For anyone who entertains frequently, enjoys chilled beverages daily, or simply wants the convenience of ice on demand, a dedicated countertop ice maker is a game-changer. These compact appliances eliminate the need for constantly refilling ice trays and free up space in your freezer, providing a steady supply of fresh ice whenever you need it.
With so many models available, choosing the right one for your home can be a challenge. This roundup simplifies your search by highlighting ten of the best ice makers on the market. We’ve considered factors like daily production capacity, ice style, speed, and special features to help you find the perfect machine for your kitchen, bar, or next gathering.
Our Top Picks for Home Ice Makers
- NewAir Portable Ice Maker 50 lb. Daily | Red
- EUHOMY Countertop Ice Maker Machine with Handle, 26lbs in 24Hrs
- Frigidaire EFIC108-Silver Compact Ice Maker, 26 lb per Day
- Frigidaire 26 Lbs per Day Portable Compact Maker, Black Stainless
- GE Profile Opal 2.0 with 0.75 Gallon Tank, Nugget Ice Maker
- FRIGIDAIRE EFIC189-Silver Compact Ice Maker, 26 lb per Day
- GE Profile Opal 2.0 | Countertop Nugget Ice Maker
- hOmeLabs Countertop Ice Maker – 9 Ice Cubes in Just 6 Minutes
- Igloo Automatic Self-Cleaning Portable Electric Countertop Ice Maker
- Euhomy Ice Maker Machine Countertop, 26lbs in 24Hrs
NewAir Portable Ice Maker 50 lb. Daily | Red
For those who host large gatherings, the NewAir ice maker stands out with its impressive 50-pound daily production capacity. This means you’ll have a nearly endless supply of ice for parties, barbecues, or everyday use without multiple trips to the store. Its vibrant red design adds a pop of color to your kitchen or bar area.
Convenience is key with this model. It produces its first batch of bullet-shaped ice in under 10 minutes and offers three size options. Maintenance is simplified with a self-cleaning function that helps prevent mold and mildew, and all ice-making components are constructed from BPA-free plastic for peace of mind.
EUHOMY Countertop Ice Maker Machine with Handle
The EUHOMY ice maker combines speed, portability, and quiet operation. You can enjoy your first batch of bullet ice in approximately six minutes, and it operates at a quiet noise level of less than 45dB. Its compact size and sturdy handle make it easy to move from the kitchen to the patio or even take on a road trip in your RV.
This model is designed for smart and easy use. It features an infrared sensor that alerts you when the ice basket is full or when the unit needs more water. The one-touch self-cleaning function runs a 30-minute cycle, ensuring your ice is always made in a clean environment without any manual scrubbing.
Frigidaire EFIC108-Silver Compact Ice Maker
Frigidaire is a trusted name in kitchen appliances, and this compact silver model lives up to the reputation. It efficiently produces up to 26 pounds of clear, square ice cubes per day. In less than six minutes, you can have a batch of ice ready for your drinks, storing up to 2.2 pounds at a time.
This ice maker offers excellent versatility with its three ice cube size settings—small, medium, and large—allowing you to choose the perfect cube for your beverage. The electronic controls are straightforward and user-friendly, making the ice-making process simple from the moment you take it out of the box.
Frigidaire 26 Lbs per Day Portable Compact Maker, Black Stainless
This Frigidaire model offers the same reliable performance as its silver counterpart but in a sleek black stainless finish that fits modern kitchen decors. It maintains a high production capacity of 26 pounds of ice every 24 hours, ensuring you are well-stocked for any occasion.
It shares the fast, six-minute ice-making time and can hold 2.2 pounds of ice in its basket. You have the flexibility to choose between two different cube sizes to suit your preference, whether you need ice that chills quickly or melts slowly.
GE Profile Opal 2.0 with 0.75 Gallon Tank
The GE Profile Opal 2.0 is for those who prefer the unique texture of chewable nugget ice, often considered the “good ice.” This machine produces soft, chewable ice that retains flavor and is perfect for everything from sodas to cocktails. It begins making ice in about 10 minutes and can produce up to 38 pounds per day.
Where this model truly stands out is its smart technology. With built-in WiFi, you can connect it to the SmartHQ app to monitor its status, schedule ice making, and receive software updates. It’s also compatible with Alexa and Google for voice control, offering a truly modern and connected kitchen experience.
FRIGIDAIRE EFIC189-Silver Compact Ice Maker
Another dependable option from Frigidaire, the EFIC189 model, is a workhorse capable of producing 26 pounds of clear ice daily. Its efficient system can create a batch of ice in under six minutes, and the unit can store over two pounds at a time for easy access.
This ice maker is designed for ease of use with simple electronic controls. It provides the option to select from two different ice cube sizes, giving you control over how your ice is made. Its compact footprint ensures it won’t take up too much valuable counter space.
GE Profile Opal 2.0 | Countertop Nugget Ice Maker
This version of the popular GE Profile Opal 2.0 focuses on the core features that make nugget ice so desirable. It produces chewable, crunchy ice that cools drinks quickly and is a pleasure to snack on. You can expect your first batch in about 10 minutes and a continuous supply of up to 38 pounds per day.
Smart connectivity remains a central feature, allowing you to pair the ice maker with the SmartHQ app for remote monitoring and control. Automatic software updates ensure your appliance always has the latest features, and voice control via Alexa or Google adds a layer of convenience to your ice-making routine.
hOmeLabs Countertop Ice Maker
The hOmeLabs ice maker is a fantastic all-around choice, delivering nine bullet-shaped ice cubes in as little as six minutes. With a daily output of 26 pounds, it’s well-suited for family use and entertaining. Its modern black design is sleek and fits seamlessly into most kitchen aesthetics.
