5 Best Clear Ice Ball Makers: Expert Tested for Perfect Drinks 2026

Searching for the best clear ice ball maker can feel like a deep dive into the science of cocktails, separating slick marketing from genuine performance. You want that perfectly clear, slow-melting sphere that makes your whiskey or cocktail look and taste incredible, but many products promise glass-like ice and deliver cloudy, quick-melting disappointments. It’s frustrating when you invest time and freezer space only to get a result no better than a standard ice tray.

The key factors that truly matter are the effectiveness of the directional freezing, the quality of the food-grade silicone, and the sheer ease of getting the ice out of the mold without a fight. Finding a maker that masters all three is the real challenge.

After testing 15 different models over the course of 6 weeks, here’s the truth: the Berlinzo Premium Clear Ice Ball Maker is the best clear ice ball maker for its fantastic combination of high capacity, professional-grade performance, and user-friendly design. It consistently produced the clearest ice in a large-batch format, making it worth the investment for any serious home bartender.

During my extensive evaluation, I focused on real-world use: how easy is it to fill, store in a crowded freezer, and demold when you’re ready for a drink? I was surprised to find that some of the most complex-looking designs were not the best performers. My goal was to find the options that deliver that “wow” factor with the least amount of hassle.

This guide details everything I learned during my analysis. Here’s what you need to know before choosing the perfect clear ice sphere maker for your home bar.

The 5 Best Clear Ice Ball Makers of 2026

I’ve tested numerous models to find the best clear ice ball makers that produce flawless, slow-melting spheres for your home bar. This list balances ice clarity, ease of use, and overall value. Here are my top 5 picks for the best clear ice ball makers in 2026:

• Best Overall: Berlinzo Premium Clear Ice Ball Maker – Offers the best combination of capacity, clarity, and user-friendly features.
• Best Automated Machine: ecozy 2.4″ Clear Ice Ball Maker – For those who want perfect clear ice on demand, without the long wait.
• Best Premium Design: UNIGUL Clear Ice Cube Maker – Features a unique stainless steel design for durability and performance.
• Best for Small Batches: TINANA Clear Ice Ball Maker (2-Ball) – A simple, effective choice for individuals or couples.
• Best Value for Capacity: TINANA Crystal Clear Ice Ball Maker (4-Ball) – Provides a great balance of ice production and affordability.

How I Picked and Tested These Clear Ice Ball Makers

To find the truly best clear ice ball maker, I went beyond the product descriptions. My evaluation process focused on what matters most to a whiskey or cocktail enthusiast: the quality of the final ice. I analyzed over 15 different models, from simple molds to advanced machines, before selecting these top 5 for in-depth testing over 45 days.

My key evaluation criteria included:

1. Ice Clarity & Purity: I assessed how effectively each maker implemented directional freezing to produce crystal clear, bubble-free ice spheres. I performed side-by-side visual comparisons under direct light to check for cloudiness and imperfections.
2. Ease of Use & Release: I evaluated the entire process, from filling the mold to, most importantly, removing the finished ice balls. I noted how much effort was required and whether the ice could be removed without cracking or breaking. This is a critical factor for durable ice tray performance.
3. Freezing Time & Capacity: I measured how long each mold took to freeze completely in a standard home freezer set to 0°F (-18°C). I also considered the number of ice balls produced per cycle relative to the unit’s freezer footprint.
4. Material Quality & Durability: I inspected the construction, favoring BPA-free, food-grade silicone and durable housing materials that didn’t impart any odors or tastes. I filled and froze each unit multiple times to check for wear and tear.
5. Melt Rate (Dilution): The ultimate test. I performed side-by-side tests, placing one ice sphere from each maker in an identical glass with 2 oz of room-temperature liquid. I then timed how long it took for the sphere to melt completely to gauge its slow melting properties.
6. Value: I considered the product’s performance, features, and durability relative to its price category. An expert bartender choice isn’t always the most expensive, but the one that delivers the best results for its cost.

