maker different from the regular bullet ice makers. In case you are not a fan of the bullet ice (although there is nothing to dislike about that too), this one on our list makes cube ice. It is always a good idea to be a little different from the rest. Isn’t it?
Let us see what else it has got to be on the good side of things.
| Color | Black, Stainless Steel, Red |
| Material | Metal and Plastic |
| Ice Type | Cube Ice |
| Size | 11.3 × 14.8″ × 14.1″ |
| Production Rate | 40 Pounds a Day |
| Weight | 25.7 Pounds |
Design
Available in three different colors to choose from, this portable ice maker is a delight to have in your home or, of course anywhere on your side. You can have it in black, stainless steel silver, or red color, whatever matches your kitchen or your taste.
You have a control panel on its top, instead at the front as most units. And the window on the top lid gives it a stylish, modern look.
Ice Type
As mentioned before, this portable ice maker is designed to make ice cubes. It can produce 24 ice cubes in less than 15 minutes.
Ice Production
This ice maker has an amazing production rate as it can produce 40 pounds of ice each day. The storage bucket can collect more than 2 pounds of ice in it at a time.
And… the ice it makes is not only different from the regular bullet ice but also better. Bullet ice melts a lot faster than commercially made clear ice. This portable ice maker is giving you exactly that clear ice which not only cools your drink quickly but also keeps it cold for a longer time.
It is amazing to have all those features of an under counter commercial ice maker without the effort of installing it with a constant water supply line and a hose.
Here is a bit more information about this ice maker before you make a purchase if you are too particular about your way of things. The ice this ice maker drops into the storage bucket does not come in the form of separate cubes.
Instead, it falls in the shape of ice trays that break partially when they drop into the basket. These trays are not hard to break apart. Bump them with a stainless steel ice scoop and you are good to go.
Or… if you want to store the ice in your freezer for later use, you can simply store them in the form of trays. Much more compact! Break them up when you need them.
Noise Level
This countertop ice maker is almost quiet as far as it is making ice. But, like every ice maker, it does make a sound when the ice lands in the storage bucket.
Even there, the first couple of batches are going to be a bit loud but once a little ice has accumulated, the cubes falling on that are quite muffled.
Extra Features
This ice maker has done everything to please you. So let us start counting with us all the extra features it offers.
- It has got two indicators to tell you if it needs more water or if it has shut down because of full storage. So you don’t need to keep a constant eye on it.
- It has got a timer so that you can set it to turn On or Off at a specific hour.
- You can set it to self cleaning mode and sit back. It will do the job by itself.
- You can set it to make ice cubes of your chosen size. The ice cubes come out of it in the same dimensions but the smaller you want it, the hollower it is in the middle. The cubes remain clear and melt slowly no matter what size you set it on.
Pros
- Amazing Production Rate
- Crystal Clear Ice
- Self Cleaning Option
- A Timer
Cons
- Ice Comes in the Form of Sheets, not Cubes
- A bit Heavy to Carry Around
Consumers Report
This countertop ice maker has got a great rate of customer satisfaction. If it had not, it wouldn’t be on our list. Pretty straight…No?
People are happy with the production rate and delighted at the quality of the ice. It has won countless hearts because of all those extra fancy features it is offering.
There are a few complaints about the ice that drops in the form of sheets instead of cubes but considering all the other good things, this minor inconvenience is easily forgivable.
Overall, from the thousands of customers who have used it, it has got 4.3 out of 5 star ratings.
Our Verdict
From an expert’s point of view, we can tell you that this machine is as good as it can be. From its ice production rate to its self cleaning option, everything is amazing. And there is a variety of colors to choose from.
If you do not like regular gourmet ice, this is the substitute for you. It can be a bit heavy on the budget but if you can afford it, it has the capability to prove itself worth every penny.
On our scale, it has scored a 9 out of 10.
You may also like to read: Bread Machines Consumers Report
6. Euhomy Portable Nugget Ice Maker
Do you love to chew on ice? You are not alone! We love it too. It is a bit difficult to find a countertop ice maker that makes it but we have found it for you. And it is not here just for the sake of nugget or pearl/sonic/pellet ice, whatever you call it… it works great too!
After all, it comes from Euhomy. You can certainly trust the brand name when it comes to ice makers.
