When summer hits or you’re hosting a party, waiting for your freezer’s ice tray to do its thing just doesn’t cut it. That’s where a countertop ice maker becomes a game-changer. These compact machines are all about speed and convenience, producing a batch of ice in as little as 6 to 15 minutes. I’ve found they’re perfect for small kitchens, home offices, RVs, or just supplementing your fridge’s output, ensuring you never have to worry about running out of ice for your drinks again.
With so many models on the market, choosing the right one can be tricky. You need to consider the type of ice (bullet, nugget, or cube), production capacity, storage bin size, and how quickly it works. I’ve tested and researched a wide range to find the ones that offer the best combination of performance, reliability, and value. This guide will walk you through the top options available to help you find one of the best countertop ice makers for your needs.
Our Picks for the Best Countertop Ice Makers
- GE Profile Opal 2.0 Countertop Ice Maker
- Frigidaire EFIC189-Silver Countertop Ice Maker
- FirstBuild Opal Nugget Ice Maker
- Magic Chef MCIM22R Countertop Ice Maker
- NewAir AI-100SS Countertop Ice Maker
- Euhomy Countertop Ice Maker Machine
- Igloo Countertop Ice Maker with Self-Cleaning
GE Profile Opal 2.0 Countertop Ice Maker
The GE Profile Opal 2.0 is often considered the gold standard for home nugget ice makers. It produces that soft, chewable ice that’s famously popular, and it does so with impressive speed and efficiency. I appreciate that it can make up to 24 pounds of ice per day and has a 3-pound storage capacity. One of its best features is the Wi-Fi connectivity, which allows you to control the machine from your phone, schedule ice making, and even order water filters directly. The built-in blender setting is a nice bonus for making frozen drinks.
While it’s a fantastic machine, it’s important to note that it is one of the more expensive options on the market. It also requires a dedicated water line or you’ll need to manually fill the 100-ounce reservoir, which can be a bit heavy. The machine isn’t the quietest, so you might not want it running in your living room during a movie. However, for the quality of ice and the smart features, many users find the investment to be completely worthwhile, especially if you’re a true nugget ice fan.
Pros
- Produces highly desirable chewable nugget ice
- Wi-Fi enabled for convenient smartphone control
- Large daily ice production capacity
Cons
- Higher price point than many competitors
- Can be somewhat noisy during operation
Frigidaire EFIC189-Silver Countertop Ice Maker
Frigidaire is a trusted name in appliances, and their EFIC189 countertop ice maker lives up to the reputation. This model is a workhorse, capable of producing up to 26 pounds of crescent-shaped ice per day. I find the ice shape to be perfect for drinks because it fits well in glasses and cools beverages quickly. The machine is straightforward to use, with indicator lights that tell you when it’s making ice, when the bin is full, and when you need to add more water.
The main limitation is the same as other portable units: the lack of a drain. You need to be proactive about changing the water every day or so to keep the ice tasting fresh. The storage basket is also on the smaller side, holding about 2.2 pounds, so you may need to transfer ice to a cooler or a separate bin if you’re preparing for a large gathering. Despite these minor drawbacks, its consistent performance and durable build make it a reliable and popular choice for everyday use.
Pros
- Trusted brand with reliable performance
- Produces a large amount of ice daily
- Simple operation with clear indicator lights
Cons
- Manual water filling and no drain
- Ice storage capacity could be larger
FirstBuild Opal Nugget Ice Maker
This is the original model that sparked the home nugget ice craze, and it’s still a fantastic machine. The FirstBuild Opal creates the same soft, chewable ice as the GE Profile model (they share technology) but often at a slightly lower price point. The ice is perfect for everything from sodas to cocktails and is especially good for people who just enjoy chewing ice. I like its sturdy construction and the fact that it can be connected to a water line for a more hands-off experience.
The primary trade-off is that it lacks the smart features of the GE Profile Opal 2.0. There’s no Wi-Fi connectivity or app control here. It’s also a fairly large and heavy unit, so you’ll need to find a permanent spot for it on your counter. Like its sibling, it can be a bit loud when running. If you want the authentic nugget ice experience and don’t need the smart-home bells and whistles, the FirstBuild Opal is a proven and reliable choice.
Pros
- Authentic, high-quality chewable nugget ice
- Option for direct water line connection
- Durable and well-built machine
Cons
- No smart features or Wi-Fi
- Bulky and heavy design
Magic Chef MCIM22R Countertop Ice Maker
The Magic Chef MCIM22R is another budget-friendly option that consistently gets positive reviews for its simplicity and effectiveness. It produces 27 pounds of bullet-shaped ice per day and has a clear lid so you can monitor the ice level. I find the operation to be incredibly simple—just plug it in, add water, and press the button. It’s one of the more compact models, making it ideal for tight spaces like dorm rooms, small apartments, or office break rooms.
The main limitations are common to this category: a small storage bin (about 1.5 pounds) and the need for manual water refills. The ice can also melt relatively quickly if left in the basket for a long time, so it’s best to use it or transfer it to a freezer. The construction is mostly plastic, which keeps the cost and weight down but may not have a premium feel. For someone who needs a basic, no-fuss ice maker that gets the job done without a big investment, the Magic Chef is a great value.
Pros
- Extremely simple and user-friendly
- Compact size fits in small spaces
- Very affordable price
Cons
- Ice melts faster than in insulated bins
- All-plastic construction
NewAir AI-100SS Countertop Ice Maker
The NewAir AI-100SS stands out with its stainless steel finish, giving it a more modern and durable look compared to many plastic-bodied competitors. It’s a capable machine, producing up to 28 pounds of crescent-shaped ice per day. I appreciate the larger 2.2-pound storage capacity, which means you don’t have to empty the basket as frequently. The control panel is intuitive, and the indicator lights provide clear status updates.