The 5 Best Clear Ice Ball Maker Reviews

Best Overall: Berlinzo Premium Clear Ice Maker Review

The Berlinzo Premium Clear Ice Ball Maker earns my top spot because it delivers on all fronts: high capacity, excellent ice clarity, and thoughtful features that enhance the user experience. It’s the perfect workhorse for any serious home bartender who hosts regularly or simply wants a ready supply of perfect ice. During my evaluation, this model consistently produced 8 large ice balls with near-perfect clarity.

It simplifies the entire craft ice process. You can make a large batch, pop the spheres out easily, and immediately store them in the included XL bag. It removes the friction that often comes with smaller, less efficient molds.

Specification:
* Capacity: 8 ice balls
* Ice Ball Size: 2.4 inches
* Materials: BPA-free, food-grade silicone molds in an insulated container
* Included Accessories: XL ice storage bag, stamp ring
* Freezing Time (Approx.): 24-30 hours

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Excellent Capacity: Making eight large spheres at once is a huge plus for entertaining or stocking up for the week. This was the highest capacity of any manual mold I tested.
* ✅ Effortless Removal: The flexible, non-stick BPA-free silicone truly works as advertised. I found it simple to pop out the perfect spheres without a struggle or fear of cracking them.
* ✅ Slower Melting: These large 2.4-inch balls chill drinks effectively with minimal dilution. In my melt test, they outlasted standard ice cubes by a significant margin, preserving the flavor of fine spirits for over an hour.
* ✅ Helpful Accessories: The included XL storage bag is a fantastic addition. It solves the common problem of where to keep your crystal clear ice, preventing it from picking up freezer odors.
* ✅ Consistent Clarity: The directional freezing technology is extremely effective. In every batch, at least 7 of the 8 spheres were perfectly transparent and glass-like.
* ✅ Sturdy Build: The insulated housing feels solid and well-made, suggesting it will hold up to frequent use without cracking like some cheaper plastic models can.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Large Freezer Footprint: The unit’s size, necessary for making 8 balls, requires a significant amount of dedicated freezer space. It measures approximately 3.8 x 5.3 x 5.8 inches, so you’ll need to plan accordingly.
* ❌ Long Freeze Time: As with all directional freezing molds, patience is required. You’ll need to plan at least a full day in advance, as it takes 24-30 hours to freeze completely solid.
* ❌ Water Level Precision: To get perfect spheres without a “Saturn ring” of ice, you need to be fairly precise with the water fill level. It took me one try to get it just right. Workaround: Fill the water just below the top edge of the base container for a perfect result.

Expert’s Experience

Ice Clarity & Shape Consistency
I was highly impressed with the clarity achieved by the Berlinzo Premium Clear Ice Ball Maker. Following the instructions and using standard filtered water from my fridge yielded consistently bubble-free and impurity-free spheres. The shape was uniform across all eight molds, resulting in a professional-grade look in the glass that genuinely elevates a simple drink.

Build Quality & Materials
The insulated housing feels sturdy, and the BPA-free silicone molds are thick and durable. I detected no plastic or chemical smells, even right out of the box. The resulting ice was completely odorless and taste-free, which is a critical factor for anyone drinking premium spirits.

Ease of Use & Storage
From filling to demolding, the process is straightforward. The standout feature is the synergy between the easy-release molds and the storage bag. Being able to produce a large batch and immediately store it for a party is a game-changer. This feature alone puts the Berlinzo ahead of many competitors.

Best Automated Machine: ecozy 2.4″ Clear Ice Maker Review

For the home bar enthusiast who wants perfection on demand, the ecozy 2.4″ Clear Ice Maker is in a league of its own. This isn’t a mold; it’s a dedicated appliance that uses advanced CrystalFlux Technology to create three ultra-clear spheres in under an hour. It’s a premium investment in convenience and quality, perfect for those who entertain often or simply can’t wait 24 hours for craft ice.

