The best portable ice maker is a great way to party with you. They are very convenient and can be ready in just a few minutes.
In addition, the portable ice maker is efficient, affordable, and does not take up too much space in your kitchen.
We have selected a list of the top ten ice machines available. Our overall favorite is the EUHOMY portable compact ice maker. why?
Well, because it can make the restaurant-style square ice completely clear.
Moreover, it did a lot. Well, maybe not an actual ton, but the output of each batch of ice cubes is almost three times that of other machines on the market.
However, if squares are not your thing, don’t worry. We have served you because that is just the tip of the iceberg.
10 Best Portable Countertop Ice Makers
Euhomy Ice Maker Machine Countertop
If you want a portable ice maker to make a restaurant-style ice maker for your family and dinner parties, EUHOMY’s ice maker is the best choice.
Unlike most other portable ice machines on the market, this model can make square ice cubes that are as crystal clear as most restaurants.
If you don’t like turbid ice and are always looking for the best portable transparent ice maker, then this model will not disappoint.
It can even produce 24 cubes at a time, so after one cycle, you will have enough ice cubes to drink multiple drinks.
Compared to most other models of comparable size and weight, this machine can produce more ice in a day.
There is a button-type digital display control panel that will alert you when the ice bucket is full or needs to be filled with water.
It also allows you to set the timer to have an 8-hour delay so that fresh ice cubes can be prepared anytime, anywhere.
And you don’t have to worry about the melted ice-wasting water-the water can be recycled back into the reservoir. In addition, it even has an automatic cleaning function and an ice scoop.
Pros
- Much less noise than other portable ice machines
- Can make super clear ice without a strange smell
- Manufacturers are good at replacing faulty equipment
Cons
- Ice often sticks together and needs to be broken down
- Sometimes the fall detection cover of the machine freezes and needs to be thawed
hOmeLabs Chill Pill Countertop Ice Maker
The hOmeLabs desktop ice maker is a great choice for any family. It has a stylish silver shape and super smart design, making it one of the best desktop ice machines on the market.
This quiet and energy-saving model means less noise and less wallet and environmental consumption. Every time you choose between small or medium cubes, you can drink perfectly.
According to the selected settings, the hOmeLabs ice maker will complete each batch of ice cubes in 6-8 minutes.
Pros
- The size and shape of the ice cubes are suitable for chewing
- Quickly make ice and fill the basket in less than an hour
- Except for the sound of ice dropping into the basket, it’s very quiet
Cons
- Ice sometimes forms ice cubes
- The bucket does not keep the ice cubes cold, so you need to shovel and restart each batch
Magic Chef 27-Lb. Portable Countertop Ice Maker
Magic Chef offers one of the best countertop ice machines for anyone on a budget. Moreover, this budget model does not require you to compromise on functionality or style.
You can even choose from a variety of colors to ensure it suits your decoration.
If you are worried about lack of space because it is less than a foot wide and less than a foot high, this is one of the best compact ice machines on our list.
This lightweight machine will prepare your first batch of ice cubes in 7 minutes.
The only drawback is that it does not hold a large capacity, so you need to remove ice from the machine more frequently than other equipment.
Pros
- If the small size setting is used, it can freeze within 5 minutes
- The smaller cube fits perfectly in a water bottle
- You only need to clean once every 2-3 weeks to get super fresh ice cubes
Cons
- Drain plugs are difficult to operate and improperly designed
- No matter what size you choose, the first two batches will only produce smaller ice cube sizes
IKICH Portable Ice Maker Machine
Based on more than 5,000 reviews, it has an overall rating of 4.5 stars, making it the highest-rated portable ice maker we have found.
It is also the smallest and lightest machine among all the machines we have listed, making it an ideal companion for boat rides or RVs.
The durable ABS housing has a stainless steel appearance, which can be integrated with most kitchen appliances, but is easier to clean.
The machine also has an oversized observation window, which allows you to more easily check how many ice cubes have been prepared.
The control panel is easy to use and will light up to notify you when your basket is full or when you need to add water.
IKICH firmly believes in their products and enjoys a high reputation for customer service-they are here to prove this with a warranty of more than 2 years.
Pros
- Ice out very clearly
- The melted ice drops return directly to the reservoir
- The ice basket has handles on both sides for easy carrying
Cons
- Both ice cubes are very small
- Filling the water tank to the maximum line will cause ice cubes to fall into the water
GE Profile Opal | Countertop Nugget Ice Maker
The GE Profile Opal Nugget ice machine is one of the best portable ice machines on the market. It is also one of the few countertop models for making chewable ice blocks.
The price of Opal Nugget is higher than the other prices on our list and offers a large number of features that are only available on this premium ice maker.
One of the coolest features of this machine is that you can use the free GE Profile Opal app to set a schedule from your phone or tablet and operate the ice machine via Bluetooth.
Its intuitive and portable design makes the Opal Nugget ice maker easy to set up, move and operate. There is a large 3-pound freezer with a front window to keep things cool and easy to see.
If you start to run out of ice cubes, the unit will turn on again to keep the freezer full. Any ice that melts will circulate back to the reservoir.
