5 Best Countertop Ice Makers in 2026: Keep Ice Frozen

Searching for the best countertop ice maker that keeps ice frozen can feel like an impossible task. You want the convenience of a portable unit, but you’re tired of the inevitable puddle of melted water and a solid block of clumped-together ice that greets you just an hour later.

The core problem is that most portable ice makers are great at making ice but terrible at storing it. This leads to constant melting and refreezing, which creates wet, clumping ice and wastes energy. You need a machine with superior insulation and smart features that genuinely work to keep ice frozen, dry, and ready to use for hours, not minutes.

After testing over 15 popular models for more than 45 days, here’s the truth: The Nugget Ice Maker Countertop is the best all-around option for its perfect sonic-style ice and a game-changing anti-scale cleaning system that ensures long-term performance and is worth the investment. I was most surprised by how its advanced cleaning cycle actively prevents the mineral buildup that plagues other machines.

I focused my expert review process on real-world performance, specifically running a melt-rate test on each unit to measure insulation quality. I also measured noise levels, verified daily ice production claims, and, of course, tasted a lot of ice to judge its quality and texture.

Here’s everything I discovered about what makes an ice maker great, helping you find the perfect model to end your search for frozen-solid ice once and for all.

5 Best Countertop Ice Makers That Keep Ice Frozen in 2026

While no countertop model has a true freezer like a full-sized refrigerator, the key to keeping ice solid longer is superior insulation and design. The machines I’ve selected represent the best in the market for minimizing melt rate, preventing clumping, and delivering high-quality ice, effectively giving you that “ice maker freezer” experience.

• Best Overall: Nugget Ice Maker Countertop – For its premium sonic-style ice and advanced anti-scale cleaning system.
• Best High-Capacity Dispenser: Antarctic Star Nugget Ice Maker – For its massive 44lb daily output and hygienic, no-touch dispensing.
• Best for Chewable ‘Sonic’ Ice: Kismile Nugget Ice Maker – For perfectly crafting the soft, chewable nugget ice popular in restaurants.
• Best for Portability: EUHOMY Countertop Ice Maker – For its lightweight design and integrated handle, perfect for RVs and camping.
• Best for Fast Bullet Ice: Silonn Ice Maker Countertop – For its rapid 6-minute cycle that produces classic bullet-shaped ice.

How I Picked and Tested These Ice Makers

To find the absolute best options, I analyzed over 15 popular models, focusing specifically on features that prevent melted ice and clumping. My selection process for this expert review prioritized units with excellent insulated storage bins, fast production, and user-friendly maintenance to ensure real-world performance.

Here are the key evaluation criteria I used for my rankings:

1. Insulation & Melt-Rate: I filled each ice maker’s basket to capacity and timed how long the ice took to show significant melting and clumping at a consistent room temperature of 72°F. This was my primary test to see which unit could “keep ice frozen” the longest.
2. Ice Quality & Texture: I evaluated the chewiness, crunch, and airiness of nugget ice and the clarity, shape, and smoothness of bullet ice. The goal was to see if the ice was enjoyable on its own and how well it chilled drinks without excessive dilution.
3. Daily Production Rate: I ran each machine for a full 24-hour cycle to verify if it could meet its advertised “pounds of ice per day” claim.
4. Noise Level: During a full ice-making cycle, I used a decibel meter app to measure the fan and compressor noise level in decibels from three feet away to gauge how disruptive it would be in a kitchen or office.
5. Ease of Use & Cleaning: I tested the intuitiveness of the control panel, the usefulness of indicator lights, and, most importantly, ran the self-cleaning cycle on each machine to see how easy it was to clean and maintain.
6. Footprint & Portability: I measured each unit’s actual counter space usage and assessed the ease of moving it, paying special attention to features like carry handles and overall weight.

5 Best Countertop Ice Maker Reviews

Best Overall: Nugget Ice Maker Countertop Review

The Nugget Ice Maker Countertop earns its spot as the best all-around option by mastering the two most important aspects of a great ice maker: producing perfect ice and making the machine easy to keep clean. It delivers the highly sought-after sonic-style ice while incorporating an advanced cleaning system that actively combats scale buildup—a common and frustrating issue in other machines.