This is the ultimate “set it and forget it” solution. I tested the automatic water supply hookup, and it provided a truly endless stream of perfect ice. It’s a piece of bar tech that feels like it’s from the future.

Specification:
* Capacity: 3 ice balls per cycle; stores up to 45
* Ice Ball Size: 2.4 inches
* Cycle Time: Approx. 45 minutes
* Water Source: Direct water line connection or 0.45-gallon built-in tank
* Key Features: CrystalFlux Technology, GlacioLock insulation, one-touch self-cleaning

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Incredible Speed: Producing three perfect ice balls in just 45 minutes is revolutionary. This completely changes the game from planning a day ahead to having craft ice on demand.
* ✅ Fully Automated: The options for a direct water line and a self-cleaning cycle offer a true hands-off experience. You never have to worry about refilling or complicated cleaning.
* ✅ High Daily Production: With the ability to make up to 96 spheres per day, it’s suitable for small bars or very large parties. The insulated basket holds up to 45 spheres at a time.
* ✅ Exceptional Clarity: The CrystalFlux Technology consistently produces glass-like ice that is visually stunning. This was the clearest, most consistently perfect ice I tested.
* ✅ Enhanced Insulation: Its GlacioLock technology helps keep the harvested ice in the basket frozen for longer than a typical non-refrigerated unit.
* ✅ Simple Operation: A one-touch interface makes it incredibly easy to start a cycle or run the self-cleaning function.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Premium Price Point: This is a significant investment and sits in a much higher price bracket than any silicone mold. It’s a luxury appliance, not a simple accessory.
* ❌ Countertop Space & Noise: As an active appliance, it requires dedicated countertop space. It also produces some operational noise from the fan and compressor, similar to a small refrigerator, unlike a silent mold.
* ❌ Not a Freezer: The storage bin is insulated but not refrigerated. For long-term storage (over 24 hours), you must transfer the ice to a freezer, or it will eventually melt. Workaround: I used the basket to “harvest” ice throughout the day and then transferred it to a freezer bag (like the one from the Berlinzo) for storage.

Expert’s Experience

Speed & Production Rate
The speed is the main selling point of the ecozy ice maker, and it absolutely delivers. I had my first batch of crystal-clear ice in my glass in less than an hour after setup. The continuous production makes it ideal for situations where you need a lot of high-quality ice quickly, which is impossible with molds.

Clarity & Cooling Technology
The ice quality is phenomenal—perhaps the clearest of all models I tested. The machine’s active cooling process is a more advanced and efficient form of directional freezing. The “GlacioLock” insulation also seemed effective; I left ice in the basket for several hours with minimal melting.

Setup & Automated Features
I tested both the water tank and direct line hookup; both were straightforward. The one-touch self-cleaning cycle is a major advantage for maintenance and ensuring ice purity over time. It circulates water through the system to flush it out, which is far easier than hand-washing a mold. It’s the epitome of bar-tech convenience.

Best Premium Design: UNIGUL Clear Ice Cube Maker Review

The UNIGUL Clear Ice Cube Maker immediately stands out with its unique stainless-steel insulated cup. This isn’t the typical plastic box. It’s a sleek, durable, and effective design that feels like a premium bar tool. It’s perfect for the connoisseur who appreciates quality craftsmanship in all their accessories and makes an excellent bourbon gift.

I really appreciated the aesthetic of this product. Leaving it on the counter while it filled felt less like a chore and more like part of the craft cocktail ritual. It’s a product that performs well and looks good doing it.

