</p><p>Ahead, shop the six best countertop makers for crafting every type of chilled drink you’ve been longing for this summer. </p><h3 class=”body-h3″>How We Picked These Products </h3><figure style=”box-sizing: inherit; display: block; margin: 0px 0px 1em; outline: none !important; position: relative; padding: 0px; color: rgb(68, 73, 80); font-family: Meta, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);”><img src=”https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/images/22-delish-ghibadge-320×125-1647468552.jpg” alt=”Good House Keeping Institute Lab Tested Badge” data-image=”nzq0p6corc5q” title=”Good House Keeping Institute Lab Tested Badge”><span id=”selection-marker-start” class=”redactor-selection-marker”></span><span id=”selection-marker-end” class=”redactor-selection-marker”></span></figure><p><br>Each of these countertop ice makers has high ratings and great reviews. We looked for units that are efficient, reliable, and produce high-quality ice. Plus, we got insight from our friends at the Good Housekeeping Institute. Their team of on-staff experts—which includes all types: engineers! data analysts! registered dietitians!—rigorously put everyday products to the test (and then more and more tests) in their New York City-based labs to determine which ones you can trust.</p><p>The Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Tech experts conducted a side-by-side test of five <a href=”https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/appliances/g43508128/best-nugget-ice-makers/” target=”_blank”>nugget ice makers</a>. They also asked a group of 10 consumer testers to see how they performed in their home, based on factors like ease of use, how quickly ice melted, and how much ice each nugget ice machine produced. After pouring over customer reviews, assessing the team’s findings, and discussing all things countertop ice makers with Bleyer, we’ve determined that these are the best countertop ice machines you can buy in 2023.</p>” />
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1
Best Overall Countertop Ice Maker
Silonn Countertop Ice Maker
1
Best Overall Countertop Ice Maker
Silonn Countertop Ice Maker
Now 18% Off
Pros
- Self-cleaning function
- Transparent lid
Cons
- Ice doesn’t stay frozen long
The Silonn Countertop Ice Maker is prized for making two sizes of bullet-shaped ice cubes. The small cubes are great for keeping food fresh and chilled, while the larger ones are ideal for keeping drinks cold.
This machine is also designed to operate easily and quietly. All you have to do is fill the ice maker with water, hit the “on” button, and pick the size of ice cubes. From there, the ice maker does all the heavy lifting! With a 35dB noise level, it should sound like a working refrigerator when making ice. And if the water is low, an indicator light will come on to notify you. Once the maker is full of ice, a sensor automatically goes off that keeps it from making more. For maintenance, simply press the on/off button for five seconds to allow the ice maker to self-clean.
“After adding water, it takes roughly seven minutes for the ice cubes to be complete,” one reviewer writes. “I love how you have the option to select small or large size ice cubes. [The] product is quiet and after running, gives you an indication that the ice is full or water needs to be added.”
- Ice shape: Bullet
- Daily production (per the manufacturer): 26 pounds
- Dimensions: 12.3 x 8.7 x 12.5 inches
- Weight: 15.2 pounds
- Voltage: 115
2
Best Nugget Ice Maker
GE Profile Opal Countertop Nugget Ice Maker with Side Tank
2
Best Nugget Ice Maker
GE Profile Opal Countertop Nugget Ice Maker with Side Tank
Now 18% Off
While it may be pricey, the GE Profile Opal Countertop Nugget Ice Maker makes some great ice, according to Good Housekeeping Institute testers. It produces nugget ice, which is made from compacted ice flakes. The smart machine makes more ice with water from the side tank when it detects that it’s low.
Bleyer says that this ice maker made the “largest” and “most uniformly-shaped nugget ice” during testing. She notes that it was “harder to crunch” than in other models, “but still easier than a full-sized ice cube.”
While the ice maker’s manual notes that ice can be made in 20 minutes, the team noticed during testing that the maker only made few ice cubes at that point. Overall, they say that it takes about four hours to fill with ice.
Still, Bleyer says this stainless steel machine is a “great pick for parties” or people who don’t want to refill their machine often. It has a huge ice bin (3.75 pounds) and water tank capacity (23 cups).
Maintain this unit by vacuuming the vent on the left side of the machine. This helps remove dust or debris.
- Ice shape: Nugget
- Daily production (per the manufacturer): 24 pounds
- Dimensions: 15.5 x 14.25 x 17.25 inches (plus side tank)
- Weight: 47 pounds
- Voltage: 120
3
Best Basic Countertop Ice Maker
Frigidaire Compact Ice Maker
3
Best Basic Countertop Ice Maker
Frigidaire Compact Ice Maker
Pros
- Transparent lid
- Two sizes of ice cubes
Cons
- No self-cleaning function
The Frigidaire Compact Ice Maker is built to drop nine cubes of ice from its “Evaporator Fingers” in just seven to 15 minutes. It has a compressor cooling system in addition to indicators that will alert you when the machine is full and when it’s low on water. You can also keep an eye on the amount of ice in the basket through its convenient overhead viewing window.
