Having an ice maker machine can be one of the best investments you’ll make. Take any drink. Imagine having access to ice at any time to enhance that drink and to bring out the mouth-watering flavors. Imagine a sun-soaked day, beautiful blue skies, and sipping a beverage that leaves you questioning whether you’ve ever had anything as refreshing before.
This applies to when you’re at home and enjoying your own or your loved one’s company with a cold beverage—or even selling drinks, such as at a restaurant or café. While bagged ice is okay, it takes up too much room and can be costly long term. In short, it’s much better to get yourself an ice machine.
With this in mind, today we’re going to explore the ten best residential ice makers on the market, including both countertop devices and freestanding. We’ll detail everything you need to know to find the right one, and we’ll share our complete buying guide with you, so you know exactly what you’re looking for.
View The Best Residential Ice Maker Below
1. GE Profile Opal Countertop Nugget Ice Maker
To kickstart things, we’re going straight in with the GE Profile Ice Maker, a countertop machine made from one of the most reputable kitchen appliance manufacturers in the world. This is our best overall choice when it comes to balancing price with performance.
What sets these stainless steel ice makers apart from the rest is the fact they have an ice production cycle that only lasts as long as 20 minutes. The type of gourmet ice created comes crushed as you would get in a restaurant. In total, this ice maker portable machine can create up to 24 pounds of ice in 24-hours, and has a 3lbs storage capacity!
This ice maker comes with smart technology to keep the ice bin from overflowing when the storage bin is full. It’s compatible with the GE Profile App, which you can connect to your device to control it via Bluetooth. It includes a one-year warranty against parts and labor. The fact you don’t need to connect these ice makers up to a water outlet – just pour in what you need – is one of the reasons why this is one of the most popular and highest rated ice makers on the market!
Pros:
+ Fully compatible with the GE Profile Bluetooth Smartphone app
+ This ice maker is covered by a 1-year limited warranty, so you don’t have to pay for parts or labor costs
+ No need to plug into a water outlet; just pour in what you need
+ Has an ice production rate of 24 pounds of ice per day, and can hold 3 pounds of ice at any time
Cons:
– None! This ice maker is considered one of the best machines out there right now!
Why We Like It – The professional design of this gourmet ice maker is simply one aspect you cannot ignore. The sleek and polished chrome and stainless steel look is beautiful, and it’s sure to turn heads at any social event you’re hosting. It’s the perfect size for any counter and promises to make a great addition to your home.
2. EdgeStar IB250SS Ice Maker
If you’re looking for a larger commercial unit that’s easy to use, or you just have a large amount of ice to make, you may not need to look further than EdgeStar. This is our top premium option for several reasons, but mainly because when it comes to making ice, it rarely gets better than this.
These larger gourmet ice machines are capable of producing up to 25 lbs per day and can store 20 lbs of ice at any time. This is all thanks to the crescent-shaped design that helps your ice stay colder and fresher for longer! What’s more, there’s no drain line required, so simply set it up, and you’ll be good to go once it’s turned on!
Included with your ice machine purchase, you’ll receive a built-in ice scoop, a water line for connecting up your maker, and even a removable ice bin to transport your ice to wherever you need. All of this comes at a price, but when it comes to the ice-making experience, it doesn’t get much better than this. It’s easy to see why this is known as one of the best undercounter ice maker machines.
Pros:
+ Can produce up to 25 lbs of ice per day, and store up to 20 lbs of ice at any time
+ This undercounter ice maker comes with a reversible door mount you can link up on the best side for you
+ Doesn’t require a drain line
+ This undercounter ice machine is available in three unique styles and designs
Cons:
– These ice machines require a water line to create the ice
Why We Like It – To help you have an even better experience, you’ll be happy to know that you can mount the door of this best undercounter ice maker on either side. You can mount it on either the left or the right hinge, meaning you can easily control the opening side for whatever is best for you!
3. Frigidaire Portable Ice Making Machine
If you’re looking to enjoy all the ice you could ever want or need, but you’re shopping on a budget and don’t want to spend a fortune, the Frigidaire Portable Ice Maker should have a place at the top of your list.
This little ice maker can surprisingly create up to 26 lbs of ice within any 24 hours. All you have to do is pour the water in and leave it to do the rest; no water line required. The tank can hold up to 3-litres of water, which should be enough to keep you going. What’s more, it only operates at 42dB, which is nice and quiet enough!
Of course, the main two benefits of this device include the portability (which means you can set it up anywhere and anytime), and the affordable price tag, which makes this a great deal. It even comes with a built-in ice setting so you can easily adjust the size of your ice cubes! Nice!
Pros:
+ Produces nine solid ice cubes every 7-15 minutes, which means ice whenever you need it
+ Built with a large window so you can see what’s going on without having to open the device
+ Comes with an ice shovel for removing your ice safely from your ice machine
+ Portable, compact, and doesn’t require a water line!