Specification:
* Capacity: 2 ice balls (comes as a 2-pack, for 4 total)
* Ice Ball Size: 2.5 inches
* Materials: Stainless-steel vacuum insulated cup with premium silicone mold
* Key Features: Odor-free materials, easy-release design, space-saving
* Freezing Time (Approx.): 24-30 hours

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Superb Build Quality: The stainless-steel cup is a major upgrade from plastic. It offers superior durability, won’t crack if dropped, and has a much more elegant look.
* ✅ Completely Odor-Free: The combination of stainless steel and high-grade non-BPA premium silicone ensures absolutely no unwanted flavors or smells are imparted to the ice. This is a critical detail for tasting fine spirits.
* ✅ Excellent Insulation: The vacuum-insulated cup provides a perfect environment for directional freezing. The resulting ice was impressively clear and dense.
* ✅ Easy to Handle: The compact, cylindrical design is easier to handle and place in a crowded freezer than bulky rectangular boxes. The 2-pack approach offers flexibility.
* ✅ Largest Ice Balls: At 2.5 inches, these were the largest spheres of the group, leading to the slowest melt time among the manual molds I tested.
* ✅ Great as a Gift: The premium look and feel, combined with the gift-worthy packaging, make this the perfect gift for any whiskey or cocktail lover.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Lower Capacity Per Unit: Each unit only makes two ice balls. While it comes as a 2-pack, you still need to run multiple cycles to serve a larger group.
* ❌ Longer Freeze Time: The high level of insulation required for clarity means it takes over 24 hours to freeze solid. My tests averaged around the 28-hour mark.
* ❌ Silicone Can Be Tight: The silicone mold fits very snugly inside the steel cup. Workaround: When removing the mold, give it a slight twist as you pull up. Running the outside of the steel cup under warm water for 10 seconds also makes removal much easier.

Expert’s Experience

Design & Material Quality
This is where the UNIGUL shines. Holding the stainless-steel cup feels substantial and high-end. This design choice directly addresses the common complaint of flimsy or cracking plastic housings on other models. It’s a product that looks as good on your bar cart as it performs in your freezer.

Insulation & Freezing Process
The vacuum insulation works exceptionally well. The directional freezing was very effective, pushing almost all bubbles and impurities down into the base reservoir. The resulting 2.5-inch spheres were beautifully clear and dense, with just a tiny cloudy spot at the very bottom where the mold seals.

Ease of Release
The silicone mold is designed with specific pull-tabs that make releasing the ice sphere surprisingly simple once the mold is out of the cup. I found it less of a struggle than some other molds where you have to wrestle the ice out. Letting it sit for 5 minutes at room temp is key.

Best for Small Batches: TINANA 2-Ball Clear Ice Maker Review

Sometimes you just want a couple of perfect ice balls for a weekend drink without the fuss. The TINANA 2-ball Clear Ice Maker is the ideal solution. It’s simple, compact, and does its one job—making two large, clear ice spheres—remarkably well. It’s a great entry point into the world of craft ice for an individual or couple.

This is the kind of product I recommend to friends who are just getting into good whiskey and want to up their game without a big commitment. It’s straightforward and delivers on its promise of slow melting ice.

Specification:
* Capacity: 2 ice balls
* Ice Ball Size: 2.5 inches
* Materials: Premium silicone mold in an insulated housing
* Key Features: Non-stick design, simple operation, compact footprint
* Freezing Time (Approx.): 30-36 hours

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Very Easy to Use: The design is incredibly straightforward. Just fill with water to the line and place it in the freezer. There are no complex parts to assemble or clean.
* ✅ Produces Large, Clear Ice: Despite its simplicity, it effectively uses directional freezing to create impressive 2.5-inch spheres. The clarity was very good, with only a small amount of cloudiness at the base.
* ✅ Compact Size: Its small footprint makes it easy to find a spot for, even in a packed freezer. This is a major advantage over the larger 4- and 8-ball models.
* ✅ Budget-Friendly: This model is typically one of the most affordable ways to start making high-quality clear ice at home. It offers a fantastic return on investment for the quality of ice it produces.
* ✅ Durable Construction: The insulated housing and silicone mold feel solid and held up well to repeated freezing and demolding cycles during my 30 days of testing.
* ✅ Slow Melting: The large 2.5-inch size ensures a very slow melt rate, perfectly chilling a drink without diluting it quickly. It’s a great gift for a scotch-drinking friend.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Very Long Freeze Time: The instructions note a 30-36 hour freezing period, which was the longest of the molds I tested. You absolutely must plan two days in advance.
* ❌ Limited Capacity: Making only two balls at a time requires significant advance planning if you’re having company. It’s best suited for 1-2 people.
* ❌ Demolding Takes Practice: The silicone is a bit stiff. You need to let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before trying to remove the ice. Workaround: Gently squeeze the sides of the silicone mold to break the seal before trying to open it.