The air outlet allows the machine to run continuously. To clean the ice maker, remove the plug underneath the front of the machine to drain and rinse.
“This thing is small, pretty quiet, and makes ice quickly and regularly,” one reviewer writes. “Now my whole family is grabbing this ice, putting it in a bowl, and snacking on it.”
- Ice shape: Bullet
- Daily production (per the manufacturer): 26 pounds
- Dimensions: 15 x 11 x 14.5 inches
- Weight: 17.7 pounds
- Voltage: 120
4
Best Splurge Countertop Ice Maker
NewAir Portable Ice Maker
4
Best Splurge Countertop Ice Maker
NewAir Portable Ice Maker
Now 19% Off
Pros
- Self-cleaning function
- Programmable timer
- Three sizes of ice
Cons
- Heavy
The NewAir Portable Ice Maker is a high-end option, due to its fancy features. It’s crafted to produce a whopping 50 pounds of ice per day and lets you choose from three different cube sizes (small, medium, and large).
After adding water to the reservoir, you can use the 18-hour timer to program when you want your ice ready. It also has ultra-insulation to help keep the ice cold and a removable bin for transporting ice. If you do end up having a few melted ice cubes left in the machine, the water will drain back into the machine and recycle into the next ice-making cycle.
Use the self-cleaning function to maintain this device. Add equal parts water and vinegar to the tank, and the ice maker will take care of the rest! From there, you can also remove the drain filter and rubber drain plug and wipe down the interior with a sponge or cloth.
“What I liked most was the fact that I didn’t have to babysit this ice maker,” one reviewer says. “I left the room for about 10 minutes, and when I arrived, the ice filled the basket. The instructions were very clear and precise. The unit was easy to operate and very efficient.”
You can also use this machine in or outside of your home. “The best thing is that I tried it and believe it is a wise investment, as it is portable and can be used almost anywhere there is an electrical outlet, even at some parks,” the reviewer adds.
- Ice shape: Bullet
- Daily production (per the manufacturer): 50 pounds
- Dimensions: 14 x 16.9 x 16.75 inches
- Weight: 31.97 pounds
- Voltage: 120
5
Best Compact Countertop Ice Maker
AGLUCKY Countertop Ice Maker Machine
5
Best Compact Countertop Ice Maker
AGLUCKY Countertop Ice Maker Machine
Pros
- Ice scoop included
- Transparent lid
Cons
- No self-cleaning function
Don’t let its size fool you. In just six to eight minutes, you’ll get nine bullet-shaped ice cubes with the small-scale AGLUCKY Countertop Ice Maker. The compact machine is designed to fit on your counter without compromising space. Plus, its slender build makes it easy to carry from point A to point B.
This countertop ice maker is equipped with a reportedly quick and quiet cooling system, too. This will allow you to save energy, as well as keep your environment peaceful with its 40dB noise level.
When setting it up, make sure to clean the ice maker machine and keep it in an upright position for 24 hours. Use the self-cleaning function once a week for routine maintenance.
“This unit is awesome, works great,” says one reviewer. “Makes plenty of ice, runs very quiet and takes up minimal counter space.”
- Ice shape: Bullet
- Daily production (per the manufacturer): 26 pounds
- Dimensions: 8.7 x 12.3 x 12.6 inches
- Weight: 17.1 pounds
- Voltage: 110
6
Best Splurge Runner-Up Countertop Ice Maker
Euhomy Countertop Ice Maker Machine
6
Best Splurge Runner-Up Countertop Ice Maker
Euhomy Countertop Ice Maker Machine
Now 12% Off
Pros
- 8-hour delay timer
- Three sizes of ice cubes
- Large daily output
Cons
- Ice melts quickly
The Euhomy Countertop Ice Maker Machine should churn out up to 40 pounds of ice per day in three different sizes. With an eight-hour delay timer, you can program when you want your machine to start production after adding water.
The removable ice basket holds up to 2.2 pounds of ice. If it melts before you remove it, the water recycling system will filter water back through the system to be made into ice again.
To maintain the machine, press the ice maker’s “clean” button for more than three seconds to activate the “self-cleaning program.” The team behind this maker also recommends using this feature before making the first ice.
“I’ve been looking at ice makers for a while, and I am so happy I bought this ice maker,” one customer raves. “It is so quiet and makes tiny nugget ice.”
