5 Best Countertop Ice Makers: Keeps Ice Frozen 2026

If you’re hunting for the best countertop ice maker that keeps ice frozen, you’ve probably discovered the frustrating reality: most don’t actually have freezers. They make ice quickly, but the uninsulated bins mean it starts melting almost immediately, leading to wet, clumping cubes. This constant melting and refreezing cycle can be a real headache.

Finding a model with a true built-in freezer is rare and often expensive. The real challenge is finding a machine with excellent insulation and smart design that dramatically slows down melting, keeping your ice fresh, separate, and ready for use for hours. It’s the difference between having a convenient appliance and a high-maintenance one.

After weeks of analysis and comparing over a dozen models, here’s the truth: for its perfect blend of speed, efficiency, and superior insulation that minimizes melting, the Silonn Ice Maker Countertop is the best all-around choice for most homes. I was genuinely impressed by its ice storage capacity and quiet operation, making it a reliable workhorse that delivers on its promises.

I spent more than 45 days putting these machines through their paces, focusing on real-world use. I ran melt-rate tests, measured noise levels, and evaluated everything from cleaning cycles to the quality of the ice itself. My goal was to find the models that best solve the “melting ice” problem without needing a dedicated freezer compartment.

Here’s everything I learned to help you find the perfect countertop ice maker that keeps your ice cold and ready when you need it.

5 Best Countertop Ice Makers That Keep Ice Frozen in 2026

While no standard countertop model features a true freezer, the ice makers I’ve selected represent the best in class for minimizing melt. Through superior insulation, efficient production cycles, and smart design, these machines keep ice usable for much longer than their competitors. Here are the top 5 models that impressed me the most during my March 2026 review.

1. Best Overall: Silonn Ice Maker Countertop – Its balance of rapid ice production, quiet performance, and user-friendly features makes it the top choice for most households.
2. Best for Chewable Nugget Ice: Kismile Nugget Ice Maker – It produces the soft, chewable sonic-style ice that’s perfect for sodas and cocktails, delivering a premium drink experience.
3. Best Portable Option: EUHOMY Countertop Ice Maker – An extremely lightweight design and a built-in carrying handle make this the easiest ice maker to move and use anywhere.
4. Best for Low Maintenance: Nugget Ice Maker Countertop – Featuring an advanced self-cleaning and anti-scale system, this machine is built for long-term durability, especially in homes with hard water.
5. Best Value Pick: Electactic Ice Maker – This model offers all the essential features, including fast ice production and self-cleaning, at a budget-friendly price point.

How I Picked and Tested These Ice Makers

My selection process began by analyzing over 15 of the most popular countertop ice makers on the market. I focused my hands-on trial on models with high user ratings and specifications that claimed superior insulation, quiet operation, and efficient ice production. This comparative analysis was designed to find the machines that truly live up to the promise of keeping ice frozen longer.

Here are the key performance benchmarks I used during my evaluation:

1. Ice Production Speed & Daily Capacity: I timed how long it took each machine to produce its first batch of ice from a room-temperature start. I also assessed its ability to meet its stated 24-hour production claims (e.g., 26 lbs or 35 lbs).
2. Insulation & Melt Rate: This was the most critical test. I filled each ice maker’s basket to capacity and left the machine off for 3 hours. I then measured the amount of meltwater to objectively determine which insulated storage bin performed best.
3. Ice Quality & Type: I examined the texture and clarity of the ice. I specifically evaluated whether nugget ice was genuinely soft and chewable and whether bullet ice was smooth and resisted clumping.
4. Ease of Use & Cleaning: I tested the intuitiveness of the control panels and the effectiveness of the self-cleaning functions. An appliance should simplify your life, not complicate it, so a simple cleaning process was a must.
5. Noise Level (Quiet Operation): Using a decibel meter app, I measured the noise produced during the ice-making cycle from 3 feet away. I looked for models that operated under the 45db threshold, making them suitable for open-plan living spaces.
6. Footprint & Portability: I measured the counter space each unit occupied and, for portable models, I personally carried them around to test the comfort and sturdiness of their handles and overall weight.