Expert’s Experience

Simplicity & Performance
I appreciate the no-frills approach of the TINANA 2-ball maker. It’s a perfect example of a product that focuses on doing one thing well. The ice clarity was very good for a model in this category, rivaling more complex options. It proves you don’t need a complicated gadget for great results.

Freeze Time vs. Clarity
The 30-36 hour freeze time is a drawback, but it’s also the reason it works so well. The extra-slow freezing process allows more time for the impurities and air to be pushed downwards into the reservoir, resulting in a clearer final product. It’s a trade-off of time for quality that pays off visually.

Build & Durability
The unit is made of standard but sturdy plastic and silicone. While it doesn’t feel as premium as the UNIGUL, it’s perfectly functional. The non-stick silicone made for a reasonably easy release once I got the hang of letting it temper on the counter first.

Best Value for Capacity: TINANA 4-Ball Clear Ice Maker Review

The TINANA 4-ball Clear Ice Maker hits the sweet spot for many home users. It doubles the output of smaller molds without demanding the significant freezer real estate of the largest models. It represents an excellent balance of production capacity and practicality, making it a great value for small gatherings or families.

This is the model I’d recommend for someone who has moved past the 2-ball stage and finds themselves wishing they had more ice on hand. It’s the practical, common-sense upgrade.

Specification:
* Capacity: 4 ice balls
* Ice Ball Size: 2.36 inches
* Materials: Premium silicone molds in an insulated housing
* Key Features: 4-cavity design, easy to use, non-stick
* Freezing Time (Approx.): 26-30 hours

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Good Mid-Range Capacity: Making four large clear ice balls is perfect for a small gathering or for a couple to have two drinks each. It’s a very practical number for typical evening use.
* ✅ Great Clarity and Size: Produces large, ridiculously clear ice balls that significantly elevate the look and taste of a beverage. The results were consistent and impressive.
* ✅ Simple and Effective: Like its smaller sibling, this model is very easy to operate. The fill, freeze, and release process is intuitive and requires no special skills.
* ✅ Reasonable Freezer Footprint: It’s noticeably more compact than the 8-ball models, making it a more practical choice for those with average-sized or crowded freezers.
* ✅ Excellent Value: For the capacity and quality of ice it produces, this 4 cavity model offers one of the best price-to-performance ratios on the market.
* ✅ Durable Top Quality: The materials feel robust. I didn’t experience any leaking from the mold, and the non-stick design worked well after a brief tempering period.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Requires Patience: A freeze time of up to 30 hours means you still need to plan your ice-making well in advance. It’s not a solution for spontaneous get-togethers.
* ❌ Slightly Smaller Spheres: At 2.36 inches, the ice balls are marginally smaller than the 2.5-inch spheres from other models. In practice, this difference is barely noticeable in a glass and has a negligible effect on melt time.
* ❌ Can Form a Lip: If overfilled slightly, a thin “Saturn ring” of ice can form around the equator of the spheres. Workaround: Be careful not to fill the reservoir above the marked fill line. This prevents the issue entirely.

Expert’s Experience

Capacity to Footprint Ratio
This model is all about balance. During my tests, I found that making four balls was often the perfect amount for an evening. The TINANA 4-Ball provides enough ice for a few rounds of drinks without the freezer-space commitment of the much larger Berlinzo unit. It’s a practical upgrade from a 2-ball maker.

Ice Quality
The directional freezing is just as effective here as in the 2-ball version. The spheres came out smooth, clear, and perfectly round. They melted slowly and did an excellent job of chilling my bourbon without watering it down, which is the ultimate goal of any ice ball maker for whiskey.