Let us dive into the specifications of this unit.
| Color | Stainless Steel Silver |
| Ice Type | Nugget Ice |
| Production Rate | 30 Pounds a Day |
| Storage Capacity | 3.3 Pounds |
| Cleaning Method | Automatic |
| Material | Metal |
| Size | 21x 19.7x 13.1 Inches |
Design
This silvery sleek ice maker is sure to add a good touch to your kitchen.
The unit is rather large in size but considering the amount of ice it can produce and store, you can hardly expect it to be smaller than this.
Once you have gone through all the features it has hidden in it, you will certainly forgive it for the space it is going to take on your counter, or table.
Ice Type
This fancy ice maker makes the fancy kind of ice everyone seems to be so in love with. Yes, it makes easy-to-chew, nugget ice that is considered a luxury to have in your drinks. The soft and airy ice makes it fun to chew on it without hurting your teeth.
It will make your batch ready in around 15 minutes.
Ice Production
This portable ice maker is capable of producing 30 pounds of ice in 24 hours. That is a really good amount for a tabletop ice maker.
The storage capacity it offers is also more than most of its counterparts. You can store around 3 pounds of ice in its storage bucket.
The soft ice this ice maker makes is pretty wet and thus prone to stick together. Which can sometimes be quite annoying. But we have got you covered!
Pro tip: Set the unit to a bigger ice cube setting and the ice it will make will be more solid. It will not stick together easily. And, even if it does, hit it with a butter knife and you are good to go.
Noise Level
This ice maker is not as quiet as some others on our list. But, considering the amount of work it is doing, we can hardly blame it.
Extra Features
Here are the things that make this ice maker different from others. Not only different but also better.
- It is made to self clean itself and we love the ice makers who do it.
- This unit gives you two options to refill its water tank. You can either fill it manually like most of the countertop ice makers. Or you can, if it is more convenient for you, provide this unit with a water supply line and it will fill itself.
Pros
- Makes Nugget Ice
- Good Production Rate
- Descent Storage Capacity
- Two Ways to Refill Water
Cons
- A Bit Loud
- The Ice Sticks Together
Consumers Report
Most of the users of this ice maker are completely satisfied with it. They are in love with the kind of ice it makes. The production rate is also amazing for a countertop ice maker.
Unfortunately, a few customers have had bad luck with their units. Yes, the complaints are so far and between that, it looks like nothing but a stroke of bad luck. The ice maker they had started leaking and was beyond repair.
Other than that, this unit has a rating of 4.4 out 5 stars from its consumers.
Our Verdict
This portable ice maker is not going to be very easy on your budget. So if you do not have much to spare, you can choose another from our list. But, if you really want to chew on that soft ice, there is hardly an option better than this.
The production rate of this ice maker is quite high. But, if you do not need that much ice, you can find a smaller option right next on our list.
We give it an 8 out of 10 stars on our scale.
7. Gevi GIMN-1102 Portable Nugget Ice Maker
Yes, here is another portable ice maker that makes nugget ice but this time a smaller one. Because, of course, not everyone needs that much ice. Plus, this one has got some different and amazing features that bring it to our list. Do you want to know more?
Continue reading with us.
| Color | Blue, Black, White |
| Size | 17.6 x 9.7x 16.9 Inches |
| Ice Type | Nugget Ice |
| Production Rate | 26 Pounds a Day |
| Cleaning Method | Automatic |
| Weight | 39.9 Pounds |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
Design
This portable ice maker is mainly made of stainless steel with a little touch of another color. You can have it in blue, black, or white with stainless steel silver. A window at the top lid allows you to peek into it and also gives it a stylish and modern look. The control panel is installed at the top of the unit. All the buttons on the control panel are self explanatory and easy to use.
It is a portable ice maker and yet it is a bit on the heavier side. Considering the fact that it makes nugget ice, you cannot avoid it. It needs a special mechanism to make nugget ice and that causes the ice makers to be heavy. If you want those fun nuggets in your drinks, you will have to compromise on that.
Ice type
As we mentioned before, this ice maker is designed to produce nugget ice. That soft and airy ice that everyone loves to chew on. It sends a new batch of ice to your way every 15 minutes. You can definitely enjoy it outdoors with an instant coffee as well by making a iced-coffee.
Ice Production
The production rate of this unit is quite decent. You van have 26 pounds every day.
You can fill its water reservoir with 3 quarts of water and set it to work. Other than that, you can also attach a water hose for an unlimited water supply so you don’t have to fill the water tank manually.
