The best ice makers make it easier to keep drinks cold without relying on slow freezer trays or frequent trips to the store. This roundup covers compact countertop models, chewable nugget ice makers, an under-counter unit, and higher-capacity machines for entertaining or heavier use.
We compare output, speed, storage, cleaning features, portability, and installation requirements so you can choose an ice maker that fits your space and daily routine.
Best 10 Ice Makers Picks for 2026
Best Portable Nugget Pick
EUHOMY Countertop Nugget Ice Maker
- Nugget ice in about six minutes
- Makes up to 34 pounds per day
- Portable, quiet, and self-cleaning
Best For: Portable chewable ice at home, parties, or in an RV
Best Built-In Capacity
COTLIN Drainless Under-Counter Ice Maker
- Makes up to 42 pounds per day
- Stores 22 pounds of crescent ice
- Drainless under-counter installation
Best For: High-volume home bars and under-counter setups
Best Self-Cleaning Nugget Model
- Makes up to 35 pounds per day
- Dual-pump 15-minute cleaning cycle
- Includes four citric acid cleaner packs
Best For: Frequent nugget-ice users focused on maintenance
Best Traditional Countertop Pick
Frigidaire 26-Lb Portable Ice Maker
- Makes 26 pounds of ice per day
- Offers two bullet-cube sizes
- Includes drain plug and digital controls
Best For: Everyday standard ice in kitchens, offices, or dorms
Best Nugget Ice Maker
EUHOMY 44-Lb Countertop Nugget Ice Maker
- Soft nugget ice ready in about 7–10 minutes
- Produces up to 44 pounds in 24 hours
- One-touch self-cleaning and compact design
Best For: Home users who want chewable nugget ice
Best Portable Ice Maker
Antarctic Star 26-Lb Countertop Ice Maker
- Makes bullet ice in about six minutes
- Compact, handle-equipped design for travel
- Quiet operation below 40 dB
Best For: RV trips, camping, tailgates, and small households
Best Commercial Ice Maker
EUHOMY 100-Lb Stainless Steel Ice Maker
- Produces up to 100 pounds of ice daily
- Stores 33 pounds in its built-in bin
- LCD controls and ETL commercial certification
Best For: Bars, cafés, restaurants, and high-volume home use
Compact Classic
- Makes nine cubes in about five to six minutes
- Produces up to 26 pounds per day
- Alerts for a full basket or low water
Best For: Small kitchens and straightforward everyday ice-making
High-Capacity Nugget Pick
SenCre NIM600S Nugget Ice Maker
- Produces up to 60 pounds of nugget ice daily
- Uses dual water tanks and a 4.84-pound basket
- Runs at a listed 40 dB with self-cleaning
Best For: Parties and households that prefer chewable nugget ice
Portable Everyday Value
EUHOMY IM001-B Portable Ice Maker
- Makes bullet ice in about six minutes
- Produces up to 26 pounds per day
- Includes a handle and automatic cleaning cycle
Best For: RVs, dorms, camping, and compact home kitchens
Best Portable Nugget Pick – EUHOMY Countertop Nugget Ice Maker
If you want chewable ice without committing to a built-in appliance, this EUHOMY countertop nugget ice maker is a practical option for kitchens, parties, RVs, and camping. It produces a batch in about six minutes and can make up to 34 pounds per day.
Best For: Households and hosts who want portable, soft nugget ice for iced coffee, cocktails, smoothies, and everyday drinks.
Pros:
- Produces nugget ice in as little as six minutes, with up to 34 pounds per day.
- Built-in handle, removable basket, and compact countertop footprint improve portability.
- One-touch self-cleaning and operation under 45 dB simplify regular use.
Cons:
- The 1.8-pound basket may require frequent emptying during larger gatherings.
- It uses a water tank, so ongoing refilling is part of countertop operation.
This is a well-rounded choice among portable ice makers if texture and mobility matter most. The viewing window, water and ice-full alerts, and included scoop make it especially convenient for everyday use.