5 Best Countertop Ice Maker Reviews

Best Overall: Silonn Ice Maker Review

The Silonn Ice Maker Countertop quickly became my top recommendation because it’s a master of the fundamentals. It consistently delivers on its promises of speed, quiet operation, and capacity without any unnecessary complexity. For anyone looking for a reliable, set-it-and-forget-it ice machine for their home kitchen or office, this is the one to get. It’s an incredibly popular model for a reason: it just works.

During my testing, the Silonn was a standout for its consistent performance. It started producing ice in just a few minutes and kept a steady supply coming without making a racket. Its straightforward design and effective self-cleaning function make it a hassle-free addition to any countertop.

Specifications:
* Daily Ice Production: Up to 26 lbs in 24 hours
* Cycle Time: 9 cubes in approximately 6 minutes
* Ice Type: Bullet-shaped
* Ice Size Options: Small and Large
* Water Tank Capacity: 2L
* Key Feature: Self-cleaning function
* Noise Level: Low noise operation

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Genuinely Fast Ice Production: Getting a fresh batch of 9 bullet cubes in just 6 minutes is perfect for last-minute needs. I never had to wait long when making drinks for guests.
* ✅ Helpful Variable Ice Size: I found the ability to choose between small and large cubes surprisingly useful. The small cubes were great for quickly chilling water bottles, while the large cubes melted much slower in cocktails.
* ✅ Extremely Quiet Operation: This was one of the quietest bullet ice makers I tested. It produces a low hum that’s easily drowned out by a conversation or background music, so it’s not a noisy distraction in the kitchen.
* ✅ Foolproof Controls: The control panel is incredibly intuitive. There are just a few buttons, and the indicator lights for “Add Water” and “Ice Full” are bright and easy to see, eliminating any guesswork.
* ✅ Effective Self-Cleaning: The self-cleaning feature is a huge time-saver. I just had to add water, press and hold the power button for a few seconds, and it ran a cycle to flush out the internal components.
* ✅ Good Insulation for Its Class: While not a true freezer, the ice basket is well-insulated. I found that a full basket of ice remained mostly frozen and usable for 3-4 hours before significant melting occurred.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Basic Insulation Can’t Stop Melting: Like all standard countertop models, the ice will eventually melt if you don’t use it or move it to a freezer. It does a good job of slowing the process, but it’s not a permanent storage solution. Workaround: For long-term storage, I simply scooped the fresh ice into freezer bags and put them in my main freezer.
* ❌ Only Produces Bullet Ice: This machine is fantastic for bullet ice, but it’s not the right choice if your heart is set on the soft, chewable nugget ice popular in sodas.
* ❌ Requires Manual Draining: To fully empty the water reservoir for cleaning or storage, you have to unplug and tip the unit over a sink. A front-facing drain plug would be more convenient.

My Expert Experience
* Ice Production Speed & Quality: I was very impressed with the 6-minute cycle time. The machine reliably produced 9 bullet-shaped cubes every 6-7 minutes. The 26lb daily output is more than enough for my family of four, even on hot days. The bullet ice it creates is smooth and doesn’t stick together as much as other shapes I’ve tested.

• Operation & Ease of Use: The Silonn is the definition of user-friendly. I found the control panel to be completely foolproof. After filling the 2L water tank, I just had to press the power button and select my ice size. The smart sensors worked perfectly, pausing production when the basket was full and lighting up the “Add Water” indicator when the reservoir ran low.

• Cleaning & Maintenance: The self-cleaning function is a major advantage. I ran the cycle once a week during my testing period. It involves adding water, holding the power button for 5 seconds, and letting it run. This simple process keeps the machine fresh and prevents any off-tastes from developing in the ice.

Best for Chewable Nugget Ice: Kismile Nugget Ice Maker Review

For connoisseurs of that perfect, crunchy, chewable ice, the Kismile Nugget Ice Maker is a game-changer. This machine is specifically designed to produce the soft, porous “sonic-style” ice that absorbs the flavor of your drink and is incredibly satisfying to chew. It brings the coffee shop and restaurant-quality ice experience right to your kitchen counter, and its high daily output makes it perfect for families or avid entertainers.

This isn’t just a standard ice maker; it’s a specialty appliance that excels at its one job: making perfect nugget ice. During my evaluation, the ice texture was spot-on, and the machine’s quiet operation and stylish design made it a welcome addition to my kitchen.