Cons:
– Doesn’t have much storage capacity compared with other models
Why We Like It – If you’re eco-conscious but still want to enjoy ice cubes when you want it, this is the ice maker for you. There’s no polluting with this machine, no chemicals or freon used in the refrigeration process, just the electrical power and water is all that’s needed!
4. hOmeLabs Commercial Ice Maker Machine
Now it’s time to take a look at the big guns. This maker has a huge 99-pound capacity. If you’re a commercial property looking for an ice maker machine, hOmeLabs has a solution you’re not going to want to miss. It can create 45 ice pieces in under 20 minutes. Both quantity and quality are covered with this device.
Of course, the best feature here is the freestanding design. Since it’s quite big, you can place it and install it wherever you want. The fact it comes with a 1.2L water storage capacity tank means you can easily keep it full. There’s even a water line port, so you really don’t have to think about filling the tank up ever!
All the settings and features are easily controlled using the handy LED screen located on the front of the device, which displays everything from water and ice levels, and even setting stats like how thick the ice is! It’s all here in one of the most complete experiences out there!
Pros:
+ This is one of the best ice makers to use at home or in a commercial business
+ Built with an LCD indicator and screen for controlling all settings
+ You can custom set the thickness of your ice
+ Can produce up to 99-pounds of ice per day, and can store up to 29 lbs of ice at a time
Cons:
– Could be too expensive for some people’s budgets
Why We Like It – To help ensure you’re never out of pocket, hOmeLabs offer this ice machine with a handy one-year warranty and a free 30-day exchange policy. This means if you experience any problems with your device, you know the company will always be on hand to help. So you’ll always have a working ice machine!
5. Euhomy Commercial Best Ice Machine
This Euhomy Commercial-Ready Ice Maker is one of the number one, best selling undercounter ice makers where you really can’t go wrong. As the title suggests, this is a built-in ice maker commercial unit, but if you have a large home, or you’re going to be getting through a ton of ice, this could be the ideal unit.
It’s capable of an incredible ice production rate of 100 pounds of ice every day, backed by a 33lbs storage bin. This machine specializes in creating crystal-clear ice that has been approved to be used in commercial settings. Everything you need is included here, and all your entire ice-making needs will be met here.
These best undercounter ice makers do require both a water line and a drain line, but all the compatible pipes are included with your purchase, as is an ice shovel. It’s freestanding and known for being one of the best undercounter ice machines. You can stand it wherever you want (except outside). This stainless steel ice maker is a device you can’t afford to ignore, especially with the amount of ice it’s able to produce.
Pros:
+ A best selling ice maker machine which is ideal for commercial applications
+ Small, compact but still freestanding and suitable for any installation; considered one of the best undercounter ice machines out there
+ Comes with self-cleaning and delay functions controlled through the LED screen
+ Comes with an ice production rate of 100 pounds of ice per day, which a 33lbs storage capacity
Cons:
– Cannot be used without a water and drain line installed
– Could be too big for home use
Why We Like It – The control panel that’s built onto the front of these ice makers is one of the best features and helps enhance your experience tenfold. With power controls, delay production controls, and even self-cleaning controls, using an ice maker effectively has never been more effortless.
6. Vremi Countertop Ice Maker
If you’re on the hunt for an ice maker that can produce ice quickly whenever you want it but is also small and compact enough to be used at your garden parties or just to make your drinks even more refreshing, you may not need to look further than the Vremi Countertop.
This portable device can produce up to nine bullet-shaped ice cubes in just 10 minutes at a rate of 25 lbs of ice every 24-hours. This shape has been specifically chosen to complement drinks. It’s shaped in a way that the ice can be enjoyed in any glass.
What’s more, the intelligent mode means you can easily make ice cubes without having to learn about any settings or controls. The warning lights stop it overfilling when the storage bin is full (although the automatic shut-off should take care of this for you) and keep it filled with water! Plain and simple!
Pros:
+ Comes with a 1.5lbs gourmet ice bucker and plastic scoop for easy ice transport
+ Can produce nine ice cubes every 10 minutes, or 25 lbs of ice per day
+ Compact and lightweight enough to be used everywhere and anywhere
+ It doesn’t require a water or drain line to use; just fill with as much water as you want!
Cons:
– None! This handy ice maker is considered one of the best and is backed by 1,000+ five-star reviews!
Why We Like It – What you’ll love about these ice machines is just how efficient they are to use. With only 120-watts of power, this is an eco-friendly ice machine. The fact that it makes little noise or sound while being used, even if you’re using it right next to your BBQ or party, means it’s not going to get in the way or cause any disruptions!