Best Built-In Capacity – COTLIN Drainless Under-Counter Ice Maker
For a more permanent ice setup, this COTLIN under-counter ice maker combines a stainless steel cabinet with a 22-pound storage bin and production of up to 42 pounds per day. Its drainless design is intended to simplify installation where a conventional drain connection is inconvenient.
Best For: Kitchens, home bars, and light commercial spaces that need a higher-capacity ice maker with crescent-shaped cubes and under-counter placement.
Pros:
- Produces up to 42 pounds of crescent ice per day and stores 22 pounds.
- Drainless design avoids installing a drainage pipe; users connect the water supply and power cord.
- Reversible door, adjustable feet, and ETL certification support flexible installation and operation.
Cons:
- At 62 pounds, it is substantially less portable than countertop ice makers.
- Its under-counter dimensions require more dedicated space and installation planning.
This model makes the most sense when you need sustained ice production and a built-in look rather than portability. The stainless-steel construction and large bin are useful for frequent entertaining, while the no-drain design can reduce installation complexity.
Best Self-Cleaning Nugget Model – EUHOMY 2026 Nugget Ice Maker
This upgraded EUHOMY ice maker is designed for people who prioritize soft, crunchy nugget ice and easier maintenance. It starts producing ice in roughly five to seven minutes, makes up to 35 pounds per day, and includes a dual-pump cleaning system with citric acid cleaner.
Best For: Ice enthusiasts who want chewable pellet ice, reduced scale buildup, and a compact machine for home bars, offices, or parties.
Pros:
- Produces nugget ice in about five to seven minutes and up to 35 pounds per day.
- Dual-pump self-cleaning cycle, detachable lid, and four cleaner packs support maintenance.
- Runs under 45 dB and includes a 1.8-pound insulated basket with a scoop holder.
Cons:
- The 1.1-liter reservoir may still require refilling during heavy use.
- After descaling, the first one or two batches should be discarded as directed.
With its cleaning-focused design and included maintenance supplies, this is a strong pick for frequent nugget-ice users. The compact dimensions also help it fit beneath standard kitchen cabinets without taking over the counter.
Best Traditional Countertop Pick – Frigidaire 26-Lb Portable Ice Maker
Frigidaire 26 Lbs per Day Portable Compact Maker, Ice Making Machine, Stainless, Medium
Check Price On AmazonThis Frigidaire portable ice maker offers a straightforward way to keep standard bullet-shaped cubes available without installing a full-size appliance. It produces nine cubes about every seven minutes, offers two ice sizes, and makes up to 26 pounds per day.
Best For: Kitchens, offices, dorms, and bars that need a familiar countertop ice maker for everyday drinks and occasional hosting.
Pros:
- Produces up to 26 pounds of ice per day with two selectable cube sizes.
- The 2.1-quart water tank supports longer operation between refills.
- Transparent window, LED controls, drain plug, and included scoop make operation practical.
Cons:
- Its 1.5-pound basket is smaller than the storage capacity of the built-in COTLIN model.
- It makes bullet-shaped cubes rather than chewable nugget ice.
This is a sensible choice if you prefer standard ice and simple controls over specialty nugget texture. Its stainless design, compact footprint, and drain plug make it a convenient everyday appliance for smaller spaces.
Best Nugget Ice Maker – EUHOMY 44-Lb Countertop Nugget Ice Maker
If you want soft, chewable ice at home, this EUHOMY countertop ice maker is built around convenience. It produces nugget-style ice in about 7–10 minutes and can make up to 44 pounds in 24 hours, while its compact footprint suits kitchens, offices, and entertaining areas.
Best For: Home users who prefer chewable nugget ice and want a high daily production capacity in a compact countertop machine.
Pros:
- Produces soft, crunchy nugget ice in approximately 7–10 minutes.
- Offers up to 44 pounds of ice production per day.
- Includes one-touch controls, interior lighting, and a 20-minute self-cleaning cycle.
- Compact 13.9-by-9.85-by-14.95-inch design includes a scoop and basket.
Cons:
- Its 23.2-pound weight makes it less convenient to move frequently.
- The supplied notes do not specify a noise rating.
Choose this model if chewable nugget ice matters more than a traditional cube shape. Its strong daily output and automatic cleaning make it a practical countertop option for regular home use and gatherings.