Not only this, the ice storage capacity won’t be full until it has got more than 4 pounds of ice in it.
Noise Level
This ice maker is not as quiet as you might wish it to be. The sound it produces is pretty bearable when you start using it. But, unfortunately, this ice maker can become loud with the passage of time.
Extra Features
Talking about the extra features, this ice maker is not going to disappoint you. Let’s see what to expect from it.
- There are two ways to refill the water in the tank. You can either do it manually or you can connect it with a water supply line and it will refill by itself.
- This ice maker has an automatic cleaning mode so you don’t have to go through the ordeal manually.
- This ice maker has a UV light in it that purifies the water before it is turned into ice. You cannot actually see it unless you remove the top cover of the machine, which is certainly not recommendable. This is an amazing and quite modern feature to have in your ice maker to have clean ice!
Pros
- Nugget Ice
- Reasonable Production Rate
- Good Storage Capacity
- Auto Cleaning Option
- Two Ways to Refill Water
- UV light to purify water
Cons
- Becomes Loud With Time
- A Bit Heavy
Consumers Report
This countertop ice maker is relatively new in the market and still it has won thousands of hearts by its performance. People are in love with its looks and, for sure, the ice it makes. It is just the right thing to have in your small kitchen to enjoy all your beverages.
But, it seems there is no such thing as a 100% satisfaction rate from the customers. Some people found it too loud to have in their homes. Others had their units dead not long after the purchase.
Despite the few complaints against this ice maker, it has got 4.2 out of 5 stars ratings from its consumers.
Our Verdict
If you are looking for an ice maker for a decent amount of nugget ice, this one can resolve all your problems. The ice it makes is of great quality. It cools your drinks quickly, without leaving an aftertaste.
As far as the noise is concerned, the company is standing at the back of their product. Yes…! Gevi has amazing customer service. If your ice maker is giving you a tough time, you can contact the company and they will do their best to resolve the issue.
So, if you really want to own that ice maker or any ice maker in that case, you have to take a leap of faith. Best wishes from our side…!
We will give it a 7.5 out of 10 on our scale.
8. Prime Home Direct Countertop Ice Maker
The next on our list is this sweet little silver fellow, which is going to produce just enough ice for your home or office to help you keep your cool. It works super fast and keeps working so you can have a continuous supply of fresh ice.
Let us read all the features in detail.
| Color | Stainless Steel Silver |
| Production Rate | 26 Pounds a Day |
| Weight | 18.85 Pounds |
| Material | Plastic |
| Cleaning Method | Automatic |
Design
You don’t have a variety of colors to choose from for this ice maker, but the silver color it has can please most of us. It goes well with most of the modern appliances in your kitchen.
The body is mainly made of plastic and the unit is not heavy at all. This means you can use it as a portable ice maker without worrying about the weight.
Like most countertop ice makers, this too has a window on its lid to see what is going on inside.
The control panel works through an LCD and it is extremely easy to use.
Ice Type
Like a regular portable ice maker, this one makes bullet ice. It has 9 metallic pistons installed in it that make a fresh batch of ice in as little time as 7 minutes. Pretty impressive… No?
Ice Production
This unit makes 26 pounds of ice every day. You can fill the water tank with around 2 liters of water and let it do its job. And it will literally give you the first batch of ice in less than 8 minutes! The speed is incredible and the machine runs like a workhorse.
Noise Level
If this machine is working fast, you must not assume that it is making a lot of noise too. On the contrary, the machine is incredibly quiet and works in peace.
Extra Features
This amazing ice maker ensures your ease with the following features:
- The machine auto cleans itself so you don’t need to engage in all the steps manually.
- It notifies you when the ice bucket is full or if it needs more water.
Pros
- A Descent Production Rate
- Great Working Speed
- Quiet
- Automatic Cleaning Mode
- Light Weight
Cons
- Relatively Small
Consumers Report
This countertop ice maker has become quite a sensation among its users. People are almost thrilled to have a tiny machine in their homes that makes unlimited ice. It is quiet. The quality of the ice is amazing. The machine fits well on the countertop. What else can you expect from a small ice maker?
Some people wish it was bigger. Others need a stainless steel scoop to replace the plastic one that comes with it. But, you can never put an end to those rants.
The thousands of customers who have used it gave it a 4.5 out of 5 star rating.