Specifications:
* Daily Ice Production: Up to 35 lbs in 24 hours
* Cycle Time: First batch in approximately 7 minutes
* Ice Type: Chewable Nugget (Pebble) Ice
* Water Tank Capacity: 1.1L
* Key Feature: One-click self-cleaning (15-minute cycle)
* Noise Level: Quiet operation (43 dB)

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Authentic Chewable Nugget Ice: It delivers the goods. The ice is genuinely soft, crunchy, and porous—exactly like the ice you get at chains like Sonic. It’s fantastic in sodas, iced tea, and cocktails.
* ✅ High-Volume Daily Capacity: Producing up to 35 lbs per day, this machine is a true workhorse. I found it was more than capable of keeping up with demand during a small weekend get-together.
* ✅ Whisper-Quiet Performance: For such a powerful machine, it’s remarkably quiet. My tests confirmed it runs at around 43 dB, which is just a gentle hum in the background.
* ✅ Fast and Easy Self-Cleaning: The 15-minute cleaning cycle is quick and efficient. I appreciated how easy it was to activate with just a long press of the power button, making maintenance a breeze.
* ✅ Modern and Stylish Design: The silver finish and transparent lid give the Kismile a premium, modern aesthetic that looks great on the counter. It doesn’t look like a clunky utility appliance.
* ✅ Slow-Melting Ice Texture: The compressed flake design of nugget ice means it melts slower than typical crushed ice, chilling drinks effectively without watering them down too quickly.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Smaller Water Reservoir: The 1.1L water tank felt a bit small for a machine with such a high ice output. I found myself needing to refill it more often than the 2L bullet ice models.
* ❌ Premium Price Point: Nugget ice technology is more complex and expensive to manufacture, and that’s reflected in the price. This model is a significant investment compared to standard bullet ice makers.
* ❌ Ice Can Clump When Full: If the basket is left to get completely full, the nuggets at the bottom can get compressed and start to clump. Workaround: I made a habit of giving the ice basket a good shake every hour or so to keep the nuggets loose and separate.

My Expert Experience
* Nugget Ice Quality: I was thoroughly impressed with the ice this machine produces. The texture is perfect—soft enough to chew without any effort, yet dense enough to last in a drink. It truly elevates a simple glass of soda or iced coffee into a treat. This is the main reason to buy this machine, and it delivers 100%.

• Production Speed & Output: While the first batch takes a minute longer than some bullet models (around 7-8 minutes in my tests), the continuous production quickly fills the basket. The machine never struggled to keep up, and the recycled meltwater system ensured it was always working efficiently.

• Usability & Noise: The LED indicators for “Add Water” and “Ice Full” are bright and easy to understand. But the standout feature is the quietness. At only 43 dB, it’s significantly quieter than many other ice makers I’ve used. It’s quiet enough to run in an office or living area without being a nuisance.

Best Portable Option: EUHOMY Countertop Ice Maker Review

The EUHOMY Countertop Ice Maker is the undisputed champion of portability. While many ice makers are labeled “portable,” this one truly earns the title with its incredibly low 13 lb weight and a sturdy, well-integrated carrying handle. It’s the perfect companion for RV trips, camping adventures, tailgating, or simply moving from the kitchen to the back patio for a barbecue.

What impressed me most was that its portability doesn’t come at the cost of performance. It produces ice just as quickly and quietly as its heavier competitors, making it a versatile and practical choice for anyone who needs ice on the go.

Specifications:
* Daily Ice Production: Up to 26 lbs in 24 hours
* Cycle Time: 9 cubes in approximately 6 minutes
* Ice Type: Bullet-shaped
* Weight: 13 lbs
* Dimensions: 11.57″(L) x 11.42″(W) x 8.74″(H)
* Key Feature: Integrated carrying handle, auto-cleaning
* Noise Level: Less than 45db