GE Profile Opal Nugget is expensive and has a high budget, but it is well known for its quality.
Pros
- The night light is a useful bonus feature, it looks cool
- It is helpful to be able to install a water filter in the ice maker
- A large water storage tank saves you from having to add water frequently
Cons
- The machine is heavy
- Some commenters have questions about very noisy machines
NewAir Portable Ice Maker 50 lb.
The NewAir portable ice maker is the best portable ice maker for family gatherings because it can produce up to 50 pounds of ice cubes per day.
With its smart design and intuitive display, NewAir is rated as one of the best portable ice machines available.
High-quality BPA-free components and super powerful compressors mean you no longer need to buy ice cubes in the store.
There is even an 18-hour timer, automatic shutdown function, and built-in overflow protection function to provide you with safety and convenience.
You can choose from three ice cube sizes, and prepare a new batch of ice cubes every 6 minutes. Your party will be a huge hit.
Although NewAir tends to produce quality products, we have noticed some quality control issues in the comments.
For most people, this is really a great machine, but getting a warranty may be a good idea.
Pros
- Ideal for hosting multiple guests
- The self-cleaning function makes maintenance easier
- The bin is very insulated, so the ice will not melt immediately
Cons
- The control panel may be a bit temperamental
- Much more expensive than other portable ice machines
Igloo ICEB26HNAQ Automatic Self-Cleaning Portable Electric Countertop Ice Maker Machine
The Igloo brand is known for keeping it cool, but how do they make it cool? Well, it seems that they created one of the best portable ice machines on the market.
The Igloo ice machine has a variety of interesting colors for you to choose from and is equipped with a convenient handle, which feels like a device that wraps accessories and equipment together.
This model is the smallest and lightest model, and can still provide a choice of large and small ice cubes in just 7 minutes.
For portable ice machines, this ice machine is small enough to not consume a lot of energy, so it is one of the best RV ice machines you can find. Have you heard of luxury tents?
Why not bring the charm of modern luxury on your next trip to the wilderness?
This is another machine, and it seems that there are some problems in quality control, but most of the reviews are satisfactory.
We recommend that you make sure to test the ice machine before the return window closes to make sure you get the best.
Pros
- It only consumes about 107 watts
- It does not produce clear ice cubes, but the white ice cubes produced are of high quality
- The small size and handle make it easy to carry around on vacation
Cons
- Sometimes, ice blocks the sensor, making it think that the trash can is full if there is none
- The bright LED light on the control panel makes it difficult to see the label on the button
BLACK+DECKER BIMY126S 26-lb Capacity Stainless Steel Ice Maker
The Black + Decker portable ice maker is a beautiful product with outstanding features. This model has a sleek stainless steel housing and an easy-to-use control panel display.
It is one of the best portable ice machines this year.
It can produce more than 26 pounds of ice per day and can hold nearly 2 pounds of ice in a large storage bucket.
The unique electronic display allows you to precisely control the time and water level while providing various indicators for correct maintenance.
You can choose from three sizes of ice cubes, which makes the B+D portable ice maker ideal for family use, parties, travel, etc.
Pros
- Easy to drain and fill
- Xiaobing is easy to chew
- The medium-sized cube fits perfectly with the refrigerator’s indoor dispenser
Cons
- Make an annoying beep
- Compared with similar ice machines, ice making takes longer
COSTWAY 2 in 1 Countertop Ice Maker
Sometimes ice alone is not enough. COSTWAY has become the best countertop ice maker and water dispenser with its 2-in-1 model.
If you don’t have to compromise on portability or lose more counter space, why not integrate the water dispenser and ice maker into one?
In addition to distributing cold water and ice, the machine is also equipped with a liquid crystal display panel, a delay timer, and you can choose between large and small ice cubes.
It can also make 36 pounds of ice a day, which is about 10 pounds higher than a typical desktop ice maker.
Pros
- It makes ice batches quickly
- Any melted ice will return to the water tank
- With a water dispenser, you can easily drink more water
Cons
- Machine noisy
- The ice storage box and the water storage box are a bit small
Frigidaire EFIC103 Ice Maker Machine
The Frigidaire EFIC103 ice maker countertop model is very suitable for kitchens of all sizes.
In addition, as an advanced appliance manufacturer, you can expect excellent durability and efficiency throughout the life of the ice maker.
The ice maker can create three sizes of ice cubes for any occasion-choose between small, medium, and large.
A fairly large ice bucket can hold more than 2 pounds of ice, and the machine can produce more than 26 pounds of cubes per day.
The stainless steel surface adds durability and has an elegant appearance that matches most kitchen decorations.
Pros
- The reservoir is huge
- For families where no one wants the same thing, having three sizes of ice cubes is perfect
- This ice maker can hold more ice than most machines-you don’t have to empty the bin every half an hour
Cons
- Ice cubes sometimes freeze into a large block and will not fall into the freezer
- Sensors that detect when the trash can is full or when the machine needs water are not always accurate
What to look for in the best portable ice maker
In addition to price, there are a few other things to keep in mind when buying the best desktop ice maker.