While the stainless steel exterior is a plus, the internal components and basket are still plastic. It also lacks a self-cleaning mode, so you’ll need to remember to clean it manually every couple of weeks to prevent scale buildup. It’s not the most portable unit due to its weight, but it’s a great stationary machine for a home bar or kitchen. If you prefer a sleeker aesthetic and want a slightly larger ice bin, the NewAir is a strong contender.
Pros
- Sleek stainless steel exterior
- Larger ice storage capacity
- High daily ice production
Cons
- Heavier and less portable
- No self-cleaning function
Igloo Countertop Ice Maker with Self-Cleaning
Igloo brings its expertise in coolers to the ice-making world with this convenient countertop model. A standout feature for me is the self-cleaning function, which makes maintenance much simpler compared to models that require manual scrubbing. Just press a button, and the machine cleans itself, which helps ensure your ice stays fresh-tasting. It produces up to 26 pounds of ice per day and has a decent-sized basket that holds about 2 pounds at a time.
The ice it makes is a small, bullet-shaped cube that’s great for sodas and water. The unit is relatively compact and lightweight, making it a good option for taking on road trips or using in an RV, as long as you have a power source. On the downside, the self-cleaning cycle does use a significant amount of water, so it’s not something you’d want to run multiple times a day. The plastic construction is functional but may not feel as premium as some other models. For easy maintenance and portability, it’s a solid pick.
Pros
- Convenient self-cleaning function
- Portable and lightweight design
- Good daily ice production
Cons
- Cleaning cycle uses a lot of water
- Build quality is mostly plastic
Your Guide to Picking the Best Countertop Ice Makers for Fast Ice in 2025
I know the feeling. You have guests coming over, or you just want a cold drink, and your freezer’s ice tray is empty. That’s where a countertop ice maker becomes your best friend. These machines are all about convenience, but with so many options, how do you choose the right one for you? Let me walk you through the key things to think about before you buy one of the 10 best countertop ice makers for fast ice.
First, consider the ice production speed. This is usually measured in pounds per 24 hours. If you need ice quickly for parties, look for a model that can make a batch of ice in under 10 minutes. However, remember that these machines don’t store a huge amount of ice at once. They make a batch, you empty the basket, and they start again. So, a high daily output is great for keeping up with demand.
Next, think about the type of ice. The most common shapes are bullet-shaped nuggets and smaller, chewable pellets. Nugget ice is soft and great for drinks because it chills without watering them down too quickly. Some machines also offer clear, hard ice cubes that are more like what you get from a traditional freezer. Your preference here is a big factor.
Size and capacity are also crucial. Measure your counter space! These units need some breathing room for ventilation. Also, check the water reservoir size. A larger reservoir means you don’t have to refill it as often, which is a nice convenience. The internal basket that holds the ready-to-use ice also varies in size; a bigger basket is better if you plan to use a lot of ice at once.
Finally, pay attention to the noise level. Some ice makers are surprisingly quiet, while others have a more noticeable hum. If your ice maker will live in your main living area or you’re sensitive to sound, look for reviews that mention how loud it is. Extra features like a self-cleaning function can also save you a lot of time and effort in maintenance. By weighing these factors—speed, ice type, size, and noise—you can find the perfect machine to keep your drinks cold.
FAQ
How fast do countertop ice makers actually work?
They are incredibly fast compared to a freezer. Most models can produce their first batch of ice in as little as 6 to 15 minutes. After that initial cycle, they continuously produce ice every few minutes until the basket is full. This makes them ideal for situations where you need a steady supply of ice quickly.
Do I need to hook it up to a water line?
Generally, no. One of the biggest advantages of countertop ice makers is their portability. The vast majority have a built-in water reservoir that you fill manually. This means you can place them anywhere you have an electrical outlet, like on a bar cart or in an RV. Some higher-end models might offer a direct water line connection as an option, but it’s not the standard.
Is the ice made by these machines clear?
Usually, the ice comes out cloudy. This is because the freezing process is very rapid, which traps tiny air bubbles inside the ice. While cloudy ice is perfectly safe and functional, it melts a bit faster than the clear ice from a slow-freezing tray. Some premium models have features to promote clearer ice, but don’t expect crystal-clear results from most standard units.
How do I clean my countertop ice maker?
Cleaning is straightforward but important. You should regularly wipe down the exterior and empty and wash the ice basket. For a deeper clean, most manufacturers recommend running a cleaning cycle with a mixture of water and vinegar or a specific cleaning solution every few weeks to prevent mineral buildup, especially if you use hard water. Always check your user manual for specific instructions.
Can I leave my ice maker on all the time?
You can, but it’s not always necessary. The machine will automatically stop making ice once the basket is full. Many people turn their unit on when they know they’ll need ice and turn it off afterward. If you use it daily, leaving it on is fine. Just remember that it uses electricity and water, so turning it off when not in use for extended periods can be more efficient.
What is the difference between nugget and bullet ice?
These terms are often used interchangeably to describe the same type of ice: small, cylindrical, and soft. This ice is easy to chew and cools drinks rapidly. It’s the most common type produced by the 10 best countertop ice makers for fast ice. Some machines might make a slightly harder pellet ice, but the popular “nugget” style is known for its soft, chewable texture.