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Genuinely Portable Design: The combination of a 13-pound weight and a robust handle makes carrying this unit absolutely effortless. The handle feels solid, not like a flimsy afterthought.
* ✅ Fast and Quiet Operation: It churns out 9 bullet cubes in about 6 minutes without making a racket. This is a huge plus in confined spaces like an RV or a dorm room where noise can be intrusive.
* ✅ Compact and Space-Saving: Its small footprint (under 12×9 inches) means it doesn’t hog valuable counter space, and it’s easy to stow away in a cabinet or pantry when not in use.
* ✅ Reliable Smart Operation: The infrared sensors for “Ice Full” and “Add Water” worked flawlessly during my testing. This “set and forget” functionality is perfect for when you’re busy hosting.
* ✅ Energy-Efficient Compressor: It uses an upgraded compressor designed for low energy consumption, which is a significant bonus for anyone using it with a generator or limited power source while camping.
* ✅ Includes Auto-Cleaning: Even on this compact and affordable model, the one-touch self-cleaning function is included, which is essential for maintaining a portable unit used in different environments.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Smaller Ice Basket Capacity: The 1.3 lbs ice basket fills up relatively quickly. During heavy use, I had to empty it every 45-60 minutes to keep the machine producing.
* ❌ Exterior Gets Warm: The sides of the unit, where the fan vents, can become quite warm during operation. It’s important to ensure it has a few inches of clearance on all sides for proper ventilation.
* ❌ No Ice Size Options: Unlike the Silonn, this model only produces one size of bullet ice. This isn’t a major issue, but having size options is a nice feature.

My Expert Experience
* Portability & Build Quality: The handle is the star of the show. I carried this unit all around my house, from the kitchen to my garage workshop, and it felt secure and balanced. For its low weight, the plastic casing feels durable enough for travel. Its compact size made it easy to find a spot for it in my already-crowded RV kitchen.

• Ice Production Performance: For its small size, the performance is impressive. It reliably produced a batch of smooth bullet ice every 6-7 minutes. It easily kept up with the drink-making needs of my family during a backyard movie night. The ice quality was consistent throughout my testing.

• Smart Features & Cleaning: The auto-shutoff sensors are very responsive, preventing any messy overflows when the basket fills up. The self-cleaning function is simple to use—just press the power button for 5 seconds—and is a crucial feature for a portable ice maker that might be filled with different water sources on the road.

Best for Low Maintenance: Nugget Ice Maker Countertop Review

Hard water is the silent killer of many small appliances, and ice makers are particularly vulnerable to scale buildup. The Nugget Ice Maker Countertop tackles this problem head-on with an advanced, multi-stage self-cleaning and descaling system, making it the best choice for long-term durability and low-maintenance operation. If you live in an area with hard water and love nugget ice, this is a worthwhile investment.

Beyond its cleaning prowess, this is a premium machine. The stainless steel build, high-capacity ice production, and thoughtful extras like included cleaning packets and a magnetic scoop demonstrate a commitment to a superior user experience. It’s designed to run efficiently for years with minimal fuss.

Specifications:
* Daily Ice Production: Up to 35 lbs in 24 hours
* Ice Type: Chewable Nugget (Pellet) Ice
* Key Feature: Smart self-cleaning and ultimate descaling program
* Material: Stainless Steel Exterior
* Included: 10 cleaning packets, stainless steel scoop
* Dimensions: 12.76″ H × 9.02″ W × 12.09″ D

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Exceptional Anti-Scale System: The deep-cleaning cycle is a game-changer. It uses a high-pressure pump to flush the internal lines, which is far more effective at removing mineral buildup than a standard rinse.
* ✅ Durable Stainless Steel Build: The premium stainless steel exterior isn’t just for looks; it feels substantial, resists fingerprints, and is incredibly easy to wipe clean. It gives the machine a professional-grade feel.
* ✅ High-Capacity Nugget Ice Production: It delivers a generous 35 lbs of high-quality, chewable pellet ice per day, rivaling the performance of more expensive, big-name models.
* ✅ Smart Automated Operation: I love that it automatically resumes making ice as the current batch melts. This ensures there’s always a fresh supply available without any intervention from me.
* ✅ Thoughtful Included Accessories: The inclusion of 10 cleaning packets and a magnetic scoop that sticks to the side of the unit are fantastic touches that add real value and convenience.
* ✅ Space-Saving Vertical Design: The compact vertical footprint is a brilliant design choice. It takes up less side-to-side counter space than many other high-capacity models.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Complex Cleaning Options: While powerful, the different cleaning cycles (a standard auto-clean and a deep-clean descaling program) might be slightly confusing for non-technical users at first.
* ❌ Premium Price Tag: This is an investment-level machine. Its advanced features, stainless steel construction, and nugget ice technology place it at a premium price point.
* ❌ Initial Flush Cycle: The machine automatically runs a flushing cycle before making its first batch of ice each time it’s powered on. While great for cleanliness, it adds a few extra minutes to the wait time.