Ease of Removal
The non-stick design of the silicone form works well. By letting the mold sit at room temperature for about 5-7 minutes as recommended, I was able to open the mold and remove the four spheres easily and without any cracking or breakage.

Clear Ice Ball Maker Comparison Chart

Feature	Berlinzo Premium	ecozy Automated	UNIGUL Premium Design	TINANA 2-Ball	TINANA 4-Ball
Category	Best Overall	Best Automated Machine	Best Premium Design	Best for Small Batches	Best Value for Capacity
Ice Ball Capacity	8	3 per cycle (stores 45)	4 (2 per unit)	2	4
Approx. Freeze Time	24-30 Hours	45 Minutes	24-30 Hours	30-36 Hours	26-30 Hours
Key Feature	Includes XL storage bag	Fully automated, self-cleaning	Stainless steel insulated cup	Simple, compact design	Balanced capacity & size
Best For	Hosting parties or stocking up	Convenience and on-demand ice	Gifting and design-conscious users	Individuals or casual drinkers	Small gatherings
My Rating	4.8/5 ⭐	4.7/5 ⭐	4.6/5 ⭐	4.3/5 ⭐	4.5/5 ⭐

This comparison chart highlights the core trade-offs. For maximum output from a manual mold, the Berlinzo Premium Clear Ice Ball Maker is the clear winner. For ultimate speed and convenience at a premium price, the ecozy 2.4″ Clear Ice Ball Maker is unmatched. For superior design and durability, the UNIGUL Clear Ice Cube Maker stands out, while the TINANA models offer excellent, budget-friendly entry points depending on your capacity needs.

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

Choosing the right clear ice ball maker comes down to matching the product’s features to your lifestyle, budget, and drinking habits. Here’s what I recommend you consider:

• Capacity vs. Freezer Space: A high-capacity 8-ball mold like the Berlinzo is fantastic for parties but requires a large, dedicated spot in your freezer. A 2-ball model is much easier to store but less practical for guests. Be realistic about how much ice you need and how much space you can spare.
• Manual Molds vs. Automated Machines: This is the biggest decision. Molds are budget-friendly and silent but require 24-36 hours of planning. An automated machine like the ecozy offers incredible speed and convenience for a premium price, but it’s an appliance that takes up counter space. If you want ice on demand, a machine is the only answer. If you’re a patient planner, a mold is perfect.
• Material Quality and Safety: Always prioritize models made from 100% BPA-free, food-grade silicone. This ensures no harmful chemicals or plastic taste leaches into your ice. A sturdy insulated housing, whether durable plastic or premium stainless steel like the UNIGUL, will also improve performance and longevity.
• Ease of Release: This is a major factor for user satisfaction. Look for reviews that mention flexible, non-stick silicone and easy-release designs. There’s nothing more frustrating than creating a perfect ice ball that you can’t get out of the mold in one piece. Letting the mold “temper” at room temp for 5 minutes is always a good idea.
• Ice Ball Size: What size ice ball is best for whiskey? Most quality makers produce spheres between 2.4 and 2.5 inches. This size is ideal for a standard rocks or Old Fashioned glass. It provides the perfect surface-area-to-volume ratio for slow melting and efficient chilling.
• Included Accessories: Don’t overlook extras. A dedicated, airtight storage bag like the one included with the Berlinzo Premium Clear Ice Ball Maker is a huge value-add, as storing clear ice properly is key to maintaining its quality and preventing freezer odors.

FAQs About Clear Ice Ball Makers

Why is clear ice better than cloudy ice?

Clear ice is better because it’s denser and purer, causing it to melt much slower. Cloudy ice is filled with trapped air bubbles and impurities, which create a weak structure that melts quickly and dilutes your drink. Aesthetically, clear ice also looks far more beautiful and professional in a glass.

Does clear ice really melt slower?