Our Verdict
This simple and easy to use ice maker is a great value for its price. If you do not want anything fancy like a nugget ice maker, this ice maker can be your best partner.
Feed your machine filtered water, keep it clean, and it will work great.
It has earned an 8 out of 10 on our scale.
9. Free Village Tabletop Ice Maker
Do you love to go camping? Are you looking for a compact, light weight, mini ice maker that helps you cool your drinks wherever you go? We have found this exactly for you!
This tiny little beauty is absolutely light weight and yet makes a lot of ice.
What else does it have to offer?
Read with us to know further.
| Color | Black, White |
| Size | 13x 9.5x 13.8 Inches |
| Weight | 16.7 Pounds |
| Production Rate | 26 Pounds a Day |
| Ice Type | Bullet Ice |
| Material | Plastic |
| Cleaning Method | Automatic |
Design
Made in two classic colors, black and white, this portable ice maker is as unique in its design as it could be. Instead of a small window on the lid, it has a unique transparent front that also allows the view of the storage bucket. You can see all that beautifully made ice piling in your ice maker and be delighted.
It makes just as much ice as any other regular ice maker but this one is the smallest in size on our list. It is not going to take up massive space in your kitchen or inside your vehicle. And… still, this is not all.
This unit is exceptionally lightweight so you can take it with you anywhere you go.
Are you impressed? You will definitely be in the end even if you have not yet!
Ice Type
It makes bullet ice with the help of 9 metallic pistons installed in it. And it can complete a cycle in as less as 6 minutes! Yes, you are going to have fresh ice every 6 minutes.
Ice Production
Despite the smaller size, the production rate of this unit is just as good as any other regular tabletop ice maker. It will give you 26 Pounds of ice every day. If you have it set on a small ice option it will produce new ice every 6 minutes. It will take 8 minutes if you want bigger bullets of ice. So the speed is great.
If you do not need it constantly, you can simply run it for a day or two. Collect enough ice in your freezer and then just plug it out. But if you need it on a daily basis, you need not to worry because this thing is quite reliable and never gets tired.
Noise Level
No disappointment on this part too. The unit is almost quiet except when it drops ice in the storage bucket. But surely, you cannot dump ice without making noise.
Extra Features
Here is what it has to offer further.
- The unit is designed to clean itself automatically.
- It allows you to make ice in two different sizes.
- Self explanatory instructions on the control panel make it extremely easy to operate.
Pros
- Great Speed
- Decent Production rate
- Light weight
- Unique Appearance
- Small Size
- Quiet
Cons
- Not For a Huge Demand of Ice
Consumers Report
For the price this portable ice maker comes in, it has exceeded the expectations of its customers. People are more than delighted to have their hands on this mini ice maker that works like a horse.
The only complaint you will hear is about the false signal of storage full. Yes, it does require some manual work to stop that ice from piling up in front of the bucket.
Unfortunately, there is not a single ice maker yet in the market which does not have this issue. It is better to compromise with minor issues instead of calling for the bigger ones.
The thousands of customers who have used this ice maker, gave it a 4.3 out of 5 star rating.
Our Verdict
Are you the RV guy we talked about earlier? Do you still have any doubts about this ice maker? O, please… Common! Just dismiss all those baseless doubts and go for this one. This ice maker is just the best product for you if you want to make a decent amount of ice even inside your home.
But if you are looking for some fancy ice options, you are right in not buying this one. We have got some pretty good options for you too.
Overall, this product has the guts to score a 9 out 10 on our scale.
10. SOOPYK Countertop Ice Maker
We have something on our list for everyone. Are you looking for a budget friendly portable ice maker? We have got you covered because we have something on our list for everyone.
We have already listed some budget friendly ice makers above but here is the most inexpensive of all. And yet it works great.
Are you interested? Let us read further.
| Color | White, Black, Red, Green, Silver |
| Material | Plastic |
| Production Rate | 27 Pounds a Day |
| Ice Type | Bullet Ice |
| Weight | 18.6 Pounds |
| Cleaning Method | Automatic |
Design
This one has got a variety of colors to match your kitchen, or maybe, just to win your heart. You can select from white, black, red, green, and silver.
The design is pretty simple and modern. A transparent window in the lid can keep your kids entertained as the ice making process is quite interesting in itself.
It is moderate in size and weight so you can easily take it with you wherever you want.