This model provides flexibility with two bullet-shaped ice size options. You can choose small cubes for rapid cooling or larger cubes that melt more slowly. For added value, it comes with an ice scoop and five reusable ice bags for storage and portability, and it includes a self-cleaning function.
Igloo Automatic Self-Cleaning Portable Electric Countertop Ice Maker
Igloo brings its expertise in cooling to the countertop with this portable ice maker. It features a stainless steel finish and a compact design that looks good in any setting. It quickly produces nine cylinder-shaped ice cubes in about seven minutes.
With a 2-quart water tank, this unit can produce up to 26 pounds of ice in 24 hours. The ice basket is easily removable for serving, and a drain plug simplifies the process of emptying the machine for cleaning or storage. The self-cleaning function makes maintenance hassle-free.
Euhomy Ice Maker Machine Countertop, 26lbs in 24Hrs
This Euhomy ice maker is a solid performer for everyday home use, capable of producing 26 pounds of ice over a full day. Its compact countertop design ensures it saves space while providing a reliable source of ice for your drinks and entertaining needs.
While specific features for this model are focused on efficient ice production, Euhomy is known for creating user-friendly appliances. This machine is designed to be a straightforward and effective solution for anyone looking to add the convenience of an ice maker to their kitchen without complexity.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Ice Maker for Your Home
When my freezer’s ice tray just isn’t cutting it anymore, I know it’s time to look at a dedicated ice maker. But with so many options, picking the right one can feel overwhelming. I’ve found that focusing on a few key factors makes the decision much easier. The first thing I always consider is the type of ice I want. Do I need small, chewable nuggets for smoothies and soda? Or do I prefer clear, slow-melting bullet cubes for my iced coffee and cocktails? Some machines even produce gourmet clear ice or large cubes, which are perfect for whiskey. Knowing your preferred ice style narrows down the choices instantly.
Next, I look at production and storage capacity. This is a big one. If I’m hosting a party or have a large family, I need a machine that can make a lot of ice quickly, maybe 20-30 pounds per day. For just myself or a couple, a smaller countertop model producing 15-20 pounds a day is plenty. I also check the storage bin size. There’s no point in a machine that makes ice fast if it can only hold a small amount. I look for a balance between daily output and how much it can keep cold and ready to serve.
Size and portability are huge, especially in a kitchen with limited counter space. I always measure my available space before I even start browsing. Countertop models are super convenient and portable, but they do take up real estate. If I’m tight on space, I might consider an under-counter model that integrates with my cabinetry, but that’s a more permanent installation. I also think about where the water will come from. Many portable units have a refillable water tank, which is great for flexibility. Others can be hooked up to a direct water line for a more hands-off experience, similar to a refrigerator’s ice maker.
Finally, I pay attention to the little things that make daily use better. How loud is the machine? I don’t want a noisy appliance humming away in my living space. How easy is it to clean? A removable water reservoir and a self-cleaning function are massive time-savers. Extra features like a transparent window to see the ice level or a “quick ice” function for when I need a batch in a hurry can also be deciding factors. By thinking about my ice preferences, household needs, and kitchen layout, I can find the perfect ice maker for my home without any guesswork.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much ice can I expect a home ice maker to produce?
This varies a lot by model, but most countertop units for home use will produce between 1 and 2.5 pounds of ice every 24 hours. The first cycle is usually the fastest, with some machines delivering ice in as little as 6 minutes. It’s important to distinguish between the daily production (how much it can make in a full day) and the storage bin capacity (how much it can hold at once). A machine might make 25 pounds a day but only store 3 pounds at a time, meaning you’ll need to empty the bin periodically to keep up with maximum production.
Do I need to hook it up to a water line?
Not necessarily! This is one of the best features of many modern ice makers. Most popular countertop models are “portable” and have a built-in water tank that you fill manually. This gives you total flexibility to place the unit anywhere you have an electrical outlet. If you prefer a more permanent, hands-free solution, there are models designed for under-counter installation that do require a direct water line hookup, much like a dishwasher. For most people looking for a simple solution, the manual-fill tank is the way to go.
How do I clean and maintain my ice maker?
Regular cleaning is crucial for keeping your ice tasting fresh and your machine running smoothly. I always start by unplugging the unit. For machines with a water tank, I wash the tank with warm, soapy water and rinse it thoroughly. To clean the interior, I use a mixture of water and vinegar or a cleaner specifically made for ice machines, running a cleaning cycle if the machine has one. It’s also important to regularly wipe down the exterior and, every few months, descale the machine to remove mineral buildup, especially if you have hard water. Always check your user manual for the manufacturer’s specific instructions.
Why is the ice sometimes cloudy or white?
Cloudy ice is perfectly normal for most portable ice makers! The cloudiness is caused by tiny air bubbles and minerals trapped in the water as it freezes rapidly. While clear ice is often considered more aesthetically pleasing for drinks, cloudy ice is just as cold and safe. If you prefer clear ice, look for machines that have a special “clear ice” function, which typically works by circulating water during the freezing process to push out impurities and air bubbles. Using filtered or distilled water can also help reduce cloudiness.
What is the difference between a portable ice maker and a refrigerator’s built-in ice maker?
The main differences are capacity, convenience, and specialization. A refrigerator’s ice maker is integrated and convenient, but its production is often slower and it shares space with your frozen food. A dedicated portable ice maker is a specialist appliance. It produces ice much faster—often in minutes instead of hours—and in much larger quantities, making it one of the best ice makers for home use during parties or hot summers. It also operates independently, so if your fridge ice maker breaks, you have a backup. The trade-off is that it takes up counter space and usually has a smaller storage bin.