7. COSTWAY Ice Maker Machine
This is another speedy built-in ice maker like the ice maker Costco machine. It’s compact enough to be set up and enjoyed anywhere, including kitchens of any size, an RV, a boat, a bar, or anywhere there’s an outlet. COSTWAY have outdone themselves. Just make sure you check what size you’re after!
With an impressive production rate of 48lbs of ice per 24-hour period, all of which is carried out without producing any disruptive sounds or using up too much energy or electricity, this fully automatic clear ice maker is also one of the simplest. Just use the buttons of the front to tell the machine what you want and leave it to do the rest!
With plenty of great features, including an automatic shutdown feature to save power once the clear ice has been made, and a high-quality stainless steel and plastic build that’s designed to last, it’s easy to see why these stainless steel ice makers are popular.
Pros:
+ This stainless steel ice maker can produce up to 48lbs of ice every 24-hours
+ Automatically shuts itself off once the ice has been made to save power
+ Gives off next-to-no noise and uses such a small amount of electricity, making this one of the best stainless steel ice makers out there
+ Completely customizable controls to adjust how your ice is on output
Cons:
– Only holds a maximum of 2lbs of ice at any time
Why We Like It – While everything here with this clear ice maker is handled automatically, that doesn’t mean you don’t get control over the ice you’re getting. Using the controls, you can adjust the frequency of the ice and even the thickness with the click of a button! Your ice, your way.
8. Euhomy Countertop Ice Maker Machine
We’re heading back over to Euhomy ice makers now for their countertop addition to the clear ice maker market. We’re sure you’ll agree that this is one hefty ice maker that not only looks incredibly professional but is one of the only devices that offers such a lucrative ice-making experience.
Looking incredibly modern and designed to suit any décor, this device is also super-easy to use. Just state how much ice you want and fill the tank up with water until the light shows. Press the button to start, and the practically noiseless device will begin working. It’s that simple!
With an average ice cycle time of eight minutes and a production rate of around 26lbs of ice per day, what more could you need from your ice maker of choice? It’s affordable, is five-star rated by customers all over the world, and it’s easy to use. While it’s not an undercounter ice maker, Euhomy has done it again!
Pros:
+ Comes with a free ice scoop and ice basket
+ Compact, easy to clean, and highly portable. Use wherever you have an outlet!
+ Has a production rate of 26lbs of ice per day and can create an amount of ice with one cycle only lasting eight minutes
+ Practically noiseless and won’t cause any disruptions to your day-to-day activities
Cons:
– Hardly any built-in ice storage capacity built into the device
Why We Like It – To ensure your experience when using the Euhomy Ice Maker is as good as it can be, you’ll find a free one-year warranty that comes with this ice maker, plus all the accessories you’ll ever need. This includes a plastic ice scoop and handy ice bucket for keeping the ice wherever you need it!
9. IKICH Countertop Ice Maker Machine
This is another best-selling ice maker machine in the form of the IKICH countertop machine. The highlight feature of this device is the A+++ energy rating that puts this device right at the top of the best power-friendly ice machines. Even if you want to do your bit to save the planet, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy luxuries like having refreshing drinks.
IKICH prides itself on being one of the most intelligent ice makers available, thanks to the smart indicator feature. From the control panel, just select what size ice you want and how you want it. Add the water, and away you go! Making fresh ice is that simple.
Since IKICH have such a lot of faith in their product, they offer a free two-year warranty with every purchase. This means if you have any problems with your device, the team will constantly be on hand to get you back up and running with minimal inconvenience on your behalf. What’s more, you know you’re safe from ever being left out of pocket!
Pros:
+ Each purchase comes with a free two-year warranty to ensure every problem is covered
+ You can make two sizes of ice, and it includes a free scoop and bucket
+ One of the fastest ice production cycles only lasting six minutes (26lbs per 24-hours)
+ One of the most energy-efficient devices with an A+++ energy rating
Cons:
– No places to store ice after being made (you’ll need to take it out and use it or put it in the freezer)
Why We Like It – While small, this ice maker is surely mighty. The rapid ice production cycle that only lasts six months makes this one of the fastest ice makers on our list. The ice is fast, fresh, chewable, and utterly delicious. There’s no denying that IKICH has raised the bar with this ice maker!
10. EdgeStar IB120SS Ice Maker
To conclude our list of the best ice makers out there, we’re going to end with the EdgeStar best undercounter ice maker. This is a premium-quality, ADA compliant, freestanding ice maker that promises to take your expectations of your ice maker and turn them on their heads.
It’s capable of producing 12 pounds of ice per day. While this may not be the most productive ice maker, this is an easy-to-use machine that includes a 25-foot water pipe to keep it generating ice. There’s no drain line required, ensuring installation is practically effortless.
You can choose what side of the device the door can swing open. The fact the vents are on the front means you’re capable of putting and installing this ice maker anywhere you want without it causing problems. If you’re looking for a hassle-free commercial ice maker, in many cases, this is it!