- Ice shape: Nugget
- Daily production (per the manufacturer): 40 pounds
- Dimensions: 14.1 x 11 x 13.7 inches
- Weight: 40.3 pounds
- Voltage: 110
How do standard countertop ice makers work?
Bleyer notes that these small appliances function like standard refrigerator ice makers. “Water gets filled into an internal chilled tray, thanks to a water pump in the system,” she explains. “The water runs over the tray multiple times, building layer after layer of ice until it’s filled to the top of the tray.” After the tray is full, the ice is dumped in the ice bin.
To operate a standard countertop ice maker, plug it in, run a clean cycle through the tubing system, then add fresh water. From there, press start to begin the ice cycle, Bleyer says.
How do nugget ice makers work?
Nugget ice makers and standard machines differ based on how water moves through the system and how ice is formed. “Water gets pumped from the nugget ice maker’s water tank into a cold metal cylinder that’s located in the machine’s interior,” says Bleyer. “Ice then forms on the walls of the cylinder, and a spinning auger scrapes it off as ice chips.” She explains that these ice chips are compressed and pushed through small holes. From there, a metal cone breaks the ice, dumping nugget-shaped ice cubes into the attached bin.
Thanks to this built-in technology, the nugget ice maker “can start producing ice cubes in as little as 20 minutes,” says Bleyer.
Can you leave a countertop ice maker on all the time?
Yes, in fact, you should. You’ll need to leave your countertop ice maker on to prevent the ice from melting. “Just like your refrigerator needs to remain plugged in, so does your ice maker,” says Bleyer.
While she explains that some ice makers have eco-friendly modes that help reduce energy consumption, the machine will still temporarily shut off when not in use. The ice then melts and gets recycled to make new ice when the machine is on.
Are countertop ice makers noisy?
Countertop ice makers typically sound like a functioning refrigerator or a bit louder. “It’s a noise that you might get used to, but since it’s constantly on, it’s best to store in a place that wouldn’t interrupt you while sleeping,” says Bleyer. “You will hear the motor, pump, and the ice being made and dropped.”
Do countertop ice makers need filters?
“While most countertop ice makers don’t come with filters, they are recommended if you have hard water and your system is compatible with a filter system,” says Bleyer. “The GE Opal nugget ice maker has filters that you can purchase and use in the system. If your ice maker doesn’t come with a filter or filter compatibility, we recommend filling your system with filtered water.”
You do not need to clean these filters. Simply replace them as recommended by the manufacturer.
How do you clean a countertop ice maker?
First off, check your countertop ice maker manual in case there are specific cleaning instructions. Otherwise, Bleyer recommends cleaning your ice maker before first use. She recommends using a “white vinegar and water solution to descale it like you would a coffee maker.”
Make sure to review the manual again to figure out cleaning cadence. “I’ve seen recommendations that say only twice a year, but definitely check with your machine,” says Bleyer. “And if you’re using hard water or live in a humid climate, you may need to clean more regularly.”
What to look for in the best countertop ice makers
If you’re in the market for a countertop ice maker, there are several factors to consider before making a purchase. Keep in mind, most countertop ice makers aren’t made with a freezer component to keep your ice frozen, so you’ll have to transport it to your freezer for storage. Many of these models will cycle melted ice through the machine to be frozen again. Here are some of the other factors to think about:
Machine Size: Each of these machines are small enough to fit on your countertop, but the dimensions vary. Make sure to take a look at the dimensions before making your purchase.
Ice Cube Size & Shape: If you like to mix up the size ice cube you use depending on your drink, you’ll want to look for a machine that has different size options. Most of these ice machines produce bullet- or nugget-shaped ice.
Extra Features: Do you want a no-frills ice maker, or something with all the bells and whistles? If you’re making ice frequently, you may want to look for machines that have helpful features like a self-cleaning function, alerts to add water or remove ice, or a transparent window so you can peak inside and see the status of your ice.
Why trust Delish
Nashia Baker is a commerce editor at Hearst covering the latest and greatest products across the home and lifestyle categories. Throughout her career, she has interviewed chefs and food experts to learn about top trends in the culinary world.
Allison Arnold is the associate SEO editor at Delish, where she writes about kitchen gadgets and food and culture.
Associate SEO Editor
Allison Arnold is the Associate SEO Editor at Delish, where she writes about kitchen gadgets and food and culture. She likes exercising almost as much as eating, and has a thorough Google Maps ranking system for her favorite restaurants and bars. You can find her spewing hot takes on the food world and planning her next trip, all with multiple cans of seltzer open at a time.
Commerce Editor
Nashia Baker is a commerce editor at Hearst Magazines; she covers all things home and lifestyle across brands such as Oprah Daily, Cosmopolitan, Delish, and Esquire. Before joining Hearst, she highlighted small business owners, creatives, and the best shoppable content.
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