Best Portable Ice Maker – Antarctic Star 26-Lb Countertop Ice Maker
This Antarctic Star countertop ice maker is a compact choice for quick batches of bullet ice. It starts making ice in about six minutes, produces up to 26 pounds per day, and is designed for portable use in settings such as RVs, tailgates, and beach areas.
Best For: Travelers, hosts, and small households seeking a compact, quiet ice maker for drinks and outdoor setups.
Pros:
- Begins producing bullet ice in approximately six minutes.
- Produces up to 26 pounds of ice per day and offers two ice sizes.
- Compact dimensions and a portable handle suit RVs, camping, and tailgating.
- Operates below 40 dB and includes a self-cleaning function.
Cons:
- Its 26-pound daily capacity is lower than larger home and commercial models.
- The plastic construction may feel less substantial than stainless-steel alternatives.
This model makes sense when portability, speed, and quiet operation are priorities. Its smaller output is best suited to personal use and moderate gatherings rather than heavy-duty demand.
Best Commercial Ice Maker – EUHOMY 100-Lb Stainless Steel Ice Maker
For high-volume ice production, this EUHOMY commercial ice maker delivers up to 100 pounds per 24 hours and stores 33 pounds in its built-in bin. Its stainless-steel construction, LCD controls, and commercial-use certification make it suited to busy homes, bars, cafés, restaurants, and other demanding settings.
Best For: Commercial and large-scale home use where high output, substantial storage, and adjustable cube thickness are important.
Pros:
- Produces up to 100 pounds of ice per day, with 45 cubes per 10–20-minute cycle.
- Built-in bin stores up to 33 pounds and includes automatic overflow prevention.
- LCD controls allow monitoring and adjustment of ice-making time.
- ETL certified for household and commercial applications and includes automatic cleaning.
Cons:
- Requires gravity drainage and a suitable floor drain or gravity outlet.
- No pump is included.
- At 66.6 pounds and over 31 inches tall, it is not a portable countertop unit.
This is the strongest fit for sustained demand rather than occasional use. Before buying, confirm the installation area has the required gravity drainage and allow the machine to stand upright for at least 24 hours before operation.
Compact Classic – Frigidaire EFIC128AMZBLK
If you need straightforward ice makers for a kitchen counter, the Frigidaire EFIC128AMZBLK balances a compact footprint with dependable daily output. It makes nine cubes in about five to six minutes and can produce up to 26 pounds in 24 hours. Keep in mind that it makes ice but does not keep it frozen, so transfer unused ice to your freezer.
Best For: Small kitchens, occasional entertaining, and users who want a simple countertop ice maker with a viewing window.
Pros:
- Produces nine ice cubes every five to six minutes.
- Offers up to 26 pounds of ice production per day.
- Compact design measures approximately 13 x 11 x 12.5 inches and includes a transparent window.
- Alerts you when the basket is full or water is low.
Cons:
- Ice melts if it remains in the machine because the unit is not a freezer.
- Check the listed dimensions carefully, as the detailed measurements vary from the compact-size description.
This Frigidaire is a practical pick when you value easy operation and modest counter space requirements over specialized ice styles or long-term ice storage.
High-Capacity Nugget Pick – SenCre NIM600S Nugget Ice Maker
Among countertop ice makers, the SenCre NIM600S stands out for high output and soft, chewable nugget ice. Its dual-tank setup and 60-pound daily capacity suit gatherings and households that use a lot of ice, while the UV-C purification claim in the product title is complemented by a built-in sediment pre-filter. The insulated basket is designed to slow melting, but this is still an ice maker rather than a freezer.
Best For: Parties, high-demand households, and anyone who prefers chewable nugget ice for drinks.
Pros:
- Produces up to 60 pounds of nugget ice per day.
- Includes 3-liter internal and 3.8-liter external water tanks for fewer refills.
- Features a 4.84-pound basket, pre-filter, self-cleaning function, and approximately 40 dB operation.
- Double-layer insulation is designed to slow melting and preserve texture.
Cons:
- Larger footprint than many compact countertop ice makers.