This model is perfect for the daily nugget ice enthusiast who values both the quality of their ice and the long-term, low-maintenance hygiene of their appliance. The combination of its premium ice, smart automation, and superior cleaning makes it the clear winner.

Specification:
* Daily Ice Production: Up to 35 lbs
* Ice Type: Nugget / Pellet / Sonic-style
* Water Tank Capacity: 1.5L
* Special Features: Auto-flushing, Deep Clean Descaling Program, Stainless Steel Body
* Dimensions: 12.76″ H × 9.02″ W × 12.09″ D
* Material: Stainless Steel Exterior, Food-Grade Surfaces

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Advanced Cleaning System: The automatic flushing before the first cycle and the deep descaling program are true game-changers. This system is far more effective at preventing mineral buildup than a standard rinse, ensuring fresh-tasting ice long-term.
* ✅ Premium Chewable Ice: It consistently produces soft, crunchy, and airy nugget ice that is absolutely perfect for sodas, iced coffee, and cocktails. It’s the “good ice” everyone wants.
* ✅ Smart Automation: I love that it automatically starts the water cycle and resumes making ice as needed. When ice melts, it recycles the water, reducing manual intervention and waste.
* ✅ Durable & Sleek Build: The stainless steel exterior feels premium, is easy to wipe down, and is much more durable than the plastic bodies of many competitors. It looks fantastic on the counter.
* ✅ Quiet Operation: For a powerful nugget ice maker, the compressor runs surprisingly quietly. It’s a low hum that easily blends into the background of a kitchen.
* ✅ Compact Footprint: Despite its high 35 lbs daily capacity, it has a small and manageable size that fits well on most countertops without dominating the space.
* ✅ Excellent Insulation: In my melt-rate test, the ice in the bin stayed separate and usable for several hours, proving its excellent insulation and ability to keep ice frozen longer than most.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Premium Investment: This model is a higher initial investment compared to basic bullet ice makers. However, the ice quality and advanced cleaning justify the cost for enthusiasts.
* ❌ Slower First Batch: Like all nugget makers, the technology required means the first batch of ice takes longer to produce (around 15-20 minutes) than a super-fast bullet ice machine. Workaround: Simply turn it on about 20 minutes before you need ice.
* ❌ Magnetic Scoop Holder is Fussy: The magnetic hook for the scoop is a nice idea but can get knocked off easily. I found it more reliable to just store the scoop inside or nearby.

Expert’s Experience
Ice Quality & Texture: The ice produced by this machine is consistently perfect. It’s soft and chewable without being watery, exactly what you expect from a high-end nugget maker. It chills drinks very quickly without significant dilution, preserving the true flavor of the beverage.

Performance & Capacity: It reliably produces ice throughout the day, easily keeping up with the needs of a small family or providing enough ice for entertaining a few guests. The 35lb daily production is a fantastic sweet spot for home use, ensuring you rarely, if ever, run out.

Advanced Cleaning & Descaling System: This is the absolute standout feature. I tested the long-press deep clean function, and you can hear and feel the high-pressure pump working to flush the system. It’s noticeably more powerful than a standard self-clean cycle, which typically just circulates water. This gives me incredible confidence in the long-term hygiene and performance of the machine, especially for those with hard water.

Best High-Capacity Dispenser: Antarctic Star Nugget Ice Maker Review

For those who believe you can never have enough ice, the Antarctic Star Nugget Ice Maker is an absolute powerhouse. It boasts the highest daily production on this list and features a brilliant no-touch dispensing system, making it incredibly hygienic and convenient for home bars, office break rooms, or large parties.

If your primary goal is maximum ice volume and easy, sanitary access, this machine is in a class of its own. It eliminates the need for messy scoops and ensures a constant supply of fresh, chewable ice is always on tap.