Pros:
+ This is one of the simplest and easiest stainless steel ice makers to install and use; considered one of the best undercounter devices
+ Can produce and store up to 12 pounds of ice per day with this built-in ice maker
+ ADA compliant and power-efficient
+ Front venting design to make sure you can install this device anywhere you like!
Cons:
– A little expensive compared with other stainless steel models
Why We Like It – The simplicity of these best undercounter ice maker machines is one of the best features. It seems like everything has been made with this in mind. Just choose a location, hinge on the door, plug in the water pipe, and turn it on. That’s it. The stainless steel machine will make ice until it’s full. Then it stops and turns itself on, while still keeping the ice inside frozen. Effortless!
Residential Ice Maker Buyer’s Guide
Now you’ve seen what’s out there on the residential ice maker market; it’s time to choose which device is best for you. Of course, if you’ve seen an ice maker above that fits the bill of what you’re looking for, then scroll back up and enjoy it!
However, if you’re still on the fence, our definitive buying guide on ice makers below should detail everything you need to know when to comes to making the right choice.
Size
The first thing you’ll want to think about is how big your stainless steel ice maker is. In most cases, you’re not going to want a huge commercial unit, since you’ll have nowhere to put it. Since you probably won’t be using the machine all year round, it’s just going to take up space.
Of course, if you have a garage, a bar area, or a large kitchen, getting a larger stainless steel ice maker could be exactly what you’re looking for. That’s fine, but what we’re saying is pay attention to how you’re going to be using your ice maker and buy accordingly.
If you want a little ice maker to make ice cubes alongside you at your next garden party or BBQ, go for a portable option that you can easily store away or keep on your counter while it’s not in use.
Ice Production Speeds
There’s no point getting an ice maker if, when you want to use it, you need to wait hours for any usable ice cubes. Instead, always look at how fast ice cubes can be produced and buy accordingly. Most ice production cycles (especially in our recommended products above) will take between six and 15 minutes per cycle. In most cases, you won’t want anything less.
Built-in Ice Storage Capacity
Sometimes, you’ll be producing ice cubes that you won’t want to use straight away, and instead, you’ll want to store it. Some devices don’t have a storage capacity, so you’ll have to take the ice cubes out and put them in a bag or container in your freezer. Alternatively, you can keep it out in a bucket for people to use. That’s fine if that’s how you’re going to be using your ice maker.
On the other hand, if you want your ice to remain cold and fresh, you’ll want a stainless steel ice maker that can store the ice it makes and keep it there, so it’s available whenever you want it. Always bear this in mind before making a purchase! Typically, best undercounter ice maker machines will come with larger storage capacities for your nugget ice, or whatever form of ice you’re making.
Types of Ice
Having the ability to mix up what kind of ice you have can be a great advantage when it comes to enjoying your drinks your way. Sure, standard cubes are nice, but what about having bullet-shaped cubes that are chewable and dilute quickly? If you want the full experience, you’ll want an ice maker that can adjust to create the exact ice you want.
Power and Energy Efficiency
With older ice production makers, typically older second-hand models, you may find they use a lot of power. Using the machine a lot throughout the summer will send your energy and electricity bill skyrocketing. To avoid high, unexpected energy bills, look for an eco-friendly ice maker that uses power wisely.
Another great feature to look for with ice makers is an automatic shut-off feature. When the undercounter ice maker has run out of water or has filled up its bin with ice, it will automatically turn itself off to stop itself overfilling when the ice bin is full. This is to stop wasting power unnecessarily.
Ease of Use
Who wants to spend money on a stainless steel undercounter ice maker that takes a lifetime to learn how to use it? Of course, there are ice maker machines out there where you can adjust every aspect of your ice. You can even set up timers and delay start, etc. If you want this level of control with your built-in ice maker, go right ahead.
However, learning how to use these undercounter ice makers can be complicated and time-consuming, so it may pay to get a simpler device. These are ice makers that you just plug in, add water and go.
Installation Requirements
Some stainless steel ice makers are effortless to install, whereas others may take a bit of time, so always think about this when it comes to choosing which one is best for you. With basic undercounter ice maker devices, you’ll be able to plug it into an electrical outlet, add however much water you want to use, and then go. Easy peasy.
However, some built-in ice maker devices will require water in-lines to feed the undercounter ice maker water, and some will require drain lines to get rid of excess water. The chances are most homes won’t have the capabilities to offer these connections, unlike a restaurant would. Always check before buying to make sure you’re not wasting your money on an undercounter ice maker you can’t install.
Included Accessories
It’s always handy to look into an undercounter ice maker that comes with everything you need. Be that water pipes, drain lines, ice buckets, and plastic scoops, having these included accessories can be a great way to enhance your experience while making your life easier!