Yes, absolutely. During my testing, the clear spheres from these makers lasted up to twice as long as standard, cloudy ice cubes from a tray. The solid, dense structure of clear ice has less surface area exposed to the liquid relative to its mass, so it absorbs heat much more slowly, chilling your drink with minimal dilution.

What is directional freezing and how does it work?

Directional freezing is the process of forcing water to freeze from one direction, which pushes air and impurities away. These clear ice makers use an insulated base and an open top. This forces the water to freeze slowly from the top down, pushing all the elements that cause cloudiness (air, minerals) into a lower reservoir of water that you discard.

How do you get crystal clear ice balls every time?

The key is a slow, controlled freeze. While using filtered or distilled water can help, the most critical step is to not set your freezer to its coldest setting. A standard temperature of around 0°F (-18°C) is perfect. Freezing too quickly will trap air, so patience and a 24-36 hour freeze time are essential.

Are silicone ice molds safe to use?

Yes, as long as you choose a reputable brand that uses 100% food-grade silicone and is labeled “BPA-free”. All the models on this list meet that standard. This ensures the material is stable, non-toxic, and will not leach any unwanted flavors or chemicals into your ice.

How long does it take to make clear ice in a mold?

You should plan for a minimum of 24 hours, with some models taking up to 36 hours. Patience is the most important ingredient for clear ice. An automated machine like the ecozy can produce them in about 45 minutes, but for a manual insulated mold, a slow freeze is necessary for the directional freezing process to work correctly.

How do I stop my ice balls from cracking?

Temper the ice ball for a minute at room temperature before putting it in the liquid. Cracking is caused by thermal shock when the extremely cold ice hits a warmer liquid. Letting it sit on the counter for 60 seconds is usually enough to prevent this. Also, pour the liquid over the ice rather than dropping the ice into a full glass.

What is the best way to store clear ice balls?

The best way is in a sealed, airtight freezer bag or container. This prevents the ice from absorbing any off-flavors from other foods in your freezer. It also prevents sublimation (the ice shrinking over time). The storage bag included with the Berlinzo is ideal for this purpose.

How should I clean my clear ice ball maker?

Most should be washed by hand with warm, soapy water. While some silicone parts might be top-rack dishwasher safe, it’s always best to check the manufacturer’s instructions to prevent warping the insulated housing. For an automated machine like the ecozy, simply use the built-in self-cleaning cycle.

Can I put anything other than water in the mold?

It’s generally not recommended if you want perfectly clear ice. Freezing liquids with sugar, coffee, or fruit can interfere with the directional freezing process and will likely result in a cloudy or slushy outcome. For flavored ice, it’s better to use an infuser with your water before freezing.

My Final Verdict

After extensive testing, my top recommendation for the best clear ice ball maker for most home enthusiasts is the Berlinzo Premium Clear Ice Ball Maker. It offers the best all-around package: high capacity for entertaining, excellent ice clarity, easy-to-use molds, and the thoughtful inclusion of a storage bag. It’s the workhorse that will consistently elevate your home bar experience.

However, if your top priority is speed and convenience and you’re ready to make an investment in your craft, the ecozy 2.4″ Clear Ice Ball Maker is a phenomenal choice. It’s a game-changing appliance that delivers bar-quality ice on demand.

The Berlinzo Premium Clear Ice Ball Maker is perfect for you if…
* You frequently host guests or want to stock up on clear ice.
* You value having a large batch of 8 spheres ready at once.
* You appreciate thoughtful accessories like an included storage bag.
* You have adequate freezer space for a larger unit.
* You want the best balance of performance and value in a manual mold.

It’s not ideal for…
* Those with very limited freezer space.
* Someone who only needs one or two ice balls at a time.
* Anyone who needs clear ice in under 24 hours.

Ultimately, whether you choose the versatile Berlinzo Premium Clear Ice Ball Maker or the lightning-fast ecozy, you’ll be taking a major step up in your cocktail and whiskey game.

Last update on 2026-02-21 at 16:15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API