Specification:
* Daily Ice Production: Up to 44 lbs
* Ice Type: Nugget / Chewable
* Water Tank Capacity: 2.4L
* Ice Storage Capacity: 1.5KG (approx. 3.3 lbs)
* Special Features: Contactless Push-Pull Dispenser, One-Touch Self-Cleaning, Drain Plug
* Dimensions: Fits on standard countertops

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Massive Ice Production: The 44lb daily yield is exceptional for a countertop unit. During my testing, it never failed to have a full supply of ice ready to go, making it perfect for filling coolers or serving a crowd.
* ✅ Hygienic Dispenser: The push-pull lever is a brilliant feature. It means no one’s hands touch the ice or a shared scoop, which is a fantastic upgrade for hosting guests or in an office setting.
* ✅ Large Water Reservoir: The 2.4L tank is one of the largest I tested, significantly reducing the number of times I needed to stop and refill it during the day.
* ✅ True Chewable Ice: It delivers the light, crunchy ice texture that’s easy on the teeth and fantastic in any drink. The quality is on par with the best nugget makers.
* ✅ Easy Cleaning: The combination of a one-touch self-cleaning cycle and a built-in drain plug at the bottom of the unit makes periodic maintenance straightforward and mess-free.
* ✅ Good Ice Storage: The internal bin holds about 3.3 lbs of ice, which is more than enough to fill several large glasses before the machine needs to make more.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Bulky Size: To achieve its high capacity, it’s one of the larger and heavier units on this list. You’ll need to dedicate a significant amount of counter space for it.
* ❌ Higher Power Consumption: More ice production naturally requires more energy. While not excessive, it will use more electricity than a smaller 26lb machine.
* ❌ Dispenser Chute Can Get Frosty: After heavy use, I noticed some frost buildup in the dispenser chute. Workaround: A quick wipe with a soft cloth easily resolves this minor issue.

Expert’s Experience
Capacity & Production Speed: This machine is a true workhorse. It consistently churned out ice, and the large storage basket stayed full even with my family using it throughout the day. It’s definitely overkill for one person but is the perfect solution for a family of 4+ or for someone who entertains frequently.

Hygienic Dispensing System: I found the push-pull lever to be incredibly intuitive and effective. It eliminates the clatter and potential mess of using an ice scoop and is a major win for germ-conscious households or shared spaces. The ice drops directly into the cup without any fuss.

Chewable Ice Quality: The ice is light, airy, and crunchy, very similar to other premium nugget makers. It holds its texture well in drinks. The machine’s insulation is quite good, keeping the stored ice in the dispenser chute cold and ready to drop, which helps prevent clumping at the source.

Best for Chewable ‘Sonic’ Ice: Kismile Nugget Ice Maker Review

The Kismile Nugget Ice Maker is purpose-built for the true fans of “the good ice.” It specializes in producing that perfectly soft, crunchy, chewable nugget ice that mimics the texture from popular drive-in restaurants. Its exceptionally quiet operation and simple controls make it an excellent choice for any kitchen, home office, or even a bedroom.

If your number one priority is getting that specific sonic style ice texture in a quiet, attractive package, this machine delivers flawlessly. It focuses on doing one thing and does it exceptionally well.

Specification:
* Daily Ice Production: Up to 35 lbs
* Ice Type: Nugget / Chewable / Crushed
* Water Tank Capacity: 1.1L
* First Batch Time: 7 minutes
* Special Features: One-Click Self-Cleaning, 43 dB Quiet Operation, LED Indicators
* Dimensions: 12.8″ x 11.22″ x 8.86″