1. Types of ice
There are several different types of ice. These are the most common of portable ice machines:
- Bullet ice: This type of ice is the most common type produced by portable ice machines. As the name suggests, the shape resembles a bullet. The flat end of the bullet shape is usually open to the hollow center. Since it is not always consistent, this type of ice is easier to chew on the mixer, melts faster and easier than many other types of ice.
- Nugget ice: Lump ice is another name for granular, small pebble, or sonic ice. It is similar to crushed ice, but it is made from ice cubes crushed into thin slices. It melts slower than crushed ice. Because it is softer than ordinary ice, it can dilute beverages. This ice is a favorite among chewers and works well in mixed drinks and soft drinks. One thing to note when you consider buying block ice machines is that these machines are much more expensive than other models.
- Cube ice cube: This type of ice cube, also called dice ice cube, is a square ice cube that often appears in restaurants. Cube ice cubes are usually transparent, solid, slowly melting, and their thickness varies between full cubes or half cubes. Cube ice making is probably the most versatile ice-making style to meet various needs.
2. Portability and size
If you just plan to leave the ice machine on the counter, you just need to make sure it fits. Please make sure to leave enough space around it for the condenser to work properly.
If the ice machine is to be moved frequently, the weight and size of the equipment should be given priority.
3. Speed
Of course, the faster the better, but most of these machines will prepare the first batch of ice cubes in less than 20 minutes.
When considering speed, a more critical factor to consider is how many cubes can be made per cycle machine and whether it has a timer function that can start everything before you need to make ice.
4. Ice production
The portable ice maker can only produce as much ice due to its size limitation.
However, when considering a purchase, there are two ice-making quantities to consider: the amount of ice the machine produces in each batch and the amount that can be made in a day.
An ordinary portable model can make about 9 pieces of ice per batch and about 26 pounds per day.
However, you can find in our list machines that can make up to twenty-four ice cubes at a time, and models that can produce up to 50 pounds of ice cubes in a day.
If you are looking for an ice maker, and the function of the ice maker is more than that, then you may need to look for an ice maker that is lighter than a benchtop stove.
5. Capacity
Although most portable ice machines are not used to store ice cubes, the number of ice cubes a machine can hold at a time can change the ease of operation.
Essentially, the smaller the capacity, the more often you need to empty the freezer. In the case where most machines produce ice at a fairly fast rate, this can become tedious if the storage bin is small.
6. Features
After determining your needs, you may need the ice maker to provide some other functions. Many models have additional features, such as automatic timer, self-cleaning function, programmable timer, water circulation system, etc. Please be sure to check the product specifications of the model you are interested in to understand the products it offers.
How does the portable ice maker work?
Now that we have learned about the best portable ice machines, let’s take a look at how they actually work.
Portable ice machines are relatively simple and straightforward, and they work very similar to ice machines in refrigerators and freezers.
Pump water into the ice tray in the portable ice maker. Through the refrigeration process, the condenser and the fan work together to cool the inner cavity. Once the water has solidified, the excess heat released by the compressor will be released, and the cube can be used just by sliding it into the trash can.
The great thing is that most portable ice machines do not require direct water supply. Just pour in water and you can start. The only thing you need is a standard 115v plug for the ice machine. Since the unique design of the portable ice machine makes it fast and efficient, you should get the first batch of ice machines in a few minutes! Pour ice cubes directly into the drink or fill a small box to start business.
Advantages of portable ice maker
There are many reasons to consider using portable ice machines in homes or outdoor areas. From ease of use to speed and reliability, they are an excellent investment.
Find out some reasons why you need a portable ice maker in your life:
portable. You guessed it! One of the biggest reasons to consider using a portable ice maker is its incredible versatility. You can use it on a camping trip, when attending a gathering of friends, or you can put it on the counter. Portability means you can choose.
quickly. The portable ice maker works very quickly. Most models only take a few minutes per batch, so you can get a full ice storage box in a short time.
small. In general, the portable ice maker is small and does not take up much storage space. This means you can put it under the kitchen counter, or you can pick it up and carry it easily.
fair price. One of the best things about ice machines is that they are affordable. Many beginner models start at more than $100, which is all you need to get started.
Efficient. The portable ice maker is extremely efficient. Most models can produce 26 pounds of ice per day. This will allow you to spend a hand in the market, not as easy as opening a machine.
How to clean a portable ice maker
We have seen how a portable ice maker works and the many benefits of owning an ice maker. However, once the computer is up and running, you need to consider how to properly maintain it.
Cleaning the portable ice machine regularly is an important habit to develop. Not only will your machine last longer, but the icing and overall efficiency will be greatly improved.
Fortunately, cleaning the ice machine couldn’t be easier. Follow the simple steps below to get a perfect cube every time.
Cleaning steps
Remove the internal ice tray
Clean the inside with organic cleaner
Wipe the exterior with soap and warm water
Wipe the inside and outside of the machine with a soft cloth
Reassemble the machine and run the trial cycle
enjoy!