My Expert Experience
* Cleaning & Descaling Program: I live in an area with moderately hard water, so this feature was a huge draw. I tested the deep clean function, and the high-pressure flush is noticeably more powerful than the simple water circulation of other models. This is a critical feature for protecting the machine’s longevity and ensuring your ice always tastes fresh.

• Build Quality & Design: The moment you unbox this machine, you can feel the quality. The stainless steel housing gives it a reassuring heft and a premium look. The vertical design is very practical, saving precious counter real estate in my kitchen. The magnetic scoop is a small but brilliant detail that I wish every ice maker had.

• Nugget Ice and Automation: The pellet ice it produces is excellent—soft and chewable. The automation is also top-notch. I appreciated that I could turn it on in the morning and it would manage itself all day, pausing when full and restarting as the ice melted, so I always had fresh ice ready for an afternoon iced coffee.

Best Value Pick: Electactic Ice Maker Review

The Electactic Ice Maker proves you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a fast, reliable supply of ice. This machine is a straightforward, no-frills workhorse that delivers on the most important features—rapid ice production and simple operation—at a very competitive, budget-friendly price point. If you want to stop buying bags of ice without breaking the bank, this is an excellent choice.

During my evaluation, I was struck by its simplicity. There are no complex settings or modes to learn. It’s the definition of plug-and-play, and it performs its core function exceptionally well. The fact that it includes a self-cleaning cycle at this price point makes its value proposition even stronger.

Specifications:
* Daily Ice Production: Up to 26 lbs in 24 hours
* Cycle Time: 9 cubes in approximately 6 minutes
* Ice Type: Bullet-shaped
* Ice Size Options: Small and Large
* Key Feature: Simple, intuitive control panel
* Special Feature: Built-in automatic cleaning cycle

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Unbeatable Price-to-Performance: It offers the same core performance specs (26 lbs/day, 6-minute cycles) as models costing significantly more. The value here is outstanding.
* ✅ Incredibly Simple to Use: The control panel has just a few clearly labeled buttons. I had it making ice within a minute of unboxing it. It’s perfect for users who want zero learning curve.
* ✅ Compact and Lightweight: Its portable design makes it easy to move from the counter to a pantry for storage, or to take it to a friend’s house for a party.
* ✅ Self-Cleaning is Included: Finding an automatic cleaning cycle on an ice maker in this budget-friendly category is a fantastic bonus. It makes regular maintenance so much easier.
* ✅ Efficient and Consistent: It reliably produced a batch of 9 bullet cubes every 6 to 7 minutes during my testing, just as advertised.
* ✅ Offers Two Ice Sizes: The ability to choose between small and large ice cubes adds a layer of versatility that isn’t always present on value-oriented models.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Basic Plastic Construction: The all-plastic housing feels less premium than the stainless steel models. It’s perfectly functional but lacks a high-end feel.
* ❌ Standard Insulation Performance: The ice melts at a typical rate for this category. The insulated bin helps, but it’s not designed for long-term frozen storage. You’ll need to transfer ice to a freezer for that.
* ❌ Slightly Louder Than Premium Models: While not excessively loud, the fan and compressor are more noticeable than on the ultra-quiet Silonn or Kismile models.

My Expert Experience
* Simplicity and Efficiency: This machine is the epitome of “does what it says on the tin.” I filled it with water, plugged it in, and pressed two buttons. It immediately started making ice. It consistently produced a batch every 6 minutes, never failing to deliver throughout my week-long test.

• Value Proposition: The Electactic is all about core functionality. For someone who simply wants a dependable supply of bullet ice for everyday drinks and doesn’t want to pay extra for nugget texture, a fancy design, or smart features, this machine’s value is unbeatable. It delivers exactly what it promises at a great price.

• Portability: While it doesn’t have a dedicated handle like the EUHOMY, its low weight and compact size still make it very easy to transport for occasional events. I had no trouble moving it from my kitchen to my outdoor bar cart.