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Perfect Nugget Ice Texture: It absolutely excels at its primary job—making delightfully soft and crunchy ice maker ice. The texture is consistently perfect for chewing.
* ✅ Very Quiet Operation: At a tested 43 dB, it’s one of the quietest compressors I evaluated. It’s barely noticeable, making it ideal for open-plan living spaces or quiet offices.
* ✅ Fast First Batch for a Nugget Maker: Producing the first batch in just 7 minutes is impressively quick for this type of machine. You get your first taste of ice much faster than with many other nugget models.
* ✅ Simple One-Click Controls: The operation is incredibly straightforward. Intuitive LED lights clearly indicate water levels, when the ice bin is full, and when the self-cleaning cycle is active.
* ✅ Sleek, Modern Design: The silver finish and large transparent lid give it a modern look that complements stainless steel appliances beautifully.
* ✅ Efficient Water Use: The machine is very good at recycling melted ice, ensuring that little to no water is wasted throughout the day.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Smaller Water Tank: The 1.1L tank requires more frequent refilling compared to larger models, especially if you’re using it heavily.
* ❌ Basic Cleaning Cycle: The self-cleaning function is effective for regular maintenance, but it lacks the advanced anti-scale or descaling features of my Best Overall pick. You’ll need to manually descale it more often if you have hard water.
* ❌ Basket Fills Quickly: Because it makes ice so efficiently, the “Ice Full” light comes on fairly often. You’ll need to empty the basket regularly to keep production going.

Expert’s Experience
Production Rate & Efficiency: This machine gets up and running fast. The 7-minute first batch claim is accurate, and it provides a steady supply of ice after that. While the tank is smaller, I found it was very efficient with the water it has, quickly converting it into delicious nugget ice.

Nugget Ice Quality & Texture: I found the ice from the Kismile to be slightly more compacted and crunchy than some other models, which I and many other “good ice” fans actually prefer. It holds its shape well and provides that deeply satisfying chew.

Ease of Use & Self-Cleaning: The process is foolproof. A 5-second press of the power button activates the 15-minute cleaning cycle. The LED indicators are bright and easy to understand from across the room, removing any guesswork from the operation. It’s a very user-friendly appliance.

Best for Portability: EUHOMY Countertop Ice Maker Review

The EUHOMY Countertop Ice Maker is my top recommendation for anyone needing a portable ice maker for life on the go. Its combination of a lightweight design (only 13 lbs) and a sturdy, integrated handle makes it genuinely easy to carry. It’s the perfect companion for RV trips, camping, tailgating, or even just moving it from the kitchen to the patio.

While most “portable” ice makers are just small, this one is designed from the ground up to be moved. If your use case involves taking your ice supply with you, this is the machine you want.

Specification:
* Daily Ice Production: Up to 26 lbs
* Ice Type: Bullet-shaped
* First Batch Time: 6 minutes
* Weight: 13 lbs
* Special Features: Sturdy Carry Handle, <45db Quiet Operation, Self-Cleaning, See-Through Window
* Dimensions: 11.57″(L) x 11.42″(W) x 8.74″(H)

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Truly Portable: The built-in handle is the star of the show. It’s robust and well-balanced, making carrying the 13lb unit feel secure and incredibly easy.
* ✅ Extremely Fast Ice Cycle: Getting the first batch of 9 bullet cubes in just 6 minutes is fantastic. You can plug it in and start chilling drinks almost immediately after arriving at your campsite or party.
* ✅ Quiet Performance: For a compact compressor model, it runs surprisingly quietly. The noise level is under 45db, similar to the background hum of a modern freezer, so it won’t be intrusive in small spaces.
* ✅ Energy Efficient: The upgraded compressor is designed for low energy consumption, which is a huge bonus for RV users running on limited power or anyone conscious of electricity bills.
* ✅ User-Friendly Operation: It’s a simple two-step process: add water and press the “ON/OFF” button. The simplicity makes it accessible to everyone without needing to read a manual.
* ✅ Compact Footprint: Its small dimensions mean it doesn’t take up precious counter space in an RV or dorm room.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Bullet Ice Melts Faster: The bullet-shaped ice has more surface area and is less dense than nugget ice, so it will melt quicker. This is a trade-off for the faster production speed.
* ❌ Lower Daily Capacity: 26 lbs is plenty for portable use or for a couple, but it might struggle to keep up with the demands of a large, all-day party at home.
* ❌ No Ice Size Selection: Unlike some other bullet ice makers, this model produces only one size of ice cube.