Ice Type
This one makes bullet ice. Just like most portable ice makers, it has got 9 metallic pistons installed in it that produce ice in less than 6 minutes.
Ice Production
This ice maker is no less than any expensive unit for its production rate. It produces 27 pounds of ice a day. You just need to add around 2 liters of water in the reservoir and it will make new batches of ice every 5 to 7 minutes.
Unfortunately, you can’t select the size of your ice cubes. All the ice bullets it makes will come in the same size.
Noise Levels
This tabletop ice maker is almost quiet. All you can hear from it is a constant humming sound except for the time when it is dumping a new ice batch in the storage bucket.
BUT… Beware of the Beep. When this ice maker needs a refill or if the storage capacity is full, it signals you with a beep. It is not going to beep once or twice. It beeps for like THIRTY Times… or unless you obey it by refilling that water tank or just plugging it Off.
It can be pretty annoying, especially during the night but there is no solution to it as yet other than just switching it Off before you go to sleep.
Automatic Cleaning
Despite the low price it comes at, this ice maker has got the option of self cleaning.
Pros
- Budget Friendly
- Descent Production Rate
- Self Cleaning Option
- Quiet
Cons
- No Options to Change the Size of Ice
- The Incessant Buzzer
Consumers Report
For the price this valuable ice maker is coming in, the consumers have hardly anything to complain about. People are happy with the production rate and the ice quality of this portable ice maker.
The only part people are worried about is its buzzer and that is ruining its reputation as a good ice maker. Other than that, the ice maker has a high satisfaction rate with its customers.
The thousands of consumers who have given it a try gave it a 4.3 out of 5 stars rating.
Our Verdict
This ice maker can be your high choice if you want no fancy ice or ice maker at a reasonable price. It is worth every penny. It does not offer different sizes of ice or other extra features. But it does not totally disappoint you either. You can use the option of auto cleaning in this too.
As far as the buzzer is concerned, you can keep an eye on the unit and resolve the issue by refilling the water tank or taking ice out before it signals. Other than that, switching it off before going to bed seems like a good idea.
We give it a 7.5 out of 10 on our scale.
11. Euhomy Countertop Ice Maker
Euhomy is a name that you can trust while buying an ice maker. And that is exactly the reason we have to add another from the same brand. We had to add this one to our list because of its versatility.
People have different choices and it is not every day that you come across a “pink ice maker”. Are you a “Pink Lady”, or maybe a “Purple Guy”? This one goes for you!
| Colors | Pink, Purple, Red, Black, Blue, Grey, White |
| Production Rate | 26 Pounds a Day |
| Ice Type | Bullet Ice |
| Size | 12.9x 8.9x 11.5 Inches |
| Cleaning Method | Automatic |
Design
Available in seven unique colors, this ice maker is going to win your heart as soon as you look at it. Pink, purple, red, white, black, blue, gray, you name the color and it will appear by your side.
The top lid has a window in it to peek through. The control panel is installed on the top too, it gives you easy access to the buttons without bending over.
If you are concerned about the size, you do not need to worry at all. It is not huge and can sit perfectly well on your countertop. Or anywhere you want it to be. This portable ice maker is not going to disappoint one bit.
Ice Type
This extraordinary looking ice maker makes ice like any ordinary portable ice maker. 9 metallic pistons are installed in it to produce bullet ice. And it is pretty quick in doing its job. You can have a fresh batch of ice every 6 minutes.
Ice Production
It can produce around 26 lbs of ice every day. That is enough for a small family or occasional gatherings. If you are going to have a huge gathering coming to your place, you can make the extra ice and store it in your freezer ahead of time.
Noise Level
This handsome little fellow is going to sit on your counter as quietly as it can be and produce amazing ice.
Extra Features
At such a low price, this portable ice maker has got a lot to offer. Let us check the extra features it has.
- There is an infrared sensor in the ice maker that detects the storage capacity of the unit.
- This unit is designed to clean itself automatically without putting you in the hassle of doing it manually.
- You can change the setting of the unit to have big or small ice bullets.
Pros
- A Huge Color Variety
- Descent Production Rate
- Quiet
- Budget Friendly
Cons
- Not Recommendable For a Huge Requirement of Ice
Consumers Report
If you are looking for the most highly rated product on our list, here it is. People are in love with this charming unit and not without a reason. This ice maker is working amazingly well and with all the features it has, the price is quite reasonable.