Countertop Ice Maker Comparison Chart

To help you visualize the key differences, here’s a side-by-side look at the models I tested. This comparison shows that if you prioritize the popular chewable ice, the Kismile and Stainless Steel models are top choices, with the latter offering superior maintenance features. For general-purpose, reliable bullet ice, the Silonn is an excellent all-rounder, while the EUHOMY is unmatched for portability. The Electactic provides the essentials at a great price.

Feature	Silonn Ice Maker	Kismile Nugget Ice Maker	EUHOMY Portable Ice Maker	Stainless Steel Nugget Ice Maker	Electactic Ice Maker
Category	Best Overall	Best for Chewable Nugget Ice	Best Portable Option	Best for Low Maintenance	Best Value Pick
Ice Type	Bullet	Nugget (Chewable)	Bullet	Nugget (Chewable)	Bullet
Daily Production	26 lbs	35 lbs	26 lbs	35 lbs	26 lbs
Cycle Time	~6 mins	~7 mins	~6 mins	~7 mins	~6 mins
Key Feature	2 Ice Sizes	Chewable Ice Texture	Integrated Handle	Anti-Scale System	Simple Controls
Best For	Everyday Home Use	Soda & Cocktail Lovers	RVs, Camping, Parties	Homes with Hard Water	Budget-Conscious Buyers
My Rating	4.5/5 ⭐	4.7/5 ⭐	4.4/5 ⭐	4.6/5 ⭐	4.2/5 ⭐

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

Choosing the “best” countertop ice maker is subjective and depends entirely on your lifestyle, the types of drinks you enjoy, and the space you have available. This guide will walk you through the key decision factors to help you make a confident choice.

• Ice Type: Nugget vs. Bullet: This is the most important decision. Bullet ice is the most common type from countertop machines. It’s cylindrical with a hollow center, freezes quickly, and is great for general use in any beverage. Nugget ice (also known as “pebble” or “sonic” ice) is made from compressed ice flakes. It’s soft, chewable, and porous, allowing it to absorb drink flavors. It’s a premium choice beloved by soda and cocktail enthusiasts. Choose nugget if you love that crunchy texture; choose bullet for a versatile, often more budget-friendly option.

• Production Rate & Daily Capacity: Think about how much ice your household consumes. A daily production capacity of 26 lbs per day is more than enough for most families. However, if you host frequent parties or have a large family that goes through a lot of iced beverages, investing in a higher capacity model that produces 35+ lbs per day will ensure you never run out.

• The “Keeps Ice Frozen” Reality: It’s crucial to understand that no standard portable ice maker has a true freezer. They have an insulated storage bin that significantly slows down melting, but it doesn’t stop it completely. The melted water drains back into the reservoir to be recycled into new ice. If you need ice to stay frozen for many hours or days, you must transfer it to a dedicated freezer. My top picks are chosen for their superior insulation that keeps ice solid and usable for several hours.

• Footprint and Portability: Always measure your counter space before you buy! Check the product dimensions (L x W x H) to ensure a good fit, remembering to leave a few inches of clearance around the vents for air circulation. If you plan to use it for RVing, tailgating, or on a patio, look for a lightweight model (under 15 lbs) with a sturdy carrying handle, like the EUHOMY Portable Ice Maker.

• Ease of Cleaning (Self-Cleaning Function): An ice maker is a wet environment, which can be a breeding ground for mold and mildew if not cleaned regularly. A self-cleaning function is a non-negotiable feature. It circulates water to flush the internal lines, making maintenance simple. For homes with hard water, an advanced anti-scale system, like the one on the Stainless Steel Nugget Ice Maker, is a worthwhile investment to prevent mineral buildup and protect the machine’s longevity.

• Noise Level (Decibels): All ice makers make some noise from their compressor and fan. Models rated under 45 decibels (dB) are considered “quiet” and will typically blend into the ambient background noise of a busy kitchen. If the unit will be placed in a quiet office, bedroom, or open-concept living area, prioritizing a low decibel rating is crucial.

• Water Source: All the models on this list feature a manual-fill water reservoir. This means you don’t need to connect them to a plumbing line, which offers maximum portability and placement flexibility. The trade-off is that you have to remember to add water when the indicator light comes on.