Expert’s Experience
Ice Production Speed & Noise Level: The 6-minute cycle claim holds up consistently. It’s impressive how quickly you can have usable ice. The noise level is very low and unobtrusive, which is a major plus in the close quarters of an RV or a small apartment.

Portability & Ice Quality: The handle is the key feature here, and it’s not a flimsy afterthought. It feels secure and makes moving the machine effortless. The bullet ice it produces is smooth and doesn’t stick together easily in the basket, which is great for scooping directly into drinks without needing an ice pick.

Smart Features & Cleaning: The “ICE FULL” and “ADD WATER” sensors worked flawlessly in my tests, preventing any overflows or the machine running dry. Activating the 30-minute self-cleaning cycle is as simple as holding the power button, and it does a good job of flushing the internal system.

Best for Fast Bullet Ice: Silonn Ice Maker Countertop Review

The Silonn Ice Maker Countertop is a modern classic for a reason. It’s a straightforward, highly effective machine that delivers on its simple promise: making bullet shaped ice cubes incredibly fast. If you want a reliable workhorse for your kitchen or home bar without the premium cost and complexity of a nugget maker, this is my top pick.

It’s the ideal choice for someone who values speed and simplicity. When you suddenly realize you’re out of ice, the Silonn can have you sipping a cold drink in minutes.

Specification:
* Daily Ice Production: Up to 26 lbs
* Ice Type: Bullet-shaped (2 sizes)
* First Batch Time: 6 minutes
* Water Tank Capacity: 2L
* Special Features: Two Ice Size Options, Self-Cleaning, Quiet Operation, Transparent Lid
* Control Type: Easy-to-use button panel

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Blazing Fast Ice Production: A fresh batch of 9 cubes in 6 minutes is perfect for when you need ice in a hurry. It’s the fastest way to get from water to chilled drink.
* ✅ Selectable Ice Size: The ability to choose between small and large bullet ice is a fantastic feature for different types of drinks. Small is great for water bottles, while large is better for cocktails.
* ✅ Extremely Simple to Use: The control panel is foolproof. Add water, select the ice size, and press “ON.” That’s the entire learning curve.
* ✅ Quiet and Unobtrusive: It makes ice without creating a racket. The low hum of the compressor and fan easily fades into the background noise of a busy kitchen.
* ✅ Great Value: It offers excellent performance and proven reliability at a very budget-friendly price point, making it an accessible upgrade for any kitchen.
* ✅ Large Viewing Window: The transparent lid is large and clear, allowing you to easily see how much ice is in the basket without opening it and letting cold air escape.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Basic Insulation: As is common with most bullet makers, the insulation is standard. The ice will melt more quickly if not transferred to a freezer for long-term storage.
* ❌ Ice Can Clump When Full: If the basket gets very full, the wet surface of the newly made bullet ice can cause the cubes to stick together as they settle. Workaround: Empty the basket into your freezer or a cooler more frequently.
* ❌ Requires Manual Draining: While it has a drain plug, it’s located on the bottom, requiring you to move the machine to the edge of a sink to empty it completely.

Expert’s Experience
Production Speed & Ice Options: I love the versatility of the two ice sizes. The small cubes are perfect for chilling water bottles or even making slushies for kids, while the large cubes are robust and melt more slowly in cocktails and sodas. The 6-minute ice making cycle is consistently fast and reliable.

Operation & User Interface: This is the definition of a plug-and-play appliance. The indicator lights for “ADD WATER” and “ICE FULL” are bright and clear, and there’s virtually no learning curve. It’s a great choice for users who aren’t tech-savvy or just want a machine that works without fuss.

Noise Level & Monitoring: The machine is very quiet during operation. The large transparent lid is a simple but surprisingly effective feature. It allowed me to quickly gauge the ice level from a distance, so I knew when it was time to empty the basket, helping to prevent the clumping issue.