The only thing a few people have complained is about the ice that melts in the storage bucket. But, that is how portable ice makers work. They are ice makers and not freezers, you can shift the ice to the freezer if you do not intend to use it immediately.
The thousands of customers who used it, gave it a 4.6 out of 5 stars rating.
Our Verdict
This is the best ice maker you can have to fulfill the needs of a small family. It can sit anywhere at your home or RV without taking up a lot of space. You can trust the product for giving you what it promises.
But if you want a bigger ice maker that makes more ice you need to look for other options on this list. You will also find the best nugget ice makers here if you don’t want to have a bullet ice maker.
Our scale gives it a 9.6 out of 10 stars.
How Does an Ice Maker Work?
Ice makers work like your fridge or air conditioner. They use refrigerant to bring the temperatures down and make things cooler. Except for the basic mechanism, the rest of the process is different. Here are the highlights of how it is done.
Step-by-Step Process
- Ice makers take water from a water supply line or the water reservoir tank and pump it to the cold metal trays or pistons.
- Water is turned into ice in different ways, depending on what type of ice a particular ice maker is making.
- Once the ice is ready, it is dispatched to the storage basket automatically.
- The stored ice will melt in the ice maker if not used in time. Unless your ice maker also works as a freezer.
- The water from the melted ice is either discarded through the drain hose(in under counter ice makers) or recycled to make more ice (in top counter ice makers).
- Ice makers automatically stop making more ice once the storage of the unit is full.
You can read about the working of ice maker in detail here and to know your ice maker better.
What to Do if Ice Maker Not Working?
Are you worried because your ice maker has stopped working all of a sudden? Sometimes, reasons can be pretty simple and easy to solve. Here is what you can do to look for the problems and solve them because, more often than not, it is a minor issue you can solve by yourself.
- Check the power supply. Has anything caused it to switch Off? If yes, turn it on. If it is already on, try to reset it.
- See if your ice maker has run out of water. If so, it is time to refill it.
- It is quite common for ice maker storage buckets to send a false signal of full capacity. A false signal turns Off the ice maker, just as a true signal does. Keep an eye on the signaling and clear your ice bucket to make the ice maker work again.
- Is there anything stopping the water to reach the cold ice trays/ pistons? Try to keep the water clean.
- Have you given your ice maker a deep clean in the past 6 months? If not, it is high time for it.
Read all the problems of ice makers and their solutions in detail.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the best place to keep your portable ice maker?
Portable ice makers are free standing units you can use anywhere. You can take them with you for camping, boating, or to outside parties. They work perfectly inside a kitchen, office, or RV. you just need to take care that they are not at a place too close. They need air venting to work properly.
What kind of water should you use in your ice maker?
You can use any clean water in your ice maker. Different kinds of water give different results. Tap water will not make clear ice. Spring water ice will taste good but it can cause mineral buildup in your ice maker.
You can also use distilled water but that will take a bit longer to freeze because of the lack of air particles but it will help keep your ice maker clean. Though it is always best to use filtered water to have good quality ice.
Can I run juice through my ice maker to make popsicles?
That is an extremely bad idea. Never use anything in your ice maker except water. Anything sugary will cause damage to different parts of the ice maker.
Can a portable ice maker store ice for a long time?
Portable ice makers are supposed to make ice, not to store them. They can store a limited amount of ice for a short time. Their storage bins are not freezers, ice stays in them for a short time because the overall temperature of an ice maker is not too high.
But slowly the ice melts if not used in time. In case you want to store ice for a longer time, you can always fill it in a few bags and store them in your freezer until you need them.
How often should I clean my ice maker?
You can clean your ice maker monthly. But it is recommendable to give it a deep clean after every 6 to 9 months depending on your usage.
Does my portable ice maker need a water supply line?
No, it doesn’t. Unless you buy a model that has one. Most of the portable ice makers come with a water tank that you need to fill manually.
Some models do have both the options; you can either fill it manually or you can connect it with a water hose to let it fill automatically. You don’t need to install your portable ice maker permanently in both cases.
Can I plug Off my ice maker when not in use?
Yes, you certainly can. That is one of the best things about portable ice makers. You can use them whenever you need them, and pack them away when you do not.
If you don’t need your ice maker on a daily basis, you can run it once or twice a week, store enough ice for the week and then simply switch it Off. This way you can save your time and energy too.