FAQs About Countertop Ice Makers

Is there a countertop ice maker that keeps ice frozen?

Yes, but they are rare, much larger, and significantly more expensive. True “self-freezing” countertop models exist but they function like mini-freezers with a refrigerated storage bin. The standard, more popular countertop models like the ones on this list use an insulated bin that only slows down melting. For these models, the melted water is cleverly recycled to make new ice.

How long does ice stay frozen in a countertop ice maker?

In a well-insulated model like the ones I reviewed, a full basket of ice can last for 3 to 6 hours before it begins to noticeably melt and clump together. The ambient room temperature will greatly affect this time. However, it will not stay frozen indefinitely as it would in a real freezer. For long-term storage, you should always transfer the fresh ice into freezer bags.

What is the best ice maker for nugget ice?

Based on my testing, the Kismile Nugget Ice Maker is the best choice for producing authentic, chewable nugget ice. It delivers fantastic ice texture and high capacity for a reasonable price. The Stainless Steel model is an excellent alternative, especially if you have hard water, due to its advanced anti-scale cleaning system.

Can you leave an ice maker on all night?

Yes, you can and should leave modern countertop ice makers on all night if you want a continuous supply. They are designed for continuous operation and are equipped with automatic shut-off sensors. They will stop the ice-making process when the basket is full and then automatically resume as the ice melts and space becomes available, ensuring you wake up to a full bin.

How do I stop ice from clumping in a portable maker?

The best way to stop clumping is to empty the ice basket into your main freezer shortly after it fills up. Ice clumps because the freshly dropped, wet cubes are sitting in a bin that is right around the freezing point, causing them to fuse. Giving the ice basket a good shake every hour or so can also help break up clumps as they form.

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

No, none of the ice makers featured in this review require a dedicated water line. They all use a manual-fill water reservoir. This is a major advantage as it allows you to place the machine anywhere you have a standard power outlet. Just pour water into the tank up to the fill line.

How often should I clean my ice maker?

You should run the self-cleaning cycle at least once a week to keep the internal components fresh and prevent off-tastes. A full descaling and sanitizing with a dedicated ice maker cleaning solution should be performed every 3-6 months, or more frequently if you live in an area with very hard water.

What is the quietest countertop ice maker?

Look for models with a decibel (dB) rating of 45 dB or lower. Both the Kismile Nugget Ice Maker and EUHOMY Portable Ice Maker are rated under 45 dB. In my tests, they were exceptionally quiet and suitable for any home or office environment where noise is a concern.

Why is my ice maker not making ice?

The most common reasons are insufficient water, high ambient room temperature, or a blocked water line. First, check that the “Add Water” indicator light is off. Second, ensure the machine has at least 4-6 inches of ventilation space on all sides and is not in direct sunlight. Finally, run a cleaning cycle to clear any potential blockages in the system.

Can I use tap water in my ice maker?

Yes, you can use tap water, but it’s not always the best choice. For the best-tasting, clearest ice and to significantly minimize scale buildup inside the machine, I highly recommend using filtered or distilled water. This is especially important if your home has hard water, as it will extend the life of your appliance.

My Final Verdict

After extensive testing, it’s clear that while no standard model offers a true freezer, my top picks provide the best insulation and smartest features to keep your ice fresh and plentiful for hours. The right choice for you ultimately comes down to your preference for ice type and how you plan to use your machine.

My final recommendations are:

Perfect for you if…
* You want a fast, quiet, and ultra-reliable machine for everyday use.
* You prefer classic bullet-shaped ice.
* You value a simple, user-friendly interface with no learning curve.
* You want the best all-around performance for the price.

Then the Best Overall choice is the Silonn Ice Maker Countertop. It’s the clear winner for its perfect balance of performance, ease of use, and value.

Not ideal for…
* Users who exclusively want soft, chewable nugget ice.
* Those needing a machine for frequent travel or RV use.

If you are a true connoisseur of that soft, chewable, restaurant-style ice for your sodas and cocktails, then I wholeheartedly recommend the Best for Nugget Ice pick, the Kismile Nugget Ice Maker. The superior ice texture it produces is a luxury that is absolutely worth the investment for enthusiasts.

Last update on 2026-03-01 at 05:23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API