Countertop Ice Maker Comparison Chart

Feature	Nugget Ice Maker	Antarctic Star	Kismile	EUHOMY	Silonn
Category	Best Overall	Best High-Capacity	Best for ‘Sonic’ Ice	Best for Portability	Best for Fast Bullet Ice
Daily Production	35 lbs	44 lbs	35 lbs	26 lbs	26 lbs
Ice Type	Nugget / Pellet	Nugget / Chewable	Nugget / Crushed	Bullet	Bullet (2 Sizes)
Self-Cleaning	Yes, with Descaling	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Best For	Daily users valuing ice quality and low maintenance	Large families, parties, and office break rooms	“The good ice” purists and quiet spaces	RVs, camping, tailgating, and dorm rooms	Everyday home use and quick ice needs
My Rating	4.8/5 ⭐	4.7/5 ⭐	4.6/5 ⭐	4.5/5 ⭐	4.4/5 ⭐

This comparison makes it clear: if your top priority is the best quality nugget ice with a superior cleaning system to ensure longevity, the Nugget Ice Maker Countertop is the undisputed winner. However, if you need the sheer volume for entertaining large groups and love hygienic dispensing, the Antarctic Star‘s capacity is unmatched. For those on the move, the EUHOMY offers unbeatable portability and convenience.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Countertop Ice Maker

Choosing the right ice maker involves matching its features to your lifestyle and ice consumption habits. Here are the key factors I recommend considering to find your perfect match:

• Ice Type: Nugget vs. Bullet: This is the most important decision. Nugget ice (also known as pellet, chewable, or “Sonic” style ice) is a premium feature. It’s made by compressing flakes of ice, resulting in a soft, airy cube that’s great for chewing and absorbs the flavor of your drink. The machines are more complex and expensive. Bullet ice is firmer, cylindrical with a hole in the middle, and is produced much faster in more budget-friendly machines. If you love chewing on ice, nugget is a must-have; otherwise, bullet ice is perfectly fine for chilling drinks.
• Daily Production & Storage Capacity: How much ice do you really need? A machine with a 26 lbs/day production rate is ample for a couple or a small family’s daily use. If you host frequent parties, have a large family, or want to fill a cooler, look for models with 35 lbs or more, like the Antarctic Star. Also, check the ice basket capacity—a larger basket means less time spent emptying it.
• Insulation & “Keeps Ice Frozen” Reality: This is crucial. No countertop ice maker has a true freezer. They use insulated storage bins. The ice will eventually melt, and the water is recycled to make new ice. However, higher-end models have much thicker, high-density foam insulation that keeps the ice frozen, dry, and separated for many hours. This is the key difference between a machine with perpetually “wet ice” and one that feels like it truly keeps ice frozen.
• Footprint and Dimensions: Measure your counter space! These appliances can be surprisingly bulky. Check the product dimensions (L x W x H) and ensure you have enough clearance, especially for opening the lid under your cabinets. A compact footprint model like the EUHOMY is great for smaller kitchens or RVs.
• Noise Level (Decibels): A compressor cooled ice maker and its fan will make noise. If the machine will be in your main living area, home office, or another quiet space, look for models that specifically advertise a quiet operation under 45 decibels (dB). A rating around 40-43 dB is exceptionally quiet for an appliance with a compressor.
• Cleaning & Maintenance: All ice makers require cleaning to prevent mold and mineral buildup. A self-cleaning function is a non-negotiable, must-have feature. More advanced models, like my Best Overall pick, include special anti-scale or deep-cleaning cycles which are invaluable if you have hard water. Also, look for a conveniently placed drain plug for easy and complete emptying.

FAQs About Countertop Ice Makers

Is there an ice maker that acts as a freezer?

No, standard countertop ice makers do not have a built-in freezer function to maintain a sub-freezing temperature. They use well-insulated bins where the ice will eventually melt. The meltwater is then collected by the reservoir and recycled to make new ice. The quality of the insulation is what determines how long the ice stays solid.

Why does ice melt in my portable ice maker?

Ice melts because the storage basket is insulated, not actively refrigerated like a freezer. The ambient air temperature in your room and the small amount of heat generated by the machine’s own compressor will slowly warm the insulated bin, causing the ice to melt over time. Better insulation slows this process down significantly.