- The basket stores 4.84 pounds, considerably less than the stated daily production capacity.
- Additional filtration upgrades may require separately purchased filters.
If nugget texture and maximum output matter more than minimizing size, this model offers a feature-rich option for frequent ice use and entertaining.
Portable Everyday Value – EUHOMY IM001-B Portable Ice Maker
The EUHOMY IM001-B is one of the more travel-friendly ice makers for counters, RVs, dorms, and camping setups. It produces its first batch of bullet-shaped ice in about six minutes, makes up to 26 pounds per day, and includes a handle for easier carrying. Its automatic cleaning cycle and simple controls add convenience for routine use.
Best For: Portable use in kitchens, RVs, dorms, camping areas, and small parties.
Pros:
- Produces nine bullet-shaped cubes in approximately six minutes.
- Offers up to 26 pounds of ice per day with a 1.3-pound basket capacity.
- Compact 11.42 x 8.74 x 11.57-inch design weighs about 12.9 pounds and includes a handle.
- Includes one-touch self-cleaning, low-water and full-basket alerts, and listed noise below 45 dB.
Cons:
- The relatively small basket requires regular emptying during high-use periods.
- Its 170-watt rating is higher than some similarly sized countertop models.
- Like other portable ice makers, it does not replace a freezer for storing ice.
This EUHOMY model is a sensible choice when portability and easy maintenance are priorities, especially if you want bullet ice without committing to a larger, higher-capacity appliance.
How We Picked These Ice Makers
We selected models across the main categories shoppers consider: portable countertop machines, nugget Ice Makers, under-counter units, and high-output commercial-style machines. We focused on advertised production capacity, first-batch speed, ice style, storage design, controls, cleaning features, and the practical demands of installation.
Because real-world output varies with room temperature, water temperature, ventilation, and usage, treat stated pounds-per-day figures as a comparison point rather than a guarantee. A machine’s bin capacity and recovery time can matter just as much as its maximum daily output.
Quick Comparison
- Best for chewable ice: Nugget-style machines produce soft, textured ice suited to sodas, cocktails, and everyday drinks.
- Best for portability: Compact countertop models with handles are easier to move, store, and use in multiple rooms.
- Best for built-in use: The drainless under-counter model is designed for a more permanent setup and larger storage needs.
- Best for high demand: Commercial-style units with substantially higher daily output are better for parties, offices, and frequent entertaining.
- Best for simple operation: Look for automatic shutoff, clear water and ice indicators, removable baskets, and self-cleaning programs.
Key Buying Factors for Ice Makers
Ice Type and Texture
Choose nugget or “sonic” ice if you prefer soft, chewable pieces that absorb flavor. Traditional bullet-shaped ice is generally better for straightforward chilling and may suit users who prioritize compact appliances and lower cost.
Production Speed and Capacity
Fast first-batch claims are useful when you need ice immediately, but also check the machine’s 24-hour production rating and storage-bin size. A high daily rating does not mean the bin holds that much at once, so frequent use may require transferring or bagging ice.
Size, Ventilation, and Drainage
Measure your counter or cabinet opening before buying, allowing room for ventilation and access to the controls. Countertop models usually need periodic water replacement and may require manual draining. An under-counter unit can offer a cleaner installation but typically demands more planning.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Automatic cleaning helps simplify routine care, but it does not eliminate it. Empty and dry the machine as directed, clean removable parts, and follow the manufacturer’s guidance for descaling and water quality.
Noise and Convenience Features
Ice Makers use compressors, pumps, and fans, so some operating noise is normal. Handles, transparent covers, timers, water-level alerts, auto shutoff, and UV-C or filtration claims can improve convenience, but they should complement—not replace—regular cleaning.
Who Should Buy Which Ice Makers?
Choose a compact countertop model for apartments, home bars, offices, RVs, or occasional entertaining. Choose a nugget ice maker if texture is your top priority. Choose an under-counter machine when you want a more permanent appliance with integrated storage. Choose a high-output commercial-style unit for large gatherings or frequent demand, provided you have adequate space, ventilation, and a suitable power setup.