When it comes to hosting the perfect party or elevating your home bar experience, one thing you can never have enough of is ice. Whether you’re mixing up cocktails, chilling sodas, or just want that satisfying crunch in your iced beverages, having a reliable countertop ice maker can be a game-changer. These compact machines are not only perfect for home use but also ideal for RVs, boats, and any space where a built-in ice maker isn’t available.
Thanks to the thorough testing by America’s Test Kitchen, we now have a clear picture of the best countertop ice makers on the market, ranging widely in price and features. Here’s everything you need to know to pick the perfect ice maker that fits your lifestyle and budget.
Types of Ice: From Bullet to Nugget
Not all ice makers are created equal, especially when it comes to the shape and texture of the ice they produce. America’s Test Kitchen tested nine countertop ice makers, and the variety of ice types was fascinating:
- Bullet Ice: Cylindrical and hollow, bullet ice is great for slow melting and looks sleek in drinks.
- Square Ice: Classic and versatile, square cubes are a staple for many beverages.
- Nugget Ice (Pellet Ice): Those tiny, chewable ice pieces you often find at bars and soda fountains that many people love for their crunch and chewability.
It’s important to understand that these countertop ice makers are not freezers. They don’t keep the ice frozen indefinitely. Instead, if the ice isn’t used, it will start to melt, and the melted water is collected and recirculated through the machine. Sensors monitor this cycle to ensure efficient ice production without waste.
Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Countertop Ice Maker
When evaluating these machines, several factors stood out as critical for the best user experience and performance:
1. Ice Quality and Separation
At its core, an ice maker’s job is to produce good-quality ice that’s easy to use. Most machines did well, but two models had issues with ice cubes sticking together instead of coming out as separate, discreet pieces. This can be frustrating when you want to quickly grab ice for drinks.
2. Ease of Use: Control Panel Simplicity
A user-friendly control panel is essential. You want to be able to operate your ice maker without fumbling through complicated buttons or confusing settings, especially during a busy party.
3. Ice Production Rate
How much ice can the machine produce per hour? This is crucial if you’re serving many guests or stocking up for an event. The highest output tested was an impressive two pounds of ice per hour, while others hovered around one and a half pounds per hour — still very respectable.
4. Size and Portability
Countertop ice makers vary widely in size and weight. Some are bulky and heavy, while others are compact and easy to move. The lightest machines weighed about 15 pounds, with some heavier models tipping the scales at 43 pounds. Portability is boosted by features like sturdy grab handles, making it easy to store the machine when not in use or transport it to different locations.
5. Cleaning and Maintenance
Cleaning can be a hassle with any kitchen appliance, but some ice makers come with automatic self-cleaning cycles. This feature was highly appreciated by testers, as it simplifies upkeep and ensures the machine stays hygienic without much effort.
Our Top Picks for Countertop Ice Makers
After testing nine different models, two stood out as favorites for different needs and budgets.
The Best All-Around: Igloo Premium Self Cleaning Countertop Ice Maker
This model strikes the perfect balance between price, performance, and ease of use. At around $153, it’s affordable and produces a sufficient amount of ice for most users. It’s reasonably light and compact, making it a great fit for home bars or occasional parties.
Key benefits include:
- A straightforward, easy-to-use control panel
- A fantastic self-cleaning cycle that keeps maintenance simple
- Good ice production rate suitable for everyday use
The Nugget Ice Lover’s Dream: GE Profile Opal 2.0 Nugget Ice Maker
If you’re an ice aficionado who simply must have that signature nugget ice you can chew, this is the machine for you. The GE Profile Opal 2.0 produces that beloved pellet ice, perfect for cocktails or sodas.
However, it comes with a higher price tag of $649 and is bulkier and heavier than other models. Despite this, it remains portable enough to move around as needed.
For those who crave nugget ice, the investment is worth it.
Production Champion: NewAir Ice Maker
This model was the top performer in ice production, churning out two pounds of ice per hour — the highest among all tested machines. It’s ideal for those who need a constant supply of ice for larger gatherings or frequent entertaining.
Why a Countertop Ice Maker is a Must-Have for Your Kitchen and Parties
Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, stocking your RV for a road trip, or just want to upgrade your home bar, a countertop ice maker provides convenience and efficiency that built-in ice makers can’t always match.
With the right machine, you get perfectly shaped ice that enhances your drinks, a machine that fits your space and lifestyle, and the ease of simple cleaning. Plus, you avoid those last-minute dashes to the store for ice bags.
So, for anyone passionate about cooking, recipes, bon appetit, and especially the art of the perfect drink, investing in a quality countertop ice maker is a smart move.
Ready to chill your drinks the right way? The Igloo Premium Self Cleaning Countertop Ice Maker is a fantastic starting point for most people, blending affordability, functionality, and ease. For the nugget ice lovers, the GE Profile Opal 2.0 is the ultimate indulgence.
Make every sip count with the perfect ice — your guests will thank you!
This article was created from the video Elevate Your Drinks With This Countertop Ice Maker | America's Test Kitchen with the help of AI.
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