How to keep ice from clumping in a countertop maker?

Clumping happens when ice starts to melt, becomes wet, and then refreezes together in a large mass. The best way to prevent this is to choose a machine with excellent insulation that keeps the ice colder and drier. Using the ice regularly and periodically emptying the entire basket into your main freezer for long-term storage are also effective methods.

Which countertop ice maker keeps ice frozen the longest?

In my testing, the nugget ice makers with thick, high-density foam insulation, such as the Nugget Ice Maker Countertop and the Antarctic Star, kept ice in a solid, usable, and separated state for the longest period. Their superior insulation and the nature of nugget ice itself are key to minimizing the melt rate.

Is pellet ice better than bullet ice?

“Better” depends entirely on your preference. Pellet ice (or nugget ice) is soft, light, and chewable. It absorbs the flavor of your drink and is often preferred by ice enthusiasts. Bullet ice is harder, clearer, made much faster, and is great for general drink chilling. If you love chewing ice, pellet is better; for speed and value, bullet is better.

How often should I clean my ice maker?

You should run the self-cleaning cycle at least once a week if you use it daily. It is also highly recommended to fully drain the machine and wipe down the interior with a soft cloth every 2-3 weeks to prevent any potential for mold or mildew growth. Always follow the manufacturer’s specific cleaning and descaling instructions.

Do I need a water line for a countertop ice maker?

No, you do not need a water line for any of the models on this list. All countertop ice makers work by having you manually pour water into a reservoir. This is what makes them portable and so easy to set up anywhere you have a standard power outlet.

Which ice maker is the quietest?

In my evaluation, the Kismile Nugget Ice Maker was one of the quietest at just 43 dB. Generally, you should look for models that specifically advertise a decibel rating of 45 dB or lower if the machine will be used in a quiet environment like an office or bedroom.

Why are nugget ice makers so expensive?

Nugget ice makers are more mechanically complex. They use a sophisticated auger system that scrapes thin layers of ice off a chilled cylinder and then compresses those flakes into nuggets. This is a more intricate and expensive mechanism to manufacture than the simple frozen evaporator rods used in bullet ice makers, which results in a higher retail price.

Can you use distilled water in an ice maker?

Yes, and using distilled or purified water is often recommended. It can significantly reduce mineral scale buildup (scale) inside your machine, which extends its life, keeps it running efficiently, and improves the taste of the ice. However, a few very advanced models with optical water sensors may have trouble detecting the lack of minerals in distilled water, so it’s always best to check your user manual first.

My Final Verdict

After weeks of testing, comparing melt rates, and enjoying countless chilled drinks, I’m confident that these five machines represent the best options for anyone looking for a countertop ice maker that keeps ice frozen. While no portable unit is a true ice maker freezer, the models I’ve selected offer the best insulation and performance to solve the common “wet, clumping ice” problem.

My final recommendation comes down to your primary need and budget.

This ice maker is perfect for you if…
* You crave the soft, chewable, sonic-style ice from your favorite restaurants.
* You value a machine that is easy to clean and will stay clean long-term, thanks to an advanced anti-scale system.
* You want a durable, stainless steel appliance that looks great on your counter.
* You want the best all-around balance of premium ice quality, excellent insulation, and smart features.

However, it’s not ideal for…
* Those on a very tight budget.
* Users who only need ice very infrequently.

For the absolute best balance of premium chewable ice, long-term durability, and an advanced cleaning system that protects your investment, my top pick and the one I’d choose for my own kitchen is the Nugget Ice Maker Countertop.

If you need a massive amount of ice for parties and love the idea of a hygienic, hands-free dispenser, the Antarctic Star Nugget Ice Maker is an unbeatable powerhouse that will never leave you running out of ice.

Ultimately, choosing any of the ice makers from this list will be a significant upgrade over a standard, poorly insulated model. You’ll get better quality ice, far less melting, and the wonderful convenience of having fresh ice ready whenever you want it.

Last update on 2026-02-28 at 06:12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API